This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Middlemarch

   A Study of Provincial Life

   

   Set in the fictitious English town of Middlemarch during the early 19th century, the novel explores the complex web of relationships in a close-knit society. It follows the lives of several characters, primarily Dorothea Brooke, a young woman of idealistic fervor, and Tertius Lydgate, an ambitious young doctor, who both grapple with societal expectations, personal desires, and moral dilemmas. Their stories intertwine with a rich tapestry of other townsfolk, reflecting themes of love, marriage, ambition, and reform, making a profound commentary on the human condition.

   The 28th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. The Mill on the Floss

   

   "The Mill on the Floss" is a novel that explores the lives of siblings Tom and Maggie Tulliver, who grow up at Dorlcote Mill on the River Floss. The book delves into their experiences in the rural society of the time, their complex relationship, and the choices they make in adulthood. The story is marked by themes of love, betrayal, societal expectations, and the struggle between individual desires and family obligations. The tragic ending underscores the consequences of societal norms and the struggle against them.

   The 414th Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. Daniel Deronda

   

   "Daniel Deronda" is a novel that explores the intersecting lives of its two main characters: Gwendolen Harleth, a beautiful but shallow young woman who is forced into an oppressive marriage to escape poverty, and Daniel Deronda, a compassionate and intelligent young man who, after being raised by a wealthy English gentleman, discovers his Jewish heritage. The story delves into themes of love, identity, and moral responsibility, set against the backdrop of Victorian England's societal norms and prejudices.

   The 468th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Adam Bede

   

   "Adam Bede" is a 19th-century novel set in rural England that explores the themes of love, betrayal, and moral responsibility. The story revolves around a hardworking carpenter, Adam Bede, who is in love with a vain but beautiful dairymaid, Hetty Sorrel. However, Hetty is seduced by a young, thoughtless squire, Arthur Donnithorne, which leads to her becoming pregnant. When Arthur abandons her, Hetty leaves her baby in the woods, where it dies, and she is subsequently charged with infanticide. Adam, devastated by Hetty's actions, finds solace and eventually love with a devout Methodist preacher, Dinah Morris. The novel ends with Adam and Dinah marrying, finding happiness after the tragedy.

   The 486th Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. Silas Marner

   The Weaver of Raveloe

   

   Silas Marner, a weaver, is wrongfully accused of theft and excommunicated from his community in Lantern Yard. He moves to the village of Raveloe, where he lives as a recluse, hoarding his money. After his money is stolen, he adopts a young girl named Eppie, who was abandoned near his home. Eppie's presence transforms Silas's life, and he becomes a cherished member of the community. The novel explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and the transformative power of love.

   The 643rd Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. Romola

   

   Set against the backdrop of the Italian Renaissance in 15th-century Florence, this novel weaves the tale of a young and noble woman who navigates the complexities of her life amidst political and personal turmoil. As she grapples with the moral decay of her husband and the societal expectations placed upon her, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and intellectual awakening. Through her trials and tribulations, the protagonist emerges as a figure of resilience and virtue, embodying the ideals of enlightenment and personal growth. The narrative not only explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption but also delves into the historical and cultural milieu of Renaissance Italy, offering a rich tapestry of the period's art, politics, and philosophy.

   The 2328th Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. Felix Holt, The Radical

   The Radical

   

   "Felix Holt, The Radical" is set in a small English town during the time of the Reform Act of 1832, a period of significant political and social upheaval. The novel centers on Felix Holt, an idealistic young man who returns to his hometown with the aim of making a difference in the world through political activism. He becomes involved in local elections, advocating for reform and the rights of the working class. His life becomes further complicated when he falls in love with Esther Lyon, the intelligent and refined daughter of a local dissenting minister. Their relationship, along with the turbulent political landscape, leads to a series of dramatic events that challenge their beliefs and aspirations. The novel explores themes of integrity, social responsibility, and the impact of individual actions on broader societal change.

   The 5589th Greatest Book of All Time

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8. 8. Scenes Of Clerical Life

   

   The book is a collection of three novellas that mark the author's foray into fiction, offering a penetrating look at the lives of clergymen and their communities in early 19th-century England. Through a series of vividly drawn characters and settings, the work explores themes of morality, social change, and the complexities of human relationships. The stories delve into the personal struggles and moral dilemmas faced by the clergy, as well as the impact of their actions on the small-town parishioners they serve. The narrative blends humor and pathos to provide a nuanced portrayal of provincial life, highlighting the author's deep understanding of human nature and her ability to evoke empathy for her characters' varied plights.

   The 17117th Greatest Book of All Time

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9. 9. Complete Works Of George Eliot

   

   This comprehensive collection encapsulates the profound literary contributions of a pioneering Victorian novelist, offering a rich tapestry of narratives that delve into the complexities of human nature and societal norms. Through a series of novels, essays, and poems, the works explore themes of morality, religion, and the intricacies of personal relationships, all set against the backdrop of 19th-century England. The characters are vividly drawn, often grappling with internal conflicts and societal expectations, providing readers with a deep, empathetic understanding of the human condition. The collection is a testament to the author's keen insight into the psychological and social dynamics of the time, making it a timeless exploration of universal themes.
10. 10. The Leather Boys

    

    Set in the vibrant yet gritty backdrop of 1960s London, this compelling narrative explores the complexities of youthful rebellion and the search for identity. The story follows two young men, Reggie and Pete, who bond over their shared passion for motorcycles and the freedom they represent. As their friendship deepens, they navigate the challenges of societal expectations, personal desires, and the constraints of their working-class environment. The novel delves into themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle for self-discovery, painting a poignant picture of a generation caught between tradition and change.

11. 11. The Lifted Veil

    

    Set in the 19th century, this novella delves into the life of Latimer, a sensitive and introspective young man who possesses the unsettling ability to foresee future events and read the thoughts of others. Haunted by his own premonitions, he becomes increasingly isolated, grappling with the burden of his supernatural gift. As he navigates the complexities of human relationships, Latimer's visions reveal the darker aspects of those around him, culminating in a chilling revelation about his own fate. The story explores themes of fate, free will, and the limits of human understanding, offering a poignant reflection on the nature of consciousness and the human condition.

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12. 12. Silly Novels By Lady Novelists

    

    This incisive essay critiques the superficial and formulaic nature of certain novels written by women in the 19th century, highlighting their reliance on clichéd plots, exaggerated emotions, and lack of depth. The author argues that these works often undermine the potential of female writers by conforming to societal expectations rather than challenging them. Through sharp wit and keen observation, the essay calls for more authentic and substantial contributions from women in literature, encouraging them to transcend the trivialities that diminish the literary landscape.

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13. 13. The Sad Fortunes Of Rev. Amos Barton / Brother Jacob

    Brother Jacob

    

    Set in the fictional English village of Shepperton, the narrative intricately weaves the lives of its inhabitants, focusing on the humble and well-meaning Reverend Amos Barton. Despite his earnest efforts to serve his parish, Barton faces numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and the community's harsh judgments. His personal life is marked by the deep love and eventual loss of his devoted wife, Milly, which leaves him grappling with profound grief. The story poignantly explores themes of human frailty, societal expectations, and the quiet heroism found in everyday struggles, offering a compassionate glimpse into the complexities of rural Victorian life.

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14. 14. Middlemarch/Silas Marner/Amos Barton

    

    Set in a fictional English town during the early 19th century, this novel intricately weaves together the lives of its diverse characters, exploring themes of social change, ambition, and the quest for personal fulfillment. Through the lens of marriage, politics, and religion, the narrative delves into the complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals striving for a meaningful existence. The story captures the essence of provincial life, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of its inhabitants as they navigate the challenges of love, duty, and societal expectations.

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15. 15. Four Novels

    

    A set of sweeping realist novels that probe the moral and social life of 19th‑century England, following vividly drawn provincial communities and complex central characters caught between personal longing and public duty; through careful psychological insight and sympathetic irony the stories examine conscience, marriage, class, and the clash of idealism with practical pressures, tracing how individual choices, economic forces, and social expectations produce suffering, growth, and occasional redemption.

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