The Greatest British "Fiction, Historical fiction" Books Since 2000

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Fiction

Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

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  1. 26. A God in Ruins by Kate Atkinson

    "A God in Ruins" is a novel that tells the story of Teddy Todd, a World War II bomber pilot, and his life before, during, and after the war. The narrative alternates between different time periods, exploring Teddy's childhood, his experiences in the war, and his later life as a husband, father, and grandfather. The book delves deep into the effects of war, the passage of time, and the complexities of family relationships, offering a poignant exploration of a man's life and the historical events that shape it.

    The 7127th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. A Quiet Belief In Angels by R. J. Ellory

    This novel follows the life of Joseph Vaughan, a boy growing up in a small Georgia town during the 1930s and 1940s, who is haunted by a series of brutal murders of young girls. As the community is ravaged by fear and suspicion, Joseph makes a vow to protect its children. However, the killings continue over the years, shadowing Joseph's life even as he moves away, shaping his destiny. The narrative weaves a tale of mystery, loss, and a quest for justice, deeply exploring the themes of evil, redemption, and the enduring power of belief amidst the darkest circumstances.

    The 7145th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. The Siege by Helen Dunmore

    "The Siege" is a historical fiction novel set during the Siege of Leningrad in World War II. The story revolves around the Levin family and their struggle to survive the harsh winter and the brutal blockade imposed by the German army. The narrative explores the themes of love, hope, and endurance in the face of adversity, providing a poignant depiction of the human spirit's resilience during one of the most tragic periods in history.

    The 8107th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Achilles by Elizabeth Cook

    This lyrical novel reimagines the life of the legendary Greek hero Achilles, focusing on his deep bond with Patroclus and his fateful role in the Trojan War. The narrative delves into themes of love, fate, and the human condition, exploring Achilles' journey from his divine origins to his mortal end. The book interweaves myth with a poetic sensibility, offering a fresh perspective on an ancient tale that highlights the timeless nature of human emotions and the inescapable pull of destiny.

    The 8373rd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. The Electric Michelangelo by Sarah Hall

    "The Electric Michelangelo" is a historical fiction novel that follows the life of Cy Parks, a man from Morecambe Bay, England who becomes an apprentice in his mother's seaside hotel for consumptives. He later becomes a tattoo artist, first in his hometown and then in the bustling Coney Island, New York. The book explores themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of art as Cy navigates through the complexities of human body and spirit in the 20th century.

    The 8444th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. The North Water by Ian McGuire

    "The North Water" by Ian McGuire is a dark historical fiction novel set in the 19th century that follows the journey of a whaling ship called the Volunteer and its crew as they embark on a dangerous voyage to the Arctic. The protagonist, Patrick Sumner, a disgraced surgeon, joins the crew as they set out on the perilous journey. However, the voyage takes a disturbing turn when they encounter a psychopathic harpooner named Henry Drax, who is capable of unspeakable acts of violence. The novel explores themes of morality, survival, and the human condition in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

    The 9037th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Empire Of Sand by Tasha Suri

    "Empire of Sand" is a captivating fantasy novel set in a world inspired by Mughal India, where the protagonist, a young woman of noble descent, possesses an extraordinary magical ability tied to the dreams of the gods. Her heritage draws the attention of the empire's religious leader, who seeks to control her power for his own ends. As she is forced into a cruel bargain to use her abilities to maintain the empire's control over its people, she must navigate treacherous court politics, forbidden romance, and her own conflicted desires. With the fate of the empire and the lives of those she loves at stake, she embarks on a journey of resistance, self-discovery, and a fight for freedom against the forces that seek to use her for their own ambitions.

    The 9144th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. C by Tom McCarthy

    The novel is a sweeping historical narrative that follows the life of Serge Carrefax, a young man born at the turn of the 20th century into a family of an eccentric inventor and a deaf mother. Serge's journey takes him from his childhood spent on an English estate where his father runs a school for the deaf, through the traumas of World War I, to the heart of the emerging radio technology and the cryptic world of espionage. His experiences are marked by a fascination with signals, codes, and the transmission of information, themes that resonate throughout the book as Serge grapples with communication, connection, and the dissonances of a rapidly changing world.

    The 9346th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Labyrinth by Kate Mosse

    Set in the south of France, "Labyrinth" intertwines two compelling storylines separated by eight centuries. In the present day, a young archaeologist stumbles upon a cave and finds two skeletons and a labyrinth pattern, drawing her into a mystery that echoes back to the past. In the year 1209, a spirited young woman becomes the guardian of an ancient book believed to reveal the secrets of the Holy Grail. As both women face danger and betrayal, their tales converge, revealing a history of crusades, secrets, and a powerful relic that has shaped the region's destiny. The novel weaves historical detail with a tale of adventure and enduring love, as the past and present collide in a race to safeguard a long-hidden truth.

    The 9367th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Heartstone by CJ Sansom

    Set in the tumultuous period of Tudor England, the narrative follows hunchbacked lawyer-detective Matthew Shardlake as he embarks on a new case that leads him into the heart of a conspiracy and danger. Tasked with investigating a series of legal disputes for the Queen's cousin, Shardlake's journey takes him to Portsmouth, where the English fleet is preparing for a momentous battle against the French. Amidst the backdrop of impending war, Shardlake uncovers a series of mysteries and dark secrets that threaten not only his life but also the stability of the realm. Combining rich historical detail with suspenseful mystery, the story weaves together political intrigue, betrayal, and courage, showcasing the complexities of justice and loyalty in a time of national crisis.

    The 9529th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Something Like A House by Sid Smith

    "Something Like A House" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores the complex relationships between family members and the impact of secrets on their lives. Set in post-war Britain, the story follows a young boy named Joe who is sent to live with his estranged grandparents in a dilapidated house. As Joe uncovers the truth about his family's past, he must navigate the emotional turmoil and challenges that arise, ultimately discovering the power of forgiveness and the importance of finding one's own identity.

    The 9629th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. The Silence of the Girls by Pat Barker

    The novel is a retelling of the Trojan War from the perspective of Briseis, a queen turned slave to the legendary Achilles. It explores the brutal realities and hardships endured by women during wartime, often silenced in traditional narratives. The book delves into themes of power, survival, and the female experience in a male-dominated world, offering a fresh, feminist perspective on a classic tale.

    The 9809th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. The Impressionist by Hari Kunzru

    "The Impressionist" is a captivating novel that follows the life of a mixed-race boy named Pran Nath. Born in India during the British Raj era, Pran's fate takes a dramatic turn when he is mistaken for the son of a wealthy British aristocrat. As he navigates through various identities and encounters, Pran's journey becomes a reflection of the complexities of race, class, and colonialism. With vivid prose and a keen exploration of identity, this book offers a thought-provoking exploration of one man's quest for belonging and self-discovery in a rapidly changing world.

    The 9923rd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Our Horses In Egypt by Rosalind Belben

    "Our Horses in Egypt" is a poignant and heartwarming tale set during World War I. The story follows a young woman named Griselda who embarks on a journey to Egypt to find her beloved horses that were sent there to serve in the war. Through her encounters with various characters and her determination to reunite with her cherished animals, Griselda discovers the harsh realities of war and the enduring bond between humans and animals.

    The 10003rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. When I Lived In Modern Times by Linda Grant

    Set in 1946, "When I Lived In Modern Times" follows the story of Evelyn Sert, a young Jewish woman who leaves post-war Britain to start a new life in Palestine. Embracing the promise of a fresh start in a land of her ancestors, Evelyn becomes immersed in the vibrant and tumultuous world of Tel Aviv. As she navigates the complexities of identity, love, and political unrest, Evelyn must confront her own desires and the realities of the society she finds herself in. With vivid descriptions and compelling characters, the novel explores themes of belonging, self-discovery, and the search for home in a time of great change.

    The 10459th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. The Facts Of Life by Graham Joyce

    "The Facts of Life" is a novel that blends historical fiction with magical realism, set against the backdrop of post-World War II England. It tells the story of the Vine family, particularly focusing on Cassie, a young woman with a unique gift that sets her apart from her six sisters. The narrative explores themes of family, love, and the supernatural, as Cassie navigates the complexities of her abilities and the challenges of her time. The story weaves together the personal and the historical, examining the impact of war on individuals and society, while also delving into the mystical and the unexplained aspects of human experience.

    The 10630th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Thursbitch by Alan Garner

    The book follows two parallel narratives. The first is set in the 18th century, focusing on a packman named Jack Turner who is mysteriously found dead in the valley of Thursbitch. The second narrative is set in the present day, where a woman named Sal and her friend Ian explore the same area, finding themselves mysteriously drawn to the mystery of Jack's death. The narratives intertwine as the boundaries between past and present blur, revealing the mystical and spiritual significance of the valley. The story explores themes of time, memory, and the enduring power of place.

    The 10822nd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. The Damned Utd by David Peace

    This novel provides a fictionalized account of the infamous 44-day period in 1974 when Brian Clough was the manager of Leeds United, a top-flight English football club. Told from Clough's perspective, the narrative alternates between his time at Leeds and his earlier successful period managing Derby County. The story explores Clough's obsessive rivalry with Don Revie, the previous manager of Leeds, and his struggles to gain the respect of the Leeds players, ultimately leading to his dismissal.

    The 10858th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. Born Yesterday by Gordon Burn

    "Born Yesterday" is a unique take on the events of 2007, using them to reflect on the state of Britain. The book examines the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, the floods that swept Britain, and the transition of power from Tony Blair to Gordon Brown. The author blends fact and fiction, creating a hybrid novel that offers a snapshot of a nation in transition and crisis, exploring themes of celebrity, power, and tragedy.

    The 10882nd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. English Passengers by Matthew Kneale

    Set in the 19th century, this novel follows a group of Englishmen who, driven by different motivations, set off on a voyage to Tasmania. The group includes a vicar who believes Tasmania is the site of the Garden of Eden, and a doctor who is interested in studying the 'inferior' races. When they arrive, they encounter the harsh realities of British colonial rule and the near-extinction of the native population. The story is told from multiple perspectives, including that of a Tasmanian man, which provides a broad view of the cultural and social complexities of the era.

    The 10934th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Twelve Bar Blues by Patrick Neate

    "Twelve Bar Blues" is a multi-generational tale that spans across time and continents, intertwining the lives of characters from New Orleans to London and Africa. The narrative explores the roots and evolution of jazz music through the life of a legendary cornet player, his granddaughter who is in search of her roots, and an Englishman obsessed with the history of jazz. The book delves deep into the themes of love, identity, race, and music, presenting a vibrant portrayal of the jazz age and its cultural impact.

    The 10939th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. The Tenderness of Wolves by Stef Penney

    Set in the 1860s, the novel tells the story of a small Canadian town rocked by the brutal murder of a French trapper. When a local woman's adopted son becomes the prime suspect, she embarks on a perilous journey through the wilderness to clear his name. Along the way, she uncovers a complex web of deceit and corruption within her community, while also coming to terms with her own past. The narrative is a gripping blend of mystery, adventure and historical fiction.

    The 11009th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. The Hand That First Held Mine by Maggie O'Farrell

    "The Hand That First Held Mine" is a captivating novel that tells two parallel stories. The first story is about a young, independent woman who moves to Soho, London in the 1950s, becomes involved in the bohemian art scene, and unexpectedly becomes a mother. The second story, set in the present day, follows a couple dealing with the chaotic and overwhelming reality of becoming first-time parents. As the novel progresses, the connection between these two narratives becomes clear, revealing a story of love, loss, and the powerful bond between a mother and her child.

    The 11029th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. Pure by Andrew Miller

    Set in pre-revolutionary France, the novel follows a young engineer who is tasked with demolishing an overflowing cemetery in Paris. As he undertakes this macabre task, he encounters a variety of characters, including a rebellious nun, a gravedigger, and a family living on the cemetery grounds. The book explores themes of mortality, the inevitability of progress, and the fragility of existence, all set against the backdrop of a society on the brink of dramatic change.

    The 11035th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. King Charles Iii by Mike Bartlett

    The play is a speculative work set in the near future, exploring the reign of Charles after he ascends to the British throne following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. It delves into the political and personal turmoil that ensues as Charles grapples with the weight of the crown and the responsibilities that come with it. The narrative follows his struggle with his own principles versus the demands of the modern British monarchy, the conflicts within his family, and the broader implications of his actions on the nation's constitutional fabric. Written in Shakespearean blank verse, the play examines themes of power, tradition, and the evolving nature of the monarchy in contemporary society.

    The 11103rd Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download