The Greatest Icelandic, British "Fiction" Books Since 2010

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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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  1. 101. Osama by Lavie Tidhar

    In this genre-blending novel, a private detective is drawn into a surreal world where pulp fiction and reality intertwine. Tasked with finding a mysterious woman who appears in countless books and films, the detective's journey takes him across a fragmented landscape, where he encounters alternate versions of historical events and figures. As he delves deeper, the boundaries between his own existence and the fictional world of a notorious terrorist begin to blur, leading to a haunting exploration of identity, myth, and the nature of truth.

    The 10742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 102. Piranesi by Susanna Clarke

    "Piranesi" by Susanna Clarke is a captivating and enigmatic novel that follows the life of the eponymous character, who inhabits a vast and mysterious house known as the House. With its labyrinthine halls and countless statues, Piranesi's existence is solitary and filled with wonder as he meticulously explores and documents the ever-shifting environment. However, his seemingly idyllic existence is disrupted when he encounters another person in the House, leading to a series of revelations that challenge his understanding of reality and his place within it. Through beautiful prose and a sense of profound mystery, "Piranesi" explores themes of identity, memory, and the power of perception.

    The 10751st Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 103. Dark Eden by Chris Beckett

    "Dark Eden" by Chris Beckett is a dystopian science fiction novel set on a planet called Eden, where a small group of humans have been stranded for generations. The descendants of the original survivors have developed their own unique culture and language, but their limited resources and lack of knowledge about the outside world create a constant struggle for survival. As the protagonist, John Redlantern, challenges the beliefs and traditions of his community, he embarks on a dangerous journey to find a way off the planet and discover the truth about their existence.

    The 10752nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 104. Dreams Before The Start Of Time by Anne Charnock

    "Dreams Before The Start Of Time" by Anne Charnock is a thought-provoking novel set in a future where reproductive technology has advanced to the point where people can choose the genetic makeup of their children. The story follows multiple characters across generations, exploring the ethical and emotional implications of these advancements on family dynamics, personal identity, and the nature of parenthood. Through its richly developed characters and intricate plot, the book raises questions about the role of technology in shaping our lives and the complex interplay between science and humanity.

    The 10809th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 105. Sea Monsters by Chloe Aridjis

    "Sea Monsters" is a captivating narrative that follows a 17-year-old girl who runs away from her comfortable life in Mexico City to join a group of Ukrainian dwarves who have escaped from a Soviet circus. Set in the 1980s, the story is a surreal exploration of freedom, self-discovery, and the blurred lines between reality and imagination. The protagonist's journey to a beach town in Oaxaca becomes an exploration of her inner world as much as the outer one, revealing her thoughts, dreams, and fears in a deeply introspective manner.

    The 10837th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 106. Or What You Will by Jo Walton

    "Or What You Will" by Jo Walton is a whimsical and philosophical novel about an aging writer named Sylvia who is facing her own mortality. As she wanders through the streets of Florence, she is accompanied by her fictional creation, a trickster named Will. Together, they explore the nature of reality, creativity, and the power of imagination. Along the way, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, including a ghost, a mermaid, and a dragon. Through their adventures, Sylvia comes to terms with her own life and legacy, while Will learns what it means to be truly alive.

    The 10858th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 107. The Jasmine Throne by Tasha Suri

    In this epic fantasy novel, a captive princess and a maidservant in possession of forbidden magic form an unlikely alliance to overthrow a tyrannical regime. Set in a world inspired by the history and epics of India, the story weaves together the fates of these two women who must navigate treacherous court politics, ancient prophecies, and their own burgeoning powers. As they fight against the oppressive structures of the empire, their bond grows deeper, challenging the societal norms and the very foundation of the empire. The novel explores themes of resistance, sacrifice, and the complex nature of power and love.

    The 10875th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 108. Submergence by J. M. Ledgard

    This novel intertwines the lives of two characters: James More, a British spy captured by jihadist fighters in Somalia, and Danielle Flinders, a biomathematician exploring the depths of the ocean. As they face their respective forms of isolation and danger, their thoughts drift to a Christmas past spent together in a French hotel, where they fell in love. Through their separate yet parallel experiences, the narrative explores themes of love, the vastness of the human spirit, and the profound connections between the ocean's depths and the most remote desert lands, highlighting the fragility and depth of human existence in the face of the natural world's immensity.

    The 10939th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 109. 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 11055th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 110. I Shall Wear Midnight by Terry Pratchett

    This novel is a captivating fantasy tale centered around Tiffany Aching, a young witch who stands on the cusp of adulthood, grappling with the weighty responsibilities of her role in her community. As she navigates the complexities of her position, she faces a malevolent entity that feeds on fear and prejudice, threatening the very fabric of her world. With the help of her loyal friends, including a clan of small, fierce blue men known as the Nac Mac Feegle, Tiffany must confront this darkness and protect those who cannot defend themselves. Set in a richly imagined world that blends humor with wisdom, the story explores themes of duty, compassion, and the importance of standing up against injustice.

    The 11055th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 111. The Dervish House by Ian McDonald

    Set in the bustling city of Istanbul in the near future, this novel weaves together the lives of six characters over the course of five days. Against a backdrop of a city that is as historically rich as it is forward-looking, these individuals' stories intersect and diverge within the confines of a sweltering summer. From an art dealer hunting for a mythical artifact to a marketing professional involved in nanotechnology, the characters navigate through personal ambitions and societal challenges. The narrative explores themes of technology, religion, and terrorism, all centered around an ancient dervish house that holds the key to their interconnected fates. Through its vivid portrayal of a city caught between tradition and modernity, the book offers a compelling glimpse into the future of humanity.

    The 11055th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 112. The Ritual by Adam Nevill

    This novel is a gripping tale of four old university friends who reunite for a hiking trip in the Scandinavian wilderness, only to find themselves lost and stumbling upon an ancient evil lurking in the forest. As they delve deeper into the woods, they encounter a series of increasingly terrifying phenomena, including pagan symbols and unsettling artifacts, which suggest that they are not alone. Their journey quickly turns into a nightmare as they are hunted by a sinister presence, forcing them to confront not only the dark forces pursuing them but also the personal demons that have driven them apart over the years. This story masterfully blends elements of horror, suspense, and the supernatural, creating a chilling and unforgettable experience.

    The 11061st Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 113. The Islanders by Christopher Priest

    The narrative unfolds within the Dream Archipelago, a vast and enigmatic world comprising numerous islands, each with its own distinct culture, climate, and mysteries. Through a series of interconnected stories and vignettes, the book explores the lives of various characters, their personal journeys, and the peculiarities of the islands they inhabit. The structure of the novel, presented as a travel guide, blurs the lines between fiction and reality, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a richly detailed world that challenges their perceptions of time, space, and narrative. Through its intricate plot and evocative setting, the book delves into themes of isolation, identity, and the human desire to understand and connect with the unknown.

    The 11061st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 114. 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 11061st Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 115. Jack Glass by Adam Roberts

    This novel is a unique blend of science fiction and murder mystery, set in a future where the solar system is governed by a strict and oppressive regime. The story unfolds in three parts, each revealing a different aspect of the titular character, a notorious criminal known for his cunning and intelligence. Through a series of intricate plots and unexpected twists, the narrative explores themes of justice, power, and rebellion. The protagonist's journey is a compelling examination of the lengths to which one will go to achieve freedom and change in a society bound by rigid class distinctions and unforgiving laws.

    The 11065th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 116. Last Days by Adam Nevill

    This horror novel plunges readers into a chilling narrative centered around Kyle Freeman, a struggling filmmaker commissioned to document the activities of a notorious cult known as The Temple of the Last Days. As Kyle delves deeper into the cult's dark history, marked by gruesome rituals and the mysterious disappearance of its members, he finds himself ensnared in a terrifying web of supernatural forces. The story masterfully intertwines elements of suspense, cult dynamics, and the supernatural, leading to a harrowing exploration of fear and the unknown. The protagonist's journey is not just a quest for footage, but a descent into a nightmarish realm where the past and present collide with dire consequences.

    The 11065th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 117. Ack Ack Macaque by Gareth L. Powell

    This novel presents a unique blend of science fiction and alternate history, where a sentient macaque, who is also an ace fighter pilot, becomes embroiled in a complex plot involving virtual realities, political intrigue, and an imminent terrorist threat. Set in a world where France and Britain merged into a powerful union, the story weaves together the lives of a journalist, a rogue scientist, and the titular macaque. Together, they uncover a conspiracy that could alter the course of history and humanity's relationship with technology. The narrative is a thrilling ride, combining elements of cyberpunk with aerial combat, all while exploring themes of identity, freedom, and the nature of consciousness.

    The 11065th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 118. Cuckoo Song by Frances Hardinge

    This novel is a gripping, dark fantasy tale set in post-World War I England, where a young girl wakes up after an accident to find herself changed in inexplicable ways. As she struggles to piece together what happened to her, she discovers that she is not who she thought she was, and her family seems to be harboring sinister secrets. With the help of unlikely allies, she embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her identity and to confront the eerie, otherworldly forces that have begun to invade her world. This story masterfully blends elements of horror, mystery, and historical fiction, creating a haunting narrative about loss, identity, and the lengths we go to for love.

    The 11078th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 119. No One Gets Out Alive by Adam Nevill

    This horror novel plunges readers into a chilling narrative centered around a young woman's harrowing experience in a dilapidated house she rents in a desperate attempt to start anew. As she navigates her impoverished circumstances, she quickly realizes that the building harbors dark secrets far beyond its decaying walls. Sinister forces and inexplicable occurrences escalate, ensnaring her in a terrifying struggle for survival. The story masterfully intertwines psychological terror with supernatural elements, creating a gripping atmosphere of dread that questions the very nature of reality and the possibility of escape from a malevolent past that haunts the present.

    The 11078th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 120. Europe In Winter by Dave Hutchinson

    This novel is a thrilling continuation of a science fiction series set in a fragmented future Europe, where borders are fluid and allegiances are ever-changing. The story follows a complex web of spies, assassins, and ordinary citizens as they navigate a continent where the Union is crumbling and new polities emerge. With a blend of espionage, political intrigue, and speculative technology, the narrative delves into the heart of a Europe transformed by micro-states, secretive factions, and the mysterious Community. As the protagonist uncovers a conspiracy that could alter the balance of power, the book explores themes of identity, sovereignty, and the nature of statehood in a rapidly changing world.

    The 11089th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 121. The Rift by Nina Allan

    The novel is a speculative fiction tale that intricately weaves the story of two sisters, Selena and Julie, after Julie mysteriously disappears and then reappears, claiming to have been on another planet. The narrative delves into themes of memory, loss, and the unbreakable bonds of family, as Selena tries to unravel the truth behind her sister's disappearance. Through a blend of science fiction and psychological drama, the book explores the impact of trauma and the nature of reality, challenging the reader to question what is truly possible in a universe that may be stranger and more complex than it first appears.

    The 11093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 122. Embers Of War by Gareth L. Powell

    This science fiction novel delves into the aftermath of a brutal interstellar war, focusing on the sentient warship Trouble Dog and her crew. The Trouble Dog, haunted by her actions during the war, has resigned from the Conglomeration fleet and joined an organization dedicated to saving human lives. When a civilian liner is attacked in a disputed galaxy, the Trouble Dog and her diverse crew of humans and AI are called to undertake a rescue mission. As they navigate political intrigue and face off against a genocidal enemy, the crew must confront their own pasts and the war's lingering scars. The novel explores themes of redemption, the moral complexities of war, and the possibility of finding peace and purpose in its aftermath.

    The 11098th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 123. The Bitter Twins by Jen Williams

    In this enthralling sequel to a celebrated fantasy series, the world is on the brink of war, and an unlikely group of heroes must band together to save it from destruction. The narrative weaves together the fates of a war-beast and her dragon rider, a pair of mismatched siblings, and a group of magical, ancient creatures with the power to change the course of history. As they face internal conflicts, betrayals, and the looming threat of an otherworldly invasion, their paths intertwine in a desperate quest to harness old magics and forge new alliances. This epic tale of courage, friendship, and the complex nature of heroism dives deep into the heart of a richly imagined fantasy world, challenging the boundaries between good and evil, and exploring the costs of survival in the face of unspeakable odds.

    The 11098th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 124. The Bone Ships by RJ Barker

    This novel is set in a vividly imagined world where two nations are locked in a perpetual war, fought on the high seas with ships made from the bones of long-extinct dragons. The story follows the crew of the Tide Child, a ship of the damned manned by criminals and social outcasts, led by a disgraced captain. When they are tasked with a seemingly impossible mission to hunt down the last of the legendary sea dragons, the crew sees it as a chance for redemption. As they embark on their perilous journey, they must navigate treacherous waters, rival ships, and their own personal demons. The narrative is rich with maritime lore, complex characters, and themes of sacrifice, survival, and redemption, making it a gripping tale of high-seas adventure and human resilience.

    The 11103rd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 125. City Of Last Chances by Adrian Tchaikovsky

    This novel is a gripping tale set in a city on the brink of collapse, where political intrigue, social unrest, and ancient secrets converge. As the city faces imminent disaster, a diverse cast of characters, including a disillusioned veteran, a determined investigator, and a scholar of the arcane, find their fates intertwined. Each must navigate the treacherous waters of power struggles and dark magic in a desperate bid to save themselves and possibly the city itself. The narrative weaves together their stories, exploring themes of survival, redemption, and the impact of past choices on the present. Through its intricate plot and richly developed world, the book offers a compelling exploration of the complexities of leadership and the cost of last chances.

    The 11125th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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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