The Greatest Irish, 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. The Lambs Of London by Peter Ackroyd

    The novel is a historical fiction that intertwines the lives of the Lamb siblings, Charles and Mary, with that of antiquarian bookseller William Ireland, set against the backdrop of early 19th-century London. The story delves into the literary world of the time, exploring themes of forgery, obsession, and the desire for fame. As Ireland presents the discovery of previously unknown works by Shakespeare, the Lambs find themselves caught up in the excitement and controversy that ensues, leading to a blend of tragedy and farce that challenges the boundaries between truth and deception in the world of literature.

    The 7061st Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. The Night Watch by Sarah Waters

    Set in 1940s London during and after World War II, this novel unfolds in reverse chronological order, revealing the lives, loves, and losses of its characters in a deeply immersive narrative. Through the experiences of a diverse group of Londoners, including an ambulance driver, a conscientious objector, and a couple navigating the complexities of a lesbian relationship in a time of pervasive social conservatism, the story delves into themes of love, betrayal, and the secrets we keep. The backdrop of the war-torn city serves as a poignant counterpoint to the personal battles and intimate connections that define the characters' lives, offering a unique perspective on the impact of war on everyday existence and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 7065th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. The Enchantress of Florence by Salman Rushdie

    This novel intertwines the history of the Mughal Empire in India and Renaissance Florence through the journey of a yellow-haired stranger who claims to be a lost relative of the Mughal Emperor, Akbar the Great. The stranger tells a tale of a hidden princess, a woman known only as the Lady Black Eyes who possesses magical powers and whose story involves a great artist and the notorious warlord, Argalia. The plot explores themes of power, love, and identity while blending history, mythology, and magic in a richly layered narrative.

    The 7087th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Arthur And George by Julian Barnes

    The novel delves into the lives of two very different men at the turn of the 20th century in England: Arthur, a celebrated writer with a penchant for spiritualism, and George, a reserved solicitor of half-Indian descent who becomes embroiled in a notorious legal case. When George is wrongfully accused and convicted of a series of crimes, Arthur becomes intrigued by his plight and is compelled to use his detective skills to unravel the truth. Their stories converge as Arthur seeks to restore George's reputation in a society rife with prejudice and injustice, exploring themes of identity, the legal system, and the complexities of human character.

    The 7151st Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. 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 7154th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. 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 7170th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. 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 8134th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. 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 8397th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. 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 8467th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. 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 9063rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Nora Webster by Colm Tóibín

    Set in a small town in Ireland in the late 1960s, the novel follows Nora Webster, a recently widowed mother of four struggling to forge a new life after the death of her beloved husband. As she navigates her grief and the complexities of raising her children alone, Nora gradually begins to rediscover her own identity beyond her roles as a wife and mother. Through her journey, she confronts societal expectations and personal setbacks, ultimately finding a renewed sense of self and independence. The narrative captures the subtle transformations of Nora's character and the intimate details of her everyday life with profound emotional depth and insight.

    The 9164th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. 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 9172nd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. The Beautiful Fall by Alicia Drake

    "The Beautiful Fall" is a captivating narrative that delves into the glamorous and competitive world of Paris fashion during the 1970s, focusing on the intense rivalry between two of the most iconic fashion designers of the era. The book provides a detailed exploration of their contrasting styles, personalities, and the cultural influences that shaped them, set against the backdrop of a vibrant and tumultuous Paris. Through meticulous research and interviews, the story also highlights the broader social and artistic changes of the time, offering a richly textured glimpse into the fashion industry's evolution and the lasting impact of these two designers on global fashion.

    The 9226th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. 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 9373rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. 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 9394th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry

    "The Secret Scripture" is a deeply moving tale of Roseanne McNulty, a centenarian who has spent most of her life in a mental institution in Ireland. As the institution is about to be demolished, her psychiatrist Dr. Grene must determine whether she's fit to be released. As he delves into her past, Roseanne reveals her life story through a secret memoir she's been writing. The narrative alternates between Roseanne's recollections and Dr. Grene's observations, revealing a tragic and complex history of Ireland's social and political changes, while also exploring themes of memory, identity, and sanity.

    The 9520th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. 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 9556th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. 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 9658th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. 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 9840th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. 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 9952nd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. This Is Happiness by Niall Williams

    Set in a remote Irish village, the novel unfolds through the eyes of a young man who, during a transformative summer, witnesses the arrival of electricity and the changes it brings to the community. As the village buzzes with anticipation and skepticism, the protagonist also encounters personal growth and the complexities of love, as he is drawn into the lives and stories of the local inhabitants. The narrative is a poignant exploration of progress and tradition, the power of memory, and the bittersweet nature of coming-of-age, all set against a backdrop of lyrical landscapes and the whimsical charm of rural Ireland.

    The 10022nd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. 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 10033rd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. 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 10488th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. The Little Red Chairs by Edna O'Brien

    "The Little Red Chairs" is a novel that explores the impact of a charismatic stranger who arrives in a small Irish village, claiming to be a healer and spiritual leader. The community, particularly a local woman named Fidelma, is drawn to him, but his mysterious past soon catches up with him, revealing his true identity as a war criminal. The revelation shatters the village and leads Fidelma on a harrowing journey across Europe, seeking redemption and healing in the aftermath of profound betrayal and violence. The novel delves into themes of evil, forgiveness, and the possibility of redemption, set against the backdrop of international conflicts and human rights abuses.

    The 10601st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. 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 10658th 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