The Greatest Books of All Time on Infidelity

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 759 '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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Genres

Infidelity

"Infidelity" as a category for books encompasses narratives that delve into the complexities and emotional turmoil associated with unfaithfulness in romantic relationships. These stories often explore the psychological and emotional impact of betrayal on individuals and couples, examining themes such as trust, guilt, forgiveness, and the consequences of deceit. The genre can span various tones and styles, from dramatic and heart-wrenching tales of broken marriages and clandestine affairs to more nuanced explorations of the reasons behind infidelity and its aftermath. Through compelling character development and intricate plotlines, books in this category aim to provide readers with a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of human relationships and the moral dilemmas that arise when fidelity is compromised.

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  1. 201. Toward The End Of Time by John Updike

    Set in post-apocalyptic 2020 America after a devastating war between the United States and China, the novel explores the life of a retired investment advisor named Ben Turnbull. As he navigates through the chaos of a collapsed society and the decay of his own aging body, Ben grapples with his relationships, particularly with his younger wife, and his own existential reflections. The narrative delves into themes of mortality, the nature of reality, and the human condition, all set against a backdrop of a world struggling to rebuild itself amidst technological and natural decline.

    The 12325th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 202. Changes by Ama Ata Aidoo

    A Love Story

    "Changes" is a novel that explores the complexities of modern African life, particularly for women, through the story of its protagonist, a young woman named Esi. After enduring an unhappy marriage, Esi decides to divorce her husband in pursuit of independence and personal fulfillment. She then enters into a polygamous marriage with a man named Ali, believing it will allow her more freedom and respect. However, as the narrative unfolds, Esi confronts the realities and challenges of her choices, including societal expectations, the intricacies of love, and the struggle for a sense of identity amidst the changing cultural landscape of contemporary Ghana. The novel delves into themes of feminism, tradition, and the evolving roles of women in society.

    The 12514th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 203. The Diaries by Alma Mahler

    1898-1902 and 1910-1911

    "The Diaries" is a personal and introspective account that offers a glimpse into the life of Alma Mahler, a prominent socialite and composer in early 20th-century Vienna. Through her diaries, Alma provides a vivid portrayal of her complex relationships, her struggles and triumphs in the artistic community, and her interactions with some of the most influential artists and intellectuals of her time. The entries reveal her inner thoughts, passions, and the challenges she faced as a woman navigating her identity and desires in a male-dominated society.

    The 12575th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  4. 204. Chaos by Constance Fay

    Engineer and space mercenary Caro Ogunyemi infiltrates a prison planet run by the ruthless Pierce family and discovers Leviathan, a super soldier controlled by a brain chip. A single touch frees him, setting off a dangerous scramble to restore his autonomy, protect Caro’s crew, and stage an escape — all while they navigate the unexpected bond forming between them.

    The 13053rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  5. 205. Swimming Home by Deborah Levy

    In "Swimming Home," a vacation in the idyllic French Riviera is disrupted when a family of British tourists encounters an enigmatic woman named Kitty Finch, who swims naked into the villa's pool. Her presence becomes a catalyst for the unraveling of relationships, as she becomes intimately involved with the family, particularly the poet father. The novel explores themes of depression, the complexities of the human psyche, and the impact of an outsider on the fragile dynamics of family life, all while maintaining a tense, poetic atmosphere that culminates in a haunting conclusion.

    The 13285th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  6. 206. The Unpossessed by Tess Slesinger

    A sharp, witty novel that follows a circle of left-leaning New York intellectuals and artists as their lofty political ideals collide with private desires, domestic entanglements, and petty rivalries; through lively dialogue and incisive observation it exposes the hypocrisies, compromises, and ultimately human vulnerabilities of a bohemian community trying to reconcile theory with everyday life in the 1930s.

    The 13360th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  7. 207. Palace of Desire by Naguib Mahfouz

    The Cairo Trilogy, Volume 2

    "Palace of Desire" is a novel set in Cairo in the 1920s, continuing the saga of the Cairene patriarch Al-Sayyid Ahmad and his family. It explores the dynamics of the family, the father's authoritarian rule, the sons' rebelliousness, and the daughters' submissiveness. The book also delves into the themes of love, lust, power, and the struggle between tradition and modernity in Egyptian society. The narrative is a blend of social realism and psychological insight, offering a vivid portrait of a society in transition.

    The 13529th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  8. 208. Spartina by John Casey

    The novel follows the life of a Rhode Island fisherman who is struggling to make ends meet and is determined to finish building his boat, Spartina. The protagonist is deeply connected to the sea and the coastal life, but is also frustrated by his poverty and the wealthy summer residents who seem to take over his town. His life becomes even more complicated when he starts an affair with a younger woman, further straining his relationship with his family. The story is a deep exploration of the protagonist's character, his struggles, and his relationship with the sea.

    The 13543rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  9. 209. Three Junes by Julia Glass

    "Three Junes" is a novel that explores the complexities of family relationships, love, and loss across three generations over the course of three Junes spanning a decade. The narrative primarily focuses on the life of a Scottish man and his two sons, one gay and living in New York, the other in a failing marriage. The novel is divided into three parts, each set in a different June and each from a different character's perspective, providing a rich and nuanced portrait of the characters' interconnected lives.

    The 13543rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  10. 210. Les Civilisés by Claude Farrère

    Été 1985 à New York : des jeunes femmes sont assassinées chez elles, et une gondole en papier mâché est retrouvée à côté de chaque corps. L’inspecteur Karlov doit élucider comment le tueur parvient à pénétrer les foyers de ses victimes avant que la ville ne sombre dans la panique et que le meurtrier ne frappe à nouveau.

    The 13600th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  11. 211. The Lovers by Alice Ferney

    "The Lovers" explores the complexities of love and the intricate dynamics of family life through the lens of a passionate affair. The novel delves into the lives of a married man and his lover, examining the consequences of their illicit relationship not only on their own emotional well-being but also on their spouses and children. Set against a backdrop that spans several decades, the narrative poignantly addresses themes of fidelity, happiness, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals caught between duty and desire, ultimately questioning whether true love can justify the upheaval it often causes.

    The 13791st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  12. 212. Don't Move by Margaret Mazzantini

    The novel tells the gripping story of Timoteo, a successful surgeon whose life unravels when his teenage daughter, Angela, is critically injured in a motorcycle accident. As Angela lies in a coma, Timoteo reflects on his past, revealing a tumultuous and passionate affair with a woman named Italia, which starkly contrasts with his seemingly perfect life. Through his introspection, Timoteo confronts his guilt, desires, and the complexities of love and betrayal, ultimately seeking redemption and understanding in the face of his daughter's uncertain fate. The narrative delves deeply into the human psyche, exploring themes of regret, forgiveness, and the profound impact of hidden truths.

    The 13818th Greatest Book of All Time
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  13. 213. Standard Deviation by Katherine Heiny

    The novel is a witty and poignant exploration of a complex marriage between an endearing couple navigating the quirks of their relationship and the challenges of raising a son with Asperger's syndrome. The husband, grappling with the eccentricities of his younger second wife and the demands of his precocious son, finds himself reflecting on his past and the starkly different personality of his first wife. The narrative delves into themes of love, family dynamics, and the unpredictable nature of life, as the characters confront infidelity, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness amidst the chaos of everyday life.

    The 13967th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  14. 214. The Maples Stories by John Updike

    "The Maples Stories" is a collection of short stories that intricately explores the complexities of marriage and relationships through the lives of Richard and Joan Maple. Over the course of several decades, the stories trace the nuances of their marriage, from the blossoming of their youthful love to the disintegration of their bond and eventual divorce. The narrative captures the shifting dynamics and emotional landscapes of the couple as they navigate the trials of raising children, infidelity, and the search for individual identity within the confines of a long-term, evolving relationship.

    The 14019th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  15. 215. Will You Please be Quiet, Please? by Raymond Carver

    This book is a collection of short stories that explore the lives of various individuals living in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The characters are often struggling with their personal lives, dealing with issues such as infidelity, alcoholism, and the mundane nature of life. The stories are written in a minimalist style, focusing on the characters' thoughts and actions rather than elaborate descriptions or metaphors.

    The 14068th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  16. 216. The Idea Of You by Robinne Lee

    The novel centers on Solène Marchand, a sophisticated 39-year-old art gallery owner and single mother, who unexpectedly finds herself entangled in a passionate romance with Hayes Campbell, a 20-year-old member of a globally famous boy band. As their relationship intensifies, Solène grapples with the complexities of their age difference, the public scrutiny, and the impact on her personal and professional life. The story delves into themes of desire, identity, and the sacrifices one makes for love, ultimately questioning the boundaries of societal norms and personal fulfillment.

    The 14092nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  17. 217. The Vortex by Noel Coward

    A Play in Three Acts

    The play is a provocative drama that delves into the lives of a high-society mother and her son, both entangled in a web of self-indulgence and addiction. The mother, a narcissistic and aging beauty, is involved in a series of shallow love affairs, while her son grapples with a spiraling drug addiction. Their dysfunctional relationship comes to a head when the son returns home from abroad, leading to a confrontation that exposes the emotional voids within their glamorous but hollow lives. The play is a critique of the hedonistic lifestyle of the British upper class in the 1920s and explores themes of family dynamics, the pursuit of youth, and the destructive nature of addiction.

    The 14154th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  18. 218. The Women by Clare Booth Luce

    The play in question is a satirical commentary on the lives of Manhattan socialites and the pettiness of their ostensibly glamorous world. Through a cast composed entirely of women, it delves into themes of friendship, betrayal, and the cutthroat social standings of its characters. The narrative centers around the protagonist's discovery of her husband's infidelity and her subsequent journey through gossip, backstabbing, and the quest for personal growth and independence amidst the high society of the 1930s. The play is a sharp critique of the superficial relationships and the power dynamics among women within the upper crust of society.

    The 14205th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  19. 219. The Confession Of A Fool by August Strindberg

    This novel is a deeply personal account of love, betrayal, and the tumultuous inner workings of its narrator's mind. Written as an autobiographical confession, it delves into the complexities of marriage, the pain of infidelity, and the struggle for understanding within the confines of societal expectations. The protagonist's introspective journey through his failed relationship exposes the raw emotions and psychological turmoil that accompany love and loss. Through his narrative, the book explores themes of gender roles, mental anguish, and the quest for self-realization amidst the ruins of a shattered love.

    The 14212th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  20. 220. Fool For Love by Sam Shepard

    A Play in Two Acts

    "Fool for Love" is a play that delves into the complex and turbulent relationship between two former lovers who find themselves holed up in a seedy motel room on the edge of the Mojave Desert. As they confront their intertwined past and the deep-seated secrets that have driven them apart, the play explores themes of obsession, identity, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion. The presence of an old man, who observes and comments on the action, adds a layer of mystery and symbolism, while the arrival of another character introduces an external perspective to the couple's intense emotional struggle. The play's raw dialogue and dramatic tension reflect the characters' desperate struggle for connection and their inability to escape the destructive patterns that bind them.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  21. 221. This Is How You Lose Her by Junot Diaz

    This book is a compelling collection of short stories that delve into the complexities of love, infidelity, and the struggles of the human heart through the lens of the immigrant experience. Centered around the life of Yunior, a young Dominican-American man, the narrative weaves through his various romantic relationships, capturing the raw emotions and consequences of his actions. Through vivid prose and poignant storytelling, the collection explores themes of masculinity, cultural identity, and the quest for belonging, offering a nuanced portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of love in its many forms.

    The 14232nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  22. 222. Europa by Tim Parks

    The novel follows Jerry Marlow, a disillusioned British academic, as he embarks on a bus trip from Milan to Strasbourg with his colleagues for a European Parliament petition. Throughout the journey, Jerry reflects on his failed marriage, his passionate but tumultuous affair with a colleague named Monica, and his general sense of existential despair. As the bus moves through the night, Jerry's internal monologue reveals his deep-seated anxieties and disillusionments, painting a vivid picture of a man grappling with his personal and professional crises against the backdrop of a changing Europe.

    The 14331st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  23. 223. 28 Summers by Elin Hilderbrand

    The novel revolves around the enduring, secretive romance between Mallory Blessing and Jake McCloud, who meet during a Labor Day weekend and decide to continue their affair every summer for the next 28 years. Despite their deep connection, they lead separate lives, with Mallory living on Nantucket and Jake married to a rising political star. The story explores themes of love, loyalty, and the complexities of relationships, as their annual rendezvous becomes a cherished tradition that profoundly impacts their lives and those around them.

    The 14402nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  24. 224. The Hearts and Lives of Men by Fay Weldon

    The Hearts and Lives of Men is a satirical novel that follows the story of a couple, their love, separation, and eventual reunion. The couple's daughter, who is kidnapped as part of an art scam, serves as the catalyst for their reconciliation. The narrative is filled with twists and turns, exploring themes of love, betrayal, art, and the complexities of human relationships. It offers a humorous and biting commentary on the art world, social class, and gender roles.

    The 14457th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  25. 225. The Early Stories by John Updike

    "The Early Stories" is a compilation of short stories that provide a vivid depiction of post-war America. The narratives cover a wide range of topics, including love, marriage, death, and faith, all told through the experiences of the ordinary middle-class citizen. The stories are praised for their insightful exploration of human nature and the complexities of everyday life.

    The 14492nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon

Reading Statistics

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