The Greatest Books of All Time on Loyalty

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

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.

Follow on:

What should I read next?

Get personalized book recommendations based on your reading history and preferences. Our algorithm analyzes your favorite books and reading patterns to suggest your next great read.

Get Recommendations

Genres

Loyalty

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Date Range

Filter books by their publication year. Enter the earliest year (Start) and latest year (End) to find books published within that period. Leave either field empty to search from the beginning of time or up to the present day.

Filter

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

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

Login to Download
View: List Grid Table
Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
  1. 426. The Veiled Throne by Ken Liu

    In a world where the balance of power teeters on the edge of chaos, the story unfolds with a rich tapestry of political intrigue, cultural clashes, and personal vendettas. As the characters navigate a landscape marked by ancient traditions and emerging technologies, they are forced to confront their deepest loyalties and darkest fears. The narrative weaves together the destinies of rulers and rebels, scholars and warriors, in a gripping tale of ambition and sacrifice. Amidst the turmoil, the quest for justice and the struggle for identity drive the protagonists toward a climactic confrontation that will reshape the fate of their world.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  2. 427. The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb

    Set in a richly detailed fantasy world, this trilogy follows the life of FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard who is trained as an assassin for the kingdom of the Six Duchies. As he navigates the treacherous politics of the court, Fitz grapples with his own identity and the magical abilities he possesses, known as the Skill and the Wit. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the struggle for power, as Fitz becomes embroiled in a battle to protect his kingdom from external threats and internal betrayals, all while seeking his place in a world that often views him as an outsider.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  3. 428. Knight's Shadow by Sebastien de Castell

    In this gripping continuation of the Greatcoats series, the story follows Falcio val Mond and his companions, Kest and Brasti, as they navigate a kingdom on the brink of chaos. With their king dead and the realm teetering on the edge of civil war, the trio must confront treacherous nobles, deadly assassins, and a mysterious conspiracy that threatens to unravel everything they hold dear. As Falcio grapples with his own inner demons and the weight of his past, he must rally his fellow Greatcoats to restore justice and honor to a land plagued by corruption and betrayal. The narrative is a thrilling blend of swashbuckling adventure, political intrigue, and heartfelt camaraderie.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  4. 429. Tyrant's Throne by Sebastien de Castell

    In the thrilling conclusion to the swashbuckling series, the Greatcoats face their most formidable challenge yet as they strive to restore justice in a kingdom teetering on the brink of chaos. With the specter of a tyrant looming large and the bonds of loyalty tested, Falcio val Mond and his companions must navigate a treacherous landscape of political intrigue, betrayal, and ancient magic. As they rally allies and confront old enemies, the Greatcoats are pushed to their limits, fighting not only for the soul of their nation but for their very survival. The stakes have never been higher, and the fate of the realm hangs in the balance as they race against time to reclaim the throne and fulfill their oath.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  5. 430. The Master Puppeteer by Katherine Paterson

    Set in feudal Japan, this captivating tale follows a young boy named Jiro who apprentices at a renowned puppet theater. As he navigates the complexities of his new life, Jiro becomes entangled in a web of intrigue involving a mysterious bandit known as the "The Thief of the Night." Amidst the backdrop of poverty and social unrest, Jiro uncovers secrets that challenge his understanding of loyalty, justice, and family. Through his journey, he learns the power of courage and the importance of standing up for what is right, even when the odds are stacked against him.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  6. 431. Bloodline by Will Wight

    In a world where ancient powers and familial legacies intertwine, the protagonist embarks on a perilous journey to reclaim his family's honor and uncover the truth behind his lineage. As he navigates a landscape filled with formidable adversaries and hidden secrets, he must harness his unique abilities and forge unexpected alliances. With the weight of his ancestors' legacy on his shoulders, he faces challenges that test his resolve and redefine his understanding of power, loyalty, and destiny.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  7. 432. Reaper by Will Wight

    In a world where sacred arts and powerful clans dictate the balance of power, a young warrior finds himself entangled in a web of ancient secrets and deadly rivalries. As he navigates the treacherous path of cultivation, he must confront formidable foes and unravel the mysteries of his own lineage. With the fate of his world hanging in the balance, he embarks on a perilous journey, forging alliances and battling adversaries, all while seeking to harness the true potential of his abilities. Amidst the chaos, he discovers that the line between friend and foe is often blurred, and the true enemy may be closer than he ever imagined.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  8. 433. Skysworn by Will Wight

    In the fourth installment of the Cradle series, Lindon and his companions face new challenges as they join the Skysworn, an elite group tasked with maintaining order in the chaotic world of Cradle. As they navigate political intrigue and power struggles, Lindon continues to push his limits, striving to grow stronger and protect those he cares about. With the looming threat of the Dreadgods and the mysterious forces at play, the group must forge alliances and confront their own inner demons to survive and thrive in a world where strength is the ultimate currency.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  9. 434. Apprentice To The Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

    In a world where magic and power dictate one's destiny, a young apprentice finds herself under the tutelage of a notorious villain, challenging her perceptions of good and evil. As she navigates the complexities of her new role, she uncovers hidden truths about her mentor's past and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. With each lesson, she grapples with her own moral compass, ultimately questioning whether she can forge her own path or if she is destined to follow in the footsteps of darkness.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  10. 435. A Taste Of Gold And Iron by Ingrid D. Rowland

    Set in a richly imagined world inspired by the opulence of the Ottoman Empire, this captivating tale follows the journey of a young prince grappling with the weight of his royal duties and the intricate web of political intrigue surrounding him. As he navigates the delicate balance between loyalty and ambition, he finds himself entangled in a forbidden romance that challenges his beliefs and tests his resolve. With themes of power, love, and identity, the narrative weaves a tapestry of vibrant characters and lush settings, inviting readers into a story where the stakes are as high as the allure of gold and the taste of iron.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  11. 436. Accomplice To The Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

    In a world where heroes and villains are clearly defined, the protagonist finds themselves unexpectedly entangled in the schemes of a notorious villain. As they navigate the complexities of their new role, they grapple with moral dilemmas and the blurred lines between good and evil. With unexpected alliances and a touch of humor, the story unfolds with twists that challenge preconceived notions of right and wrong, ultimately leading to a surprising revelation about the nature of heroism and villainy.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  12. 437. Maria Stuart by Stefan Zweig

    This historical biography delves into the tumultuous life of a queen caught in the crosshairs of political intrigue and personal tragedy. It paints a vivid portrait of a woman whose charm and charisma were both her greatest assets and her ultimate downfall. The narrative explores her complex relationships with powerful figures of the time, her struggles for power, and the relentless pursuit of her downfall by her rivals. Through a blend of historical detail and psychological insight, the story captures the essence of a life marked by ambition, betrayal, and the relentless quest for survival in a world dominated by political machinations.

    The 17132nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  13. 438. The Original Adventures Of Hank The Cowdog by John R. Erickson

    A bumbling, self-important ranch dog narrates his misadventures as Head of Ranch Security on a Texas cattle ranch, investigating a chicken killing that puts him under suspicion, briefly going outlaw, and tangling with a pack of coyotes. With help from his timid sidekick, he clashes with a sly barn cat, misreads his humans’ intentions, and stumbles from danger to slapstick before blundering his way back toward loyalty and home.

    The 16849th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  14. 439. The Complete Malazan Book Of The Fallen by Steven Erikson

    A sprawling, multi-volume epic that threads the fates of soldiers, mages, gods, and ancient races across continents and ages, it blends gritty warfare with mythic stakes as empires rise and fall. Through interwoven storylines and a vast cast, it explores compassion, trauma, and the costs of power while unveiling long-buried histories and apocalyptic conflicts. From siege-torn cities to otherworldly realms, battles and betrayals reshape the world as unlikely alliances form against cosmic threats. Ultimately, it is a meditation on endurance, sacrifice, and the fragile hope that binds the living to one another.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  15. 440. Inversions by Iain Banks

    In a pre-industrial realm, two intertwined narratives follow a brilliant foreign physician advising a progressive monarch and a seasoned bodyguard serving a hardline ruler. Through courtly intrigues, conspiracies, and war, both figures subtly deploy knowledge and methods far beyond their world, unsettling entrenched powers and provoking moral quandaries about rule, reform, and responsibility. Their mirrored journeys—one toward change, the other toward stability—reveal how compassion, violence, and secrecy shape destinies, while hints of an unseen, more advanced order cast long shadows over every choice.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  16. 441. A Bird In Winter by Louise Doughty

    A woman quietly abandons her London office and vanishes, using old tradecraft to stay ahead of shadowy pursuers tied to her past in a clandestine government unit. As she flees north through remote landscapes, the narrative interweaves her present-day survival with the story of how she was recruited, trained, and compromised, revealing the personal costs of secrecy and manipulation. It’s a tense, character-driven thriller about autonomy, loyalty, and the price of a life lived in the shadows.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 442. Benedict Arnold by Randall, Willard Sterne

    Patriot and Traitor

    A concise biography that traces the rise of a gifted Continental Army officer whose bold early victories earned him fame, then charts his growing frustration with perceived slights, financial woes, and political enemies. It examines the complex motives and circumstances that led him to conspire with the British—culminating in the infamous plot to betray West Point—and balances his military achievements against his act of treason to present a nuanced portrait of a conflicted Revolutionary-era figure.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 443. Shadow Wave by Robert Muchamore

    Shadow Wave is the twelfth novel in the CHERUB series by Robert Muchamore. It was published by Hodder Children's Books (ISBN 9780340956472) on 26 August 2010, and features the final mission of the long-standing central character James Adams. A limited edition of Shadow Wave, with an orange cover (designed by Callum East), was made available exclusively at W.H.Smith. Details of Muchamore's plans to create a small three-book series called "Aramov" without James, were revealed via a secret website detailed on the back pages of all copies of the book.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  19. 444. A Horseman In The Sky by Ambrose Bierce

    A Union sentinel on a cliff during the Civil War spots a lone Confederate horseman below and, after recognizing the rider as his own father, faces an agonizing choice between familial loyalty and military duty; torn but determined to prevent discovery of his unit, he obeys orders and fires, with tragic emotional consequences.

    The 17091st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  20. 445. Under The Bright Lights by Daniel Woodrell

    Under the Bright Lights follows the life of a small-town teenage boy who becomes involved with a travelling carnival and a corrupt local world of gambling and violence; as he navigates love, loyalty, and survival in a depressed Ozark community, he must confront the consequences of choices that pull him deeper into danger and moral compromise.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  21. 446. Muscle For The Wing by Daniel Woodrell

    Detective Rene Shade must protect himself and the small Cajun town of St. Bruno when a group of ex-convicts moves in to seize control of the town’s illicit trade; the novel blends noir crime with dark humor.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 447. The Ones You Do by Daniel Woodrell

    In St. Bruno, Cajun police detective Rene Shade must protect his estranged, drunken father — a former pool hustler whose money was taken by his young wife — from a violent killer hunting the missing cash.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  23. 448. The Way Home by George P. Pelecanos

    Christopher Flynn is trying to rebuild his life: steady job, serious relationship, and a chance to prove he’s changed. When a risky temptation at work pulls him back toward old instincts, he and his closest allies must confront rising danger and moral choices as he fights to keep his hard-won stability.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  24. 449. Harry Potter And The Prince Of Slytherin by John Man

    An alternate-universe retelling in which Harry, raised in hardship, is Sorted into Slytherin. With his brother Jim rumored to be the Boy Who Lived, Harry must navigate new alliances, darker intrigues, and a very different path through Hogwarts—no spoilers.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 450. Sherwood by Meagan Spooner

    A fresh, YA reimagining of the Robin Hood legend that follows a fiercely independent young woman who rejects the limited life laid out for her and becomes a force in Sherwood’s outlaw world. Trained in archery and deception, she stages daring raids, navigates shifting loyalties and romantic tension, and confronts what leadership, identity, and justice truly demand. The novel mixes action, political intrigue, and emotional stakes as she transforms from a sheltered life into a symbol of resistance.

    The 17171st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org

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

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

Login to Download