The Greatest Books of All Time on Obsession
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.
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 RecommendationsGenres
"Obsession" as a category for books delves into the intense, often all-consuming fixations that drive characters to extraordinary lengths, shaping their actions and decisions in profound ways. These narratives explore the psychological depths of human desire, whether it be for love, power, revenge, or an unattainable ideal. The protagonists in these stories are frequently portrayed as being consumed by their passions, leading to dramatic and sometimes destructive consequences. Through gripping plots and complex character studies, books in the "Obsession" genre offer readers a compelling look at the darker sides of human nature and the relentless pursuit of one's deepest yearnings.
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.
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.
DownloadTo 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-
151. Doctor Pasavento by Enrique Vila-Matas
A Journey to the End of the World
The novel delves into the existential crisis of a writer who grapples with the desire to disappear from the public eye and the literary world. As he embarks on a journey across Europe, he encounters various literary and historical figures, reflecting on themes of identity, anonymity, and the nature of writing itself. The narrative blurs the lines between reality and fiction, creating a labyrinthine exploration of the self and the elusive quest for meaning in a world saturated with information and noise.
The 10219th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
152. The Truth About The Harry Quebert Affair by Joël Dicker
The novel revolves around a young writer, Marcus Goldman, who is struggling with writer's block and seeks help from his mentor, Harry Quebert, a renowned author. When Harry is suddenly implicated in the decades-old murder of a fifteen-year-old girl named Nola Kellergan, Marcus sets out to clear his mentor's name. As he delves deeper into the mystery, Marcus uncovers a web of secrets, lies, and hidden truths that challenge his perceptions of love, friendship, and the nature of truth itself. The story is a gripping exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the dark undercurrents that can lie beneath seemingly idyllic surfaces.
The 10489th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
153. Father Of Frankenstein by Christopher Bram
Set in the 1950s, this novel delves into the tumultuous life of James Whale, the once-celebrated director of classic horror films like "Frankenstein" and "Bride of Frankenstein." As Whale grapples with the fading glory of his Hollywood career, he is haunted by memories of his past, including the traumas of World War I and the struggles of living as a gay man in a repressive era. The story unfolds through Whale's interactions with his new gardener, Clayton Boone, leading to an unexpected friendship that challenges societal norms and explores themes of identity, memory, and the haunting specters of one's past.
The 10515th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
154. Spanking The Maid by Robert Coover
The book is a surreal and repetitive narrative that delves into the complex power dynamics between a maid and her employer. Each day, the maid attempts to perform her duties perfectly, cleaning her employer's house, but invariably fails, leading to her being spanked for her transgressions. The story unfolds in a cyclical pattern, exploring themes of obsession, ritual, dominance, and submission. The interactions between the characters are charged with psychological tension, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy, as the reader is drawn into the strange, dream-like world of the maid's never-ending struggle for perfection and the employer's insatiable need for control.
The 10745th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
155. That Time Of Year by Marie NDiaye
"That Time of Year" delves into the unsettling experience of a Parisian teacher who, while vacationing with his family in a rural village, finds himself trapped when his wife and child mysteriously disappear. As he searches for them, the protagonist encounters the village's eerie customs and secretive inhabitants, who seem to be hiding a chilling truth. The novel explores themes of alienation, identity, and the haunting nature of memory, all set against a backdrop of creeping dread and psychological suspense.
The 10963rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
156. A Sight for Sore Eyes by Ruth Rendell
"A Sight for Sore Eyes" is a psychological thriller that intertwines the lives of three characters: a beautiful, but emotionally scarred girl; a charming, but psychopathic young man; and a woman obsessed with the Victorian age. The narrative explores their complex relationships and the devastating effects of obsession, mental illness, and the desire for beauty and perfection. The story builds towards a shocking climax, where the protagonists' lives collide with deadly consequences.
The 11210th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
157. The Real Lolita by Sarah Weinman
The Kidnapping of Sally Horner and the Novel that Scandalized the World
This gripping narrative delves into the haunting true story behind the fictional tale of a young girl's abduction that inspired a literary classic. The book meticulously unravels the chilling events surrounding the 1948 kidnapping of Sally Horner, a real-life case that eerily mirrors the plot of a famous novel. Through a blend of investigative journalism and literary analysis, the story explores the intersection of fact and fiction, shedding light on the dark realities that influenced a renowned author's controversial masterpiece. It is a poignant examination of innocence lost and the enduring impact of a crime that captivated the nation.
The 11225th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
158. Shella by Andrew Vachss
In a gritty and haunting narrative, a nameless protagonist, known only as "Ghost," embarks on a relentless quest through the underbelly of America to find Shella, a woman from his past who has mysteriously vanished. As he navigates a world filled with violence, deception, and despair, Ghost's journey becomes a dark exploration of his own soul, revealing the depths of his obsession and the lengths he will go to uncover the truth. The story unfolds in a raw and unflinching manner, capturing the essence of a man driven by love, loss, and the shadows of his own existence.
The 11271st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
159. Experimental Film by Gemma Files
In this horror novel, a former film history teacher and struggling journalist discovers a mysterious early 20th-century film that may be the work of a reclusive and enigmatic female filmmaker. As she delves deeper into the history of the film and its creator, she finds herself entangled in a web of occult secrets and supernatural forces that threaten her sanity and the safety of her family. The protagonist's quest to uncover the truth behind the film leads her on a harrowing journey through the shadowy fringes of the silent movie era and into the realm of ancient folklore, where the line between reality and myth becomes dangerously blurred.
The 11286th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
160. Il Colombre by Dino Buzzati
The book is a collection of short stories that blend the ordinary with the extraordinary, creating a world where the fantastical becomes possible. The titular story revolves around a young boy who is pursued by a mythical sea creature, the Colombre, which is believed to bring doom. However, as the boy grows into a man, he learns that the creature's intentions may not be as malevolent as they seem, and the pursuit may actually be a call to embrace his destiny. The narrative is a poignant exploration of fear, destiny, and the unknown, showcasing the author's skill in weaving magical realism with human emotion.
The 11436th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
161. Felicia's Journey by William Trevor
"Felicia's Journey" is a psychological thriller about a young, pregnant Irish girl who travels to England in search of her boyfriend, only to be taken in by a middle-aged man with a dark past. As the story unfolds, the man's sinister intentions become increasingly apparent, creating a suspenseful tale of manipulation and deception. The novel explores themes of loneliness, innocence, and the capacity for evil, offering a chilling exploration of human nature.
The 11793rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
162. The Demon by Hubert Selby
The book in question is a harrowing exploration of the human psyche, delving into the life of a seemingly successful and respectable man whose inner demons drive him into a spiral of obsession and violence. Despite his outward appearance of normalcy, he is tormented by compulsions that he cannot control, leading him down a dark path that threatens to destroy both himself and those around him. The narrative is a stark and disturbing portrayal of the struggle between societal expectations and the darker aspects of human nature.
The 11849th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
163. Throat Sprockets by Tim Lucas
A Novel of Erotic Obsession
The novel explores the psychological and emotional descent of a man who becomes obsessed with a mysterious underground film that features unsettling imagery of women with throat injuries. As his fixation deepens, it begins to affect his personal relationships and his perception of reality, blurring the lines between fantasy and life. The narrative delves into themes of voyeurism, desire, and the power of media, ultimately examining how art can profoundly influence and distort one's identity and actions.
The 11869th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
164. Worsted by Garielle Lutz
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
165. Haunted by Chuck Palahniuk
A Novel of Stories
"Haunted" is a novel composed of 23 stories, all told by people who have answered an ad for a writer's retreat. The individuals are locked inside a theater for three months, with no connection to the outside world. As time goes on, they begin to starve, go mad, and resort to violence. Each character's story reveals their darkest secrets and fears, creating a chilling and disturbing narrative.
The 12376th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
166. Headlong by Michael Frayn
In the novel, a young philosopher and his wife discover what they believe to be a lost masterpiece by a famous Renaissance artist in a dilapidated country house. As the protagonist becomes increasingly obsessed with proving the painting's authenticity and securing it for himself, he plunges headlong into a series of comic and tense situations. The narrative cleverly intertwines themes of art history, morality, and human folly, all while satirizing academic pretensions and the art world's eccentricities.
The 12324th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
167. Eclipse Fever by Walter Abish
"Eclipse Fever" is a novel that delves into the complexities of language and communication, set against the backdrop of a Mexico gripped by the anticipation of a solar eclipse. The narrative follows a New York journalist as he navigates a series of enigmatic encounters and relationships, including a love affair with a Mexican poet. The book weaves a tapestry of cultural and linguistic misunderstandings, exploring the disjunctions between perception and reality, and the ways in which language both connects and isolates individuals. Through its intricate plot and stylistic experimentation, the novel offers a meditation on the nature of storytelling and the elusive quest for meaning in a world saturated with signs and symbols.
The 12383rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
168. The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb
Curtis Wilson is a classical music prodigy who has risen from inner‑city Washington, D.C., to international acclaim. When his father gets entangled with a ruthless cartel, Curtis, his father Zippy, and Larissa enter witness protection and abandon his career. With law enforcement unable to stop the threat, the family must take matters into their own hands, forcing Curtis to choose between his music and protecting the people he loves.
The 13072nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
169. The Rule Of Four by Ian Caldwell, Dustin Thomason
Set against the backdrop of Princeton University, this gripping novel follows two college seniors, Tom Sullivan and Paul Harris, as they delve into the mysteries of the Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, a cryptic Renaissance text. Their academic curiosity soon spirals into a dangerous quest as they uncover hidden secrets and face life-threatening challenges. Blending elements of historical intrigue, friendship, and the pressures of academia, the story weaves a complex tapestry of intellectual discovery and personal growth, culminating in a thrilling race against time to unlock the book's enigmatic code.
The 13337th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
170. Candyfreak by Steve Almond
A Journey through the Chocolate Underbelly of America
In this delightful memoir, the author embarks on a nostalgic journey through the world of candy, exploring the sweet treats that have shaped his life and the lives of countless others. With humor and a touch of sentimentality, he delves into the history and production of beloved confections, visiting small, independent candy factories across America. Along the way, he reflects on the cultural significance of candy and its power to evoke childhood memories, offering a heartfelt tribute to the simple joys and indulgences that candy represents.
The 13337th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
171. The Radioactive Boy Scout by Ken Silverstein
The Frightening True Story of a Whiz Kid and His Homemade Nuclear Reactor
This gripping non-fiction narrative delves into the astonishing true story of a teenage boy whose fascination with chemistry and nuclear physics led him to attempt building a nuclear reactor in his backyard. Driven by curiosity and a desire to earn a Boy Scout merit badge, he embarked on a perilous journey, collecting radioactive materials from everyday items and conducting dangerous experiments. The tale unfolds with a mix of awe and caution, highlighting the thin line between scientific ambition and hazardous obsession, ultimately leading to a dramatic intervention by authorities and a reflection on the implications of unchecked curiosity.
The 13337th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
172. Il Grande Meaulnes by Alain-Fournier
Narrated by François Seurel, it follows his friendship with the charismatic and haunted Augustin Meaulnes, who during adolescence wanders into a mysterious estate and a magical, secret celebration where he falls in love with Yvonne de Galais; obsessed with re-finding that lost world and the impossible love it promised, he embarks on a quixotic quest whose failures and sacrifices expose themes of longing, memory, and the bitter loss of youthful idealism.
The 13359th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
173. The Rocket Man by Ray Bradbury
A boy recalls his conflicted feelings toward his father, a charismatic pilot who travels to the stars for a living: the wonder and pride of his homecomings, the loneliness his long absences cause the family, and his mother’s growing resentment. The father is irresistibly drawn to space and cannot give up the dangerous, alluring work, and in the end his passion for the heavens forces him to abandon home and family and leads to a tragic final voyage that leaves the narrator to grapple with loss and the tension between love and vocation.
The 13359th Greatest Book of All Time -
174. The Spire by William Golding
The novel centers on the ambitious and obsessive Dean Jocelin, who is determined to erect a towering spire atop his cathedral despite the warnings of structural instability and the growing dissent among the townspeople and clergy. As the spire rises, so do tensions, revealing the frailties and hidden sins of those involved. Jocelin's unwavering faith and vision drive him to the brink of madness, blurring the lines between divine inspiration and human folly. The story explores themes of faith, pride, and the destructive nature of obsession, culminating in a powerful and tragic conclusion.
The 13581st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
175. Le Supplice De Phèdre by Henri Deberly
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.
DownloadTo 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