An all-time sci fi classic – the politics giving rise to a galactic crusade play out against an incomparable setting

The monolithic forefather of high fantasy, a huge tale that picks a thread of a larger history, beautifully told in Tolkein’s stately, literary prose.

Complex and rewarding, grown up fantasy. Think Conan the Barbarian crossed with Elric of Melniboné crossed with Alien, with the tone of Apocalypse Now!

A rambling religio-philosophical study of men and their fathers, with flashes of sublime writing and insight.

This grandfather of the spy thriller is still sprightly – an engaging tone, intriguing plot and compelling setting.

Spanish Civil War tragedy told in Hemmingway’s classic sparse style.

A flawed masterpiece that scales the highest heights of fantasy, a vast cast centred on one man who stands as the balance between good and evil, creation and annihilation.

Warring aristocratic families tear their country apart, while monsters lurk on the edge of the kingdom.

Beautifully written and highly emotive political and epic fantasy.

Celtic mythscape where you’re swept on strange, magical, vividly imagined journeys through mystical hinterlands

Arthurian romance set in Dark Ages Britain, with the romance tempered by gritty battlefield action and brutal violence.

Utterly absorbing, immaculately written nautical novels set during the Napoleonic Wars. Magnificent.

Hard sci-fi written like a white-knuckle thriller. Knowledgeable, thoughtful, foul-mouthed fun.

A beautifully executed historical murder-mystery, rich and convincing in religious and philosophical detail.