Outdoors & Nature - Best Rated Books

When seventeen-year-old Tom learns he has tuberculosis, he is confined to a sanatorium in an effort to stop the spread of the disease. There, he must come to terms with his own mortality and his emerging homosexuality.

The Nazarene is a historical novel by Sholem Asch set in first-century Judea. The novel tells the story of Jesus from the perspective of Judas Iscariot.

In the early 1900s, an Englishman named Philip Carey goes to Paris to study art. There he meets and falls in love with a Frenchwoman named Nora. The two must contend with the outbreak of World War I and Philip's own insecurity.

In the early 1900s, two American siblings, Ned and Faith, move to England to live with their father. The siblings fall in love with two English people, and the four must contend with the outbreak of World War I.

The novel is set in Edwardian England and chronicles the lives of three generations of women

The novel tells the story of Roger Sherman, a young man from a wealthy family who is trying to find his place in the world. Sherman is a disillusioned idealist who is critical of the shallowness and hypocrisy of the upper class.

A love story set against the backdrop of the Boxer Rebellion in China.

A novel about a woman who inherits a fortune and must choose between love and money.

Set during the American Civil War, the novel follows Scarlett O'Hara's journey through love, loss, and societal change.

"The Last Puritan" by George Santayana is a philosophical novel that explores the life of Oliver Alden. Alden grapples with his identity, beliefs, and the changing world around him. Santayana's novel delves into themes of morality, self-discovery, and the clash between tradition and modernity. The narrative offers a complex portrait of a man navigating the complexities of his existence.

A novel set in England during the 1930s, exploring themes of love, politics, and societal changes as experienced by the characters.

A historical novel set during the American Revolution, following the lives of a young couple in the Mohawk Valley.

"The Weather in the Streets" by Rosamond Lehmann is a classic novel that explores the themes of love, societal expectations, and personal identity. The story follows Olivia Curtis as she navigates the complexities of relationships and societal norms. Lehmann's evocative prose and insightful portrayal of characters contribute to the novel's enduring appeal as a classic work of literature.

"Sanfelice" by Vincent Sheean is a historical novel set during the Naples revolution of 1799. The story revolves around Eleonora de Fonseca Pimentel, a poet and revolutionary, and her involvement in the political upheaval. Sheean's novel combines elements of historical fiction, romance, and drama, providing a vivid portrayal of a tumultuous period in Italian history.

"House Divided" by Ben Ames Williams is a historical novel set during the American Civil War. The story revolves around two families, the Parkers and the Morses, and explores the impact of the war on their lives, relationships, and principles. Williams delves into themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the human cost of conflict.

"Europa" by Robert Briffault is a science fiction novel that envisions a utopian society on Jupiter's moon, Europa. The novel explores themes of social order, governance, and the potential for a harmonious existence. Briffault's speculative work delves into the possibilities of an advanced and enlightened civilization, providing readers with a vision of an alternative future.

"It Can't Happen Here" by Sinclair Lewis is a political satire that imagines the rise of a populist, authoritarian leader in the United States. The novel explores the dangers of complacency, the erosion of democracy, and the impact of political ideologies on society. Lewis's work serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to remain vigilant and engaged in protecting democratic values.

Of Time and the River is the second novel in Thomas Wolfe's autobiographical series. The novel chronicles Wolfe's life from his early days as a struggling writer in New York City to his years as a student at Harvard University.

Set during World War I, Paths of Glory is the story of a group of French soldiers who are court-martialed and executed for their alleged cowardice

Lucy Gayheart is a young, beautiful music student in Nebraska. She falls in love with a married man, and the story follows their tragic love affair.

A historical novel spanning several decades, focusing on the lumber industry and the lives of those involved in its ups and downs.

A novel that combines elements of romance and inspiration, exploring themes of love, faith, and the impact of positive actions on others.

Vein of Iron is a novel by Ellen Glasgow, published in 1935. The novel is set in the American Civil War, and is a story of love and war, of the South and the North, of slavery and freedom.

"Young Renny" by Mazo De La Roche is a historical novel and part of the Jalna series. The story follows the Whiteoak family and focuses on the character Renny, capturing the generational saga of the Whiteoaks at the family estate, Jalna. De La Roche's storytelling unfolds against the backdrop of changing times and family dynamics, creating a rich tapestry of historical fiction.

"So Red the Rose" by Stark Young is a historical novel set during the American Civil War. The story follows a Southern family as they navigate the challenges and tragedies of war, providing a vivid portrayal of the era's social and political upheavals.

A classic mystery novel featuring the detective duo Nick and Nora Charles as they investigate a murder case in a witty and stylish narrative.

A family drama novel depicting the challenges and struggles of a Midwestern farm family during the Great Depression.

Collection of short stories with gothic and fantastical themes.

Classic novel exploring the lives of the American expatriate community in France.

Family drama novel exploring Jewish identity and tradition.

A historical novel presenting the life of Roman Emperor Claudius, blending fiction and historical facts.

The epic historical novel spans continents and generations, following the life and adventures of the protagonist Anthony Adverse.

"Ann Vickers" by Sinclair Lewis is a novel that explores the life of the title character, Ann Vickers, as she navigates societal expectations and challenges related to women's roles, activism, and social reform. Lewis' novel provides a critical commentary on contemporary issues, including gender dynamics and political corruption. The narrative reflects Lewis' satirical and incisive style.

"Lamb in His Bosom" by Caroline Miller is a historical novel set in the antebellum South. The story follows Cean Carver, a woman living on a Georgia farm, as she navigates the challenges of marriage, motherhood, and societal expectations. Miller's portrayal of Southern life provides a rich and immersive narrative that captures the nuances of a bygone era.

The Forty Days of Musa Dagh is the story of a group of Armenian people who live in the village of Musa Dagh during the Armenian Genocide. They are able to hold off the Turkish soldiers for 40 days, but at the end, they must make a decision about whether to stay or go.

A novel depicting the challenges and triumphs of a family in rural Maine, exploring themes of love, resilience, and community.

The novel tells the story of Bertrand Caillet, a young man who is bitten by a werewolf and becomes one himself. Caillet must come to terms with his new identity and learn to control his urges. Meanwhile, he falls in love with a woman who is also a werewolf.

The Oppermanns is a novel by Lion Feuchtwanger, published in 1933. The novel is set in Germany in the early 20th century, and is a story of a wealthy Jewish family's fall from grace during the rise of the Nazi Party.

A novel about a man who is turned into a frog by a witch.

"Lost Horizon" by James Hilton is an adventure novel that introduces the concept of Shangri-La, a mythical utopian paradise. The story follows a group of people who discover Shangri-La in the Himalayas and experience the profound impact of its idyllic existence. Hilton's novel explores themes of escapism, utopia, and the search for meaning in a changing world.