The Sense of an Ending (2011) by Julian Barnes
Following Tony Webster and his clique, and then returning to Tony in retirement, ‘The Sense of an Ending’ is a brief, melancholic and deeply profound meditation on ageing and memory.
Possession (1990) by A.S. Byatt
A tale full of poetry and passion, Byatt’s modern classic weaves together the lives of two Victorian poets and the contemporary scholars studying them. Told with wit and romance, this is one book which will leave an impression on you.
Wolf Hall (2009) by Hilary Mantel
The first of two Hilary Mantel books to win the prize - in relatively quick succession - Wolf Hall is a brilliant historical thriller. Following Henry VIII and his court, this story dives into the politics of the time with compelling characters.
Bring up the Bodies (2012) by Hilary Mantel
In this sequel to Wolf Hall, we continue to follow Thomas Cromwell and the rest of the Court through this tumultuous period. Henry VIII wants to get rid of his wife, Anne Boleyn, but doing so will have huge consequences for England.
The Remains of the Day (1989) by Kazuo Ishiguro
The Remains of the Day follows a butler, Steven, who sets off to visit an old friend, hoping that their meeting may spark old feelings into something new. Steven uses the trip to revisit his past decisions, wondering whether he made the right choices and if now he might have another chance.