- “The Shipbuilders” by George Blake: This novel explores the lives of shipyard workers in Newcastle during the early 20th century, capturing the struggles, dreams, and camaraderie amidst the backdrop of a changing industry.
- “The Hanging Valley” by Peter Robinson: Set in the fictional town of Bradden in Northumberland, this crime novel follows Inspector Alan Banks as he investigates a murder that leads him through the rugged landscapes of the Tyne and Wear region.
- “Byker Grove” by Adele Rose: Inspired by the popular television series of the same name, this young adult novel is set in Byker, a inner-city neighbourhood of Newcastle upon Tyne, and follows the adventures and friendships of a group of teenagers.
- “The Moon in the Water” by Pamela Belle: Set against the backdrop of the Jacobite Rebellion, this historical romance novel takes place in 18th-century Newcastle and tells the story of a young woman caught between two feuding families.
- “The Hungry Tide” by Valerie Wood: This historical saga is set primarily in Sunderland and follows the lives of a shipbuilding family in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, depicting the challenges, triumphs, and love that bind them together.
- “Slammerkin” by Emma Donoghue: While not exclusively set in Tyne and Wear, this historical fiction novel features parts set in Sunderland and tells the gripping story of a young girl’s descent into prostitution and her struggle for survival in 18th-century England.
- “The Mussel Feast” by Birgit Vanderbeke: Though not geographically specific to Tyne and Wear, this novel explores themes of family, oppression, and liberation through the story of a family preparing for a special meal, set against the backdrop of an unnamed working-class community.
- “Grainger’s Men” by Valerie Laws: Set in Newcastle upon Tyne, this novel follows the interweaving stories of various characters connected to the famous neo-classical Grainger Town, exploring themes of ambition, love, and social change.
- “The Hat Stand Union” by Tish Murtha: This novel, set in the fictional mining village of Ashington, features the lives and struggles of working-class families in a post-industrial community in the 1980s, capturing the spirit of resilience and perseverance.
- “Tales of the Tyne” by Carl Lewthwaite: This collection of short stories celebrates the people and places of the Tyne and Wear region, ranging from historical accounts to contemporary tales, showcasing the rich tapestry of the area.
WANDERLIST: Ten famous novels set in Newcastle upon Tyne (and environs)
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