The Guardian ranks the novels of Beryl Bainbridge, the British writer known for her black comedy, sharp domestic tragedies and unsettling "really good bad guys", from her weakest to her best works.

– 10. *Every Man for Himself* (1996) – acclaimed Titanic novel, but its fidelity to fact mutes Bainbridge's usual humour and eccentricity
– 9. *Harriet Said …* (1972) – her darkest book, exploring a teenage friendship, corrupted innocence and mortal danger
– 8. *Master Georgie* (1998) – a Crimean War-set, Booker-shortlisted novel told in shifting snapshots as characters head towards disaster
– 7. *A Quiet Life* (1976) – the most autobiographical work, drawing on her turbulent Liverpool childhood with dark humour and pathos
– 6. *Sweet William* (1975) – centres on a charming, deceitful lothario, praised as one of her most deliciously bad characters