If you’re looking to dive into Maltese history, culture, or just enjoy a gripping story set on the little Mediterranean archipelago, this list of Malta books offers a rich collection of reads. From war sagas and memoirs to contemporary fiction and graphic novels, these titles capture the unique essence of Malta.
I’ve lived in Malta for over a year, so whether you’re after a Siege of Malta book, a comprehensive history of Malta book, or simply want to explore some of the best books Malta has inspired, here’s a curated guide for every reader.
Nomad Book Club
Malta is the Nomad Book Club pick for June 2025, where we explore a new country or region each month through books set in that place. Sign up to the newsletter to join the club and follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for updates.
- 1. The Great Siege of Malta by Bruce Ware Allen
- 2. Fortress Malta: An Island Under Siege by James Holland
- 3. Sword And Scimitar by Simon Scarrow
- 4. The Kappillan of Malta by Nicholas Monsarrat
- 5. Earthly Powers by Anthony Burgess
- 6. Jukebox Queen of Malta: A Novel by Nicholas Rinaldi
- 7. Under a Maltese Sky by Nicola Kearns
- 8. Like Bees to Honey by Caroline Smailes
- 9. A Cat Story: A Graphic Novel by Ursula Murray Husted
- 10. A Sunny Place for Shady People by Ryan Murdock
- 11. I Wish I Had Your Wings by Angus Mansfield
- 12. In Love With Malta & It’s a Long Way to Malta by Paddy Cummins
- 13. Death in Malta by Rosanne Dingli
- 14. Return to Malta: A Travelogue and a Memoir by Anne Fiorentino Pflug
- 15. The Sea of Forgotten Memories by Federico Chini
- More Malta Books
- Read Around the World Challenge
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means I earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase using a link, but at no cost to you. I’ve included Amazon links to each recommended book as well as Everand, Spotify, and Bookshop.org where available.
1. The Great Siege of Malta by Bruce Ware Allen
A definitive Siege of Malta book, this non-fiction account tells the story of the 1565 clash between the Ottoman Empire and the Knights of St. John.
Allen uses historical records to bring to life one of the most dramatic sieges in European history.
Why read it? A must-have for those seeking a detailed history of Malta book about one of the island’s most defining moments.
Read Next: Learn more about how to listen to audiobooks and read e-books with Everand in my full Everand review here.
2. Fortress Malta: An Island Under Siege by James Holland
This WWII history of Malta book covers Malta’s critical role in the Mediterranean theater.
Through personal accounts, strategic analysis, and vivid storytelling, Holland explores how the island endured relentless bombardment and held firm.
Why read it? Essential reading for WWII enthusiasts and anyone interested in Malta’s military history.
3. Sword And Scimitar by Simon Scarrow
Sword and Scimitar is a historical fiction novel set during the 1565 Siege of Malta (as you may have noticed, that siege was a pretty big deal!).
Scarrow blends fact with fiction in this fast-paced narrative about courage, faith, and warfare between Christian and Muslim forces.
Why read it? A gripping Siege of Malta book that makes history come alive through storytelling.
Read Next: Learn how to listen to audiobooks on Spotify here.
4. The Kappillan of Malta by Nicholas Monsarrat
Set during WWII, this novel follows Father Salvatore, a priest who brings hope to the people sheltering from bombings in the catacombs.
It’s a moving tale of faith, humanity, and survival.
Why read it? One of the most beloved books Malta has inspired—emotionally rich and historically grounded.
5. Earthly Powers by Anthony Burgess
This sweeping literary novel follows the life of a gay novelist intertwined with historical and religious events, some of which take place in Malta.
Though not exclusively about the island, Malta plays a pivotal role.
Why read it? A challenging and layered novel for readers looking for deeper themes and philosophical exploration.
6. Jukebox Queen of Malta: A Novel by Nicholas Rinaldi
Set in 1942 Malta, this romantic wartime story centers on a U.S. radio repairman and a mysterious woman who distributes jukeboxes to soldiers.
The novel explores love, loss, and the chaos of war.
Why read it? A unique perspective on wartime Malta through a deeply human lens.
7. Under a Maltese Sky by Nicola Kearns
A dual timeline novel connecting past and present, this book follows a WWII love story that resurfaces decades later.
It reflects Malta’s lasting impact on its visitors and residents.
Why read it? A romantic and heartfelt novel blending history and personal discovery.
8. Like Bees to Honey by Caroline Smailes
This novel follows a grieving woman who returns to Malta and begins seeing ghosts of her past and of the island’s history.
Blending magical realism with Maltese folklore, it’s a poignant tale of loss and belonging.
Why read it? A genre-bending addition to modern Malta books, rich in emotion and local culture.
9. A Cat Story: A Graphic Novel by Ursula Murray Husted
A beautifully illustrated graphic novel about two stray cats navigating the streets of Valletta.
Along the way, they explore Maltese myths and search for a better life.
Why read it? A gentle and artistic introduction to Malta’s scenery and spirit—great for all ages.
10. A Sunny Place for Shady People by Ryan Murdock
This modern non-fiction title delves into Malta’s recent transformation into a haven for money laundering, corruption, and international intrigue.
Why read it? A hard-hitting exposé for readers curious about Malta’s contemporary challenges.
11. I Wish I Had Your Wings by Angus Mansfield
A memoir of Mansfield’s experiences flying over and around Malta during WWII.
It offers personal stories, pilot perspectives, and a heartfelt tribute to the island’s role in the war.
Why read it? A rare firsthand account that adds emotional depth to Malta’s WWII history.
12. In Love With Malta & It’s a Long Way to Malta by Paddy Cummins
These memoirs and travel reflections describe the author’s adventures and life on the island.
Humorous, affectionate, and easy to read, they showcase Malta through a foreigner’s eyes.
Why read it? Light and enjoyable reads perfect for anyone falling in love with the island.
13. Death in Malta by Rosanne Dingli
An Australian writer returns to Malta seeking inspiration but becomes entangled in a mystery involving a missing boy, an old house, and long-buried secrets.
Why read it? A literary mystery that immerses readers in Malta’s atmosphere and intrigue.
14. Return to Malta: A Travelogue and a Memoir by Anne Fiorentino Pflug
A personal reflection by a woman revisiting Malta decades after leaving as a child.
The book explores her emotional reconnection with the island’s people and past.
Why read it? A touching memoir for readers interested in cultural identity and personal journeys.
15. The Sea of Forgotten Memories by Federico Chini
A mysterious novel rooted in Maltese history and legend.
As the protagonist uncovers a forgotten past, he finds himself drawn into a centuries-old secret.
Why read it? Atmospheric and suspenseful, this novel adds a mystical layer to your Malta books collection.
More Malta Books
From historical epics to modern tales, these books about Malta offer something for every reader. Whether you’re seeking a history of Malta book, an engaging Siege of Malta book, or just exploring Malta books for your next read, this list captures the island’s diverse narratives and unforgettable spirit.
Ready to get reading? Malta awaits—on the page and in your imagination.
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Read Around the World Challenge
Are you a wanderlusting bookworm? A digital nomad? An armchair traveller? Or all of the above? Me too. Whether you want to understand places at a deeper level or diversify you bookshelf, this challenge is for you.
And at a time when division and misunderstanding dominate headlines, I think reading the world offers a quiet but powerful form of resistance. It invites us to listen, to learn, and to appreciate the nuance of human experience from every corner of the globe.
Are you up for the challenge? Ok, let’s go…
Your Literary Passport: The Travel Reading Journal
I’ve also created a Travel Reading Journal, which is a companion for documenting your literary adventures.
Fantastic Books & Where to Find Them
For more of what to read where, check out my full Travel Books Guide, filled with book recommendations for different destinations, the most beautiful bookstores around the world, tips on how to get the best deals on audiobooks and e-books, as well as more literary travel.
Travel Essentials
Here are the websites and services I personally use and recommend.
FLIGHTS: The best deals can be found on Skyscanner, Google Flights and Kiwi (learn more about Kiwi travel hacking here).
TRAVEL INSURANCE: I recommend World Nomads for travel insurance because you can purchase once you’re already overseas and you can easily extend your policy. For digital nomads, I recommend and personally use Genki (learn more about Genki digital nomad health insurance here).
E-SIM: For travel in Europe, I use an e-sim with GoMobile, which is a provider based in Malta, but you need to be there to set it up.
ACCOMMODATION: I use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for apartments. For Colivings, I usually book privately, but Coliving.com is a good place to start.
THINGS TO DO: I use Viator or Get Your Guide for booking day trips, city tours and other activities, though I often check reviews on TripAdvisor too.
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