Books matching: action and reflective moments

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  1. #1

    Remainder by Tom McCarthy
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    'Remainder' by Tom McCarthy is a novel that delves into the mind of a protagonist who receives a large settlement after an accident, leading him to obsessively stage re enactments of past memories and interactions. The book explores themes of identity, authenticity, and the blurred lines between reality and performance. The writing style is described as sharp, precise, and compelling, with a plot that unfolds in a logical yet unsettling manner, drawing the reader into the protagonist's increasingly elaborate re enactments.

    It’s not that I’m being shy. It’s just that—well, for one, I don’t even remember the event. It’s a blank: a white slate, a black hole. I have vague images, half-impressions: of being, or having been—o...

  2. #2

    Last of the Breed - Louis L'Amour's Lost Treasures by Louis L'Amour
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    "Last of the Breed" by Louis L'Amour follows the story of U.S. Air Force Major Joe Mack, a man of Sioux descent, who is shot down over Russia, captured, and imprisoned in Siberia. Escaping with minimal supplies, Mack relies on his Native American skills to survive the harsh Siberian wilderness and make his way back to America, all while being pursued by a skilled Yakut tracker. The plot is filled with action, survival challenges, and a cat-and-mouse chase across the icy frontier, showcasing Mack's resilience and resourcefulness. The writing style is straightforward and engaging, capturing the essence of a gripping adventure story set during the Cold War era.

    He had no illusions. He was a prisoner, and when they had extracted the information they knew he possessed, he would be killed. There was a cool freshness in the air like that from the sea, but he was...

  3. #3

    The White Guard by Mikhail Bulgakov
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    The White Guard by Mikhail Bulgakov is a historical novel set in Kiev during the turmoil of the Russian Revolution. The story follows the Turbin family, former Tsarists, as they navigate the chaos and uncertainty of the city overrun by various factions. The novel delves into themes of war, loyalty, betrayal, and the disintegration of society, portraying the family's struggles and experiences amidst the changing political landscape. Bulgakov's writing style captures the atmosphere of the time with vivid descriptions, immersive storytelling, and a focus on the personal lives of the characters intertwined with the larger historical events.

    Great and terrible was the year of Our Lord 1918, of the Revolution the second. Its summer abundant with warmth and sun, its winter with snow, highest in its heaven stood two stars: the shepherds' sta...

  4. #4

    All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque
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    "All Quiet on the Western Front" by Erich Maria Remarque is a powerful anti-war novel that follows the story of Paul Baumer and his classmates who enlist in the German Army during World War I. The book vividly portrays the horrors of trench warfare, the camaraderie among soldiers, and the wasted youth in a meaningless war. Through Remarque's descriptive writing style, readers are transported to the front lines of the war, experiencing the futility and brutality of battle alongside the characters.

    The novel provides a poignant depiction of the impact of war on young soldiers, exploring themes of camaraderie, the dehumanizing effects of war, and the loss of innocence. Remarque's narrative offers a unique perspective on World War I, highlighting the psychological toll of combat, the senselessness of violence, and the struggles faced by soldiers on the front lines.

    We are at rest five miles behind the front. Yesterday we were relieved, and now our bellies are full of beef and haricot beans. We are satisfied and at peace. Each man has another mess-tin full for th...

  5. #5
    The Decoy Princess
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    Book 1 in the series:Princess

    The Decoy Princess - Princess by Dawn Cook
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    The Decoy Princess by Dawn Cook is a fantasy novel that follows Princess Contessa, who is raised to believe she is the crown princess, only to discover she is a decoy for the real princess's safety. As she navigates through assassination attempts and palace takeovers, Contessa fights to protect her family and kingdom, showcasing her well-developed character and unique voice. The book weaves together elements of intrigue, deception, and magical powers, creating an engaging story recommended for fantasy readers of all types.

    The plot of The Decoy Princess revolves around Contessa's journey of self-discovery and empowerment as she learns the truth about her identity and abilities. The book introduces political undercurrents, a secretive sect called players, and a thrilling adventure where Contessa must outwit foes and uncover her true place in the kingdom, showcasing a strong female lead and a layered plot filled with twists and moral ambiguity.

    It might have been chance that kept my attention tight across the street and upon the mud-splattered gypsy van, but I doubted it. Nebulous coincidences like chance aren’t allowed sway in my life, ever...

  6. #6
    Prince in Leather
    Book 1 in the series:Hearth Motel

    Prince in Leather - Hearth Motel by Holley Trent
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    Prince in Leather by Holley Trent is a part of the Hearth Motel series in the Afotama Legacy world. The story follows Simone, a strong and independent character, who finds herself in a crazy situation involving fairies, curses, and romance. The book is praised for its steamy romance, intriguing plot filled with suspense, and the unique twist on fairy mythology. The writing style is described as engaging, with elements of fantasy and adventure seamlessly woven into the story.

    It’d been thirteen days, twenty-three hours, and fifty-five minutes since the Hearth Motel had its last guest, and owner Simone Bristol was stressed. Probably not for the same reasons a typical motel ...

  7. #7

    The Girl Who Saved Christmas - Christmas by Matt Haig
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    The Girl Who Saved Christmas is a heartwarming Christmas novel that follows the story of Amelia, a young girl with an unwavering belief in Father Christmas. When Christmas is threatened by an attack on the North Pole, Amelia's hope and optimism prove to be the key to saving the holiday. The book beautifully weaves together themes of magic, belief, and the triumph of good over evil, creating a captivating and emotionally resonant tale set in Victorian England.

    He saw happy, laughing, singing elves doing final toy tests: taking off dolls’ heads; testing spinning tops; rocking on rocking horses; speed-reading books; plucking satsumas from satsuma trees; cuddl...

    (Also, see 45 recommendations for the series Christmas )

  8. #8

    The Greek Plays by Tony Kushner, Ellen McLaughlin, Aeschylus, Euripides, Sophocles
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    'The Greek Plays' is a collection of classical Greek plays by Aeschylus, Euripides, and Sophocles, with modern English translations. is organized well, providing clear footnotes to help readers understand the context of each play. The introductions to the plays are informative and set the background and context for each play, making them accessible to both novices and experts in Greek tragedy.

    • I’ve been trying to understand why I find this play somewhat repellent, and perhaps why I haven’t approached it before. I suppose that there is something disturbing to me about what I sense is a sor...

  9. 'Buffy, The Vampire Slayer: Once More, With Feeling - The Musical Scriptbook' delves into the world of the Slayer, providing insights into Buffy's origin story, her transformation from a valley girl cheerleader to a powerful Slayer, and her battles against vampires, particularly Lothos, King of the Vampires. The novel is based on Joss Whedon's original movie script, with significant differences from the final film version. showcases witty banter, character development, and key moments that were later seen in the television series, making it a must-read for fans curious about Buffy's early days before Sunnydale.

    The writing style of the book is praised for capturing Joss Whedon's dry wit, offering a clearer explanation of the Slayer and Watcher dynamic, and providing more depth to the characters like Buffy, Pike, and Merrick. The novelization adds to the movie's plot by exploring Buffy's journey of self-discovery, her training to fight evil, and her mission to protect Los Angeles from vampires, all while incorporating elements that set the stage for the iconic television series.


  10. #10

    The A.I. Who Loved Me by Alyssa Cole
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    'The A.I. Who Loved Me' by Alyssa Cole is a sci-fi romance novella that explores the relationship between Trinity, a Black data analyst recovering from PTSD, and Li Wei, a biosynthetic human posing as the nephew of Trinity's neighbor. Set in a dark future controlled by an organization called Hive, the story delves into themes of personhood, identity, memory, and choice. The plot unfolds with a mix of mystery, humor, and pointed commentary, highlighting the interactions between the characters and the development of the romance amidst a complex background.

    The writing style of Alyssa Cole in 'The A.I. Who Loved Me' is described as zippy, gripping, and immersive, with emotional punches packed into many sentences. The novella touches on the essence of what it means to be human, similar to the exploration in 'Blade Runner,' while focusing on a beautifully written romance that captivates readers with its quirks, originality, and depth of character development.

    Trinity: (sings commercial jingle) FOUR SCOOOORE!! (laughs) That song really gets stuck in your head, huh? I have the last model, the Washington, but sometimes I like doing things the old-fashioned wa...

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