Books matching: ambition and betrayal
75 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Rage of Angels' by Sidney Sheldon follows the journey of Jennifer Parker, a young woman lawyer, as she navigates the challenges of her professional and personal life. Born and raised in Kelso, Washington, Jennifer moves to New York to kickstart her career as an Assistant District Attorney. However, a grave mistake during her first trial leads to the release of a powerful Mafia member, putting her career in jeopardy. Despite facing disbarment and struggling to find work, Jennifer eventually establishes her own office and rises to prominence in the legal world. As she takes on high-stakes cases and forms connections with influential individuals like Adam Warner, Jennifer's resilience and determination propel her towards success, albeit not without facing numerous obstacles along the way.
Sidney Sheldon's writing style in 'Rage of Angels' is characterized by intricate plot twists, vivid character development, and a fast-paced narrative. The story unfolds in various well-known locations, portraying a world of wealth and power, while delving into themes of ambition, love, and betrayal. Through Jennifer's journey, Sheldon weaves a tale of intrigue and suspense, keeping readers engaged with unexpected turns and emotional depth.
Two thousand years ago in Rome, the contest would have been staged at the Circus Neronis or the Colosseum, where voracious lions would have been stalking the victim in an arena of blood and sand, eage... - #2
Save:"Theodora" by Stella Duffy is a fictional biography that brings the reader back in time to the Byzantium era and the glory days of Constantinople. The story follows Theodora, a young woman who overcomes the restrictions of her time to pursue a life in the show business at the Hippodrome. As Theodora navigates through challenges and relationships, she eventually finds her way to fulfilling her dreams and achieving happiness, all set against the backdrop of a tumultuous historical period.
"Theodora" is described as a well-written narrative that delves into the complexities of power struggles, pagan rituals, and societal norms of the Christian era. The author, Stella Duffy, weaves together a vivid portrayal of Theodora's journey, from her early struggles to her eventual rise to prominence, offering a glimpse into a distant past filled with intrigue and historical significance.
- #3
Save:'The Paris Wife' by Paula McLain is a novel that delves into the early life of Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson, during the 1920s in Paris. The story follows their relationship, struggles, and interactions with famous writers of the time like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Gertrude Stein. Through Hadley's perspective, readers get a glimpse into the complexities of their marriage, Hemingway's writing career, and the bohemian lifestyle of the Jazz Age. The book provides a mix of historical insight and emotional depth, capturing the challenges faced by Hadley as the wife of a charismatic yet troubled literary figure.
The narrative of 'The Paris Wife' unfolds with a blend of fiction and reality, portraying the passionate but tumultuous relationship between Hemingway and Hadley. The writing style is praised for its vivid descriptions, evoking a strong sense of time and place, and for its ability to bring the characters to life. The book explores themes of love, sacrifice, ambition, and the impact of artistic pursuits on personal relationships, offering a poignant and engaging portrayal of a significant period in literary history.
It’s October 1920 and jazz is everywhere. I don’t know any jazz, so I’m playing Rachmaninoff. I can feel a flush beginning in my cheeks from the hard cider my dear pal Kate Smith has stuffed down me s... - #4
Save:The White Queen by Philippa Gregory is a historical novel set during the time of the War of the Roses, focusing on the life of Elizabeth Woodville, who becomes Queen of England after marrying King Edward IV. The book delves into the political intrigue, battles, and betrayals of the time, while also exploring Elizabeth's personal struggles, ambitions, and the mystery surrounding the fate of her two sons. Philippa Gregory's writing style weaves together historical facts with fictional elements, creating a captivating narrative that brings to life the complexities of court life and the power struggles of the era.
My father is Sir Richard Woodville, Baron Rivers, an English nobleman, a landholder, and a supporter of the true Kings of England, the Lancastrian line. My mother descends from the Dukes of Burgundy a...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Plantagenet and Tudor Novels ) - #5
Save:Captains and the Kings is a rich saga that delves into themes of greed, power, and the consequences that accompany them. The narrative follows Joseph Armagh, an Irish immigrant who rises to the top through scheming, betrayals, and manipulations. Set against the backdrop of American history, the book explores Joseph's complex character, filled with contradictions of charm and darkness, as he navigates through a world controlled by a secret group of powerful men. The story unfolds through events and memorable characters, painting a vivid picture of Joseph's relentless pursuit of success and power.
The book is a sprawling family saga loosely based on the Kennedys, offering a detailed exploration of fear, love, hate, poverty, wealth, and power. Through Joseph Armagh's journey, the reader is taken on a captivating and emotional ride, experiencing a mix of emotions deeply intertwined with the historical background. The narrative weaves together themes of ambition, manipulation, and familial dynamics, creating a compelling story that keeps readers engrossed till the end.
- #6
Save:The novel 'Stonehenge' by Bernard Cornwell is a historical fiction that delves into the possible origins of the iconic prehistoric stone structure. Set in Britain's bronze age, the story follows the lives of three brothers, their power struggles, sorcery, violence, and the creation of Stonehenge. Through vivid details and compelling characters, the book explores the political machinations, religious fervor, and the human endeavor required to build such a monumental structure. Cornwell's writing style is described as lean, tight plotting, and richly embroidered with believable characters, bringing to life a narrative of ancient Britain.
The book is praised for its impeccable historical detail, research, and the author's ability to create nuanced characters that resonate with readers. It offers a plausible narrative of the origins of Stonehenge, showcasing Cornwell's talent for character development and storytelling. The novel captures the time and travails of the people involved in the construction of Stonehenge, providing insight into the culture, beliefs, and sacrifices of the ancient Britons.
The gods talk by signs. It may be a leaf falling in summer, the cry of a dying beast or the ripple of wind on calm water. It might be smoke lying close to the ground, a rift in the clouds or the fligh... - #7
Save:'Viking's Dawn' by Henry Treece is the first part of a trilogy that follows the story of a young boy named Harald Sigurdson who embarks on a journey with a group of rovers in search of gold. The plot revolves around themes of ambition and betrayal, as the expedition is led by powerful and competitive leaders, Thorkell Fairhair and Ragnar Raven, who put the crew in perilous situations. The writing style is simple yet engaging, portraying the Viking characters as brave, cunning, and sometimes cruel, while also highlighting the transformation of the protagonist from a boy to a man through the challenges faced at sea.
- #8
Save:Set in 15th century Holland, "The Folly of the World" by Jesse Bullington follows the journey of a disenfranchised son, Jan, who is separated from his fortune due to class customs and a great flood. Teaming up with a psychotic henchman, Sander, and a poor sea diver, Jan embarks on a quest to reclaim his wealth amidst civil strife. The novel blends historical knowledge with elements of violence, graphic sex, the supernatural, and dark humor, creating a compelling narrative that delves into Dutch politics of the time.
The story unfolds in a late Middle Ages Renaissance setting with magical elements, where a fiesty teenage shellfish gatherer, a psychotic henchman, and his ruthless gay lover navigate a freshly flooded Holland. As the trio navigates through financial and political intrigue, the narrative explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the pursuit of fortune in a world rife with violence and deception.
A hush fell over the dingy, cramped tavern. Such an occurrence was not particularly rare, requiring little more than a dirty joke, even a bewhiskered one, but quiet the place did, and the handsome str... - #9
Save:If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio is a dark and suspenseful novel set in an eccentric conservatory college where seven fourth-year acting students are deeply immersed in Shakespearean theater. The story unfolds through the memories of Oliver, who has just been released from prison after serving a ten-year sentence for a crime that is gradually revealed. The book delves into the relationships, secrets, and tragedies that unfold among the students, all while incorporating Shakespearean quotes and themes throughout the narrative. The writing style is described as captivating, emotionally arresting, and filled with tension, making the book a thrilling and engrossing read.
I sit with my wrists cuffed to the table and I think, But that I am forbid / To tell the secrets of my prison-house, / I could a tale unfold whose lightest word / Would harrow up thy soul. The guard s... 'The Haj' by Leon Uris is a historical fiction novel that delves into the creation of Israel in the midst of turmoil in the Middle East. The story follows an Arab young man and his family, offering insights into the complexities of the region's culture and conflicts. Through the eyes of the characters, readers are taken on a journey through the struggles, betrayals, and survival during a time of violence and displacement in Palestine.
The writing style of Leon Uris in 'The Haj' is noted for its detailed historical backdrop and immersive storytelling. The novel provides a deep understanding of the Arab-Israeli conflict, touching on themes of cultural imperatives, human emotions, ambition, pride, friendship, and betrayal. Despite being biased towards the Jewish perspective, the book offers a compelling narrative that sheds light on the struggles and dilemmas faced by both Arab Palestinians and Israeli Jews in a tragic and complex historical context.
I AM ISHMAEL. I WAS born in Palestine during the riots of 1936. Since many things written here took place before my birth, you ask, ‘How could Ishmael know of them?’ Take the case of my father, Ibrahi...
