Books matching: ambition and loyalty
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- #1
Save:"Circus of Wonders" by Elizabeth Macneal is set in Victorian England and follows the story of Nell, a young woman with birthmarks who is ostracized by her community. When she is sold to Jasper Jupiter's Circus of Wonders, she becomes a star performer, captivating audiences with her unique act. The novel delves into themes of exploitation, vanity, and pride, exploring the lives of circus performers and the complex relationships between the characters. Through alternating perspectives, the author paints a vivid picture of the 1800s Victorian England and the world of the traveling circus.
The narrative of "Circus of Wonders" unfolds with richly atmospheric descriptions and deep characterizations, focusing on the lives of Nell, Jasper, and Toby. The story explores the delicate balance of power that connects their fates, revealing their hopes, dreams, and regrets. As Nell's fame grows within the circus, she faces challenges from Jasper, the showman determined to own her completely, and confronts her growing agency and affection for Toby. Against the backdrop of the Crimean War and the Victorian era, the novel weaves together themes of identity, power, fame, and loyalty, making it a compelling and immersive read.
- #2
Save:'All That Jazz' by Natasha Boyd is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of Jazz and Joey from the Butler Cove series. The story oscillates between the past and present, exploring the deep-rooted tension and complex relationship dynamics between the two characters. Through intricate storytelling, the author paints a vivid picture of young love, nostalgia, and the journey of self-discovery. Readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster as they witness the characters navigate through life's challenges, love, loss, and loyalty.
(Also, see 90 recommendations for the series Butler Cove ) - #3
Save:'Midnight Never Come' by Marie Brennan is a historical fantasy novel set in Elizabethan England, featuring a detailed and intricate faerie court hidden beneath London. The plot involves court intrigue, love, betrayal, and an interesting cast of characters, both fae and human. The writing style is praised for seamlessly merging historical fact with flights of fantasy, capturing the voice of the period with eloquent prose and suitably Elizabethan dialogue. The author expertly blurs the lines between natural and supernatural elements, creating vivid characterizations and a storyline grounded in contemporary politics and English folk tales.
Fitful drafts of chill air blew in through the cruciform windows of the Bell Tower, and the fire did little to combat them. The chamber was ill-lit, just wan sunlight filtering in from the alcoves and... - #4
Save:'The Borgia Confessions' by Alyssa Palombo is a historical fiction novel that delves into the lives of the infamous Borgia family during the Italian Renaissance. The story is narrated from the perspectives of Cesare Borgia and a maid named Maddalena, offering insights into the power dynamics, politics, and scandals within the Vatican Palace. The book provides a detailed account of the Borgias' rise to power, their ruthless ambition, and the complex relationships among family members as they navigate the intricacies of Italian and Papal history.
The narrative style of 'The Borgia Confessions' captures the reader's attention by presenting two contrasting viewpoints on the Borgia family's legacy. Through Cesare and Maddalena's eyes, the readers witness the manipulation, betrayals, and ambitions that shape the Borgias' journey to power. The author, Alyssa Palombo, skillfully weaves historical facts with fictional elements, creating a compelling story that explores themes of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of power in a captivating historical setting.
The bells of St. Peter’s—indeed, all of Rome—tolled incessantly to announce the death of the pope. Pope Innocent’s death was not unexpected; far from it. The Holy Father had been very ill of late, and... - #5
Save:'The Air You Breathe' by Frances de Pontes Peebles is a historical novel set in Brazil in the first half of the 20th century, focusing on the lives of two women, Dores and Graca, who form an unlikely friendship on a sugar plantation. As they navigate through poverty, ambition, and the music industry, their friendship evolves into a complex relationship marked by competition and sacrifices. The narrative shifts between different time periods, exploring themes of female friendship, music, ambition, and the struggles of climbing the ladder of success in the entertainment industry.
The novel delves deep into the vibrant and complex characters of Dores and Graca, whose lives are intertwined with the rise of popular samba music in Brazil. Through the lens of their friendship and shared passion for music, the book explores the themes of friendship, show business, love, and the impact of music on their lives. The author skillfully weaves together a tale of ambition, loyalty, and the pursuit of happiness in a richly detailed historical setting.
This is what one of Sofia Salvador’s directors—I can’t recall his name—used to shout before he’d start filming. Each time he said it, I imagined all of us in a fishbowl, our hands sliding frantically ... - #6
Save:'The Dressmaker' by Kate Alcott is a historical fiction novel set around the sinking of the Titanic. The story follows Tess Collins, a young maid who boards the Titanic and survives the tragedy. The plot delves into the aftermath of the disaster, focusing on Tess's experiences working for Lady Duff Gordon, a wealthy fashion designer, and the congressional inquiry that follows. The book explores themes of ambition, loyalty, relationships, and societal changes in the early 20th century, providing a unique perspective on the Titanic's survivors and their struggles.
The rotting wood planks beneath Lucile’s feet were spongy, catching her boot heels as she made her way through the crowd on the Cherbourg dock. She pulled her silver-fox stole snugly around her neck, ... - #7
Save:The Mask of Apollo by Mary Renault is a historical fiction novel set in ancient Greece, focusing on the life of Nikeratos, an actor in the 4th century BC. The story follows Nikeratos as he gets entangled in Syracusan politics and Plato's attempt to implement his theories of a philosopher king. Through Nikeratos' perspective, readers are immersed in the world of Greek theater, political intrigue, and philosophical discussions. The book delves into themes of ambition, loyalty, corruption, and the complexities of human nature against the backdrop of ancient Greece.
NOT MANY PEOPLE REMEMBER LAMPRIAS NOW IN Athens. But his company is still talked about in the Peloponnese. Ask in Corinth or Epidauros, no one will have heard of him; but down in the Argolid they will... - #8
Save:"The Takeover Effect" in the series "The Singh Family" by Nisha Sharma is a fast-paced rollercoaster that follows the relationship between well-developed characters amidst family dynamics, culinary delights, career aspirations, and sensual encounters. The plot revolves around corporate espionage, with a focus on the chemistry between Hem and Mina, two American Punjabi Sikhs. The narrative skillfully weaves together elements of romance, business intrigue, and familial relationships, creating a captivating story that leaves readers eager for the next installment in the trilogy.
The writing style of Nisha Sharma breathes life into the characters, making them feel real and relatable. The book explores themes of love, ambition, and loyalty against the backdrop of a business takeover, providing a blend of romance and suspense that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
- #9
Save:'Kingdom' by Yasuhisa Hara is a historical fiction manga set during the warring states period of China. It follows a boy named Xin as he strives to become a great general in the Qin army, supporting the king of Qin in their quest to unify China. The series is filled with epic battles, detailed strategic maneuvers, and the protagonist's journey from a foot soldier to a respected leader. The story intricately weaves historical events with fictional elements, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged for hundreds of chapters.
'Kingdom' by Yasuhisa Hara is known for its detailed depiction of army-based strategy and tactics, emphasizing the importance of generals outsmarting each other on the battlefield. The manga showcases the complexities of warfare during the warring states period, highlighting the significance of army building, formations, and tactical maneuvers. With a focus on historical battles, character development, and the protagonist's growth, 'Kingdom' offers readers a gripping tale of ambition, loyalty, and the pursuit of greatness in a time of chaos and conflict.
- #10
Save:Famous Last Words by Timothy Findley is a historical novel that intricately weaves together figures like Ezra Pound, the Duke of Windsor, Wallace Simpson, Charles Lindbergh, and Sir Harry Oakes amidst a backdrop of WWII fascism and conspiracy. The novel delves into themes of ambition, love, loyalty, and the sinister interplay between egotism and fascism, all set within a web of international intrigue and historical events.
The plot of Famous Last Words unfolds as a blend of thriller, horror, and meditation on history and the human soul. The writing style captures the essence of corruption, faded glamour, and murder, while presenting a richly crafted plot that constantly surprises and astounds the reader.
All he took with him was his notebooks: some of them packed in his attaché case, others jammed and crammed into a cardboard valise whose corners and handles were riveted with brass. Time and panic had...
