Books matching: appeal to adult readers
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:"Secret of the Ron Mor Skerry" by Rosalie K. Fry is a subtle and calm tale that follows Fiona, a young girl returning to her grandparents on an island near her birthplace, the Isle of Ron Mor. As Fiona reconnects with her family, she uncovers the mystery of her younger brother Jamie, who was left behind in a watertight cradle and disappeared at sea. The story seamlessly transitions into a magical selkie tale, blending family history, island life, and the enchanting call of the sea, all narrated with simplicity and charm.
Out there in the bow of the plunging ship, the child felt herself in a world of her own with the gulls and the leaping waves. She was startled when a strange voice spoke behind her. She spun around an... - #2
Save:The River at Green Knowe is the third book in Lucy Boston's Green Knowe series, taking readers on a magical journey with characters like Ida, Oskar, and Ping exploring flooded areas and mysterious islands around an ancient house. The narrative seamlessly weaves poetic language with dreamy adventures, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. The story delves into themes of magic, disbelief in the supernatural, and the contrast between children's perception and adult ignorance.
Boston introduces a new formula in the series, focusing on two elderly women renting the house and inviting displaced children for summer holidays. The book presents episodic magical experiences, from witnessing a pagan festival to encountering a giant who joins the circus, all set in the enchanting backdrop of Green Knowe.
(Also, see 91 recommendations for the series Green Knowe ) - #3
Save:Witchlings by Claribel A. Ortega is a deeply magical coming of age story where Witchlings in Ravenskill are sorted into covens during an annual ceremony. Seven, the main character, dreams of being placed in House Hyacinth but finds herself categorized as a spare. To keep her magic, Seven volunteers herself and fellow spares to complete an Impossible Task, facing the risk of being turned into toads if they fail. The story follows Seven, Thorn, and Valley as they navigate relationships, injustices, and a dangerous monstruo crisis while working to defeat a Nightbeast.
The book touches on themes of friendship, loss, coming of age, growth, magic, and insecurities, focusing on the internal development of the main character, Seven. Ortega's writing style creates a whimsical and enchanting world filled with lovable characters, vibrant illustrations, and plot twists that keep the reader engaged. The story unfolds gradually, showcasing the growth of the characters and addressing tough experiences with injustices and themes of superiority vs. inferiority.
- #4
Save:'Rise of the Wolf' in the 'Wereworld' series by Curtis Jobling follows the story of Drew Ferran, a farm boy who discovers he is a shapeshifter after a tragic incident involving his family. Accused of his mother's murder, Drew embarks on a journey of survival and self-discovery in a dark and mysterious world filled with werelords and shapeshifters. As Drew's trials unfold, he navigates through a feudal-like society, facing challenges and uncovering his true destiny amidst an unforgiving environment.
The plot of 'Rise of the Wolf' is filled with plot twists, well-rounded characters, and an engaging world that captivates readers. The writing style is fast-paced, with a focus on Drew's character development and the intricate details of the world around him. Curtis Jobling's storytelling immerses readers in a realm where werewolves, werelords, and various other werecreatures coexist, creating a unique and original fantasy setting.
The axe hovered briefly in the air, poised for the drop, its blade glinting in the lantern light. With a thunderclap and a simultaneous flash of lightning, it flew down, cracking the log in two. Drew ... - #5
Save:Sorta Like a Rock Star by Matthew Quick is a heartwarming YA novel that follows the story of Amber Appleton, a high school girl facing unusual circumstances and hardships. Living on a bus with her mother, Amber finds solace in her friends, a group of misfits including a war vet, a nursing home villain, and a Catholic priest. Despite facing despair and doubt, Amber's resilience and optimism shine through as she navigates through dark times with the support of her community. The book touches on heavy topics but delivers a message of hope and survival through the inspiring journey of its protagonist.
Lying down, shivering on the last seat of school bus 161, pinned by his teensy doggie gaze, which is completely 100% cute—I’m such a girl, I know—I say, “You won’t believe the bull I had to endure tod... - #6
Save:In "The Ruby in the Smoke," Sally Lockhart, a recently orphaned 16-year-old, finds herself entangled in a complex mystery involving her father's death, a stolen ruby, opium dens, and sinister characters in Victorian London. As Sally navigates through the dark and dangerous alleys of the city, she must use her intelligence and courage to unravel the secrets hidden behind the smoke-filled opium dens and solve the mystery before it's too late. Pullman weaves a gripping tale filled with intrigue, betrayal, and treasure, drawing readers into a world of murder and suspense through vivid descriptions and compelling characters.
Sally Lockhart emerges as a strong and independent protagonist, defying societal expectations and facing off against villains while showcasing her cleverness and charm. The narrative unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Sally and her companions delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding her father's past and the enigmatic ruby. Pullman's skillful storytelling captures the essence of Victorian England, blending elements of adventure, danger, and dark secrets to create a captivating young adult mystery that appeals to readers of all ages.
On a cold, fretful afternoon in early October, 1872, a hansom cab drew up outside the offices of Lockhart and Selby, Shipping Agents in the financial heart of London, and a young girl got out and paid... - #7
Save:'Stalky & Co.' by Rudyard Kipling is a novel set in a small Victorian era public school on the Cornish coast of Britain, following the adventures of three schoolboys - Stalky, Beetle, and M'Turk. The book showcases the boys' rebellious and cunning nature as they subvert rules, frustrate their teachers, and prepare themselves for life in the military. Despite the casual brutality of the late nineteenth century and the lack of female characters, the story is entertaining and humorous, highlighting themes of fairness and the use of power in society.
The novel is described as a quintessential English public school story, portraying the boys' ferocious joy in exacting revenge against authority figures and their ability to outsmart their elders. Kipling's writing style captures the essence of schoolboy camaraderie, mischief, and the unconventional ways in which the characters navigate their educational environment to prepare for adulthood.
"Look out. You'll smash my gig-lamps," puffed Beetle, emerging. "Wasn't it glorious? Didn't I 'Eric' 'em splendidly? Did you spot my cribs from King? Oh, blow!" His countenance clouded. "There's one a... - #8
Save:'13 Minutes' by Sarah Pinborough is a YA murder mystery that delves into the dark world of teenage social dynamics, betrayal, and revenge. The story follows Natasha, a teenage girl who is found in a river after being dead for 13 minutes, with no memory of the events leading up to her near-death experience. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a journey through the intricate web of relationships among Natasha, her former best friend Rebecca, and their social circle known as the Barbies. The narrative is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged as they unravel the mystery behind Natasha's incident.
The writing style of Sarah Pinborough in '13 Minutes' is described as gripping and suspenseful, with multiple points of view, text message conversations, and excerpts from journals adding layers to the storytelling. The characters are well-developed, portraying a mix of personalities typical of a sixth form in the UK, and the use of various media formats enhances the narrative, drawing readers into the complexities of teenage emotions and social pressures in the modern world.
She was young. No more than eighteen. Probably less. Her hair could be blonde or brown, it was hard to tell, soaked wet in the gloom. She was wearing white, bright against the dark river, almost an ac... - #9
Save:'Switch Bitch' by Roald Dahl is a collection of four short stories that delve into the realm of sex, exploring themes of deceit, revenge, and manipulation. The writing style is described as darkly humorous, witty, and sardonic, showcasing Dahl's ability to captivate readers with his sharp storytelling. The book takes readers on a journey through unconventional and provocative narratives that challenge societal norms and expectations, while maintaining a sense of absurdity and entertainment throughout.
Not long ago, a large wooden case was deposited at the door of my house by the railway delivery service. It was an unusually strong and well-constructed object, and made of some kind of dark-red hardw... - #10
Save:The Wolf in the Whale by Jordanna Max Brodsky is a historical fantasy novel that beautifully blends Inuit and Norse mythology. The story follows Omat, an Inuit girl raised as a boy to become a shaman, as she embarks on a journey to save her family. Along the way, she encounters a Viking warrior and together, they set off a conflict involving both Inuit and Norse gods. The book intricately weaves together elements of both cultures, creating a detailed and engrossing narrative that explores themes of mythology, culture clash, and the supernatural.
I woke to the sound of Puja pushing the lamp wick into place with her small blackened poker. Bone striking stone, urging the light to rise in small mountain peaks of flame along the lamp’s crescent ed...
