Books matching: blurred lines between fantasy and reality
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- #1
After Julia's sister is murdered, Julia discovers her sister's secret life on an internet hookup website and becomes entangled in a dangerous world of online liaisons and illicit affairs. As Julia delves deeper into the mystery of her sister's murder, her own life spirals out of control, leading to unexpected twists and turns that challenge her perception of reality. 'Second Life' by S.J. Watson is a domestic thriller that explores themes of addiction, betrayal, and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality, ultimately culminating in a gripping and ambiguous ending that leaves readers questioning the characters' motivations.
I close my eyes and breathe as deeply as I can. I concentrate on filling my lungs, I straighten my shoulders, I feel the tension in my body evaporate as I breathe out. I tell myself there’s nothing to... - #2
Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse is a complex exploration into the human psyche, focusing on the existential crisis of the protagonist, Harry Haller. The novel delves into the inner conflict between Haller's civilized side and the primitive wolf inside him, leading to a profound clash that brings him to the brink of peril. Throughout the story, various experiences challenge Haller to undergo a transformation, guided by intriguing characters like Hermine, who attempts to reconcile the two conflicting sides of his nature.
The narrative unfolds as a surreal journey of self-discovery and redemption, where the protagonist navigates through themes of isolation, despair, and the search for meaning in life. Hesse leaves the interpretation of the blurred lines between fantasy and reality up to the reader, creating a thought-provoking and introspective tale that explores the complexities of human existence and the struggle to reconcile different aspects of one's personality.
THE DAY HAD GONE BY JUST AS DAYS GO BY. I had killed it in accordance with my primitive and retiring way of life. I had worked for an hour or two and perused the pages of old books. I had had pains fo... - #3
Broken Things by Lauren Oliver is a murder mystery intertwined with social commentary, tackling themes of bullying, abusive relationships, and mental health. The story follows Mia and Brynn, two friends accused of murdering their best friend, as they reunite years later to uncover the truth behind the crime. Through flashbacks and multi-perspective storytelling, the book delves into the complexities of teenage relationships, obsessions, and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality.
I chased her down and cracked her over the head with a rock. Then I dragged her body out of the woods and into a field and arranged it in the center of a circle of stones I’d placed there with my othe... - #4
Collected Fictions by Jorge Luis Borges is a collection of short stories that delve into fantastical worlds, odd realities, and philosophical musings. Borges weaves intricate narratives filled with paradoxes, gaucho knife fights, labyrinths, and infinite libraries. His writing style is described as mind-bending, deeply memorable, and engaging, touching on themes of history, the life of the mind, and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality. The stories are often dense, thought-provoking, and sometimes eerie, resonating with readers on a profound level.
In 1517, Fray Bartolomé de las Casas, feeling great pity for the Indians who grew worn and lean in the drudging infernos of the Antillean gold mines, proposed to Emperor Charles V that Negroes be brou... - #5
The novel 'Blue Movie' by Terry Southern follows the story of directors Sid and Boris as they embark on a project to create a pornographic film that is artistically groundbreaking and shocking to the industry. The narrative satirically skewers Hollywood of the 1960s, showcasing the characters' ambitions to produce a high-class artistic stag film with celebrities and cinematic triumphs. The book delves into the complexities of filmmaking, exploring themes of love, ambition, and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality.
Terry Southern's writing style in 'Blue Movie' is described as humorous, provocative, and ahead of its time. The book combines elements of satire, absurdity, and social commentary, offering a unique perspective on the world of filmmaking and the entertainment industry. Southern's storytelling weaves together explicit scenes with witty dialogue, creating a narrative that challenges societal norms and expectations.
“THEN SHE SAYS, now dig this, she says . . .” and he broke up laughing, a strange, rasping laugh, for maybe the fourth time since he started what was shaping up as an interminable story, “. . .she say... - #6
'Quichotte' by Salman Rushdie is a complex and ambitious novel that delves into themes of impossible love, family relationships, racism, and the intertwining of reality and fantasy. The story follows a character named Quichotte Quixote and his imaginary son Sancho on a quest to woo a movie star, all while exploring issues such as immigration, drug addiction, forgiveness, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. Rushdie's writing style is described as thought-provoking, challenging, and rewarding, blending satire, humor, and poignant moments seamlessly.
Miss Salma R, the exceptional woman (and total stranger) to whom Quichotte had declared his undying devotion, came from a dynasty of adored ladies. Think of her family this way: Granny R was Greta Gar... "The Three Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch" by Philip K. Dick is a mind-bending science fiction novel set in the late 21st century where Earth is plagued by extreme global warming. The story follows characters who escape their bleak reality through a hallucinogenic drug called Can-D, which transports them into a fantasy world centered around a game called Perky Pat. When a new, more addictive drug called Chew-Z is introduced by the mysterious Palmer Eldritch, the line between reality and fantasy becomes blurred, leading to a complex, reality-bending nightmare. Dick's writing style is described as rich in ideas, unnerving, and capable of delivering a wild ride that challenges the reader to question what is real and what is fantasy.
His head unnaturally aching, Barney Mayerson woke to find himself in an unfamiliar bedroom in an unfamiliar conapt building. Beside him, the covers up to her bare, smooth shoulders, an unfamiliar girl...- #8
The Marbury Lens by Andrew Smith is a dark and intense young adult novel that follows the story of Jack, a teenager who is kidnapped and drugged by a doctor. After escaping, Jack finds himself in an alternate world called Marbury, where he must navigate between reality and fantasy with the help of his friend Conner and love interest Nickie. The book covers mature themes such as mental illness, violence, abuse, and death, making it best suited for older teenage readers. The narrative blurs the lines between sanity and insanity, leaving readers questioning what is real and what is a figment of Jack's mind.
The plot of The Marbury Lens is gripping and disturbing, featuring vivid world-building and a narrative that intertwines the real world with the horrors of Marbury. Andrew Smith's writing style is described as gritty and well-crafted, immersing readers in Jack's journey and the nightmarish landscape of Marbury. The book is not for the faint of heart, as it delves into graphic violence and explores complex themes of trauma, parallel universes, and the supernatural, leaving readers on edge and questioning their own perception of reality.
It was one of the biggest houses in Glenbrook. Wynn built it when my mother was just a kid. It sat on over four hundred acres of some of the best grape-growing land in Central California, and that’s h... - #9
'Bordertown' in the 'Borderlands' series by Mark Alan Arnold and Terri Windling is a modern fantasy story set in a city where the human world intersects with the world of faerie. The city of Bordertown is a place where humans, elves, and halflings coexist, with technology working sporadically and magic always present. The narrative explores the unpredictable nature of magic and technology in Bordertown, where rock'n'roll holds a unique power, and the inhabitants are a mix of friendly creatures and less-than-friendly individuals. The protagonist embarks on a journey to Bordertown, encountering a strange and dangerous world that is both wondrous and adventurous, filled with unique characters and settings.
The writing style of 'Bordertown' is described as a delightful escapism mishmash that has maintained its appeal over the years. offers a blend of modern fantasy elements, where the boundary between the Realm of Faerie and the human world creates a setting that is both intriguing and adventurous. The story unfolds in a way that captivates readers, immersing them in a world where magic and technology collide, and where the characters navigate through a city that is both enchanting and perilous.
(Also, see 25 recommendations for the series Borderlands ) - #10
'The Diary of a Rapist' by Evan S. Connell is a gripping novel that delves into the mind of Earl Summerfield, a man trapped in a loveless marriage and a mundane job. Earl's diary chronicles his inner turmoil, fears, and frustrations, as well as his descent into delusions and impulsive acts of violence. The book presents a vivid portrayal of Earl's misogynistic and violent tendencies, as well as his obsession with a beauty queen that leads to disturbing consequences.
Connell's writing style in 'The Diary of a Rapist' is described as raw, absorbing, and deeply psychological. The author skillfully takes the reader into Earl's deteriorating mental state, showcasing his erratic behavior, self-loathing, and disturbing fantasies. The narrative unfolds with a sense of unease and tension, drawing readers into Earl's twisted perspective and the dark realities of his life.
This afternoon on the way home from work saw three women fighting in the street. One had fallen to her knees, clothing pulled to rags. The others were jerking at her hair, hitting her furiously across...