Books matching: characters' motivations and actions
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Lancelot: The Knight of the Cart by Chretien de Troyes is a medieval romance that introduces the iconic Lancelot and Guinevere love story. The plot revolves around Lancelot's unwavering love for Queen Guinevere, leading to a series of challenges and battles, showcasing themes of chivalry, honor, and courtly love. The writing style is described as brisk, exciting, and filled with adventures, combats, and feats of courage, creating a tale that resonates with deep meaning and enduring themes of love and betrayal.
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Save:'The Dragon Waiting' by John M. Ford is an alternative historical fantasy novel set in a Europe where the Byzantine Empire never fell and Christianity never became the dominant religion. The story follows a quartet of unique individuals, including a Welsh wizard, a German vampire engineer, and others, as they navigate a world filled with mages, vampires, political intrigue, and historical figures like Richard III and Lorenzo de Medici. The plot weaves together elements of medieval Europe, the War of the Roses, and fantastical components like magic and vampires, creating a rich and complex narrative that explores themes of power, betrayal, and survival.
The writing style of 'The Dragon Waiting' has been described as clever, elliptical, and occasionally horrific, blending magic, mystery, and political intrigue seamlessly. The book features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets, set against a backdrop of a Europe where deadly dynastic conflicts and ancient rivalries shape the course of history. While the plot may be challenging to follow at times due to abrupt scene changes and subtle storytelling, the novel offers a unique and engaging reading experience for fans of historical fiction and fantasy.
Dimi was well down the valley before his companions topped the rise; he heard their shouts, their horses' protests, then finally the rumble of hooves far behind. He laughed and whispered to white Luna... "Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer" by James L. Swanson is a detailed account of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln and the subsequent pursuit of John Wilkes Booth and his accomplices. The book delves into the intricate planning of the assassination, the escape of the perpetrators, and the intense efforts to bring them to justice. Through a fast-paced narrative, readers are taken on a gripping journey through the events leading up to and following Lincoln's tragic death, providing a vivid portrayal of the historical figures involved.
IT LOOKED LIKE A BAD DAY FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS. TERRIFIC winds and thunderstorms had swept through Washington early that morning, dissolving the dirt streets into a sticky muck of soil, garbage, and horse...- #4
Save:'I'll Never Tell' by Catherine McKenzie is a gripping mystery novel that revolves around the MacAllister family and the unsolved murder of a former camper that occurred 20 years ago at Camp Macaw. The story unfolds as the siblings come together to hear their parents' will, leading to a series of revelations, secrets, and a quest to uncover the truth behind Amanda's tragic fate. The narrative alternates between past and present, offering a suspenseful journey filled with twists, turns, and complex family dynamics.
The book is praised for its well-crafted plot, engaging storytelling, and intricate character development. Readers are drawn into the summer camp setting through vivid descriptions that evoke the sights, smells, and memories of the place. The alternating narrators and suspenseful pacing keep readers hooked, leading to a page-turning experience that culminates in a surprising and satisfying conclusion.
For Sean Booth, every morning for as long as he could remember began the same way, waking up in a small room crammed into the eaves of the lodge, the cheap blankets he slept under twisted around his a... - #5
Save:'Dark Eden' by Chris Beckett is a science fiction novel set on a planet where it is constantly dark, illuminated only by natural sources like glowing flora and fauna. The story follows a colony of humans, descendants of stranded astronauts, who are divided between traditionalists waiting for rescue from Earth and young individuals seeking to explore and adapt to their harsh environment. The narrative provides a nuanced exploration of motivations and conflicts within the colony, focusing on themes of survival, adaptation, and societal change.
The book presents a unique and intriguing world-building concept, depicting a society rooted in tradition and religious fanaticism, struggling with dwindling resources and the need for change. The plot unfolds with a mix of individual voices, showcasing shades of grey in characters' motives and actions, adding depth to the conflict between the old ways and the push for progress. Beckett's writing style, though initially challenging for some readers, immerses them in the dark and mysterious atmosphere of the alien planet, creating a compelling backdrop for the characters' struggles and decisions.
Hmmph, hmmph, hmmph, went the trees all around us, pumping and pumping hot sap from under ground. Hmmmmmmm, went forest. And from over Peckhamway came the sound of axes from Batwing group. They were s... - #6
Save:'War' in the series 'The Four Horsemen' by Laura Thalassa follows the story of War, the Horseman of the Apocalypse, who lands near Jerusalem, wreaking havoc and destruction as commanded. Miriam Elmahdy, a fearless weapons maker, finds herself entangled with War, who declares her to be his wife and takes her to his camp. The plot revolves around the obstacles of romance amidst the atrocities committed by War, showcasing Miriam's resilience and strength in the face of chaos and violence. The writing style combines elements of passion, intense chemistry, and emotionally taxing moments, creating a roller coaster journey for the characters and readers alike.
The narrative explores the complex relationship between War and Miriam, delving into themes of love, redemption, and the struggle between personal desires and the fate of humanity. Laura Thalassa skillfully weaves together a tale of survival, sacrifice, and the unlikely bond that forms between two individuals amidst a world on the brink of destruction.
I glance longingly at my bed. There’s no way I’m falling back asleep, which means I can work on my latest commission or I can go scavenging. I glance at the walls, where some of my finished products h...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Four Horsemen ) Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution by Simon Schama is a detailed and engaging history of the French Revolution, exploring the factors that led to this tumultuous period. Schama's writing style captivates readers with vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, delving into the lives of both revolutionary leaders and ordinary citizens. The book covers the evolution of France from a monarchy to a republic, highlighting the social upheaval and political transformations that occurred during this time.
Schama's narrative provides a comprehensive overview of the French Revolution, focusing on the brutality and violence that characterized the era. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, he offers a nuanced portrayal of the key events and figures, shedding light on the complexities of this pivotal moment in history. Readers are immersed in a vivid account of the revolution, from the upheaval in values to the reign of terror, providing a comprehensive understanding of the societal changes and political upheavals that defined this period.
In the brilliant spring of 1778, Talleyrand went to pay his respects to Voltaire. Even in a society where the worldliness of the clergy was notorious, this was a little unseemly. The ink had hardly dr...Vincent Bugliosi's book 'Reclaiming History: The Assassination of John F. Kennedy' delves into the infamous assassination of President JFK, providing readers with a comprehensive education on the case while debunking spurious conspiracy theories. Bugliosi's writing style is focused on presenting clear analysis of facts, dealing with motive, causation, and the linkage between the assassin, the crime, and the victim. The book meticulously covers the events of November 1963, thoroughly examining the actual events and refuting various conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination.
Author’s Note: All times noted throughout this chapter are derived, when possible, from reliable sources (e.g., Dallas police radio recordings, television videotapes with times on screen). When not, t...- #9
Save:"Whiskey Lullaby" by Dawn Martens is a heartfelt story that revolves around the complicated relationship between Julie and Jase. After a devastating betrayal, Julie leaves town, only to return years later to face Jase again, who has been drowning his sorrows in alcohol and casual relationships. delves into themes of forgiveness, redemption, and second chances as Julie and Jase navigate through their past mistakes and present challenges, all set in a close-knit community near Nashville. The writing style is poignant and raw, capturing the emotions and struggles of the characters with honesty and depth, making the reader truly empathize with their journey.
Today is family dinner at Pop’s. I think it’s total bullshit. He started this shit after Mom died. As far as I’m concerned, it’s too fucking late for him to turn into a family man now. He should have ... - #10
Save:The Queen's Necklace by Alexandre Dumas is a historical fiction novel that delves into the infamous Affair of the Diamond Necklace involving Marie Antoinette. Dumas weaves a tale of plot and counterplot, intrigue, mysterious characters, and love, all set against the backdrop of the French Monarchy. The story follows the enterprising Jeanne as she maneuvers herself into high society, the mysterious Monsieur de Cagliostro's interest in a doppelganger to the queen, and Beausire's elaborate plan to steal a necklace meant for the queen. The novel is filled with various intertwined plots, vivid characters, and historical events reimagined through Dumas' lively storytelling style.
The winter of 1784, that monster which devoured half France, we could not see, although he growled at the doors, while at the house of M. de Richelieu, shut in as we were in that warm and comfortable ...
(Also, see 2 recommendations for the series The Marie Antoinette Romances )
