Books matching: civil war connection
19 result(s)
- #1
Save:Lincoln's Dreams by Connie Willis is a historical fantasy novel that follows the story of Jeff, a researcher for a Civil War novelist, who meets Annie, a woman tormented by dreams that seem to be those of General Robert E. Lee. The book alternates between historical facts about the Civil War and the present-day efforts of Jeff to understand and stop Annie's troubling dreams. As the plot unfolds, Jeff becomes entangled in a journey to uncover the meaning behind Annie's dreams and prevent them from causing her harm, all while exploring themes of duty, love, and the connection between dreams and reality.
The writing style of Connie Willis in Lincoln's Dreams combines meticulous research with a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of dreams and their significance. The novel expertly weaves together historical accuracy with a modern-day setting, creating a compelling story that explores the impact of the Civil War on individuals and the enduring mysteries of the human psyche.
They bred such horses in Virginia then, Horses that were remembered after death And buried not so far from Christian ground That if their sleeping riders should arise They could not witch them from th... 'Gone for Soldiers: A Novel of the Mexican War' by Jeff Shaara is a captivating novel that focuses on the US Mexican War and the notable generals who played crucial roles in it. The author provides insight into the dynamics of strategy, the early years of soldiers like Robert E. Lee, and the connections between the Mexican War and the American Civil War. Readers appreciated the personal look at the conduct of the war, the overview of the conflict without being too detailed, and the emphasis on the young leaders who would later become significant figures in the Civil War.
THEY HAD SAILED EARLY, CUTTING SOUTHWARD THROUGH THE quiet water, the rugged coastline barely visible to the west. Lee had moved to the bow of the tall ship, staring out quietly, tasting the salt air,...- #3
Save:The Secret Lovers by Charles McCarry is a spy novel that delves into the complexities of espionage, personal relationships, and the blurred lines between truth and deception. The story follows Paul Christopher, a covert operative, as he navigates a world of secrets and betrayals, both in his professional and personal life. The narrative unfolds with intricate plot twists, uncovering layers of hidden agendas and past connections that shape the characters' fates.
The writing style of The Secret Lovers is praised for its realism, graceful prose, and attention to detail in portraying the world of espionage. The novel offers a mix of spy intrigue and intricate character development, with a particular focus on the protagonist's internal conflicts and the challenges of maintaining personal relationships in the world of tradecraft. Readers are drawn into a web of secrets, mysteries, and moral dilemmas that keep them engaged until the final revelation.
(Also, see 48 recommendations for the series Paul Christopher ) - #4
Save:Simon the Fiddler is a historical fiction novel set in post-Civil War Texas, following the story of Simon Boudlin, a fiddler who avoids conscription into the Confederate Army due to his youthful appearance. The plot revolves around Simon's journey with his band of musicians, his love for an Irish governess named Doris, and his pursuit of a peaceful life amidst the chaotic post-war landscape. The writing style is described as vivid and descriptive, capturing the harsh realities and emotions of the characters as they navigate through Texas.
Simon the fiddler had managed to evade the Confederate conscription men because he looked much younger than he was and he did everything he could to further that impression. His hair was reddish brown... - #5
Save:The Muse by Jessie Burton is a historical fiction novel that weaves together two timelines, set in 1960s England and 1930s Spain, centered around a lost painting. The story follows the lives of two protagonists, Odelle and Olive, as they navigate their internal struggles related to art and its acceptance by society. The book is praised for its dual narrative settings, rich descriptions of the art world, and the way the author unravels a mystery while exploring themes of love, deception, and family secrets.
Not all of us receive the ends that we deserve. Many moments that change a life’s course – a conversation with a stranger on a ship, for example – are pure luck. And yet – no one writes you a letter, ... - #6
Save:An Unnecessary Woman by Rabih Alameddine is a novel that delves into the life of Aaliya, an elderly woman in Beirut who spends her days translating books into Arabic but never attempts to publish them. The book follows Aaliya's reflections on her life, her love for literature, and her solitude as she navigates through memories, literary references, and her unique perspective on the world around her. Through her introspections, the reader is taken on a journey of self-discovery and contemplation as Aaliya muses on her past, present, and the connections between experiences, emotions, and ideas.
The writing style of An Unnecessary Woman is described as elegant, thought-provoking, and unique, with the protagonist's voice being engaging and strong. The novel is filled with literary references, philosophical insights, and poignant observations on life, art, and human connections. Aaliya's character is portrayed as complex, introspective, and relatable, making the reader ponder on themes of solitude, self-reflection, and the power of literature in shaping one's identity and understanding of the world.
First, you should know this about me: I have but one mirror in my home, a smudged one at that. I’m a conscientious cleaner, you might even say compulsive—the sink is immaculately white, its bronze fau... - #7
Save:'Way Station' by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novel that follows the story of Enoch Wallace, a Civil War veteran living in Wisconsin who is chosen to operate a way station for intergalactic travelers on Earth. Despite being over a hundred years old and not aging, Enoch must navigate his quiet life and the complexities of his role as a keeper of the station, all while facing threats to the galactic federation and decisions about Earth's future. The book explores themes of identity, humanity, and the consequences of violence through Enoch's introspective journey and interactions with various alien species.
The noise was ended now. The smoke drifted like thin, gray wisps of fog above the tortured earth and the shattered fences and the peach trees that had been whittled into toothpicks by the cannon fire.... - #8
Save:'Wounds: A Memoir of War and Love' by Fergal Keane is a detailed and personal account of the Irish troubles, focusing on the author's own family history. Keane delves into the complexities of family and national loyalties during a tumultuous period in Irish history, providing insights into the pain and struggles faced by individuals caught in the midst of political turmoil. Through a blend of fact and poetic myth, the author paints a vivid picture of life in Ireland, especially in Listowel, Kerry, during the early 20th century, highlighting the impact of violence, terror, and murder on communities.
Keane's writing style in 'Wounds' is described as insightful, courageous, and well-researched, offering a balanced macro view of Ireland's history while also delving into individual stories of tragedy and resilience. weaves together personal anecdotes, historical events, and political contexts to provide a comprehensive understanding of the inner turmoils of Ireland, past and present, shedding light on the complexities of conflicts, loyalties, and the human experience amidst war and love.
His manner was that the heads of all those (of what sort so ever they were) which were killed in the day, should be cut off from their bodies, and brought to the place where he encamped at night: and ... - #9
Save:In 'The Invasion', the story continues with Nessa, a girl with polio twisted legs who is branded a traitor and sent back to the Grey Land where the Sidhe, an evil race of faeries, reside. The book delves into the challenges Nessa faces, the hatred directed towards her, and her resilience in fighting against the odds. The narrative explores themes of betrayal, survival, and the dark, fantastical world of the Grey Land filled with creatures and landscapes inspired by Irish lore.
The sequel introduces new characters while continuing the story of familiar ones like Nessa and Anto. The plot unfolds with an impending invasion by the Sidhe, leading to a war between humans and faeries. The book is described as a gripping, dark read that keeps readers engaged with its detailed descriptions of the Grey Land and the characters' emotional development amidst the chaos.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Call ) - #10
Save:Set in post-Civil War Cadiz, Spain, 'The Maze of Cadiz' follows British intelligence officer Peter Cotton as he investigates the mysterious death of agent Ronald May. Against the backdrop of Franco's Spain and the waning days of World War II, Cotton navigates a web of intrigue involving a diverse cast of characters, each with their own hidden agendas. Author Aly Monroe weaves a suspenseful tale with evocative descriptions, capturing the atmosphere of a war-weary Spain where nothing is as it seems, and the lines between heroism and ambiguity blur.
