Books matching: class disparity
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- #1
Save:A dark, atmospheric start to a Canadian detective series that’s rich in history and character. Come for the mystery, stay for the authentic sense of time and place - just don’t expect a light-hearted whodunit.
Set in late 19th-century Toronto, 'Except the Dying' follows Detective William Murdoch as he investigates the mysterious death of a young pregnant woman. The book delves into the social classes and interactions of the time, providing a detailed and authentic portrayal of life in Canada at the turn of the 20th century. Readers are taken on a journey of uncovering clues and solving the murder in a time when crimes were solved using wit, observation, and deduction rather than modern forensic techniques. The author, Maureen Jennings, weaves a compelling mystery that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
THE WIND CUT TO THE BONE and Alice Black pulled her shawl tight about her head and throat. The hot gin was a fire in her stomach but no defence against the cold of the winter night. She grumbled to he...1997•356 pages - #2
Save:A punchy, fast-paced sci-fi novella with heart, cool tech, and social bite. It’s not without flaws, but it’s well worth the read for anyone who enjoys near-future thrillers with a brain.
Runtime by S.B. Divya is a science fiction novella set in a future America where a young protagonist named Marmeg competes in a challenging marathon cyborg footrace across the Sierra Nevada range. Marmeg, coming from a lower social class, must scavenge parts to build her exoskeleton and survival suit to compete against rivals with advanced technology. The story explores themes of societal class divide, body modifications, gender exploration, and the struggle for a better life in a dystopian world with an unsettling yet realistic caste system.
The wall behind Marmeg thrummed with the muffled impact of bass beats. A line of girls in heels mixed with boys in lacy shirts, both interspersed with androgynous moots wearing whatever they wanted. B...May 2016•128 pages - #3
Save:A fun, sometimes melodramatic regency romance with flair, heart, and a relatable heroine. Not the standout of the series, but still delivers that escapist historical charm. Best for those looking for comfort reads with a classic feel.
"Slightly Wicked" follows the story of Judith Law, a woman facing a life as a poor relation who finds herself in a complicated tangle after a brief affair with the wealthy and high ton Bedwyn brother, Rannulf. The plot focuses on Judith's journey from hiding and hating herself to loving and rejoicing in herself, with the help of Rannulf's friendship and love. The writing style is described as enjoyable, with a mix of Shakespearean comedy, Jane Austen wit, and a Cinderella-like transformation.
For the first time in her twenty-two years of existence she was traveling by stagecoach. Within the first mile or two she had been disabused of any notion she might ever have entertained that it was a... - #4
Save:A brief but beautifully written meditation on young love and lost innocence during WWI - lyrical, moving, and perfect for readers who don’t mind a touch of idealism with their existential angst.
Pierre and Luce is a novel set during World War I, focusing on the story of two young lovers, Pierre and Luce, who find love amidst the turmoil of war. The book explores the psychological effects of the war on the characters, portraying them as disillusioned with the world's governing powers and false promises of nationalism. Despite the looming threat of war and Pierre's impending military service, the two teenagers develop a strong and pure love that transcends their social class differences. Romain Rolland expertly crafts a narrative that delicately balances between hope and hopelessness, touching upon themes of love, class disparity, and societal expectations during wartime.
Pierre plunged into the subway. A feverish, a brutal crowd. On his feet near the door, closely pressed in a bank of human bodies and sharing the heavy atmosphere passing in and out of their mouths, he...1920•110 pages - #5
Save:The Dinner Guest by B P Walter is a thrilling mystery centered around a gay couple, Charlie and Matthew, and their son, Titus. The story begins with a shocking dinner party where Matthew is found murdered, and Rachel, a new acquaintance, confesses to the crime. The plot unfolds through alternating perspectives of Charlie and Rachel, skillfully revealing their complex relationships and the dark secrets of their seemingly perfect lives. The writing style is engaging and fast-paced, keeping readers on edge with unexpected twists and palpable tension.
While some readers found the character development lacking and the plot somewhat predictable, others appreciated the novel's unique narrative structure and the exploration of themes like class disparity. The emotional roller coaster of love, hate, and moral ambiguity surrounding the characters adds depth to the reading experience, promising a thrilling conclusion that, although divisive, captivates those who enjoy an intense psychological thriller.
We first met Rachel in a bookshop. Matthew and I had gone into town, leaving Titus at home baking cakes with my mother. When we’d decided to settle in Chelsea, it was one of my fears that my mother, b...April 2021•409 pages - #6
Save:An enjoyable, heartfelt NA romance with smart writing, real emotional stakes, and a lovable cast - great for fans of the genre, though it may not wow readers looking for a twist on the classic formula.
Nothing But Trouble by P. Dangelico follows the story of Alice, a hardworking film student from a blue-collar background, and Reagan, a privileged premed student and water polo star from a wealthy family. Their unlikely friendship blossoms into a deep romance as they navigate the challenges of their different backgrounds and aspirations at Malibu University. The book is praised for its slow-burn romance, well-developed characters, and the emotional depth of the storyline, making it a compelling and engaging read.
It took a while for the painkillers to finally kick in, for me to feel more human and less Incredible Hulk, and once the pain became tolerable, Dr. Fred sent us to a medical supply store to pick up a...2019•325 pages - #7
Save:A zippy, entertaining mystery romp full of twists, quirky characters, and a puzzle that keeps you guessing till the end - maybe not peak Christie, but still a delightful read for cozy mystery fans!
Bobby Jones, the fourth son of the vicar, finds a dying man at the bottom of a cliff while playing golf. Despite the inquest ruling it as misadventure, Bobby and his friend Frankie believe there is more to it and decide to investigate. As they delve deeper, they uncover a complex and dangerous plot involving several murders, leading to them being targeted as potential victims. The book is described as a fast-paced mystery with plenty of twists and turns, featuring likable characters and a plot that keeps the readers engaged.
There were no eager crowds to groan with dismay. The solitary witness of the shot manifested no surprise. And that is easily explained—for it was not the American-born master of the game who had playe...1934•295 pages - #8
Save:A moving, ambitious historical novel that blends mystery, drama, and social history - brilliant for patient readers who like their fiction both literary and deeply human.
In the bitter winter of 1847, the Star of the Sea sets sail from Ireland to New York, carrying a diverse group of passengers escaping the famine. The book weaves together the stories of these characters, ranging from impoverished farmers to titled nobility, exploring their motives and interactions during the voyage. The narrative delves into the tragedy, mercy, love, and healing experienced by the passengers, all while hinting at a murder mystery that adds suspense to the historical backdrop of the Irish famine.
Joseph O'Connor's writing style in "Star of the Sea" is described as beautifully written, with superb characterisation reminiscent of Dickens. The book provides a harrowing yet realistic account of the Irish refugees' journey to America, highlighting the greed of the ship's owners and the kindness of certain characters like the ship's captain and surgeon. The intertwining narratives and the depth of characterisation create a vivid portrayal of life during the famine-stricken Ireland, making the book a compelling and thought-provoking read.
2002•439 pages - #9
Save:Weird, wonderful, and wise - a fast read that's both snarky and surprisingly moving. If you like your fiction with a big heart and a quirky twist, give it a go!
'Nothing to See Here' by Kevin Wilson is a unique and heartwarming story about Lillian, who is asked by her wealthy friend Madison to become the governess for Madison's two stepchildren, Bessie and Roland. The catch is that these children burst into flames when they are upset. Despite the fantastical element of spontaneous combustion, the book delves into themes of relationships, responsibilities, family dynamics, and personal growth. The writing style is described as entertaining, emotional, funny, and beautifully woven together, with a focus on character development and setting descriptions.
In the late spring of 1995, just a few weeks after I’d turned twenty-eight, I got a letter from my friend Madison Roberts. I still thought of her as Madison Billings. I heard from Madison four or five...October 2019•285 pages - #10
Save:A fun, fast-paced YA retelling perfect for romance lovers and fans of classic stories with a futuristic twist. Not without flaws, but highly enjoyable - especially for those in need of an interstellar escape.
In "Brightly Burning" by Alexa Donne, readers are taken on a futuristic journey where Earth is in the midst of an ice age, forcing humanity to live on space ships orbiting the planet. The story follows Stella Ainsley, a 17-year-old engineer aboard a struggling ship who seizes the opportunity to become a governess on a more luxurious vessel, the Rochester. There, she meets the handsome and mysterious Captain Hugo, and as strange occurrences unfold on board, Stella finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and conspiracies. Donne skillfully weaves elements of the original "Jane Eyre" into this science fiction retelling, creating a captivating blend of romance, mystery, and intrigue set against the backdrop of a dystopian future.
The book is praised for its solid world-building, engaging characters, and creative adaptation of the classic story to fit a futuristic setting. Readers appreciate the entertaining and easy-to-read nature of the book, with many noting the parallels to the original "Jane Eyre" while also acknowledging the unique twists and surprises that Donne introduces. Despite some aspects feeling rushed, the overall storytelling and pacing keep readers invested in Stella's journey as she navigates love, loyalty, and self-discovery in a world where humanity's survival hangs in the balance.
The gravity stabilizers were failing again. I glanced up from my sketchpad to see globules of liquid dancing up from my drinking glass. They shimmered red, like droplets of blood, though I knew it was...May 2018•408 pages
