Books matching: compelling antagonist
54 result(s)
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- #1Adamby:
Save:'Adam' by Ted Dekker follows the story of an FBI agent named Daniel Clark who is on the hunt for a serial killer named Eve. The plot delves into the dark world of demon possession, near-death experiences, and the battle between good and evil. The writing style is described as fast-paced, suspenseful, and mind-twisting, with unexpected plot twists and vivid descriptions that keep the reader engaged.
A HOT, STICKY EVENING in Los Angeles. Outside, the city was clogged with traffic and a million souls fighting their way through another rush hour, preoccupied with bloated mortgage payments and imposs... - #2
Save:'Intensity' by Dean Koontz is a fast-paced thriller that follows the story of Chyna Shepherd, a strong and resilient female protagonist who finds herself in a terrifying situation after witnessing a gruesome crime against her best friend. As she tries to save her friend, Chyna becomes entangled with a psychotic killer named Edgler Foreman Vess, leading to a high-stakes game of survival. The novel is described as intense and suspenseful, with a gripping plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The author's writing style is noted for its descriptive and sometimes morbid language, creating a chilling atmosphere throughout the story.
The red sun balances on the highest ramparts of the mountains, and in its waning light, the foothills appear to be ablaze. A cool breeze blows down out of the sun and fans through the tall dry grass, ... - #3
Save:'Thornfruit' in 'The Gardener's Hand' series by Felicia Davin is a fantasy novel that introduces readers to a diverse coastal city in a Middle Eastern-influenced fantasy world. The book features a unique world where there is no night, only day, and explores the lives of characters like Ev and Alizhan who find themselves entangled in a web of lace spun by the mysterious Iriyat. The plot is driven by themes of exploration, self-discovery, friendship, and morality, while also delving into questions about love, prejudice, and the justification of actions. The book is praised for its clever and deft worldbuilding, creating a setting that is both intriguing and captivating, leaving readers eager for more.
WHEN EV was three years old, a wave had crashed into the cliffs of Laalvur. As the flood waters had drained from the lower city back into the ocean, they’d left a giant dead medusa speared on the spli... - #4
Save:The Bishop's Heir by Katherine Kurtz is a historical fantasy novel set in a world where kings, armies, and the church are deeply intertwined in politics. The story follows King Kelson, along with his friends Morgan and Duncan, as they navigate through a world filled with magical talents, political intrigue, and complex relationships. The book lays the groundwork for a larger tale, leaving readers with many questions and a desire for more knowledge of the characters and their world.
Katherine Kurtz's writing style is described as detailed and immersive, with well-fleshed out characters and intricate worldbuilding. The plot revolves around the conflicts between the Church and the State, as well as the struggles of the Deryni minority group with supernatural powers. The story is filled with political maneuvering, dramatic moments, and a slow-burning romance between King Kelson and Sidana, a Princess of the Mearan separatists, leading to a dramatic and unexpected conclusion that defies typical fantasy conventions.
The Bishop of Meara was dead. In more stable times, that fact might have elicited little more than academic interest on the part of Duke Alaric Morgan, for his duchy of Corwyn lay far on the other sid... - #5
Save:"Occultist" in the series "Saga Online" by author Oliver Mayes is a LitRPG novel that seamlessly weaves together the in-game and real-life sections, providing equal importance to both aspects of the story. The main character's journey as an occultist class in the game is praised for its uniqueness and strategic approach to combat. Readers appreciate the well-developed protagonist, Damien, who is portrayed as a relatable underdog with a strong sense of honor despite his theoretically evil character class. is commended for addressing common issues seen in LitRPG books, such as setting real-world stakes for the protagonist and creating believable character motivations.
Damien withdrew from the once cultist infested cave, only to find his fate was sealed. Through a gap in the trees he could see the sun lazily blending with the peaks of the far distant mountains. If h... - #6
Save:In 'Nightwoods' by Charles Frazier, the story revolves around Luce, a reclusive custodian of a decaying lodge in the mountains of rural southern United States. Her secluded life is disrupted when she becomes the guardian of her mute niece and nephew, who witnessed their mother's murder. The plot unfolds into a captivating tale of misfits, crime, family ties, and love, set against a harsh and hostile environment. The narrative skillfully weaves together elements of survival, strength, and the healing power of nature, while gradually revealing the characters' pasts to give context to their current situations.
The landscape of the Appalachian region plays a significant role in the story, acting as a character in itself. The author, Charles Frazier, creates a tense and foreboding atmosphere through his descriptive language, drawing readers into the world of Luce and the other characters. The book explores themes of isolation, resilience, and the impact of past traumas on the present, all while painting a vivid picture of the natural beauty that surrounds the characters.
LUCE’S NEW STRANGER CHILDREN were small and beautiful and violent. She learned early that it wasn’t smart to leave them unattended in the yard with the chickens. Later she’d find feathers, a scaled ye... - #7
Save:Devil's Creek by Todd Keisling is a horror novel that delves into the dark themes of religion, cults, and the consequences of small-town beliefs. The story follows the town of Stauford, Kentucky, where a secluded religious cult once worshipped an evil God underground. As the past of the cult resurfaces, the characters, including the Stauford Six who suffered under the cult leader Jacob Masters, must confront the trauma and evil that threatens to engulf the town once again. The writing style of the book is described as detailed and immersive, drawing readers into the eerie atmosphere of the story with vivid descriptions and impactful scenes.
The sun hung low along the western horizon, painting the forest with fractured orange flames, and Imogene Tremly knew in her heart the minister would be dead before it rose again. She’d prayed for thi... - #8
Save:In 'Kingdom of the Feared,' readers are taken back to the Seven Circles, exploring the various houses of sin with vivid writing and descriptions that bring the world to life. The book delves into answering long-standing questions from the previous volumes, introducing intriguing plot twists and revelations early on. The story follows Emilia's journey to break curses while navigating complex relationships and political intrigues among the sinful brothers.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Kingdom of the Wicked ) - #9
Save:In "The Kill List" by Frederick Forsyth, readers are introduced to a new protagonist, Kit Carson, an American US Marine working for a secret agency tasked with neutralizing a dangerous terrorist known as The Preacher. As the story unfolds, Carson must navigate through a complex web of international terrorism, political risks, and a personal mission to stop The Preacher before he carries out his next gruesome act. Forsyth's writing style in this novel is characterized by a meticulous, step-by-step process of tracking down the villain and a focus on the technical aspects of espionage and military operations.
- #10
Save:Grace Lawson finds a mysterious photograph mixed in with her own photographs, then her husband disappears, possibly kidnapped, and Grace is forced to explore his, and her own, past, to try and save him. The story unfolds with a fast-paced plot, full of twists and turns, leading Grace through a suspenseful journey of uncovering secrets and confronting unexpected challenges. Harlan Coben's writing style is described as gripping, keeping the readers on edge with its suspenseful narrative and intricate character development.
There are sudden rips. There are tears in your life, deep knife wounds that slash through your flesh. Your life is one thing, then it is shredded into another. It comes apart as though gutted in a bel...
