Books matching: complex and unlikable characters
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:A binge-worthy, atmospheric whodunit that cleverly keeps you guessing - ideal for fans of modern, character-driven mysteries (though the twists and structure aren't for everyone).
'The Guest List' by Lucy Foley is a suspenseful thriller set on a remote Irish island where a wedding turns deadly. The plot unfolds through multiple character perspectives, revealing secrets, lies, and motives for murder. The writing style is described as engaging, with a fluid timeline, clever plotting, and a gripping atmosphere reminiscent of Big Little Lies.
In an instant, everything is in darkness. The band stop their playing. Inside the marquee the wedding guests squeal and clutch at one another. The light from the candles on the tables only adds to the...March 2020•344 pages - #2
Save:A wickedly entertaining collection that's clever, creepy, and irresistibly weird - classic Dahl for grown-ups who like their short stories with a sting in the tail.
'Kiss Kiss' by Roald Dahl is a collection of 11 short stories that delve into the dark and macabre, often with unexpected twists. The writing style is described as crisp, surprising, and smoothly written, with a touch of British black humor. Each story starts innocently but ends with a chilling or eccentric conclusion, leaving the reader both entertained and slightly unsettled. Dahl's unique storytelling perspective shines through in these tales of the unusual, reminiscent of stories one might expect to find in 'Twilight Zone'.
Billy Weaver had travelled down from London on the slow afternoon train, with a change at Swindon on the way, and by the time he got to Bath it was about nine o’clock in the evening and the moon was c...June 1959•308 pages - #3
Save:A cleverly plotted, slow-burn thriller packed with dark twists and bookish intrigue. It’s a wild ride that’s worth sticking with if you like your thrillers smart and a bit wicked.
Florence Darrow, an aspiring writer, finds herself working as an assistant to the mysterious novelist Maud Dixon, whose true identity is a secret. The story unfolds as they travel to Morocco for research purposes, but a car accident changes everything. The plot twists and turns, revealing dark and snarky elements, with a cat-and-mouse game between the characters. The narrative is immersive, building tension and suspense until the unexpected denouement.
The book delves into themes of identity, ambition, deception, and the dark side of the publishing industry. It follows Florence's journey of self-discovery and manipulation, set against the backdrop of intriguing literary references and atmospheric settings like Morocco and New York.
Both women worked as editorial assistants at Forrester Books, and tonight was the office holiday party, held every year on the second floor of a dark bar called The Library, where the theme was litera...March 2021•357 pages - #4
Save:In "Perfidious Albion" by Sam Byers, the plot revolves around the residents of the crumbling Larchwood estate being pressured to leave by Downton and Green for high-tech housing, the struggles of characters like Mr. Darkin and Trina, and the intertwining of technology, politics, and social media in a small English town. The writing style is sharp and detailed, focusing on satire and social commentary, with a mix of contemporary British politics and social media satire reminiscent of a blend between Larry David and Ricky Gervais.
‘I think …’ said Robert, touching the tip of his forefinger momentarily to his lips and frowning down at the floor. ‘I think I just reached a point where I was like, if it’s not now, then I’m not inte...2018•400 pages - #5
Save:A dark, creepy blend of coming-of-age, urban legend, and psychological unraveling. Not perfect, but an atmospheric page-turner for suspense fans who love haunted memories and twisty friendships.
The Dead Girls Club by Damien Angelica Walters is a psychological thriller that follows the story of Heather Cole, a child psychologist haunted by events from her past involving her best friend Becca and the mysterious Red Lady. The book alternates between past and present timelines, exploring the dark secrets of the Dead Girls Club and the consequences of childhood trauma on Heather's adult life. As reminders of the past resurface, Heather is forced to confront her past and unravel the mystery surrounding Becca's death.
The narrative delves into themes of friendship, guilt, paranoia, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. The story intricately weaves together elements of horror, mystery, and psychological suspense, keeping readers on edge as they uncover the chilling truths hidden within the Dead Girls Club.
There’s nothing special about the envelope. Standard #10 size, 24-pound white paper stock, available in any office supply store. My name and address written in capital letters with black ink. Delibera...December 2019 - #6
Save:A solidly crafted, classically styled mystery that’s a little slow to start, but rewarding for fans of clever puzzles and British detective traditions. Not the series’ best, but a must if you want to watch one of crime fiction’s greats evolve from the very beginning.
The first book in the Adam Dalgliesh mystery series by P.D. James, "Cover Her Face," introduces readers to a classic British detective novel set in an English manor house. The story revolves around the murder of Sally Jupp, a young and pretty housemaid who is found strangled in a locked room. Scotland Yard Detective Chief Inspector Adam Dalgliesh is called to investigate the case, which involves a cast of suspects from the Maxi family and their guests. The narrative unfolds with elements of a locked-room mystery, intricate character relationships, and a methodical investigation that delves into the psychology of each character.
P.D. James skillfully crafts a compelling mystery story with well-developed characters and a classic English setting that sets the stage for the series protagonist, Adam Dalgliesh. The book blends elements of an English country house mystery with a police procedural, offering a mix of suspense, intrigue, and character-driven storytelling. Readers are drawn into the intricate web of relationships and secrets within the manor house, as Dalgliesh navigates the complexities of the case while unraveling the truth behind Sally Jupp's murder.
EXACTLY THREE MONTHS before the killing at Martingale Mrs. Maxie gave a dinner party. Years later, when the trial was a half-forgotten scandal and the headlines were yellowing on the newspaper lining...1962•276 pages - #7
Save:An unsettling but gripping psychological thriller that exposes the dark side of ambition and family secrets in the world of elite gymnastics. Not always an easy read, but impossible to look away.
'You Will Know Me' by Megan Abbott is a gripping thriller that delves into the dark and intense world of elite gymnastics competition. The story follows the Knox family, whose lives revolve around their daughter Devon's Olympic aspirations. As tragedy strikes the gymnastics community, secrets and tensions unravel, leading to a mysterious death and a web of deception. The novel explores the sacrifices made by families for athletic success, the toxic dynamics within the gymnastics world, and the blurred lines between ambition and morality. Abbott's writing style creates a sense of impending doom and unease, keeping readers on edge as they navigate through a twisted plot filled with unlikeable characters and unexpected twists.
If she ever had to talk about it, which she never would, Katie would have to go back, back years before it happened. Before Coach T. and Hailey and Ryan Beck. Back before Devon was born, when there we...July 2016•357 pages - #8
Save:It’s a brutal, honest portrait that’s more about bearing witness than offering comfort. Not for everyone, but definitely memorable and thought-provoking - especially if you want fiction that challenges and stays with you.
'The Beans of Egypt, Maine' by Carolyn Chute is a raw and unflinching portrayal of rural poverty, focusing on the hardscrabble lives of the Bean family. The book delves into themes of extreme poverty, questionable relationships, and the harsh realities of life in rural Maine. The writing style is described as matter-of-fact, primitive yet pleasant, and filled with captivating imagery that immerses the reader into the lives of the characters.
The plot of the book follows the multi-generational tribe of hillbillies in rural Maine, showcasing a collection of interrelated short stories that depict the struggles and challenges faced by the Bean clan. The author's closeness to the lifestyle she writes about shines through in the believable portrayal of poverty, ignorance, and the fierce independence that characterizes the Bean family.
WE’VE GOT a ranch house. Daddy built it. Daddy says it’s called RANCH ’cause it’s like houses out West which cowboys sleep in. There’s a picture window in all ranch houses and if you’re in one of ’em...1985•305 pages - #9
Save:A classic, somber tale that digs deep into the burdens of duty and faith - beautifully written, haunting, but decidedly downbeat. If you like literary fiction that asks tough questions and don’t mind a melancholy ride, this one’s for you.
'The Heart of the Matter' by Graham Greene is a psychological novel set in British Colonial West Africa, focusing on Deputy Police Commissioner Scobie and his struggles with love, religion, duty, and morality. The story follows Scobie's descent into crime and corruption as he grapples with personal responsibility and religious faith, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. The book delves into themes of Catholic guilt, existentialist tones, and the complexities of human relationships in a colonial backdrop.
The writing style of 'The Heart of the Matter' is described as graceful, engaging, and eloquent, with vivid descriptions of characters and settings. The narrative skillfully explores internal conflicts, moral dilemmas, and the emotional turmoil of the protagonist, creating a poignant and introspective story that delves into themes of loneliness, despair, and the clash between personal desires and religious obligations.
WILSON sat on the balcony of the Bedford Hotel with his bald pink knees thrust against the ironwork. It was Sunday and the Cathedral bell clanged for matins. On the other side of Bond street, in the w...1948•290 pages - #10
Save:A tense, timely, and unsettling book that lingers with you - perfect for fans of literary suspense who don't mind a few unanswered questions. You'll either love the dread or wish for more clarity!
"Leave the World Behind" by Rumaan Alam follows the story of two families, a white couple with children on vacation and an older Black couple who claim to be the owners of the house they are renting. As a mysterious disaster unfolds in the outside world, the families are left isolated, unsure of what is happening and facing growing unease and dread. The narrative weaves through themes of race, class, and the horror of the unknown, leaving readers questioning the boundaries of safety and the fragility of human existence.
WELL, THE SUN WAS SHINING. THEY FELT THAT BODED WELL—people turn any old thing into an omen. It was all just to say no clouds were to be seen. The sun where the sun always was. The sun persistent and...October 2020•259 pages
