Books matching: complex and unlikable characters
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- #1
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... - #2
'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... - #3
'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... - #4
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.
- #5
"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 ... - #6
'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... - #7
'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 ... - #8
The Blindfold by Siri Hustvedt is a postmodern novel that follows the story of a young woman named Iris in New York City as she navigates through various surreal and unsettling experiences. The book is told in distinct sections presented out of chronological order, where Iris is hired to study objects belonging to a deceased person, has a strange photo taken that seems to morph into other photos, endures a stay in a mental ward, and has an affair with a professor. The narrative explores themes of identity, mental health, and the dark and enigmatic encounters Iris has with different characters in the city.
Sometimes even now I think I see him in the street or standing in a window or bent over a book in a coffee shop. And in that instant, before I understand that it’s someone else, my lungs tighten and I... - #9
'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... - #10
'The Death of Artemio Cruz' by Carlos Fuentes is a complex narrative that delves into the life of Artemio Cruz, a wealthy and influential man on his deathbed. The story is told through a series of non-chronological flashbacks and stream of consciousness reflections, providing insights into Cruz's various personas and his impact on Mexican history. Fuentes skillfully weaves together Cruz's personal journey with the broader context of Mexican society, exploring themes of power, corruption, love, and mortality.
The book's narrative structure, characterized by disjointed anecdotes and shifting perspectives, offers a unique portrayal of Cruz's life and the historical backdrop of Mexico from 1900 to 1960. Fuentes employs elements of magical realism and stream of consciousness writing to create a multi-layered story that challenges readers to engage with complex themes and characters, ultimately painting a vivid picture of Cruz's tumultuous existence and his enduring legacy.
He was on his way to the office. The chauffeur drove, and he read the newspaper. Traffic stopped; he raised his eyes. He saw the two ladies enter the shop. Squinting, he watched them, and then the car...