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Books matching: complex political intrigue

100 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    Sins of Empire - Gods of Blood and Powder by Brian McClellan
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    Sins of Empire by Brian McClellan is a fantasy novel set in a world where magic and technology coexist, resembling Europe in the late 18th century. The story follows multiple characters, including Powder mage Vlora Flint, legendary general Mad Ben Styke, and spy Michael Bravis, each with their own motivations and roles in the unfolding plot. The narrative is rich in political intrigue, large-scale battles, and the mysterious Godstone, gradually revealing its significance as the story progresses. The book seamlessly weaves together elements of fantasy, mystery, and action, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

    The plot of Sins of Empire revolves around the discovery of ancient relics of immense power, the arrival of a secretive fleet from a neighboring nation, and the political tensions within the city of Landfall. As characters like Mad Ben Styke seek vengeance and justice, and Michael Bravis uncovers secrets while navigating dangerous waters, the story builds towards a thrilling and explosive conclusion. McClellan's writing style expertly blends world-building, character development, and intricate plot twists, offering a fresh and engaging entry into the Gods of Blood and Powder series.

    Michel Bravis stood in the doorway of a small Kressian chapel, sipping cold morning coffee while he watched Palo fishermen pass him in the street, their early haul hanging from long poles balanced on ...

  2. #2

    Revenant Gun - The Machineries of Empire by Yoon Ha Lee
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    'Revenant Gun' by Yoon Ha Lee is the final volume in 'The Machineries of Empire' series, continuing the military space opera that began with 'Ninefox Gambit'. The disruption of the high calendar sets the stage for the plot, involving political intrigue, complex machinations, and the struggle for power within the Hexarchate universe. The novel delves into themes of memory loss, political upheaval, and the consequences of technological warfare and biotechnology in a fantastical world.

    The narrative unfolds through multiple viewpoints, exploring the characters' relationships, histories, and the intricate web of alliances and betrayals. The writing style is described as pedagogical, descriptive, and filled with elements of poetry, wonder, humor, and political complexity, characteristic of the series. The story culminates in a satisfying conclusion, hinting at potential future developments in the universe created by Yoon Ha Lee.


    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Machineries of Empire )

  3. #3
    Lord of Chaos
    Book 6 in the series:The Wheel of Time

    Lord of Chaos - The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan
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    Lord of Chaos, the sixth book in The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan, delves into the intricate web of plots and characters as the saga unfolds. The book follows Rand al'Thor as he navigates political intrigue and battles against the Dark One's emissaries, the Chosen and the Aes Sedai. Split into two camps, the Aes Sedai create tension and power struggles within their ranks, leading to a showdown at the end of the book. With multiple plot threads and character developments, the book presents a mix of slow-building tension and explosive revelations, culminating in a gripping finale that propels the story forward.

    The Wheel of Time turns, and Ages come and pass, leaving memories that become legend. Legend fades to myth, and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth comes again. In one Age, cal...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Wheel of Time )

  4. #4
    Shadow Fall
    Book 1 in the series:Shadow Fall

    Shadow Fall - Shadow Fall by Audrey Grey
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    'Shadow Fall' by Audrey Grey is a dystopian novel set in a harsh and divided world where the protagonist, Maia, fights for survival amidst mass destruction. The book showcases an intriguing concept of reconstruction and the struggle to maintain one's identity in a world filled with danger and uncertainty. The author, Audrey Grey, skillfully creates a complex world filled with well-developed characters and moments that offer hope for a better future, leaving readers captivated and eager to discover what comes next.

    I carve another useless handful of dirt from my tomb. It’s a wasted effort. There’s no way I can claw myself out of the pit beneath Rhine Prison. Even if my hands are forged from the strong metalworki...

  5. #5
    The Butlerian Jihad
    Book 11 in the series:Dune

    The Butlerian Jihad - Dune by Brian Herbert
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    The Butlerian Jihad is a prequel to the Dune series, delving into the past of the Dune universe and exploring the events leading up to the rebellion against the heartless thinking machines. The book introduces readers to a vast universe filled with complex characters, Galactic battles, and intricate political dynamics. The story follows key figures like Serena Butler, Vorian, and Tio Holtzman as they navigate the last stronghold of free humanity, the League of Nobles, and the fledgling exploitation of the spice Melange from Arrakis. The writing style is described as enthralling, with short, numerous chapters that make the story impossible to put down.

    Before one can understand Muad’Dib or the current jihad that followed the overthrow of my father, Emperor Shaddam IV, one must understand what we fight against. Therefore, look more than ten thousand ...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dune )

  6. #6

    The Assassins of Tamurin by S.D. Tower
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    "The Assassins of Tamurin" by S.D. Tower follows the story of Lale, an orphan girl who is trained as a spy and assassin. As she is sent to watch and eventually kill the Sun Lord, she finds herself falling in love with him, leading to a test of her loyalty. The book is set in a well-written fantasy world with elements of magic, romance, and political intrigue. The plot unfolds as Lale navigates between her duty as an assassin and her growing feelings for her target, ultimately questioning her allegiance and facing the consequences of her decisions.

    The people of my village cast me out when I was eleven. Or at least I believed I was eleven, for neither I nor anyone in Riversong knew the day or place of my birth, much less who brought me into the ...

  7. #7
    The Liar's Knot
    Book 2 in the series:Rook & Rose

    The Liar's Knot - Rook & Rose by M.A. Carrick
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    The Liar's Knot by M.A. Carrick is the second book in the Rook & Rose series, continuing the intricate dance of Ren, Vargo, and the rest of the cast as they navigate new alliances, friendships, loves, dangers, and lies. The story delves deeper into the mystery, corruption, and characters in Nadezra, with a seamless integration of a complex magic system that challenges readers to unravel the realm on the brink of ruin.

    The world building in The Liar's Knot is all-encompassing, transporting readers to a vividly realized world of magic and intrigue. The plot is as intricate as in the first book, with many different threads and secrets waiting to be revealed, making it a captivating and immersive read that leaves readers wanting more.


    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Rook & Rose )

  8. #8

    Lord of Snow and Shadows - Tears of Artamon by Sarah Ash
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    In a world vaguely Russian during the early 20th century, the book 'Lord of Snow and Shadows' by Sarah Ash follows the story of Gavril, a young artist who discovers his true heritage after his father's death, inheriting a baleful spirit that grants immense power at a ghastly price. The plot weaves together elements of shamanism, political intrigue, and conflicting powers of magic and technology, creating a complex narrative with multiple viewpoints and surprising plot twists. The writing style is described as competently written, with a clear, brisk prose full of detail, set in a unique world inspired by Russia and featuring 18th-century technology, ghosts, and a mix of dark and light passions.

    Gavril Andar looked up from unpacking his oil paints and saw Altessa Astasia Orlova in the doorway. She was dressed for her portrait in a plain muslin dress of eggshell blue, her cloud of dark hair ti...

  9. #9

    Angel with the Sword - Merovingen Nights by C.J. Cherryh
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    Angel with the Sword by C.J. Cherryh is a standalone novel set in a rich and atmospheric world where political intrigue and danger lurk around every corner. The story follows Altair Jones, a canaler who saves a high-born man from drowning and finds herself drawn into a complex game of political intrigue that puts her in dangerous waters. The plot is compelling, with a tough, funny, and self-aware heroine navigating through a world filled with warring religious factions and societal divides.

    The book is described as a sword and sailing fantasy set in a Venice-like city state during the Renaissance, filled with politics, guns, and intricate world-building. The writing style is praised for its detailed descriptions, well-crafted plot, and the ability to draw readers into a world of canals, bridges, and mysterious characters.

    NOW in all the world there were above a hundred cities; which was a good deal better world than the Ancestors had left. There was the heptapolis of the Chattalen strung up and down the Black Sea like ...

  10. #10

    The Fragile Threads of Power - Shades of Magic by V.E. Schwab
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    The Fragile Threads of Power is a captivating continuation of the Shades of Magic series by V.E. Schwab, seamlessly blending existing characters with new ones. The story unfolds across three separate worlds, following multiple characters and storylines that eventually converge, offering a mix of magic, fantasy, and intricate world-building that keeps readers engaged until the very end.


    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Shades of Magic )

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