Books matching: complex political intrigues
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- #1
Save: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... - #2
Save: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 ... - #3
Save: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 ) - #4
Save:The Traitor Baru Cormorant is an epic geopolitical fantasy about one woman's mission to tear down an empire by learning how to rule it. The protagonist, Baru Cormorant, grows up in the Republic of Masks after her homeland is peacefully annexed and she aims to become powerful enough politically to overthrow the empire. The plot is filled with political intrigue, complex characters, and a strong female protagonist navigating a world of deceit and manipulation. The writing style is described as realistic fantasy with no magic, focusing on scheming, politicking, and characters, while exploring themes of imperialism, gender roles, and power struggles.
The Masquerade sent its favorite soldiers to conquer Taranoke: sailcloth, dyes, glazed ceramic, sealskin and oils, paper currency printed in their Falcrest tongue. Little Baru, playing castles in the ... - #5
Save:The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie is a dark fantasy novel that delves into a world filled with political intrigue, impending war, and morally ambiguous characters. Set in a medieval-like world, the story follows multiple characters such as Logen Ninefingers, Inquisitor Glokta, and Captain Luthar, each with their own unique perspectives and motivations. The plot weaves together their stories as they navigate through a world on the brink of change, with war looming and alliances shifting. Abercrombie's writing style is characterized by its gritty realism, grounded characters, and a focus on the inner thoughts and struggles of the protagonists.
Logen opened his eyes a crack. Light, blurry bright through leaves. This was death? Then why did it hurt so much? His whole left side was throbbing. He tried to take a proper breath, choked, coughed u... - #6
Save:In an alternate version of Europe, descendants of angels have created a unique society where their primary mandate in life is to love as thou wilt. Jacqueline Carey's writing style, while slightly wordy, is very lyrical, and the subject of sex is prominently dealt with both practically and philosophically in this society. The book follows Phedre's journey, a courtesan gifted with the ability to feel pleasure as pain, as she navigates political intrigue and her complex relationship with her protector, Joscelin.
Lest anyone should suppose that I am a cuckoo’s child, got on the wrong side of the blanket by lusty peasant stock and sold into indenture in a shortfallen season, I may say that I am House-born and r... - #7
Save:'The Way of Kings' in 'The Stormlight Archive' series by Brandon Sanderson is an epic fantasy novel that introduces readers to a world filled with unique magic systems, intricate world-building, and deep character development. The plot revolves around multiple main characters, each with their own complex storylines that eventually intertwine. The magic system in the book is innovative and tied to gems that capture stormlight, which powers magical armor and various other elements in the world. The writing style is described as engaging, with a mix of slow-paced world-building and action-packed sequences that keep readers hooked throughout the 1000+ pages of the book.
“You’ve killed me. Bastards, you’ve killed me! While the sun is still hot, I die!” —Collected on the fifth day of the week Chach of the month Betab of the year 1171, ten seconds before death. Subject ... - #8
Save:Set in an alternative future where the Ottoman Empire rules the world, 'Pashazade' is the first part of the Arabesk trilogy by Jon Courtenay Grimwood. The story follows Asref Bey, who finds himself in El Iskandryia, Alexandria, summoned by his aunt to marry a cousin he has never met. When he refuses and his aunt dies, Asref is thrust into a world of political intrigue and mystery, struggling to navigate a society with advanced technology and aristocratic power. The plot is driven by the setting, offering a fresh take on a familiar story with intertwined flashbacks that delve into Asref's past and future.
The writing style of 'Pashazade' has been described as fast-paced, elegant, and fun, with a cyberpunk veneer overlaying the exotic setting of El Iskandryia. Readers have praised the book for its convoluted mystery, cultural clash, and intricate plotlines that keep them engaged throughout the narrative.
The sound of fountains came in stereo. A deep splash from the courtyard below and a lighter trickle from the next room, where open arches cut in a wall overlooking the courtyard had marble balustrades... - #9
Save:'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 ) - #10
Save: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 ...
