Books matching: complex web of secrets
32 result(s)
- #1
Save:A Dark-Adapted Eye by Barbara Vine is a psychological mystery that delves into a family's dark secrets and the repercussions of a murder committed by Aunt Vera. The story is narrated from the perspective of Faith Severn, the niece of the murderer, as she uncovers the twisted motives and hidden truths behind the tragic events. The writing style is described as dense and atmospheric, capturing the upper crust snobbishness of the characters while slowly unraveling a complex web of jealousy, madness, and family dynamics.
On the morning Vera died I woke up very early. The birds had started, more of them and singing more loudly in our leafy suburb than in the country. They never sang like that outside Vera's windows in ... - #2
Save:"The Quincunx" by Charles Palliser is a sprawling Victorian-style mystery novel set in 19th century London. The story follows young John Huffman as he navigates a complex web of secrets, coincidences, and revelations while trying to uncover his family history and potentially claim his inheritance. The plot is intricate and convoluted, with rich period details seamlessly woven into the narrative, making it a highly absorbing read that keeps the reader engaged till the end.
Palliser's writing style has been compared to that of Charles Dickens, with meticulous attention to detail and evocative descriptions of London and its inhabitants. The novel is dense, detailed, and rewarding, offering readers a glimpse into the hard life of the time, from hidden secrets and family mysteries to encounters with both high and low society in the bustling city of London.
It must have been late autumn of that year, and probably it was towards dusk for the sake of being less conspicuous. And yet a meeting between two professional gentlemen representing the chief branche... - #3
Save:"The Perfect Stranger" by Megan Miranda follows Leah Stevens, a former journalist starting over as a teacher, who becomes entangled in a mysterious disappearance when her roommate Emmy goes missing and seems to have never existed. As Leah delves into the investigation, she uncovers twists and turns that keep the reader engaged. The plot is filled with suspense, secrets, and past lives, making it a compelling thriller with intriguing characters and unexpected plot twists. The writing style is described as fast-paced, engaging, and full of layers that keep readers guessing until the end.
Character, Emmy called it, the quirks that came with the house: the nonexistent water pressure in the shower; the illogical layout. From the front porch, our house had large sliding glass doors that l... - #4
Save:In "Elevator Pitch" by Linwood Barclay, a series of deadly elevator accidents in New York City sets off a chain of events involving a detective, a journalist, and the mayor's office as they race to uncover the truth behind the mysterious incidents. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, keeping readers on edge as they delve into the complex web of secrets, motivations, and interconnected characters. Barclay's writing style expertly builds tension and suspense, leading to a climactic conclusion that surprises and captivates readers.
This was a TV event, really. Get the mayor walking out of City Hall, lob a few questions his way, get video of him denying everything. The Times, the Daily News, the Post could all write their stories... Midnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore is a mystery novel that follows Lydia, a bookseller who is drawn into a complex web of secrets and mysteries after a customer commits suicide in the bookstore. The story unfolds as Lydia unravels the connections between the suicide, her own past, and a chilling murder case from years ago. The book features a multi-perspective narrative, intricate plotlines, and well-developed characters, all set against the backdrop of a bookstore filled with hidden messages cleverly coded into the books.
Lydia heard the distant flap of paper wings as the first book fell from its shelf. She glanced up from the register, head tilted, and imagined that a sparrow had flown through an open window again and...- #6
Save:Journalist Martin Scarsden is dispatched to the small town of Riversend one year after a mass shooting to report on the town's recovery. As he investigates the murders of two backpackers, he uncovers a complex web of secrets and mysteries within the community. The book weaves together various contemporary threads, including Martin's own PTSD, the town's tragic history, and the ambiguity surrounding the town's name. The story is set in a drought-ridden outback town, where the heat and desolation play a significant role in shaping the events.
The plot of 'Scrublands' is filled with twists and turns, revealing unexpected connections and motivations behind the characters' actions. The book delves into themes of journalism, crime, and small-town dynamics, offering a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged. The writing style evokes a vivid sense of place, with detailed descriptions of the setting and well-developed characters that add depth to the story.
MARTIN SCARSDEN STOPS THE CAR ON THE BRIDGE LEADING INTO TOWN, LEAVING the engine running. It’s a single-lane bridge—no overtaking, no passing—built decades ago, the timber milled from local river red... - #7
Save:The Short Drop by Matthew FitzSimmons is a thrilling mystery centered around the disappearance of Suzanne Lombard, the daughter of a powerful politician. Gibson Vaughn, a former hacker and friend of Suzanne, is enlisted to help uncover the truth about her vanishing. The plot unfolds with political intrigue, cyber intelligence, and suspense, as Gibson delves into a complex web of secrets and conspiracies surrounding Suzanne's case. The writing style is described as fast-paced, compelling, and filled with twists that keep the reader engaged until the very end.
Gibson Vaughn sat alone at the bustling counter of the Nighthawk Diner. The breakfast rush was in full swing as customers milled about, waiting for a seat. Gibson barely registered the crescendo of kn... - #8
Save:Boredom leads Lizzie Aitchison to abandon her friends at a wedding party and meet John Smith, an attractive older man who assumes she is a high-class call girl. Despite the initial misunderstanding, they form a connection that leads to a thrilling erotic night and a decision to continue their relationship. As Lizzie plays along with the charade of being an experienced call girl to spend more time with John, they navigate a complex web of secrets and desires. The story unfolds with a mix of passionate encounters, unexpected twists, and a hint of suspense, keeping readers hooked on the evolving dynamics between the characters.
The Accidental Call Girl by Portia Da Costa presents a tale of forbidden attraction, mistaken identities, and hidden desires. Through a blend of scorching hot sex scenes, well-drawn characters, and a touch of light BDSM, the author crafts a narrative that balances steamy romance with elements of suspense and emotional depth. As Lizzie and John navigate their unconventional relationship, readers are drawn into a world where passion collides with secrets, leading to a captivating journey of self-discovery and unexpected revelations.
He looked like a god, the man sitting at the end of the bar did. Really. The glow from the down-lighter just above him made his blond hair look like a halo, and it was the most breath-taking effect. L... - #9
Save:'Deadly Little Scandals' is a captivating sequel that delves deeper into the world of Southern High Society, following Sawyer and her friends as they navigate a season filled with secrets, scandals, and mysteries. The story intricately weaves together multiple timelines, unveiling a complex web of interconnected mysteries and lies. As Sawyer and her friends become entangled in the secrets of an elite secret society called the White Gloves, they must confront their pasts and unravel the truth behind long-buried secrets.
The book is praised for its addictive and campy dramatic goodness, engaging writing style, and well-rounded characters. With a focus on family dynamics, intricate plot twists, and a fast-paced narrative, 'Deadly Little Scandals' keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they try to piece together the intricate puzzle of mysteries and deceit that unfold throughout the story.
There was a point in my life when the question Aunt Olivia had just called down the stairs would have struck me as odd. Now it didn’t even merit the slightest raise of my eyebrow. Of course the family...
(Also, see 88 recommendations for the series Debutantes ) - #10
Save:"The Club Dumas" by Arturo Perez-Reverte is an intellectual mystery that delves into the world of rare book collectors, thieves, and forgers. The plot follows Lucas Corso, a book collector hired to authenticate a rare chapter of The Three Musketeers and to locate two other copies of an occult book, The Nine Doors. As Corso delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding these books, he finds himself entangled in a complex web of secrets, codes, and ancient manuscripts. The writing style of the book is described as rich, dense, and historical, with intricate details and a mix of historical facts and literary interpretations that add depth to the narrative.
My name is Boris Balkan and I once translated The Charterhouse of Parma. Apart from that, I’ve edited a few books on the nineteenth-century popular novel, my reviews and articles appear in supplements...
