Books matching: complex world of darkness
52 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:'Dogs of God' by Pinckney Benedict is a 354-page novel filled with literary artistry, revolving around the lives of twenty disparate characters drawn together in a vortex of evil related to the illicit drug trade in an old mountain resort called El Dorado. The plot is intricate, leading the young bare-knuckle boxer, Goody, through events that take him into an Appalachian heart of darkness, with a final pronouncement that leaves readers questioning the nature of the Earth and the reality of the ending.
The writing style of 'Dogs of God' is described as a blend of traditional storytelling and attempts to reach a deeper level, with a lyrical and muscular type of prose that can act like a punch in the nose. The book is likened to the works of Cormac McCarthy, Frank Bill, and Donald Ray Pollock, with a flavor similar to 'No Country for Old Men,' keeping readers engaged and up late at night, although the central plot and theme may be deep and challenging to fully grasp by some readers.
- #2
Save:'Raphael' in the series 'Deadly Virtues' by Tillie Cole is a dark and intense story that follows the character Raphael, a member of the Fallen Brotherhood who has a twisted past filled with abuse and darkness. When he meets Maria, a nun-in-training who agrees to help the Brethren as her final test, their worlds collide in a tale of healing, sacrifice, and love. The plot unfolds in a dark and violent setting, exploring themes of redemption, complex relationships, and the impact of past traumas on the characters.
The writing style of 'Raphael' is described as poetic yet not overly flowery, with a focus on emotional depth and rawness. The characters are portrayed as complex and multi-dimensional, each with their own dark pasts and inner struggles. The story delves into the depths of human emotions, showcasing the journey of Raphael and Maria as they navigate their twisted connection amidst a backdrop of darkness and violence.
The loud clang of the bell broke through Maria’s sleep. Hymns sung by the sisters walking the hallways drifted under the gap at the bottom of the door. It was still dark outside, the Massachusetts win...
(Also, see 22 recommendations for the series Deadly Virtues ) - #3
Save:'Attack on Titan, Vol. 1' by Hajime Isayama is a gripping tale of humanity's struggle for survival against colossal humanoid monsters known as Titans. Set in a world besieged by these creatures, the story follows the journey of Eren Yeager, a young boy determined to eradicate the Titans after they destroy his hometown and devour his mother. The narrative unfolds with a masterful blend of suspense, intrigue, and emotional depth, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as secrets and revelations challenge the characters' understanding of themselves and their world. The world of Attack on Titan is shrouded in mystery, with the true nature of the Titans, the origins of their existence, and the motivations behind their relentless attacks remaining enigmatic.
Enter Eren Jaeger, a protagonist driven by a burning desire for vengeance and a deep-seated belief in humanity's potential. Alongside his companions, including his adopted sister Mikasa and their friend Armin, Eren navigates a world where humanity hides behind massive walls to protect themselves from the Titans. The narrative explores themes of courage, determination, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable reading experience.
- #4
Save:The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt follows the life of Theo Decker, a boy whose life is shattered when a terrorist bombing at an art gallery in New York kills his mother. Theo survives the tragedy and leaves the museum with a priceless painting, The Goldfinch, which becomes a central element in his life. The novel explores Theo's journey from boyhood to adulthood, navigating themes of loss, trauma, unrequited love, art theft, drug addiction, and the complexities of human relationships. The story is narrated through Theo's perspective, offering a deep dive into his emotional turmoil and struggles as he grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy.
The narrative style of The Goldfinch is characterized by rich, detailed prose that vividly describes various settings, from the aftermath of a bombing in an art museum to the backwaters of Las Vegas and the high society of New York City. The novel weaves together a complex tapestry of characters, including pretentious and unrealistic figures, intriguing New York personalities, and Theo's enigmatic friend Boris. As Theo's life unfolds amidst a series of challenges and encounters, the painting of The Goldfinch serves as a symbolic thread connecting his past, present, and future, shaping his identity and moral dilemmas.
WHILE I WASSTILL in Amsterdam, I dreamed about my mother for the first time in years. I’d been shut up in my hotel for more than a week, afraid to telephone anybody or go out; and my heart scrambled a... - #5
Save:'The Bloody Chamber' by Angela Carter is a collection of dark and sensual retellings of classic fairy tales with a gothic and feminist twist. Carter's writing style is described as beautifully crafted, evocative, and rich in imagery, bringing new life to familiar stories like Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast, and Bluebeard. The stories explore themes of sexuality, agency of women, and the darker aspects of human nature, creating a complex and compelling fantasy world.
The book features ten adult adaptations of fairy tales, each with a macabre and feminist undertone. Carter's storytelling is praised for its unique voice, strong connections between tales, and its feminist reinterpretation of traditional themes. The collection is a blend of reimagined myths and original stories, challenging the reader to explore a more nuanced and morally complex version of fairy tales.
- #6
Save:'The Riddle-Master of Hed' by Patricia A. McKillip is the first installment in the Riddle-Master trilogy. It follows the journey of Morgon, the prince of Hed, who embarks on a quest to uncover the mysteries surrounding the three stars on his forehead and his destined role in the world. The story is set in a richly imagined world filled with magic, riddles, and complex characters. The writing style is described as ethereal and dreamy, with a mix of dialogue and narrative that seamlessly transitions between different tones and modes, keeping readers engaged and intrigued.
Morgon of Hed met the High One’s harpist one autumn day when the trade-ships docked at Tol for the season’s exchange of goods. A small boy caught sight of the round-hulled ships with their billowing s... - #7
Save:'The Five Trials' is a fantasy adventure novel following Noah Kilmartin, an average guy from Ruddock Ohio, who unexpectedly finds himself chosen as the 10th Savior to save the universe. The story revolves around Noah and his battle harem facing five mystical trials in the realm called Bastion, each trial presenting unique challenges and characters. The book combines elements of fantasy, harem adventure, and Eastern mysticism, with vividly drawn characters and intense scenes that keep readers engaged.
The plot unfolds with Noah navigating through the fallen spheres, confronting the forces of evil, and striving to bring harmony to the universe. As Noah progresses through the trials, his character development is evident, transforming from an ordinary guy to a potential hero, facing both physical and moral challenges. The book offers a mix of action, humor, tenderness, and steamy scenes, all woven together in a well-crafted narrative that keeps readers wanting to know what happens next.
- #8
Save:Gideon the Ninth is a fantasy sci-fi novel about lesbian necromancers entangled in a Battle Royale cum murder mystery in a haunted mansion in space. The book follows the irrepressibly snarky goth jock lead, Gideon, through action sequences that could rival the best of shounen anime. Despite a hand-wavy world-building at times, the extremely metal plot turns and great ending keep readers hooked. The storytelling style is described as a new level of reading, encouraging readers to give it a try, especially through the audio version for better comprehension.
IN THE MYRIADIC YEAR OF OURLORD—the ten thousandth year of the King Undying, the kindly Prince of Death!—Gideon Nav packed her sword, her shoes, and her dirty magazines, and she escaped from the House... - #9
Save:Thomas Cale, a young acolyte raised by the Redeemers at the Sanctuary of Slotover, is trained to be a soldier in a brutal and unforgiving environment. After witnessing a horrific act, Cale escapes with two friends and a girl, setting off a chain of events that could lead to war. The book follows Cale's journey as he navigates a world filled with religious zealots, secret societies, and the struggle to find his own identity amidst the chaos. The writing style is described as engaging, with a mix of fantasy elements and references to familiar places that blur the lines between reality and imagination.
Listen. The Sanctuary of the Redeemers on Shotover Scarp is named after a damned lie, for there is no redemption that goes on there and less sanctuary. The country around it is full of scrub and spind... - #10
Save:'Midnight Tides' in the 'Malazan Book of the Fallen' series by Steven Erikson is a tale of two sets of brothers, the Sengar family and the Beddict brothers, embroiled in a story of power, greed, brotherhood, and tragic endings. The book introduces a new cast of characters in a different continent, focusing on the conflict between the Tiste Edur and the Letherii, highlighting themes of expansion, family loyalty, and the clash between different cultures. The writing style, characterized by intricate storytelling, vast world-building, and multiple viewpoints, immerses readers in a complex narrative that unfolds with epic battles, intrigue, and unexpected twists.
Here, then, is the tale. Between the swish of the tides, when giants knelt down and became mountains. When they fell scattered on the land like the ballast stones of the sky, yet could not hold fast a...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Malazan Book of the Fallen )
