Books matching: confusion and clarity
51 result(s)
- #1
Buried in this massive book are two compelling mysteries: a serial murder case set in New Orleans, Louisiana, and a more personal family drama set in Natchez, Mississippi. The story illustrates well the issues of repressed memory, child abuse, family secrets, and revenge. Forensic expert Dr. Cat Ferry, an odontologist, deals with bite marks on her victims and her own family issues, including her need for alcohol. The protagonist becomes a vehicle for the exploration of human experiences via the examination of psychological, social, and physical perspectives. The book delves into complex issues like incest and sexual abuse, set in New Orleans, with twists and turns typical of a good serial killer mystery.
We judge and punish based on facts, but facts are not truth. Facts are like a buried skeleton uncovered long after death. Truth is fluid. Truth is alive. To know the truth requires understanding, the ...
(Also, see 14 recommendations for the series Mississippi ) - #2V.by:
"V." by Thomas Pynchon is a complex and immersive novel that delves into the cyclical nature of history through two distinct perspectives. The storyline follows the lives of Benny Profane and Pig Bodine in 1950s New York, intertwined with Stencil's quest to uncover the mysterious figure known as V. The novel is a mix of historical digressions, lyrical flights of fancy, and enigmatic meta-textual threads, all contributing to its reputation as a postmodern literary masterpiece.
Pynchon's writing style in "V." is described as dense, absurd, disturbing, and at times, challenging. The novel is filled with rich and vivid symbolism, intricate connections between characters, and historical references that add layers of complexity to the narrative. Readers are taken on a journey that oscillates between moments of confusion and clarity, ultimately leading to a profound exploration of human relationships and the impact of history on the present.
Christmas Eve, 1955, Benny Profane, wearing black levis, suede jacket, sneakers and big cowboy hat, happened to pass through Norfolk, Virginia. Given to sentimental impulses, he thought he'd look in o... - #3
'Zod Wallop' by William Browning Spencer is a captivating and complex story that follows the journey of Harry Gainsborough, a children's author and illustrator who writes his bestseller 'Zod Wallop' after facing personal tragedies. The story delves into themes of grief, loss, and redemption, blending elements of fantasy and reality in a unique and imaginative way. The writing style is described as clever, original, and filled with vivid imagery that compels readers to follow the intricate plot that weaves together various characters and storylines.
- #4
'To Green Angel Tower' by Tad Williams is the epic conclusion to the 'Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn' trilogy, where readers follow the characters on a complex and intricate journey through the land of Osten Ard. The book weaves together storylines of survival, war, alliances with mythical creatures, and the growth of the protagonist, Simon, from a kitchen boy to a knight facing the greatest powers in the realm. Williams creates a 3-dimensional world with complex characters like Simon, blending adventure, confusion, pain, and glory in a tale that answers questions from previous books while introducing darker and more impactful themes.
The book is known for its massive size and intricate plot, with over 1,000 pages that delve into the characters' struggles and the worldbuilding that connects readers deeply to the various cultures and landscapes within Osten Ard. Williams' writing style balances nuance and darkness, creating a journey that is both engaging and thought-provoking, setting a high standard for modern fantasy literature with themes that go beyond the traditional Tolkien-inspired formulas.
Simon squintedup at the stars swimming in the black night. He was finding it increasingly difficult to stay awake. His weary eyes turned to the brightest constellation, a rough circle of lights hoveri...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn ) - #5
'The Awakening of Ren Crown' is an exploration book where Ren, the main character, discovers her magical abilities after the loss of her brother. Ren's journey into the world of mages is described as psychedelic, insane, and filled with strange multi-planets. The story focuses on Ren's character development, her struggles with ambitious mages, and her determination to control her own life amidst a chaotic and magical world. The plot involves Ren's journey through magic school, her building friendships, navigating magical abilities, and facing challenges from both good and bad sides.
The writing style of the book is described as immersive, imaginative chaos, with a mixture of realism and artsy madness. Despite the initial confusion and slow start, the story picks up pace as Ren's adventures unfold, leading to a powerful and compelling conclusion. is praised for its strong and complicated characters, fantastic magic elements, and multiple plotlines that keep the readers engaged in Ren's journey.
- #6
'15 Minutes' by Jill Cooper follows the story of Lara Crane, a teenage girl who discovers she has the unique ability to physically interact with the past during time travel. The plot revolves around Lara's determination to change the past to save her mother, leading to unforeseen consequences and a complex time-travel mess that only she can unravel. As Lara navigates multiple timelines and realities, she must also evade the pursuit of the bad guys while trying to restore order and reunite her family. The writing style is fast-paced, focusing on the plot without overwhelming the reader with excessive backstory, creating a thrilling and engaging narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
- #7
Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi is a complex and dreamlike novel that blends elements of fairy tales with contemporary reality. The story follows the Lee women - Margot, Harriet, and Perdita - exploring themes of relationships, family dynamics, and the intertwining of fantasy and reality. The writing style is described as poetic and magical, mixing the real with the fantastical, leaving readers questioning the boundaries between imagination and truth.
Harriet Lee’s gingerbread is not comfort food. There’s no nostalgia baked into it, no hearkening back to innocent indulgences and jolly times at nursery. It is not humble, nor is it dusty in the crumb... - #8
"Empress of Forever" by Max Gladstone is a far future space opera that follows the journey of Vivian Liao, a billionaire inventor who is taken into the future by a mysterious green woman. The story delves deep into galactic politics, featuring a diverse cast of characters including space pirate queens, kung fu technomage monks, and nano shape shifters. The writing style is described as imaginative, wonder-filled, and sometimes humorous, with dense world-building and action-packed plots spanning across galaxies.
Oligarchs and video stars and billionaires and their daughters, princesses and actresses hoping for her notice, fresh-faced tech circuit darlings hungry to stand where Viv now stood but with only the ... - #9
In a post-apocalyptic Earth devastated by nuclear war and ruled by an alien species known as the Vegans, the novel "This Immortal" by Roger Zelazny follows Conrad Nomikos, Earth's Minister of Culture, Arts, and Monuments, as he reluctantly becomes a tour guide to a powerful Vegan visitor. The story delves into themes of Greek mythology, blending ancient myths with a modern, post-apocalyptic setting, and raises questions about Conrad's true identity and the intentions of the alien visitor touring Earth.
It had struck me that she was only half-joking. Knowing some of the things one occasionally meets in the Old Places, the Hot Places, you can almost believe in myths without extra effort—such as the st... - #10
Trinity Sight by Jennifer Givhan is a post-apocalyptic horror story that follows Calliope, a Ph.D. archaeologist who embarks on a journey with a diverse group of characters, including a Native American physicist named Chance Guardian, in search of her missing family after a cataclysmic event. The book delves into themes of parallel worlds, indigenous knowledge, and the blending of science and folklore, all wrapped in a gripping narrative that combines striking poetic descriptions with a roller coaster ride of emotions.