Books matching: courtly intrigue
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In a Dark Wood Wandering: A Novel of the Middle Ages by Hella S. Haasse is a historical fiction novel set during the Hundred Years War between France and England. The book provides a unique perspective of the late 1300s and 1400s from the French side, focusing on the life of Charles, Duke of Orleans. It delves into courtly intrigues, passionate storytelling, and the struggles of historical figures like Charles, Joan of Arc, and other royalty during that tumultuous period. The writing style is described as vivid, rich, and detailed, bringing to life the characters and events of the Middle Ages in France.
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Sector Eight is a sci-fi LitRPG novel that follows the story of a skilled gamer who is hired to play a role in a fully immersive virtual reality game for a rich client. The protagonist finds himself navigating through courtly intrigue, space battles, and a game-like culture while trying to improve his character's standing within the game. The plot twists and turns keep readers engaged as the protagonist overcomes challenges and strategizes to succeed in this unique game world.
The book combines elements of space opera with LitRPG, creating a realistic space opera with a game-like culture and a focus on social interactions and reputation building. The main character's journey from a negative position to a position of power and influence, along with the unique game mechanics and immersive storytelling, make Sector Eight a compelling read for fans of both genres.
I don't even know what it was exactly that scared me more: my nails being painted dark blue and green; the black-green ring on my pointer finger; the gold chain on my wrist, which was thin with a mode... 'Medicis Daughter: A Novel of Marguerite de Valois' by Sophie Perinot is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life of Princess Marguerite de Valois, daughter of Catherine de Medici. The story follows Margot's struggles as she navigates the treacherous political landscape of 16th century France, being used as a pawn by her family and facing challenges such as forbidden love, courtly intrigue, and the burden of her royal duty. Through the eyes of Marguerite, the readers get a glimpse of the religious turmoil during that era, her complex relationships with her family members, especially her mother, and her journey towards finding her own strength and independence.
Sophie Perinot's writing style in 'Medicis Daughter' is praised for its ability to transport readers back in time to the 1500s France, making the characters and the historical period come alive. The author skillfully weaves a compelling narrative that captures the essence of Marguerite de Valois' life, portraying her as a strong and resilient woman who defies societal expectations and asserts her own agency in a world where women are often marginalized and used for political gains.
“It was also cold in Amboise,” I reply, trying to keep my voice cheerful while repressing an urge to kick Madame in the shins as she sits across from me in the coach. How can she think of the cold at ...- #4
'Kingdoms of Elfin' by Sylvia Townsend Warner is a collection of interconnected stories set in various Elvin Kingdoms located in Western Europe, ranging from the late middle ages to just before the end of the 19th century. The stories depict a parallel universe where fairies are cold, austere, and often cruel beings living for centuries with no souls. The writing style is described as brilliantly crafted, with intricate descriptions that create a dim, glittering world in a forest far away yet close enough to be parallel to our own.
The book explores the lives and customs of the Elfin aristocracy, their interactions with humans, and the complex hierarchy within the fairy society. Warner's narratives are spellbinding, with stories that end tragically for most characters involved, leaving readers wanting more. The writing is noted for its witty and wicked tone, creating a world where beings live their lives in a strange and alien way, touched differently by time.
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'The Burgundians: A Vanished Empire' by Bart van Loo takes the reader on a vibrant tour of the largely forgotten dynasty of the Dukes of Burgundy from the 9th through the 15th centuries. The author's colloquial and congenial writing style makes the historical events and everyday life in Flanders and France during the period of the Dukes of Burgundy come alive. The narrative covers the lives of the four great Dukes of Burgundy, their territorial ambitions, patronage of the arts, and their eventual downfall, providing a comprehensive overview of this ambitious but flawed family's influence on European history.
The author's deep historical research combined with his storytelling ability makes this book not only informative but also engaging. Through the exploration of the House of Burgundy, the reader gains insight into the intricate web of family alliances, trade, taxes, and brutality that characterized the rule of the Burgundian dukes. delves into the economic, political, and cultural aspects of the period, shedding light on the rise and fall of this second-tier player on the European continent.
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An Alchemy of Masques and Mirrors by Curtis Craddock is a fantasy novel set in a world of floating islands, blood magic, and mirror projections. The story follows Princess Isabelle des Zephyrs, a polymath physically disabled princess, and her devoted musketeer, Jean Claude. Together, they navigate a world filled with complex villains, court intrigue, and political marriages. The writing style is described as fast-paced, intricate, and detailed, with a mix of adventure, intrigue, and witty banter reminiscent of The Three Musketeers.
Jean-Claude clung to the St. Marie’s guardrail with one hand and to his tether with the other. He wanted a word with Captain Jerome, who stood on the quarterdeck, an impossible distance away. Unfortun... - #7
The Traitor Baru Cormorant follows the journey of Baru, a brilliant and complex protagonist, who is plucked from her native family to be educated by an empire that is taking over her homeland. As she rises through the ranks of the empire, she navigates a world of political intrigue, betrayal, and difficult choices. Baru's ultimate goal is to gain enough power to potentially liberate her home, but the central question remains: is she a traitor, and to what exactly? The book delves into themes of morality, sacrifice, and the cost of trying to change a system from within, all while exploring a society undergoing colonization, economic manipulation, and cultural suppression.
The writing style of The Traitor Baru Cormorant is described as intellectually devastating and emotionally rigorous, blending elements reminiscent of authors like Guy Gavriel Kay and KJ Parker. The story unfolds with intricate plot twists, deep character studies, and a focus on political and economic intrigue. Despite being a fantasy novel without traditional magic elements, the book captivates readers with its complex characters, well-built world, and a narrative that challenges readers to question the boundaries of power and loyalty.
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 ... - #8
In 'The Curse of Chalion,' Lois McMaster Bujold presents a fantasy world where five gods influence the lives of its inhabitants, creating a religious system based on the seasons with a wildcard god, The Bastard, for those who do not fit into the others. The story follows protagonist Cazaril, who is empathetic and charming, navigating political machinations and a complex society while trying to break a curse that plagues the royal family. Bujold weaves a tale of action, intrigue, and a touch of romance, set in a richly developed world that feels real and immersive.
The book delves into themes of religion, political intrigue, redemption, and character growth, with a focus on a hero who does not seek to be a hero but fulfills his responsibilities with intelligence and empathy. Bujold's writing style is praised for its deep character development, intricate world-building, and clever plot intricacies that keep readers engaged and invested in the story till the satisfying end.
Cazaril heard the mounted horsemen on the road before he saw them. He glanced over his shoulder. The well-worn track behind him curled up around a rolling rise, what passed for a hill on these high wi... - #9
In the first installment of The Farseer Trilogy, "Assassin's Apprentice," readers are introduced to FitzChivalry Farseer, the bastard son of a prince, who is raised in a dangerous position where there are people who want him dead. Swearing allegiance to his grandfather the king, Fitz becomes an apprentice to the royal assassin, navigating a world filled with courtly intrigue, political tensions, and the looming threat to his life. The book is praised for its in-depth story, intricate world-building, and fantastic character development, setting the stage for a tale full of twists and intrigue.
A history of the Six Duchies is of necessity a history of its ruling family, the Farseers. A complete telling would reach back beyond the founding of the First Duchy, and if such names were remembered... - #10
In 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black, the story follows Jude and her sisters who are taken to Faerie after witnessing their parents' murder. Set in a world of magic and intrigue, Jude navigates the dangerous court as she strives for power and a place among the faerie lords and ladies. With twists and turns, the book keeps readers engaged with its lush descriptions and complex characters.
The book is a dark fantasy tale filled with revenge, drama, courtly intrigue, and magic. Readers are introduced to a world where danger and betrayal lurk around every corner, as Jude faces challenges and choices that will impact not only her family but the entire kingdom of Faerie.
“The tournament is still four nights away,” the creature says. Her name is Tatterfell, and she’s a servant in Madoc’s household, stuck here until she works off her debt to him. She’s cared for me sinc...