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Books matching: cultural portrait of the era

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  1. #1

    Hotel by Arthur Hailey
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    "Hotel" by Arthur Hailey is a compelling story set in a high-end hotel in New Orleans during the 1960s. The plot revolves around the assistant manager's challenges in running the hotel without proper authority, providing insights into the intricate workings of a large hotel. intricately weaves together various personal dramas, public events, and private interactions among a diverse cast of characters, creating a vivid cultural portrait of the era. Hailey's detailed descriptions of the hotel's operations and the character-driven narrative make the story engaging and immersive, offering a glimpse into the complexities of the hospitality industry.

    If he had had his way, Peter McDermott thought, he would have fired the chief house detective long ago. But he had not had his way and now, once more, the obese ex-policeman was missing when he was ne...

  2. #2

    Death of a Red Heroine - Inspector Chen Cao by Qiu Xiaolong
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    Set in Shanghai in the early 90s, 'Death of a Red Heroine' follows Detective Inspector Chen as he investigates the murder of a young woman who was a model citizen by day but led a mysterious life by night. The story intricately weaves a police procedural plot with a social commentary on the political atmosphere in China at the time, offering insights into Communist Party politics and societal transformations. The book introduces Chief Inspector Chen as a unique protagonist, blending his detective work with his poetic inclinations, and delves into the complexities of the case involving political implications and personal relationships.

    The narrative unfolds as Inspector Chen navigates through the changing landscape of China, delving into the life of the murdered model worker, Guan Hongying, and uncovering a web of political intrigue, personal secrets, and societal shifts. Through a mix of detailed descriptions of Shanghai, Communist Party politics, and references to Chinese poetry, the book presents a multifaceted mystery that combines elements of Chinese culture, politics, and everyday life, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of society and crime in 1990s Shanghai.

    Standing beside the body, Gao Ziling, captain of the Vanguard, spat vigorously on the damp ground three times—a half-hearted effort to ward off the evil spirits of the day, a day that had begun with a...

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