Books matching: deeply flawed protagonists
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- #1
Save:'Use of Weapons' by Iain M. Banks is a science fiction novel set in the 'Culture' series, delving into complex themes of morality, redemption, and the dark side of humanity. The narrative follows the character Zakalwe on a journey intertwined with flashbacks, revealing his past as a Special Circumstances agent and exploring his quest for salvation. The book employs a unique structure with alternating chapters going forward and backward in time, allowing for powerful character and plot insights. Banks' writing style is visually oriented, providing a grand and fun space opera experience while tackling challenging and thought-provoking concepts.
She made her way through the turbine hall, surrounded by an ever-changing ring of friends, admirers and animals - nebula to her attractive focus - talking to her guests, giving instructions to her sta...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Culture ) - #2
Save:'Nineteen Seventy Four' by David Peace is the first in the Red Riding Hood Quartet, set in northern England in 1974. It follows the story of journalist Ed Dunford as he investigates the brutal torture and murder of a young girl, leading him into a web of police corruption and brutality. The plot is described as suspenseful, filled with action and tension, creating a bleak society filled with unspeakable crimes. The writing style is noted for being raw, gripping, and dark, vividly portraying the corrupt world of Yorkshire in the 1970s.
The whole bloody pack sat waiting for the main attraction, pens poised and tapes paused; hot TV lights and cigarette smoke lighting up the windowless room like a Town Hall boxing ring on a Late Night ... - #3
Save:"A Personal Matter" by Kenzabur? ?e is a dark and raw novel that follows the story of Bird, a young man in Japan dealing with the birth of his son with a brain injury. The book delves into Bird's emotional struggles, self-absorption, and escapism through alcohol and past relationships, ultimately leading to a journey of transformation from immaturity to responsibility. The narrative explores themes of shame, despair, and courage in the face of personal tragedy, offering a brutally honest portrayal of human emotions and dilemmas.
The writing style of the book is described as intense, direct, and evocative, drawing readers into the stark realities of Bird's life and inner turmoil. The author, Oe, is praised for his poignant portrayal of complex characters, dark humor, and unflinching examination of difficult subjects like decay, cowardice, and the brutality of life. Despite the challenging subject matter, the book is commended for its powerful language, emotional depth, and exploration of universal human experiences.
BIRD, gazing down at the map of Africa that reposed in the showcase with the haughty elegance of a wild deer, stifled a short sigh. The salesgirls paid no attention, their arms and necks goosepimpled ... - #4
Save:'The Female of the Species' by Mindy McGinnis is a compelling and intense novel that follows the story of Alex Craft, a teenage girl who seeks vigilante justice against male rapists after her sister's murder. The book explores themes of rape culture, morality, revenge, and the complexities of relationships through the perspectives of three main characters - Alex, Jack, and Peekay. McGinnis' writing style is described as raw, brutal, and honest, delving deep into dark and heavy topics while also showcasing moments of tenderness and vulnerability.
When animals make a stupid mistake, you laugh at them. A cat misjudges a leap. A dog looks overly quizzical about a simple object. These are funny things. But when a person doesn’t understand somethin... - #5
Save:Set in a version of hell, where hopelessness is the operative word, this detective story focuses on the efforts of an Information Man named Thomas Fool to hunt down a killer wreaking havoc on humans while angering demons. Fool is also tasked with escorting a delegation from Heaven for negotiations to determine which residents will be elevated or lowered. The investigation lacks a clear sense of direction or focus, with Fool blundering into leads. Good premise potential but too slow, repetitive, unfocused, and not nearly enough character development. Despite the challenges, Fool is drawn into an increasingly disturbing web of lies as he uncovers facts about the agenda of both angels and demons. The writing style is described as thrilling, imaginative, and fascinating, with a unique take on the crime noir genre in a hell of grey grim monotony.
The day began with Gordie, who knocked on Fool’s door and entered the room without waiting. He bustled over to Fool, waving a blue-ribboned canister in front of him like a torch that had lost its ligh... - #6
Save:'Gone to See the River Man' by Kristopher Triana follows the story of Lori, a woman fascinated by true crime who becomes obsessed with an imprisoned serial killer named Edmund Cox. Through a series of letters and visitations, Cox sends Lori on a quest to retrieve a key from his hidden shack in Killen, a rural river town. Accompanied by her disabled sister, Abby, Lori embarks on a journey through isolated wilderness to find the River Man, a mysterious figure connected to Cox's past. As the plot unfolds, dark secrets are revealed, and Lori's obsession with Cox takes a terrifying turn, leading to a gripping and haunting tale of horror and obsession.
Edmund was almost poetic when he wanted to be, despite his poor grammar and spelling. Lori was actually surprised he’d gotten this sentence right. His musings always held some grim underlining, like a... - #7Baltimore, or, The Steadfast Tin Soldier and the VampireBook 1 in the series:Baltimore
Save:Baltimore, or, The Steadfast Tin Soldier and the Vampire by Christopher Golden is a gothic adventure tale following the titular hero, Henry Baltimore, a menacing figure who uses a harpoon as a walking stick and is on a mission to slay otherworldly fiends. The story is illustrated by Mike Mignola, known for his work on Hellboy, and features around 150 illustrations that add depth to the narrative. Despite being categorized as a vampire novel, Baltimore stands out by incorporating elements of folktales and creating a unique reading experience that differs from traditional vampire stories. The writing style is reminiscent of H.P. Lovecraft and Poe, with a touch of folktales, making it a captivating and atmospheric read.
- #8
Save:A Confusion of Princes by Garth Nix is a science fiction novel that follows the journey of Prince Khemri, who is one of millions of princes vying for the position of Emperor in a vast galactic Empire. Born and raised to serve the Imperial Mind, Khemri undergoes training and enhancements to fulfill his princely duties. However, as he begins to question his destiny and encounters unexpected challenges, he embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery and growth. The book explores themes of privilege, duty, humanity, and the complexities of power through the eyes of a young prince navigating a treacherous world.
The author, Garth Nix, intricately weaves a tale of political intrigue, space battles, and self-realization in a futuristic setting filled with advanced technologies and alien encounters. Through Khemri's character development and the revelations about the Empire's inner workings, Nix creates a dark and complex narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With elements of action, mystery, and moral dilemmas, A Confusion of Princes offers a unique blend of science fiction storytelling that delves into the essence of what it means to be human in a world of power and manipulation.
This is one of the secrets the Empire keeps well. No Prince may ever know his or her parents, or the world of their birth. Even trying to find out is forbidden, which just about sums up the paradox of... - #9
Save:In "Dark Rivers of the Heart" by Dean Koontz, the story follows Spencer Grant, an ex-law enforcement officer, who becomes entangled in a dangerous pursuit to protect Valerie Keene from government officials. As Spencer and Valerie race against time, they uncover buried memories, face a relentless assassin, and navigate a world of high-tech surveillance and shadowy government agencies. The novel weaves a suspenseful plot with gripping backstories, intertwining past and present elements seamlessly, while exploring themes of corruption, power, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
With the woman on his mind and a deep uneasiness in his heart, Spencer Grant drove through the glistening night, searching for the red door. The vigilant dog sat silently beside him. Rain ticked on th... - #10
Save:In a post-apocalyptic world devastated by bioterrorist attacks, 'Aftertime' by Sophie Littlefield follows Cass, a recovering alcoholic, on a harrowing journey to find her daughter Ruthie amidst a landscape filled with flesh-eating zombies and danger. The book portrays Cass as a tough yet raw character battling inner demons while striving for redemption and a chance to reunite with her daughter. The plot is emotionally wrenching and focuses on Cass's quest for survival and hope in a world that has drastically changed.
The writing style in 'Aftertime' is described as smooth, descriptive, and engaging without being maudlin. The narrative follows Cass's struggles with self, past abuse, and alcoholism, making her journey towards redemption and family the central focus of the story. The characters, especially Cass and Smoke, are well-drawn and complex, adding depth to the post-apocalyptic setting and the challenges they face.
THAT IT WAS SUMMER WAS NOT IN DOUBT. The nights were much too short and the days too long. Something about the color of the sky said August to Cass. Maybe the blue was bluer. Hadn’t autumn signaled it...
