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Books matching: desperation and betrayal

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  1. #1

    The Getaway by Jim Thompson
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    'The Getaway' by Jim Thompson follows the story of Doc McCoy and his wife, Carol, as they attempt to escape after a bank robbery goes awry. The narrative explores themes of desperation, betrayal, and violence as the couple navigates a dangerous journey to evade the law and their criminal associates. The writing style is described as dark, unglamorous, and deeply nihilistic, portraying a gritty and realistic depiction of crime and its consequences.

    Carter "Doc" McCoy had left a morning call for six o'clock, and he was reaching for the telephone the moment the night clerk rang. He had always awakened easily and pleasantly; a man with not a regret...

  2. #2

    The Witch's Trinity by Erika Mailman
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    The Witch's Trinity by Erika Mailman is a gripping tale set in a small German village during the early 16th century, amidst a time of great famine. The story follows Gude, an elderly woman accused of witchcraft, as she navigates through a web of deceit and fear within her community. The novel delves into themes of faith, superstition, and the cruelty of the Catholic church during the witch trials, providing a realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by the characters in a time of mass hysteria and desperation.

    The narrative, told through the eyes of Gude, offers a haunting and thought-provoking perspective on the impact of dire circumstances on human behavior. As the village falls into chaos and paranoia, the story unfolds with unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The book skillfully weaves together elements of history, folklore, and human psychology, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience that sheds light on the complexities of faith, fear, and survival.

    “Soup’s for those who work,” said Irmeltrud. “Those who barely move all the day long need little to sustain them.” Jost tried to catch her eye, but she wouldn’t let him. Such a thing was true, but she...

  3. #3

    Nobody Move by Denis Johnson
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    'Nobody Move' by Denis Johnson is a fast-paced noir thriller set in modern-day California, following a group of low-life losers and gangsters entangled in a convoluted web of violence, double-crosses, and criminal schemes. The story revolves around a likable gambler named Jimmy Luntz who gets caught up in a dangerous game of debts, theft, and betrayal, all while navigating relationships with intriguing characters like a femme fatale and a retired combat nurse. Johnson's writing style is described as crisp, with sharp dialogue and occasional poetic moments, propelling the action-packed plot forward.

    JIMMY LUNTZ had never been to war, but this was the sensation, he was sure of that—eighteen guys in a room, Rob, the director, sending them out—eighteen guys shoulder to shoulder, moving out on the or...

  4. #4

    The Surrogate by Louise Jensen
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    'The Surrogate' by Louise Jensen is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of love, friendship, and sacrifice. The story follows Kat and Nick, a couple desperate to become parents, who turn to Kat's childhood friend Lisa as a surrogate. As the plot unfolds, secrets, lies, and betrayal come to light, leading to a series of shocking and unforeseen consequences. The writing style is described as intense, suspenseful, and filled with clever twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats until the final explosive conclusion.

    Behind me, the laughter rings out again. I tell myself it can’t be her, but I know, even after all this time, it is. The world falls away from me and I grip the counter so hard my knuckles bleach whit...

  5. 'By The Time We Leave Here, We?ll Be Friends' by Jeremy Robert Johnson and J. David Osborne is a dark and gritty novel set in a Siberian gulag, following the story of Alek Karriker, a former prisoner turned guard, as he navigates the treacherous environment filled with violence, body horror, and surreal nightmares. The book explores themes of survival, betrayal, and moral ambiguity, all depicted through the minimalist writing style of Osborne that vividly portrays the harsh realities of life in the prison.


  6. #6

    Thief of Souls by J.G. Faherty
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    Thief of Souls by J.G. Faherty is a short novel that follows the troubled character Perry Spellman. In a desperate attempt to recover stolen money from a friend, Perry turns to burglary. However, his troubles escalate when he unwittingly acquires a cursed Polynesian mask, leading to nightmarish consequences. The story mixes elements of artifacts, revenge, and dark themes, making it intriguing yet ultimately underwhelming for some readers.

    The writing style is engaging, with a fast-paced narrative that feels similar to episodes of classic horror anthologies. Despite the solid prose and interesting premise, the pacing falters as the story progresses. Many readers find that it lacks the expected creepy atmosphere and suspense, and while the ending offers some resolution, the emotional connection with Perry remains weak throughout the novella.


  7. #7

    Glengarry Glen Ross by David Mamet
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    "Glengarry Glen Ross" is a powerful and moving play that delves into the cutthroat world of real estate sales, focusing on four desperate salesmen as they compete for leads and success in a high-stakes environment. The narrative explores themes of desperation, manipulation, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, as they navigate a landscape where the mantra "Always be Closing" dictates their actions. Mamet's writing style is characterized by rapid-fire, machine-gun dialogue that captures the tensions and complexities of interpersonal relationships, revealing the characters' motivations and ethical codes in a brutally honest manner.

    The play is structured around the interactions and conflicts between the salesmen, each representing different facets of ambition and moral compromise. Mamet's unique voice shines through in the cadences of the dialogue, which not only drives the action but also unveils deeper truths about the characters. The compelling conclusion leaves audiences with a sense of both understanding and compassion for these flawed individuals, who are trapped in a system that rewards deceit and self-interest.


  8. #8
    Snare
    Book 1 in the series:Reykjavik Noir

    Snare - Reykjavik Noir by Lilja Sigurðardottir
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    In 'Snare' by Lilja Sigurardottir, the story revolves around Sonja Gunnarsdottir, who becomes an unwilling drug mule after her husband files for divorce and demands custody of their son. Sonja's descent into the criminal underworld of drug smuggling is portrayed alongside a subplot involving financial crimes post a global financial crisis in Iceland. The narrative is set in a dark, chilling Reykjavik, offering readers an authentic Nordic noir experience with a fast-paced plot filled with suspense. The book features a cast of largely unlikeable characters, including Sonja herself, but the character development arc of Sonja is a highlight, complementing the intertwined storylines.

    The book is structured with short, one to three-page chapters that maintain a steady pace, keeping readers engaged and on the edge of their seats. The author, Lilja Sigurardottir, skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, including drug smuggling, financial investigations, broken families, and personal struggles, creating a gripping narrative that offers unexpected twists and turns. The writing style, brilliantly translated by Quentin Bates, is smooth and immersive, providing a seamless reading experience that delves into the complexities of the characters' lives and their morally grey decisions.


  9. #9

    Dead Woman Walking by Sharon J. Bolton (Sharon Bolton)
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    'Dead Woman Walking' by Sharon J. Bolton is a gripping thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story follows the lives of two sisters, Jessica and Isabel, as they find themselves entangled in a web of secrets and deception. With a plot filled with twists and turns, the book explores the extreme lengths people will go to in desperate situations. Sharon Bolton's writing style is described as comfortable and flowing, with vivid descriptions that bring the story to life like a movie playing in front of the reader's eyes.

    THE BALLOON HUNG in the air like an inverted Christmas bauble, its voluptuous, candy-striped sphere reflected perfectly in the lake. In the early light, the water glowed with the colours of a ripe pea...

  10. #10

    The Jasad Heir - The Scorched Throne by Sara Hashem
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    Ten years ago, her family was murdered and her kingdom of Jasad was razed to the ground. Five years ago, she escaped captivity and found herself bloodied and desperate on a chemist's doorstep seeking sanctuary. Now, Sylvia works as that Chemist's apprentice in one of Omal's lower villages. As the surviving Jasadis are systematically hunted and murdered for their ability to use magic, Syliva does her best to hide in plain sight. That is, until a series of unfortunate events lands her in the crosshairs of the Nizhal Heir, the heir of the very kingdom which destroyed her own. With his uncanny ability to sense magic, and an icy and calculating mind, Sylvia will have to outmaneuver the Commander of the forces that would see her ruined. Will she be able to keep her secrets Or is this the beginning of the very end. Sara Hashem's The Jasad Heir is a powerhouse of a fantasy debut. With unflinching action, and tense desperation, it has found a home in my favorite books of 2023. Egyptian Inspired, Slow burn enemies to lovers and when I say enemies I mean enemies. There are a few stabbings. Plural. This novel brings you everything you want from a fantasy novel, action, adventure, magic, mythic beasts, tragedy, comedy, romance, politics and more. The writing was lovely, and fluid. The characters were strong and dimensional. Sylvia is a strong female main character, with grit and tenacity, she is a strong and agile survivor, with a mouth and temper to boot. Arin, the Nizhal Heir, is the picture of cold, composed stoicisim. A razor sharp mind, to match Sylvia's. I simply loved the characters and how they grew and changed over the course of the novel.


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