Books matching: domestic affairs
9 result(s)
- #1
'Caesar's Women' in the series 'Masters of Rome' by Colleen McCullough focuses on the lives of the key historical figures in ancient Rome, primarily Julius Caesar, Pompey Magnus, and the political maneuverings within the Roman Republic. The plot delves into the intricate details of Roman history, covering events such as the Catiline Conspiracy, the Vettius Affair, and Caesar's enmity with Marcus Porcius Cato. The narrative weaves through domestic affairs, political schemes, and the influential roles played by Caesar's women including his mother, daughter, and mistress, Servilia.
The writing style of 'Caesar's Women' is characterized by extensive research, detailed recreation of ancient Roman culture, and a focus on the personal lives of the characters amidst the backdrop of political intrigue. The author, Colleen McCullough, presents a narrative that brings ancient Rome to life, portraying the complexities of Roman society, the ambitions of its prominent figures, and the everyday struggles and triumphs of the characters, all set against the historical events of the time.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Masters of Rome ) - #2
Dorothy Sayers' "Busman's Honeymoon" follows the newly married Lord Peter Wimsey and Harriet Vane as they embark on their honeymoon, only to discover a corpse in the basement of their new country home. The book delves into the challenges of their relationship, the adjustments they must make, and the complexities of their new life together, all while unraveling a murder mystery. Sayers weaves humor, romance, and suspense throughout the narrative, showcasing the dynamics between the characters and the intricacies of the plot.
The novel explores themes of love, marriage, and the intricacies of relationships, blending elements of a detective story with a love story. Through witty dialogue, clever plot twists, and engaging characters, Sayers crafts a narrative that keeps readers entertained and invested in the fates of Lord Peter and Harriet, while also providing insights into societal norms and class distinctions of the time.
MR MERVYN BUNTER, patiently seated in the Daimler on the far side of Regent’s Park, reflected that time was getting on. Packed in eiderdowns in the back of the car was a case containing two and a half...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Lord Peter Wimsey ) - #3
David Baldacci's 'Long Road to Mercy' introduces readers to FBI agent Atlee Pine, stationed near the Grand Canyon, who investigates a mysterious murder of a mule that leads to a larger international conspiracy. Atlee, haunted by the abduction of her twin sister Mercy, navigates a dangerous plot involving national security threats and intricate political entanglements. The narrative unfolds with fast-paced action, complex characters like Atlee and her secretary Carol Blum, and a blend of thriller elements with a touch of personal backstory interwoven into the main plotline.
ADX Florence, about a hundred miles south of Denver, was the only supermax prison in the federal system. The supermax component was one of four separate encampments that made up the Federal Correction... - #4
In "Exile's Valor," readers delve into the world of Valdemar through the eyes of Alberich, the Weaponsmaster, and witness the intricate political schemes and personal struggles within the kingdom. The story follows Alberich as he navigates his new role, uncovers potential threats to the queen, and forms unexpected alliances to protect the realm. The narrative weaves together elements of intrigue, romance, and loyalty, offering a deeper exploration of characters like Alberich and Queen Selenay.
"Exile's Valor" is a continuation of the Valdemar series, providing readers with a closer look at beloved characters like Alberich and Queen Selenay. The book delves into the complexities of their relationships, the challenges they face, and the growth they experience throughout the story. With a blend of action, character development, and political machinations, the novel offers a captivating journey through the world of Valdemar.
Both of them gazed on the finished product in silence, while behind them a warm fire crackled on the hearth. It was a staggeringly beautiful piece of stained-glass work; in fact, Alberich thought, it ...
(Also, see 10 recommendations for the series Alberich's Tale ) 'Log of the S.S. The Mrs. Unguentine' by Stanley Crawford is a unique literary voyage narrated by Mrs. Unguentine, who recounts her life with Mr. Unguentine aboard a barge turned floating garden. The story delves into their dead marriage, endless voyage, and phantom husband, all set in a lush organic architecture filled with Rube Goldberg-esque ideas and botanical color. Through Mrs. Unguentine's log entries, the reader is taken on a journey that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, exploring themes of solitude, interdependence, sustainable living, and the complexities of long-term relationships.
Unguentine, suicide, the business card, the barge, alcoholic’s leap into the sea, bottle, grey lips, boughs dragging in sea currents. So goes the sequence, the awful chain, and between my despair at n...- #6
The Secrets of Wishtide by Kate Saunders is a historical mystery set in Victorian England, following the adventures of Mrs. Letitia Rodd, a middle-aged clergyman's widow who works as a discreet private investigator with the help of her successful barrister brother. The book delves into the complexities of society in 1850 England, with Letitia solving cases involving family secrets, murder mysteries, and social intrigue. The plot is filled with twists and turns, set against a backdrop of British Victorian values and humor that still resonates with modern audiences.
It was a bright, windy October morning, and Mrs Bentley and I were down in the basement kitchen making a rabbit pudding. The rabbits were a gift from Mrs Bentley’s second son, whose daughter I had hel... - #7
'The CIA as Organized Crime: How Illegal Operations Corrupt America and the World' by Douglas Valentine delves into the dark and hidden side of US foreign politics, revealing the extent of corruption and criminal activities within the CIA. Through comprehensive research and fearless indictment, Valentine paints a chilling picture of the CIA's influence and operations, showcasing how corruption has become ingrained in every agency of the US government. The writing style, although informative and detailed, may come across as bland to some readers, but the content is eye-opening and thought-provoking, exposing the reader to the unsettling reality of the agency's actions.
- #8
'The Sleeper' by Emily Barr is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the intertwined stories of Lara and Iris. Lara, whose marriage is on the rocks, finds herself entangled in a dangerous affair on a sleeper train, while Iris is on a quest to uncover the truth behind Lara's sudden disappearance. Emily Barr's writing style weaves a tale of obsession, deception, and past tragedies colliding, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the story unfolds through multiple perspectives.
He stands next to me on the balcony and hands me the green mug his horrible mother gave me for Christmas. A train pulls into the station below us. It has two carriages, and thus is the biggest train t... - #9
"Little Secrets" by Jennifer Hillier is a gripping thriller that follows Marin, a mother whose young son is kidnapped in a crowded market. As she struggles to cope with the loss, she discovers her husband's affair, leading to a series of events involving secrets, lies, and revenge. The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they uncover the shocking truth behind the characters' actions.
Pike Place Market is a tourist trap on a regular day. Combine it with last-minute holiday shopping and an extremely mild, sunny weekend—almost unheard of in December—and you are in the busiest nine ac...