Books matching: elegant historical writing style
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- #1
Save:In "His Majesty's Dragon," author Naomi Novik presents an alternate history during the Napoleonic Wars where dragons play a crucial role in warfare. The story follows Captain Will Laurence, who unexpectedly becomes a dragon rider after capturing a French ship carrying a dragon egg. Laurence forms a deep bond with the dragon, Temeraire, as they navigate through the challenges of joining the British Aerial Corps and fighting alongside each other in aerial battles. The book seamlessly blends elements of historical fiction with fantasy, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and adaptation to new circumstances.
THE DECK OF the French ship was slippery with blood, heaving in the choppy sea; a stroke might as easily bring down the man making it as the intended target. Laurence did not have time in the heat of ... - #2
Save:'Hotel Transylvania' in the Saint-Germain series by Chelsea Quinn Yarbro is a historical vampire novel set in Ancien Regime France. It follows the sophisticated and heroic vampire, Saint Germain, as he navigates through a world filled with intrigue, deception, romance, and treachery. The story revolves around Saint Germain's involvement with a coven of satanists and his rescue of an aristocratic young lady who later becomes a vampire. is rich in historical details and features a blend of romance, violence, and elegance, creating an engaging narrative that captures the essence of 18th-century Paris.
The writing style of Chelsea Quinn Yarbro in 'Hotel Transylvania' is noted for its attention to historical accuracy and the incorporation of letters and notes focusing on the events of the times the book is set in. The character development of Saint Germain over time and his ability to adapt to his surroundings are highlighted as refreshing aspects in a genre often filled with angst-filled vampires.
- #3
Save:Abigail by Magda Szabo is a coming-of-age novel set in World War II Hungary, following the story of Gina, a privileged and slightly spoiled teenage girl sent to a strict boarding school by her father, a General, for her safety. The book delves into the complexities of human relationships, the challenges of adapting to a new environment, and the mysteries surrounding the school and its hidden helper, Abigail. Through engaging storytelling and a mix of innocence, danger, and intrigue, Szabo weaves a tale of friendship, love, sacrifice, and the struggles of growing up in tumultuous times.
When Magda Szabó came to write Abigail in 1970, she was already an established figure in her native Hungary, with a growing international reputation. Prior to that, she had endured years of enforced s... - #4
Save:'The Old Capital' by Yasunari Kawabata is a novel set in Kyoto, Japan, focusing on the lives of characters intertwined with the city's rich traditions and landscapes. The story follows Chieko, an adopted daughter who discovers her true identity and navigates the clash between old Japanese customs and the influence of Westernization in post-war Kyoto. The novel beautifully captures the essence of Japanese culture through detailed descriptions of nature, traditional practices, and the characters' emotional journeys, creating a serene and melancholic atmosphere reminiscent of classic Japanese literature.
The writing style of 'The Old Capital' is praised for its evocative descriptions of Kyoto's seasons, realistic landscapes, and the preservation of the city's crafts and traditions. Yasunari Kawabata skillfully paints a picture of a changing Kyoto through the eyes of characters like Chieko, offering readers a glimpse into a world where beauty, tradition, and modernity converge in a delicate balance. The novel's slow-paced narrative allows for contemplation of the characters' inner worlds and the evolving cultural landscape of Kyoto, making it a captivating and immersive read for those interested in Japanese literature and history.
- #5
Save:'Once Upon a Tower' by Eloisa James is a fairy tale romance that follows the story of Gowan Stoughton, Duke of Kinross, and Lady Edith Gilchrist. Gowan falls in love with Edie at first sight and proposes to her, even though she doesn't remember him from their first meeting. The couple faces challenges due to their lack of communication and rigid habits, leading to obstacles in their relationship. The book takes inspiration from the Rapunzel fairy tale but focuses more on the couple's personal struggles and misunderstandings rather than the traditional fairy tale elements. The writing style combines romance, humor, and compelling side plots that keep the readers engaged throughout the story.
Whenever possible, Gowan Stoughton of Craigievar, Duke of Kinross, Chief of Clan MacAulay, avoided rooms crowded with Englishmen. They were all babbling gossips with more earwax than brains, as his fa...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Fairy Tales ) - #6
Save:"The Winter Soldier" by Daniel Mason is a historical novel set during World War I, focusing on a young medical student named Lucius who becomes a doctor in the Austro-Hungarian army. The story unfolds in a remote medical outpost in the Carpathian Mountains on the Eastern front, where Lucius grapples with the challenges of war, trauma, and love. The writing style is described as elegant, compelling, and character-driven, delving into themes of redemption, atonement, and the psychological depth of the main character.
There was no announcement, not even a whistle. Were it not for the snow-draped placard, he wouldn’t have known they had arrived. Hastening, afraid he would miss the stop, he gathered his bag, his coat... - #7
Save:Queen Liliuokalani's 'Hawaii's Story by Hawaii's Queen' is a non-fiction book that serves as a historical account of Hawaii, focusing on the colonial aggression and domination that led to the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. The book details the struggles faced by Queen Liliuokalani and her predecessors in trying to preserve the islands as a free nation, while also shedding light on the involvement of powerful interests, such as American planters, in subverting the monarchy. The writing style is described as elegant, precise, and poignant, offering a blend of personal narrative, political history, and social commentary.
THE extinct crater or mountain which forms the background to the city of Honolulu is known as the Punch-Bowl; at its base is situated the Queen's Hospital, so named because of the great interest taken... - #8
Save:'Would I Lie to the Duke' by Eva Leigh is a historical romance novel set in 1817, the second book in the 'Union of the Rakes' series. The story follows Jessica McGale, a determined young woman who takes on the alias of Lady Whitfield to secure investors for her family's soap business. Her path crosses with Noel Edwards, the Duke of Rotherby, who is enchanted by Jess and is one of the few who sees him as a man rather than just a Duke. As their relationship develops, Jess's deception poses a threat to their happiness, leading to a heartwarming and enriching romance filled with passion, drama, and witty banter.
“Be sure to let Powers know that her ladyship will overnight at the Three Graces Inn in Basingstoke,” Jess said to Penny, Lady Catherton’s maid, as they walked down the length of the portrait gallery....
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Union of the Rakes ) - #9
Save:'The Arrest of Arsene Lupin' by Maurice Leblanc is a mystery series following the adventures of a French gentleman thief named Arsene Lupin. The book is a collection of short stories involving Lupin's heists, cons, and mind games, often pitting him against Sherlock Holmes or a similar detective character. The writing style is described as witty, charming, and engaging, with a mix of suspense and humor that keeps readers entertained throughout the stories.
The plot of 'The Arrest of Arsene Lupin' revolves around Lupin's clever schemes and elaborate thefts, showcasing his intelligence and daring nature as he outwits his adversaries. The stories are filled with twists and surprises, making them engaging and enjoyable for fans of mystery and crime fiction. The character of Arsene Lupin is portrayed as a flamboyant and secretive protagonist, adding depth and intrigue to the narratives.
- #10
Save:In "The Bride Price" by Quenby Olson, Emily Collicott makes a difficult choice to marry a stranger to secure a future for herself and her sisters after her reputation is ruined by a heartless rake. Despite the circumstances of their marriage, she finds happiness with her new husband, William, but their peaceful life is threatened when the man who ruined her reputation reappears, putting everything she holds dear at risk. The story unfolds with a realistic portrayal of the powerlessness of women at the time, exploring themes of resilience, adversity, and the complexities of relationships.
