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Books matching: engaging storytelling with fast paced narrative

13 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 13 
  1. #1
    Yours Until Death
    Book 1 in the series:Varg Veum

    Yours Until Death - Varg Veum by Gunnar Staalesen
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    Yours Until Death by Gunnar Staalesen is a gripping novel that follows the private investigator Varg Veum as he navigates a chaotic world filled with love, betrayal, and murder. The plot revolves around Varg accepting a case from an eight-year-old boy to retrieve his stolen bicycle, leading him to uncover a dangerous gang of teenage thugs terrorizing a housing estate. As Varg delves deeper into the case, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit and violence, ultimately risking his life to prove the innocence of a woman accused of murder. Written in a tough-talking style with elements of hardboiled American detective fiction, the novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced narrative and engaging storytelling.


  2. #2

    Impossible Things by Connie Willis
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    'Impossible Things' by Connie Willis is a collection of short stories that showcase the author's talent for weaving together science fiction elements with personal and warm narratives. The stories cover a wide range of themes, from time travel to political correctness, bureaucracy, and romance. Willis's writing style is praised for its humor, compassion, and innovative ideas, creating engaging and funny tales that often carry deeper meanings. The book includes stories that range from hilarious and delightful to heartbreaking and thought-provoking, with settings that vary from World War II London to alternate Earths and space colonies.

    On the way out to Tempe I saw a dead jackal in the road. I was in the far left lane of Van Buren, ten lanes away from it, and its long legs were facing away from me, the squarish muzzle flat against t...

  3. #3
    Reamde
    Book 1 in the series:Dodge

    Reamde - Dodge by Neal Stephenson
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    'Reamde' by Neal Stephenson is a sprawling thriller that delves into the world of online gaming, espionage, hackers, and international security. The plot follows the creation of T'Rain, a popular online multiplayer game, which becomes the target of hackers releasing a virus called Reamde. This leads to a global conflict that goes beyond the virtual world, involving a diverse cast of characters such as a game author, Russian mobsters, British intelligence agents, and more. The writing style is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, intricate descriptions of technology, and a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers engaged.

    “The Apostropocalypse,” Richard said, mangling it a little, since it was hard to pronounce even when you were sober, and he had been hanging out in the tavern of Schloss Hundschüttler for a good part ...

  4. #4
    Flaming June
    Book 10 in the series:Rogues & Gentlemen

    Flaming June - Rogues & Gentlemen by Emma V. Leech
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    'Flaming June' in the series 'Rogues & Gentlemen' by Emma V. Leech revolves around the story of a ruined young lady, Isabella, who is expecting a baby, and a misunderstood and isolated lord named Henry. The plot follows their unexpected meeting and delves into their evolving relationship, exploring themes of redemption, growth, and understanding. The author, Emma V. Leech, skillfully weaves a tale filled with action, intrigue, friendship, and romance, creating a fast-paced and engaging narrative that captivates readers.

    Despite initial reservations about the characters, especially the unlikeable nature of Isabella at the beginning and the complexity of Henry's character, readers are pleasantly surprised by the character development and the depth of their relationship. The sensitive portrayal of Henry's high functioning autism and Isabella's growth throughout the story are particularly commendable, adding layers of nuance to the narrative. is praised for its unique characters, intriguing plot, and well-written prose, making it an enjoyable and thought-provoking read for fans of historical romance.


  5. #5

    Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike by Phil Knight
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    'Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike' by Phil Knight is a captivating memoir that delves into the journey of entrepreneurship and the creation of the iconic brand Nike. Through Knight's honest and detailed storytelling, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of challenges, failures, and triumphs in building a global company from scratch. The book not only highlights the struggles of an entrepreneur but also provides insights into the personal growth and resilience required to navigate the complexities of business and life.

    Knight's narrative style in 'Shoe Dog' is described as engaging, inspirational, and brutally honest. He shares his experiences with humility, acknowledging his flaws and mistakes along the way. The book is praised for its fast-paced storytelling, approachable writing, and the way Knight connects with readers as if he is personally sharing his journey over a conversation. From the early struggles of Nike to the pivotal moments that shaped the company's success, Knight's memoir is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and unwavering belief in one's vision.

    When I broached the subject with my father, when I worked up the nerve to speak to him about my Crazy Idea, I made sure it was in the early evening. That was always the best time with Dad. He was rela...

  6. #6

    The Fires of Spring by James A. Michener
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    'The Fires of Spring' by James A. Michener is a coming-of-age novel set in the early 20th century, portraying the growth and development of a young boy into adulthood. The story follows the journey of the protagonist as he navigates through poverty, adolescence, and the shaping of his moral compass. Readers appreciated the beautiful prose and the humorous side to the storytelling, which differed from Michener's usual epic novels. Despite not being as lengthy as his other works, this novel captivated readers with its engaging narrative and semi-autobiographical nature.


  7. #7

    The Man Who Loved China by Simon Winchester
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    "The Man Who Loved China" by Simon Winchester tells the fascinating story of the eccentric British scientist Joseph Needham, who dedicated his life to studying and documenting Chinese inventions and technology. Needham's passion for China led him to create the monumental 17-volume "History of Science in China," showcasing the country's significant contributions to the world. Winchester skillfully narrates Needham's adventures, relationships, and scholarly pursuits, offering readers a captivating blend of biography, history, and cultural exploration. Through engaging storytelling and meticulous research, the book sheds light on Needham's remarkable life and his enduring legacy in bridging East and West through the lens of science and civilization.

    The battered old Douglas C-47 Skytrain of the China National Aviation Corporation, its chocolate brown fuselage battle-scarred with bullet holes and dents, shuddered its way down through the rain clou...

  8. #8

    Cold Shot to the Heart - Crissa Stone by Wallace Stroby
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    'Cold Shot to the Heart' in the series 'Crissa Stone' by Wallace Stroby follows the story of Crissa Stone, a career criminal who embarks on a card game heist against her better judgement. The novel is described as an excellent professional thievery thriller, smart, fast-paced, and lean, featuring a protagonist to root for. The plot unfolds with relentless suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and eager to know what happens next. The writing style is atmospheric, well-done, and engaging, drawing readers in deeply and making it a page-turner.

    She took away their guns—snub-noses in belt clip holsters—and dumped them in the flip-top trash can against the wall. All three had been wearing their guns openly, but they hadn’t gone for them. She’d...

  9. #9

    The Listening Walls by Margaret Millar
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    The plot concerns two women who are on vacation in Mexico City. One woman, Wilma, is a domineering, two-time divorcee who hates the world. The other woman, Amy, is her mousy friend. An eavesdropping housekeeper at the hotel describes Wilma and Amy's relationship. Wilma dies by falling out of a hotel window, and Amy then disappears. The setting then shifts to San Francisco, and the novel is told from the perspective of Amy's brother Gill and her husband Rupert. Gill hires a private investigator to try to find out what really happened to Amy. "THE LISTENING WALLS" is the story of two female friends, one loud and obnoxious, the other mousy and insecure, who go to Mexico for a vacation. The loud obnoxious woman commits suicide, and the other woman mysteriously disappears. The missing woman's brother suspects that his sister's husband has done away with her and hires a P.I. to investigate.

    The book is short but what a wild ride! At times, it is hilarious. It unrolls so that the reader gets sufficient information to understand by the ending but is confused along the way. The dynamic between the two women is spot on, as is the creepy relationship between the missing woman and her brother. The men in the club enjoyed the book as much as the women did, which is rare. Millar is very cagey about the details she reveals, which may not seem quite fair if you like a lot of fair play in the mystery. But we thought that this trait was exactly what made the book so suspenseful and made it as much a novel of suspense as a murder mystery.


  10. #10

    Kitty Peck and the Music Hall Murders - Kitty Peck by Kate Griffin
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    'Kitty Peck and the Music Hall Murders' is a historical mystery set in Victorian London, specifically in the seedy world of downmarket music halls and the crime-ridden East End. The story follows Kitty Peck, a likable and strong character, who is tasked by Lady Ginger to investigate the mysterious disappearances of young women connected to the music halls. As Kitty delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers dark secrets and faces a monster hiding in the shadows, all while navigating the depravity, poverty, and crime of the Victorian era. The book captures the atmosphere of the music halls and working-class life in vivid detail, bringing the streets of the East End to life.

    The narrative style of 'Kitty Peck and the Music Hall Murders' is engaging and fast-paced, filled with twists and turns that keep readers entertained and eager to uncover the truth behind the disappearances. The book offers a unique and interesting perspective on Victorian London, with well-developed characters and dramatic scenery that transport readers to a bygone era filled with mystery and intrigue.


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