Books matching: epic journey
100 result(s)
- #1
Empires of Sand by David Ball is a historical adventure fiction novel set in the 19th century, dividing its narrative between Paris and the Sahara during the Franco-Prussian War. The book follows French protagonists through a tale of action, love, and cultural narrative, immersing readers in a world of intrigue, deception, and forbidden love on an exotic stage. The writing style is described as old-school adventure with a vibe reminiscent of stories like Indiana Jones, focusing on detailed historical events and rich character development.
“The children! Hold fire!” It was too late. The gun roared and kicked back against the huntsman’s shoulder. It was a long shot, a hundred and fifty meters or more. He had almost not seen the boar, nea... - #2
"Ironfire" by David Ball is a historical novel set in the 16th century Mediterranean, primarily focused around Malta and culminating in the Siege of Malta. The story follows the intertwined lives of three main characters - a brother and sister from Malta and a French knight - as they navigate through the conflicts between Christianity and Islam during the era. The book is praised for its detailed descriptions of locations like Malta, Istanbul, and France, as well as for blending fictional and real-life characters seamlessly into a family saga about home and belonging.
The writing style of "Ironfire" is commended for its ability to transport readers to the 16th century, immersing them in the intricacies of the novel. The author, David Ball, is lauded for his thorough research and creative storytelling that brings to life the historical events of the time, such as the Siege of Malta, in a captivating and engaging manner.
They didn’t see the dead sentry hanging upside down on the watchtower. It was Bartholomeo, an older boy who lived on their own street, his throat cut deep as he slept, cut from ear to ear. His blood h... - #3
The Dog of the South by Charles Portis is a humorous and absurdist tale following the journey of Ray Midge, a man whose wife runs off with his best friend, taking his car and credit card. Determined to track them down, Ray embarks on a road trip from Arkansas to Belize, encountering eccentric characters like Dr. Reo Symes along the way. The plot is filled with quirky conversations and preposterous situations, creating a unique and entertaining narrative style that blends humor with subtle observations about human nature.
MY WIFE NORMA had run off with Guy Dupree and I was waiting around for the credit card billings to come in so I could see where they had gone. I was biding my time. This was October. They had taken my... 'The Prize: The Epic Quest for Oil, Money, and Power' by Daniel Yergin is a comprehensive history of the global oil industry, exploring the impact of oil on modern society, economies, and politics. The book delves into the intertwined narratives of power, innovation, and greed that have shaped the oil industry and its influence on nations, wars, and fortunes. Yergin's writing style is engaging, providing a well-balanced mix of historical facts and captivating storytelling that keeps readers immersed in the epic journey of oil through the ages.
A professor’s salary in the 1850s was hardly generous, and in the quest for extra income, Benjamin Silliman, Jr., the son of a great American chemist and himself a distinguished professor of chemistry...- #5
'Raptor' by Gary Jennings is a historical fiction novel that follows the fictitious memoirs of Thorn, a hermaphrodite who embarks on a journey during the time of Theodoric the Great and the Ostrogoths. Thorn navigates through a world filled with historical events, battles, and intrigues, taking on different identities as necessary to survive. The book delves into themes of violence, taboo sex, and a critical perspective on religion, all while providing a deep historical context and exploring the complexities of the human condition.
The writing style of Gary Jennings in 'Raptor' is praised for its detailed descriptions that vividly paint pictures of war, sex, religion, and cultural clashes. Readers appreciate Jennings' ability to intertwine historical facts with fiction seamlessly, creating a storyline that keeps them engaged and intrigued. The characters, especially Thorn, are complex and multi-dimensional, adding layers of depth to the narrative and making the novel a compelling read.
That happened during my childhood in the great round valley called the Balsan Hrinkhen. I was perhaps twelve years old, and I was at my scullion labors in the abbey's cookhouse, and a certain Brother ... - #6
"Geomancer" by Ian Irvine is a fantasy novel set in a world plagued by war for 150 years, where humanity's enemy, the Lyrinx, pose a formidable threat. The story follows Tiaan, an artisan working in a factory, who finds herself on an epic journey after a life-changing event. The book features complex characters, detailed world-building, and a mix of magic, energy, and technology. Despite some criticisms about pacing and character development, readers find the book intriguing and engaging, with a unique and well-developed universe.
Tiaan could hear her foreman’s fury from halfway across the manufactory. Doors were kicked open, workers cursed out of the way, stools slapped aside with his sword. ‘Where the blazes is Tiaan?’ he roa... The Songbird and the Heart of Stone by Carissa Broadbent is an epic fantasy romance that follows Mische, a complex and flawed character grappling with her past and her loyalty to the sun god who abandoned her. Sentenced to death for murder, Mische is saved by Asar, the exiled necromancer prince, and together they embark on a challenging quest through the underworld to resurrect Nyaxia's husband, the god of death. Throughout the story, readers are drawn into Mische's painful history with religious trauma, loyalty, and the quest for forgiveness, all while she navigates a slow-burn romance with Asar, who shares his own scars and complexities.
- #8
'Omeros' by Derek Walcott is an epic poem that spans many years of history, blending personal and international events while encompassing the sea and land of the Caribbean and America. The book is a reimagining of The Odyssey, set in St. Lucia, focusing on the island's history of conquest, extermination, and slavery. The narrative weaves together the lives of fishermen, a mysterious woman named Helen, and a retired English major, creating a rich tapestry of classical allusions and historical events.
- #9
'Heart of the Country' by Greg Matthews is an expansive novel set in the 1800s United States, focusing on the taming of the West and the slaughter of the buffalo. The story is narrated from the perspective of an intellectual hunchback named Joe Cobden, who faces a life filled with hardship and suffering. The writing style is described as impressive, offering a riveting storyline that delves into America's historical events during that era. Readers appreciated the detailed background on travel, the buffalo's history, and insights into the status of women in the West at the time.
The narrative unfolds with an epic scope akin to a Charles Dickens story, portraying the trials and hardships faced by characters in the 1800s. Despite initial challenges with random character introductions and seemingly aimless plotlines, the author, Greg Matthews, skillfully weaves the story together, engaging readers with deeply flawed yet compelling characters and intersecting plotlines that ultimately lead to a rewarding reading experience.
Unfinished Tales of Numenor and Middle-Earth by J.R.R. Tolkien is a collection of narratives that provide additional depth and background to the world of Middle-earth. The book delves into various aspects of Tolkien's legendarium, including expanded stories on wizards, rings, and the history of Middle-earth. It offers readers insight into Tolkien's subcreation and showcases his mastery in fantasy literature by treating his legends as a researched history.
The book includes unfinished tales and rough drafts that were never completed for publication, providing a glimpse into Tolkien's storytelling process. The narratives range from detailed accounts of characters like Tuor and Túrin to explorations of the Kingdom of Númenor and the fall of Gondolin. Christopher Tolkien's commentary helps situate these stories within the broader context of Tolkien's works, offering readers a deeper understanding of the world and lore created by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Rían, wife of Huor, dwelt with the people of the House of Hador; but when rumour came to Dor-lómin of the Nirnaeth Arnoediad, and yet she could hear no news of her lord, she became distraught and wand...