Books matching: epic saga
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- #1
'Roma' by Steven Saylor is a historical novel that spans the history of Rome from its earliest times to the end of the Republic. The book follows the descendants of two families through various stages of history, blending historical accuracy with imaginative storytelling. The narrative structure introduces readers to different time periods and characters, providing insights into the evolution of Rome through the ages.
The book covers significant events in Roman history, intertwining them with the lives of fictional characters from the Potitii and Pinarii families. Steven Saylor's writing style is praised for being accessible, well-researched, and filled with historical details that bring ancient Rome to life. The novel presents a readable and plausible presentation of a thousand years of Roman development, making it an engaging read for those interested in the history of Western civilization.
As they rounded a bend in the path that ran beside the river, Lara recognized the silhouette of a fig tree atop a nearby hill. The weather was hot and the days were long. The fig tree was in full leaf... - #2
'Kane and Abel' by Jeffrey Archer is a gripping saga spanning almost a century, following the lives of two men, William Kane and Abel Rosnovski, born on the same day in 1906 but into vastly different circumstances. William is born into wealth in Boston, while Abel is born into Polish poverty. The plot revolves around their intertwined lives, bitter rivalry, and relentless struggle to build an empire, fueled by deep-seated hatred and misunderstandings. The story covers major historical events of the twentieth century and is cleverly woven with emotionally rich family histories, reflecting Archer's staccato writing style.
The narrative unfolds with a compelling conflict that captivates readers, drawing them into a tale of pride, vendetta, and misplaced hatred that spans over 30 years, tearing apart a family due to a wild coincidence. delves into the characters' ambitions, motivations, and eventual emergence as powerful competitors, showcasing the author's flair for storytelling and his ability to create suspenseful and emotionally engaging plots that keep readers hooked till the end.
The young boy who was hunting rabbits in the forest was not sure whether it was the woman’s last cry or the child’s first that alerted his youthful ears. He turned, sensing possible danger, his eyes s... - #3
Carpentaria by Alexis Wright is an epic novel that delves into the lives of isolated communities near Carpentaria Bay in northern Australia. The story involves feuding Aboriginals, vindictive Anglos, and destructive employees of an international mine, all intertwined with elements of nature, mysticism, and Aboriginal traditions. The author, being Aboriginal herself, intricately weaves together people, events, and words in a circular narrative that mirrors the movements of the Great Serpent, bringing out themes of human distress, terror, and joy. Wright's unique writing style captures the essence of the region, blending humor, slang, and lyrical prose to create a richly human story full of larger-than-life characters and powerful storytelling.
A NATION CHANTS, BUT WE KNOW YOUR STORY ALREADY. THE BELLS PEAL EVERYWHERE. CHURCH BELLS CALLING THE FAITHFUL TO THE TABERNACLE WHERE THE GATES OF HEAVEN WILL OPEN, BUT NOT FOR THE WICKED. CALLING INN... - #4
Lawrence Hill's 'Someone Knows My Name' is a powerful historical fiction novel that follows the life of Aminata Diallo, a young girl from West Africa who is abducted and sold into slavery. The book vividly portrays Aminata's harrowing journey across continents, from Africa to America, and her relentless fight for freedom. Through the eyes of Aminata, readers experience the brutal realities of the slave trade, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring power of hope amidst unimaginable suffering. The narrative weaves together themes of loss, survival, love, and the quest for identity, offering a poignant and enlightening exploration of the dark chapters of history.
The book is characterized by its richly detailed plot, compelling characters, and the author's masterful storytelling that seamlessly blends historical facts with fictional elements. Lawrence Hill's meticulous research shines through in the authenticity of the narrative, providing readers with a profound insight into the horrors of slavery and the strength of those who resisted it. Aminata's journey serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable human will and the enduring legacy of those who fought against oppression and injustice.
I SEEM TO HAVE TROUBLE DYING. By all rights, I should not have lived this long. But I still can smell trouble riding on any wind, just as surely as I could tell you whether it is a stew of chicken nec... - #5
'Cathedral of the Sea' by Ildefonso Falcones is a historical novel set in 14th-century Barcelona during the construction of the Santa Maria del Mar cathedral. The story follows the life of Arnau Estanyol, a peasant freeman tradesman, as he navigates through the horrors of war, plague, and the Inquisition. The narrative covers various historical events and social classes, providing a vivid depiction of medieval Barcelona.
The writing style of the book is engaging and well-researched, offering readers an immersive experience into the life and struggles of the characters. The plot revolves around Arnau's journey from a humble beginning to significant wealth, intertwined with the challenges of the time period, such as feudal laws, religious authorities, and societal norms. While drawing comparisons to 'Pillars of the Earth,' the book stands out for its detailed descriptions of medieval Barcelona and its characters' compelling story arcs.
BERNAT REALIZED NOBODY was looking in his direction, and glanced up at the clear blue sky. The weak late September sun played on the faces of his guests. He had put so much time and effort into prepar... - #6
"City of Dreams" by Beverly Swerling follows the story of a sister and brother, Lucas and Sally Turner, who settle in the Dutch settlement of Nieuw Amsterdam in 1661. The Turners establish themselves as a barber doctor and an apothecary specialist and become entangled in the long and combative relationship between the Turners and the Devereys over several centuries. The plot spans over a hundred and fifty years, showcasing the emergence of New York from a small Dutch settlement to becoming the world's capital city, all intertwined with colorful characters and detailed accounts of historical events. The writing style is described as magnificent, with impeccable research and a blend of 'spice' and flavor, making the reading experience enjoyable and thrilling.
There was a wooden wharf of sorts, but two ships were already moored alongside it. The Princess dropped anchor some fifty yards away, and a raft carried them to shore. It wasn’t big enough to take eve... - #7
'Gangster' by Lorenzo Carcaterra is an epic saga of violence and destiny that follows the life of Angelo Vestieri, from a soldier to a mob boss. The novel is filled with elements of friendship, betrayal, love, and brutal violence, reminiscent of 'The Godfather'. Carcaterra's writing style weaves together a spellbinding tale with memorable characters that evolve throughout the narrative. The story unfolds as Angelo takes in an orphan boy, reshaping his perspective on life and leading to a poignant exploration of forgiveness and redemption.
Angelo's journey is intricately linked with his close childhood friend, Pudge Nichols, as they rise to power in the gangster world of Hells Kitchen in New York City. The narrative delves into the hearts and minds of these characters, providing insight into organized crime, different ethnic crime groups, and the complexities of the gangster state of mind. captivates readers with its rich historical context, unexpected twists, and profound exploration of life, loyalty, and the impact of one's choices.
They did not stir in him a taste for nostalgia or loves lost. He saw in them only one purpose—to harden the shell he had chiseled with care, the one that hid all that could be deemed vulnerable and ke... - #8
The Eye of the World, the first book in The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan, follows the epic journey of two young women and three young men as they leave their small village in the Two Rivers. The series introduces readers to a richly detailed world with a well-thought-out magic system and a diverse cast of characters. The plot is filled with adventure, danger, magic, darkness, and brave deeds, capturing the readers' imagination and keeping them on the edge of their seats.
The writing style in The Eye of the World is described as well-written, fast-paced, and engaging, with a richly detailed world that immerses readers into the story. The book sets the bar high for the rest of the series, delivering a stirring tale of small-town folk who find themselves embroiled in a frightening scenario beyond their wildest imaginations. Despite some comparisons to other fantasy stories, The Eye of the World is praised for being the beginning of a unique series that offers a fresh take on the epic fantasy genre.
The palace still shook occasionally as the earth rumbled in memory, groaned as if it would deny what had happened. Bars of sunlight cast through rents in the walls made motes of dust glitter where the... - #9
In the first installment of The Farseer Trilogy, "Assassin's Apprentice," readers are introduced to FitzChivalry Farseer, the bastard son of a prince, who is raised in a dangerous position where there are people who want him dead. Swearing allegiance to his grandfather the king, Fitz becomes an apprentice to the royal assassin, navigating a world filled with courtly intrigue, political tensions, and the looming threat to his life. The book is praised for its in-depth story, intricate world-building, and fantastic character development, setting the stage for a tale full of twists and intrigue.
A history of the Six Duchies is of necessity a history of its ruling family, the Farseers. A complete telling would reach back beyond the founding of the First Duchy, and if such names were remembered... - #10
'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett is a historical novel set in medieval England, following the lives of various characters intertwined through the construction of a cathedral in the town of Kingsbridge. The narrative spans over decades, exploring themes of ambition, power, politics, love, and betrayal during the 12th century. The book delves into the challenges faced by individuals from different social backgrounds, including monks, nobles, and peasants, as they navigate through the turbulent times of the Middle Ages.
The storytelling in 'The Pillars of the Earth' is characterized by its epic scope, rich historical detail, and intricate character development. Readers are drawn into a world filled with vivid descriptions of life in medieval England, emphasizing the struggles and triumphs of the central characters involved in the monumental task of building a cathedral. The novel weaves together elements of suspense, drama, romance, and political intrigue, offering a captivating portrayal of a bygone era and the enduring human spirit that drives individuals to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their dreams.
The walls were already three feet high and rising fast. The two masons Tom had engaged were working steadily in the sunshine, their trowels going scrape, slap and then tap, tap while their laborer swe...