Books matching: faith and religion
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:In "The Book of Strange New Things" by Michel Faber, the story follows Peter Leigh, a devoted Christian missionary who is selected by a mysterious corporation called USIC to travel to a faraway planet named Oasis to minister to the indigenous population. As Peter navigates his new role on Oasis, he maintains communication with his wife, Bea, who is facing challenges on Earth due to societal collapse and environmental crises. The novel delves into themes of faith, love, communication, and the impact of extreme circumstances on individuals and relationships, all set against the backdrop of a unique sci-fi world.
Michel Faber expertly crafts a narrative that explores complex characters, intricate relationships, and thought-provoking themes through the lens of science fiction. The book presents a compelling story of love transcending space and time, the clash of cultures, the fragility of human connections, and the exploration of faith and religion in unfamiliar territories. Faber's writing style vividly describes the alien planet Oasis, the emotional turmoil of the characters, and the philosophical questions raised throughout the novel.
He was quiet, keeping his eyes on the road. In the darkness of the city’s outskirts, there was nothing to see except the tail-lights of other cars in the distance, the endless unfurling roll of tarmac... - #2
Save:'Dune Messiah' by Frank Herbert is the sequel to the classic 'Dune.' Set twelve years after the events of the first book, it follows Paul Muad'Dib Atreides as he rules as Emperor and deals with the consequences of his actions, including unleashing a jihad that conquered most of the known universe. Readers found the plot to be politically convoluted, with intricate webs of intrigue and backstabbing, and exploring themes of power, religion, and philosophy. The writing style is described as dense, with profound statements regarding political and religious maneuvering, and a focus on analyzing every action and phrase in a philosophical and surreal manner.
Such a rich store of myths enfolds Paul Muad’Dib, the Mentat Emperor, and his sister, Alia, it is difficult to see the real persons behind these veils. But there were, after all, a man born Paul Atrei...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dune ) - #3
Save:'Say Your Prayers' by Kathryn Moon is a unique and raunchy tale set in a post-apocalyptic world where hell has taken over Earth. The story follows a succubus, Deyva, who unexpectedly catches feelings and forms relationships with a fallen angel, Azariah, and three burly priests, including Stavros, Zach, and Kais. As their paths cross, the group led by the priests strives to keep a small community safe amidst the chaos. The book explores themes of love, temptation, faith, and redemption, blending elements of romance, erotica, and supernatural adventures. The writing style is described as engaging, humorous, and steamy, with a mix of action, suspense, and character development that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
- #4
Save:'The God Engines' by John Scalzi is a dark science fictional fantasy novella set in a universe where a totalitarian theocracy rules the stars. The story revolves around a space-faring civilization whose technology is completely dependent on divine power, particularly the gods who are enslaved to power starships. The plot delves into the complexities of faith, power, and the manipulation of gods for human endeavors. The writing style is described as intense, thought-provoking, and with vivid descriptions that create a haunting and terrifying atmosphere.
Captain Ean Tephe entered the god chamber, small lacquered, filigreed chest in hand. He found blood on the deck, an acolyte spurting one and lying shivering on the other, and the god prostrate in its ... - #5
Save:"My Name Is Asher Lev" by Chaim Potok is a novel that follows the life of Asher Lev, a Hasidic Jewish artist, as he navigates the conflict between his artistic passion and his religious heritage. The story delves into Asher's struggles, inner turmoil, and the difficult choices he must make to pursue his art while balancing his family's expectations and cultural traditions. Potok's writing style is described as vivid, detailed, and emotionally engaging, painting a rich picture of Asher's journey of self-discovery and artistic expression.
I am an observant Jew. Yes, of course, observant Jews do not paint crucifixions. As a matter of fact, observant Jews do not paint at all—in the way that I am painting. So strong words are being writte... - #6
Save:'The Hero of Ages' by Brandon Sanderson is the thrilling conclusion to the Mistborn trilogy. The book follows Empress Vin and Emperor Elend as they strive to uncover the mysteries left behind by the Lord Ruler and save their world from impending catastrophe. The plot is fast-paced, with intricate world-building, fabulous character development, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged till the very end. Sanderson's writing style weaves together multiple plot threads, creating a captivating story that ties up loose ends in a satisfying and clever manner.
FATREN SQUINTED UP AT THE RED SUN, which hid behind its perpetual screen of dark haze. Black ash fell lightly from the sky, as it did most days lately. The thick flakes fell straight, the air stagnant...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Mistborn ) - #7
Save:'The Gift of Asher Lev' by Chaim Potok is a sequel to 'My Name is Asher Lev' that follows Asher Lev, a successful artist with a conflicted relationship between his art and his Hasidic Jewish upbringing. The story unfolds twenty years after the first book, as Asher returns to Brooklyn for his uncle's funeral, facing challenges within his family and community. The novel delves into Asher's inner turmoil, artistic integrity, and the sacrifices he must consider for the sake of his family and community, creating a world filled with deep questions of tradition, creativity, and identity.
The narrative of 'The Gift of Asher Lev' is rich in symbolism and imagery, drawing readers into Asher's world where he grapples with difficult choices as a husband, father, and member of the community. The book explores themes of sacrifice, artistic tension, and the complexities of balancing personal desires with communal expectations, offering a compelling and mystic story that delves into the depths of Asher's mind and the relationships that shape his life.
I made many drawings and paintings of Devorah and Rocheleh, but I kept most of them for my own collection and would not show or sell them. I made many drawings and paintings of Paris and of the old on...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Asher Lev ) - #8
Save:In medieval Europe, the book 'The Passion of Dolssa' by Julie Berry follows the intertwined lives of Dolssa, a young noblewoman who speaks of Christ as her Beloved and Botille, a peasant woman who serves as a matchmaker in a small seaside town. When Dolssa is forced to flee the Inquisition, their paths cross unexpectedly, leading to a series of events that change both their lives forever. The plot is engrossing, drawing readers into a dark and sad story set in 15th-century medieval France, with themes of faith, friendship, and sacrifice woven throughout. The writing style is rich in detail, offering a compelling narrative that transports readers to the historical setting.
Mine is the historian’s task, to record the events of the last century, showing God’s mighty hand in ridding these southern lands between the Garona and the Ròse rivers of the heresy of the Albigensia... - #9
Save:Set in the mid-19th century, "Oscar and Lucinda" by Peter Carey tells the story of two unconventional individuals, Oscar, a young English clergyman, and Lucinda, a wealthy independent girl, who meet in Sydney, Australia. Their shared passion for gambling brings them together, despite their differing goals - Oscar's desire to serve God and Lucinda's dream of building a church made of glass. The book is a blend of historical fiction and a love story, with a unique twist that keeps readers engaged until the very end. The writing style is described as clear, engaging, and evocative, drawing readers into the lives of these captivating characters.
If there was a bishop, my mother would have him to tea. She would sit him, not where you would imagine, not at the head of the big oval table, but in the middle of the long side, where, with his back ... 'She Got Up Off the Couch: And Other Heroic Acts from Mooreland, Indiana' by Haven Kimmel is a memoir that follows the coming-of-age tale of a young girl named Zippy in a small town in Indiana. The story revolves around Zippy's observations of her mother's transformation from being a stay-at-home mom to obtaining a Master's degree in English and becoming a teacher, all while dealing with the challenges in her family life. Through seemingly unrelated episodes, the book explores themes of family dynamics, growing up, and the impact of religion on the protagonist's life.
The narrative style of the book is characterized by matter-of-fact storytelling, humor, and poignant reflections on the author's childhood experiences. The author weaves together anecdotes of small-town life in the Midwest, portraying the quirks and challenges of rural living with a mix of light-heartedness and deeper introspection.
A few years ago I wrote some essays about the town in which I grew up. Mooreland, Indiana, was paradise for a child — my old friend Rose and I have often said so — small, flat, entirely knowable. When...
