Books matching: flawed hero
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- #1
Save:'Domain' by James Herbert is the final installment in the 'Rats' series, set in a post-nuclear apocalyptic world where London is destroyed by a nuclear attack. The story follows a group of survivors, including helicopter pilot Culver and government official Dealey, as they navigate the dangers of the wasteland filled with radiation sickness, feral dogs, and primal violence. The book balances a sense of hopeless despair with a satisfying ending, offering a different take on the horror genre by making the mutant rats less central to the story and focusing more on the overall dystopian dangers.
They had learned to become still, to be the darkness, when the huge monsters roared above and filled the tunnels with thunder, assaulting the black refuge—their cold, damp sanctuary—with rushing light...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Rats ) - #2
Save:'For Kicks' by Dick Francis is a mystery novel set in the world of English horse racing. The story follows Daniel Roke, a successful stud farm owner from Australia, who goes undercover as a stablehand in England to uncover a doping ring that is threatening the reputation of the British racing industry. As Roke delves deeper into his investigation, he faces dangerous situations and tests his limits, all while trying to prove himself in a high-stakes mission. The book is praised for its well-drawn characters, intriguing plot, and engaging writing style that keeps readers hooked until the end.
I noticed the car turn in through the gateposts as I walked across the little paddock towards the house, and I watched its progress up our short private road with a jaundiced eye. Salesmen, I thought,... - #3
Save:Ten years after the events of the Red Rising trilogy, 'Iron Gold' revisits old characters like Darrow, now married to Mustang and with a child named Pax, as well as introduces new lead characters like Lyria, Lysander, and Ephraim. The novel explores the impact of war on different individuals and delves into themes of survival, pain, and hope in a bleak but compelling narrative. The story unfolds from four different points of view, offering a wider scope to the plot and showcasing Pierce Brown's ability to craft tension and emotional depth in a world filled with political intrigue and complex characters.
The fourth book in the Red Rising series shifts from the young adult genre to a more mature narrative, focusing on the aftermath of the revolution and the challenges faced by Darrow and other protagonists in navigating a changed world. With a mix of action, politics, and character development, 'Iron Gold' presents a complex and imaginative continuation of the series, blending elements of epic storytelling with emotional moments that resonate with readers.
WEARY, I WALK UPON FLOWERS at the head of an army. Petals carpet the last of the stone road before me. Thrown by children from windows, they twirl lazily down from the steel towers that grow to either...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Red Rising Saga ) - #4
Save:"One Rough Man" by Brad Taylor follows the story of Pike Logan, a former military operative who is haunted by a tragic event involving his family. Despite his personal struggles, Pike gets involved in a mission with a college student, Jennifer Cahill, to prevent a dangerous weapon from falling into the wrong hands. The plot is filled with intense action, global chase scenes, and political intrigue, keeping the readers on the edge of their seats. The writing style is fast-paced, with a focus on detailed special forces operations and the dynamics between the main characters as they navigate through dangerous situations.
The target took a shortcut, unwittingly shaving another four minutes off of life as he knew it. His appearance surprised me, because I had parked in an alley specifically to get out of his line of mar... - #5
Save:Hardwired by Walter Jon Williams is a cyberpunk thriller that presents a somewhat dark vision of earth's future. The novel details the attempts of a few individuals to remain free in a world dominated by evil human overlords and new technology. Set in a post-apocalyptic urban cyberpunk landscape with elements of military SF and western, the book follows deeply flawed heroes navigating through inhuman circumstances and engaging in high-octane adventures.
By midnight he knows his discontent will not let him sleep. The panzerboy drives north from Santa Fe, over the Sangre de Cristos on the high road through Truchas, heading for Colorado, wanting to get ... - #6
Save:'Back of Beyond' by C.J. Box follows the story of Cody Hoyt, an alcoholic detective, who is suspended from the police force after refusing to accept that a burnt down cabin was a tragic accident. When his son joins a wilderness trip in Yellowstone park, Cody suspects a murderer may be among the participants, leading him on a suspenseful journey to uncover the truth and protect his son. The plot is fast-paced, filled with twists and turns, and set against the stunning backdrop of Yellowstone National Park.
The writing style of 'Back of Beyond' combines elements of a modern western with a gripping crime thriller, featuring well-developed characters and a mystery that keeps the readers engaged. The author, C.J. Box, expertly weaves a tale of suspense, human interest, and wilderness adventure, creating a story that challenges the protagonist to confront his demons and solve a series of murders in the unforgiving wilderness of Yellowstone.
The night before Cody Hoyt shot the county coroner, he was driving without a purpose in his county Ford Expedition as he often did these days. He was agitated and restless, chain-smoking cigarettes un... - #7
Save:"Dourado" by David Wood follows the adventures of Dane Maddock, a former Navy SEAL turned salvage diver, as he embarks on a thrilling treasure hunt that begins with the sunken wreck of a ship called Dourado. Joined by his irreverent partner Bones and the daughter of his former commanding officer, Maddock faces off against mysterious adversaries in exotic locations around the world. The plot unfolds swiftly, blending elements of adventure, faith, history, and excitement, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Wood's writing style is described as fast-paced, action-packed, and reminiscent of a cross between Dan Brown and early Clive Cussler, with well-developed characters that fit seamlessly into the engaging and believable plot.
As the story progresses, the characters are swept up into an international conspiracy, with the final scenes taking place in Petra, showcasing Wood's detailed research and immersive storytelling. The novel delves into themes of archaeological treasure, ancient artifacts, and the power struggles of the early church in Rome, adding layers of depth and intrigue to the narrative. Despite some mixed reviews regarding the introduction of aliens and angels in the plot, "Dourado" ultimately delivers a satisfying blend of adventure, mystery, and historical revelations that captivate readers till the very end.
- #8
Save:Heroes: Mortals and Monsters, Quests and Adventures by Stephen Fry is a continuation of his previous book, Mythos, where he retells the stories of Greek heroes such as Perseus, Heracles, Jason, Atalanta, and Oedipus. Fry's writing style infuses humor and cheek into these well-known tales, making them relatable and engaging for readers. The book includes modern elements like slang to make the stories more accessible, while also staying true to the classical illustrations that enhance the presentation beautifully.
Fry's narration style brings these ancient Greek myths to life, making the experiences of reading immensely enjoyable. The book covers the adventures of various heroes with Fry's signature heart and humor, making the tales vivid, uncomplicated, and evocative. Despite some modern touches, the book stays true to the essence of Greek mythology, portraying the flaws and complexities of the heroes in a captivating manner.
Acrisius loved his daughter and only child DANAË,fn2 but he loved life more. It was clear from the oracle that he should do everything in his power to prevent any male of breeding age from getting clo...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Mythos ) - #9
Save:"Hot Springs" by Stephen Hunter is a hard-boiled noir novel set in 1946 Hot Springs, Arkansas, where crime boss Owney Madden introduces gambling and prostitution with the help of the Grumley family. The district attorney enlists Earl Swagger, a Medal of Honor winner haunted by his past, to combat the mob's corruption. As casino raids escalate into intense combat, Earl and his team navigate a world of deception, facing off against mobsters and politicians. The story delves into Earl's complex character, his inner turmoil, and his quest for redemption in a post-war era filled with danger and mistrust.
The author paints a vivid picture of 1946 Hot Springs, capturing the celestial beauty and the filthy underbelly of the town with cinematic detail. seamlessly weaves real historical figures such as Bugsy Siegel and Virginia Hill into a fictional narrative, creating a thrilling and immersive tale of redemption, triumph, and hope amidst a backdrop of intrigue and conflict.
Each morning he shaved carefully with a well-stropped razor, buttoned a clean, crackly starched white shirt, tied a black string tie in a bow knot. Then he pulled up his suspenders and put on his blac... - #10
Save:Perihelion Summer by Greg Egan is a science fiction novella that presents a climate change disaster scenario caused by a pair of small black holes disrupting Earth's orbit. The story follows the protagonist, Matt, as he navigates through the challenges of impending high tides and the need to lead a group of refugees to survivable conditions in Antarctica. Egan's writing style is characterized by a commitment to hard science fiction, rational characters, and a focus on exploring urgent adaptation without assigning blame or denial typically associated with climate change narratives.
Matt’s parents threw a party for New Year’s Eve, filling the house and garden with people and food, music and liquor. His mother had sent invitations to the rest of the crew, but Matt knew that on the...
