Books matching: gender bending
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- #1
Save:A clever, comical fantasy romp that’s both a spoof and a love letter to the genre - perfect for anyone craving a light-hearted, twisty adventure (just don’t expect all the answers by the final page!).
Dragon Princess by S. Andrew Swann is a humorous and fast-paced high fantasy adventure that plays with familiar tropes. The story follows Frank, a thieving hero who unexpectedly finds himself in the body of a princess he was supposed to rescue. As he navigates the challenges of his new identity, complete with a dragon, gambling problems, and mercenaries, he experiences significant personal growth amidst a series of unpredictable disasters.
Swann's writing style is fluid and engaging, filled with witty banter and clever characters. The plot is characterized by comical situations that keep readers guessing, as expectations are cleverly subverted at every turn. Despite some inconsistencies in character development and an unconventional ending that leaves room for a sequel, Dragon Princess captivates with its charm and humor, making it a delightful read for fans of fantasy looking for something fresh.
While it is customary to delegate such duties to historians, scribes, poets, minstrels, and such, there are two primary reasons I’m taking on this duty myself. First, I’m not a person of historical no...May 2014•337 pages - #2
Save:Witty, fast, and unexpectedly heartfelt - a must-read for anyone who likes their sci-fi with humor and heart, but come for the robots and stay for Murderbot’s dry charm.
In "All Systems Red," readers are introduced to Murderbot, a rogue cyborg struggling to navigate its identity and emotions while protecting a survey team on a routine mission that quickly turns into a complex web of conspiracy and danger. The novella delves into themes of artificial intelligence, personhood, empathy, and the blurred lines between human and non-human entities. Through Murderbot's unique perspective and wry narration, the story unfolds as a mix of action, mystery, and character exploration, offering a fresh take on the sci-fi genre.
I COULD HAVE BECOME a mass murderer after I hacked my governor module, but then I realized I could access the combined feed of entertainment channels carried on the company satellites. It had been wel...2017•165 pages - #3
Save:A unique, thoughtful fantasy that plays with perspective, power, and myth - a must-read for fans of inventive storytelling and clever worldbuilding, but possibly too offbeat for readers seeking traditional epic adventure.
'The Raven Tower' by Ann Leckie is a unique fantasy novel that delves into the relationship between gods and humans, exploring the consequences of a world where gods' words hold immense power. The story follows a murder mystery in a fantasy setting, narrated by an ageless god fixed in a stone, and a quiet soldier named Eolo who sets out to solve the mystery of a missing leader and a deceased god, all while navigating complex political and supernatural dynamics. The writing style of the book is described as original, inventive, and thought-provoking, with a second-person narration that offers a fresh perspective on the fantasy genre.
I first saw you when you rode out of the forest, past the cluster of tall, bulge-eyed offering stakes that mark the edges of the forest, your horse at a walk. You rode beside Mawat, himself a familiar...February 2019•345 pages - #4
Save:A colorful, unapologetic romp through queer Victorian London - sexy, layered, and unforgettable. If you want bold characters and a unique twist on historical coming-of-age, dive in!
'Tipping the Velvet' by Sarah Waters is a historical fiction novel set in the 1890s in London, following the story of Nancy Astley, a young oyster girl who falls in love with a male impersonator named Kitty Butler. The book explores Nancy's journey as she follows Kitty into the world of theaters, working as a dresser before becoming a performer herself. The novel delves into themes of lesbian love, gender roles, and self-discovery in Victorian England. The writing style is described as sensual, detailed, and engaging, providing a vivid picture of the lesbian society in the 18th century.
The plot of 'Tipping the Velvet' is divided into three acts, each peopled with vibrant characters and told in lushly written prose. The book captures the sexual growing pains and challenges faced by Nancy as she navigates the complexities of love, identity, and societal expectations. While some readers found the protagonist to be flat or the plot soap-operatic, others praised the realistic characters, compelling storytelling, and historical accuracy in depicting London's lesbian society during that era.
Have you ever tasted a Whitstable oyster? If you have, you will remember it. Some quirk of the Kentish coastline makes Whitstable natives - as they are properly called - the largest and the juiciest,...1998•478 pages - #5
Save:A fun, frothy, smartly outrageous blend of steampunk and Shakespearean comedy - ideal for those who love inventive worldbuilding, theatrical twists, and don’t mind if things get a little over-the-top.
'All Men of Genius' by Lev A.C. Rosen is a steampunk adventure set in a Victorian alternative world where a brilliant engineer named Violet disguises herself as her twin brother to attend an elite all-male technical school. The story follows Violet's journey at Illyria College, her struggles with gender expectations, her complex relationships with other characters, and the unraveling of a sinister plot. The writing style combines elements of Shakespearean comedy and Wildean farce, with a focus on intricate world-building, character development, and a touch of humor.
VIOLET and Ashton’s father was leaving for America to help decide where time should begin. It was Violet’s duty to retrieve her brother and bring him to the door to say good-bye, but he was not paying...September 2011•464 pages - #6
Save:Winterlong is a beautifully strange, boundary-pushing sci-fi novel that will haunt you long after you finish - perfect for adventurous readers who don’t mind a dark and twisty ride.
'Winterlong' by Elizabeth Hand is a post-apocalyptic novel set in a world devastated by mutagens used as weapons. The plot involves a unique blend of dystopian elements, gender-bending characters, and an original world-building concept that captivates readers. The narrative follows characters like Wendy, Miss Scarlet, and Jane Alopex as they navigate a society torn apart by chemical warfare and genetic engineering, all while dealing with themes of trauma and self-discovery. The book is known for its disturbing yet beautifully described setting, challenging readers to confront its dark themes while appreciating the exquisite writing style that Elizabeth Hand employs.
The writing style of 'Winterlong' by Elizabeth Hand has been praised for its complexity and originality, with readers describing it as mind-bending, challenging, and beautifully written. The book seamlessly weaves together multiple narrators, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives that add depth to the post-apocalyptic world. Despite the dark subject matter, the novel is lauded for its ability to deliver on both the theater elements and the exploration of a unique society, making it a compelling read for those interested in speculative fiction with a twist.
I AM WITHIN HER, a cerebral shadow. Distant canyons where spectral lightning flashes: neurons firing as I tap in to the heart of the poet, the dark core where desire and horror fuse and Morgan turns e...September 1990•528 pages - #7
Save:An imaginative, darkly funny ride with stellar worldbuilding and a truly one-of-a-kind heroine - perfect for those who want their fantasy strange, smart, and just a little bit unhinged.
Vigor Mortis: Volume 1 by Natalie Maher is set in a world of floating islands, where society grapples with the morality of necromancy. The story centers on a homeless girl, who unexpectedly gains powerful necromancy skills, considered illegal in her world, and must navigate the danger posed by the church and her own emerging identity. As she struggles with her powers, themes of empathy and moral ambiguity unfold, drawing the reader into a dark yet engaging narrative.
Thundamoo's writing style is characterized by rich world-building and intricate character development. Each character feels authentic and complex, with their own motivations and moral struggles. The narrative blends humor with existential themes, creating a balance that keeps readers invested. While the pace can swing between slow and fast, the storytelling is compelling enough to invite readers back for more, making it a noteworthy addition to the progression fantasy genre.
June 2021•469 pages - #8
Save:A Psalm for the Wild-Built is a soothing, philosophical gem - perfect if you want cozy introspection and a hopeful, human-centric future. Not much dramatic action, but a lot of heart and questions worth pondering.
In a future where robots have gained sentience and separated from humans to live in the wilderness, a monk named Dex sets out on a journey to find meaning in their life. Along the way, Dex encounters a robot named Mosscap, and the two embark on an adventure to explore the essence of life and humanity. The novella delves into themes of purpose, consciousness, and the interconnections of nature, offering a gentle and hopeful narrative that captivates readers with its insightful examination of finding meaning in life.
The book presents a post-apocalyptic world where humans have achieved a sustainable and ecological society, free from societal issues like racism and classism. Through the friendship that develops between Dex and Mosscap, the story explores the balance between technology and nature, while touching on philosophical questions about purpose and self-discovery. The writing style is described as kind, warm, and charming, offering a soothing and introspective reading experience that leaves readers feeling hopeful about the future.
Sometimes, a person reaches a point in their life when it becomes absolutely essential to get the fuck out of the city. It doesn’t matter if you’ve spent your entire adult life in a city, as was the c...July 2021•164 pages - #9Hana-Kimi: For You in Full Blossom, Vol. 1by:Book 1 in the series:Hana-Kimi: For You in Full Blossom
Save:A fun, feel-good manga packed with comedy, friendship, and gender-bending chaos - perfect for shojo fans in need of a pick-me-up, though some characters might not click for everyone.
In "Hana-Kimi: For You in Full Blossom, Vol. 1", readers are introduced to Mizuki, a 16-year-old Japanese American girl who disguises herself as a boy to enroll in a boys' high school in Japan in order to be closer to her idol, the high jumper Sano Izumi. The story follows Mizuki's struggles to keep her identity a secret while navigating dorm life filled with attractive guys and encouraging her friends to keep competing in various activities. The plot is light-hearted and humorous, with elements of sports, romance, and gender-bending humor intertwined in the narrative.
The author, Hisaya Nakajo, weaves a tale that combines action, romance, drama, and comedy to create a story that appeals to both male and female readers. The writing style is engaging and playful, with relatable characters like Mizuki, Nakatsu, and Sano, each adding their own unique dynamic to the storyline. The artwork is praised for its basic sketches, funny facial expressions, and ability to convey a lot of story in the first volume, enhancing the overall reading experience.
September 2004•177 pages - #10
Save:A smart, breezy romp that mixes the magic of Shakespeare with fantastical fairy drama - delightful for literary buffs and fantasy fans, though not everyone will be charmed by its playful liberties or its pacing.
Ill Met by Moonlight by Sarah A. Hoyt is a unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy, exploring a fictional story about young William Shakespeare. The plot revolves around Shakespeare's quest to rescue his wife, Anne Hathaway, who has been captured by the tyrannical elf king, Sylvanus. Shakespeare's encounters with magical beings, particularly the cunning Puckish character, Quicksilver, add a fantastical twist to the story, engaging readers with themes of love, loss, and revenge, while also hinting at the inspiration behind Shakespeare's iconic works.
An Elizabethan town of whitewashed wattle-and-daub buildings, nestled in the curve of the gentle-flowing Avon. Ducklings waddle in the current and pigs walk the streets. Tall elms grow amid the houses...1994•300 pages
