Books matching: gritty narrative
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- #1
Save:'The Seer King' by Chris Bunch is a dark, imaginative fantasy novel that follows the adventures of the character Damastes. The book is praised for its world-building, captivating writing style, and original characters like the wizard Tenedos. Despite some editing errors and predictability in the plot, readers are drawn into the story filled with adventure, battle descriptions, and detailed sex scenes.
If it hadn’t been for those five goals, the adjutant’s pride, his lying, and my subsequent disgrace, another officer might have been sent to Sulem Pass, one with less to lose, and Laish Tenedos might ... - #2
Save:'Red Country' by Joe Abercrombie is a gritty and brutal tale set in a fantasy western world where not very nice people make hard decisions and face the consequences. The story follows familiar characters from previous installments as they embark on a journey filled with violence, revenge, and unexpected alliances, blending elements of western and fantasy genres seamlessly.
The novel is praised for its engaging storytelling, sharp dialogues, and well-developed characters struggling with their flaws and pasts. Abercrombie's writing style is described as fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with wit, sarcasm, and dark humor, making 'Red Country' a satisfying and entertaining read for fans of the author's work.
They sat in front of Stupfer’s Meat House, which might’ve sounded like a brothel but was actually the worst place to eat within fifty miles, and that with some fierce competition. Shy perched on the s...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series First Law ) - #3
Save:Brenna, a former princess of the Aces Motorcycle Club, escapes from her abusive husband and returns to the club with her daughter, Lily. She reconnects with Dragon, a club member and Lily's father, leading to a tumultuous journey towards their happily ever after. The book portrays the gritty and authentic life within the motorcycle club, showcasing flawed characters and tough situations. As Brenna navigates her past mistakes and secrets, Dragon grapples with his feelings for her despite his anger and resentment.
The writing style of "Craving Constellations" by Nicole Jacquelyn is described as real, rough, and authentic, capturing the raw emotions and complexities of the characters' relationships. The plot unfolds with intense moments of love, betrayal, forgiveness, and redemption, creating a rollercoaster of emotions for the readers.
I’d spent the last five years running, and now, it seemed I was going to have to retrace every excruciating step. My heart told me that nothing good could come from heading back to the place I’d grown... - #4
Save:In the grimdark fantasy novel 'Blackwing' by Ed McDonald, readers are introduced to a bleak world where mortals struggle against the odds imposed by godlike beings. The protagonist, Captain Galharrow, commands the Blackwings, a paramilitary force tasked with battling monsters created by the Deep Kings to reactivate Nall's Engine. As the story unfolds, Galharrow navigates a dangerous landscape known as the Misery, filled with twisted creatures and supernatural dangers, all while uncovering a conspiracy that threatens the world as he knows it. McDonald's writing style is described as dark, twisted, and filled with gruesome scenes, redefining grimdark fantasy for many readers.
SOMEBODY warned them that we were coming. The sympathisers left nothing behind but an empty apartment and a few volumes of illegal verse. A half-eaten meal, ransacked drawers. They’d scrambled togethe... - #5
Save:'Sunshine and Bullets' by Coralee June follows the story of Summer Bright, also known as Sunshine, who had a secret friendship with the local gang, the Bullets. After disappearing and living on the streets for years, she is found and reunited with the grown-up Bullets who still love her. The book delves into their complicated relationships, dark pasts, and the dangerous situations they find themselves in, all while uncovering the mysteries of Sunshine's past. The narrative is a mix of present-day events and flashbacks, keeping readers invested in the characters and the unfolding story.
Sneaking out of my parents’ two-story home was painfully anticlimactic. I didn't have to shimmy down the large white oak outside my window in my too-tight dress. Nor did I have to say I was going to a... - #6
Save:Salvos is a newborn demon exploring her new Nether world, making decisions different from other demons and forming human connections. The story follows Salvos as she navigates through challenges and adventures, showcasing her childlike curiosity, tactical prowess, and growth in understanding human emotions.
- #7
Save:'The Gypsy's Curse' by Harry Crews is a dark and thrilling novel that follows a group of misfits who form an unconventional family. The introduction of Hester, a well-endowed girl, changes their lives for better and worse, leading to dramatic and unpredictable events. The story is narrated by Marvin Molar, a character with tiny, useless legs who must walk on his hands, showcasing the eccentricity and complexity of the characters. The novel delves into themes of love, acceptance, and the struggles of individuals on the margins of society, creating a unique and captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged until the very end.
- #8
Save:'Strega' by Andrew Vachss is the second installment in the Burke series, continuing the story of the anti-hero Burke who operates outside the law to bring down depraved individuals. The novel introduces the character Strega, who seeks Burke's help in solving dark and twisted crimes involving child molestation. Set in the gritty underworld of 1985-87 New York, the story follows Burke and his unconventional team as they navigate through the seedy and violent streets to seek justice for victims of society's worst predators.
The redhead walked slowly up the bridle path, one foot deliberately in front of the other, looking straight ahead. She was dressed in a heavy sweatsuit and carrying some kind of gym bag in her hand. H...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Burke ) - #9
Save:'Shadows Linger' in 'The Black Company' series by Glen Cook is a dark fantasy novel that follows the mercenary band, the Black Company, as they navigate a world filled with betrayals, sacrifices, and dark magic. The story delves into the lives of flawed characters who are faced with dilemmas where morally good choices are scarce, forcing them to choose the lesser of two evils. Cook's writing style is described as gritty and realistic, exploring the human condition through complex characters and a world where enemies become friends, friends become enemies, and people undergo profound changes.
Amidst a backdrop of a dark and gritty world, the book weaves a tale of intrigue, magic, and moral ambiguity, making it a compelling read for fans of fantasy. The narrative is driven by interesting characters, unexpected plot twists, and a sense of realism that adds depth to the story. is part of a series that promises a long, meandering trek through a magical world, with multi-dimensional characters and distinct plots that offer readers an escape from the ordinary into a realm of fantasy and adventure.
All bow before that Silent Monarch. That Lord in Shadow lifts a finger. A feather flutters to the earth. There is no reason in His song. The good go young. The wicked prosper. He is king of the Chaos ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Black Company ) - #10
Save:'Lord of Misrule' by Jaimy Gordon follows the story of horseman Tommy Hansel as he tries to save his stables with an underhanded scheme involving racing four unknown horses to win big. Set in a small West Virginia racetrack, the novel intricately weaves together the lives of characters like Medicine Ed, Suitcase Smithers, Maggie Koderer, and Joe Dale Bigg, along with horses like Pelter and Lord of Misrule. The writing style is described as dense, evocative, and original, capturing the gritty backstage of the racetrack with a lyrical and hopeful touch.
