Books matching: heaven, hell, and purgatory
30 result(s)
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- #1
Save:'Sandman Slim' is a gritty and dark fantasy novel that follows the story of James Stark, also known as Sandman Slim, who returns to Los Angeles after surviving eleven years in Hell. Seeking revenge on those who betrayed him and killed his girlfriend, Stark navigates a world filled with monsters, demons, angels, and magic. The writing style of the book is described as fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with dark humor, making it a thrilling and engaging read for fans of urban fantasy and modern noir.
Personally, I don’t have anything against shroud eaters. They’re just another kind of addict in a city of addicts. Since most of them started out as civilians, the percentage of decent vampires to com... - #2
Save:In 'The Dirty Streets of Heaven,' Tad Williams crafts a noir urban fantasy where angels and demons battle for the souls of the dead. The protagonist, Bobby Dollar, is an angel advocate navigating a corrupt world filled with threats and mysteries. The story follows Bobby's journey as he uncovers a conspiracy involving missing souls, facing a mix of gritty urban fantasy elements and classic detective tropes.
I WAS JUST stepping out of the elevator on the 43rd floor of the Five Page Mill building when the alarms began going off—those nightmarish, clear-the-building kind like the screams of tortured robots—... - #3
Save:In 'Ninth House' by Leigh Bardugo, the story revolves around Galaxy Alex Stern, a survivor dealing with a traumatic past who is recruited to oversee the mystical activities of the secret societies at Yale. As part of House Leathe, the ninth house, Alex becomes entangled in a web of dark secrets, disappearances, and murder on campus. The book delves into themes of trauma, magic, violence, and the power dynamics within the elite circles of Yale, creating a world where the supernatural intertwines with the everyday struggles of its characters. The writing style is described as dark, compelling, and filled with vivid descriptions that transport readers to the atmospheric setting of Yale University.
By the time Alex managed to get the blood out of her good wool coat, it was too warm to wear it. Spring had come on grudgingly; pale blue mornings failed to deepen, turning instead to moist, sullen af... - #4
Save:In "Interview with the Vampire," readers are introduced to Louis, a vampire who opens up about his origins, nature, and experiences to a young journalist in New Orleans. The book offers a fresh and innovative look at vampires and their lore, exploring themes of immortality, love, loneliness, and existential musings. The narrative style draws readers into a world of vampirism that Anne Rice vividly recreates, making it hard to believe it's fantasy, and leaving a lasting impact on those who delve into the story.
The book delves into the emotional elements of vampirism, portraying the struggles and complexities of being a vampire without romanticizing the experience. Through the eyes of Louis, readers get a glimpse into a world where the act of being a vampire is not idealized, but rather depicted as an intense emotional crisis that surpasses human struggles. The characters, including Louis, Lestat, and Claudia, are brought to life in a mesmerizing and realistic manner, making the reader live with them until the end of the journey.
ISEE…” said the vampire thoughtfully, and slowly he walked across the room towards the window. For a long time he stood there against the dim light from Divisadero Street and the passing beams of traf... - #5
Save:The Black Company is a gritty military fantasy novel that follows the exploits of a mercenary band in service to a powerful sorceress known as the Lady. The story is narrated from the perspective of Croaker, the company's physician and annalist, providing a unique viewpoint of the conflicts between the Lady and the rebels who oppose her. The book delves into themes of loyalty, survival, and the blurred lines between good and evil in a world where mercenaries must navigate treacherous alliances and deadly battles.
Lightning from a clear sky smote the Necropolitan Hill. One bolt struck the bronze plaque sealing the tomb of the forvalaka, obliterating half the spell of confinement. It rained stones. Statues bled.... - #6
Save:Inferno by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle is a modern retelling of Dante's Inferno, where a science fiction writer named Allen Carpenter finds himself in Hell after a bizarre accident at a convention. Guided by Benito Mussolini, he embarks on a journey through the levels of Hell, encountering famous characters and engaging in musings on sin and redemption. The book blends elements of science fiction and religious fiction, providing a fast-paced narrative with theological insights and satirical commentary on the genre.
The writing style of Inferno is characterized by a mix of humor, morality storytelling, and social commentary. The book offers a unique twist on the classic tale of Dante's Inferno, updating it for modern times and adding a dose of humor and modernized punishments. The narrative flows smoothly, engaging readers with vivid descriptions of sinners, their punishments, and thought-provoking revelations, making them reflect on their own actions and beliefs.
Call me Allen Carpentier. It’s the name I wrote under, and someone will remember it. I was one of the best-known science-fiction writers in the world, and I had a lot of fans. My stories weren’t the k... - #7
Save:'Fall or, Dodge in Hell' by Neal Stephenson is a complex and ambitious novel that explores the concept of digital afterlife and reincarnation. The book follows the character Dodge, a MMO game creator, who becomes the first denizen of a digital afterlife created by El, a wealthy funder. As the story progresses, it delves into a power struggle between Dodge and El in a swords and sorcery type fantasy environment. The narrative intertwines elements of science fiction and fantasy, with a focus on the characters navigating the afterlife world and a quest to overthrow the usurper El.
Dodge became conscious. His phone was burbling on the bedside table. Without opening his eyes he found it with his hand, jerked it free of its charging cord, and drew it into bed with him. He tapped i...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dodge ) - #8
Save:Ring Shout by P. Djeli Clark is a horror fantasy novella set in the 1920s American South, where the Ku Klux Klan is portrayed as both literal and metaphorical monsters. The story follows Maryse, a young black woman with a magic sword, as she battles these demonic entities disguised as Klansmen. The book seamlessly integrates elements of historical fiction, fantasy, and horror to address themes of racism, hate, and fear during the time of Jim Crow. The narrative is fast-paced, blending cosmic horror with social commentary, creating a unique and compelling story that explores the darkness of human nature.
Clark's writing style in Ring Shout has been praised for its vivid imagery, strong characterization, and powerful narrative voice. The novella delves into the depths of racism and prejudice, offering a fresh perspective on the historical events of the 1920s through a fantastical lens. The book's blend of action-packed sequences, cultural significance, and social commentary makes it a thought-provoking and engaging read that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society and humanity.
There’s a bunch parading down Third Street, wearing white robes and pointed hoods. Not a one got their face covered. I hear them first Klans after the Civil War hid behind pillowcases and flour sacks ... - #9
Save:"I, Lucifer" by Glen Duncan is a novel that explores the premise of God offering Lucifer a chance at redemption by living as a human for a month. The book delves into Lucifer's experiences as he inhabits the body of Declan Gunn, a washed-up author, and navigates the pleasures and challenges of human life. The writing style is described as captivating, with a unique cadence in the narrator's voice that keeps the reader engaged until the very end.
I, Lucifer, Fallen Angel, Prince of Darkness, Bringer of Light, Ruler of Hell, Lord of the Flies, Father of Lies, Apostate Supreme, Tempter of Mankind, Old Serpent, Prince of This World, Seducer, Accu... - #10
Save:The Black Farm by Elias Witherow is a dark and extreme horror novel that follows the story of Nick and Jess, a couple who decide to end their suffering by committing suicide but end up at The Black Farm, a place between heaven and hell for people who commit suicide. The book explores the horrific and tragic journey of Nick as he fights to find Jess in this soulless place, facing brutal challenges and abominations created by The Pig. The plot is thrilling, captivating, and filled with guts, gore, action, and heartbreak, making it a unique and creative horror story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The writing style in The Black Farm is described as well thought out, with a good flow that keeps readers engaged and eager to keep turning the pages. The author, Elias Witherow, brings fresh concepts to the horror genre, creating a world that feels completely real with detailed world-building and character development that leaves a lasting impact on readers.
