Books matching: heroic figure
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- #1
Save:'Killing Patton' by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard delves into the final year of World War II, focusing on General George S. Patton Jr.'s contributions and the events surrounding his mysterious death. The book offers insights into Patton's character, his interactions with other major figures of the era, and the political situation at the time. While some readers find the book to be more about the end of Nazi Germany than a detailed focus on Patton's plot, it provides a concise history of WWII and vivid narratives of significant battles like the Battle of the Bulge.
The narrative style in 'Killing Patton' is described as fast-paced and well-written, albeit with a newscaster prose that some readers find typical of Bill O'Reilly's writing. The book covers Patton's activities from October 1944 onwards, vividly detailing events like the Battle of the Bulge, the relief of Bastogne, and the crossing of the Rhine. While some feel that the book is less about Patton and more about the broader context of the war, it offers a unique perspective on Patton's life and the mysteries surrounding his death.
The autumn afternoon was rent by a terrifying sound the Americans knew all too well. Their slang for the high-speed ripping sound of a German MG-42 machine gun is “Hitler’s Zipper.” To the Wehrmacht, ...
(Also, see 64 recommendations for the series Killing ) 'The Man with the Poison Gun: A Cold War Spy Story' by Serhii Plokhy is a meticulously researched account of a KGB assassin's espionage activities during the Cold War era. The book delves into the complexities of political assassinations carried out by the Soviets, shedding light on little-known historical events and providing insights into the world of espionage and counter-insurgency tactics.
Plokhy's writing style is described as engaging and suspenseful, akin to a James Bond novel but grounded in real-life events. Through detailed descriptions and historical facts, the author navigates through the story of a young man entrapped in the brutal world of the KGB, forced to commit assassinations using a silent gun that emitted a lethal poison, all set against the backdrop of East-West tensions and the shadowy operations of Soviet intelligence.
Nikita Khrushchev, the balding, overweight, but surprisingly energetic future leader of the Soviet Union, was in the middle of a speech when a note was delivered to the podium asking him to call Mosco...'To Rule the Waves: How the British Navy Shaped the Modern World' by Arthur Herman delves into the history of the Royal Navy, spanning from its inception to its significant role in shaping the modern world. Through a narrative style, the author vividly portrays the lives of naval officers and seamen, detailing the naval strategies, technologies, and battles that shaped the British Empire. introduces readers to key figures such as Sir Francis Drake, Lord Nelson, and Captain James Cook, bringing to life their dreams of glory, the horrors of war, and the impact of naval power on world history.
Herman's book not only chronicles the evolution of the Royal Navy over five centuries but also explores the broader themes of war, empire-building, and the significance of maritime power in shaping nations. From the Elizabethan privateers to the Falklands War, the narrative captures the essence of the Royal Navy's journey, highlighting its instrumental role in establishing and maintaining British supremacy on the seas.
- #4
Save:'The Armada' by Garrett Mattingly is a meticulously researched and engagingly written book that delves into one of the most significant historical events of England and Europe - the Spanish Armada. The author weaves a factual narrative filled with captivating details and insights, presenting the history of England, Spain, and the U.S. in a connected and comprehensive manner. Mattingly's approach to history as a story, complete with subplots, character development, and political intrigues, adds depth and richness to the account of the naval campaign.
The book primarily focuses on the events leading up to the naval campaign against the Armada, exploring the personal and political dynamics at play during that time. While not a detailed analysis of the battle itself, the book offers a thorough exploration of the Armada from the English perspective, shedding light on the intricate diplomatic and military conflicts of the 16th century. Through vivid storytelling and insightful portrayals of historical figures, Mattingly brings to life the religious, political, and interpersonal forces that shaped the world during that era.
"The Mammoth Book of Celtic Myths and Legends" by Peter Berresford Ellis is a comprehensive collection of Celtic tales, myths, and legends from various regions like Scotland, Ireland, the Isle of Man, Wales, Cornwall, and Brittany. The book presents a mix of historical references and mythological stories that engage the reader with its storytelling style. Divided into categories, the book offers a broad overview of Celtic mythology, showcasing how the stories interact and influence each other.
The book is praised for its storytelling artfulness, engaging writing style, and informative background information. Readers appreciate the organization of the myths based on Celtic homelands and find the content to be both entertaining and educational. Despite some minor drawbacks like typos and challenging Gaelic pronunciations, the book is recommended for those interested in exploring the rich world of Celtic myths and legends.
- #6
Save:The Scarlet Pimpernel is a classic tale of intrigue and romance set during the French Revolution. The story follows the daring adventures of the mysterious Englishman known as the Scarlet Pimpernel, who rescues condemned individuals from the guillotine, while being pursued by a ruthless French agent. The novel is filled with espionage, suspense, and drama, all revolving around the elusive hero and his noble cause. Written in a theatrical style with outrageous intrigue, the book captures the essence of heroism and selfless acts in a time of turmoil and revolution.
The narrative unfolds through the lens of various characters, providing insights into their inner lives and motivations. The plot twists and reversals keep the reader engaged, although some find them predictable due to the book's influence on genre fiction since its publication. Despite the simplistic view of historic events and the florid writing style, The Scarlet Pimpernel remains a captivating read that offers a satisfying tale of good versus evil, heroism, and true love.
ASURGING, SEETHING, murmuring crowd of beings that are human only in name, for to the eye and ear they seem naught but savage creatures, animated by vile passions and by the lust of vengeance and of h... - #7
Save:'Joan of Arc' by Mark Twain is a historical novel that delves into the life of the iconic Joan of Arc. The novel portrays intrigue, danger, excitement, and interesting events in Joan's journey. Despite the writing style being criticized as stiff and forced, readers appreciate the pearls of wisdom hidden within the narrative. Twain's portrayal of Joan as a reverential hero, pious and fearless, brings her to life in a unique way that few books about saints manage to achieve.
I, THE SIEUR LOUIS DE CONTE, was born in Neufchâteau, the 6th of January, 1410; that is to say, exactly two years before Joan of Arc was born in Domremy. My family had fled to those distant regions fr... - #8
Save:Count Belisarius by Robert Graves is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life and achievements of the titular character, a prominent general during the rule of Justinian and Theodora. The narrative is presented through the perspective of a eunuch serving Belisarius' wife, providing a dispassionate and remote view of the events. The book captures Belisarius' military campaigns, strategic genius, and the political intrigues of the Byzantine court in the 6th century AD, all while maintaining a focus on historical accuracy and vivid descriptions of ancient warfare.
WHEN he was seven years old, Belisarius was told by his widowed mother that it was now time for him to leave her for a while, and her retainers of the household and estate at Thracian Tchermen, and go... The 'Ramayana' by Valmiki is an ancient epic that narrates the story of Lord Rama, Sita, Ravana, and the monkey god Hanuman. It delves into the rich history and culture of India, showcasing values and morals through the conflicts and relationships between the characters. The book is praised for its lucid and well-written translation, providing readers with a vivid portrayal of the era when devils and righteous men clashed. It offers an intimate perspective of Indian mythology and spirituality, making it a valuable read for those seeking insight into Hindu culture.
Rāma was pleased to see that his wife was beginning to show signs of being pregnant. ‘I see that we shall soon have much to celebrate!’ he said to her. ‘What can I do for you? Tell me, which wish of y...- #10
Save:'Birds of Prey' by Wilbur Smith is a swashbuckling epic set in 1667 on the high seas off the African coast, following the adventures of the Courteney family. The story revolves around Francis Courteney and his son Hal as they embark on a seafaring quest for treasure while facing bloody battles, treachery, and revenge. The novel is described as brutal and bloodthirsty, filled with sword fights, detailed naval warfare, and encounters with dangerous wildlife like crocodiles and lions. Despite the excessive length and focus on gratuitous elements like torture and gore, the book is praised for its rich historical detail and engaging storytelling.
Although this story is set in the mid-seventeenth century, the galleons and caravels in which my characters find themselves are more usually associated with the sixteenth century. Seventeenth-century ...
(Also, see 98 recommendations for the series Courtney )
