Books matching: historical and fictional characters
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Europe Central' by William T. Vollmann is a weighty novel that takes a sideways look at the events of World War II through the lives of historical and fictional characters. The book delves into the interior lives of characters like N. K. Krepskaya, Fanya Kaplan, Shostakovich, General Vlasov, and others, providing insights into their dilemmas and ambiguities under totalitarian regimes. Vollmann's rich and creamy language touches on themes of damaged humanity, the power of history, and fragmentation, alluding to historical facts and lyrical images throughout the narrative.
The novel explores the ideological struggles of the 1940s between Russia and Germany, as well as within those countries, portraying historical figures as fictional characters. Vollmann's writing style is described as compelling, ambitious, and masterful, tackling an extremely difficult subject with intelligence and authenticity. The book offers a perspective on how Fascism could emerge, how people lived in that culture, and provides a powerful reminder of the personal horror experienced during the war's Eastern Front.
You won’t get to watch it happen; they don’t allow windows in this office, so you may feel a trifle dull at times, but at least you’ll never be alone, since on the steel desk, deep within arm’s length... The Dying Grass by William T. Vollmann is a novel that delves into the Nez Perce War, chronicling the battles, pursuits, and preparations of real-life protagonists Chief Joseph I and General O.O. Howard. The writing style of the book is described as a revolutionary orthography with nested indentations on the page, creating a unique reading experience that immerses the reader in the moment itself. The book is praised for its epic prose poem format, capturing moments of self-reflection, fantasies, and calumnies of the characters involved in the war.
The President-elect advances into the Senate chamber and delivers his inaugural address (a saddlebag full of salt pork): The permanent pacification of the country upon such principles and by such meas...- #3
Save:In Zeppelins West, Joe R. Lansdale creates a wild and humorous mashup novel set in a world where historical and fictional 19th-century characters intermingle. From Bill Hickok and Annie Oakley to Dr. Moreau type Dr. MoMo and Ned the Talking Seal, the characters embark on a zany adventure involving rescuing Frankenstein's monster, escaping from Dr. Momo and Captain Bemo, and encountering a submarine operated by unique creatures. The writing style is described as slapdash and slapstick, yet filled with imagination, humor, and off-the-wall humor that keeps the reader laughing from beginning to end.
- #4
Save:'The Secret History of Twin Peaks' by Mark Frost is a novel that delves deep into the history behind the events surrounding the town of Twin Peaks from the TV show. The book uncovers the founding of the town, mysterious occurrences near a lake, the unique characters, and a blend of conspiracy theories ranging from UFOs to the Illuminati. Frost intricately weaves together real historical events with the fictional world of Twin Peaks, creating a companion piece to the TV show that offers details before and after the show's time frame.
Frost's writing style in 'The Secret History of Twin Peaks' is described as a mysterious dossier presented as an interactive work, following FBI Agent Tamara Preston's examination of the town's history. The book expands upon the information from the TV series and presents a complex narrative that intertwines the White and Black Lodges with UFO sightings, alien abductions, and government cover-ups. With a focus on the town itself, the book raises more mysteries, fills in blanks from the original series, and invites speculation and wonder, leaving readers contemplating the enigmatic world of Twin Peaks.
- #5
Save:In "Black Cross" by Greg Iles, the story unfolds during World War II, focusing on a secret mission to thwart the Nazis from using poison gas during the Allied landings in France. The book delves into ethical dilemmas, human values, and the depths of beliefs faced by characters unexpectedly. With a mix of adventure, suspense, and historical accuracy, the novel intricately weaves together a tale of survival, moral dilemmas, and the transformative power of war.
It’s odd how death often marks a beginning rather than an end. We know someone for ten years, twenty years, longer. We see them in the course of daily life. We speak, laugh, exchange harsh words; we t... - #6
Save:'A Day of Fire: A Novel of Pompeii' is a collection of six interrelated stories by six different authors, each offering a unique perspective on the catastrophic destruction of Pompeii in AD 79. The stories are set in the days leading up to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, showcasing the lives of various characters, both historical and fictional, as they navigate love, despair, courage, and tragedy in the face of impending disaster. The writing style is vivid, colorful, and rich in historical detail, painting a compelling picture of Roman society during the Early Roman Empire.
I discreetly tightened my loincloth as I approached Pompeii’s Sarno Gate. The mere sight of the chipped arch funneling us into the city—the knowledge that I was that much closer to her—made my body re... - #7
Save:The Accursed is a complex and multi-layered novel set in Princeton at the turn of the 20th century, blending elements of historical fiction and gothic horror. The story revolves around a curse that plagues the Slade family, involving supernatural entities, demons, and a series of mysterious and tragic events. The narrative intertwines real historical figures like Woodrow Wilson and Upton Sinclair with fantastical elements, creating a dark and eerie atmosphere. The writing style is described as slow, episodic, and filled with sexual tension, reminiscent of classic gothic literature.
Fellow historians will be shocked, dismayed, and perhaps incredulous—I am daring to suggest that the Curse did not first manifest itself on June 4, 1905, which was the disastrous morning of Annabel Sl...
(Also, see 53 recommendations for the series The Gothic Saga ) - #8
Save:'Blood's a Rover' is the third part of the Underworld USA trilogy by James Ellroy. The book delves into a world filled with drugs, gang wars, money laundering, and corruption within the police and various secret services. The story follows a cast of morally compromised characters navigating through historical events, political assassinations, and criminal activities. The writing style is described as terse, hard-boiled, and relentless, with a complex plot that weaves together multiple perspectives and storylines.
Despite being the concluding book in the series, 'Blood's a Rover' is criticized for feeling scattered and less focused compared to the first two books. However, it still manages to maintain a sense of intrigue and suspense, particularly around a brutal heist of an armored car that serves as a central motif throughout the novel. The book is praised for its epic scope, relentless pacing, and unflinching portrayal of a dark and corrupt version of American history, making it a satisfying read for fans of the trilogy.
SUDDENLY: The milk truck cut a sharp right turn and grazed the curb. The driver lost the wheel. He panic-popped the brakes. He induced a rear-end skid. A Wells Fargo armored car clipped the milk truck...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Underworld USA ) - #9
Save:Black Ajax by George MacDonald Fraser is a historical novel that delves into the story of Tom Molineaux, a black American former slave who travels to England in the early 19th century to challenge the English champion of bare fist boxing, Tom Cribb. The book is narrated through various perspectives, including that of Harry Flashman's father, and captures the essence of 19th-century English boxing, portraying the harsh realities of the sport during that era. Fraser's writing style is praised for its historical accuracy, vivid storytelling, and ability to bring the past to life through a diverse range of characters and voices.
Now, I know there's them as says a white man's mind is no different, but I hold that it is. Take our own two selves, sir, if you'll pardon the liberty. You can see the thoughts in my eyes, and – how s... The novel moves between two storylines, one on the Titanic and one a few years later on the Britannic during World War I. The details about the Britannic, how it was reinforced after the Titanic's sinking, and how it was refitted to be a hospital ship were fascinating. The story blends historical fact and fiction seamlessly, with references to the supernatural and superficial characters.
Annie Hebbley pokes her needle into the coarse gray linen, a soft color, like the feathers of the doves that entrap themselves in the chimneys here, fluttering and crying out, sometimes battering them...
