Books matching: historical and universal setting
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- #1
'The Anatomy of Melancholy' by Robert Burton is a dense and overloaded book that delves into the causes and cures of melancholia, which is now labeled as depression. Burton combines his own musings on the subject with a vast array of references and citations, creating an immense edifice of knowledge that still educates and entertains centuries later. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the association of human emotions with bodily fluids, the use of drugs to overcome melancholy, and a review of late medieval science and medicine.
Burton's writing style in 'The Anatomy of Melancholy' is described as dense, detailed, and at times circular in argumentation. The book is a monumental work of erudition, containing a vast cabinet of recipes, stories, anecdotes, biographies, and curiosities. Despite the challenging nature of the text, readers find themselves drawn into Burton's world, where topics are explored exhaustively and with a touch of brilliance that keeps them engaged and coming back for more.
This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included... - #2
'The Misplaced Legion' by Harry Turtledove is a fantasy novel that follows a Roman legion and their Gaul commander, Viridovix, who are magically transported to a world where magic is real and different cultures from various points in history coexist, including a Byzantine analogue. The legion becomes mercenaries for the Videssian Empire, impressing the locals with their fighting style and earning a high reputation. The story blends elements of alternate history, ancient battles, and fantastic journeys, creating a mix of realistic characters, political maneuvering, and engaging plot twists.
The author, Harry Turtledove, expertly combines fantasy elements with historical settings, showcasing his worldbuilding skills and ability to create a vivid and immersive fictional universe. The narrative follows the Romans' struggles and triumphs as they adapt to their new surroundings, face internal and external enemies, and navigate the complex political landscape of the Videssian Empire, all while maintaining a balance between realism and fantasy that keeps readers engaged and eager to explore more of the Videssos universe.
THE SUN OF NORTHERN GAUL WAS PALE, NOTHING LIKE THE hot, lusty torch that flamed over Italy. In the dim stillness beneath the trees, its light came wan, green, and shifting, almost as if undersea. The... - #3
"Just Like Heaven" by Julia Quinn is a Regency romance novel that follows the story of Honoria Smythe Smith and Marcus, her brother's best friend, as their relationship evolves from casual acquaintances to something more. The book is described as a quick and fun read, with likable main characters but a tepid romance. The plot centers around Honoria and Marcus navigating their feelings for each other amidst the backdrop of the Smythe Smith Quartet and a life-threatening illness.
The writing style of the book is noted for its humor, light-hearted tone, and predictable nature. Some readers find the characters to be well-developed and relatable, while others criticize the lack of depth in relationships and chemistry between the characters. Overall, the book is seen as a fluffy and entertaining read, but falls short of the author's previous works like the Bridgerton series in terms of charm and magic.
She sat down heavily on the stone bench outside Mr. Hilleford’s Tobacco Shoppe for Discerning Gentlemen and pressed herself up against the wall behind her, desperately (there was that awful word again... - #4
Anno Dracula: The Bloody Red Baron is the second novel in the Anno Dracula series by Kim Newman. The book continues the alternate historical narrative where vampires openly coexist with humans. Set during World War I, the story delves into the war-torn era with vampires fighting on both sides. The plot revolves around Graf von Dracula, who is the military commander in chief of Germany, and Charles Beauregard, a human adversary trying to thwart Dracula's sinister plans. The writing style of Kim Newman seamlessly blends real historical events with fictional characters, creating a dark and compelling narrative filled with horror and humor.
Four miles from the lines, heavy guns sounded as a constant rumble. Cakes of frozen snow gleamed vaguely in the pitted black road. The fall was days old. Bundled in his trench-coat and a useless tarta...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Anno Dracula ) - #5
Set in medieval Oxford just after the Black Death, 'The Bookseller's Tale' follows the adventures of Nicholas Elyot, a bookseller who becomes entangled in a mysterious death of a young scholar. The plot involves a complex conspiracy that Nicholas uncovers while investigating the murder, shedding light on post-plague Oxford and the struggles of its inhabitants. The writing style is described as engaging, with vivid characters and a rich sense of historical background that seamlessly weaves into the story.
As for those of us who survived, every day is precious. To come awake in the morning – whether the sky is tranquil blue or thunderous grey – is an incomprehensible joy. I live! But such joyful though...