Books matching: historical parallels
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:Penmarric by Susan Howatch is a multi-generational family saga set in Cornwall, following the lives of the Castellack family through two World Wars. The story is rich in historical references to the Plantagenets, specifically Henry II, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and their children, providing a new dimension to the family drama. The narrative is structured in multiple first-person POVs, giving insight into each character's perspective and personal growth over more than fifty years.
He was a young man of twenty, always travelling about on intolerable daily journeys which seemed twice the normal length. . . . He worked far into the night. Those about him ascribed his perpetual lab... - #2
Save:Blood & Iron is a continuation of the American Empire series by Harry Turtledove, delving into an alternate history where the Confederate states won the civil war and America remained divided. The story follows the aftermath of World War I, exploring the struggles of characters dealing with loss, disabilities, and bitterness towards the USA. Turtledove weaves a narrative that parallels real historical events, such as the rise of political parties in times of chaos and economic turmoil, providing a detailed and fictionalized account of post-war life.
'When Women Ruled the World: Six Queens of Egypt' by Kara Cooney is a captivating exploration of the reigns of six female pharaohs in ancient Egypt. The book delves into the lives of these powerful women, highlighting their struggles and triumphs in a male-dominated society. Cooney's writing style immerses readers in the historical context, making them feel like they are witnessing the events firsthand. Through detailed research and compelling storytelling, the author sheds light on the complexities of female leadership in ancient Egypt and draws parallels to modern-day power dynamics.
From the very beginning of Egypt’s formation as the world’s first regional state, female rule was not only permitted, but required. This differentiated Egypt from other parts of the ancient world. A c...- #4
Save:'The Terror' by David Andress is a detailed study of the radical phase of the French Revolution, particularly focusing on the period known as The Terror from 1791 to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. The author delves into the political ideals, party programs, and the driving forces behind the bloodletting during this tumultuous time. Through meticulous research, Andress explores the psychology of the era's principals, shedding light on the gruesome elements of the Terror while also drawing parallels to contemporary political and religious fundamentalism.
Andress's narrative style is described as thorough, enjoyable, and thought-provoking, offering readers a deep insight into the era. Despite the complexity of events and the vast amount of detail covered in the book, readers find it engaging and enlightening, with a focus on ordinary lives becoming extraordinary in the face of historical upheaval. The book provides a fresh perspective on the French Revolution, challenging traditional narratives and prompting readers to reflect on the parallels between past and present political landscapes.
- #5
Save:When the Clock Broke by John Ganz examines the political chaos in the early 1990s, particularly the rise of controversial figures like David Duke and Pat Buchanan. It narrates how America shifted after the Cold War, highlighting societal discontent and the emergence of conspiracy theories amidst economic inequality. Ganz weaves together character studies of these political outsiders, linking them to contemporary movements like MAGA, illustrating how reactions to the establishment's failures paved the way for future populism. The book serves as both a historical recount and a critique of how past political dynamics influence today's landscape.
Ganz’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making the complex events of the 1990s digestible. He balances narrative with analysis, often avoiding overt confrontation, but effectively showcasing the implications of these political shifts. His insights are not only a recount of historical facts but also an exploration of significant personalities that reflected the frustrations of a changing America. The book resonates with both those who lived through the era and younger readers seeking context to present-day political sentiments.
- #6
Save:In "The Reckoning" by Sharon Kay Penman, the final book in the Welsh Princes series, the story revolves around the struggles of the Welsh prince, Llewelyn, and the machinations of King Edward Longshanks of England. The novel delves into the historical battles and political conflicts between the Welsh and English, while also exploring the personal relationships and emotional turmoil of the characters. Penman's writing style expertly weaves together accurate historical details with compelling storytelling, bringing to life the characters and events of the 13th century in a dramatic and emotionally charged manner. The book follows the lives of strong female characters, intricate family dynamics, and the harsh realities of war and betrayal, providing a rich and immersive reading experience for historical fiction enthusiasts.
56 dictable and pragmatic decision to remain at Sovana Castle with Guy and his powerful father-in-law. But a score of knights had elected to follow Bran. These die-hard loyalists had not bargained upo...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Welsh Princes ) - #7
Save:'The Rich Are Different' by Susan Howatch is a modern-day retelling of the classic love story between Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and Mark Antony, set in the 1920s and 1930s in the US and England. The plot revolves around the Van Zale family dynasty of investment bankers, their complex relationships, power struggles, and scandals. Through the viewpoints of different characters, readers are immersed in a world of high finance, ambition, love affairs, and betrayals. The novel skillfully weaves historical events with modern settings, creating a gripping storyline filled with intrigue and drama.
The narrative style of the book is fast-paced, engaging, and multi-layered, with intricate plots and well-developed characters. The author, Susan Howatch, cleverly uses the historical stories of Caesar and Mark Antony as the foundation for this captivating novel, offering a unique perspective on wealth, power, and relationships. Readers are taken on a journey through the decadent lifestyles of the rich and powerful, exploring themes of greed, ambition, revenge, and love in a world where money can buy anything but true happiness.
My presence in London was accidental since I should have been at least halfway across the Atlantic with my observations on the Genoa Conference, but when it had become obvious in Genoa that on the sub... 'The Storm Before the Storm: The Beginning of the End of the Roman Republic' by Mike Duncan delves into the generation of politics preceding the collapse of the Roman Republic. Through a well-researched narrative, the author explores the intricacies of Roman history, specifically focusing on the period leading up to the transition from a republic to an empire. Duncan's writing style is praised for being accessible to a broad audience, making the historical content engaging and understandable even for readers unfamiliar with the fall of the Roman Republic.
- #9
Save:'The Dream of Scipio' by Iain Pears is a historical novel that intertwines the stories of three men living in different eras in Provence, France. The book explores themes of love, faith, power, and moral dilemmas as the protagonists navigate through significant historical events such as the fall of the Roman Empire, the Black Plague, and the Nazi invasion of France. Pears' writing style is described as intellectual, elegant, and philosophical, with a deep emotional impact on the reader.
JULIEN BARNEUVE died at 3:28 on the afternoon of August 18, 1943. It had taken him twenty-three minutes exactly to die, the time between the fire starting and his last breath being sucked into his sco... - #10
Save:Clybourne Park is a play that cleverly follows up on the neighborhood in A Raisin in the Sun, exploring connections between characters from both plays. The story delves into themes of race, neighborhood gentrification, and communication through engaging dialogue and well-developed characters. The play is structured in two acts, 50 years apart, showing how attitudes and issues persist over time, with parallel relationships and interconnected characters providing depth to the narrative.
(September 1959. Three o’clock, Saturday afternoon. The house is in disarray. Cardboard boxes are stacked in corners. Some furniture has been removed, shelves emptied Pictures have been removed from t...
