Books matching: identity and betrayal
100 result(s)
- #1
Unconquerable Sun by Kate Elliott is a military space opera set in a far future where Princess Sun, the daughter of the powerful Queen Marshal Eirene, seeks to prove herself and bring defeat to her enemies. The story is rich in political intrigue, family dynamics, and space battles, with a focus on Princess Sun's journey to earn respect, navigate internal politics, and face external threats. The narrative is told through multiple perspectives, including Princess Sun, her allies, and friends, offering a complex and engaging portrayal of characters in a detailed and fascinating world.
The battered fleet returned to Molossia System without fanfare or announcement. Military personnel striding across the main concourse of Naval Command Orbital Station Yǎnshī slowed their steps as they... - #2
Eight years later, after too many lies and with trouble on her heels, Bina finds herself on the side of the road again, the city of her dreams calling for her. She has an old suitcase, a fresh black eye, and a room waiting for her at Catherine House, a young women's residence in Greenwich Village with a tragic history, a vow of confidentiality, and dark, magical secrets. Bina is drawn to her enigmatic downstairs neighbor Monet, a girl who is equal parts intriguing and dangerous. As Bina's lease begins to run out, and nightmare and memory get tangled, she will be forced to face the terrible truth of why she's come to Catherine House and what it will take for her to leave. Bina Tremper has very little in life, but that's all right, because she has her mother. Sent away from the home they share to make peace with her stepsisters, Bina leaves home and runs away to New York City. There, she finds the boarding house that her mother stayed in when she was pregnant with Bina. But Catherine House holds a host of secrets, some of them about Sabina herself. Things get even more complicated when she meets the mysterious, spontaneous Monet, who may be holding dangerous secrets herself. Will Bina discover the building's hidden truths Or lose herself entirely.
- #3
In the book 'Eona' by Alison Goodman, the story continues with Eona's struggles as her secret identity is revealed, leading to a series of lies and secrets that threaten her safety and sanity. As she navigates trust issues, manipulative forces, and complex relationships, Eona must come to terms with her femininity and her role as Lady Dragoneye. The plot unfolds with themes of power, loyalty, love, and self-discovery against the backdrop of a richly detailed world influenced by Asian cultures and epic world-building.
I stared across the choppy, gray sea and concentrated on the soft sound within me. For three daybreaks, ever since we had fled the conquered palace, I had stood on this same rock and felt the keening ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Eon ) - #4
The Blinding Knife, the second book in the Lightbringer series by Brent Weeks, continues the epic fantasy tale following the events of the first book, Black Prism. The book introduces a new range of magic types with associated rules, creating a distinctly different fantasy world. The plot follows the characters as they navigate through intricate political power plays, moral dilemmas, hidden agendas, and divided loyalties, all set against the backdrop of an overarching war. The book is known for its meticulous worldbuilding, detailed and unique magic system, sympathetic characters, and twists and turns that keep readers guessing.
Gavin Guile lay on his back on a narrow skimmer floating in the middle of the sea. It was a tiny craft with low sides. Lying on his back like this, he’d once almost believed he was one with the sea. N...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Lightbringer ) - #5
Laura Kasischke's 'Be Mine' is a dark thriller romance that follows the life of Sherry Seymour, a suburban English teacher whose marriage has lost its spark and whose son has left for college. When Sherry starts receiving mysterious valentines in her work mailbox, signed 'Be Mine,' she becomes consumed with uncovering the identity of the secret admirer. This leads her into an affair that brings forth a series of unforeseen and unwelcome events, ultimately challenging her perception of herself and her relationships. The narrative delves into themes of desire, romance, fear, death, and the complexities of love and passion, all presented in a compelling and engaging writing style that immerses the reader into the story.
The florist must have run it over, delivering the roses, running late already by nine o’clock in the morning. When she handed me the long white box at the door she never mentioned having killed anythi... - #6
'Prince's Gambit' in the series 'Captive Prince' by C.S. Pacat is a captivating story that follows the journey of Prince Laurent and his slave, Damen, as they navigate through political intrigue, war strategy, and court dynamics in a historical AU setting. The book intricately weaves together elements of romance, fantasy, and slow-burn enemies-to-lovers relationship between the two main characters, all while keeping readers engaged with its well-paced plot and unexpected twists.
The writing style of C.S. Pacat is hailed as masterful, with readers praising the vivid storytelling, clever plot development, and intricate character dynamics. The book is commended for its ability to blend elements of romance, fantasy, and political intrigue seamlessly, creating a story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats while also delving deep into the minds of the characters.
The shadows were long with sunset when they rode up, and the horizon was red. Chastillon was a single jutting tower, a dark round bulk against the sky. It was huge and old, like the castles far to the...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Captive Prince ) - #7
The novel 'The Human Stain' by Philip Roth follows the story of Coleman Silk, a college professor who resigns over allegations of making a racially insensitive remark, only to reveal a deeper secret that he has been hiding. The book explores themes of power, secrets, academia, and the impact of societal perceptions on individuals' lives. Roth weaves a complex narrative with thought-provoking insights into human nature and societal issues, set against the backdrop of the late Clinton years and the Monica Lewinsky scandal.
The writing style in 'The Human Stain' is often praised for its excellence, with readers appreciating Roth's ability to create unique and engrossing characters. The novel is described as a well-written piece of contemporary fiction that delves into the consequences of secrets and the ways in which they shape our actions and relationships. The book is noted for its exploration of race, gender, class, and family dynamics, presented through Roth's brilliant and scathing style that offers a nuanced commentary on American society.
WHEN COLEMAN went down to Athena the next day to ask what could be done to ensure against Farley’s ever again trespassing on his property, the lawyer, Nelson Primus, told him what he did not want to h...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The American Trilogy ) - #8
The Gospel of Loki by Joanne Harris is a retelling of Norse mythology from the perspective of Loki, the Trickster. The book captures Loki's voice as an amoral, witty, and restless character who narrates the tales with humor and mischief. Through Loki's storytelling, readers are introduced to the gods and goddesses of Asgard, exploring familiar myths from a fresh and entertaining point of view. The narrative style of the book mixes modern language with traditional mythology, providing an inimitable retelling of old legends that is both enjoyable and amusing.
THE WORLDS ARE ALWAYS CHANGING. It’s their nature to ebb and flow. That’s why, in the old days, the Middle Worlds were smaller than they are today – later, they expanded in the years of the Winter War... - #9
Confessions on the 7:45 by Lisa Unger is a psychological thriller that follows Selena Murphy, a working mom who discovers her husband's affair with the nanny. A chance encounter on a train leads to confessions and secrets shared between Selena and Martha, a mysterious stranger. As the story unfolds, the characters' lives intertwine, secrets are revealed, and unexpected twists keep the readers on the edge of their seats. The narrative is filled with deception, manipulation, and suspense, culminating in a gripping tale of revenge and unexpected connections.
She missed the 5:40 train because her client meeting ran long, knowing before she even left the conference room table that there was no way she would be home in time for dinner with her husband Graham... - #10
'The Good Girl' by Mary Kubica is a psychological thriller about the kidnapping of Mia Dennett, the daughter of a prominent Chicago judge. The story is narrated from multiple perspectives, including Mia's mother Eve, the detective Gabe, and the kidnapper Colin. The plot alternates between before and after timelines, creating suspense and depth to the narrative. The writing style involves twists, surprises, and a nonlinear structure that keeps the readers engaged till the very end.
I’m sitting at the breakfast nook sipping from a mug of cocoa when the phone rings. I’m lost in thought, staring out the back window at the lawn that now, in the throes of an early fall, abounds with ...