Books matching: identity and loyalty
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- #1
Save:Atmospheric and imaginative, with standout world-building and nature magic, but occasionally bogged down by a meandering plot and a divisive main character. Worth a try for fantasy lovers, especially if you enjoy epic settings and character-driven stories.
"The Waking Land" by Callie Bates follows the story of Lady Elanna Valtai, who was taken hostage at a young age to ensure her father's loyalty to the crown. Raised in the king's court, Elanna is framed for the king's murder after he is poisoned, leading her on a journey to discover her true identity and powers. The book is filled with political intrigue, betrayals, magical elements, and a romantic triangle, set in a world where magic is forbidden and a young woman must navigate her way through a complex web of lies and truths.
Elanna's character growth, the rich world-building, and the intricate plot filled with action and twists make "The Waking Land" a captivating fantasy novel that keeps readers spellbound. The book delves into themes of identity, power, loyalty, and the awakening of one's true self, as Elanna uncovers the magic within her and faces challenges that test her beliefs and choices.
It’s been fourteen years, last night. Fourteen years since King Antoine took me hostage; fourteen years since I’ve seen or heard from my parents. It’s the only night I allow myself to remember them, a...June 2017•404 pages - #2
Save:'Black Thorne's Rose' is a medieval novel that weaves together legend, history, and romance to create a magical story. The book follows Emlyn, who is forced to marry a cruel lord after her father's death, leading to a series of events involving mysterious rescues, treachery, and romantic entanglements. The plot is rich with intriguing twists, vivid descriptions of settings, and complex characters like the enigmatic Black Thorne and the cold-hearted Nicholas.
A trick of the wind took her last arrow. Released from the bowstring and caught on a breeze, the shaft traced a high arc and flew past its target. As it disappeared into a stand of leafy trees near th...September 1994•384 pages - #3
Save:A dark, poetic, and inventive novella - perfect for those who love allegorical fiction and are looking for something unique and thought-provoking, but may not satisfy those wanting a traditional crime drama.
Yuri Herrera's 'Trabajos del reino' is a novella that delves into the life of a Mexican drug lord and his court, drawing parallels to medieval times where power, authority, and illicit desires reign supreme. The story follows a singer who becomes known as the Artist in the drug lord's entourage, navigating a world of luxury, manipulation, and moral dilemmas. Through the use of titles instead of names for characters, Herrera weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, shedding light on the societal ties to the drug lords in Mexico.
He knew blood, and could see this man’s was different. Could see it in the way he filled the space, with no urgency and an all-knowing air, as though made of finer threads. Other blood. The man took a...2004•120 pages - #4
Save:An engaging medieval romance with a unique hero and vivid historical setting - well worth the read for history buffs and classic romance lovers, even if it takes a bit to get going.
'Lord Of My Heart' by Jo Beverley is set in 1060s England during the Norman conquest. It follows the story of Aimery de Gaillard, a man torn between his loyalties to his English heritage and his Norman king. Aimery, also known as Golden Hart, aids English peasants under Norman rule while trying to hide his true identity. The plot revolves around his complex relationship with Madeleine de la Haute Vironge, a woman who becomes entangled in his secrets. Their passionate and sensual relationship develops amidst the turbulent historical backdrop of the time period, creating a captivating blend of romance, history, and intrigue.
is praised for its well-researched historical setting, complex characters, and the unique twist of having a hero who is torn between helping the English people without betraying King William. The writing style brings the time period to life, with vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling that keeps the readers enthralled until the last page.
Madeleine walked along the woodland path, searching the undergrowth for valuable plants. Baddersley had suffered, first under the rule of her sick father and careless brother, and now under the harsh...August 1992•381 pages - #5
Save:A rich, atmospheric read about divided loyalties and the pain of wartime choices, The Gift of Rain is moving, complex, and beautifully crafted - but may feel slow or distant for some.
Set in Malaysia during WWII, 'The Gift of Rain' follows the story of Philip Hutton, a young man of mixed heritage who finds himself caught in the complexities of divided loyalties. As he navigates his relationships with his family, his community, and his Japanese sensei, the novel delves into themes of wartime lies, loyalties, and the impacts of choices made during trying times. Tan Twan Eng's evocative writing style brings to life the lush descriptions of the island setting and the intricate relationships portrayed in the book.
Young Philip's journey through the war, his struggles with identity and loyalty, and the heartbreaking consequences of his decisions are at the heart of 'The Gift of Rain'. The novel explores the bonds between characters, the complexities of wartime relationships, and the internal conflicts faced by the protagonist as he grapples with his sense of belonging and duty. Tan Twan Eng weaves a poignant tale of love, tragedy, and the enduring impacts of personal and political relationships set against the backdrop of wartime Malaysia.
This was back in a time when I did not believe in fortunetellers, when the world was not yet filled with wonder and mystery. I cannot recall her appearance now, the woman who read my face and touche...2007•482 pages - #6
Save:Stateless by Meli Raine is a thrilling romantic suspense novel that delves into a dark and chilling world of lies, deceit, and power struggles. The story follows Kina and Callum, two young adults trained by the 'stateless' organization to infiltrate governments for missions crucial to peace. As the trainees navigate through a system that suppresses emotions and attachments, they uncover secrets, face inner battles, and struggle to determine who to trust. The book intricately weaves together themes of deception, manipulation, and the blurred lines between good and bad, creating a suspenseful and engaging narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Stateless is a modern new adult dystopian story that explores themes of isolation, exploitation, and the quest for truth in a world filled with tension and paranoia. Meli Raine skillfully crafts a tale that not only captivates with its fast-paced plot and intriguing characters but also prompts readers to question the corrupt systems and governments portrayed in the narrative. With elements of romance, suspense, and psychological thriller, this book sets the stage for a gripping trilogy that promises to keep readers hooked until the very end.
“And what is happening?” my instructor, Angelica demands, her face severe, brown eyes narrowing at the bottom, the look malevolent. Her hair is pulled back in a tight bun, cheekbones sharp enough to c...October 2019•209 pages - #7
Save:'The Wolf Hunt' by Gillian Bradshaw is a historical romantic fantasy novel set in medieval France, revolving around the characters of Marie, Alain, Tiarnan, and Eline. The story follows Marie's journey from a convent to being a pawn in a political game between Duke Robert and Alain's older cousin, all while Tiarnan, a werewolf, struggles with his dual nature and the betrayal of his loved ones. The plot intricately weaves together elements of adventure, love, betrayal, and secrets, creating a captivating tale filled with vivid historical details and unexpected twists. Bradshaw's writing style beautifully combines medieval settings, Breton fantasy, and a touch of horror, making it a compelling read that keeps the readers engaged till the end.
Afterward it seemed to Marie that she was born on the May afternoon when they told her that her brother was dead. Before that she had been cocooned in her own pretensions, a shapeless grub of a girl e...August 2001•367 pages - #8
Save:A glittery fantasy layered with danger, romance, and deception - great for fans of YA heist stories, but might feel a little too familiar (or melodramatic) for those looking for something new.
Den of Liars (The Devious) by Jessica S. Olson centers around Lola, a young woman trying to escape the shadows of her past. Caught in a dangerous competition called the Liar's Dice Tournament, she must navigate a world of deception and trust. Her life becomes more complicated as she deals with the Thief, who saved her, and his mysterious brother, with whom she feels a strange connection. The plot weaves themes of identity and loyalty amidst twists and turns, set against a glittering casino backdrop.
The writing style is fast-paced but has received mixed feedback. Some feel it has awkward moments due to excessive exposition during action scenes, breaking the flow. Characters are viewed as stereotypical, leading to disappointment for some readers expecting depth. Meanwhile, others enjoyed the morally grey characters and the romantic tension. The book can be seen as a blend of familiar YA tropes, with a touch of unique magic systems and emotional stakes.
I laugh as our feet slap in tandem across the slippery roof tiles of Aethera’s factory district. Our heart thunders in my chest, and adrenaline sparks in my pulse as sharp as the electricity rumbling...July 2025•380 pages - #9
Save:A lush, atmospheric mix of intrigue, artful world-building, and star-crossed romance. Not flawless, but captivating - especially if you love samurais, assassins, and Asian-inspired fantasy. Worth a try!
'Across the Nightingale Floor' is a fantasy novel set in an alternate version of feudal Japan, where the story follows a young boy named Tomasu who discovers he is a member of a special clan with unique abilities. The plot involves themes of treachery, love, duty, and revenge as Tomasu, now known as Takeo, navigates his new identity, loyalties, and desire for vengeance. The writing style is described as light, engaging, and imaginative, transporting readers to a world scented with feudal Japan through an exciting and vindictive narrative.
The book alternates between the perspectives of two main characters, Tomasu and Kaede, who are both entangled in the power struggles of feudal Japan. As their stories unfold, the reader can predict a love interest between them, adding a layer of intrigue to the plot. Despite some predictable elements, the book is praised for its poetic descriptions, insights into Japanese culture, and the blend of historical fiction with fantasy elements, creating a captivating and immersive reading experience.
But when I did get back, muddy from sliding down the hillside, bruised from fighting, once bleeding great spouts of blood from a stone wound to the head (I still have the scar, like a silvered thumbna...2002•309 pages - #10
Save:A smart, original spin on werewolf lore with genuine pack politics, a tough heroine, and a focus on belonging over bite-sized action. Great for fans of paranormal YA who want something deeper than another wolf-boy romance.
Raised by Wolves is a captivating story about Bryn, a human girl raised by werewolves after a tragic incident involving her parents. The plot follows Bryn as she navigates through pack life, trying to maintain her individuality while also uncovering mysteries surrounding her past. The writing style is engaging, with a mix of humor, action, and a touch of romance that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.
His eyes narrowed slightly. On a human, the same motion would have conveyed sharp irritation, but on Callum’s face, the expression was mild, until and unless you looked for the power behind the gaze a...January 2010•437 pages
