Books matching: identity
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- #11
Twin sisters, Helen and Ellie, decide to swap identities as a prank, leading to a series of events where Ellie refuses to switch back, causing Helen to suffer mental torture and confusion. The narrative explores themes of identity, mental illness, family dynamics, and the consequences of playing a malicious game. The story is told through alternating timelines, providing a deep dive into the characters' past and present struggles, creating a psychologically unnerving and thought-provoking read.
Ribbons of sound. The bright streamer of a child’s giggle, an ice-cream van’s flourish swirling like a sparkler in the gloom, the chatter of a long-finished game. Birdsong spiralling, then stiffening ... - #12
One, No One and One Hundred Thousand is a novel that delves into the existential crisis of the protagonist, Vitangelo Moscarda, who starts questioning his identity after a seemingly insignificant comment about his nose from his wife. The book explores the themes of self-perception, societal expectations, and the construction of identity in a humorous and thought-provoking manner. Luigi Pirandello's writing style blends humor with deep philosophical insights, creating a narrative that keeps the reader engaged and reflective about the nature of existence.
- #13
'The Likeness' by Tana French is a psychological thriller that follows Detective Cassie Maddox as she goes undercover to impersonate a murder victim who bears a striking resemblance to her. The story delves into identity, manipulation, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. The plot is described as tense, unusual, and filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged. French's writing style is noted for its atmospheric and moody tone, reminiscent of authors like Donna Tartt and P.D. James.
This is Lexie Madison’s story, not mine. I’d love to tell you one without getting into the other, but it doesn’t work that way. I used to think I sewed us together at the edges with my own hands, pull...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dublin Murder Squad ) - #14
'Ancillary Justice' by Ann Leckie is a science fiction novel set in a future where humans have colonized the galaxy and space ships have humans directly controlled by ship AI as workers and soldiers. The protagonist, Breq, is the last remaining ancillary of a destroyed starship AI seeking revenge, navigating through interplanetary politics and exploring unique ideas of a possible future. The book delves into themes of identity, artificial intelligence, gender neutrality, and complex world-building, challenging the reader to interpret the intricacies of the narrative.
The writing style of 'Ancillary Justice' is described as compelling, with excellent world-building and intricate storytelling that slowly unfolds the plot. The use of female pronouns as the standard in a gender-neutral society, the concept of ancillaries, and the multiple POVs presented in a unique manner contribute to the richness of the narrative, making the reader ponder on themes of humanity, individuality, and culture in a thought-provoking manner.
The body lay naked and facedown, a deathly gray, spatters of blood staining the snow around it. It was minus fifteen degrees Celsius and a storm had passed just hours before. The snow stretched smooth... - #15
'His at Night' by Sherry Thomas is a historical romance that delves into the lives of two protagonists, Ellisande and Vere, who both hide their true selves behind masks. Ellisande uses her mask to cope with an abusive home life, while Vere's mask is crucial for his work as an undercover covert agent for the crown. The story revolves around the anger and frustration of the hero, Vere, as the heroine, Ellisande, forces him to confront his true feelings. The plot is filled with deception, hidden agendas, and a slow unraveling of the characters' facades.
London was emptying at the tail end of the Season. Vere had seen his brother off at the train station earlier in the day; tomorrow he himself was headed for Gloucestershire. There was no time like the...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The London Trilogy ) - #16
'The Namesake' by Jhumpa Lahiri is a compelling narrative that follows the life of Gogol Ganguli, a first-generation Indian American born in Boston to Bengali parents. The story delves into the complexities of cultural identity, family dynamics, and the struggle to find one's place in a foreign land. Lahiri's writing style beautifully captures the nuances of immigrant experiences, blending themes of tradition, assimilation, and self-acceptance.
The book intricately weaves together the stories of the Ganguli family, exploring the generational conflicts, personal growth, and emotional journeys of its characters. Through the lens of Gogol's coming-of-age tale, readers are taken on a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the search for identity amidst the clash of cultures and the weight of family expectations.
On a sticky august evening two weeks before her due date, Ashima Ganguli stands in the kitchen of a Central Square apartment, combining Rice Krispies and Planters peanuts and chopped red onion in a bo... - #17
"Last Night at the Telegraph Club" by Malinda Lo is a historical fiction novel set in 1950s San Francisco, focusing on the life of Lily Hu, a Chinese American girl navigating her identity and sexuality. Lily finds herself drawn to the underground lesbian community at the Telegraph Club, where she forms a deep connection with Kath. The book beautifully captures the complexities of Lily's experiences as she grapples with societal expectations, racism, and her burgeoning queer identity, all against the backdrop of the Red Scare and the Cold War era. Through vivid descriptions and intricate character development, the author paints a poignant coming-of-age story that delves into themes of love, acceptance, and self-discovery.
The narrative of "Last Night at the Telegraph Club" is richly layered with historical events and cultural nuances, providing readers with a compelling exploration of Lily's journey towards embracing her true self amidst a time of societal constraints and prejudices. Lo's writing style masterfully weaves together elements of romance, historical context, and personal growth, creating a captivating tale that immerses readers in the vibrant setting of 1950s San Francisco and the challenges faced by Lily as she navigates her identity in a world that seeks to confine her.
It was Friday night in the middle of the dinner rush, and the Eastern Pearl was almost full, but Lily knew immediately who Shirley was talking about. The red paper lanterns hanging overhead shed a war... - #18
"The Earl Takes All" by Lorraine Heath is a historical romance novel set in the Hellions of Havisham series. The story revolves around Edward Alcott, who is forced to impersonate his deceased twin brother, Albert, to fulfill his brother's dying wish of caring for Albert's pregnant wife, Julia. As Edward masquerades as his brother, he finds himself falling deeply in love with Julia, despite the deception. The plot is filled with emotional conflicts, love, guilt, and historical obstacles that the characters must navigate to achieve their happy ending. Heath's writing style is praised for creating complex and captivating relationships between characters that seem impossible but ultimately work out beautifully.
Mr. Edward Alcott, brother to the Earl of Greyling, met an untimely end during their recent travels in Africa. Sadder still is the knowledge that he failed to accomplish anything of note during his tw... - #19
'From Blood and Ash' by Jennifer L. Armentrout is a fantasy novel following the story of Poppy, the Maiden, who is chosen at birth for a mysterious role. The plot revolves around court politics, Poppy's day-to-day life, and the world of the Kingdom, filled with strife and dangerous creatures. As Poppy navigates her isolation and duties, she uncovers secrets about her heritage, the Ascension, and the ongoing conflict between different factions within the Kingdom. The writing style is described as engaging, with a focus on character development, world-building, and a slow-burn romance between Poppy and Hawke, the Royal Guard.
The book delves into themes of power, strength, and identity, as Poppy struggles with her restricted life as the Maiden while yearning for freedom and self-discovery. With a mix of fantasy politics, intriguing plot twists, and a strong female protagonist, 'From Blood and Ash' sets the stage for a complex and captivating series that explores the dynamics of love, power, and destiny in a high fantasy setting.
I looked up from my cards and across the crimson-painted surface to the three men sitting at the table. I’d chosen this spot for a reason. I’d…felt nothing from them as I drifted between the crowded t... - #20
'The Polish Boxer' by Eduardo Halfon is a novel in stories that blurs the lines between fact and fiction, exploring themes of nationality, identity, and the pursuit of truth. The narrative follows the protagonist, Eduardo, on a journey through various geographical and psychological borders, delving into his Guatemalan, Polish Jewish heritage and his experiences in places like Guatemala, Serbia, and North Carolina. The book is described as itinerant, fragmented, and non-linear, maintaining unity through Eduardo's narrative voice and encouraging readers to delve deeper into the layers of the stories.
Iwas pacing among them, moving up and down between the rows of desks as if trying to find my way out of a labyrinth. We were reading from a Ricardo Piglia essay. We read about the dual nature of the s...