Books matching: intense character motivations
13 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Ash Princess' by Laura Sebastian follows the story of Theodosia, a princess who witnessed her mother's murder and has lived in captivity for 10 years. The plot delves into themes of rebellion, friendship, betrayal, and the internal struggle of Theodosia as she navigates her identity and the choices she must make. The writing style is described as enthralling, original, and emotionally heavy, with a focus on character development and intricate world-building. is set in a fantasy world with elements of magic and court manipulation, creating a dark and mesmerizing atmosphere throughout the story.
Don’t look at their faces, don’t look, I tell myself. Nothing good ever comes of looking, of seeing their dull eyes and hungry mouths. Nothing good ever comes of seeing how much they look like me, wit... - #2
Save:'The Confession' by Jo Spain is a twisty thriller that revolves around the brutal attack on wealthy couple Harry and Julie McNamara by an intruder named JP Carney. The story is narrated from three perspectives - Julie, the wife; JP, the attacker; and Alice, the police officer investigating the case. As the narratives intertwine, the motives behind the attack and the dark secrets of the characters are gradually revealed, keeping the readers intrigued until the very end. The book delves into themes of wealth, betrayal, psychological complexities, and the consequences of past actions, creating a compelling and suspenseful storyline that explores the depths of human nature.
What does that even mean? I asked. To me, finance was a title sharp-suited men gave to ambiguous jobs in new-build office blocks in the capital. They weren’t real jobs. I grew up in a little village i... - #3
Save:'The Unseelie King' in the series 'Maze of Shadows' by Kathryn Ann Kingsley is a dark fantasy romance novel that delves into the complex relationship between the Unseelie King, Valroy, and Abigail. The story is filled with brutality, honesty, and intricate character dynamics, creating a world where love is entwined with poison thorns and deadly flowers. Readers are taken on a journey through a vividly crafted fae world where darkness battles light, life confronts death, and the characters navigate through layers of complexity and redemption.
The writing style of Kathryn Ann Kingsley in 'The Unseelie King' is described as engaging, insightful, and emotionally gripping. The author weaves a tale that captures the readers' attention with its sexy, scary, and intense narrative, drawing them into a world filled with fae lore, intricate relationships, and a fine balance between darkness and light. is praised for its rich world-building, well-developed characters, and the depth of emotions evoked throughout the series.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Maze of Shadows ) - #4
Save:'Othello' by William Shakespeare is a tragic play that delves into themes of racism, jealousy, revenge, and betrayal. The story follows the downfall of Othello, a Moorish general, manipulated by his ensign, Iago, into believing his wife, Desdemona, has been unfaithful. The play is renowned for its exploration of human emotions and motivations, showcasing the tragic consequences of deception and insecurity. Shakespeare's writing style in 'Othello' is characterized by its deep psychological insights, intricate character dynamics, and poignant dialogue that continues to resonate with modern audiences.
Shakespeare endures through history. He illuminates later times as well as his own. He helps us to understand the human condition. But he cannot do this without a good text of the plays. Without editi... - #5
Save:'The Land Where Sinners Atone' by V.F. Mason is a dark romance novel that follows the story of Phoenix Hale, a woman who goes through a traumatic event that changes her life drastically. The plot revolves around Phoenix's journey of survival, forgiveness, and finding love again, particularly with Zachary King, a man filled with remorse and seeking redemption. delves into themes of love, forgiveness, and the unmasking of a mysterious figure known as the Unsub, all while keeping readers on the edge with intense emotions and unexpected twists.
“That’s the last time we’ll make you an offer. My advice… take it. The only reason it’s even on the table is because you saved my wife’s life,” the DA says, pushing the paper in my direction as I star... - #6
Save:'No Gods for Drowning' by Hailey Piper is a thrilling genre mashup of horror, dark urban fantasy, noir detective story, and serial killer thriller set in a lore-rich alternative reality. The story follows Lilac Antonis as she navigates a world where ancient gods have left, monsters are hunting humankind, and a serial killer is sacrificing victims to her blood god mother. As the plot unfolds, various characters, including Lilac's lover Arcadia, former cop Alex, and his partner Cecil, get entangled in a dangerous investigation that reveals the hidden dangers lurking in their world. With a mix of mythology, noir, fantasy, Lovecraftian elements, LGBTQIA protagonists, and morally gray characters, this standalone novel offers a dense mythology, intense storytelling, and a mix of genres that keep readers engaged till the end.
- #7
Save:"Wicked King" in the Captive series by Julia Sykes follows the intense and captivating story of Stefano and Carmen, two characters entangled in a web of hatred, obsession, and desire. After a night of erotic domination that changed their lives, Carmen finds herself a captive of the ruthless cartel boss, Stefano. The plot delves into their push-and-pull dynamic, showcasing their emotional journey from intense hatred to complex feelings of love and desire. With themes of danger, violence, betrayal, and erotic tension, the book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as they witness the evolving relationship between Stefano and Carmen.
- #8
Save:'Pretty Little Wife' by Darby Kane is a domestic suspense novel that revolves around Lila Ridgefield, a former lawyer and current realtor, who is suspected of killing her husband, Aaron. The plot unfolds as Lila discovers her husband's dark secrets and plans to seek revenge, but Aaron goes missing, leading to a complex web of deception, investigation, and misdirection. As the story progresses, the reader is taken on a thrilling journey filled with unexpected twists, multiple suspects, and a suspenseful narrative style that keeps the reader engaged until the surprising ending.
Adrenaline raced through her as she tore their bedroom apart. Overturned the laundry basket and scattered the contents. Shoved the bed, banging her shin on the metal bed frame before pushing the mattr... - #9
Save:'The Wives' by Tarryn Fisher is a psychological thriller that follows Thursday, the second wife in a polygamous relationship. Her husband, Seth, sees her only on Thursdays while the other two wives live in a different city. The story revolves around Thursday's curiosity about the other wives, leading her to investigate and uncover dark secrets about her husband and the other women. As the plot unfolds, Thursday's obsession grows, ultimately leading to unexpected twists and turns that challenge her perception of reality and her own sanity.
The book delves into themes of polygamy, mental health, manipulation, and trust, as Thursday navigates through a complex web of deceit and unraveling relationships. The narrative builds suspense as Thursday's search for the truth uncovers shocking revelations about her husband and the other wives, culminating in a gripping and unpredictable ending that leaves readers questioning the characters' motives and the blurred lines between perception and reality.
He comes over on Thursday every week. That’s my day, I’m Thursday. It’s a hopeful day, lost in the middle of the more important days; not the beginning or the end, but a stop. An appetizer to the week... - #10
Save:'The Siren' by Katherine St. John is a thrilling novel set in the world of Hollywood, where a film crew arrives at a Caribbean island to shoot a movie called 'The Siren'. The story follows the intertwined lives of three women - Stella, a former actress looking to revive her career; Taylor, a young producer seeking redemption after a scandal; and Felicity, Stella's assistant on a quest for truth and revenge. As the plot unfolds, secrets are revealed, relationships are tested, and the characters' true motives come to light. The book features a mix of deception, love, crime, and Hollywood drama, with a mysterious and suspenseful narrative that keeps readers engaged.
The writing style of 'The Siren' is described as slow to start but gradually captivating, with a plot that thickens as the story progresses. The novel employs unreliable narrators, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue as readers are kept guessing about the true nature of the characters. The scenic tropical setting, complex characters, and glamorous yet complicated lives of Hollywood stars make for a compelling and immersive reading experience.
She was perched on a rock like a siren the first time I saw her, face upturned to the sun, copper skin wet with sea spray. Her toes dangled languidly into the mottled azure water while palm fronds flu...
