Books matching: intricate adventures
100 result(s)
- #1
'The Luminaries' by Eleanor Catton is a lengthy and densely plotted book set during the gold rush in New Zealand in 1865 and 1866. The story revolves around a death and a swindle, involving a fortune in gold found in the cabin of Crosbie Wells. The plot is intricate, involving theft, fraud, perjury, mysticism, and a large cast of characters, narrated from the point of view of twelve men. The novel unfolds through a complex tale of White colonists, Maori superstitions, and intricate character interactions, all tied together by an astrological chart.
The twelve men congregated in the smoking room of the Crown Hotel gave the impression of a party accidentally met. From the variety of their comportment and dress—frock coats, tailcoats, Norfolk jacke... - #2
The Merlin Conspiracy by Diana Wynne Jones is a YA fantasy novel set in a world of multiple interconnected realms and magical powers. The story follows two teenagers, Roddy and Nick, who must work together to save the world of Blest from destruction by power-hungry wizards. Through alternating narratives, readers are taken on a journey filled with intricate world-building, complex magic systems, and a quest to stop an evil plot that threatens the magical balance of the land. The writing style is engaging, with vivid descriptions of magical elements, well-drawn characters, and a fast-paced plot that keeps readers hooked until the thrilling conclusion.
If you didn’t know Grundo, you’d think this was a generous offer, but it was a threat really. Grundo is dyslexic. Unless he thinks hard, he writes inside out and backwards. He was threatening me with ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Magids ) - #3
'The Revenge of the Dwarves' continues the epic saga of Tungdil and the inhabitants of Girdlegard, introducing new monstrosities and unexpected foes. The story unfolds with a mix of old and new characters, intricate adventures, and internal struggles faced by the protagonist, Tungdil, as he battles against evil forces threatening all life on Girdlegard.
(Also, see 75 recommendations for the series The Dwarves ) - #4
'The Gathering' in the series 'Hundred' by Vanessa Nelson follows the story of Yvonne, a Hunar who is a sorceress bound by oaths to help those in need. As the story progresses, we learn about Yvonne's past and the challenges she faces in keeping her adopted children safe while fulfilling her duties. The plot unfolds in an imaginary world filled with adventure, where Yvonne teams up with unexpected allies to solve mysteries and face unexpected dangers. The writing style gradually adds layers to the story, building up to an exciting climax while introducing three-dimensional characters that readers can care about.
- #5
'The Confusion' by Neal Stephenson is the second part of the Baroque Cycle, a series filled with historical fiction, adventure, and intricate storytelling. The book follows the intertwining tales of characters like Jack Shaftoe, Eliza, and Daniel Waterhouse as they navigate through Europe, North Africa, India, and beyond. The plot involves elements of derring-do, swashbuckling piracy, financial intrigues, and political maneuvering, all set against the backdrop of the late seventeenth century. Stephenson's writing style blends history with adventure, science with philosophy, and politics with religion, creating a dense and complex narrative that keeps readers engaged and intrigued.
I am speaking these words to a Presbyterian scrivener who followed our regiments down from our points of disembarkation around Belfast, and has hung out his shingle on a hut near Dundalk camp. From th...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Baroque Cycle ) - #6
"The Sin in the Steel" by Ryan Van Loan is the first book in the Fall of the Gods series, following the adventures of two best friends, Buc and Eld. Buc, a genius street rat, and Eld, a sensible ex-soldier, are hired by a trading company to investigate the mysterious disappearances of ships carrying sugar. Set in a world with multiple gods, mages, and dead gods, the story is a fantasy-packed adventure filled with pirates, swashbuckling violence, and gore. The main characters, Buc and Eld, have a Sherlock Holmes-Watson dynamic, with Buc's rapid mind needing to be slowed down with drugs and Eld's practicality balancing her intelligence. The plot involves uncovering the secrets behind the missing ships while navigating through warring religions, zombie pirates, and intriguing islands.
The writing style of the book is described as fast-paced and engaging, with solid world-building introduced gradually throughout the story. Despite some confusion regarding the magic system and terminology initially, readers found themselves sinking into the narrative and enjoying the relatable and funny characters, especially Buc and Eld. The book offers a mix of mystery, adventure, and humor, making it an entertaining read for those looking for a fantasy novel with intricate details and memorable characters.
Before I learned how to read, I thought knowledge was finite, dead and decaying inside old men’s skulls. Now I know the truth, that knowledge is living gold threaded through layers of dead parchment, ... - #7
Practice to Deceive, the first book in The Golden Chronicles series by Patricia Veryan, is an adventurous and romantic tale set in historical times. The story follows carriers who must hide from British troops and treasure hunters while embarking on thrilling adventures filled with romance. The plot is fast-paced and complicated, with well-developed characters and intricate cloak-and-dagger elements that immerse readers in the era of elaborate wigs and face paints.
The book introduces readers to the concept of the cyphers, which play a significant role in decoding the location of Jacobite treasure gathered to support Prince Charlie's failed attempt to claim the English throne. The narrative also touches on themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the redistribution of treasure to rightful families, adding depth to the historical context of the story.
- #8
In 'The Siege of Krishnapur' by J.G. Farrell, the story is set during the Great Mutiny of 1857 where an outpost of the British Empire comes under siege, leading to a clash between rationalism and spirituality, and the erosion of British ideals and way of life. The book focuses on the besieged British characters, depicting their struggle to maintain decorum and standards of behavior amidst deprivation and danger. The narrative explores themes of imperialism, colonialism, and the absurdity of the British justification of their colonial policy.
Anyone who has never before visited Krishnapur, and who approaches from the east, is likely to think he has reached the end of his journey a few miles sooner than he expected. While still some distanc... - #9
'Sea Witch' in the 'Sea Witch Chronicles' series by Helen Hollick is a thrilling tale of Captain Jesemiah Acorne's adventures on the high seas. Set in the 1700s, the narrative skillfully weaves historical fiction with elements of fantasy, introducing readers to a world of conflicts, battles, love, and vivid characters, both real and supernatural. The story follows Jesemiah's journey into piracy, showcasing the dangers and hardships faced during that era. With intricate plots, well-researched historical details, and a touch of magical realism, 'Sea Witch' offers a rousing tale that transports readers to a world of swashbuckling adventures and intriguing mysteries.
Hollick's writing style in 'Sea Witch' is praised for its vivid descriptions, well-developed characters, and the seamless integration of nautical terms and references, enhancing the overall reading experience. combines elements of romance, historical accuracy, and fantastical elements, creating a captivating narrative that appeals to readers who enjoy a mix of genres, from historical fiction to fantasy, in a setting that mirrors the allure of classic pirate tales.
Mermaid was moving fast, the ship bowling along with her sails filled, the canvas billowing, cordage creaking and straining. She climbed over the next wave, her bow lifting to linger a moment before s... - #10
Lords of the Deep is a horror novel that intertwines the modern day happenings in the small town of Lea Bay with the fabled history of pirates who once pillaged the town. The story follows a mother desperately trying to protect her son from vengeful ghost pirates and sea monsters, while a cop madly in love with her gets entangled in the unfolding chaos. The book expertly blends genre troupes, creating a fast-paced and adventurous plot filled with unexpected twists and character development. The authors, Tim Meyer and Patrick Lacey, skillfully weave the past events of the town with the current issues, creating a complex and intricate storyline that keeps readers engaged.