Books matching: long island setting
20 result(s)
- #1
Save:'The Blunderer' by Patricia Highsmith is a psychological thriller that follows Walter Stackhouse, a man who harbors gruesome fantasies about his distant and neurotic wife, Clara. When Clara's body is found in a manner similar to another murder case, Walter becomes the prime suspect, while the actual murderer, Kimmel, goes unpunished. The story delves into the twisted minds of the characters, the blunders they make, and the manipulative tactics of a detective named Corby who is determined to prove their guilt.
The girl in the ticket booth was stupid, he thought, never had been able to make change fast. He tilted his fat bald head up at the inside of the lighted marquee, read NOW PLAYING!Marked Woman, looked... - #2
Save:The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt is a coming-of-age story set in 1967 during the Vietnam War era. It follows the protagonist, Holling Hoodhood, a 7th-grade student who initially believes his teacher, Mrs. Baker, hates him. Throughout the school year, Holling navigates various challenges such as family pressures, religious differences, bullies, and Shakespeare plays assigned by Mrs. Baker. As he learns to see beyond himself, Holling embarks on a journey of self-discovery, finding connections between the themes in Shakespeare's plays and his own life.
The book captures the historical and political context of the 1960s, portraying the impact of the Vietnam War on individuals like Holling. Through humor and poignant moments, The Wednesday Wars explores themes of friendship, family dynamics, self-realization, and the tumultuous period of the late '60s. It delves into Holling's relationships with classmates, teachers, and family members, highlighting his growth and maturity as he faces the challenges of adolescence.
Doug Swieteck once made up a list of 410 ways to get a teacher to hate you. It began with “Spray deodorant in all her desk drawers” and got worse as it went along. A whole lot worse. I think that thin... - #3
Save:Based on the provided opinions, "Night Fall" by Nelson DeMille is a gripping thriller that delves into the investigation of the real-life TWA Flight 800 crash in 1996. The story follows John Corey, an NYPD detective, and his wife Kate, as they uncover a potential conspiracy surrounding the crash. The book is praised for its well-researched plot, compelling characters, and the way it weaves together elements of suspense, humor, and real-life events like the TWA 800 disaster and 9/11. DeMille's writing style is described as smooth, compelling, and filled with clever details, although some readers find the humor at times excessive.
Bud Mitchell drove his Ford Explorer along Dune Road. Up ahead was a sign that said CUPSOGUE BEACH COUNTY PARK—OPEN DAWN TO DUSK. It was dusk, but Bud drove through an empty parking field, on the far ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series John Corey ) - #4
Save:Detective John Corey, recovering from gunshot wounds, is pulled into a murder investigation involving two biochemists from Plum Island. As Corey delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers secrets about biological weapons, buried pirate treasure, and a thrilling speedboat chase during a hurricane. The book is a fast-paced thriller set on the North Fork of Long Island, filled with dead bodies, murder mystery, treasure hunting, and witty dialogue from the sarcastic main character.
Through my binoculars, I could see this nice forty-something-foot cabin cruiser anchored a few hundred yards offshore. There were two thirtyish couples aboard, having a merry old time, sunbathing, ban... - #5
Save:'Richie' by Thomas Thompson is a true crime story that delves into the tragic descent of Richie, a teenage boy, into drug addiction and the impact it has on his family. The narrative explores the relationships within the Diener family, particularly between Richie and his father, George. As Richie's drug use escalates, the family struggles to find help and support in a society ill-equipped to handle the emerging drug epidemic of the late 1960s and early 1970s. culminates in a heartbreaking event where George, feeling cornered, makes a fateful decision that leads to a tragic ending.
The writing style of 'Richie' is described as gripping, intense, and personal. Thomas Thompson presents a raw and unflinching account of the Diener family's ordeal, without making excuses for any of the characters. The author weaves a narrative that draws the reader in, making them feel like a participant in Richie's harrowing journey from innocence to addiction, ultimately resulting in a devastating outcome.
Forty-three years before the snow fell to end the day at the Long Island cemetery, George Diener was born, in Brooklyn, in a nation about to slip into the Depression. He was a beautiful baby, with fai... - #6
Save:'The Shadow Year' by Jeffrey Ford is a well-written novel that follows the reminiscences of the main character as he reflects on his boyhood's Shadow Year, filled with family troubles and dark incidents tinged with horror, the paranormal, and supernatural elements. The story reads like contemporary fantasy with a touch of magic realism, as the protagonist, along with his older brother and younger sister, navigates through a neighborhood plagued by a killer, a ghost, and other mysterious occurrences. The narrative unfolds slowly, blending humor with creepy moments, creating a sense of tension and fear that is heightened by the children's unique perspective of the world around them.
Ford's depiction of Long Island in the early 1960s serves as a backdrop for the unfolding mystery, showcasing a community built on new beginnings but shadowed by hidden dangers and secrets. The novel captures the essence of childhood adventures and fears, portraying the protagonists' bond as they face the challenges of their dysfunctional family and a town plagued by unsettling events. Through the eyes of the children, the readers are taken on a journey that evokes nostalgia, mystery, and a sense of coming-of-age amidst a backdrop of supernatural occurrences and everyday struggles.
It began in the last days of August, when the leaves of the elm in the front yard had curled into crisp brown tubes and fallen away to litter the lawn. I sat at the curb that afternoon, waiting for Mi... - #7
Save:The Story Sisters by Alice Hoffman is a dark and beautifully written novel that follows the lives of three sisters, Elv, Meg, and Claire, as they navigate through trauma and tragedy in their own unique ways. The story delves into the complexities of sisterhood, family dynamics, and the impact of past events on the characters' present lives. Through magical realism and evocative writing, the book explores themes of love, loss, redemption, and the power of imagination in coping with life's challenges.
IT WAS APRIL IN NEW YORK CITY AND FROM THE WINDOW OF their room at the Plaza Hotel everything looked bright and green. The Story sisters were sharing a room on the evening of their grandparents’ fifti... - #8
Save:The Tender Bar: A Memoir by J.R. Moehringer is a heartfelt and candid memoir of a young man's search for male role models and father figures in the neighborhood bar of Manhasset, Long Island. The book delves into the author's coming-of-age journey, chronicling his struggles growing up without a father and finding mentorship in the colorful characters of the bar. Through a blend of humor, tenderness, and insightful storytelling, Moehringer paints a vivid picture of his youth, his relationships, and his pursuit of manhood amidst a backdrop of familial dysfunction and personal revelations.
Moehringer's memoir is praised for its engaging writing style that reads like fiction, its exploration of themes of manliness and friendship, and its ability to evoke laughter and tears in equal measure. The book offers a unique glimpse into the author's life, his search for identity, and the impact of his unconventional upbringing on his journey to adulthood. With vivid characterizations and poignant storytelling, The Tender Bar is a compelling narrative that resonates with readers through its warmth, humor, and introspection.
If a man can chart with any accuracy his evolution from small boy to barfly, mine began on a hot summer night in 1972. Seven years old, driving through Manhasset with my mother, I looked out the windo... - #9
Save:'The Two Mrs. Grenvilles' by Dominick Dunne is a gripping novel based on a true story that delves into the scandalous lives of high society. The plot revolves around the marriage of the heir to a wealthy family with a showgirl, leading to a unraveling of secrets, scandals, and ultimately murder. The writing style of Dunne keeps the reader riveted with plot twists, intrigue, and a generous glimpse into the world of the super-rich on Long Island.
The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of various characters, providing insights into their motivations, fears, and desires. Dunne's ability to bring to life the old moneyed world of aristocracy, while also shedding light on the darker aspects of society, makes this novel a compelling read for those interested in scandals, secrets, and the complexities of human nature.
The room was filled with the heady scent of roses past their prime. Pink petals fell from swollen blossoms in a Chinese bowl onto the polished surface of an ormolu escritoire. Although it was day, ros... - #10
Save:'Callahan's Crosstime Saloon' by Spider Robinson is a collection of short stories set in a unique saloon where regular patrons share quirky tales and experiences, often involving time travelers, aliens, and unusual characters. The book focuses on human emotions, psychology, and empathy rather than traditional action-packed sci-fi plots. The stories are interconnected by the setting of Callahan's Saloon, where visitors find solace, acceptance, and sometimes absolution for their troubles. The writing style is described as humorous, thought-provoking, and filled with puns, creating a warm and comforting atmosphere reminiscent of a good friend's embrace.
Callahan's Place was pretty lively that night. Talk fought Budweiser for mouth space all over the joint, and the beer nuts supply was critical. But this guy managed to keep himself in a corner without...
