Books matching: magic vs technology
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- #1
Despite mixed opinions on character development and magic systems, "Triplet" by Timothy Zahn is praised for its imaginative world-building and blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements. The plot revolves around interplanetary adventures, spirits, demons, and a unique mix of magic and technology. The story follows characters Ravagin, Danae, and Hart as they navigate through different worlds with gates between them, facing challenges while unraveling mysteries and dealing with magical forces.
- #2
In a world vaguely Russian during the early 20th century, the book 'Lord of Snow and Shadows' by Sarah Ash follows the story of Gavril, a young artist who discovers his true heritage after his father's death, inheriting a baleful spirit that grants immense power at a ghastly price. The plot weaves together elements of shamanism, political intrigue, and conflicting powers of magic and technology, creating a complex narrative with multiple viewpoints and surprising plot twists. The writing style is described as competently written, with a clear, brisk prose full of detail, set in a unique world inspired by Russia and featuring 18th-century technology, ghosts, and a mix of dark and light passions.
Gavril Andar looked up from unpacking his oil paints and saw Altessa Astasia Orlova in the doorway. She was dressed for her portrait in a plain muslin dress of eggshell blue, her cloud of dark hair ti... - #3
A Big Ship at the Edge of the Universe follows an ensemble cast in a space opera setting, featuring treasure hunting, salvaging, and heisty moments. The plot revolves around a super warship that disappeared during a previous conflict, with protagonists being hunted by mysterious assailants and being drawn into a crew on a quest to uncover the truth behind the powerful ship. The writing style combines elements of space opera, magic systems, and action-packed sequences to create an exciting and engaging adventure.
The straight opened before the two race cars: an oily river, speckled yellow by the evening sun. They shot down the tarmac in succession like sapphire fish, streamers of wild magic billowing from thei... - #4
'The Fire Eternal' by Chris d'Lacey is the fourth installment in 'The Last Dragon Chronicles'. The story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of David Rain, a bestselling author, who is now one with the polar bears and embarks on a journey to the North Pole. The plot delves into the relationships of characters like Zanna, Lucy, and Alexa, who are linked to dragons by blood and possess magical abilities. As the characters face challenges from aliens, darkness, and mythical creatures, the narrative unfolds with elements of suspense, emotion, and fantasy. The writing style of the book is described as weaving real-world events with mythology, creating a captivating and imaginative tale that keeps readers engaged till the end.
1 ARCTIC ICE CAP, UNRECORDED TIME It began with a wind from another world. A fury unlike any other kind of blizzard. It tore a hole in the sky and screamed at the ice, forcing them together with an el...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Last Dragon Chronicles ) - #5
Magic Slays by Ilona Andrews is the fifth book in the Kate Daniels series, where Kate, now mated to the Beast Lord Curran, is running her independent detective magic agency. The plot revolves around a missing scientist, a terrorist plot, and a rogue vampire causing chaos. The book delves into Kate's past, her relationship with Curran, and the challenges they face together. The writing style is fast-paced, engaging, and filled with humor, while the characters are believable despite the fantastical elements in the story.
MY OFFICE OCCUPIED A SMALL, STURDY BUILDING ON Jeremiah Street, in the northeast part of town. Jeremiah Street used to be called North Arcadia Street, until one day a Southern preacher walked out in t...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Kate Daniels ) - #6
In "Blue Adept," Stile continues his journey through the parallel worlds of Phaze and Proton, facing perils and mysteries in both realms. The novel maintains a suspenseful and quickly paced narrative as Stile navigates the challenges of a tournament in Proton to earn his citizenship while also unraveling the plot against him in Phaze. The book delves deeper into the unique game system and the fascinating parallel worlds created by Piers Anthony, blending elements of science fiction and fantasy in an adventurous tale of self-discovery and danger.
A lone unicorn galloped across the field toward the Blue Castle. It was a male, with a glossy dark blue coat and red socks on his hind feet and a handsomely spiraled horn. As he moved he played a melo...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Apprentice Adept ) - #7
In "Heroes Die" by Matthew Woodring Stover, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through a dystopian world where actors are sent to a parallel universe to entertain the masses with violent and action-packed performances. The main character, Hari Michaelson, plays the role of Caine, a top assassin in the parallel Earth called Overworld. As the story unfolds, Hari must navigate political intrigue, magickal plots, and the desperate race to save his estranged wife, who is in danger in the other world. The book expertly blends elements of science fiction, cyberpunk, and fantasy, offering readers a fast-paced and compelling narrative filled with gritty violence and convoluted betrayals.
The writing style in "Heroes Die" is described as epic and engaging, making readers feel like they are watching an adrenaline-pumping action movie. The book's plot is praised for its twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Hari's quest to rescue his wife amidst the complex societal structures of both Earth and Overworld. Despite its violent and graphic nature, the novel delves into deeper philosophical themes about humanity's fascination with violent entertainment, offering readers a thought-provoking experience alongside the thrilling action sequences.
The bedchamber of Prince-Regent Toa-Phelathon is really pretty restrained, when you consider that the guy in the bed there rules the second-largest empire on Overworld. The bed itself is a modest eigh... - #8
The Broken Lands is the first novel in the Empire of the East series, following the adventures of Rolf, a sixteen-year-old peasant boy, as he navigates a post-apocalyptic world filled with magic and technology remnants from a bygone era. The story unfolds as Rolf's peaceful life is shattered by the arrival of Castle soldiers, leading him to join a resistance group, encounter mysterious characters like the peddler Mewick, and uncover secrets about the ancient world of Ardneh and the Elephant. The narrative is rich in vivid details, showcasing a blend of sorcery and swordplay that captivates readers with its clear and breezy writing style.
The Satrap Ekuman’s difficulties with his aged prisoner had only begun when he got the fellow down into the dungeon under the Castle and tried to begin a serious interrogation. The problem was not, as... - #9
Tom Holt's 'Who's Afraid of Beowulf' is a silly caper story involving a hidden cache of Norsemen, an archaeology graduate student, and their journey through Britain while trying not to gather too much attention and failing. It is an example of a very rare Fantasy Comedy story, surprisingly gentle despite involving Vikings and an evil immortal wizard. The book blends real knowledge of old legends with modern British humor, creating a delightful confection of a story where Vikings wake up after a 1,200-year nap to save the world from a dark wizard and his wolf associate. The plot involves culture shock as the Norse crew wakes up in the late 20th century, with quirky characters and a kooky plot reminiscent of Terry Pratchett's DiscWorld books.
‘Tourists, I expect,’ said the archaeologist disapprovingly. She had decided that the Highlands were authentic and good; therefore, any malice towards them must have proceeded from uncomprehending out... - #10
'The City's Son' by Tom Pollock is an urban fantasy novel that follows the story of Beth Bradley, a graffiti artist who feels lost and seeks solace in the streets of London. Her life takes a magical turn when she encounters Filius Viae, the ragged crown prince of London, and they embark on a journey to stop the evil Reach from taking over the city. The book paints a darkly enchanted picture of London, filled with bizarre creatures and a powerful goddess ruling as Lady of the Streets, Mater Viae. The plot unfolds with themes of love, loss, bravery, and the struggle between good and evil, all set in a gritty, surreal version of London's streets.
I’m hunting. The sun sits low over Battersea, its rays streaking the brickwork like warpaint as I pad through the railway tunnels. My prey can’t be far ahead now: there’s a bitter, burnt stench in the...