Books matching: minimal exposition
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- #1
'Journey Under the Midnight Sun' by Keigo Higashino is a complex and intricate Japanese crime novel that spans two decades, from 1973 to 1992. The story follows the lives of two central characters, Ryo and Yukiho, as they grow up and approach middle age, with connections and coincidences hinting at something more beneath the surface. The novel is precise, focused, and fast-paced, with well-developed characters, unexpected twists, and a fascinating plot that brings everything together like a fine clockwork mechanism at the end.
Higashino's writing style in 'Journey Under the Midnight Sun' is described as different from his Detective Galileo series, offering a unique take on the crime genre. The book initially feels disjointed due to its serialization in a magazine, but as the story progresses, threads start to pull together, suspicions arise, and a building sense of menace keeps the reader engaged. With a labyrinthine plot, numerous twists and turns, and a dark turn towards the end, the novel keeps readers gripped and eager to unravel the mystery.
Sasagaki left the station and headed west along the tracks. Despite being October it was still dreadfully muggy, yet the ground was dry so when a truck sped by it sent up clouds of dust. He frowned an... - #2
'The 39 Steps' by John Buchan is a classic espionage thriller set before World War I that follows the protagonist, Richard Hannay, as he becomes entangled in a plot to undermine the British war effort. The story is filled with suspense, narrow escapes, and a race against time as Hannay tries to decipher a coded notebook, evade both murderers and police, and ultimately expose the sinister conspiracy. The writing style is fast-paced, engaging, and immersive, transporting readers to the Scottish borders and capturing the tension and excitement of the era.
I returned from the City about three o’clock on that May afternoon pretty well disgusted with life. I had been three months in the Old Country, and was fed up with it. If anyone had told me a year ago... - #3
In "All Systems Red," readers are introduced to Murderbot, a rogue cyborg struggling to navigate its identity and emotions while protecting a survey team on a routine mission that quickly turns into a complex web of conspiracy and danger. The novella delves into themes of artificial intelligence, personhood, empathy, and the blurred lines between human and non-human entities. Through Murderbot's unique perspective and wry narration, the story unfolds as a mix of action, mystery, and character exploration, offering a fresh take on the sci-fi genre.
I COULD HAVE BECOME a mass murderer after I hacked my governor module, but then I realized I could access the combined feed of entertainment channels carried on the company satellites. It had been wel... - #4
"Range of Ghosts" by Elizabeth Bear is a fantasy novel that intricately weaves together elements from Mongol, Turkic, and Tibetan traditions. The story follows two main characters, one resembling a Mongol and the other a Tibetan, as they navigate a world filled with politics, magic, and fantastic beasts. The book is praised for its unique world-building, engaging characters, and complex plot that sets the stage for a promising fantasy trilogy.
Ragged vultures spiraled up a cherry sky. Their sooty wings so thick against the sunset could have been the column of ash from a volcano, the pall of smoke from a tremendous fire. Except the fire was ... - #5
'Gardens of the Moon' in the series 'Malazan Book of the Fallen' by Steven Erikson introduces readers to a vast and complex world filled with intricate plots and fascinating characters. The story weaves together multiple storylines that eventually converge, creating a rich and compelling narrative that challenges readers with its depth and scope. Erikson's writing style immerses readers in a world where alliances shift, actions are complex, and choices have profound consequences, all while exploring themes of power, magic, and the involvement of gods in mortal affairs.
“Prod and pull,” the old woman was saying, “’tis the way of the Empress, as like the gods themselves.” She leaned to one side and spat, then brought a soiled cloth to her wrinkled lips. “Three husband... - #6
Set in a future where human worlds are organized in two empires - the Old Empire and the New Empire, both ruled by immortal emperors who have sworn to respect the interests of the guild of Webbers, 'A Matter of Oaths' is a space opera filled with political intrigue, lost identities, love, and emperors. The story follows Rafe, an amnesiac webber with a mysterious past, as he joins the crew of the patrol ship Bhattya and becomes entangled in events that threaten the stability of the galaxy. With elements of cyberpunk, queer romance, and complex character dynamics, the narrative unfolds through a mix of action-packed sequences and detailed world-building.
The writing style of 'A Matter of Oaths' is described as tight, fast-paced, and wholly enjoyable, with engaging main characters, twists and turns that keep the pages turning, and a satisfying ending that leaves readers wanting more. The book delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of breaking oaths, all set against a backdrop of intergalactic power struggles and technological advancements that shape the future of the universe.
That I will serve my people to the best of my ability, in every way that I am able to serve, respecting their beliefs and taking responsibility for their well-being, and causing no harm to any unless ... Scenting the Dark and Other Stories by Mary Robinette Kowal is a collection of short stories that showcase the author's ability to evoke emotion and create authentic characters in unforgettable scenes. Each story in the collection explores different themes such as fear, relationships, and the power of memories, all while demonstrating Kowal's talent for world-building and efficient storytelling. From a mysterious tale about a young artist's memories to a chilling story set in a hospital bed, Kowal weaves together narratives that range from optimistic and heartwarming to dark and unsettling, leaving readers with a diverse and impactful reading experience.
- #8
'Diabolical' in the series 'Jake Hatcher' by author Hank Schwaeble is a supernatural thriller where our hero, Jake Hatcher, battles against salvation and damnation, facing evil forces in Southern California, particularly in the form of The Hellion. Readers found the writing style to be solid in third person with minimal narrative, keeping the pace fast and engaging. is described as a sequel that doesn't fall flat like many others, with improvements over the original and a storyline that successfully straddles the horror thriller genre.
(Also, see 8 recommendations for the series Jake Hatcher ) - #9
The Land: Predators by Aleron Kong is a captivating litrpg novel that takes readers on a journey following Richter's transformation from a displaced Earthling to a formidable warrior facing new challenges and adversaries. The book is praised for its intricate world-building, engaging plot progression, and the introduction of new chaos seeds from Earth, adding depth to the characters' arcs.
The stone around the cave mouth began to shudder. Pieces fell off, and Richter feared he had triggered another earthquake. The tremors eased though and the stone of the cave began to flow. It resha...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Chaos Seeds ) - #10
"Heart's Blood" by Jane Yolen is the second installment in the Pit Dragon Chronicles series. It follows the main character, Jakkin, as he navigates the complex world of Austar IV, dealing with political intrigue, rebels, and personal relationships. The story delves into themes of loyalty, responsibility, and coming of age, all set against the backdrop of a society where dragons are central to the culture. Yolen's writing style is described as thought-provoking and original, with a focus on creating a richly detailed world that feels natural and immersive to the reader.
THE SECOND MOON had just lipped the horizon when Jakkin checked the barn again. His great red dragon, Heart’s Blood, was near her birthing time, and he was more nervous than she. All day he had wander...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Pit Dragons )