Books matching: morally complex character
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Thunderer' by Felix Gilman is a unique and complex fantasy novel set in the city of Ararat, filled with gods, oddities, and customs. The story follows multiple perspectives, including Arjun's quest to find the Voice, Jack's escape from a workhouse, and Captain Arlandes' adventures with a flying vessel. The city of Ararat itself is a character, constantly changing with competing gods and intellectual pursuits, making it a subgenre standout in city-centered novels.
He came to the city at the end of summer, over the sea; leaning out over the boat’s plain prow, scanning the horizon, nervously telling beads of scale and bone through his thin fingers. He’d crossed h... - #2
Save:Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland is a new adult fantasy novel featuring a thrilling heist plot. A group of six characters, all with mysterious pasts, comes together to assassinate a king and steal his crown. The narrative explores themes of deception, trust, and family, as the characters navigate their complicated relationships while trying to complete their mission. The story is told from multiple points of view, enhancing the depth of the characters and their individual arcs.
The writing style has received mixed reviews, with some readers praising the engaging plot and unique character dynamics. However, the quality of writing itself has been criticized for being expository at times. The romance is more subtle and acts as a subplot within the action-driven narrative. With a backdrop inspired by Korean mythology, the story unfolds in a dark and fast-paced world filled with intrigue and battles.
- #3
Save:'Red Country' by Joe Abercrombie is a gritty and brutal tale set in a fantasy western world where not very nice people make hard decisions and face the consequences. The story follows familiar characters from previous installments as they embark on a journey filled with violence, revenge, and unexpected alliances, blending elements of western and fantasy genres seamlessly.
The novel is praised for its engaging storytelling, sharp dialogues, and well-developed characters struggling with their flaws and pasts. Abercrombie's writing style is described as fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with wit, sarcasm, and dark humor, making 'Red Country' a satisfying and entertaining read for fans of the author's work.
They sat in front of Stupfer’s Meat House, which might’ve sounded like a brothel but was actually the worst place to eat within fifty miles, and that with some fierce competition. Shy perched on the s...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series First Law ) - #4
Save:'These Hollow Vows' by Lexi Ryan is a fantasy novel following the story of Brie, a human girl who despises the Fae. When her sister is taken by the Unseelie king, Brie is forced to enter the Fae lands to repay a debt and rescue her. The book features intriguing world-building, with distinct descriptions of the Unseelie and Seelie Courts, showcasing their unique customs and traditions. Brie discovers her own power as she navigates through the Fae realm, encountering betrayals, great love, and unexpected insights into her own identity.
The plot unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover the mysteries surrounding Brie's journey. The narrative explores themes of family loyalty, deception, and self-discovery, as Brie grapples with the challenges of saving her sister while facing moral dilemmas and complex relationships with the fae princes.
COOL SHADOWS WASH over my sweaty skin, welcoming me, disguising me. I could revel in the darkness—happily lie under the stars and let the night air unravel my knotted, overworked muscles—but I won’t w... - #5
Save:In 'Fair Catch' by Kandi Steiner, the story revolves around Riley Nova, a strong female character who joins the college football team to fulfill her twin brother's dream after he is paralyzed in an accident. The book explores the enemies-to-lovers trope between Riley and Zeke Collins, her brother's best friend whom she blames for the accident. The tension and chemistry between Riley and Zeke are palpable, leading to explosive moments in the story. The writing style captures the raw and real connection between the characters, especially Riley's journey of learning to trust again and Zeke's unwavering support for her.
- #6
Save:In "Max Seventeen" by Kate Johnson, readers are taken on a thrilling space adventure following the crew of the Eurydice as they uncover a plot to breed a superior military race. The story is filled with twists, red herrings, and shocking revelations that keep the readers engaged. The characters, especially Max and Riley, are well-developed and original, making them both relatable and intriguing. Johnson's writing style blends humor, action, romance, and mystery seamlessly, creating a fast-paced and exciting narrative that explores themes of identity, love, and resilience.
- #7
Save:'Night Angel Nemesis' by Brent Weeks is a dark and gritty fantasy novel that serves as the fourth book in the 'Night Angel' series. The story follows the characters Kylar and Vi through a complex and engaging plot that is set in the world of Midcyru and the Thousand Worlds. The writing style of the book is deep and first person, providing profound insights into the characters' thoughts and emotions, while also maintaining a sense of humor and amusement throughout the narrative.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Night Angel ) - #8
Save:'Suspicious Minds' by Gwenda Bond delves into the backstory of Eleven from the popular series 'Stranger Things.' The book introduces readers to a new era of American history, exploring the late 60's and early 70's, Nixon and Vietnam era. Through the characters of Terry Ives, Kali, and other volunteers at Hawkins National Laboratory, the author weaves a tale of mystery, friendship, and sacrifice, providing insight into the origins of Eleven's powers and the experiments conducted at the lab.
The narrative skillfully transitions between different character viewpoints, offering a glimpse into the emotional turmoil of the era, especially for women like Terry. Bond's writing style keeps readers engaged, blending historical context with elements of suspense and tragedy, ultimately adding a new layer to the 'Stranger Things' universe.
Terry pushed open the screen door and winced at the fragrant haze of smoke inside the apartment. Her waitress uniform—reddish pink with a white apron—would go from smelling like stray grease spatters ... - #9
Save:'Smiler's Fair' by Rebecca Levene is a dark and gritty fantasy novel that introduces readers to a world where gods walk among humans, monsters lurk in the shadows, and nothing is as it seems. The story follows a diverse cast of characters - including a princess negotiating an arranged marriage, a goat herder at the center of a prophecy, a male prostitute chasing his dreams, and a warrior seeking revenge - whose lives intertwine at the enigmatic Smiler's Fair. The book is a blend of epic and dark fantasy, featuring graphic scenes, intricate world-building, and morally complex characters set against a backdrop of unique mythology and a vibrant magical system.
The narrative is told from multiple points of view, allowing readers to experience the world through different characters' eyes and witness their personal growth and struggles. The writing style is described as skillful, engaging, and immersive, drawing readers into a world where gender roles and sexuality are balanced, and where nothing is black and white. Overall, 'Smiler's Fair' offers a refreshing take on traditional fantasy tropes, presenting a brutal and knife-sharp story that challenges readers' expectations and keeps them engaged till the end.
- #10
Save:'Age of Vice' by Deepti Kapoor is a compelling novel set in India, exploring the dark and corrupt underbelly of the country through the lens of Delhi-style gangsters. The story follows the character Sunny, a complex figure reminiscent of iconic film characters, as he navigates a world of wealth, cruelty, and suffering. The narrative weaves together multiple perspectives and intertwining fates, showcasing the disparity between the powerful and the powerless in Indian society. The book covers decades of lives, illustrating how individuals can become enmeshed in a criminal world and struggle to find happiness amidst brutality and corruption.
The writing style of 'Age of Vice' is described as explosive and immersive, with a sprawling narrative that captivates readers from the beginning. The prose, while at times violent and visceral, effectively portrays the extreme wealth and moral complexities of the characters. The book is praised for its cinematic quality, with each scene unfolding like a movie, evoking a vivid depiction of modern India and its societal challenges.
