Books matching: opium dens
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- #1
Save:In "The Ruby in the Smoke," Sally Lockhart, a recently orphaned 16-year-old, finds herself entangled in a complex mystery involving her father's death, a stolen ruby, opium dens, and sinister characters in Victorian London. As Sally navigates through the dark and dangerous alleys of the city, she must use her intelligence and courage to unravel the secrets hidden behind the smoke-filled opium dens and solve the mystery before it's too late. Pullman weaves a gripping tale filled with intrigue, betrayal, and treasure, drawing readers into a world of murder and suspense through vivid descriptions and compelling characters.
Sally Lockhart emerges as a strong and independent protagonist, defying societal expectations and facing off against villains while showcasing her cleverness and charm. The narrative unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Sally and her companions delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding her father's past and the enigmatic ruby. Pullman's skillful storytelling captures the essence of Victorian England, blending elements of adventure, danger, and dark secrets to create a captivating young adult mystery that appeals to readers of all ages.
On a cold, fretful afternoon in early October, 1872, a hansom cab drew up outside the offices of Lockhart and Selby, Shipping Agents in the financial heart of London, and a young girl got out and paid... - #2
Save:In "Only a Duke Will Do" by Tamara Gill, the story follows Lady Isolde Worthingham, who is betrayed by her best friend and her fiance, leading to a scandalous turn of events. Despite the turmoil, Isolde and the Duke of Moore, Merrick, find their way back to each other after years apart, navigating through love, heartache, and betrayal. The book is set in a modern regency era with a mix of 21st-century behaviors and sensibilities, creating a unique blend of historical and contemporary elements. The plot unfolds with dramatic and tension-filled events, but some readers find the prose to be turgid and the dialogue stilted, impacting the overall credibility of the story.
- #3
Save:Narcopolis by Jeet Thayil is a novel set in Bombay in the 1970s, revolving around an opium den that transitions to heroin from Pakistan. The narrative follows a diverse cast of characters, including artists, family men, gangsters, and a eunuch named Dimple, as their lives intertwine amidst the drug-fueled atmosphere. Thayil's writing style is described as dreamily hazy, capturing the essence of being under the influence of drugs, with a nonlinear timeline that adds to the drugged-up atmosphere of the story.
I WAS STRETCHED OUT, the khana empty in the dead hour of the afternoon, when Dimple asked what kind of book I was reading. It’s not a book, I said, it’s a magazine and this is a story about an Indian ... - #4
Save:The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is a classic tale exploring the consequences of vanity and moral degradation. The story follows Dorian Gray, a young man who makes a Faustian deal to retain his youth and beauty while his portrait ages and reflects the consequences of his debauched lifestyle. The novel delves into themes of the value of youth, the meaning of life, and the impact of one's actions on oneself and others, leaving readers pondering questions of free will and self-improvement. Wilde's writing style is described as brilliant, witty, and horrifying, with a focus on decadence, morality, and the consequences of one's choices.
The studio was filled with the rich odour of roses, and when the light summer wind stirred amidst the trees of the garden there came through the open door the heavy scent of the lilac, or the more del... Confessions of an English Opium Eater by Thomas De Quincey is an autobiography that delves into the author's experiences with opium addiction. The book explores De Quincey's journey from his early life, struggles with opium-induced hallucinations and nightmares, to his attempts to terminate his drug usage. Written in an erudite style seasoned with Greek terms and references to Ancient literature, the book focuses on opium as the central theme, showcasing both its positive and negative effects. De Quincey's narrative is a mix of detailed descriptions of his addiction, reflections on his experiences, and observations on the impact of opium on his mind and life.
The structure of the book includes sections dedicated to the pleasures and pains of opium, along with the author's confessions and preliminary accounts. De Quincey's eloquent prose weaves together his personal struggles with opium addiction, his encounters with various individuals, and his reflections on the societal norms and attitudes towards narcotics during his time. The book not only serves as a documentation of the author's opium use but also provides insights into the Romantic era, literary figures, and the personal struggles of an opium addict in the 19th century.
TO THE READER.—I here present you, courteous reader, with the record of a remarkable period in my life: according to my application of it, I trust that it will prove, not merely an interesting record,...- #6
Save:The House of the Scorpion follows the story of Matt, a teenage clone created for El Patron, a powerful drug lord ruling over an opium-growing empire on the border of the U.S. and Mexico. As Matt discovers his true purpose and the dark realities of his existence, he must navigate a world where clones are considered subhuman and face questions about identity, humanity, and the morality of cloning. The book is a blend of science fiction, thriller, and mystery elements, offering a realistic yet chilling portrayal of a future society controlled by power and greed.
Matt's journey from a sheltered child to a young boy fighting for his life unfolds in a world filled with complex characters and thought-provoking themes such as cloning, power dynamics, and the definition of humanity. The narrative delves into the struggles and conflicts faced by Matt as he seeks to escape his oppressive environment, leading to a riveting exploration of human nature, ethics, and the impact of technology on society.
Water bubbled through tubes that snaked around the warm, humid walls. Air was sucked into growth chambers. A dull, red light shone on the faces of the workers as they watched their own arrays of littl... - #7
Save:Set in Montreal during the 1900s, 'The Lonely Hearts Hotel' by Heather O'Neill follows the intertwined journeys of two orphans, Rose and Pierrot, through their highs and lows, despairs, and love. The book is described as a sad and magical fairytale, with a moody, eccentric tale of two people drawn together as though by fate. The story centers around their complementary talents - Pierrot as a piano prodigy and Rose as a choreographer, navigating through the seedy underbelly of Montreal while holding onto their mutual dream of a real show. O'Neill's writing style is praised for its brilliance, rich and thoughtful words, and the unique balance of whimsy and depravity, creating a dark and sometimes magical fairytale experience for the readers.
The orphanage was on the northern boundary of the city. If you went to where the city ended and then walked two thousand paces, you would come upon the orphanage, although it isn’t there now. It was a... - #8Droodby:
Save:'Drood' by Dan Simmons is a captivating historical literary mystery that delves into the friendship and rivalry between Charles Dickens and Wilkie Collins. The story is narrated through the eyes of Wilkie Collins, who recounts the final years of Dickens' life after a near-fatal train accident and his obsession with a mysterious figure named Drood. The novel weaves a tale of intrigue, darkness, and madness, exploring the complexities of Dickens and Collins' relationship and the haunting inspiration behind Dickens' unfinished work, 'The Mystery of Edwin Drood.'
I was out of town on the day of my friend’s disaster at Staplehurst, so it was a full three days after the accident that I received a message from my younger brother, Charles, who had married Dickens’... - #9
Save:Berlin 1929 opium dens, night clubs, debauchery and decadence set the backdrop for 'Babylon Berlin'. The novel follows detective Gereon Rath as he navigates a labyrinth of political and police intrigue, getting involved in the murder of an unidentified Russian and uncovering a plot to smuggle Russian gold and guns. The book is praised for its equal parts depth of detail, suspense, and complex characters, providing readers with a glimpse of the Weimar era through a thrilling narrative.
The writing style of 'Babylon Berlin' is described as well researched, clever, compelling, and intelligent, with excellent in-depth characters and a real feeling for the time and place. The book is noted for its descriptive, imaginative, and thoughtful storytelling that keeps readers engrossed from start to finish.
When would they return? In the darkness even the smallest noise seemed infernal; the quietest of whispers grew to a roar. Silence itself became an interminable throb in the ears. He had to pull himsel... - #10
Save:Naked Lunch by William S. Burroughs is a chaotic and fragmented novel that delves into the grotesque world of addiction, society, and human existence. Written in a stream-of-consciousness style reminiscent of Beat poetry, the book offers a dark and surreal commentary on the author's drug-induced experiences and observations. The narrative is plotless and filled with disturbing imagery, exploring themes of individual identity, societal control, and the interpenetration of individuals with society.
The book is a product of the Beat Generation, challenging traditional writing styles and experimenting with language in a way that mirrors drug-induced states. Burroughs' writing technique is described as visceral and hard, creating a series of metaphorical snapshots rather than a linear narrative. Despite its challenging content, the novel is recognized for its unique and unconventional approach to storytelling, making it a compelling yet unsettling read for those interested in exploring the boundaries of literature.
I can feel the heat closing in, feel them out there making their moves, setting up their devil doll stool pigeons, crooning over my spoon and dropper I throw away at Washington Square Station, vault a...
