Books matching: overwhelming number of characters
16 result(s)
Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution by Simon Schama is a detailed and engaging history of the French Revolution, exploring the factors that led to this tumultuous period. Schama's writing style captivates readers with vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, delving into the lives of both revolutionary leaders and ordinary citizens. The book covers the evolution of France from a monarchy to a republic, highlighting the social upheaval and political transformations that occurred during this time.
Schama's narrative provides a comprehensive overview of the French Revolution, focusing on the brutality and violence that characterized the era. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, he offers a nuanced portrayal of the key events and figures, shedding light on the complexities of this pivotal moment in history. Readers are immersed in a vivid account of the revolution, from the upheaval in values to the reign of terror, providing a comprehensive understanding of the societal changes and political upheavals that defined this period.
In the brilliant spring of 1778, Talleyrand went to pay his respects to Voltaire. Even in a society where the worldliness of the clergy was notorious, this was a little unseemly. The ink had hardly dr...- #2
Save:City of God by Alison Entrekin, Paulo Lins is a complex novel set in the slums of Brazil, depicting the intertwining lives of numerous characters amidst a backdrop of crime and social issues. The book explores the gritty reality of life in the favelas, showcasing the struggles, violence, and hopelessness experienced by the inhabitants. The narrative is nonlinear, with multiple stories being told simultaneously, making it challenging to follow at times. Despite the graphic nature of the content, the book aims to shed light on the harsh realities of the favelas and the impact of tragic events on individuals.
The writing style of City of God has been described as both simplistic and hard to understand by different readers. Some appreciate the detailed and fluid characters, the fast-paced storytelling, and the lack of sentimentality in portraying the dispossessed. Others find the abundance of characters overwhelming, with many remaining undeveloped and blending together, making it difficult to keep track of the plot. The novel's structure, characterized by abrupt shifts in perspective and a lack of focus on specific characters, adds to the complexity of the reading experience.
Seconds after leaving the haunted mansion, Stringy and Rocket were smoking a joint down by the river in the Eucalypt Grove. Completely silent, they only looked at one another when passing the joint ba... - #3
Save:'Ink Mage' by Victor Gischler follows the story of Rina Veraiin, a duke's daughter who escapes her home when it is attacked through treachery. With the help of her loyal bodyguard, she seeks refuge in the mountains and is inked by a mage, granting her special powers. As Rina embarks on a journey of vengeance to reclaim her city, she faces obstacles, battles, and the complexities of navigating a world filled with magic and power struggles. The plot unfolds with twists, revealing the characters' motivations and the consequences of their actions, all within a fantasy setting reminiscent of other popular series like Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones.
The writing style of 'Ink Mage' is a blend of action, magic, and character development, drawing readers into a world where alliances are tested, betrayals are uncovered, and the quest for power drives the narrative forward. The story weaves together elements of war, survival, and innocence, while exploring themes of loyalty, revenge, and the impact of individual choices on the fate of kingdoms and characters alike.
The fortified watchtower overlooking the Eastern Sea was officially called Ferrigan’s Tower for the engineer who’d built it, but to the miserable soldiers stationed there, the post was known as the Sn... - #4
Save:Eruption, a collaboration between James Patterson and the late Michael Crichton, spins an intense tale set on the Hawaiian island of Mauna Loa, where scientists race against time to prevent a catastrophic volcanic eruption. The plot is fast-paced and filled with scientific insights, mainly regarding the dangers posed by volcanoes and the consequences of human intervention. Despite its gripping premise, the story suffers from an overwhelming number of characters and underdeveloped plot lines, leading to a muddled reading experience.
Patterson’s writing style shines through in the short, snappy chapters, making it easy to turn the pages, but it lacks the depth and meticulousness associated with Crichton’s earlier work. The science is present but not overly complex, allowing for a thrilling read without overwhelming the casual reader. While the book has its merits and presents an engaging narrative, many readers felt it fell short of the high expectations set by Crichton's legacy.
- #5
Save:'One Fifth Avenue' by Candace Bushnell is a novel set in New York City, exploring the lives of a diverse group of characters residing in a prestigious building. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, social status, relationships, and the pursuit of success in Manhattan. Through shifting perspectives, the author examines the complexities of human desires, intertwined with elements of real estate, money, and personal aspirations. The story unfolds with engaging plotlines, focusing on characters like Lola, Mindy, and James, each grappling with their own challenges and desires in a city filled with angst and machinations.
The writing style in 'One Fifth Avenue' is described as well-plotted, engaging, and unapologetically honest. Candace Bushnell captivates readers with a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The characters, though flawed and sometimes superficial, are brought to life with individuality and personality, making them memorable and relatable. Bushnell's storytelling prowess shines through as she weaves a tale that explores the intricacies of relationships, aspirations, and the pursuit of success in the bustling metropolis of New York City.
Houghton, who had raised Wheaten terriers on her estate on the Hudson. Wheaty had required two outings a day to the dog run in Washington Square Park, and Billy, who lived on Fifth Avenue just north o... - #6
Save:Author Barbara Wood brings her readers into the Egypt of King Farouk's era, gradually encompassing the times of Nasser, Sadat, and the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood. Much more than a history, it is a multi generational saga of a family and its many offshoots of clan, stories, and lives. Her treatment of the subjugation of girls and women reflects the dichotomy of their status today. Some prefer the old ways while others chafe at its restrictions and want freedom of their bodies, their minds, the lives they will lead and the possibility of having careers. The story lets you see and understand Egypt's history and culture. It is very interesting as it reflects Egyptian culture through the eyes of women of different generations of a family. This family novel is rich in history of the times, spanning from 1945 in Egypt until almost the present day.
Jasmine was surprised at herself. During the drive from Cairo International Airport, and earlier, during the long nonstop flight from Los Angeles, she had promised herself that she would not go anywhe... - #7
Save:In "Seventh Heaven" by Alice Hoffman, the story revolves around a divorced single mother, Nora Silk, who moves into a conservative American neighborhood in the late 1950s with her two children. Nora's unconventional lifestyle and appearance disrupt the status quo, leading to judgment and alienation from her neighbors. The book delves into the themes of societal expectations, motherhood, and the clash between traditional values and individuality, all set against a backdrop of magical realism. Through multiple perspectives, the author paints a vivid picture of suburban life, capturing the struggles and transformations of the characters in a community on the brink of change.
Hoffman's writing style in "Seventh Heaven" is characterized by its blend of domestic mundanity with elements of the supernatural, creating a nuanced and evocative narrative. The story unfolds through various characters' viewpoints, offering insightful observations on human emotions and societal norms. With a touch of magic and folklore, Hoffman weaves a tale that challenges the facade of the American Dream and explores themes of acceptance, identity, and the complexities of relationships in a suburban setting.
LATE IN AUGUST, THREE CROWS took up residence in the chimney of the corner house on Hemlock Street. In the mornings they set up a racket that could wake the dead. They picked up stones in their beaks ... - #8
Save:"Georgette and the Unrequited Love" in the series "Sisters of Castle Fortune" by Alicia Cameron follows the story of Georgette, a loyal and brave heroine who is considered on the shelf at twenty-one after a few unsuccessful seasons. Living in a crumbling historic castle with a horridly appalling father, Georgette is tasked with organizing a house party to help her sister find a match, all while dealing with unrequited love for Lord Lucian Onslow. As the plot unfolds, the book explores themes of romance, unrequited love, family dynamics, and the challenges faced by Georgette in aristocratic Regency England.
- #9
Save:Horse Heaven by Jane Smiley is a novel that delves into the world of thoroughbred horse racing, showcasing the lives of various characters connected to the industry - breeders, owners, trainers, grooms, jockeys, and bettors. The narrative spans over two years, offering a panoramic view of the racing world through the perspectives of both humans and animals, particularly horses and a Jack Russell terrier. The book intricately weaves together multiple storylines, capturing the complexities of human relationships, career disruptions, friendship, tragedy, comedy, and the intricate web of connections within the racing community.
Throughout the book, Jane Smiley employs a unique writing style that balances between being slow-paced yet compelling, drawing readers into the rich cultural and historical aspects portrayed in the narrative. The characters, especially the horses, are vividly depicted, offering insights into their thoughts and emotions, making them as compelling as the human characters. Despite the sprawling nature of the plot and the abundance of characters, the book manages to keep readers engaged with its detailed exploration of the racing world and the nuanced portrayal of both the highs and lows experienced by its characters.
“Smiley has written wonderful books before, but in this one she’s stretched her legs, charged forward, and won the race.… Horse Heaven is slyly hilarious—epic in length but never heavy in tone.… Featu... - #10
Save:The Modigliani Scandal by Ken Follett is a novel set in the art world, revolving around art forgeries, auction houses, and the hunt for an undiscovered masterpiece by Modigliani. The story features a mix of characters, each with their own motivations and agendas, all intertwined in a plot filled with deception, intrigue, and unexpected twists. The writing style is described as being raw and not fully developed, with some readers finding it dated and lacking in depth compared to Follett's later works.
THE BAKER SCRATCHED HIS black mustache with a floury finger, turning the hair gray and unintentionally making himself look ten years older. Around him the shelves and counters were full of long loaves...
