Books matching: personal obsession
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'The Devil of Nanking' by Mo Hayder is a haunting and thought-provoking novel that delves into the atrocities of the Nanjing Massacre in 1937. The story follows Grey, an English woman obsessed with uncovering the truth about the massacre, and Shi Chongming, a Chinese professor who holds a key piece of evidence. As Grey navigates through Tokyo, she finds herself entangled in a dangerous mission involving an old Yakuza boss and a mysterious Chinese folk remedy. The narrative weaves together themes of history, war, love, and mental health, culminating in a gripping and heart-wrenching tale that explores the depths of human darkness and redemption.
The writing style of 'The Devil of Nanking' is described as beautifully written, deeply disturbing, and meticulously paced. The author, Mo Hayder, skillfully blends elements of crime fiction, mystery, and horror, creating a narrative that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. The characters, including the protagonist Grey, the Chinese professor, and the menacing Yakuza boss, are vividly portrayed, each with their own dark secrets that contribute to the overall atmosphere of tension and suspense.
Sometimes you have to really make an effort. Even when you’re tired and hungry and you find yourself somewhere completely strange. That was me in Tokyo that summer, standing in front of Professor Shi ... - #2
Save:St. Petersburg by Andrei Bely is a complex and dense novel set during the first socialist revolutions in Russia in 1905. The story follows Nikolai Ableukhov, an anarchist revolutionary, as he attempts to plant a bomb in his father's study. The novel covers a period of about 24 hours and is known for its modernist narrative viewpoints, psychological slants, and political themes. The book is described as a 'father and son' novel as well as a story about revolution, with a touch of horror and comic absurdity. The unique writing style of the author creates a haunting and fascinating atmosphere that delves into the depths of abstract feelings and complexities.
Apollon Apollonovich Ableukhov came of most respected stock: he had Adam as his ancestor. And this is not the main thing: incomparably more important here is the fact that one nobly-born ancestor was ... - #3
Save:"The Secret in Their Eyes" by Eduardo Sacheri is a compelling novel that follows Benjamin Chaparro, a retired deputy clerk, as he delves into a cold case murder involving the young woman Liliana Morales. Set against the backdrop of political turmoil in Argentina, the story alternates between the present and past, exploring Chaparro's personal struggles, failed relationships, and his unrequited love for Irene. The book skillfully weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and societal commentary, keeping the reader engaged as the plot unfolds with unexpected twists and turns.
The narrative not only focuses on the murder investigation but also delves into Chaparro's introspections about his life, love, and the impact of historical events like the Dirty War. Sacheri's writing style is praised for its thoughtful and poetic language, which captures the emotional depth of the characters and the haunting atmosphere of the story. Through well-developed characters and a multi-layered plot, the book offers a poignant reflection on justice, love, and the complexities of human relationships.
I’m not sure about my reasons for recounting the story of Ricardo Morales after so many years. I can say that what happened to him has always aroused an obscure fascination in me; perhaps the man’s fa... - #4
Save:'Brown's Requiem' by James Ellroy is a classic hard-boiled detective novel that showcases the early attempt of the author at crime writing. Set in 1980, the book follows a compelling protagonist who is a recovering alcoholic with a unique perspective on right and wrong. The story is filled with mystery, romance, violence, and a touch of philosophy, keeping readers engaged and wondering as they turn the pages. Ellroy's writing style in this debut novel is described as well-crafted, with a complex plot that moves the story along seamlessly.
- #5
Save:Climbers by M. John Harrison is a novel that delves into the world of British climbers in the early to mid-1980s, showcasing their passion for the sport that borders on obsession. The book is described as a series of episodes with a climbing theme, set against the backdrop of the extraordinary drought of 1984 in the North of England, providing a snapshot of a group of climbers navigating life's challenges and adventures. The novel is narrated by Mike, a character who shares similarities with the author, offering a glimpse into the respectable fringes of British society during that era.
Harrison's writing style in Climbers is praised for its hypnotic and compulsive nature, drawing readers into the minds of carefully drawn characters as they grapple with their motivations and desires. The book is noted for its brilliant descriptions, dark humor, and devastating portrayal of characters, using climbing not just as a backdrop but as an arena to study human nature and relationships.
I went by bus on a wet day in January to the indoor practice wall of a private sports centre near Leeds. It wasn’t very successful. Some of the problems there are quite intimidating, with crux moves w... - #6
Save:"True Crime Addict" by James Renner delves into the mysterious disappearance of Maura Murray, a Massachusetts college student who vanished without a trace. Renner intertwines the investigation of Murray's case with his own personal struggles and demons, creating a unique blend of true crime storytelling and memoir. The author's writing style combines detailed research, personal anecdotes, and dark family history, offering readers a deep dive into the complexities of the case and Renner's own experiences.
The day my lawsuit against my former newspaper was settled, I drove out to the Lodge, the nudie bar on State Route 14. This was in 2009. For the last six years I had worked as a reporter. Not the sort... - #7
Save:Tempted by Jess Michaels is the third installment in The Wicked Woodleys series, focusing on the story of Gabriel Woodley, the youngest son obsessed with finding his missing twin sister. The book delves into Gabriel's emotional journey, his struggle with personal relationships, and his unexpected feelings for Juliet Gray, a healer who helped save his mother's life. As Gabriel grapples with his obsession and budding attraction to Juliet, the story unfolds with twists, turns, and a side plot involving his mother and Juliet's father, adding depth to the narrative.
Tempted weaves together two love stories, portraying the complex dynamics between Gabriel and Juliet, as well as exploring the magnetic chemistry and shared history between the characters. The writing style captures the emotional depth of the characters, the passion underlying their interactions, and the challenges they face in reconciling their desires with the obstacles in their path.
(Also, see 6 recommendations for the series The Wicked Woodleys ) Blind Descent is a narrative non-fiction book that follows the exploits of elite cavers, highlighting the risks they take to explore the deepest caves on Earth. The book delves into the myriad dangers faced by these supercavers, portraying them as both bonkers and heroic. It blends elements of adventure, science, history, and character development, providing a thrilling and suspenseful read.
The story revolves around two main expeditions led by Bill Stone in Mexico and Alexander Klimchouk in the Republic of Georgia, both in pursuit of discovering the world's deepest caves. The book explores the struggles, personal turmoil, and dangers faced by these explorers, offering insights into the extreme conditions and challenges of cave exploration. Despite some criticisms regarding the writing style and focus on personalities over technical aspects, Blind Descent presents an intriguing look into the world of supercaving.
BILL STONE, HALF A MILE DEEP and three miles from the entrance in a Mexican supercave called Cheve, did stop. Red-and-white plastic survey tape hung across the narrow passage he had been ascending. Th...- #9
Save:'The Fly Trap' by Fredrik Sjoberg is a delightful and quirky exploration of entomology, intertwined with musings on life, history, and the pursuit of meaning in a disorderly world. Through the lens of hoverflies, the author takes readers on informative and amusing journeys, weaving together narratives about nature, art, philosophy, and the joy of investigation and discovery. Sjoberg's writing style is described as leisurely, quirky, and wry, making it an engaging read that goes beyond the surface topic of insects, appealing to butterfly enthusiasts, natural history enthusiasts, and those interested in Scandinavian authors.
It was during the time I wandered the streets near Nybroplan with a lamb in my arms. I remember it so well. Spring had come. The air was dry, almost dusty. The evening was chilly but still carried the... - #10
Save:'Pig Island' by Mo Hayder tells the story of a reporter, Joe Oakes, who is commissioned to investigate an isolated religious community on an island. As Joe delves into the mystery surrounding the community and its leader, Malachi Dove, he uncovers shocking truths and dark secrets. The narrative alternates between Joe's perspective and that of his wife, Lexie, adding depth to the storytelling. is a blend of mystery, thriller, and horror elements, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers engaged until the shocking conclusion.
The alarms first went off in my head when the landlord and the lobsterman showed me what had been washed up on the beach. I took one look at the waves breaking and knew right then that cracking the Pi...
