Books matching: political conflict
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- #1
The Beast Player by Nahoko Uehashi is a fantasy tale set in a world where humans train beasts for battle, unaware of the harm caused to these animals. The story follows Erin, an orphan with a unique ability to communicate with these beasts, as she navigates the murky waters of state politics and learns to care for Royal Beasts while questioning the morals of their captivity. The writing style is described as enthralling, brilliantly written, and well translated, with themes of compassion, nature, and the balance between humanity and nature reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli movie.
A huge saloh tree stood on the lakeshore, its blossom-laden branches stretching over the water. The soft white petals shimmered like cotton down in the morning light and honeybees flitted back and for... - #2
Brian Moore's 'Lies of Silence' is a gripping thriller set in Belfast during The Troubles, focusing on the moral dilemmas faced by hotel manager Michael Dillon when he is coerced by IRA terrorists to carry out a bombing or risk his wife's life. The novel explores themes of personal loyalty, public versus private loyalties, and the harsh realities of living in a conflicted society, all while maintaining a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers on edge.
In a century marked by horrifying events, 'Lies of Silence' delves into the complexities of human choices when faced with extreme circumstances. The book challenges readers to consider the moral implications of decisions made under pressure and examines the impact of political conflict on personal relationships, all within a gripping and thought-provoking narrative.
At a quarter to nine, just before going off work, Dillon went down to reception to check the staff roster for tomorrow. Two of the six women who came in to make breakfasts were reporting sick, so room... - #3
Fair Blows the Wind is a historical fiction novel by Louis L'Amour that follows the life of Captain Tatton Chantry, an Irish noble forced to flee his home after his family is murdered. The book jumps back and forth between Chantry's childhood and later life, set in the late 16th century Europe and the New World. The writing style includes a mix of historical accuracy, intriguing characters, and a focus on personal empowerment and survival through gaining knowledge and emotional connections with different cultures.
My two companions are dead, and those who came to this shore with us have fled, believing me already killed. Their boat bobs upon a gray sea flecked with the white of foam and soon they shall be along... - #4
'The Unveiling' by Tamara Leigh is a historical novel set in 12th century England, exploring themes of faith, vengeance, forgiveness, loyalty, and love. The story follows the protagonist Annyn, who disguises herself as a man to seek revenge, leading to a complex plot involving knights, medieval politics, and a slow-building romantic relationship with Wulfrith. The book delves into the social and political climate of the time, offering a glimpse into the lives of knights and ladies, all while maintaining a balance between historical accuracy and engaging storytelling.
- #5
The Fall of Kings by Ellen Kushner is the chronologically last novel set in the Riverside series. The story follows Theron Campion, the heir to the house of Tremontaine, who becomes entangled with Basil St. Cloud, a young magister with controversial views on the ancient kings and wizards. As unrest grows in the North and calls for the return of the kings escalate, Theron and Basil find themselves at the center of a larger, unforeseen conflict. The book is known for its richly developed characters, compelling world-building, and political fantasy elements, diverging from the previous books in the series by taking a more mythic and tragic tone.
FIVE HUNDRED YEARS AGO AND MORE, A KING RODE out of the North at the head of an army. He rode with a company of splendid men, all armed to the teeth. They rode not to war, but to a wedding. After cent...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Riverside ) - #6
Evan Tanner is a globe-trotting adventurer, part-time thief, and part-time spy who never sleeps due to a war wound that wiped out the sleep center in his brain. The story follows Tanner as he joins subversive political groups with hopeless causes, such as the IRA in Ireland and anti-Franco anarchists in Spain. The book explores the complexities of Yugoslavian ethnic groups and historical tensions between Turkey, Armenia, and Greece. Tanner's unique character, a mix of spy, adventurer, revolutionary, and con man, keeps the reader engrossed until the end. Lawrence Block's writing style infuses dry, witty geopolitical insights and humor, making the book a joy to read.
The Turks have dreary jails. Or is that conjecture? The plural might be inaccurate, for all I truly knew, there might be but one jail in all of Turkey. Or there could be others, but they need not be d... - #7
'The Phantom Menace' in the Star Wars novelizations series by Terry Brooks delves deeper into the characters and emotions not fully explored in the movie. It provides further insight into characters like Maul, Jar Jar, Anakin, and Padme, allowing readers to connect with them on a more personal level. The writing style enhances the story by adding depth to the characters and socio-political conflicts central to the plot, making it a more enriching experience compared to the film.
The suns burned down out of a cloudless blue sky, washing the vast desert wastes of the planet in brilliant white light. The resultant glare rose off the flat, sandy surface in a wet shimmer of bliste... - #8
'The Walrus And The Warwolf' by Hugh Cook is a high fantasy novel that follows the adventures of the protagonist Drake Dreldragon Douay. The story starts with Drake as a young apprentice who gets involved with pirates and embarks on sea voyages that lead to a world-spanning adventure. The plot is filled with grand-scale war, political conflicts, and fantastical elements like ancient wars, extinct gods, oppressive armies, and even a worm that stops you from getting drunk. The writing style is described as old school boys' own adventure, with a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers engaged in the action-packed storyline.
The book is praised for its well-developed characters, particularly the likable protagonist Drake and the supporting character Jon Arabin. Readers appreciate the realistic motives behind each character's actions, making them relatable and engaging. The plot is described as twisting and turning through an all-encompassing saga, blending elements of fantasy, adventure, and romance seamlessly. Despite its length, the book is said to flow easily, with a good sense of humor and an enjoyable plot that captivates readers from the first page.
Steel: iron alloyed with carbon. Made on Stokos by baking iron with charcoal in a sealed pot kept at red heat for eight days, then melting the 'blister steel' thus produced in covered crucibles, skimm... - #9
The Misted Cliffs by Catherine Asaro is the second book in the 'Lost Continent' series set in the world of Aronsdale. The story follows Princess Melody Dawnfield, who faces a difficult choice between marrying Cobalt, the heir to Misted Cliffs, to prevent war or seeing her kingdom overrun. The book delves into themes of power, love, and the consequences of difficult decisions in a medieval world. As the characters navigate political conflicts and magical elements, the plot unfolds with a mix of grey morality and realistic choices, creating a solid and readable fantasy story.
Cobalt the Dark, the only son of Varqelle Escar, stood on a ridge and looked out across the Barrens. In the distance, the blurred towers of a half-hidden fortress made black silhouettes against the da... - #10
'Firelord' by Parke Godwin is a reimagining of the Arthurian legend with a gritty and realistic portrayal of the characters and setting. The book delves into the complexities of the relationships between King Arthur, Guenevere, Lancelot, and other key figures, offering a fresh perspective on the well-known tale. Godwin's writing style is praised for its evocative prose, historical accuracy, and ability to bring the characters to life in a way that feels authentic and relatable.