Books matching: politically charged environment
82 result(s)
- #1
Provenance by Ann Leckie is a space opera set in the same universe as the author's previous trilogy but with a different focus. The story follows Ingray Aughskold as she navigates dynastic politics, alien encounters, and cultural clashes while questioning the authenticity of her culture's historical facts. Through a mix of political intrigue, heists, and family drama, Ingray undergoes a journey of self-discovery and realization, all within the backdrop of a complex interstellar society.
The book delves into themes of political awakening, gender diversity, family dynamics, and cultural identity, all woven together in a twisty political thriller. Leckie's writing style combines elements of adventure, mystery, and comedy of manners, offering readers a unique and engaging exploration of a richly imagined universe filled with intricate world-building and thought-provoking narratives.
Or apparently so, anyway. Ingray knew that if she reached much more than a meter past her knees, she would touch smooth, solid wall. The same to her left, where apparently the Facilitator sat, bony fr... - #2
The Great Zoo of China by Matthew Reilly is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller that takes readers on a roller coaster ride through a zoo filled with dragons in China. The plot revolves around the unveiling of the zoo to VIPs and journalists, which quickly turns into a fight for survival as the intelligent and deadly dragons break free. The writing style is described as unrelenting in its action and excitement, resembling a mix of Jurassic Park and a high-octane adventure movie, with vivid descriptions and visual storytelling keeping readers engaged from start to finish.
The plane was a Bombardier Global 8000, the most expensive private aircraft in the world, the jet of choice for Saudi princes and Russian billionaires. This Bombardier, however, did not belong to any ... - #3
'The State of Us' by Shaun David Hutchinson follows the story of Andre Dre Rosario, the son of the first Mexican American presidential candidate, and Dean Arnault, the son of a conservative Republican woman running against Dre's father. Forced to spend time together, the boys form an unlikely friendship based on words and ideas shared through a secure app. As their parents' presidential aspirations weigh heavily on them during their senior year of high school, Dre and Dean navigate the complexities of their developing relationship amidst the political spotlight. The plot includes elements of personal drama, political conflict, and teenage angst, all skillfully woven together through the dual perspectives of the two protagonists.
Hutchinson's writing style captures the essence of teen angst with humor and depth, drawing readers into a narrative that explores themes of identity, love, and political ambition. delves into the challenges faced by Dre and Dean as they navigate the expectations placed on them by their parents' political careers, while also highlighting the universal struggles of adolescence and the search for connection in unlikely circumstances.
Nice socks? Smooth is not a word anyone anywhere would ever use to describe me. In fact, in the dictionary, under a picture of me, Andre Rosario, would be a list of words that are the opposite of smoo... - #4
'Above All, Honor' by Radclyffe follows the story of Secret Service Agent Cameron Roberts and the President's daughter, Blair Powell. The characters are beautifully described, with Blair portrayed as a rebellious and assertive young woman who challenges rules and authority, while Cameron is depicted as dedicated, strong, and focused on keeping Blair safe. The plot revolves around the growing attraction and respect between the two women, despite their contrasting personalities and approach to life. The writing style captures the roller coaster of emotions, secrets, and demons each character faces, creating a captivating and engaging story that keeps readers interested and invested throughout.
- #5
'A Gathering of Shadows' in the 'Shades of Magic' series by V.E. Schwab is a captivating sequel that delves deeper into the intricacies of the characters and the magical world they inhabit. The book follows Kell and Lila as they navigate new challenges and relationships, set against the backdrop of a magical competition that brings tension and excitement. Schwab's detailed writing style vividly brings to life the expanding world of different Londons, with readers getting to know the characters better as they uncover secrets and face unforeseeable threats.
She’d always thought it was better than letting trouble find her, but floating in the ocean in a two-person skiff with no oars, no view of land, and no real resources save the ropes binding her wrists...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Shades of Magic ) - #6
"The Betrayal" in the series "Cyteen" by C.J. Cherryh delves into a world where the Union and Resune are portrayed as more human than previously thought, showcasing a different way of survival in the stars. The narrative explores themes of social power, conflict, responsibility, and the struggle between personal needs and the common good. The story follows the aftermath of the assassination of a scientist involved in eugenics, the creation of a clone, and the complex relationships and struggles faced by the characters in a world where artificial humans are created to serve specific purposes.
NOTE: 11/12/01 - This is the the first book in the Cyteen paperback series. It is NOT the complete novel as released in hardcover/trade. I am doing the books one at a time and will also release them a... - #7
'Eidolon' by Grace Draven is the second book in the 'Wraith Kings' series, continuing the story of Brishen, Ildiko, and the Kai and humans involved in their lives as they face dark, sinister monsters unleashed by the deceased Kai queen. The book focuses on the love story between Brishen and Ildiko, the political intrigue, magic, fantasy, loyalty, sacrifice, friendship, and honor in the world of the Kai. The plot involves a dire threat of demons released by the former queen, testing the love and marriage of Brishen and Ildiko while they must unite with others to save their world.
The writing style in 'Eidolon' is described as powerful, with captivating imagery and descriptions that keep readers turning the pages. Grace Draven is praised for her talent as a writer, creating a well-developed tale with a mix of romance, action, intrigue, and fantasy. The book is commended for its continuation of the story from the first book, 'Radiance,' and for its exploration of different perspectives while maintaining the humor, sarcasm, and romance that made the first book enjoyable.
Ildiko clenched her fists and cracked herknuckles within the folds of her gown as she viewed the kitchen’smain worktable. Saggara’s head cook had laid out a sampling of eachdish to be served at the ba...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Wraith Kings ) - #8
"Shadowborn" follows the story of Catwin, a simple peasant girl who is forced to become the shadow to Lady Miriel Devere, the niece of a powerful Duke. Catwin must sacrifice her freedom and anonymity to serve as a spy and protector, navigating a world filled with court intrigue, political schemes, and dangerous secrets. As the two girls form an unlikely alliance, their relationship evolves from one of animosity to trust, shaping the destiny of a kingdom on the brink of change. Moira Katson's writing style is praised for its formalized and antiquated structure, perfectly complementing the medieval setting and the intricate plot filled with foreboding and drama.
I was an ice child, having the ill luck to be born early, in the deepest storms of the winter, when the drifts of snow can bury whole caravans without a trace, and the winds will cut a man open with s... - #9
In "Domes of Fire," the sequel to the Elenium trilogy, our hero Sparhawk embarks on a new quest to save the world with his familiar purposeful, humorous, and ironic demeanor. The book is set six years after the first series, allowing for some changes and new quirks in the characters. The story revolves around Sparhawk and his friends facing challenges in a new continent, showcasing Eddings' entertaining writing style and the strong interactions between characters.
It was early spring, and the rain still had the lingering chill of winter. A soft, silvery drizzle sifted down out of the night sky and wreathed around the blocky watchtowers of Cimmura, hissing in th... - #10
The Skull Mantra by Eliot Pattison is a beautifully written, complex novel about a Chinese prisoner Inspector Shan Tao Yun in a Tibetan rehabilitation camp. Shan was an investigator who angered the wrong party members and was sent to the camp for rehabilitation. When a dead body is found at the work camp, Shan investigates the murder, navigating through the politically charged environment of occupied Tibet. The plot is complicated, weaving, and a bit mystical, reflecting the author's detailed descriptions of Tibet, its culture, and its people. Shan, a former detective, is now balancing himself between two worlds while trying to understand the cultural clash between Tibetans and Chinese officials.
They called it taking four. The tall, gaunt monk hovered at the lip of the five-hundred-foot cliff, nothing restraining him but the raw Himalayan wind. Shan Tao Yun squinted at the figure to see bette...