Books matching: reluctant hero
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- #1
The Coward by Stephen Aryan follows the journey of Kell Kressia, a living legend and the only survivor of a quest to slay the Ice Lich ten years ago. Now, Kell is being called upon to return to the Frozen North to defeat a new threat. The book explores themes of coming of age, lost innocence, survivor's guilt, trauma, and the power of a good story. The plot unfolds like a DnD adventure, with encounters that forge the characters into a found family unit, and the writing style is engaging yet straightforward, putting the reader right in the middle of the story.
The story delves into the truth of what being a hero really means, the exploration of inner fears and the ability to unlock one's inner hero when faced with adversity. Through Kell's characterization, readers witness a reluctant hero battling his own inner demons while forming bonds with a ragtag group in a fight for survival against both men and beasts. The multiple points of view provide insight into the political and social aspects of the Five Kingdoms, setting the stage for a deeper exploration in the sequel.
Kell Kressia, slayer of the Ice Lich and saviour of the Five Kingdoms, tripped on a rake and fell into a pile of horse shit. With a vicious curse he scrambled to his feet, trying to brush the moist st... - #2
Cassiel's Servant in the series Phedre's Trilogy by author Jacqueline Carey is a retelling of the original story from a different perspective, focusing on the character of Joscelin, a Cassiline priest. The narrative delves into Joscelin's background, his training with the Cassiline Brotherhood, and his relationship with Phedre. The writing style is described as exquisite, with a mix of dark beauty and pageantry, exploring themes of love, loss, and destiny. Readers appreciate the subtle differences in dialogue and perspective that add depth to the original story while staying true to the established world of Terre d'Ange.
The book is praised for providing a fresh perspective on the familiar tale, offering insights into Joscelin's character and motivations. It is noted for its faithfulness to the original story while adding new layers of complexity and emotion through the eyes of a different protagonist. The relationship dynamics between the characters, particularly the evolving connection between Joscelin and Phedre, are highlighted as a key aspect of the narrative.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Phedre's Trilogy ) - #3
Gods of the Wyrdwood by R.J. Barker is a fantasy novel that introduces readers to a world where everything, including weapons and armor, is made out of wood. The story follows Cahan, a character who was called as a child to accept a symbiote and save the world, but his life takes a different turn when another rises in his place. Despite being cast aside and hunted, Cahan finds himself unable to escape the world's demands as he navigates a setting filled with unique creatures and plants, reminiscent of a world like PRINCESS MONONOKE. The book is praised for its immersive world-building, complex characters, and the way it slowly draws readers in with its rich and detailed setting.
- #4
'The Postman' by David Brin is a post-apocalyptic novel set in the northwest United States after a devastating war. The story follows Gordon Krantz, who stumbles upon a USPS uniform and uses it to impersonate a postman, inadvertently bringing hope and order to the isolated communities in the region. As Gordon's lie about a restored government snowballs into something meaningful, he becomes a reluctant hero, navigating through survivalists, a supercomputer-run society, and genetically enhanced villains. The book explores themes of rebuilding civilization, the power of communication, and the consequences of deception in a world struggling to find meaning and order.
The narrative is a mix of hope, darkness, and complex characters, offering a thought-provoking exploration of humanity's resilience in the face of chaos. Through Gordon's journey, the book delves into themes of survival, responsibility, and the importance of storytelling in shaping the future. Brin's writing style combines world-building with emotional depth, creating a riveting tale that challenges readers to consider the choices they would make in a post-apocalyptic world.
In dust and blood-with the sharp tang of terror stark in his nostrils-a man’s mind will sometimes pull forth odd relevancies. After half a lifetime in the wilderness, most of it spent struggling to su... - #5
Minor Mage by T. Kingfisher is a delightful novella that follows the journey of Oliver, a 12-year-old mage with only three spells, including one that treats his allergies. When his village is suffering from a drought, he is sent on a mission to the mountains to bring back rain. Along the way, Oliver encounters monsters, human adversaries, and forms unlikely friendships, including with his snarky armadillo familiar. The story is a blend of subtle humor, dark themes, and elements reminiscent of classic fairy tales, making it an engaging and heartwarming read for both children and adults.
The writing style in Minor Mage is clever, sweet, and engagingly written, with a tone that balances humor and darkness. The story explores themes of courage, friendship, and the challenges of doing the right thing in the face of adversity. Through Oliver's journey, readers are immersed in a world filled with magic, creatures, and a compelling narrative that keeps them hooked till the end.
They stood on the edge of the town: the boy, the armadillo, and the crowd. No one was moving. If an artist had painted the scene, it would have been Still Life with Armadillo, or perhaps Mob Scene, In... - #6
In Fate of the Fallen by Kel Kade, readers are taken on a journey where the chosen one trope is turned upside down. The story follows Aaslo, a forester who unexpectedly finds himself thrust into the role of fulfilling a prophecy meant for his deceased best friend, Mathias. With a diverse cast of characters, including gods, reapers, and petty thieves, the book weaves a tale of sorcery, prophecies, and the unexpected twists and turns that come with fulfilling a destiny that was never meant for you. Kel Kade's writing style blends action, humor, and intricate world-building to create a fantasy novel that surprises and captivates readers from the very beginning.
Wind surged through the trees, rustling their green and gold leaves and nearly whipping the dirty rag from Mathias’s fingers as he held it out for Aaslo. “Why won’t you go with Elanee to the dance? Sh... - #7Lord Foul's BaneBook 1 in the series:The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever
'Lord Foul's Bane' by Stephen R. Donaldson follows the story of Thomas Covenant, a leper from Earth, who is transported to a magical Land where he must become a hero despite his disbelief in the reality of this new world. The plot is complex and the characters are deep and multifaceted, with Thomas Covenant being portrayed as the ultimate anti-hero. The book delves into themes of redemption, self-discovery, and the struggle between good and evil in a Tolkien-scale fantasy setting.
The writing style of Stephen R. Donaldson in 'Lord Foul's Bane' has been described as masterful, with rich world-building and detailed descriptions that immerse the reader in the fantastical Land. The protagonist's struggles with his own flaws and inner demons are portrayed authentically, making the story compelling and believable despite its fantastical elements.
SHE came out of the store just in time to see her young son playing on the sidewalk directly in the path of the grey, gaunt man who strode down the centre of the walk like a mechanical derelict. For a... - #8
'Prince of Fools' by Mark Lawrence is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Jalan, a prince who is forced into a heroic adventure alongside Snorri, a heroic barbarian. The book is praised for its witty dialogues, great prose, and unexpected twists in the plot. Readers appreciated the well-defined characters, such as Snorri, and the growth of Jalan throughout the story. The book is set in a post-apocalyptic world and features undead creatures, necromancers, and other fantastical elements.
I’ve always found hitting a man from behind to be the best way to go about things. This can sometimes be accomplished by dint of a simple ruse. Classics such as, “What’s that over there?” work surpris... - #9
The Accidental Apprentice in the Wilderlore series by Amanda Foody tells the story of Barclay Thorne, an orphan living in Dullshire who accidentally bonds with a Beast, leading to a new life filled with magic and adventure. As Barclay navigates this new world of Lore and Lore Keepers, he faces dangers while contemplating if he even wants to return to his old life. The book combines magical beasts, a new world to explore, and a reluctant hero, reminiscent of How to Train Your Dragon and the Pokémon franchise, making it a captivating read for both children and adults.
The inclusion of Beasts in the lives of Lore Keepers feels organic and lively, sparking nostalgia for Pokémon fans and creating a desire for a full Beast glossary in future Wilderlore books. The story follows Barclay and his friend Viola Dumont as they face bullies, Beasts, and a looming danger that threatens the balance of the Woods, showcasing themes of friendship, adventure, and bravery.
He knew the poisonous ones never grew on trees. He knew the red ones with white spots made warts bubble up between toes, but the white ones with red spots cured warts, welts, and pustules of all kinds... - #10
'A Borrowed Scot' in 'The Tulloch Sgathan Trilogy' by Karen Ranney tells the story of Montgomery Fairfax, a newly titled Lord Fairfax who finds himself unexpectedly married to Veronica Macleod, a woman of British nobility. The plot revolves around Montgomery's honorable nature as he steps up to marry Veronica to save her from social ruin, despite his initial reluctance. As their relationship progresses, we see a blend of physical attraction, passion, and eventually deeper feelings of tenderness and love. The writing style is eloquent and emotional, with a focus on character growth, personal demons, and healing old wounds, set against the backdrop of Scotland and a marriage of convenience.