Books matching: rural desperation
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- #1
Save:'The Old Curiosity Shop' by Charles Dickens follows the story of Little Nell and her grandfather as they are driven from their home by the evil Quilp. The duo embarks on a journey across England, facing hardships and encountering various characters along the way. The novel delves into themes of poverty, innocence, and the contrast between good and evil, all portrayed through Dickens' signature blend of humor and pathos.
Night is generally my time for walking. In the summer I often leave home early in the morning, and roam about fields and lanes all day, or even escape for days or weeks together; but, saving in the co... - #2
Save:Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard is a collection of meditations on nature, spirituality, and the human experience. The book takes readers on a journey through the author's observations and reflections on the beauty and brutality of the natural world around Tinker Creek in Virginia. Dillard's writing style is described as poetic, introspective, and deeply insightful, as she delves into themes of wonder, awe, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
The book is a blend of personal narrative, philosophical musings, and detailed observations of the flora and fauna in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Dillard's prose is praised for its vivid imagery, lyrical quality, and ability to evoke a sense of reverence for the mysteries of the universe. Through her contemplations on nature, she invites readers to see the world through her eyes and find meaning in the intricate tapestry of life on Earth.
I used to have a cat, an old fighting tom, who would jump through the open window by my bed in the middle of the night and land on my chest. I’d half-awaken. He’d stick his skull under my nose and pur... - #3
Save:In the Ozarks, the novel "Tomato Red" by Daniel Woodrell follows the lives of Sammy Barlach, a meth head drifter, and siblings Jamalee and Jason Merridew who are looking to escape their life in Venus Holler, a low-life part of town. The story is a country noir with a small murder mystery plot, rich setting, and believable characters. Woodrell's writing style captures the melancholy and desperation of the characters as they navigate poverty, hopelessness, and the desire for a better life.
“Woodrell’s storytelling is as melodic, jangly, and energetic as a good banjo riff . . . If one is tempted to hear the echoes of William Faulkner, or Erskine Caldwell . . . no matter. Mr. Woodrell isn... 'Night of the Living Dead' by John Russo, Christopher Andrews, George A. Romero is a groundbreaking piece of fiction that draws inspiration from 'I am Legend' and explores themes such as the fear of the unknown, political commentary, and societal issues. The book introduces readers to a world where a zombie apocalypse unfolds, creating a sense of hopelessness and highlighting the human drama amidst chaos. With a unique storytelling style that blends horror and social commentary, the book delves into the Cold War Vietnam era conformity and the fear of immigrants, offering a gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The narrative of 'Night of the Living Dead' is characterized by its eerie and tense atmosphere, where nobody survives, setting it apart from other popular zombie stories. The book's influence on the zombie genre is undeniable, as it serves as a cornerstone for modern zombie tales, including Romero's iconic films. Through a series of short stories and vivid character perspectives, the book captures the essence of fear and survival in a post-apocalyptic world, leaving a lasting impact on readers with its gritty and thought-provoking themes.
Barbra jerked, her head snapping upright with painful rigidity. Her neck burned in protest, and she bit down on a gasp the barest instant before it escaped her lips. If Johnny realized that she had fa...- #5
Save:Deal with the Devil by Evangeline Anderson is a paranormal romance novel that follows Luz Velez, a non-shifting werewolf who suffers from panic attacks and struggles to pass the bar exam. When wealthy vampire Jude Jacobson offers Luz a deal to help her overcome her anxiety disorder, a forbidden romance blossoms between the two species. The book is described as a fast-paced, suspenseful, and steamy read with elements of danger, drama, and angst. The narrative is beautifully written from Luz's perspective, showcasing well-executed dialogue and a mesmerizing interaction between the two protagonists.
Not that it does me any good since I can’t change atthe full moon. Or any other time for that matter. Non-shifters, asthe rest of the were population calls the rare were who can’tsummon forth his or h... - #6
Save:American Salvage by Bonnie Jo Campbell is a collection of interconnected short stories that provide stark snapshots of rural Michigan, focusing on the lives of working-class individuals struggling with poverty, addiction, and abuse. The stories depict characters who are desperate, damaged, and living on the fringes of society, yet each tale also offers a glimmer of hope or resilience amidst the dark themes. Campbell's writing style is raw, emotional, and unflinching, portraying the harsh realities of life in small-town America with vivid detail and compassion.
- #7
Save:Crimes in Southern Indiana by Frank Bill is a collection of dark and violent short stories set in the backwoods country of Southern Indiana. The tales revolve around rednecks involved in meth cooking, army veterans struggling with PTSD, and characters engaged in various criminal activities like murder, rape, and drug dealing. The stories are interconnected, featuring unlikable and despicable characters, painting a raw and unflinching picture of the dark side of life in a remote, rural county. The writing style is described as powerful, with a detached narrative that presents a cold and brutal reflection of a small portion of Indiana, creating a sense of place that is palpable and evocative.
Pitchfork and Darnel burst through the scuffed motel door like two barrels of buckshot. Using the daisy-patterned bed to divide the dealers from the buyers, Pitchfork buried a .45-caliber Colt in Karl... - #8
Save:"Rogue Male" by Geoffrey Household follows the story of an Englishman who attempts to assassinate a dictator but is caught, tortured, and manages to escape. Back in England, he must evade his pursuers while stripping away his status and civilization to survive. The narrative unfolds as a classic tale of survival against the odds, filled with action-packed sequences and a slow, highly detailed pace that leads to a psychological study of the protagonist's self-discovery.
I cannot blame them. After all, one doesn’t need a telescopic sight to shoot boar and bear; so that when they came on me watching the terrace at a range of five hundred and fifty yards, it was natural... - #9
Save:'With Teeth' by Brian Keene is a novella that takes a unique spin on vampire lore, presenting the creatures in a gritty and brutal light. The story follows a group of friends in West Virginia who venture into the woods with plans to start a meth lab, only to stumble upon a horrifying discovery that changes their lives forever. Keene's writing style is described as engaging and compelling, with a focus on character development and creating a tense atmosphere that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
- #10
Save:Ten Years by Pernille Hughes is a deeply emotional and engaging novel that focuses on the complicated relationship between Charlie and Becca. Their romance develops slowly, with their years of animosity and struggles forming a significant part of the narrative. The book explores themes of grief and personal growth as the characters navigate their lives, filled with hardships that resonate deeply with readers. Throughout the story, the witty banter and palpable tension keep readers invested until their eventual connection is finally realized.
The writing style is both straightforward and poignant, making it easy to connect with the characters. Many readers appreciate the realistic portrayal of Charlie and Becca's flawed personalities and their slow-burn love story. The humor interwoven with heartfelt moments adds depth to the narrative. Despite a few criticisms, particularly regarding pacing and certain repeated phrases, Ten Years stands out as a compelling and enjoyable read, perfect for those who seek a heartfelt romantic journey.
