Books matching: sacrifice and moral ambiguity
27 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Pure Ecstasy' in the series 'Pure/ Dark Ones' by Aja James delves into the complex relationship between Jade Cicada, the Queen of the Dark Ones, and Seth, the Pure One's negotiator. The story explores their emotional involvement, past traumas, and sacrifices made for love and power. Through character-driven storytelling, the author portrays Jade as a multifaceted character, displaying traits of selfishness, possessiveness, sweetness, and naivety, all stemming from a guarded past. Seth is depicted as protective, loving, and sacrificial, recognizing Jade's actions as a result of pain rather than true evil. The narrative skillfully navigates themes of power, dominance, good versus evil, and the complexity of human emotions within a fantasy world filled with supernatural beings and intricate relationships.
He was amused because “Monk” implied that he denied himself pleasure, didn’t have lascivious thoughts and desires, so devoted was he to his long-dead human wife. The title connoted prudishness and str...
(Also, see 6 recommendations for the series Pure/ Dark Ones ) - #2
Save:'A Reaper at the Gates' delves into the lives of the three main characters, Helene Blood Shrike, Laia, and Elias Soul Catcher, as they navigate through a world that is a mix of Roman empire and magical fantasy. The story follows their individual journeys as they face challenges and make sacrifices in their respective roles to save the empire, protect their loved ones, and confront powerful enemies. The plot is filled with twists, fast-paced action, high stakes, and cliffhanger endings, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
Readers praised the book for its strong focus on female strength empowerment, social justice themes, intricate world-building, and engaging storytelling. The character development, especially of Helene, was highlighted as a standout aspect, along with the complex relationships and dynamics among the main characters. The blend of military drama, fey magic, romance, and political intrigue was appreciated for creating a compelling narrative that captivated readers from start to finish.
The Star hangs from the wall of the cavern far from human eyes. It is a four-pointed diamond, with a narrow gap at its apex. Thin striations spiderweb across it, a reminder of the day the Scholars sha...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series An Ember in the Ashes ) 'The City on the Edge of Forever: The Original Teleplay' by Harlan Ellison delves into the behind-the-scenes drama and controversy surrounding the creation of the popular Star Trek episode. Ellison's original script is highlighted, showcasing his unique writing style and storytelling abilities. also includes commentary from various individuals involved in the making of Star Trek, shedding light on the intricate process of script development and production.
Oh, really? Then let’s forget about writing a true introductory essay to this book. Let’s give a pass to setting the record straight. Let’s just shrug and say, ah, what the hell, it’s been more than t...- #4
Save:'The Other Side of Night' by Adam Hamdy is a unique blend of genres, starting as a crime thriller with elements of mystery and investigation. The story unfolds through various perspectives, including court transcripts, letters, poems, and emails, keeping the reader engaged in uncovering the truth behind a supposed crime. As the plot progresses, unexpected twists lead the narrative into the realm of sci-fi, exploring themes of time travel and profound questions about love, sacrifice, and the meaning of life. The central point of the book revolves around the concept of love and the lengths individuals are willing to go for it, all while challenging conventional notions of reality and memory.
delves into the lives of complex characters like Harri, who is on a journey of self-discovery after being kicked out of the police force, and Ben and Elliott, whose mysterious disappearances prompt a series of events that intertwine love, loss, and the search for answers. With a narrative that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, 'The Other Side of Night' presents a captivating exploration of human relationships, the impact of choices made out of love or selfishness, and the blurred lines between perception and reality.
- #5
Save:'Elfhunter' in the series 'Tales of Alterra, The World That Is' by C.S. Marks follows the companions Gaelen, Nelwyn, Orogond, Galador, Fima, Estle, Hallagond, and Azori as they embark on a mission to protect the precious Stone of Leir from falling into the wrong hands. Along the way, they face challenges, battles, and sacrifices, all while dealing with the looming threat of Gorgon. The plot unfolds with an unshakeable sense of dread, leading to an epic climax that leaves readers breathless. The characters continue to grow, and the story comes full circle with all plots revealed, showcasing a world created by Marks that captivates readers' interest and compels them to keep turning the pages until the grand finale.
- #6
Save:'The Agamemnon' by Aeschylus is part of the Oresteia trilogy, focusing on the tragic story of Agamemnon's homecoming from the Trojan Wars and the revenge plotted by his wife, Clytemnestra. The play delves into themes of betrayal, revenge, and justice, set in the city of Argos after the Trojan War. A complex historical context intertwines past events, leading to a dramatic narrative with characters like Clytemnestra, Agamemnon, and Cassandra playing pivotal roles. The writing style of the book is described as poetic and dramatic, with language that evokes biblical tones and deep philosophical reflections.
- #7
Save:"The Volunteer: The True Story of the Resistance Hero who Infiltrated Auschwitz" by Jack Fairweather tells the remarkable true story of Witold Pilecki, a member of the Polish underground who volunteered to be imprisoned in Auschwitz to gather intelligence and organize resistance against the Nazis. Pilecki's harrowing experiences inside the camp, his efforts to alert the Allies about the atrocities of Auschwitz, and his subsequent fight against both the Germans and the Soviets are detailed in a gripping and well-researched narrative. Fairweather's writing style is described as powerful, captivating, and able to humanize the story through the use of photographs and detailed accounts of Pilecki's bravery and sacrifices.
As a young man he’d wanted to be an artist and had studied painting at university in the city of Wilno, only to abandon his schooling in the tumultuous years after World War I. Poland declared indepen... - #8
Save:In "Bitter Seeds," author Ian Tregillis presents an alternate history of World War II where the Nazis create superhumans through torturous means, while the British employ warlocks to harness dark powers. The story unfolds like a WWII spy novel, with both sides resorting to morally questionable acts justified by the needs of war. The narrative is dark, engaging, and suspenseful, with a focus on broken characters navigating a bleak and twisted version of history.
The book delves into themes of sacrifice, desperation, and the blurred lines between good and evil during wartime. Tregillis skillfully weaves together elements of magic, sci-fi, and historical fiction to create a haunting tale set against the backdrop of one of the darkest periods in European history.
Murder on the wind: crows and ravens wheeled beneath a heavy sky, like spots of ink splashed across a leaden canvas. They soared over leafless forests, crumbling villages, abandoned fields of barleyco... - #9
Save:"Priest" in the series "Ratcatchers" by Matthew Colville is a gritty and realistic fantasy novel that delves into the grey area between virtuous certainty and judgment. The story follows the main character, Heden, who is burdened with emotional turmoil and embarks on a journey filled with unanswered questions and mysteries. The writing style is described as fast-paced noir with heartfelt characters and interactions, excellent world-building, and a gut-wrenching ending that leaves readers satisfied yet craving more.
- #10
Save:Edgewise by Graham Masterton is a horror novel that follows Lily Blake, a real estate broker and single mother, whose life is shattered when her children are kidnapped and she is left for dead. Unable to rely on conventional methods to locate her children, Lily seeks the help of a Native American shaman, George Iron Walker, who summons the Wendigo, a terrifying spirit of the hunt. As Lily's desperate quest to find her children unfolds, she soon realizes that she has unleashed a malevolent force that threatens not only her family but also her own life. The novel is fast-paced, filled with supernatural elements, and explores themes of sacrifice, vengeance, and the blurred lines between the human and spirit world.
Lily was beginning to slide into a deep sleep when she heard a muffled clicking noise, somewhere downstairs, like a door opening. Then a stumbling sound, as if somebody had accidentally walked into a ...
