Books matching: shakespearean
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- #1
Save:If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio is a dark and suspenseful novel set in an eccentric conservatory college where seven fourth-year acting students are deeply immersed in Shakespearean theater. The story unfolds through the memories of Oliver, who has just been released from prison after serving a ten-year sentence for a crime that is gradually revealed. The book delves into the relationships, secrets, and tragedies that unfold among the students, all while incorporating Shakespearean quotes and themes throughout the narrative. The writing style is described as captivating, emotionally arresting, and filled with tension, making the book a thrilling and engrossing read.
I sit with my wrists cuffed to the table and I think, But that I am forbid / To tell the secrets of my prison-house, / I could a tale unfold whose lightest word / Would harrow up thy soul. The guard s... - #2
Save:'The Tragedy of Arthur' by Arthur Phillips is a unique novel that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. The book presents itself as the publication of a newly discovered Shakespeare play, with the introduction written by the fictional Arthur Phillips himself. The plot delves into the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the protagonist Arthur's challenging connection with his father, a forger with a questionable past. Through a mix of literary criticism, humor, and Shakespearean elements, the book weaves a tale that keeps readers questioning the authenticity of the play and the characters' lives.
- #3
Save:Christopher Moore's 'Fool' is a comedic retelling of Shakespeare's King Lear from the perspective of the Fool, Pocket. The story follows Pocket as he navigates the treacherous court of King Lear, resorting to assassinations and starting wars to thwart the evil schemes of Lear's daughters. Moore's writing style in 'Fool' is characterized by its bawdy humor, irreverent tone, and liberal use of vulgarity, creating a unique and entertaining take on the classic tragedy.
The plot of 'Fool' is filled with witty dialogue, unique characters, and fantastical elements, all presented through Moore's trademark satirical lens. The novel blends Shakespearean themes with modern humor, offering a fresh and humorous perspective on the original play. Despite taking liberties with the plot, 'Fool' delivers a rollicking and entertaining story that keeps readers engaged with its absurdity and clever twists.
- #4
Save:William Shakespeare's The Phantom of Menace is a clever and entertaining retelling of Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace in Shakespearean prose. The author, Ian Doescher, skillfully weaves the iconic Star Wars characters and storyline into the style of William Shakespeare, creating a unique and enjoyable reading experience. Through Doescher's writing, characters like Jar Jar Binks are given new depth and complexities, adding a fresh perspective to the familiar tale of trade disputes, political intrigue, and lightsaber battles.
The book captures the essence of both Star Wars and Shakespeare, blending the two worlds seamlessly. Doescher's use of iambic pentameter and Shakespearean language not only pays homage to the Bard but also enhances the storytelling, making it accessible and engaging for readers of all ages. The Phantom of Menace is not just a retelling of a beloved film but a creative and witty exploration of themes such as loyalty, deception, and the power of rumor in a galaxy far, far away.
[aside:] I serve the drinks these Jedi to appease And in so doing serve my masters’ will. We droids are here to serve: ’tis protocol, Yet here my service lacketh etiquette, For it doth serve these Jed... - #5
Save:"Lady Gallant" by Suzanne Robinson is a historical romance set in the Tudor period during the reign of Mary Tudor, also known as Bloody Mary. The story follows the complex relationship between the heroine, Nora Beckett, and the hero, Christian de Rivers, Lord Monfort. Christian, a rake with a troubled past, marries Nora under false pretenses, believing she is a spy. As their tumultuous relationship unfolds, secrets are revealed, betrayals occur, and the characters navigate a society filled with intrigue, danger, and societal expectations. The writing style captures the essence of the time period, with well-drawn characters and a blend of drama, romance, and historical elements that keep readers engaged.
Nuns no longer went in fear of their lives, as they had in old King Harry's time, and one had broken her journey to her convent at the royal manor of Hatfield. Her shaking, mittened hand closed the do... - #6
Save:'A Midsummer Tempest' by Poul Anderson is a fantasy novel set in a universe where Shakespeare's plays are taken as literal truth. The story follows Prince Rupert of the Rhine as he navigates a world influenced by Shakespearean characters and themes, particularly during the English Civil War. The book incorporates elements of historical fantasy, parallel universes, and iambic pentameter dialogue, creating a unique and engaging narrative style that intertwines with the plot seamlessly. Through a blend of adventure, romance, and wordplay, Anderson crafts a tale that transports readers to a world where magic, technology, and spiritual conflicts collide.
The novel delves into themes of history, magic, and the clash between traditional beliefs and technological progress, all set against the backdrop of a fantastical version of 17th-century England. Anderson's intricate world-building, clever integration of Shakespearean elements, and engaging storytelling captivate readers as they follow Prince Rupert's journey from captivity to a larger-than-life adventure filled with faeries, political intrigue, and the timeless struggle between old ways and new ways. With a mix of whimsical fantasy and historical references, 'A Midsummer Tempest' offers a rich tapestry of storytelling that invites readers to explore a world where the lines between reality and fiction blur.
THROUGHOUT that sullen day, cannon had spoken from time to time between the confronting armies. otherwise there was no move of war. First Rupert waited for the Yorkshiremen; afterward he waited for mo...
(Also, see 92 recommendations for the series Holger Danske ) - #7
Save:In an alternate history where the Spanish Armada triumphs in 1588, 'Ruled Britannia' by Harry Turtledove explores a London under Spanish control. The story follows the struggles of England under the Spanish Inquisition, with a focus on William Shakespeare as a key figure in a plot to inspire a revolt against the Spanish occupiers. The book delves into the political intrigue of the time, showcasing the tensions between Shakespeare and a Spanish playwright, Lt. Lope de Vega, as they navigate loyalty to their respective monarchs while collaborating on a dangerous game of rebellion.
The narrative of 'Ruled Britannia' is filled with detailed portrayals of late 16th-century London under Spanish dominion, offering a realistic and grim depiction of life under occupation. The book cleverly incorporates Shakespearean quotes and themes, immersing readers in the world of Elizabethan theater amidst a backdrop of religious conflicts and power struggles. Through the eyes of Shakespeare and Lope de Vega, the story unfolds with a mix of historical accuracy and fictional intrigue, culminating in a tale of betrayal, loyalty, and the fight for freedom in a society rife with oppression and deception.
Two spanish soldiers swaggered up Tower Street toward William Shakespeare. Their boots squelched in the mud. One wore a rusty corselet with his high-crowned morion, the other a similar helmet with a j... - #8
Save:"Killer Dolphin" revolves around the ambitious playwright and producer Peregrine Jay, who dreams of restoring the derelict Dolphin Theatre, a Victorian gem damaged during World War II. The plot kicks off when Jay, while inspecting the theatre, falls into a hidden well and is rescued by a reclusive billionaire, Vassily Conducis. Conducis reveals a glove purportedly belonging to Shakespeare's son, Hamnet, which inspires Jay to write a play. As the theatre reopens with great promise, the narrative takes a dark turn when a murder occurs, prompting investigations led by Police Superintendent Alleyn amidst a backdrop of theatrical intrigue and a cast of temperamental actors.
Ngaio Marsh's writing style effectively combines elements of mystery with a theatrical setting, creating an engaging atmosphere that draws readers into the world of the theatre. The character development sometimes leans towards archetypes, yet Marsh’s descriptions of the theatre and its ambiance are vivid and immersive. The plot unfolds with a blend of humor and suspense, reflecting the chaotic life of the theatre while intertwining the mystery of the murder with the personal ambitions of the characters involved.
“If I might, I was,” Peregrine Jay mumbled, wondering why such conversations should always be conducted in the past tense. “I mean,” he added boldly, “I did and I still do. I want to view, if you plea...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Roderick Alleyn ) - #9
Save:Prince of Shadows by Rachel Caine is a clever retelling of the classic Shakespearean tale of Romeo and Juliet, narrated from the perspective of Benvolio, Romeo's cousin. The story delves into the world of the Montagues and Capulets, exploring the relationships between the characters and offering alternative reasons for the tragic events that unfold. The book introduces new dimensions to familiar characters like Mercutio and Rosaline, weaving in elements of twisted politics, heartbreak, and wry narration to create a dark and intriguing narrative.
The plot follows Benvolio's dual identity as the Prince of Shadows, a masked thief who rebels against his family's expectations, and his growing love for Rosaline Capulet. As the story unfolds, themes of love, tragedy, revenge, and redemption intertwine, leading to a reimagined ending that reconciles the feuding houses in a clever twist on Shakespeare's original tragedy.
In his bed, Tybalt Capulet snored and drooled like a toothless old woman. I marveled as I thought of how the women of Verona—from dewy-eyed maids to dignified ladies—fell swooning in his wake. If they... - #10
Save:In The Serpent of Venice by Christopher Moore, the story follows the irreverent antics of Pocket the jester as he navigates a mash-up of Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice and Othello. Moore creatively twists classic literature, incorporating elements from Poe's The Cask of Amontillado, resulting in a humorous and bawdy tale set in medieval Venice. The plot moves rapidly, filled with bawdy jokes, historical context, and clever reimaginings of Shakespearean characters, all narrated from Pocket's witty and sarcastic point of view.
The book is praised for its creative and entertaining approach to blending multiple Shakespearean narratives, engaging writing style, and the way Moore skillfully weaves together elements from different literary works to create a new and captivating story. Readers appreciate the humor, clever wordplay, and the delightful escapism provided by the absurd and hilarious adventures of Pocket and his friends in this historical and literary mash-up.
“Aye, he’ll be here,” said the soldier, a broad-shouldered, fit brute of forty, in leather and rough linen, full sword and fighting dagger at his belt, black bearded with a scar through his right brow...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Fool )
