Books matching: shifts in character focus
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- #1
'He Who Fights with Monsters 10' by Shirtaloon is a thrilling addition to the litRPG genre, known for its unique system and well-written characters. Readers praise the action-packed storyline, crazy powersets, and engaging banter among the characters. The plot unfolds with intriguing developments, character growth, and a mix of seriousness and comedy that keeps readers hooked. However, some readers express concerns about certain aspects of the book's execution, such as pacing, character development, and unresolved plot points.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series He Who Fights with Monsters ) - #2
In 'The Passage' by Justin Cronin, a dystopian future unfolds where vampire-like creatures control most of North America due to a failed experiment. The story spans over a hundred years, exploring the aftermath of the virus outbreak and the struggle for survival in a world devastated by these creatures. The narrative is filled with well-developed characters, compelling backstories, and a complex inner dialogue, all woven together through various storytelling techniques like first-person narratives, third-person perspectives, and journal entries.
The book captivates readers with its gripping plot, multi-layered storytelling, and unique take on the post-apocalyptic genre. It delves into themes of survival, hope, and the unknown future in a world where civilization has crumbled under the threat of vampire-like beings. With a mix of suspense, mystery, and elements of horror, 'The Passage' keeps readers on the edge of their seats, immersing them in a world where the line between humanity and monstrosity blurs.
The day Amy was born, her mother, Jeanette, was nineteen years old. Jeanette named her baby Amy for her own mother, who’d died when Jeanette was little, and gave her the middle name Harper for Harper ... - #3
Doctor Zhivago by Boris Pasternak is a sweeping novel set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution and World War I. The story follows the life and loves of Yuri Zhivago, a poet-physician caught in the turmoil of the era. Zhivago's journey takes him through the battle between the Whites and the Reds, intertwined with a tragic love story with the tender and beautiful Lara. The novel delves into the themes of love, loss, faith, and the impact of historical events on individual lives, all portrayed through vivid and atmospheric writing.
Yurii Andreievich Zhivago (as a child, called Yura; affectionately, Yurochka) is the son of Andrei Zhivago, a profligate, and Maria Nikolaievna Zhivago. Evgraf Andreievich Zhivago, his half-brother, i... - #4
Pearl of China is a fictionalized account of the friendship between Willow, a Chinese girl, and the famous author Pearl Buck. The story spans approximately 70 years, detailing the lives of the two women through historic events like the Boxer Rebellion, the rise of Communism, and the Cultural Revolution in China. The narrative is primarily from Willow's perspective, touching on how ordinary citizens survived challenging times, including Christians in the underground church. The book offers insight into the context in which Buck's great novel, The Good Earth, was created, and portrays Chinese life from a Chinese perspective, although some readers found the historical details a bit overwhelming at times.
The writing style of Pearl of China has been described as simple and spare, with a focus on depicting aspects of Pearl Buck's life through a Chinese rather than Western perspective. The author, Anchee Min, weaves the events and political climate of China into the story seamlessly, making it accessible even to readers unfamiliar with Buck's novels or modern Chinese history. The book delves into themes of friendship, love, loyalty, and the impact of historical events on individuals, providing a fascinating view of China during different political climates and offering a fresh perspective on Pearl Buck's life.
Before I was Willow, I was Weed. My grandmother, NaiNai, insisted that naming me Weed was better. She believed that the gods would have a hard time making my life go lower if I was already at the bott... - #5
'The Cookbook Collector' by Allegra Goodman is a novel set in 1999 amidst the pre dot.com bubble, following the lives of characters involved in industries like computer software, education, religion, antiquarian books, and environmental charities. The story delves into the temptations of greed and ambition, intertwining dramatic stock market fluctuations with a narrative of rich perspectives, contrasting motives, and themes of love and hope. Through a blend of fairytale elements and cynical realism, Goodman weaves a tale of family dynamics, personal struggles, and unexpected connections, creating a world that feels both historical and contemporary.
The novel introduces characters like Emily and Jess, two contrasting sisters who embody different personality types and life choices. Alongside other well-developed characters like Jonathan and George, the story explores themes of family roles, personal growth, and the complexities of relationships. Goodman's writing style combines elements of Austenesque wit, Dickensian character development, and magical fable-like qualities, providing a narrative that balances optimism with tragedy, love with loss, and humor with introspection.
- #6
The Betsy by Harold Robbins is a multi-generational story of the Ford family, loosely based on the automotive industry. The novel delves into family politics, intrigue, and the history of the auto industry, with a touch of romance and drama. The writing style of Harold Robbins is described as down-to-earth, with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book provides a first-person view of the drama, making it a captivating and consuming read for fans of Robbins' work.
- #7
"The Pillars of Creation" in the series "Sword of Truth" by Terry Goodkind follows the story of Jennsen, Richard's half-sister, who is on a quest to discover her true identity and take revenge for her mother's death. Set in the Midlands, the plot introduces new characters and delves into the struggles of those born ungifted, immune to magic, and hunted by Darken Rahl. The narrative style shifts focus from the main characters, Richard and Kahlan, presenting a fresh perspective on the ongoing war and the complexities of loyalty and deception.
Picking through the dead man’s pockets, Jennsen Daggett came across the last thing in the world she would ever have expected to find. Startled, she sat back on her heels. The raw breeze ruffled her ha...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Sword of Truth ) - #8
The Sea Wolf by Jack London is a thrilling sea adventure story that follows the journey of Humphrey Van Weyden, a gentleman who is rescued from a shipwreck and forced to join a crew of seal hunters aboard the ship Ghost, captained by the brutal and intelligent Wolf Larsen. The novel delves into themes of survival, morality, and the clash between intellect and brute force, all set against the backdrop of life at sea. The book is known for its vivid descriptions of nautical life and the complex relationship between the main characters as they navigate the challenges of the high seas.
Iscarcely know where to begin, though I sometimes facetiously place the cause of it all to Charley Furuseth’s credit. He kept a summer cottage in Mill Valley, under the shadow of Mount Tamalpais, and ... - #9
Million Dollar Demon by Kim Harrison is the 15th book in The Hollows series, featuring the protagonist Rachel Morgan, a witch demon. The book is filled with suspense, danger, humor, and rich backgrounds for the characters and storylines. Rachel faces challenges involving her magical abilities and relationships with other characters, including a new master vampire in Cincinnati. The plot includes past alliances coming into play, mistakes being made, and lessons being learned, making it an enjoyable and captivating read for fans of the series.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Hollows ) - #10
The Secret Agent by Joseph Conrad is a dark and cynical tale set in the politically charged atmosphere of 19th century London. The story follows Mr. Verloc, a Russian secret agent who orchestrates a bomb plot to create dread in the populace, but things go disastrously wrong, affecting his innocent family. Conrad's writing style is described as masterly, with a cleverly plotted depiction of nihilism and anarchism, and a satirical take on the genre of political thrillers.
Mr Verloc, going out in the morning, left his shop nominally in charge of his brother-in-law. It could be done, because there was very little business at any time, and practically none at all before t...