Books matching: slow and deliberate pacing
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- #1
Save:Set in post-WWI England, 'The Paying Guests' by Sarah Waters follows Frances Wrey and her widowed mother as they decide to take in lodgers for income. The married couple, Leonard and Lilian Barber, bring modernity and intrigue into the genteel household, leading to a curious relationship between Frances and Lilian. The story unfolds with shocking secrets, a murder, and a court case, creating a highly original and imaginative plot that delves into the complexities of relationships and societal norms in the 1920s.
The Barbers had said they would arrive by three. It was like waiting to begin a journey, Frances thought. She and her mother had spent the morning watching the clock, unable to relax. At half-past two... - #2
Save:The Rogue Crown, part of 'The Five Crowns of Okrith' series by A.K. Mulford, follows the story of Briatta Catullus and Lina Thorne, the crown princess of the western Court. Bri, who had been cast out of the western court at birth, is called back to protect Princess Lina after the Queen's assassination. The plot is filled with adventure, love, and a touch of spice, as Bri finds herself falling for Lina despite the prophecy that Bri would take the crown from the Queen's head. The book delves into themes of loss, grief, love, and the struggle for power in the kingdom of Okrith, all while navigating complex relationships and uncovering hidden truths.
The writing style in 'The Rogue Crown' is praised for its elegant and gentle handling of emotional moments, surprising plot twists, and well-developed characters like Bri and Lina. Readers appreciate the sapphic fantasy romance, enemies-to-lovers trope, and found family dynamics, making this book a captivating and engaging addition to the series.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Five Crowns of Okrith ) - #3
Save:Bill Clegg's novel 'The End of the Day' follows the lives of multiple characters whose seemingly disparate lives are intertwined by long-held secrets and betrayals spanning over 60 years. The story delves into their complicated relationships, grappling with themes of acceptance, forgiveness, regrets, and the meaning of family. The narrative unfolds through rotating chapters from the past and present, gradually connecting the characters and revealing the mysteries that bind them together, showcasing Clegg's unique writing style that is character-driven and filled with poignant observations.
- #4
Save:'Dark Dance' by Tanith Lee is a dark fantasy novel that delves into the world of vampires with a unique twist. The plot revolves around the Scarabae family, ancient vampires living in seclusion in a decaying mansion by the sea. The story follows Rachaela Day, a woman who is drawn back to her family home where she uncovers disturbing secrets and dark family dynamics. As the mysteries unravel, the narrative explores themes of dysfunctional families, ancient traditions, and the unsettling nature of vampirism. Tanith Lee's writing style is described as atmospheric, eerie, and unsettling, creating a gothic and suspenseful tone throughout the book.
It pressed round her, walls of yellow breath. She walked in a moving jail. At intervals the stem of a street light would loom like a great thin tree, or an angled wall would jut out. High above, elect... - #5
Save:"The Sweet Dove Died" by Barbara Pym follows the story of Leonora Eyre, an unmarried woman of a certain age who forms strong attachments to Humphrey Boyce and his nephew James. The novel delves into the complexities of relationships between men and women, portraying a bittersweet tale of unrequited love, jealousy, and manipulation. Barbara Pym's writing style is characterized by subtle wit, incisive observations, and a focus on the inner lives of characters living quiet, retiring lives in England.
The plot of "The Sweet Dove Died" revolves around Leonora's interactions with Humphrey, James, and other supporting characters, exploring themes of aging, loneliness, and the dynamics of human relationships. Pym's narrative skillfully navigates the nuances of social nuances, snobbery, and the emotional intricacies of the characters, creating a compelling story that offers insights into the complexities of human nature.
‘The sale room is no place for a woman,’ declared Humphrey Boyce, as he and his nephew James sat having lunch with the attractive stranger they had picked up at a Bond Street sale room half an hour ag... - #6
Save:The Tartar Steppe by Dino Buzzati is a novel that follows the story of Giovanni Drogo, a young soldier who is stationed at Fort Bastiani on the border of the Tartar Steppe. The book explores themes of solitude, the futility of military preparations in times of peace, and the struggle to find purpose in life while waiting for something significant to happen. Buzzati's writing is described as sparse yet beautifully told, capturing the eerie and suspenseful atmosphere of the isolated fortress and the desolate steppe.
The novel portrays the protagonist's journey of waiting for glory and purpose in a setting filled with absurd military bureaucracy, monotony, and the passage of time. The narrative delves into Drogo's internal conflicts, his gradual acceptance of his isolated existence, and the haunting realization of missed opportunities and wasted time as he becomes entrenched in the routine and hopelessness of his post at Bastiani fortress.
He had himself called while it was still dark and for the first time put on his lieutenant’s uniform. When he had done, he looked at himself in the mirror by the light of an oil lamp but failed to fin... - #7
Save:"The Big Time" by Fritz Leiber is a science fiction novel set in a timeless war between two mysterious factions, the Spiders and the Snakes, fighting to alter history across various time periods. The story follows Greta, an Entertainer for the Spiders, as she navigates a crisis in a Place outside of time and space, where soldiers on furlough face unexpected challenges and mysteries. The narrative unfolds in a claustrophobic setting, focusing on the unraveling of characters' lives, relationships, and the psychological impact of their experiences in the cosmic war.
The writing style in "The Big Time" is described as cinematic and engaging, with a focus on character development within a closed room mystery setting. delves into themes of time travel, manipulation of history, and the consequences of interference with events, presenting a unique perspective on the complexities of a war waged outside of time. Despite some readers finding the plot challenging to follow initially, the novel offers a mix of intriguing concepts, philosophical discussions, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged throughout the story.
My name is Greta Forzane. Twenty-nine and a party girl would describe me. I was born in Chicago, of Scandinavian parents, but now I operate chiefly outside space and time—not in Heaven or Hell, if the... - #8
Save:"Dinotopia: A Land Apart from Time" by James Gurney is a beautifully illustrated picture book that follows the story of a Victorian explorer, Arthur Denison, and his 12-year-old son Will, who find themselves washed up in the magical land of Dinotopia after a plane crash. The book is written in a diary journal style, detailing the adventures of humans and dinosaurs living together peacefully in this extraordinary world. The illustrations in the book are outstanding, capturing the imagination of readers and bringing the story to life. The plot revolves around the unique interactions between the human characters and the dinosaurs, creating an intriguing and adventurous tale that appeals to both adults and teenagers.
The writing style of the book is described as smart and wonderfully illustrated, with a Victorian explorer diary narrative that adds depth to the story. The book is updated slightly to the present age, maintaining the timeless essence of Dinotopia itself while introducing new elements to engage modern readers. The detailed descriptions of the dinosaurs and the peaceful coexistence with humans, combined with the beautiful illustrations, make this book a captivating read for those interested in art, dinosaurs, and adventure.
- #9
Save:'A Week in Winter' by Maeve Binchy is a heartwarming novel set at a newly established country inn on the Irish coast. The story revolves around the lives of a diverse group of characters who gather at Stone House during its opening week. Each character brings their own set of problems and stories, which are explored through individual chapters, creating a tapestry of interconnected lives. Binchy's writing style is described as comfortable and homey, focusing on character development and interwoven narratives that provide a glimpse into the lives of the characters.
Everyone had their own job to do on the Ryans’ farm in Stoneybridge. The boys helped their father in the fields, mending fences, bringing the cows back to be milked, digging drills of potatoes; Mary f... - #10
Save:In "The Book of Strange New Things" by Michel Faber, the story follows Peter Leigh, a devoted Christian missionary who is selected by a mysterious corporation called USIC to travel to a faraway planet named Oasis to minister to the indigenous population. As Peter navigates his new role on Oasis, he maintains communication with his wife, Bea, who is facing challenges on Earth due to societal collapse and environmental crises. The novel delves into themes of faith, love, communication, and the impact of extreme circumstances on individuals and relationships, all set against the backdrop of a unique sci-fi world.
Michel Faber expertly crafts a narrative that explores complex characters, intricate relationships, and thought-provoking themes through the lens of science fiction. The book presents a compelling story of love transcending space and time, the clash of cultures, the fragility of human connections, and the exploration of faith and religion in unfamiliar territories. Faber's writing style vividly describes the alien planet Oasis, the emotional turmoil of the characters, and the philosophical questions raised throughout the novel.
He was quiet, keeping his eyes on the road. In the darkness of the city’s outskirts, there was nothing to see except the tail-lights of other cars in the distance, the endless unfurling roll of tarmac...
