Books matching: slow pacing and verbosity
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- #1
The Italian by Ann Radcliffe is a gothic novel that follows the story of Vivaldi, who falls in love with Ellena, against the wishes of his family. The plot includes elements of mystery and intrigue, with warnings from a ghostly figure and a sinister black monk. The narrative is filled with lush descriptions of travel through Italy and the Alps, as well as staples of the genre like poison, evil priests, and the Inquisition. The main character, Father Schedoni, plays a pivotal role in opposing the match and his own shady past is gradually revealed, leading to a web of deceit and unraveling secrets.
The book is known for its fast-paced plot, intricate family-related twists, and a versatile character like Schedoni. Despite some finding the book slow or verbose, others appreciated the engaging scenes and the stress-inducing journey of the characters as they faced constant obstacles. The Italian is considered a classic gothic novel from the late 18th century, showcasing Radcliffe's talent for creating a suspenseful and atmospheric narrative that keeps readers intrigued.
- #2
'Journeys to the Heartland' in the series 'The Wolves of Time' by author William Horwood is a tale of wolfkind returning to their heartland to complete their legacy. The wolves face trials from humans and the evil wolf pack called the Magyars. The book delves into detailed interactions between wolves and humans, offering a well-rounded portrayal of how wolves react to each other and to us. Despite a slow beginning, the story unfolds into an interesting narrative that keeps readers engaged with its 600 pages. The book presents a diverse set of wolves from across Europe, each grieving for lost love or times past, as they strive to form a pack and reclaim their territory in The Heartland.
- #3
'The Counter-Revolution of 1776: Slave Resistance and the Origins of the United States of America' by Gerald Horne delves into the critical and paramount role of race, class, and the oppressive system in the birth of America, shedding light on the hidden truths behind the American Revolution. Through meticulous research and cogent observations, the author unveils how greed, chaos, and the counter-revolutionary spirit have driven historical events, exposing the hypocrisy of the Founding Fathers and the dark legacy of slavery that shaped the nation. Horne's narrative not only challenges the traditional founding myths but also highlights the intelligence, resourcefulness, and rebellious nature of enslaved individuals who played a significant role in shaping American history.
I had been working on the book at hand for some time and had traveled extensively. However, building renovations had prevented my access to the New York Historical Society in Manhattan until my tardy ... Howard M. Sachar's 'A History of Israel: From the Rise of Zionism to Our Time' is a comprehensive tome that delves deep into the formation of Israel, providing a detailed analysis of each aspect of the country's history. The book covers the Jewish movement to statehood and beyond, offering a complete and objective portrayal of the controversial nation. Through masterful storytelling, Sachar paints a vivid picture of the struggles, triumphs, and complexities that have shaped Israel over the years, making it a must-read for those seeking a thorough understanding of the region's history.
This is a long volume for a small country. After four far-ramifying Middle Eastern crises in one generation, however, it may be assumed that the seismic impact of Israel upon the contemporary world is...- #5
Bones of the Dragon is the first book in the Dragonships of Vindras series by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. The story follows Skylan Ivorson, an arrogant chieftain's son of a Vindrasi tribe, who embarks on an adventure with his friends to retrieve the Vektan Torque. As they encounter ogres and learn of a war between gods, their world is plunged into chaos. The book combines elements of historical fantasy with a Norse myth-like writing style, featuring straightforward emotions and plot twists that keep the reader engaged.
The hunt had not gone well. The four young men had left their village six days ago, hoping to bring down game for their people. They had caught only a few thin and undernourished rabbits, which went t... - #6
The Iron Dream by Norman Spinrad is a controversial and groundbreaking alternate history science fiction work where Adolf Hitler emigrates to the United States and becomes a celebrated science fiction writer. The novel within the book, 'Lords of the Swastika', presents a story of a post-nuclear society divided between Truemen and mutants, with the protagonist aiming to ensure the purity of the human race by exterminating mutants. Spinrad cleverly uses this premise to satirize early science fiction writer's ideas and critique the use of fascist imagery in the genre.
The book is known for its audacious and challenging concept, portraying an alternate universe where Hitler becomes a science fiction writer, and his novel wins a posthumous Hugo Award. Through the lens of this fictional work by Hitler, Spinrad explores themes of hypermasculinism, fetishism, and fascism, while also providing a critical analysis that sheds light on the underlying messages in the story.
With a great groaning of tired metal and a hiss of escaping steam, the roadsteamer from Gormond came to a halt in the grimy yard of the Pormi depot, a mere three hours late; quite a respectable perfor... - #7
In "The Darkest Road," the final book of 'The Fionavar Tapestry' series by Guy Gavriel Kay, readers are taken on a journey to the world of Fionavar where a group of University of Toronto students find themselves entangled in a prophecy involving the second coming of Rakoth Maugrim, the Unraveller. As the story unfolds, the characters face battles, sacrifices, and encounters with mythical figures like Arthur Pendragon and Guinevere, all woven together with Celtic lore and high fantasy elements. Kay's writing style is described as beautifully structured and poetic, evoking emotions and creating a sense of wonder throughout the narrative.
Once, when Kim Ford was an undergraduate, young for university and young for her age, someone had asked her that question over cappuccino on a first date. She’d been very impressed. Later, rather less...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Fionavar Tapestry ) - #8
Dark Rise by C.S. Pacat follows the story of Will, a 16-year-old boy who witnesses his mother's murder and is told he must fight alongside the Stewards against the reborn Dark King. As Will navigates a world of magic and training for an upcoming battle, he uncovers unexpected twists and turns, challenging the traditional 'good vs evil' trope. The author's writing style is described as elegant and evocative, with intricate world-building and a narrative that unfolds with suspense, capturing the nuances of the characters' voices and making them feel distinct and authentic.
WILL’S FIRST GLIMPSE of London came before the sun rose, the forest of masts on the river jet-black silhouettes against a sky barely one shade lighter, joined by hoisting cranes, scaffolding, and ever... - #9
The book follows the journey of John and his brother as they travel through time, starting from a plague-ridden 14th century England. Given the choice to either die slowly in agony or wake up 99 years later each day, they opt to journey forward in time. Each day brings new experiences and challenges as they witness changes in technology, lifestyle, and faith across different centuries. The novel explores themes of human nature, morality, and the impact of historical events on individuals, all through the lens of time travel.
The first thing you need to understand is what it means to sell your soul. It is not a matter of shaking hands with a shadowy figure, or bartering promises with a burning bush. What do you have to sel...