Books matching: slow pacing with tension build up
19 result(s)
- #1
Hilary Mantel has written a very long book about the French Revolution, focusing on the Great Terror. The story follows three main protagonists - Danton, Robespierre, and Desmoulins, along with a myriad of other characters, capturing the complexities and intricacies of the era. The narrative delves into the internal struggles of the Revolutionaries, torn between impending invasion by outside forces and the potential for civil war within their own ranks.
NOW THAT THE DUST has settled, we can begin to look at our situation. Now that the last red tile has been laid on the roof of the New House, now that the marriage contract is four years old. The town ... - #2
'Down London Road' in the 'On Dublin Street' series by Samantha Young follows the intertwining lives of Jo and Cam as secrets are revealed, truths shared, and a deep connection forms between them. Jo, portrayed as a money-hungry individual by some, is shown to be selfless and resilient in her decisions, while Cam evolves from being perceived as a jerk to a caring and understanding individual. The book delves into themes of personal growth, family dynamics, and the complexities of relationships, all while maintaining a captivating and emotional storyline.
The novel explores dark issues like alcoholism, child abuse, and domestic violence with sensitivity and depth. Jo's journey towards self-acceptance and finding true love amidst her struggles is intertwined with heartwarming relationships, intense romance, and well-developed characters. Samantha Young's writing style is described as addictive, emotional, and filled with palpable tension and passion, creating a story that is both romantic and angsty, leaving readers engaged and invested in the characters' lives.
I looked upon the piece of art and wondered what the heck I was looking at. To me it was just a bunch of lines and squares in different colours with some shading here and there. It looked familiar. In...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series On Dublin Street ) - #3
The Naughty Pine by Sibylla Matilde is a second chance romance novel that delves into the world of BDSM with a focus on communication and self-discovery. The story follows D rah, a single mother tired of her mundane existence, who finds herself face-to-face with her first husband, Jace, at a kink club. Through a rollercoaster of emotions and intense chemistry, the characters navigate their past, insecurities, and desires to find their way back to each other. Matilde's writing style effortlessly brings the characters and scenes to life, immersing readers in the world of Rogue and Chickadee.
As I stood there in the small reception area of The Naughty Pine, trembling under my disguise, I wondered for the gazillionth time what I was doing there. My palms were sweaty. My stomach kept doing l... - #4
The Warren by Brian B.K. Evenson is a tightly written science fiction novella set in a post-apocalyptic world where the protagonist, X, grapples with questions of identity and survival. X, the sole inhabitant of an underground complex, faces a confusing reality where his memories are unreliable, and the implanted personalities of his predecessors complicate his understanding of himself. The narrative unfolds in a cryptic manner, leaving readers questioning the nature of consciousness, humanity, and the construction of identity in a bleak and atmospheric setting.
Evenson's writing style in The Warren is marked by its masterful and stark prose, reminiscent of Gene Wolfe, which immerses readers in the protagonist's existential confusion. The novella skillfully explores themes of identity, agency, and the post-apocalyptic world, keeping readers engaged with a compelling plot full of unanswered questions that lead to a desperate finale. The book's refusal to offer easy answers and its complex characters make it a thought-provoking read that leaves readers pondering the deeper meanings behind the narrative.
I shall begin this written record by reporting the substance of our last conversation—which was not only the last conversation I had with Horak but the last I had with anyone or ever expect to have. P... - #5
'Shattered Vow' in the series 'Shadowblood Souls' by Eva Chase is a thrilling tale that follows Riva, a strong and determined character who is on a quest to reunite with her men despite the challenges they face. The book is filled with emotional rollercoasters, intense scenes, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged. The story unfolds with a mix of hurt, anger, loss, and betrayal, leading to a powerful narrative that delves into themes of loyalty, resilience, and the complexities of relationships.
The writing style of Eva Chase in 'Shattered Vow' is described as unique, engaging, and emotional by readers. The characters are well-developed, the plot is filled with suspense and action, and the delivery of twists and turns keeps the story unpredictable and compelling. The book's cliffhanger ending leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series, showcasing Chase's ability to captivate readers with her storytelling.
- #6
The Talisman by Jonathan Aycliffe is a modern Gothic horror novel that revolves around the discovery of an ancient Babylonian talisman and a statue representing a primeval version of Satan, Shabbatil. The story unfolds as a museum curator, Tom, and his wife, Nicola, along with their son, Adam, become entangled in the evil unleashed by the talisman. The plot slowly unravels the mystery of the Babylonian demon and the resulting plagues of blindness and demonic children, building up to a horrifying crescendo of evil. Aycliffe's writing style is spare yet effective, creating a sense of creeping dread and tension that keeps readers on edge until the ambiguous ending.
- #7
In 'His Best Friend's Baby' by Molly O'Keefe, the story revolves around the intertwined lives of Julia, Jesse, and Mitch in a small desert town. The plot delves into the complexities of relationships, guilt, and trust, as Julia navigates her feelings towards her deceased husband Mitch, her son Ben, and her growing affection for Jesse. Secrets from the past, conflicting emotions, and the burden of guilt create a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged until the final revelation of the truth behind the deaths of Jesse's friends in Iraq. O'Keefe's writing style skillfully weaves together multiple plot lines, focusing on character development and emotional depth to draw readers into the lives of Julia and Jesse, two charismatic protagonists with a shared history and a complex relationship.
Billy looked stunned, no doubt used to a friendlier sort of drinker in this crappy sports bar. “Yeah, ah, sure. I’ll be down here if you need me.” Billy backed toward the other end of the bar where tw... - #8
The Rotting Within by Matt Kurtz follows Kenzie as she seeks refuge with her two children at her estranged grandmother's mysterious Bed and Breakfast. The story is filled with action, suspense, and terror, as Kenzie and her children navigate a dark and eerie atmosphere, uncovering forbidden secrets on the third floor of the inn. The writing style captures the reader's attention with a contemporary gothic feel, building mistrust and dread throughout the narrative. Kurtz skillfully blends supernatural elements with real-life struggles, creating a tale of betrayal, generational abuse, and sinister plots that keep the reader on edge until the very last page.
- #9
'Night Stone' by Rick Hautala is a supernatural horror novel that centers around a man moving with his family into their ancestral home, which holds a haunted past. The plot involves the husband's obsession with uncovering the mysteries of the house's history, leading to terrifying experiences for the family members. The writing style of the book is described as filled with a creepy tension that builds up to a shocking climax, creating a spine-tingling atmosphere that keeps the readers on edge. The story combines elements of psychological thriller with supernatural occurrences, focusing more on creating an eerie ambiance rather than relying on excessive bloodshed.
- #10
'On Such a Full Sea' by Chang-rae Lee is a dystopian novel set in a future where society is divided into rich charter villages and working-class towns. The story follows Fan, a Chinese girl working as a fish farmer in a working-class town, who embarks on a journey to find her missing boyfriend, Reg. The book explores themes of society's class divisions, human trafficking, and the struggle for survival in a harsh and dangerous world. The writing style is described as varied, precise, and sometimes poetic, with a focus on world-building and social commentary.
It is known where we come from, but no one much cares about things like that anymore. We think, Why bother? Except for a lucky few, everyone is from someplace, but that someplace, it turns out, is gon...