Books matching: social class struggles
100 result(s)
- #1
'The Wood Nymph' by Mary Balogh follows the story of William Mainwaring, a socially awkward man raised in isolation by his uncle, and Lady Helen Wade, a young lady with a dual personality - Nell, a fairy-like creature who seeks solace in nature, and Helen, a titled lady who struggles with societal expectations. The book delves into their unconventional romance, complicated by misunderstandings, societal pressures, and personal insecurities. The narrative style of the book is heavily descriptive, focusing on the characters' internal thoughts and emotions rather than dialogue, while also exploring themes of love, nature, and societal class distinctions.
“Whatever I do with it, Mama,” the girl complained, “it is still askew just a few minutes later. I do believe Miss James was at fault when she made the dress. I wish we did not have to rely on rustic ...
(Also, see 10 recommendations for the series Mainwaring ) - #2
The Mask of Mirrors in the Rook & Rose series by M.A. Carrick follows the intricate plot of a con artist named Ren trying to infiltrate high society in a medievalist city. The narrative delves into political intrigue, dynamic sword fights, and a collision of classes and secrets, all while exploring themes of gender and sexuality acceptance. The story is told from multiple perspectives, including Ren, a crime lord, an aristocrat, and a masked vigilante, as they navigate a world filled with ulterior motives and long cons. The book is praised for its detailed world-building, complex characters, and engaging storytelling style that keeps readers hooked till the end.
A creak in the hallway above made Tess squeak. Footsteps on the stairs became Simlin rounding the corner. He jerked to a halt when he saw them in the alcove. “There you are,” he said, as if he’d been ... - #3
Spellbreaker by Charlie N. Holmberg follows the story of Elsie Camden, an orphan with a unique ability to break spells. She is recruited by an underground group called the Cowls to undo harmful spells cast by the elite in Victorian England. Elsie's encounter with Bacchus Kelsey, an elite magician, leads to a bargain where she helps him fix spells in exchange for her secret being kept safe. As they work together, they uncover a dangerous plot involving murders of wizards and the theft of their spellbooks, revealing secrets about Elsie's past and her family.
The book combines elements of magic, mystery, and social justice, creating a world where class divides are intertwined with magical abilities. The story follows Elsie and Bacchus as they navigate a world filled with intrigue, danger, and forbidden magic, while developing a deepening bond that may lead to unexpected consequences.
Slipping around a corner, Elsie pulled the letter from her pocket. Although London was only an hour’s ride by omnibus or carriage from her home in Brookley, she was not familiar with this particular n... - #4
Martha Quest by Doris Lessing is the first novel in the Children of Violence series, offering a classic bildungsroman narrative following the titular character, Martha, as she navigates her teenage years in Southern Africa during the late 1930s. The book presents Martha's journey from her conservative upbringing on her parents' farm to her exploration of a more liberal worldview in the city, where she encounters societal issues such as racism, socialism, and sexual liberation. Lessing's writing style intricately captures Martha's rebellious feelings and struggles against societal norms, offering a profound exploration of the protagonist's coming-of-age experience.
The narrative of Martha Quest is enriched by Lessing's skillful character development and vivid portrayal of the political and social landscape of the time. Through Martha's introspective journey, the book delves into themes of personal growth, family dynamics, and societal expectations, providing a compelling depiction of a young woman's quest for identity and purpose amidst a changing world.
Two elderly women sat knitting on that part of the veranda which was screened from the sun by a golden shower creeper; the tough stems were so thick with flower it was as if the glaring afternoon was ... - #5
'Cathedral of the Sea' by Ildefonso Falcones is a historical novel set in 14th-century Barcelona during the construction of the Santa Maria del Mar cathedral. The story follows the life of Arnau Estanyol, a peasant freeman tradesman, as he navigates through the horrors of war, plague, and the Inquisition. The narrative covers various historical events and social classes, providing a vivid depiction of medieval Barcelona.
The writing style of the book is engaging and well-researched, offering readers an immersive experience into the life and struggles of the characters. The plot revolves around Arnau's journey from a humble beginning to significant wealth, intertwined with the challenges of the time period, such as feudal laws, religious authorities, and societal norms. While drawing comparisons to 'Pillars of the Earth,' the book stands out for its detailed descriptions of medieval Barcelona and its characters' compelling story arcs.
BERNAT REALIZED NOBODY was looking in his direction, and glanced up at the clear blue sky. The weak late September sun played on the faces of his guests. He had put so much time and effort into prepar... - #6
The Gracekeepers by Kirsty Logan is a lyrical and magical tale set in a post-apocalyptic world where most of the land has been overtaken by the sea. The story follows two main characters, Callanish, a Gracekeeper who tends to the dead at sea, and North, a circus performer on a floating troupe. Their lives intersect, leading to unexpected twists and new purposes, all while exploring themes of loneliness, love, and acceptance in a divided society of landlockers and damplings.
The first Callanish knew of the Circus Excalibur was the striped silk of their sails against the gray sky. They approached her tiny island in convoy: the main boat with its bobbing trail of canvas-cov... - #7
The Seduction of the Crimson Rose by Lauren Willig is the fourth installment in the Pink Carnation series. The book follows the story of Mary Alsworthy and Lord Vaughn as they navigate a complex romance while unraveling the mystery of the deadly spy, the Black Tulip. Set in Napoleonic England, the novel seamlessly weaves historical elements with a touch of intellectual romance, focusing on the character dynamics and the intrigue surrounding the spy plot. Willig's writing style is praised for its witty banter, engaging dialogues, and the balance between historical references and contemporary storytelling techniques, making it an enjoyable and entertaining historical fiction read.
Sebastian, Lord Vaughn, stood beside a rusting suit of armor, a dusty glass of claret in hand, wondering for the tenth time what evil demon had possessed him to accept an invitation to the house party...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Pink Carnation ) - #8
In "The French Lieutenant's Woman," John Fowles masterfully plunges readers into 19th century Victorian England, exploring social customs, sexual taboos, and moral attitudes through the characters of Charles Smithson and Sarah Woodruff. The novel is a blend of historical dramatic fiction set in the late 19th century in England, written with touches of 20th-century metafiction, where the author cleverly critiques his Victorian protagonists from a modern perspective. Fowles presents a complex narrative with multiple possible endings, challenging the reader's perception of free will, evolution, and societal norms.
The story follows Charles Smithson, a Victorian gentleman engaged to Ernestina, who becomes fascinated with Sarah Woodruff, a mysterious woman rumored to be the spurned ex-mistress of a French naval officer. Through Fowles' unique narrative style, which combines elements of the Victorian era with 20th-century commentary, readers are taken on a journey of love, betrayal, societal expectations, and personal identity, all set against the backdrop of a changing world and conflicting values.
AN EASTERLY IS the most disagreeable wind in Lyme Bay – Lyme Bay being that largest bite from the underside of England’s outstretched south-western leg – and a person of curiosity could at once have d... - #9
'Miss Mackenzie' by Anthony Trollope follows the story of Margaret, a spinster who unexpectedly inherits a fortune from her deceased brother. As Margaret navigates her new social status, she is faced with multiple suitors vying for her hand in marriage. The novel delves into the complexities of Victorian society, showcasing the societal norms and expectations that shape Margaret's decisions. Trollope's writing style captures the nuances of the era, portraying characters struggling to navigate the rigid rules of society while also highlighting themes of money, class, and relationships.
- #10
In "The Bride Price" by Quenby Olson, Emily Collicott makes a difficult choice to marry a stranger to secure a future for herself and her sisters after her reputation is ruined by a heartless rake. Despite the circumstances of their marriage, she finds happiness with her new husband, William, but their peaceful life is threatened when the man who ruined her reputation reappears, putting everything she holds dear at risk. The story unfolds with a realistic portrayal of the powerlessness of women at the time, exploring themes of resilience, adversity, and the complexities of relationships.