Books matching: struggles to connect characters
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- #1
Save:The Rising in the Alchemy Wars series by Ian Tregillis is a continuation that builds on the original world and characters, focusing on the intertwined stories of two brilliant and ruthless women, a freed mechanical servitor finding his moral code, and the philosophical reflections interwoven with action and adventure. The story delves into questions of free will, the nature of evil, and the consequences of humanity's reliance on mechanical servants in an alternative 1800s setting where the Dutch control thinking machines.
(Also, see 29 recommendations for the series The Alchemy Wars ) - #2
Save:Tell Me I'm Worthless by Allison Rumfitt is a dark haunted house story about a country plagued by transphobia and fear. Through a combination of allusion to horror classics, realistic narrative, and relentless prose Rumfitt weaves the story of Alice and Ila and a house haunted by hate. The author deploys a haunted house trope as a metaphor for our culture's metastasizing cancer of hate and authoritarianism, showing how victims of hate sometimes internalize that hate. The book follows Alice and Ila, two former lovers, through the disconnect and disaster that has followed them since they entered the House. The premise for the book is interesting in that it is a horror novel that addresses TERFs transphobia and offers a criticism of current affairs. The book focuses on transphobia and how fascism contributes to it and how it is prominent still in British society. The whole book really focuses on the fact that society is full of fascists and TERFS, still to this day, and how they cause trans women so much terror and threat.
Significant lengths of the book are devoted to a kind of stream of consciousness rant, which might be somewhat interesting if the book didn't sometimes confuse which point of view was meant to be speaking. The two principal characters are tortured by self-loathing, often delusional and self-destructive. The author wrote this during the pandemic lockdowns and stated in an interview that she wanted to take her love of gothic horror and haunted houses and use it to explore right-wing politics. The book is a harrowing read not just because of the malice it depicts, but in showing how victims of hate sometimes internalize that hate. It is also a horror book, and quite disturbing.
'Ingathering: The Complete People Stories' by Zenna Henderson is a collection of inter-connected stories about a group of alien refugees known as The People who settle in the American southwest in the early 20th century. The stories depict themes of kindness, generosity, and acceptance, as The People navigate being feared and mistreated by US citizens while still offering care and help to those around them. Henderson's writing style is described as imaginative, capturing the essence of humanity's potential with a naive sweetness that is not cloying.
The window of the bus was a dark square against the featureless night. Lea let her eyes focus slowly from their unthinking blur until her face materialized, faint and fragmentary, highlighted by the d...- #4
Save:'Brawn' in the 'New Species' series by Laurann Dohner is a paranormal romance erotica novel that follows the story of Brawn, a New Species male mixed with animal DNA, and Becca, a strong-willed human. Their paths cross when they are kidnapped and forced into a cage together, leading to a complex and emotional relationship. The plot includes elements of abduction, romance, and danger, as the characters navigate their feelings and insecurities while dealing with the aftermath of their captivity.
The writing style of 'Brawn' is described as original and engaging, with intriguing and likable characters. explores themes of dominance, possessiveness, and loyalty, set in a fantasy world where New Species males form relationships with human females. The story delves into the challenges faced by the characters, including emotional ups and downs, steamy romance, and intense moments that keep readers captivated throughout the book.
“No.” She shook her head vehemently and leaned against her car. He’d just announced he had agreed to allow some man to move into her home but it was hers. “You can’t just order me to live with you or ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series New Species ) - #5
Save:Meanwhile in Dopamine City by DBC Pierre is a novel that delves into the intrusive nature of social media in modern society. The story follows a father who is forced to join social media in order to connect with his daughter, leading to the pages of the book being split into the main narrative and a social media feed. This unique format disrupts the reading experience, reflecting the disruptive influence of social media on the characters' lives and the world around them. The book explores themes of celebrity culture, cancel culture, and the blurred lines between the real world and the digital realm, creating a dark and satirical commentary on the impact of social media on day-to-day life.
DBC Pierre's writing style in Meanwhile in Dopamine City is described as insightful, brilliant, dark, and engaging. The book combines elements of pop culture, politics, and social media, providing a unique and thought-provoking commentary on the ways in which technology and social media influence our lives. The split-page format, with the left side dedicated to the main story and the right side to the social media feed, adds an innovative and disruptive element to the narrative, mirroring the overwhelming presence of social media in the characters' lives.
- #6
Save:Set in a poverty-stricken town in Kentucky, 'Kyland' follows the story of two academically inclined teenagers, Tenleigh and Kyland, who are competing for a college scholarship to escape their difficult lives. The book beautifully portrays their struggles, sacrifices, and dreams for a better future, all while navigating the complexities of their growing relationship. Mia Sheridan's writing style vividly brings to life the town, the characters, and the emotional journey, making the readers feel deeply connected to the story.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Sign of Love ) - #7
Save:Sarina Bowen's "Hard Hitter" from the Brooklyn Bruisers series follows the unlikely romance between team captain and enforcer, Patrick O'Doul, and the team's massage therapist, Ariana "Ari" Bettini. Patrick, a stoic and old-school hockey player, finds himself drawn to Ari despite his aversion to emotional intimacy. As they navigate their personal struggles and past traumas, their relationship blossoms, leading to a heartfelt and steamy romance. The book delves into themes of personal growth, healing from past wounds, and the complexities of relationships, all set against the backdrop of the Brooklyn Bruisers hockey team.
The writing style in "Hard Hitter" is praised for its engaging storytelling, well-developed characters, and realistic dialogue. Readers appreciate how Sarina Bowen weaves together the romance between Patrick and Ari with intricate plot details and emotional depth, creating a captivating and fast-paced narrative that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
O’Doul didn’t give a crap about yoga. He didn’t know where his chakras were, and he didn’t remember any of the names of the poses. But on game day he never objected to this mandatory hour of Simon Say...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Brooklyn ) - #8
Save:The Diary of a Country Priest by Georges Bernanos is a complex novel that follows the story of a young parish priest in a remote French village. The book delves into philosophical and theological debates, portraying the protagonist's struggles with pride, piety, and martyrdom. Through dense dialogues and a fictional diary format, Bernanos explores the protagonist's interactions with various characters who represent different aspects of the author's ideological history. The narrative unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, challenging both the characters and readers to confront existential questions without providing easy answers.
Mine is a parish like all the rest. They’re all alike. Those of to-day I mean. I was saying so only yesterday to M. le Curé de Norenfontes—that good and evil are probably evenly distributed, but on su... - #9
Save:Adjacent But Only Just is a Historical Romance novel set in the highlands of Scotland, focusing on the love story between Malcolm and Viola. The book is praised for its well-written characters, emotional depth, and beautiful descriptions of the highland setting. Readers appreciate the growth and development of the characters, as well as the unexpected twists in the plot that keep them engaged. The author's writing style is described as compelling, thoughtful, enchanting, and beautifully written.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Penn-Leiths of Thistle Muir ) - #10
Save:Evenings and Weekends by Oisín McKenna is a debut novel that dives into the lives of interconnected characters living in London during a sweltering summer weekend in 2019. The story follows several friends, notably Maggie, Phil, and Ed, as they navigate love, pregnancy, and personal crises. McKenna expertly weaves multiple perspectives together, exploring themes of identity, relationships, and the struggles of modern life. The plot feels expansive, covering various plot threads, but maintains an emotional depth that resonates with readers.
The writing style is a blend of humor and poignancy, with sharp dialogue that brings authenticity to the characters. McKenna captures the atmosphere of London through vivid descriptions and specific local references, making it relatable for those familiar with the city. The novel balances moments of lightness with serious undertones, creating a compelling read that challenges stereotypes often found in commercial fiction. Overall, it offers a gritty yet tender glimpse into the complexities of navigating adulthood and love in a bustling urban environment.
