Books matching: sumptuous prose
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- #1
Save:Goblin Moon by Teresa Edgerton is a fantasy novel set in a pseudo Europe of the Victorian era where humans coexist with faeries, dwarves, gnomes, and dark powers. The story follows a cast of well-developed characters, both flawed and strong-hearted, as they navigate a world filled with intrigue, magic, secret societies, and fantastic creatures like trolls, hobgoblins, and fairies. The plot unfolds in a Regency-esque setting with elements of mystery, romance, alchemy, swords, muskets, and dark magics, creating a unique and engrossing narrative that keeps readers engaged till the end.
The book is praised for its refreshing take on the fantasy genre, offering a different storytelling approach without the typical epic quests or journeys. The intricate world-building, detailed character development, and faultless manners portrayed in the narrative, reminiscent of an alternate middle Europe, add depth and richness to the plot. Edgerton's sumptuous prose style, akin to a blend of Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, Terry Pratchett, and possibly Stan Lee, creates a classic yet captivating reading experience that appeals to both young and old fantasy enthusiasts.
- #2
Save:Livia Llewellyn's 'Furnace' is a collection of dark and sensual stories that blend horror, the strange, and the erotic into a haunting and evocative narrative. The book features tales that explore themes of death, annihilation, and transformation, all wrapped in sumptuous prose and unsettling dream logic. Readers are drawn into a world where reality is turned inside out, with blood, sex, and horror on full display, leaving a lasting impact reminiscent of Franz Kafka's work.
The collection showcases Llewellyn's talent for crafting stories that are dark, disturbing, and unforgettable. From explicit sex intertwined with themes of death to narratives that challenge perceptions of reality, 'Furnace' takes readers on a journey through ethereal landscapes where characters grapple with their desires, fears, and the unknown. Each story in the collection offers a unique exploration of human nature, often leaving readers with conflicting emotions and a sense of unease that lingers long after the book is closed.
There is a place deep in the warehouse district, far outside the civilized edges of the city called Obsidia, where the population bleeds off into cul-de-sacs and dead-end roads, where only abandoned b... - #3
Save:"The End of Alice" by A.M. Homes is a deeply disturbing and provocative novel that delves into the unsettling world of pedophilia. The story follows an imprisoned pedophile who engages in an erotically charged correspondence with a nineteen-year-old girl, both revealing and reveling in their obsessive desires. Through graphic descriptions and disturbing imagery, the author portrays the complexities and horrors of the characters' past and present actions, creating a novel that is part romance, part horror story, both unnerving and seductive.
Homes skillfully handles the sensitive subject matter of pedophilia with dexterity, neither sensationalizing nor glossing over the gravity of the characters' actions. is described as uncomfortable yet engrossing, challenging readers to confront the dark and twisted minds of the protagonists while also offering insights into the causes that lead to such monstrous behavior.
Who is she that she should have this afflicted addiction, this oddly acquired taste for the freshest of flesh, to tell a story that will start some of you smirking and smiling, but that will leave oth... - #4
Save:Possession by A.S. Byatt is a novel that intricately weaves together the stories of two contemporary literary scholars who uncover a hidden love affair between two Victorian poets. Through letters, journals, and poems, the scholars delve into the mystery of the poets' relationship, while also reflecting on their own connections. The book combines elements of romance, academia, and literary criticism, creating a multi-layered narrative that explores themes of passion, possession, and the power of language. Byatt's writing style is described as rich, textured, and engaging, with the inclusion of poetry and multiple writing forms adding depth to the storytelling.
If you fight or question she will toss you on the thorns and it will go ill with you before you come out of there. If she will take you, you will be set down in a bare heath, on a great stone, which i... - #5
Save:A Song of Stone by Iain M. Banks is a dark and bleak novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where societal norms have collapsed, and the characters are faced with a chaotic and violent landscape. The story revolves around Abel, an elderly Lord, and Lady Morgan, as their castle is taken over by a group of soldiers during the ongoing apocalypse. The narrative is told through Abel's perspective, showcasing the decay of civilization, the decline of the castle, and the twisted dynamics between the characters. Banks employs a formal and somewhat archaic writing style, focusing on themes of decay, destruction, and the dark nature of humanity.
Winter always was my favourite season. Is this yet winter? I do not know. There is some technical definition, something based on calendars and the position of the sun, but I think one simply becomes a... - #6
Save:The Peregrine by J.A. Baker is a nature book that follows the intense observations and tracking of peregrine falcons in the English countryside. Baker's writing style is described as poetic, lyrical, and almost like preternatural poetry, with detailed descriptions of the birds, their prey, and the surrounding landscapes. The book is written in diary form, showcasing the author's obsessive stalking of the birds over a specific hunting season, providing a unique reading experience that immerses the reader fully into the action and environment.
East of my home, the long ridge lies across the skyline like the low hull of a submarine. Above it, the eastern sky is bright with reflections of distant water, and there is a feeling of sails beyond ... - #7
Save:"Mao II" by Don DeLillo explores the link between terrorism and novelists, delving into themes of capital excess, terrorism, the media, and the cult of personality around writers. The story primarily follows a famous recluse writer named Bill Gray, his obsessive-compulsive assistant, a teenager brainwashed by the Reverend Moon, and a professional photographer. DeLillo's writing style is described as masterful prose with detached and philosophic dialog, filled with unrealistic but intentional character interactions. The novel is noted for its intense fascination with crowds and mass movements, as well as its exploration of how terrorists have supplanted the role of novelists in capturing the public's imagination.
He walked among the bookstore shelves, hearing Muzak in the air. There were rows of handsome covers, prosperous and assured. He felt a fine excitement, hefting a new book, fitting hand over sleek spin... 'A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man' by James Joyce is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows the Dublin childhood and youth of Stephen Dedalus, providing a self-portrait of the young James Joyce. The book delves into questions of origin, authority, and an artist's relationship to family, culture, and race. Written in an exuberantly inventive style, this coming-of-age story showcases Joyce's mastery of technique and narrative.
The novel explores Stephen Dedalus's journey from sin to faith, then back to disbelief, offering a unique perspective on religion and Irish politics. Through vivid characterization and complex prose, Joyce captures the essence of a young man's struggle with his identity, beliefs, and aspirations, ultimately painting a poignant picture of self-discovery and artistic growth.
Dante had two brushes in her press. The brush with the maroon velvet back was for Michael Davitt and the brush with the green velvet back was for Parnell. Dante gave him a cachou every time he brought...- #9
Save:'Bel Canto' by Ann Patchett revolves around a group of party goers who are taken hostage by terrorists in a South American country. The story delves into the unexpected bond that forms between the captors and captives, leading to love and rediscovery of the beauty of life and music. The plot unfolds slowly, focusing on character development and human interactions amidst the hostage situation, creating a sense of intimacy and connection between the diverse group of individuals.
Patchett's writing style in 'Bel Canto' is described as lyrical, engaging, and evocative, capturing the emotions and complexities of the characters in a mesmerizing manner. The novel explores themes of love, relationships, and the power of music to transcend language barriers, offering a unique perspective on the impact of unexpected circumstances on human behavior and connections.
when the lights went off the accompanist kissed her. Maybe he had been turning towards her just before it was completely dark, maybe he was lifting his hands. There must have been some movement, a ges... - #10
Save:Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of the aristocratic Flyte family and their friends. The story follows Charles Ryder, who forms connections with the Flytes, particularly Sebastian, during his time at Oxford and later at Brideshead estate. The narrative spans over two decades, intertwining themes of love, religion, duty, and decay within the backdrop of England's elite society. Waugh's writing style is described as sumptuous, elegant, and melancholic, creating a rich tapestry of characters and relationships that evolve against the backdrop of historical events like World War II.
When I reached “C” Company lines, which were at the top of the hill, I paused and looked back at the camp, just coming into full view below me through the gray mist of early morning. We were leaving t...
