Books matching: surprising conclusion
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Extinction' by Thomas Bernhard is a relentless dissection of the fictional writer's life, his family, and his surroundings. The novel delves into the protagonist's intense hatred towards various aspects of society, including Austrian politics, the Catholic Church, and his own family. The book is written in a monologue rant style, with the protagonist expressing his self-loathing and philosophical musings throughout the narrative. Despite the lack of traditional plot development, the novel captivates readers with its beautiful prose and the protagonist's introspective reflections.
- #2
Save:'The Hiding Place' by C.J. Tudor follows Joe Thorne, a high school teacher who reluctantly returns to his hometown of Arnhill after receiving a mysterious message. Joe's past is filled with family tragedy and unresolved issues, particularly regarding his little sister Annie's disappearance years ago. As Joe delves into the dark secrets of the town and its inhabitants, he uncovers a disturbing connection between past and present, leading to a suspenseful and eerie journey filled with elements of mystery, horror, and supernatural occurrences. The narrative unfolds with a mix of crime, suspense, and subtle supernatural elements, keeping the reader engaged and intrigued until the chilling conclusion.
Never go back. That’s what people always tell you. Things will have changed. They won’t be the way you remembered. Leave the past in the past. Of course, the last one is easier said than done. The pas... - #3
Save:The Aspern Papers by Henry James is a novella set in Venice, Italy, where a gentleman writer seeks fame and fortune by trying to obtain private letters of a deceased poet from a reclusive old woman. The story delves into themes of honor, deceit, greed, and fear, portraying the mental struggles of the characters as they each strive to fulfill their desires. The plot unfolds in a secluded garden, with a mix of innocence and corruption, leading to a dramatic and surprising conclusion that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
The book beautifully evokes the atmosphere of Venice, with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to the city. The characters are well-developed, with distinct personalities that drive the narrative forward. The story is a mix of humor, drama, and suspense, keeping the reader engaged until the end. Henry James' writing style shines through, capturing the complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters.
I had taken Mrs. Prest into my confidence; in truth without her I should have made but little advance, for the fruitful idea in the whole business dropped from her friendly lips. It was she who invent... - #4
Save:"Hedda Gabler" by Henrik Ibsen is a classic play that delves into the life of the protagonist, Hedda Gabler, a woman with ambitions beyond her current circumstances. Married to an aspiring academic, George Tesman, Hedda's life is thrown into disarray with the reappearance of Tesman's academic rival, Eilert Lovborg. The play explores themes of manipulation, ambition, control, and the consequences of one's actions, especially when driven by desires that lead to tragic outcomes.
- #5
Save:'Time After Time' by Lisa Grunwald is a captivating story that intertwines romance, history, and supernatural elements. Set in Grand Central Terminal, the novel follows the love story between Nora and Joe, spanning different time periods. The author skillfully weaves in real-life events, such as the train crash and missing people, adding depth to the narrative. The writing style immerses readers in the rich history of Grand Central Terminal, creating a vivid and atmospheric backdrop for the characters' experiences.
She wasn’t carrying a suitcase, and she wasn’t wearing a coat. Those were the things that struck him when he saw her for the first time. It was just a bit after sunrise on a Sunday in early December. ... - #6
Save:"Time Out of Joint" by Philip K. Dick is a science fiction novel that delves into the themes of reality and perception. The story follows the protagonist, Ragle Gumm, who lives a seemingly ordinary life in a suburban town but begins to suspect that his reality is not what it seems. As the plot unfolds, the novel explores the concept of constructed realities and the unsettling feeling of things being out of place. Written in a gripping and provocative style, the book keeps readers engaged as they navigate through a world filled with mystery and paranoia.
The writing style of "Time Out of Joint" is described as both imaginative and surreal, capturing the essence of Philip K. Dick's unique storytelling. Through his prose, Dick creates a sense of uneasiness and surreality, drawing readers into a world where the line between reality and illusion is blurred. The novel presents a thought-provoking narrative that challenges readers to question their own perceptions and ponder the nature of existence.
From the cold-storage locker at the rear of the store, Victor Nielson wheeled a cart of winter potatoes to the vegetable section of the produce department. In the almost empty bin he began dropping th... - #7
Save:The Crooked Hinge by John Dickson Carr is a classic British mystery set in an English manor home with a complex plot involving swapped identities, murder, and dark secrets. The story follows Dr. Gideon Fell as he unravels a puzzling case where a man claims to be the true owner of an estate after surviving the sinking of the Titanic, leading to a series of unexpected events and eerie discoveries. The book is praised for its atmospheric setting, red herrings, and engaging writing style that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
AT A WINDOW OVERLOOKING a garden in Kent, Brian Page sat amid a clutter of open books at the writing-table, and felt a strong distaste for work. Through both windows the late July sunlight turned the ...
(Also, see 85 recommendations for the series Dr. Gideon Fell ) - #8
Save:"Snow Woman" in the Maria Kallio series by Leena Lehtolainen, translated by Owen F. Witesman, follows Detective Maria Kallio as she investigates the mysterious death of the director of a women's retreat center. The plot also involves a subplot about a serial killer on the loose, adding complexity to the murder mystery. is set in Finland, with detailed descriptions of the scenery, weather conditions, and culture, providing a rich backdrop for the story. The narrative delves into Maria's personal life as she discovers she is pregnant, adding a personal dimension to the investigation and her interactions with colleagues.
Wind buffeted my tiny Fiat, whipping snow against the windshield. Even this far south, December had been unusually wintry. It was only three o’clock but already almost dark. Although I visited Nuuksio...
(Also, see 44 recommendations for the series Maria Kallio ) - #9
Save:Set in 15th century Holland, "The Folly of the World" by Jesse Bullington follows the journey of a disenfranchised son, Jan, who is separated from his fortune due to class customs and a great flood. Teaming up with a psychotic henchman, Sander, and a poor sea diver, Jan embarks on a quest to reclaim his wealth amidst civil strife. The novel blends historical knowledge with elements of violence, graphic sex, the supernatural, and dark humor, creating a compelling narrative that delves into Dutch politics of the time.
The story unfolds in a late Middle Ages Renaissance setting with magical elements, where a fiesty teenage shellfish gatherer, a psychotic henchman, and his ruthless gay lover navigate a freshly flooded Holland. As the trio navigates through financial and political intrigue, the narrative explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the pursuit of fortune in a world rife with violence and deception.
A hush fell over the dingy, cramped tavern. Such an occurrence was not particularly rare, requiring little more than a dirty joke, even a bewhiskered one, but quiet the place did, and the handsome str... - #10
Save:'Local Girl Missing' by Claire Douglas is a psychological thriller that revolves around the mysterious disappearance of Sophie, a young girl who goes missing from a seaside town. The story alternates between the past and present, following Sophie's best friend Frankie as she returns to her hometown to unravel the truth behind Sophie's death. With twists, red herrings, and a gripping narrative style, the book keeps readers engaged as they navigate through the complexities of friendship, secrets, and deceit.
‘Is this Francesca Howe?’ A male voice burns a hole in my memory. His warm, country timbre doesn’t belong in my office on the top floor of my parents’ hotel, with its minimalist furniture and views of...
