Books matching: survival and sacrifice
100 result(s)
- #1
The Night Ends with Fire by K.X. Song is a captivating Mulan retelling that has readers hooked with its blend of fantasy, romance, and drama. The story follows Meilin, a strong character who disguises her identity to join an army that forbids female soldiers. As she navigates the challenges of war, the plot weaves a complex love triangle that includes elements of pining and a hint of enemies to lovers dynamics. Fans of deep emotional tension and longing will find this book engaging as it unfolds with twists and turns that add to the romance and adventure.
- #2
Tsura is a historical romance novel set in Romania during WWII, focusing on the life of Tsura, a young woman who finds herself in a marriage of convenience with Mihai, an enemy translator, in order to save her friends and locate her missing brother. The book explores themes of survival, sacrifices, unlikely friendships, and the harsh realities faced by individuals during the war. The writing style is described as atmospheric, with a sense of danger surrounding the characters, and the plot includes elements of mystery, tragedy, human suffering, and different ways of thinking.
Do not live life looking ahead or behind you like the gagii do, Tsura’s grandfather once told her. Only fools think they can live in the future, even though it does not exist until you are there! But ... - #3
Exodus by Julie Bertagna is a dystopian novel set in the year 2100, where global warming has caused massive flooding due to the melting of the polar ice caps. The story follows Mara, a young girl from an island community facing the threat of being engulfed by rising sea levels. Mara discovers evidence of a new world high above the ocean and convinces her people to embark on a perilous journey to find refuge in the legendary city of New Mungo. As they face numerous challenges and obstacles, including a barrier wall and a refugee camp, Mara must navigate through a world of survival, sacrifice, and ethical dilemmas to ensure the safety of her community.
Exodus unfolds as a lyrical and thought-provoking narrative, focusing on Mara's leadership, determination, and moral compass in the face of a changing world. The novel delves into themes of climate change, societal collapse, and the struggle for survival, offering a richly detailed and vividly described setting that captivates readers with its immersive world-building and complex characters.
The people of Wing are gathering in what's left of their village. Downhill, the salty, sea-lashed streets run straight into churning, cold-boiled ocean. The oldest islanders can remember a time when W... - #4
'Wolves' by D.J. Molles is a dark and gritty tale set in a post-apocalyptic world where society has collapsed, and survivors are struggling to navigate a violent and unforgiving landscape. The story follows Huxley, a man seeking revenge against those who have wronged him, leading him down a path of moral ambiguity and ruthless decisions. The narrative delves into themes of survival, revenge, and the lengths individuals will go to protect their loved ones in a world devoid of societal norms and rules.
That much has become clear. Death sits in the aching tension in his muscles, how they refuse to propel him forward even one more step. He can feel it in the cramps in his stomach, and in the throbbing... - #5
'Lifestyles of Gods and Monsters' by Emily Roberson is a modern retelling of the myth of the Minotaur, infused with elements of paparazzi, romance, reality TV, and loving against impossible odds. The story revolves around Ariadne, who has led 14 teens to their death in a maze with a minotaur for ten seasons of a reality show. When Theseus arrives seeking her help, she faces a dilemma of choosing between her family and helping him. The book delves into the dark and complex dynamics of a dysfunctional family living in a world where heroes and monsters are real, offering a unique twist to the traditional myth. Roberson's writing style is engaging, drawing readers in with well-thought-out characters and a plot that seamlessly blends ancient mythology with contemporary elements like cell phones and cameras.
In the series of paparazzi shots, she strides across the pasture. No Photoshop. No airbrush. No filters. It is a long walk, and the photographers got her from every angle. As always, she is trim, tann... - #6
The German Midwife by Mandy Robotham is a gripping historical fiction novel set during World War II, focusing on the character of Angke Hoff, a German midwife who finds herself in a morally complex situation. Assigned to assist Eva Braun, who is pregnant with Hitler's child, Angke faces an impossible choice between serving the Reich or sacrificing an innocent life. The book intricately weaves together themes of motherhood, survival, and the horrors of war, offering a unique perspective on the lives of women in German prison camps during the Holocaust.
The narrative is enriched with vivid details and thorough research into the historical backdrop of Eva Braun and Adolf Hitler's life at the Berghof. The author, Mandy Robotham, skillfully blends fiction with reality, presenting a thought-provoking exploration of the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. The book delves into the complexities of human nature, posing challenging questions about responsibility, sacrifice, and the limits of compassion in the face of unimaginable circumstances.
For a few moments, the hut was as quiet as it ever could be in the early hours, a near silence broken only by the sound of a few feminine snores. The night monitor padded up and down the lines of bunk... - #7
The Children's Blizzard by Melanie Benjamin is a historical fiction novel that delves into the harrowing events of the Schoolchildren's Blizzard that struck the plains states in 1888. The story primarily follows two teenage sisters, Raina and Gerda Olsen, who are school teachers in the Dakota and Nebraska territories. As the unexpected blizzard hits, the sisters are faced with life and death decisions for themselves and their students, setting the stage for a gripping tale of survival, sacrifice, and the lasting impact of their choices. Through vivid storytelling and multiple character perspectives, the author paints a poignant picture of the blizzard's aftermath and the personal struggles faced by the individuals caught in its path.
The prairie was burning, snapping and hissing, sparks flying in every direction, propelled by the scorching wind. Sparks falling as thick as snowflakes in winter, burning tiny holes in cloth, stinging... - #8
Gabriel Chevallier's 'Fear: A Novel of World War I' is a gripping account of the horrors and realities faced by soldiers during the First World War. Through the eyes of the narrator, Jean Dartemont, the readers are taken on a journey through the trenches, witnessing the tedium, terror, and sheer brutality of war. The book delves into the psychological impact of fear and self-preservation on infantrymen, while also touching upon themes of survival, sacrifice, and the futility of war. Chevallier's writing style is described as compelling, evocative, and thoroughly immersive, providing a detailed and graphic portrayal of life during wartime.
The novel also explores the political and social aspects of war, with Chevallier infusing his personal experiences from WWI to highlight the injustices, absurdities, and human costs of conflict. Through vivid descriptions and poignant reflections, the author challenges the reader to confront the harsh realities of warfare, while weaving in elements of existentialism, humanism, and deep philosophical introspection.
‘THE YELLOW LIGHT OF A DAY that seemed to falter as if it too was struck by horror, illuminated a lifeless, soundless battlefield. It was as if everything around us and off into infinity was dead, and... - #9
'Prince's Gambit' in the series 'Captive Prince' by C.S. Pacat is a captivating story that follows the journey of Prince Laurent and his slave, Damen, as they navigate through political intrigue, war strategy, and court dynamics in a historical AU setting. The book intricately weaves together elements of romance, fantasy, and slow-burn enemies-to-lovers relationship between the two main characters, all while keeping readers engaged with its well-paced plot and unexpected twists.
The writing style of C.S. Pacat is hailed as masterful, with readers praising the vivid storytelling, clever plot development, and intricate character dynamics. The book is commended for its ability to blend elements of romance, fantasy, and political intrigue seamlessly, creating a story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats while also delving deep into the minds of the characters.
The shadows were long with sunset when they rode up, and the horizon was red. Chastillon was a single jutting tower, a dark round bulk against the sky. It was huge and old, like the castles far to the...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Captive Prince ) - #10
Feast of Souls by C.S. Friedman is a dark fantasy novel set in a medieval world where magic comes with a heavy price - the sorcerers extend their lives by killing innocent victims. The story follows Kamala, a woman who discovers how to become a sorcerer, and her moral struggles as she navigates the world of power and magic. The plot is complex, dark, and not gentle reading, touching on themes of survival, sacrifice, and the ambiguous nature of power. The writing style is clear and compelling, with well-drawn characters and a balance between detail and pace that keeps readers engaged.
THE MARKET in Royal Square was always busy, but this day in particular the crowds were so dense that it was hard to get from one end to the other without being jostled nearly to death. Some said it wa...