Books matching: suspense and engagement
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- #1
Save:An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris is a historical fiction novel that retells the infamous Dreyfus Affair in late 19th-century France. The story is narrated from the perspective of Colonel Georges Picquart, who becomes convinced of the innocence of Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish officer wrongly accused of espionage. As Picquart delves deeper into the case, he uncovers corruption and deceit within the French military leadership, leading to a gripping tale of betrayal, injustice, and the pursuit of truth. The author skillfully weaves together historical events with fictional elements to create a compelling narrative that sheds light on the themes of anti-Semitism, government corruption, and the power of individuals to challenge authority.
The writing style of An Officer and a Spy is praised for its ability to capture the tension and drama of the unfolding events, making the historical story feel immediate and engaging. Readers appreciate the meticulous research done by Harris, which brings to life the complexities of the Dreyfus Affair and the political climate of the time. Through the character of Picquart, the novel explores themes of justice, morality, and the consequences of speaking truth to power, making it a thought-provoking and enlightening read.
The sentry on the rue Saint-Dominique steps out of his box to open the gate and I run through a whirl of snow across the windy courtyard into the warm lobby of the hôtel de Brienne, where a sleek youn... - #2
Save:"Munich" by Robert Harris is a historical thriller set during the Munich Conference of 1938, focusing on the events leading up to the agreement signed by Chamberlain and Hitler. The story follows the perspectives of two men who were once friends at Oxford, now involved in diplomatic services, as they navigate the tense negotiations and intrigue surrounding the peace efforts in Munich. Despite the well-known historical outcome, the author masterfully builds tension and suspense, offering a gripping portrayal of the heightened political climate of the time.
Shortly before one o’clock on the afternoon of Tuesday 27 September 1938, Mr Hugh Legat of His Majesty’s Diplomatic Service was shown to his table beside one of the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Rit... - #3
Save:City of Windows by Robert Pobi is a thrilling novel featuring a unique lead character, Dr. Lucas Page, a former FBI agent with exceptional problem-solving skills due to his mathematical expertise. The book follows Page as he reluctantly teams up with a no-nonsense special agent to track down a rogue sniper terrorizing New York City. The plot is complex and exciting, with well-developed characters and a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. Pobi's writing style is described as flawless, sly, original, and creative, filled with humor and sly references, enhancing the overall storytelling.
Nimi Olsen made the mistake of trying to cross Forty-second half a block before the intersection and missed the light. She was now stranded on the spine of frozen slush that snaked down the middle of ... - #4
Save:In 'November Road' by Lou Berney, the novel follows the intertwining paths of Frank Guidry, a New Orleans mobster on the run after the Kennedy assassination, and Charlotte, a young mother escaping her alcoholic husband with her two daughters. As they cross paths, a story of suspense, crime, and unexpected connections unfolds against the backdrop of the 1960s. The writing style is praised for its clear prose, strong characters, and thrilling plot that keeps readers on edge, making it a standout crime novel with elements of romance and historical context.
Frank Guidry paused at the corner of Toulouse to bask in the neon furnace glow. He’d lived in New Orleans the better part of his thirty-seven years on earth, but the dirty glitter and sizzle of the Fr... - #5
Save:The novel 'The Aerodrome' by Rex Warner follows the protagonist Roy as he navigates between the contrasting worlds of The Village and the Aerodrome. The story delves into themes of authoritarianism, love, and the clash between tradition and progress. Roy is drawn to the orderliness of the Air Force and the charismatic Air Vice Marshal, leading to a conflict between the Aerodrome's sterile image and the vibrant yet flawed community of The Village. As Roy becomes entangled in the power struggles between the two worlds, he grapples with questions of identity, loyalty, and the consequences of seeking control and efficiency at the expense of freedom.
The narrative style of 'The Aerodrome' is described as a compelling allegory, blending elements of dystopia, romance, and humor. The story unfolds with mystery and intrigue, exploring the allure of totalitarian ideologies like fascism and the disillusionment that follows. Warner's clear prose set against the backdrop of the English countryside builds towards a threatening climax, offering a critique of state fascism that is deemed clearer than Orwell's '1984'. The novel presents a cautionary tale warning against the dangers of totalitarian governments while ending on a note that balances tradition, technical progress, and hopes for the future.
IT WOULD BE difficult to overestimate the importance to me of the events which had taken place previous to the hour (it was shortly after ten o'clock in the evening) when I was lying in the marsh near... - #6
Save:Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak tells the story of a mischievous boy named Max who, after being sent to his room without dinner, embarks on an imaginative adventure to where the wild things are. In this fantastical world, Max becomes the king of the wild things and enjoys the thrill of being in charge, but ultimately realizes that he longs for the comfort of home. The book beautifully captures the theme of a child's boundless imagination and the importance of feeling loved and secure.
The plot of the book unfolds as Max's room transforms into a jungle and he sails off to the land of the wild things, where he experiences fun and excitement but also feelings of loneliness and the desire to return home. Maurice Sendak's writing style, paired with captivating illustrations, brings to life Max's wild journey and conveys the message of the power of imagination and the warmth of being cherished, making it a timeless tale loved by both children and adults.
- #7
Save:'The Chosen One' by Carol Lynch Williams is a gripping novel that delves into the life of Kyra, a thirteen-year-old girl living in a polygamist cult called The Chosen Ones. Kyra is faced with the horrifying prospect of being forced to marry her 60-year-old uncle, a decision that goes against everything she believes in. As Kyra navigates the oppressive rules and abuse within the cult, she finds solace in her forbidden love for a boy named Joshua and her secret visits to the mobile library. The book skillfully portrays Kyra's internal struggle, her defiance against the cult's leader, and the difficult choices she must make to protect herself and her freedom.
I kick the toe of my sneaker into the desert sand. Even this late in the evening, with the sun sinking over my shoulder, the ground is leftover hot from the day. I can feel the heat through the soles ... - #8
Save:Ace of Shades by Amanda Foody is a gripping YA fantasy novel set in the dark and mysterious city of New Reynes, known as the City of Sin. The story follows Enne, a determined young woman searching for her missing mother, and Levi, a charismatic gang leader caught up in dangerous schemes. The intricate world-building, complex magical systems, and intricate politics of the city create a rich backdrop for the characters' journeys of self-discovery and transformation. Foody's writing style weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and fantasy, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they uncover the secrets of The Shadow Game.
For the first time in fifteen days, Enne stepped onto dry land. Her balance veered from side to side as if she expected the gray cobblestones to tilt like the sea, and she white-knuckled the pier’s ra... - #9
Save:In 'What She Knew' by Gilly Macmillan, the story revolves around Rachel Jenner and her eight-year-old son, Ben, who goes missing while they are in a Bristol park. The book alternates between Rachel's point of view and that of DI Jim Clemo, the investigator handling the case. As the plot unfolds, the emotional turmoil of having a missing child is vividly portrayed, along with the impact on both the family and the investigators involved. The narrative delves into the complexities of the investigation, the media frenzy surrounding the case, and the societal judgment faced by the mother, creating a gripping portrayal of a parent's worst nightmare.
I’ve thought about this a lot since my son, Ben, went missing, and every time I think about it, it also begs the question: if we’re not who we imagine we are, then is anybody else? If there’s so much ... - #10
Save:'Tonight You're Dead' by Viveca Sten follows Detective Thomas Andreasson as he investigates a series of murders connected to a Swedish naval training camp from 30 years ago. The plot unfolds in two timelines, the 70s and present day events, with a thrilling criminal development leading to an unexpected end. The narrative skillfully combines elements of mystery, romance, and historical events, creating a captivating and emotionally engaging story.
(Also, see 32 recommendations for the series Sandhamn )
