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Books matching: themes of love and prejudice

30 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 30 
  1. #1

    Of Beast and Beauty by Stacey Jay
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    'Of Beast and Beauty' by Stacey Jay is a unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast set in a dystopian world where two conflicting groups, the Smooth Skins and the Monstrous, struggle to coexist on a planet with a curse that could either unite or destroy them. The story follows Princess Isra, a blind queen, and Gem, a Monstrous boy, as they navigate their complex relationship amidst secrets, lies, and societal divides. The book combines elements of science fiction and fantasy, with a mix of romance, folklore, and world-building that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    The narrative of 'Of Beast and Beauty' alternates between beautiful writing that delves into wondrous legends and plain storytelling that focuses on the evolving relationship between Isra and Gem. Readers are taken on a journey filled with plot twists, character development, and a blend of magical and dystopian elements that create a captivating and original retelling of a classic fairy tale. Stacey Jay's writing style immerses readers in a world where nothing is as it seems, exploring themes of prejudice, sacrifice, and the complexities of love in a visually rich and emotionally engaging manner.

    THE city is beautiful tonight. I can tell by the smells drifting through Needle’s open window—the last of the autumn flowers clinging to their stalks, their perfume crisper and cleaner than the summer...

  2. #2

    Maru by Bessie Head
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    'Maru' by Bessie Head is set in the village of Dilepe in Botswana, where racial prejudice and oppression are prevalent. The story follows Margaret Cadmore, a member of the Masarwa tribe, who faces discrimination and challenges as she starts teaching at the local primary school. The plot revolves around the love triangle that forms between Margaret and two men in the village, Maru and Moleka, who are both influential figures in Dilepe. The writing style is described as beautifully written, with light, magical moments scattered throughout the text, providing a rich view of life in Botswana.

    The rains were so late that year. But throughout that hot, dry summer those black storm clouds clung in thick folds of brooding darkness along the low horizon. There seemed to be a secret in their act...

  3. #3

    Beyond The Black Stump by Nevil Shute
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    'Beyond The Black Stump' by Nevil Shute is a book that revolves around a love story between an American geologist, Stan, and a local girl in the Australian Outback. The book provides a vivid description of life in the Outback and a small town in the US, showcasing the contrasts between the two locations. The plot unfolds predictably but engagingly, focusing on the characters' interactions and personal growth rather than high adventure.

    Nevil Shute's writing style in 'Beyond The Black Stump' is characterized by marvellously portrayed characters, subtle storytelling, and a focus on ordinary people rising to unordinary challenges with grace and generosity. The book offers a glimpse into the past, capturing the essence of life in 1950s Australia and the cultural aspects of that era, while also exploring themes of love, prejudice, and humanity.

    A NUMBER of substances that are trapped in the earth’s crust will influence a Geiger counter sufficiently to set it clicking, and one of the feeblest of these influences is oil imprisoned in a salt do...

  4. #4

    Winterwood by Shea Ernshaw
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    'Winterwood' by Shea Ernshaw is a mystical and enchanting story set in the woods of Fir Haven, following Nora Walker, a young girl with a special connection to the forest. The plot unfolds as Nora discovers Oliver Huntsman, a boy who mysteriously survived in the woods during a snowstorm. As Nora delves deeper into Oliver's past and the secrets of her own family, the story takes unexpected twists and turns, blending elements of witchcraft, mystery, and romance. The writing style is described as lyrical, atmospheric, and immersive, creating a magical winter realm that captivates readers until the very end.

    We’d wander up the Black River under a midnight sky, following the constellations above us like a map I could trace with my fingertips—imprints of stardust on my skin. She would hum a melody from deep...

  5. #5

    The Orphan Collector by Ellen Marie Wiseman
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    "The Orphan Collector" by Ellen Marie Wiseman is a historical fiction novel set in Philadelphia during the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic. The story follows Pia, a 13-year-old German immigrant who is left to care for her twin brothers after her mother dies from the flu and her father is away fighting in the war. Pia's brothers are stolen by a bitter and racist woman named Bernice Groves, leading to a harrowing journey of loss, survival, and resilience. The book provides a vivid portrayal of the brutal realities of the pandemic, orphanages run by cruel nuns, and the challenges faced by children in that era.

    The writing style of Ellen Marie Wiseman in "The Orphan Collector" has been described as compelling, disturbing, heart-wrenching, and emotionally stirring. The author effectively captures the historical setting of the Spanish Flu epidemic, making the reader feel the devastation caused to families and children during that time. The novel also incorporates elements of magical realism, adding depth and complexity to the emotional conflict between the characters, particularly Pia and Bernice.

    The deadly virus stole unnoticed through the crowded cobblestone streets of Philadelphia on a sunny September day, unseen and unheard amidst the jubilant chaos of the Liberty Loan parade and the patri...

  6. #6
    Ran Away
    Book 11 in the series:Benjamin January

    Ran Away - Benjamin January by Barbara Hambly
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    'Ran Away' in the 'Benjamin January' series by Barbara Hambly delves into the past of Benjamin January's first wife, Ayasha, exploring their life in Paris before her untimely death. Benjamin, now married to Rose, finds himself drawn back into a mystery when an old acquaintance from Paris, Huseyin Pasha, is accused of a double murder in New Orleans. Despite the suspicions of the townspeople, Benjamin is convinced of Huseyin's innocence and sets out to uncover the truth, all while grappling with his lingering feelings for Ayasha.

    The narrative weaves between Benjamin's past in Paris with Ayasha and his present investigation in New Orleans, blending elements of mystery, historical fiction, and emotional depth. intricately explores Benjamin's relationships, his internal struggles, and the complexities of the vibrant and volatile city of New Orleans in the 1830s, offering a richly detailed and engaging story that keeps readers captivated till the end.


    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Benjamin January )

  7. #7

    If You Come Softly by Jacqueline Woodson
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    'If You Come Softly' by Jacqueline Woodson is a poignant young adult novel that explores the interracial romance between Ellie, a white Jewish girl, and Jeremiah, a black boy, who meet at a prestigious prep school in New York City. The story delves into their blossoming relationship, the challenges they face due to societal prejudices, and the tragic events that unfold, all narrated in a lyrical and sensitive writing style that captures the emotions and struggles of the young protagonists.

    Woodson skillfully weaves together themes of love, race, family dynamics, and societal acceptance in 'If You Come Softly', creating a compelling narrative that resonates with readers. Through the alternating perspectives of Ellie and Jeremiah, the author offers a nuanced exploration of their individual experiences, their deepening connection, and the impact of external pressures on their relationship, resulting in a moving and thought-provoking story that lingers in the hearts of readers.

    JEREMIAH WAS BLACK. HE COULD FEEL IT. THE WAY THE sun pressed down hard and hot on his skin in the summer. Sometimes it felt like he sweated black beads of oil. He felt warm inside his skin, protected...

  8. #8

    Summer of My German Soldier - Summer of My German Soldier by Bette Greene
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    "Summer of My German Soldier" by Bette Greene tells the story of twelve-year-old Jewish girl Patty Bergen living in Arkansas during World War II. Patty befriends Anton, an escaped German POW, and hides him in her garage, risking everything to keep him safe. explores themes of prejudice, friendship, and family dynamics, as Patty navigates her complex relationships with her parents and the community, ultimately leading to a shattering experience that changes her life forever.


  9. #9

    The Constant Rabbit by Jasper Fforde
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    In an alternate UK, an Anthropomorphic Event in 1965 transformed rabbits and other animals into human-sized, speaking beings. The book follows Peter Knox, who works for the Rabbit Compliance Taskforce and is forced to take a stand when a rabbit family moves in next door, leading him to confront his passive stance on the treatment of anthropomorphic rabbits. The story delves into themes of prejudice, nationalism, and political satire, while blending absurd humor with timely social commentary.

    The Constant Rabbit by Jasper Fforde is a satirical fantasy novel that cleverly critiques current events, particularly Brexit and racism, through a compelling plot filled with witty characters. Fforde's writing style combines humor with deep political insights, creating a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

    ‘Still on the Westerns, Baroness Thatcher?’ I asked, moving slowly down the line of volunteers who were standing at readiness outside our library, a smallish mock-mock-Tudor building in the middle of ...

  10. #10

    Never Seduce a Scot - The Montgomerys and Armstrongs by Maya Banks
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    "Never Seduce a Scot" by Maya Banks tells the story of Eveline Armstrong, a deaf heroine who hides her disability from her family and learns to read lips after a riding accident. Forced to marry Graeme Montgomery, the laird of a rival clan, by order of the King to bring peace between the clans, the couple discovers love amidst the challenges they face. The writing style is described as engaging, with a mix of humor, seriousness, and heartwarming moments, making the characters and their relationship come to life in the Scottish Highlands setting.

    Graeme Montgomery stared grimly back at his brother, unable to formulate a response for the growing rage in his chest. The king’s messenger had departed and was even now riding beyond the Montgomery b...

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