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Books matching: themes of race and gender

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  1. #1

    Master of Poisons by Andrea Hairston
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    Master of Poisons by Andrea Hairston is a fantasy novel set in an African realm facing ecological devastation, climate change, and social collapse. The narrative follows Djola, the Master of Poisons, and Awa, a Green Sprite, as they embark on a quest to find a cure for the poisoning of the world. The story is a complex blend of strength and weakness, with characters navigating forbidden realms, confronting corrupt systems, and ultimately striving to bring about change through their actions and storytelling.

    The book is praised for its intricate world-building, diverse and complex characters, and the exploration of themes such as race, gender, ecology, and disability. Hairston's writing style is described as both poetic and frantic, with a mix of tender moments and brutal truths that immerse readers in a vividly crafted world filled with rich details and potent prose.


  2. #2

    The Serpent's Shadow - Elemental Masters by Mercedes Lackey
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    'The Serpent's Shadow' by Mercedes Lackey is a historical fantasy novel set in early twentieth-century London, featuring Dr. Maya Witherspoon, a strong and dynamic character of mixed heritage with magical abilities inherited from her parents. The story follows Maya as she navigates societal prejudices, practices medicine, and discovers her own magical powers, all while facing a dark threat from her mother's sister who practices dark magic. As Maya's untutored magic draws the attention of the Elemental Masters in London, she must learn to control her abilities with the help of Water Master Paul Scott, all while dealing with themes of feminism, magic, and historical elements in a unique and engaging narrative.

    Leaden, self-important silence isolated the chiefsurgeon’s office from the clamor of the hospital and the clangor of thestreet outside. A rain-dark day, a dim, chill room filled with cold, heavy,impos...

  3. #3
    Queen Move
    Book 3 in the series:All the King's Men

    Queen Move - All the King's Men by Kennedy Ryan
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    Kennedy Ryan's 'Queen Move' follows the story of Kimba and Ezra, childhood friends who reunite years later and discover a deep, undeniable connection. The book delves into themes of second chance love, sacrifice, and challenges faced in both personal and professional lives. Through Kimba, the author addresses issues of race, gender, culture, family, and religion in a beautiful and thought-provoking manner. Ryan's writing style is described as lyrical, immersive, and powerful, breathing life into characters and crafting a captivating romance narrative that captures the heart of the reader.

    The words come—sudden, unexpected. A greeting my heart offers when there is no one to reply. No one for me to say it to. Friday evenings, once a day of rest, a Sabbath, are now the most restless days ...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series All the King's Men )

  4. #4

    A Caribbean Heiress in Paris - Las Léonas by Adriana Herrera
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    A Caribbean Heiress in Paris is a unique historical romance that takes readers on a journey through different locations such as Paris and Scotland. The book introduces diverse and fleshed out characters, including a strong and independent heroine from the Caribbean and a charming hero from Scotland. The plot revolves around a marriage of convenience between the main characters, Luz Alana and Evan, as they navigate challenges related to their businesses and personal lives. The writing style is described as lush, authentic, and creative, with the author skillfully addressing themes like misogyny, racism, and slavery in a historical setting.


  5. #5

    The Wind Done Gone: A Novel by Alice Randall
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    "The Wind Done Gone" by Alice Randall is a subversion of the classic novel "Gone with the Wind." It offers a missing perspective on the original story, focusing on the relationship between a black female child, Cynara, and her mother, Pallas Mammy. Through diary entries, the novel explores the complex dynamics of race, theft, and ethics in American literature, particularly in the Southern context. The protagonist, Cynara, challenges the traditional portrayals of black female characters in literature, reclaiming her agency and identity in a system skewed against her.

    They called me Cinnamon because I was skinny as a stick and brown. But my name is Cynara. Now when I tell it, I say they called me Cinnamon because I was sweet and spicy. Sweet, hot, strong, and black...

  6. #6

    Jane Steele by Lyndsay Faye
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    In "Jane Steele" by Lyndsay Faye, readers are introduced to Jane Steele, a complex and fascinating character whose life mirrors that of Jane Eyre. However, unlike the original Jane, Jane Steele is a murderess who takes matters into her own hands to right the wrongs she encounters. Set in Victorian England, the book follows Jane as she navigates through hardships, mysterious circumstances, and dangerous situations, all while maintaining a sense of wit and humor. Faye expertly weaves elements of gothic mystery, historical background, and character development into a captivating story that pays homage to the classic novel while adding unique twists and turns.

    The narrative of "Jane Steele" is a dark retelling of Jane Eyre, with a vengeful feminist twist that sets it apart from traditional adaptations. Faye's writing style combines elements of typical Victorian storytelling with modern sensibilities, creating a compelling blend of mystery, wit, culture, and suspense. Through Jane Steele's journey, the book explores themes of justice, resilience, and the complexities of female identity in a time when women faced significant challenges. The novel's engaging plot, well-developed characters, and unexpected plot twists make it a captivating read that offers a fresh perspective on a beloved classic.

    My cousin’s lips were gnawed red, his skin gleaming with exertion and desire. When his fleshy mouth next moved, the merest croak emerged. He breathed precisely five more times, the fat folds of his be...

  7. #7

    The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo
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    'The Night Tiger' by Yangsze Choo is a captivating blend of magical realism, historical fiction, and mystery set in British Malaya during the 1930s. The story follows Ren, a young houseboy on a mission to fulfill his master's dying wish by reuniting his severed finger with his body within 49 days. Alongside Ren, we meet Ji Lin, a determined young woman working to pay off her mother's debts, both of whom become entangled in a web of superstitions, Chinese folklore, and mysterious deaths involving a vengeful tiger. Choo's writing style weaves together elements of Chinese mythology, colonial Malaysia, and intricate character relationships to create a lush and atmospheric narrative filled with suspense and intrigue.

    The old man is dying. Ren can see it in the shallow breaths, the sunken face, and the skin stretched thinly over his cheekbones. Yet he wants the shutters open. Irritably, he beckons the boy over, and...

  8. #8

    The Lover by Marguerite Duras
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    The Lover by Marguerite Duras is a feminist text that explores a young girl's relationship with an older man in French Indo China in the 1930s. Through a mix of autobiography and fiction, the book delves into themes of dominance, sexuality, and societal expectations, challenging traditional gender roles and narrative structures. Duras' writing style is described as poetic, stream-of-consciousness, and fragmented, offering a unique and introspective look into the protagonist's experiences and emotions.

    One day, I was already old, in the entrance of a public place a man came up to me. He introduced himself and said, “I’ve known you for years. Everyone says you were beautiful when you were young, but ...

  9. #9
    The Diviners
    Book 5 in the series:Manawka

    The Diviners - Manawka by Margaret Laurence
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    "The Diviners" by Margaret Laurence is a Canadian novel that delves into the feminist movement of the seventies through the story of Morag Gunn, an independent and powerful character who navigates the societal expectations of her time. The narrative unfolds through a mix of flashbacks, imagined dialogues, and philosophical reflections, painting a vivid picture of Morag's life as she grapples with motherhood, relationships, and personal growth. The book explores themes of love, loneliness, self-identity, and societal barriers, all woven together in Laurence's poetic and disquieting prose.

    Morag's journey from a tragic start in a small Canadian town to becoming a successful writer is intertwined with her relationships, including a lifelong bond with a Metis man named Jules Tonnerre. The novel captures Morag's struggles, triumphs, and reflections on her past, presenting a complex and rich narrative that resonates with readers. Laurence's writing style, though initially challenging for some, gradually immerses the reader in Morag's world, making the characters and their experiences feel incredibly real and compelling.

    The river flowed both ways. The current moved from north to south, but the wind usually came from the south, rippling the bronze-green water in the opposite direction. This apparently impossible contr...

    (Also, see 87 recommendations for the series Manawka )

  10. #10
    Court of Fives
    Book 1 in the series:Court of Fives

    Court of Fives - Court of Fives by Kate Elliott
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    Court of Fives by Kate Elliott follows the story of Jessamy, a strong young woman caught between the worlds of Patrons and Commoners, who secretly trains for the Fives competition to escape societal expectations. The book delves into themes of family, politics, class, racial tensions, and religion in a complex society reminiscent of ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Mayans. The writing style is action-packed, filled with mysticism, forbidden romance, and a compelling examination of race and class identity, set in a Greco-Roman Egypt fantasy world.

    We four sisters are sitting in the courtyard at dusk in what passes for peace in our house. Well-brought-up girls do not fidget nor fume nor ever betray the least impatience or boredom. But it is so h...

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