Books matching: themes of religion and politics
23 result(s)
- #1
Save:In Great Waters by Kit Whitfield is an alternate history novel set in an alternative Europe where mermaids, referred to as 'deepsmen', play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape. The story follows Anne, a royal family member who must navigate the complex dynamics between humans and deepsmen to maintain peace. The narrative switches between different perspectives, offering a unique exploration of themes such as religion, politics, and societal norms in a world where deepsmen are integral to the power dynamics.
The book is praised for its immersive world-building and intricate plot, blending elements of fantasy and historical fiction seamlessly. Kit Whitfield's writing style is described as unsentimental yet engaging, with a focus on character development and exploring the complexities of relationships between humans and deepsmen.
HENRY COULD REMEMBER the moment of his birth. Crushing pressure, heat, and then the contact with the sea, terrifyingly cold—but at the same time a release from constriction, the instant freedom of the... - #2
Save:'The Naked God' by Peter F. Hamilton is the final volume in the Night's Dawn trilogy, a space opera on a grand scale. The book explores themes of religion, politics, government, social stratification, and the threat of possession by souls returning from the beyond. The story is intricate, thought out, and brilliant, revealing all secrets and bringing the Kiint alien race into the spotlight. However, some readers found the book overly long with too many characters and plot threads, leading to a somewhat unsatisfying and predictable ending.
Jay Hilton was sound asleep when every electrophorescent strip in the paediatric ward sprang up to full intensity. The simple dream of her mother broke apart like a stained-glass statue shattered by a...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Night's Dawn ) - #3
Save:The novel 'Voyage to Alpha Centauri' by Michael D. O'Brien follows the journey of a group of individuals aboard the Kosmos, a space vessel, on a mission to Alpha Centauri. The story is narrated by physicist Neil de Hoyos, who unveils a future Earth under strong central government surveillance. As the travelers explore a new planet, they encounter a sinister legacy left by an ancient civilization, leading to a series of shocking events. The book delves into themes of truth, privacy, religious freedom, and the clash of worldviews, offering a thought-provoking narrative that challenges societal norms and beliefs.
O'Brien intricately weaves together profound reflections on human nature, science, morality, and spirituality throughout the novel. The story is rich in detail, from the futuristic technology aboard the ship to the intricate relationships among the diverse group of characters. With elements of mystery and realism, 'Voyage to Alpha Centauri' presents a compelling narrative that prompts readers to contemplate the complexities of the human heart and the consequences of societal control.
- #4
Save:'Skinny Legs and All' by Tom Robbins is a whimsical and thought-provoking tale that delves into various topics such as politics, religion, mythology, and sexuality. The story follows a diverse cast of characters, both human and inanimate objects, as they navigate through themes of love, life, and the Middle East conflict. Robbins weaves together elements of humor, absurdity, and philosophical musings, creating a narrative that is both complex and entertaining.
Through Robbins' unique writing style, readers are taken on a wild ride filled with acerbic wit, quirky characters, and profound insights. The novel explores the human condition, asking important questions about philosophy, religion, art, and family, all while maintaining a sense of humor and charm. With a mix of humor, sarcasm, eroticism, and history, 'Skinny Legs and All' offers a small yet impactful storyline that leaves a lasting impression on readers.
The turkey lay upon its back, as roast turkeys will; submissive, agreeable, volunteering its breast to the carving blade, its roly-poly legs cocked in a stiff but jaunty position, as if it might summo... - #5
Save:'The Isle of Glass' by Judith Tarr is a historical fantasy set during the reign of Richard the Lionheart, following the journey of Brother Alfred 'Alf', a monk with a mysterious past. Alf, who appears eternally youthful despite his age, is sent on a mission by the Abbot to warn King Richard of impending war. Along the way, Alf discovers his true identity as one of the Fair Folk and navigates a world beyond the confines of his monastery. The plot weaves together elements of magic, religion, politics, and personal growth, creating a rich and engaging narrative that blends reality and fantasy seamlessly.
The writing style of Judith Tarr in 'The Isle of Glass' has been praised for its depth and accuracy in depicting the Medieval world, while incorporating a unique protagonist who is both an elf and a religious figure. The story delves into themes of identity, relationships, and personal journey, offering readers a thought-provoking and emotionally intense narrative that is both captivating and rewarding.
It was meant to be a whisper, but it echoed through thelibrary. Brother Alfred looked up from his book, smiling a little as the novicehalted panting within an inch of the table. “What is it now, Jehan... - #6
Save:'Born on a Tuesday' by Elnathan John delves into the harrowing realities faced by children in war zones, particularly in Nigeria, where religious extremism has taken a stronghold. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Dantala, readers are exposed to the struggles of the almajiri and the corruption that plagues Nigerian society. The narrative provides a fast-paced insight into modern Islam, showcasing how innocence can be tainted by external circumstances beyond one's control. skillfully navigates through themes of terrorism, religious confrontation, and the everyday violence that characterizes life in Northern Nigeria.
The boys who sleep under the kuka tree in Bayan Layi like to boast about the people they have killed. I never join in because I have never killed a man. Banda has, but he doesn’t like to talk about it... - #7
Save:Courtship Rite by Donald Kingsbury is a science fiction novel set on the human colony world of Geta. The story follows a family of three half brothers and their wives as they navigate the societal norms of a world where cannibalism is common and accepted. The plot revolves around the brothers' participation in the Courtship Rite, where they attempt to marry a woman from a coastal clan who challenges traditional beliefs. The book delves into themes of religion, politics, social engineering, and philosophy, all woven together by the author's skillful writing style.
PRIME PREDICTOR TAE RAN-KAIEL was long dead but he lived in the bellies of his aggressive progeny. Even the youngest of them had shared his flesh at a Funeral Feast still remembered in clan chant arou... - #8
Save:Winterbirth by Brian Ruckley is a fantasy novel set in a world where gods created four races, leading to a history of genocide and betrayal among them. The story follows a clan on the brink of extinction, amidst a prophecy foretelling the return of the gods. The book is described as having a slow-paced plot with elements of blood and mud medieval storytelling, focusing on the struggles between humans, elves, and half-elves who can wield magic.
There are rites and rituals sunk so deeply into the fabric of a race that their roots are long forgotten. In the northern lands, where the fierce cycle of the seasons rules life with a snow-bound fist... - #9
Save:'A Dance of Cloaks' in the series 'Shadowdance' by David Dalglish follows the story of Aaron, the son of Thren Felhorn, the ruthless leader of a Thieves' Guild in the city of Veldaren. As Aaron is groomed to inherit his father's position, he grapples with the desire to break free from his father's shadow and forge his own path. The narrative is filled with intricate struggles between different factions, complex character dynamics, and a brewing war between the thieves' guilds and the powerful Trifect families. The writing style is described as fast-paced, tightly controlled, and character-driven, with elements of dark fantasy and strong world-building.
Aaron sat alone. The walls were bare wood. The floor had no carpet. There were no windows and only a single door, locked and barred from the outside. The silence was heavy, broken only by his occasion... - #10
Save:Corpus Chrome, Inc. by S. Craig Zahler is a science fiction novel set in Earth's near future, where humans' brains are transplanted into new chromium mannequins to extend life indefinitely. The story follows three main characters - a garbageman, a music producer, and a lawyer - who are connected by developments at Corpus Chrome, Inc., a company that resurrects the dead. As the company decides to bring back a convicted murderer at the request of a dying woman, chaos ensues, intertwining themes of religion, politics, terrorism, and ethical dilemmas.
The author, S. Craig Zahler, skillfully weaves together different story elements, creating a saga that explores the consequences of avoiding death and the complexities of life after resurrection. Through vivid characters, thought-provoking dialogue, and a tightly plotted narrative, Zahler delivers a compelling blend of humor, action, romance, and suspense, making Corpus Chrome, Inc. an original and engaging science fiction read.
