Books matching: underdog victory
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- #1
Save:Slick, fast-paced military sci-fi full of twists and classic Zahn intrigue - not super deep, but a fun, popcorn read if you’re in the mood for resistance fighters, secret plots, and a space opera vibe.
The Blackcollar series by Timothy Zahn follows a group of elite soldiers known as Blackcollars who are fighting against the alien conquerors called Ryqril. The story is set in a future where Earth and its colonies have been defeated by the Ryqril, and the resistance movement, including the Blackcollars, is planning a major offensive to regain independence. The narrative is filled with action, Xanatos gambits, counter plots, and martial arts fighting, creating a fast-paced and absorbing read. The writing style is described as descriptive, vivid, and cinematic, painting a clear picture of the futuristic world and engaging the readers with well-written action scenes.
First contact had occurred in early 2370 when a TDE exploration ship stumbled on a Ryqril outpost some two parsecs from the Terran colony world Llano. Within ten years there was regular communication...July 1983•272 pages - #2
Save:A rollicking, imaginative alt-history adventure - fun, fast-paced, and packed with cool ideas, but not without its simplistic characterizations and patriotic sheen. If you can suspend disbelief and want a wild ride through time, this one's worth picking up!
1632 by Eric Flint is an alternative history novel that explores the premise of a small mining town from West Virginia being transported back in time to the midst of the Thirty Years War in Germany. The book delves into the challenges faced by the townspeople as they navigate this new reality, introducing concepts of democracy, religious freedom, and modern technology to a historical setting. The plot follows individual characters as they adapt to their surroundings and make decisions that impact the course of history. The writing style blends elements of military science fiction, alternate history, and fantasy, creating an engaging and action-packed narrative.
Mike ducked, hunched. James Nichols' reaction was more dramatic. "Incoming!" he yelped, flinging himself to the floor and covering his head with his arms. He seemed utterly oblivious to any possible d...2000•605 pages - #3
Save:Raw, riveting, and deeply human - Kokoda is a must-read for anyone interested in Australian history or the untold courage of ordinary people in extraordinary times.
Kokoda by Peter FitzSimons is a compelling historical account of the Australian troops' defense of their homeland against the invading Japanese army during World War II. The book provides a vivid and detailed narrative of the battles fought along the Kokoda Track in New Guinea, showcasing the bravery and endurance of the Australian soldiers against the superior enemy forces. Through personal stories from both sides of the conflict, FitzSimons humanizes the horrifying events of war, shedding light on the emergence of the Australian character and its place in the world during that tumultuous time.
The ancient Japanese culture, once built of wood, bamboo, paper, straw and silk, is today a civilisation built of iron and steel, of factories and machines. Yet even today Japan’s strength rests more...2004•503 pages A riveting, deeply researched account of the struggle for women’s suffrage - both entertaining and enlightening, though not a light read. Perfect for history lovers who appreciate political drama and stories of resilience.
'The Woman's Hour: The Great Fight to Win the Vote' by Elaine F. Weiss is a powerful account of the fight for women's suffrage in the early 20th Century in the USA. The book chronicles the struggles, triumphs, and setbacks faced by women as they fought for their right to vote. Weiss skillfully weaves together historical events, highlighting the bravery and determination of the women who led this movement. The writing style is engaging, keeping readers captivated as they learn about the challenges faced by suffragettes in their quest for equality.
The narrative delves into important historical moments such as the ratification of the 19th Amendment and the role of key figures like Carrie Catt in the suffrage movement. Through detailed accounts of events like the Seneca Falls Convention and the battle for the 19th Amendment in Tennessee, Weiss brings to life the struggles and achievements of women fighting for their rights. The book sheds light on the ongoing fight for equal rights and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who paved the way for future generations of women.
CARRIE CHAPMAN CATT had spent a long night, day, and early evening on trains clattering over a thousand miles of track from New York City to Nashville. In the hours she wasn’t reading field reports an...March 2018•425 pages- #5
Save:A comprehensive, well-organized look at Churchill's extraordinary life - rich in history, insight, and personality. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those seeking to understand one of the 20th century’s great leaders.
'Churchill: A Life' by Martin Gilbert delves into the fascinating political journey of the iconic British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill. Through detailed accounts of Churchill's life and historical context, readers are provided with a comprehensive understanding of the significant moments in his career. is structured in a unique way, with the year and Churchill's age prominently displayed on each page, making it easy for readers to navigate through different periods of his life. The writing style is engaging and informative, offering readers a chance to explore Churchill's eloquence and literary prowess through his own writings and speeches.
It is my aim in these pages to give a full and rounded picture of Churchill’s life, both in its personal and political aspects. His career has been the subject of countless books and essays, in which...January 1967•180 pages - #6
Save:A bloody, fast-paced, and educational ride through one of history's most dramatic battles - perfect for action-minded history fans, but not for the faint-hearted.
Agincourt by Bernard Cornwell is a meticulously researched historical fiction novel set during the reign of Henry V, focusing on the events leading up to the iconic Battle of Agincourt in 1415. The story follows the protagonist, Nicholas Hook, an English archer, as he navigates through the brutal realities of medieval warfare, from the siege of Harfleur to the climactic battle itself. The narrative vividly portrays the horrors of war, the detailed descriptions of battles, and the struggles and triumphs of the characters involved, providing a gripping and immersive reading experience. Cornwell's writing style shines through in his ability to bring to life the historical period, making the reader feel as though they are right in the midst of the action, experiencing the fear, adrenaline, and camaraderie of the battlefield.
The River Aisne swirled slow through a wide valley edged with low wooded hills. It was spring and the new leaves were a startling green. Long weeds swayed in the river where it looped around the city...2008•520 pages A well-researched, vividly told account that combines high-stakes disaster, political intrigue, and the origins of American conservation - though it starts slow, it pays off for anyone interested in history, environment, or epic true drama.
"The Big Burn: Teddy Roosevelt and the Fire That Saved America" by Timothy Egan delves into the historical event of the catastrophic wildfire that occurred in August 1910 in Idaho, Washington, and Montana. The narrative not only focuses on the actual fire but also explores the establishment of the U.S. Forest Service by President Theodore Roosevelt and Gifford Pinchot, shedding light on the conservation movement of the early 20th century. Through vivid storytelling, Egan portrays the harrowing experiences of the forest service rangers and the townspeople who faced the devastating fire, highlighting acts of heroism and the political implications that followed.
FOR TWO DAYS snow had been falling in upstate New York, so it came as a surprise to Gifford Pinchot when he showed up at the executive mansion in Albany and found the second-story windows wide open an...2004•343 pages- #8
Save:Raw, heartfelt, and packed with courage - this is a powerful account of forgotten heroes in a brutal war. If you want real-life valor and history that packs a punch, give it a read.
'Give Me Tomorrow: The Korean War's Greatest Untold Story - The Epic Stand of the Marines of George Company' by Patrick O'Donnell tells the harrowing tale of George Company, a group of Marines under the 1st Marine Division, as they face the brutal realities of the Korean War. From battling Chinese troops in the arctic winter landscape to enduring impossible situations with unwavering determination, the book provides a gripping account of the Marines' struggles and heroism in the face of overwhelming odds. Through vivid descriptions and firsthand narratives, the author sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of history, offering readers a new perspective on the Korean War and the sacrifices made by those who fought in it.
As seen through the eyes of an American marine commando soldier, the book not only highlights the sufferings and bravery of those involved but also serves as a poignant reminder of the tensions that still exist between North and South Korea. With detailed accounts of strategic maneuvers, heroic stands, and heartbreaking losses, 'Give Me Tomorrow' immerses readers in the gripping narrative of George Company's fight for survival and victory amidst the chaos of war. The author's storytelling captures the essence of the Frozen Chosin and the indomitable spirit of the Marines, making this book a compelling and insightful read for those seeking to understand the untold stories of the Korean War.
November 2010•282 pages - #9
Save:A weird, witty, and refreshingly different medieval fantasy - imperfect but bursting with originality, strong women, and rich historical flavor. Just mind the occasional slow patch and copy-edit hiccup!
Armed in Her Fashion by Kate Heartfield is a dark, gritty fantasy set in medieval Europe, particularly in 1328 Bruges. The story follows the protagonist, Margriet de Vos, a feisty widow who demands her rightful inheritance for her daughter, leading to a series of events involving a transgender man-at-arms named Claude, a mysterious hellbeast, and a cast of diverse characters fighting against the powers of Hell and Earth. The writing style is described as evocative, moving, and reminiscent of a Hieronymous Bosch painting brought to life, filled with strange and vivid imagery that tumbles along at a fast pace.
May 2018•352 pages - #10
Save:A must-read for anyone interested in Irish history or classic guerrilla warfare memoirs - passionate, gritty, and unforgettable, though not always easy going.
'Guerilla Days in Ireland' by Tom Barry is a gripping account of the guerilla war fought by the IRA against the British forces during the Irish struggle for independence. details the intense combat experiences of Tom Barry and his fellow fighters, providing a firsthand narrative of the attacks, retreats, and victories of the Southern IRA forces. Through a mix of historical facts and personal insights, the author brings to life the bravery and sacrifices made by Irish farmers, peasants, teachers, and other individuals in their fight against British colonialism.
Tom Barry's writing style in 'Guerilla Days in Ireland' is highly engaging, drawing readers into the tumultuous events of the Irish war of Independence. not only chronicles the military tactics employed by the IRA but also delves into the emotional aspects of the conflict, highlighting the camaraderie among the fighters, the impact of loss on the battlefield, and the complexities of facing a formidable enemy. Readers are taken on a journey through the challenges and triumphs of the Irish struggle for freedom, offering a unique perspective on a significant period in Irish history.
1949•238 pages
