Books matching: wwii backdrop
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:A Fire Sparkling by Julianne MacLean is a multigenerational saga set during World War II, following the story of Vivian Hughes and her granddaughter Gillian Gibbons. The plot unfolds through a dual narration time hop between the late 1930s and early 1940s in WWII England and present-day United States. As Gillian delves into her grandmother's past, she unravels mysteries and secrets that lead to unexpected truths. The book beautifully weaves together love, sacrifice, betrayal, and resilience, capturing the essence of life during wartime with vivid descriptions and intricate storytelling.
It had been years since I’d set foot in my grandmother’s attic. The last time was probably before Mom died, when I still considered it an adventure to climb the creaky stairs with Grampa Jack and make... - #2
Save:Tatiana and Alexander, the second book in 'The Bronze Horseman' series by Paullina Simons, continues the epic love story of Tatiana and Alexander set against the backdrop of World War II. The novel follows the enduring love and hope of the protagonists, Tatiana and Alexander, who are separated by war and circumstances beyond their control. The story unfolds with intense emotions, detailed battle scenes, and a narrative that alternates between the characters' past and present, providing insight into their struggles, sacrifices, and unwavering love for each other. Simons' writing style captures the historical setting with vivid descriptions, emotional depth, and a poignant portrayal of the characters' journey through heartbreak, longing, and resilience.
IN THE DARK EVENING, in a small fishing village that had been turned into Red Army headquarters for the Neva operation of the Leningrad front, a wounded man lay in a military hospital waiting for deat...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Bronze Horseman ) - #3
Save:'Delta Green' by Dennis Detwiller is a collection of short stories and a novel that delve into the world of Delta Green, a modern adaptation of Call of Cthulhu. The book explores themes of espionage, Lovecraftian horror, supernatural powers, and the Cthulhu Mythos. The stories feature a variety of characters facing off against otherworldly threats, often with fatalistic tones and unexpected twists. The writing style varies among the authors, with some stories focusing on the history of Delta Green and its ties to Lovecraft's works, while others introduce new elements to the setting.
- #4
Save:The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult is a powerful and emotional novel that weaves together the lives of Sage, a baker and granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, Josef, a former SS officer seeking forgiveness, and Minka, Sage's grandmother who is a Holocaust survivor. Through multiple timelines and perspectives, the book explores themes of forgiveness, justice, moral dilemmas, and the impact of the Holocaust on individuals' lives. The writing style is described as gripping, heart-wrenching, and thought-provoking, with intricate storytelling that keeps readers engaged until the very end.
It’s just past 3:00 p.m., and most of us are still filling our paper cups with bad coffee. I’ve brought a plate of baked goods—last week, Stuart told me that the reason he keeps coming to Helping Hand... - #5
Save:'Auschwitz' by Laurence Rees provides a detailed and harrowing account of the infamous concentration camp, offering insights into the Holocaust and the atrocities committed within its walls. Through first-hand testimonies and thorough research, Rees delves into the origins and operations of Auschwitz, shedding light on the warped Nazi ideology that led to the systematic genocide of millions. The author's writing style is described as factual yet sensitively written, presenting a compelling and engaging narrative that explores the complexities of human behavior in the face of unimaginable horror.
On April 30, 1940, SS Hauptsturmführer (Captain) Rudolf Höss achieved a great ambition. At the age of thirty-nine, and after six years’ service in the SS, he had been appointed commandant of one of th... - #6
Save:'Jacob Have I Loved' by Katherine Paterson is a story revolving around twin sisters, Sara Louise and Caroline, growing up on a Chesapeake Bay island in the 1940s. Sara Louise feels overshadowed by her beautiful and talented sister, Caroline, leading to feelings of jealousy and resentment. The book delves into themes of sibling rivalry, self-discovery, and finding one's place in the world, all narrated from Sara Louise's perspective. The plot explores the challenges Sara Louise faces in defining her identity separate from her sister's shadow, with vivid descriptions of island life and the emotional turmoil she experiences.
The writing style in 'Jacob Have I Loved' is praised for its detailed world-building, compelling storytelling, and relatable portrayal of complex family dynamics. The book captures the emotional journey of Sara Louise as she navigates through feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, and eventually, self-acceptance. Through Sara Louise's narrative, readers witness her growth, struggles, and ultimate realization of her worth, making it a poignant coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of a unique island community.
During the summer of 1941, every weekday morning at the top of the tide, McCall Purnell and I would board my skiff and go progging for crab. Call and I were right smart crabbers, and we could always c... - #7
Save:"The Prince of Mist" by Carlos Ruiz Zafon is a young adult novel set during World War II in a small coastal town. The story follows Max Carver, a 13-year-old boy, who moves with his family to escape the war. Upon moving into a mysterious beach house, Max and his siblings encounter supernatural elements, including a garden full of eerie statues and encounters with the Prince of the Mist. The plot unfolds as they befriend a local boy named Roland and delve into the town's dark secrets, leading to a chilling and suspenseful coming-of-age tale. The writing style is described as engaging, suspenseful, and at times, dreamlike, with a focus on building a captivating atmosphere and developing strong character relationships.
That night Max didn’t sleep a wink. While the rest of the family slept, he lay awake, dreading the dawn when he would have to say good-bye to the small universe he had built for himself over the years... The Avignon Quintet by Lawrence Durrell is a complex and multi-layered narrative that follows a group of interconnected characters as they navigate love, loss, and mystery in the South of France. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives and timelines, blending fiction with reality seamlessly. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the characters face personal and historical challenges that shape their destinies. Durrell's writing style is characterized by rich descriptions, intricate storytelling, and a deep exploration of philosophical and existential themes.
The late traveller was myself, Bruce, and the journey was none of my choosing. The telegram which had summoned me southward from Prague was suitably laconic. It told me of the suicide of my oldest and...- #9
Save:'The Lion and the Unicorn' by George Orwell is a perceptive interpretation of the British national character. Orwell critiques English society, highlighting the inability of private capitalism to meet societal needs without a profit motive. The author delves into the flaws of the British ruling class, the socialist ideology, and the challenges faced by the working class. Orwell presents a blend of acute insight and naivety, exploring the complexities of democracy, socialism, and the political landscape during the uncertain days of 1941.
- #10
Save:'Oracles of Delphi Keep' by Victoria Laurie is a thrilling adventure novel set in 1938 at an orphanage located in the White Cliffs of Dover. The story follows the lives of orphans, particularly Theodosia Fields, who hold the key to unraveling a prophecy written by an oracle three thousand years ago. As the children, along with a team of adults, embark on a treasure hunt and discover a time portal near the Keep, they are faced with paranormal occurrences, danger, and the looming threat of World War II. The book masterfully weaves together mystery, fantasy, and historical elements, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
The writing style of Victoria Laurie in 'Oracles of Delphi Keep' has been described as enchanting, engaging, and reminiscent of classic British adventure stories. The author skillfully creates a world where innocence meets darkness, where prophecies and magic intertwine, and where the characters, both children and adults, embark on a quest to protect the world from impending danger. Laurie's storytelling captures the imagination of readers of all ages, transporting them to a world filled with suspense, charm, and fantastical ideas.
