Books matching: ambition
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- #1
'To Die For' by Joyce Maynard is a darkly humorous and engaging tale that delves into the narcissistic ambitions of Suzanne Moretto, a woman obsessed with achieving television fame at any cost. The story is narrated through multiple perspectives, offering a unique and intriguing insight into Suzanne's manipulative ways and the tragic events that unfold as a result. The plot revolves around Suzanne's ruthless pursuit of her goals, leading to a murder orchestrated by her through seduction and manipulation of a naive teenage boy.
The writing style of 'To Die For' is noted for its multiple narrator format, with each chapter presenting the story from a different character's viewpoint. This technique gradually unveils the layers of deceit, ambition, and tragedy that drive the narrative forward, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover the full extent of Suzanne's manipulations and their consequences.
JUST TO GIVE YOU an idea of Susie. What a go-getter she was, right from the start. I can remember back when we lived on Sunrise Lane, her standing in front of the mirror, giving weather reports. She c... - #2
Gold Diggers by Sanjena Sathian is a unique and imaginative novel that delves into the cultural challenges faced by Indian immigrants in the U.S. The story follows Neil Narayan, a second-generation teenager, as he navigates the expectations of his family and community while grappling with his own ambitions and desires. Through a blend of magical realism, historical fiction, and romance, the author captures Neil's angst and humorously pokes fun at desi stereotypes. The narrative explores themes of cultural identity, ambition, and the clash between traditional practices and American culture, all intertwined with a mysterious alchemical potion made from stolen gold.
The plot of Gold Diggers unfolds through two timelines, showcasing Neil's struggles during his high school years in Atlanta and his graduate years in San Francisco. The story touches on themes of self-exploration, love, and the challenges of blending into a new country while retaining one's identity and traditions. With engaging characters, soulful writing, and moments of magical realism, the book offers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of immigrant experiences, cultural shifts, and the pursuit of ambition.
When I was younger, I consisted of little but my parents’ ambitions for who I was to become. But by the end of ninth grade, all I wanted for myself was a date to the Spring Fling dance. A hot one. The... - #3
Lost Illusions by Honore de Balzac follows the journey of Lucien Chardon, a talented but naive poet, who aspires to make a name for himself in the glamorous world of Paris. Through a series of betrayals, ambitions, and tragedies, the novel explores the systematic destruction of illusions in characters striving for success in art and business. Balzac's writing style captures the harsh realities of society in the 19th century, where talent often succumbs to money, intrigue, and unscrupulousness.
It was your birthright to be, like a Rafael or a Pitt, a great poet at an age when other men are children; it was your fate, the fate of Chateaubriand and of every man of genius, to struggle against j... - #4
'A Time to Be Born' by Dawn Powell is a novel set in the 1940s that revolves around the lives of two main female characters, Vicky Haven and Amanda Keeler. Vicky, a country girl, arrives in the big city to meet Amanda, who is portrayed as a scheming and manipulative woman married to a powerful man. The story delves into their complex relationship, centered around a man they both have an attachment to, as Vicky tries to establish herself in the city while navigating the challenges posed by Amanda's actions. The book is praised for its sharp wit, biting satire, and modern writing style that still resonates with readers today.
This was certainly no time for Vicky Haven to engage your thoughts, for you were concerned with great nations, with war itself. This was a time when the true signs of war were the lavish plumage of th... - #5
A Ladder to the Sky by John Boyne follows the manipulative and ambitious protagonist, Maurice Swift, as he navigates the world of literature by plagiarizing others' stories to achieve fame and success. The novel delves into Swift's morally questionable actions, his lack of empathy, and his relentless pursuit of becoming a renowned writer. Through multiple narrators, the story spans over 30 years, offering insights into the publishing industry and the dark side of ambition and manipulation. Boyne's writing style is described as engrossing, with a seamless flow that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
From the moment I accepted the invitation, I was nervous about returning to Germany. It had been so many years since I’d last been there, after all, that it was difficult to know what memories might b... - #6
Necessary People by Anna Pitoniak is a gripping novel that delves into the complex dynamics of female friendships, ambition, and toxic relationships. The story follows Violet and Stella, two best friends with contrasting backgrounds and personalities, as their friendship is tested by jealousy, ambition, and manipulation. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride through the world of cable news networks, showcasing the dark side of ambition and the consequences of coveting what others have. The author, Anna Pitoniak, skillfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns, making it a compelling and captivating read.
One of the older boys who lived in a shabby off-campus house had managed to capture Stella’s attention. When Stella needed rescuing from these situations, from these men who couldn’t resist monopolizi... - #7
'The Red and the Black' by Stendhal follows the story of Julien Sorel, a young ambitious Frenchman from a humble background, navigating the complexities of post-Napoleonic French society. The novel delves into themes of social climbing, love, ambition, and hypocrisy, portraying the capriciousness and changing hearts of its characters. Stendhal's writing style is described as sharp, dark satire with a touch of droll humor, reflecting the history and societal tensions of the time.
THE small town of Verrières may be regarded as one of the prettiest in the Franche-Comté. Its white houses with their steeply pitched roofs of red tile are spread over a hillside where clumps of sturd... - #8
Marjorie Morningstar is a novel by Herman Wouk that follows the story of Marjorie, a middle-class Jewish girl who aspires to become an actress. The plot revolves around her first love, Noel Airman, a charming but unreliable man, and their tumultuous relationship over the years. Set mainly in the 1930s, the book delves into Marjorie's struggles, ambitions, and relationships, providing a glimpse into her coming-of-age journey. The writing style includes philosophical monologues, witty dialogues, and detailed character development, capturing the essence of New York City prior to World War II.
Marjorie’s mother looked in on her sleeping daughter at half past ten of a Sunday morning with feelings of puzzlement and dread. She disapproved of everything she saw. She disapproved of the expensive... - #9
The Egyptologist by Arthur Phillips is a mysterious and intriguing novel set in the 1920s in Egypt. The story follows an eccentric Egyptologist, Ralph Trilipush, who is on a quest to uncover a fabled tomb, similar to Howard Carter's discovery of King Tut's tomb. Through letters, journals, and various characters' perspectives, the reader navigates a narrative filled with unreliable narrators, archeological exploration, and a blend of fact and fantasy. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged as they unravel the layers of deception and uncover the truth behind the characters' motivations and actions.
The book's writing style is praised for its use of multiple viewpoints, including letters, journal entries, and maps, which create a rapid pace, good character development, humor, and action. The narrative structure adds depth to the story, allowing readers to piece together the mysteries alongside the characters. With elements of archeology, murder, and complex characters, The Egyptologist offers a unique reading experience that blends historical accuracy with imaginative storytelling, keeping readers enthralled until the surprising and satisfying conclusion.
Your father and I are heading home tomorrow, back to you—the luxurious riverboat north to Cairo, a night at that city’s Hotel of the Sphinx, then by rail to Alexandria, and from there we have booked v... - #10
'All the King's Men' by Robert Penn Warren is a novel set in the 1930s American South that follows the rise and fall of Willie Stark, a character resembling Louisiana Governor Huey Long. The story is narrated by Jack Burden, Stark's right-hand man, and delves into the political machinery and corruption existing during that era. The book intertwines Stark's political career with Burden's life story and philosophical reflections, showcasing the complexities of power, morality, and human nature.
The novel is praised for its richly drawn characters, particularly Willie Stark and Jack Burden, and the exploration of moral dilemmas and ethical choices faced by the protagonists. The writing style is described as lyrical, poetic, and compelling, with rhythmic patterns that add a sensual appeal to the narrative. The plot weaves together themes of power, corruption, redemption, and the search for truth, creating a multi-layered and thought-provoking story.
The last time I saw Mason City I went up there in that big black Cadillac with the Boss and the gang, and we burned up that new concrete slab, and it was a long time ago–nearly three years, for it is ...