Books matching: chaotic landscape
62 result(s)
- #1
Save:In "Ariel" by Steven R. Boyett, readers are taken on a post-apocalyptic journey where modern technology ceases to function and magic takes its place. The story follows Pete, a young survivor who forms an unlikely bond with a talking unicorn named Ariel. Together, they embark on an adventure filled with mythical creatures, challenges, and a quest to confront a powerful enemy in New York City. The book combines elements of urban fantasy with coming-of-age themes, offering a unique and imaginative take on a changed world where the rules of reality have been altered.
The plot of "Ariel" unfolds in a world where chaos reigns, mythical beasts roam the land, and the remaining human population struggles to adapt to the new magical reality. Through Pete's journey with Ariel, readers are immersed in a tale of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery as they navigate through a landscape filled with danger, adventure, and unexpected twists. Boyett's writing style blends elements of fantasy, post-apocalyptic settings, and character-driven storytelling to create a captivating narrative that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds that can form in the face of adversity.
The water was cool and clear; the pollution had vanished years ago. I’m young, but I can remember the times before the Change when the filthy water would catch fire by itself. Now, though, I could lea... - #2
Save:The Drowned Cities by Paolo Bacigalupi is set in a future dystopian world where rising sea levels have flooded Washington DC, leading to faction politics escalating into all-out war. The story follows characters like Mahlia and Mouse, young war refugees struggling to survive amidst violence and chaos. The plot delves into themes of survival, loyalty, and the harsh reality of a brutal civil war, featuring bioengineered creatures, child soldiers, and the struggle for hope in a bleak environment.
The reek of urine from the latrines and the miasma of sweat and fear twined with the sweet stench of rotting straw. Water dripped, trickling down ancient marble work, blackening what was once fine wit...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Ship Breaker ) - #3
Save:"City of Light" in the series "Outcast" by Keri Arthur is set in a futuristic earth a few hundred years after a war between shifters and humans. The novel follows Tiger, a genetically engineered dechet created during the war, who now navigates a world filled with shifters, vampires, and otherworldly creatures. The story unfolds as Tiger, with her unique powers and a mysterious past, gets involved in solving the disappearance of children, revealing a complex world of post-war politics and supernatural threats.
The writing style of "City of Light" is praised for its world-building, character development, and unique take on familiar urban fantasy elements. Keri Arthur creates a dark and haunting atmosphere, introducing readers to a dystopian world where humans, shifters, and vampires coexist after a devastating war. The narrative is fast-paced, engaging, and filled with unexpected twists, making it a captivating read for fans of urban fantasy and supernatural fiction.
I stretched the kinks out of my bones, then glanced at the old metal clock on the far wall to confirm what I instinctively knew. It was barely six p.m., so night hadn’t fallen yet. The ghosts were wel... - #4
Save:'The Lurkers' by Kristopher Rufty is a horror novel that follows a group of characters facing two kinds of monsters - Amy's abusive ex and the inhuman lurkers. The story is described as having a creepy, early Stephen King flow with great character building, gory scenes, and a fast-paced narrative reminiscent of classic horror writers like Richard Laymon. The plot unfolds with a trip into Haunchie territory, introducing intriguing monsters and a mix of gore and suspense that keeps readers entertained.
- #5
Save:Night Soldiers by Alan Furst follows the journey of Khristo Stoianev, a young Bulgarian who is recruited into the NKVD Soviet secret intelligence service after his brother is killed by local fascists. The story spans from 1934 to 1945, covering Khristo's training, operations in the Spanish Civil War, escape to France, and involvement in guerrilla operations with the French underground. Furst's writing style is described as atmospheric, with detailed geographical research and well-developed characters that bring the historical setting to life.
His brother was fifteen, no more than a blameless fool with a big mouth, and in calmer days his foolishness would have been accommodated in the usual ways—a slap in the face for humiliation, a few col... - #6
Save:"The War in the Air" by H.G. Wells is a novel written in 1908 that presents a gloomy and accurate picture of modern aerial warfare. The plot follows Bert Smallways, a hapless character who finds himself embroiled in a global conflict involving airships, technological advancements, and the devastation of cities. The writing style combines elements of speculative fiction, social commentary, and satirical humor to explore themes of war, technology, and the impact of conflict on society.
- #7
Save:'Birdsong: A Novel of Love and War' by Sebastian Faulks is a gripping tale that spans multiple generations, focusing on the life of Stephen Wraysford before and during World War I. The novel intricately weaves together elements of romance, war, and family history, portraying the intense pre-war love affair of Stephen and the horrors he faces in the trenches during the war. Faulks skillfully brings to life the emotional struggles, heartbreak, and endurance of the characters against the backdrop of a devastating war, with vivid descriptions that evoke strong emotions in the readers.
The narrative of 'Birdsong' shifts between different time periods, exploring the interconnected lives of Stephen Wraysford and his granddaughter Elizabeth as they navigate love, loss, and the impact of war on their lives. Faulks expertly delves into the complexities of human emotions, the brutality of trench warfare, and the lasting effects of historical events, creating a powerful and poignant story that resonates with readers long after they have turned the final page.
The boulevard du Cange was a broad, quiet street that marked the eastern flank of the city of Amiens. The wagons that rolled in from Lille and Arras to the north drove directly into the tanneries and ... - #8
Save:'Out of the Ashes' in the series 'Ashes' by William W. Johnstone is a post-apocalyptic tale set in a world where a web of double-crosses during an attempted coup of America leads to a nuclear and biological war between China, Russia, and the US. The story follows the aftermath of this devastating war, where a new country called the Tri States emerges, founded by Ben Raines, a 44-year-old writer and former mercenary. explores themes of government control, social systems, and libertarian conservative ideologies amidst a world decimated by war.
The writing style of 'Out of the Ashes' is described as thought-provoking, entertaining, and at times, graphic. The author, William W. Johnstone, presents a world filled with contradictions, political ramblings, and a mix of Christian moralizing with graphic descriptions of violence, rape, and murder. delves into complex societal issues, such as government control, race relations, and the concept of freedom, all set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world.
My name is Charlie Morecraft, and once upon a time, I used to work for Exxon. I worked for them for nearly thirty years off and on. And I’m not just talking about sitting in some corner office somewhe... - #9
Save:'Demon Ember' in the series 'Resurrection Chronicles' by Becca Vincenza, M.J. Haag is a post-apocalyptic novel set in a world where an apocalypse breaks out with tremors and the appearance of strange dog-like creatures. The story follows Maya, a college student, as she navigates through the chaos, including zombie hordes and encountering a mysterious creature named Drav. The plot unfolds with a mix of suspense, dread, and action, providing a thrilling and engaging read for the audience.
The writing style of 'Demon Ember' is a blend of detailed descriptions, repetitive elements, and a mix of engaging and disappointing characterizations. introduces a world filled with unique creatures and a post-apocalyptic setting, offering a mix of suspenseful moments and predictable plotlines. The characters, especially Maya and Drav, undergo development throughout the story, with Maya's choices and actions driving the narrative forward.
I spun in my chair to look at her. Our desks occupied a corner of our dorm room just outside the shared bathroom. Not the ideal location, but it freed up the space under our loft beds for a couch an... - #10
Save:In Minimum Wage Magic, Opal Yong-ae, a Cleaner in the Detroit Free Zone (DFZ), finds herself in a desperate situation as she struggles to repay a massive debt while living in hiding. Despite her magical abilities, she works as a Cleaner bidding on apartments to make money. When she stumbles upon a mysterious spell and a dead body in one of the units, she embarks on a risky journey to solve the mystery and find a magical treasure. Teaming up with another Cleaner, Nik, Opal navigates the lawless and ever-changing world of DFZ, facing mercenaries, unexpected allies, and betrayals along the way.
The book blends urban fantasy with elements of near-future science fiction, creating a world where gods, dragons, magic, and cyborgs coexist in a contemporary setting. The story follows Opal's quest for survival and freedom in a city that is alive and constantly shifting, offering a unique backdrop for a fast-paced and engaging adventure.
It was in a sub-subbasement, twenty feet below street level down a wobbly flight of metal stairs so steep they were practically a ladder. The light at the bottom was burned out, of course, so the land...
