Books matching: character development criticism
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- #1
Save:'Crystal Empire' by L. Neil Smith is an alternate history novel that explores a world where the Black Plague decimated Europe, allowing Muslim empires to conquer the continent. The story follows Sedrich Sedrichson, a native of a Vinland settlement, as he embarks on a journey to deliver the Caliph's daughter to the emperor of the Crystal Empire in America. The plot is filled with political intrigue, cultural clashes, and the exploration of a world shaped by historical what-ifs. The writing style is engaging, with well-developed characters and a narrative that takes unexpected turns, keeping readers engrossed in this parallel history.
“And he that owneth the house shall come and tell the priest, saying, it seemeth to me there is as it were a plague in the house. Then the priest shall command that they empty the house...that all tha... - #2
Save:A Speedy Death by Gladys Mitchell is a Golden Age mystery set in a country house during a house party where a murder mystery unfolds. The story revolves around Mrs. Bradley, a psychoanalyst and amateur sleuth, who teams up with other guests to investigate the murder of a disguised woman found in the bath. As the plot thickens with twists and turns, Mrs. Bradley's unconventional views on morality and her unique character add depth to the narrative. Despite some eccentricities in the writing style and plot, the book keeps readers engaged with its unexpected and enjoyable ending.
‘If she isn’t on the six-fifteen,’ remarked the younger, larger, more utterly-bored-annoyed-and-anxious young man, ‘I am damned well going back without her. That’s the worst of girls, especially when ... - #3
Save:Directive 51 by John Barnes is a post-apocalyptic novel that delves into the aftermath of a catastrophic event caused by a group called Daybreak. The story follows government functionaries and officials as they navigate through the chaos and destruction to lead recovery efforts and maintain order in a world plunged back into the near Dark Ages due to industrial sabotage and ecoterrorism. The narrative weaves together political power struggles, memetics, and thrilling action sequences, offering a detailed exploration of the collapse of modern civilization and the challenges of rebuilding amidst chaos and uncertainty.
The writing style of Directive 51 is described as intelligent and fast-paced, with a focus on gritty details and intricate world-building. The novel introduces a diverse range of characters and groups with varying beliefs and motivations, adding depth to the storyline. Despite some criticisms regarding character development and pacing, the book is praised for its engaging plot, thought-provoking themes, and the author's ability to tackle complex ideas such as emergent behavior, technological perils, and the continuity of government in a compelling and plausible manner.
All the days of the modern world begin at the International Date Line, in the middle of the Pacific. When it is midnight on the Date Line, the midnight that ended yesterday touches the midnight that b... - #4
Save:...And Ladies of the Club by Helen Hooven Santmyer is a sweeping multi-generational saga that spans decades, focusing on the lives of a small group of women and their families in Ohio from the post-Civil War era to the early 1930s. Central to the story is a women's literary club formed by two main characters, portraying the interactions and challenges faced by women in the community. The novel delves into various themes such as friendship, politics, historical events, and everyday life, offering a detailed insight into the lives of ordinary women during that period.
The book is praised for its intricate character development, vivid portrayal of historical details, and the emotional depth of the storyline. The writing style captures the essence of small-town America, providing a rich tapestry of manners, mores, politics, and personal relationships. Despite its length, readers find themselves engrossed in the lives of the characters and the evolution of the community over the years, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction and women's stories.
- #5
Save:'Abomination' by Gary Whitta is a historical horror fiction set in the dark ages after the fall of the Roman Empire. The story revolves around the discovery of ancient scrolls detailing rituals that transform animals and humans into hideous abominations, leading to death, destruction, and tragedy. The plot involves a chain of events triggered by these rituals, creating a lovecraftian feeling with visceral gore, action, and heartbreaking situations that suck the reader in at every turn. The narrative features two protagonists engaging in yammering dialogues, an unconvincing double cross, and a soft conclusion, keeping readers engaged despite some pacing issues.
Alfred was tired. It had been a long, hard war, and though he had won it, he had barely rested since. He knew that the peace would not last long. For an English king, he had learned, it never did. The... - #6
Save:The End of Eternity by Isaac Asimov is a classic science fiction novel that delves into the concept of time travel and its consequences. The story follows Andrew Harlan, a technician working for Eternity, an organization that manipulates time to create a better future for humanity. As Harlan starts to question the ethics of Eternity's actions, he becomes entangled in a web of desire, betrayal, and redemption. Through a mix of mystery and ethical dilemmas, the novel explores themes of power, control, and the impact of altering the course of history.
ANDREW HARLAN STEPPED into the kettle. Its sides were perfectly round and it fit snugly inside a vertical shaft composed of widely spaced rods that shimmered into an unseeable haze six feet above Harl... - #7
Save:'A Stranger in the House' by Shari Lapena is a psychological thriller that follows the lives of Karen and Tom Krupp, a seemingly happy married couple whose lives take a dark turn when Karen is involved in a car accident that results in temporary amnesia. As the story unfolds, Karen's past is revealed, leading to shocking twists and turns. The plot involves a murder mystery, nosy neighbors, and themes of trust, betrayal, and hidden secrets. The narrative is fast-paced, with short punchy chapters that frequently challenge the reader's assumptions.
The writing style in 'A Stranger in the House' is described as engaging and suspenseful, with a focus on character development and plot twists. The story delves into the complexities of relationships, amnesia, and the blurred lines between truth and deception. The book keeps readers on edge as they navigate through the lives of the characters, trying to unravel the mysteries surrounding Karen's accident and the murder investigation.
ON THIS HOT August night, Tom Krupp parks his car – a leased Lexus – in the driveway of his handsome two-storey home. The house, complete with a two-car garage, is set behind a generous lawn and frame... - #8
Save:Set during the Cold War era, 'The Charm School' by Nelson DeMille follows the story of American CIA agents pitted against the Soviet Union's KGB in a high-stakes battle. The novel revolves around a secret school in Russia where American POWs are held captive and forced to train KGB agents to pass as Americans. The main characters, Col. Hollis and Lisa Rhodes, stumble upon this covert operation and find themselves entangled in a web of espionage and intrigue. Through detailed descriptions of Russia and its political landscape, DeMille paints a vivid picture of the tensions between the two superpowers during this period.
DeMille weaves a gripping narrative filled with suspense, tension, and unexpected twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book offers a unique blend of Cold War espionage, romance, and political intrigue, providing readers with a thrilling and immersive reading experience. Despite some criticisms regarding the character development and pacing, 'The Charm School' is praised for its engaging storytelling, well-researched background, and the author's ability to capture the essence of the era.
Fisher had become impatient with these internal control measures. He felt as if he were making a major border crossing at each town in which he was obliged to stop. He said, "Ex-college student, curre... - #9
Save:'No Name' by Wilkie Collins follows the story of Magdalen Vanstone and her sister Norah, who are left destitute after their parents' death reveals they were born out of wedlock. The plot revolves around Magdalen's passionate quest to restore her and her sister's rightful inheritance, leading her to resort to trickery and deceit. The novel is set in Victorian England and explores themes of illegitimacy, inheritance laws, and the societal constraints placed on women during that era. The writing style is described as suspenseful, with intricate plot twists, well-developed characters, and a focus on moral dilemmas and legal intricacies.
The hands on the hall-clock pointed to half-past six in the morning. The house was a country residence in West Somersetshire, called Combe-Raven. The day was the fourth of March, and the year was eigh... - #10
Save:'Ecotopia' by Ernest Callenbach is set in a future where Northern California and the Pacific Northwest secede from the United States to form an environmentally friendly nation called Ecotopia. The narrative is presented through a combination of official articles and private diary entries, offering dual perspectives on the society. delves into the ecological sound future of Ecotopia, focusing on its decentralized, democratic, and communal society where cars are banned, and walking, bicycles, and high-speed trains are the primary modes of transportation. Despite some criticisms of the writing style and character development, the book is commended for its visionary and influential portrayal of a utopian world.
WESTON’S NEXT ASSIGNMENT: ECOTOPIA The Times-Post is at last able to announce that William Weston, our top international affairs reporter, will spend six weeks in Ecotopia, beginning next week. This u...
