Books matching: character driven historical fiction
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'A God in Ruins' by Kate Atkinson is a companion novel to 'Life After Life' that delves into the life of Teddy Todd, Ursula Todd's brother. The story follows Teddy from his idyllic childhood through his time as a bomber pilot in World War II, marriage, fatherhood, and old age. Atkinson's writing style intricately weaves together Teddy's experiences, jumping back and forth in time while exploring themes of war, family relationships, and the impact of choices on one's life. The narrative unfolds gradually, revealing Teddy's inner struggles, his relationships with his family, and the complexities of postwar Britain.
The book is praised for its poignant portrayal of Teddy's life, the emotional depth of the characters, and the thought-provoking exploration of themes such as the price of war, family dynamics, and the passage of time. Atkinson's storytelling skill shines through in her ability to create a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged as they follow Teddy's journey through different stages of his life, from wartime experiences to the challenges of aging. The novel's surprise ending and the way it ties back to 'Life After Life' adds an additional layer of complexity and depth to the story, leaving readers reflecting on the interconnectedness of lives and the impact of choices.
Beyond the hedge there were bare fields, ploughed over last autumn. He didn’t expect to see the alchemy of spring, to see the dull brown earth change to bright green and then pale gold. A man could co...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Todd Family ) - #2
Save:The Strays by Emily Bitto is a captivating story set in Australia in the 1930s, focusing on young Lily who becomes entangled in the bohemian and artistic Trentham family. The novel explores the dynamics of neglect, glamour, and artistic fervor within the Trentham household, where Lily finds herself immersed in a world of excitement, neglect, and emotional complexities. As Lily navigates her infatuation with the Trenthams, the story unfolds through her perspective, offering a compelling insight into the consequences of seeking acceptance and belonging in unconventional family dynamics.
With vivid and engaging characters, the prose of The Strays is described as almost profound, guiding readers through the tangled garden of Lily and Eva's childhood experiences. The author, Emily Bitto, skillfully weaves a narrative that balances the allure of artistic freedom with the harsh realities of neglect and emotional turmoil, leaving room for reflection and contemplation on themes of friendship, acceptance, and the impact of one's choices on others.
I ONCE READ THAT the heart’s magnetic field radiates up to five metres from the body, so that whenever we are within this range of another person our hearts are interacting. The body’s silent communic... - #3
Save:Hilary Mantel has written a very long book about the French Revolution, focusing on the Great Terror. The story follows three main protagonists - Danton, Robespierre, and Desmoulins, along with a myriad of other characters, capturing the complexities and intricacies of the era. The narrative delves into the internal struggles of the Revolutionaries, torn between impending invasion by outside forces and the potential for civil war within their own ranks.
NOW THAT THE DUST has settled, we can begin to look at our situation. Now that the last red tile has been laid on the roof of the New House, now that the marriage contract is four years old. The town ... - #4
Save:'Too Loud a Solitude' by Bohumil Hrabal is a short novel set in Czechoslovakia, following the life of Hašek, an operator of a book compacting press. Hašek spends his days rescuing books from the press, reading them, and reflecting on literature and philosophy. The book delves into themes of solitude, labor, censorship, and the power of written words, all wrapped in a blend of humor, melancholy, and existential musings. Through a poetic and tragicomic narration, the story unfolds with vivid imagery, capturing the protagonist's struggles in a society where the value of books is diminishing.
The novel portrays Hašek's journey of self-discovery and resistance against the mindless efficiency of socialism, as he finds solace in the books he rescues and the art he creates from compressed paper. Hrabal's writing style is described as engaging, filled with rich imagery, and multi-layered with philosophical reflections. The narrative touches on themes of oppression, resilience, and the transformative power of literature, offering a poignant exploration of the human condition in a totalitarian society.
For thirty-five years now I've been in wastepaper, and it's my love story. For thirty-five years I've been compacting wastepaper and books, smearing myself with letters until I've come to look like my... - #5
Save:"Augustus" by John Williams is an epistolary novel that offers a unique and intimate portrait of the Roman Emperor Augustus. Through fictional letters and journal entries, the novel delves into Augustus' rise to power, his relationships with friends and enemies, and the political maneuverings that shaped the Roman Empire during his reign. The writing style is praised for its historical accuracy and detailed exploration of Augustus' personal life, providing a rich and immersive reading experience for those interested in ancient Roman history.
. . . I was with him at Actium, when the sword struck fire from metal, and the blood of soldiers was awash on deck and stained the blue Ionian Sea, and the javelin whistled in the air, and the burning... - #6
Save:William Gold, a cook's boy dreaming of becoming a knight, navigates a world of intrigue, betrayal, and greed in the 14th century as depicted in 'The Ill-Made Knight' by Christian Cameron. The book offers a realistic portrayal of medieval knighthood, with fantastic battle scenes and historical accuracy. Through the protagonist's journey from boyhood to his early twenties, the story delves into themes of chivalry, violence, faith, and the struggle to balance ideals with the harsh reality of war.
Basinet– A form of helmet that evolved during the late middle ages, the basinet was a helmet that came down to the nape of the neck everywhere but over the face, which was left unprotected. It was alm... - #7
Save:Sword at Sunset by Rosemary Sutcliff is a realistic account of King Arthur's life, devoid of magic and myths, focusing on the politics of tribal infighting and Saxon depredations in post-Roman Britain. The narrative follows Artos as a Roman British leader fighting against Saxon invaders, showcasing battles, soldiers camping, alliances, and betrayals in a realpolitik version of Arthur's story. The book provides a detailed and historical perspective on Arthur's life, loves, and politics, making it a unique and engaging retelling of the Arthurian legend.
NOW that the moon is near to full, the branch of an apple tree casts its nighttime shadow in through the high window across the wall beside my bed. This place is full of apple trees, and half of them ... - #8
Save:'One Love Is Enough' in the Catherine series by Juliette Benzoni is a historical romance novel set during the war between France and Burgundy in the 14th century. The story follows the heroine Catherine Legoix and her love for the dashing Knight Arnaud de Montsalvy. Readers are introduced to a world full of romance and history, with unforgettable characters and strong character development. The writing style is described as engaging, with a blend of action, romance, and historical events that keep readers captivated.
- #9
Save:An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris is a historical fiction novel that retells the infamous Dreyfus Affair in late 19th-century France. The story is narrated from the perspective of Colonel Georges Picquart, who becomes convinced of the innocence of Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish officer wrongly accused of espionage. As Picquart delves deeper into the case, he uncovers corruption and deceit within the French military leadership, leading to a gripping tale of betrayal, injustice, and the pursuit of truth. The author skillfully weaves together historical events with fictional elements to create a compelling narrative that sheds light on the themes of anti-Semitism, government corruption, and the power of individuals to challenge authority.
The writing style of An Officer and a Spy is praised for its ability to capture the tension and drama of the unfolding events, making the historical story feel immediate and engaging. Readers appreciate the meticulous research done by Harris, which brings to life the complexities of the Dreyfus Affair and the political climate of the time. Through the character of Picquart, the novel explores themes of justice, morality, and the consequences of speaking truth to power, making it a thought-provoking and enlightening read.
The sentry on the rue Saint-Dominique steps out of his box to open the gate and I run through a whirl of snow across the windy courtyard into the warm lobby of the hôtel de Brienne, where a sleek youn... - #10
Save:Legs by William Kennedy is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life of notorious gangster Jack 'Legs' Diamond during the prohibition era. The book provides a nuanced and complex portrayal of Diamond, showcasing his rise to power, his relationships with his wife and mistress, and his ultimate downfall. Through the eyes of various characters, including Diamond's lawyer and confidante, the novel explores the myth and reality of Legs Diamond, painting a vivid picture of the gangster's flamboyant lifestyle and the turbulent times in which he lived.
The narrative style of Legs is described as fast-paced, with a focus on dialogue that captures the tone of the prohibition era. The storytelling weaves between past and present, offering insights into Diamond's relationships, motivations, and the societal perceptions of gangsters during that time. William Kennedy's writing immerses readers in the world of 1920s Albany, presenting a blend of fact and fiction that humanizes a figure known primarily for his criminal activities and flashy lifestyle.
