Books matching: character introductions
100 result(s)
- #1
Phule's Company by Robert Lynn Asprin is a lighthearted take on the military sci-fi genre, following a ragtag company of aliens and misfit humans lead by a trust fund kid with lofty ambitions. The story revolves around newly minted Captain Jester, a.k.a. Willard Phule, who finds himself in command of a group of rejects and no-goodniks on a backwater planet, Haskin's Planet. Despite the initial challenges, Phule sets out to turn this ragtag group into an effective and cohesive unit, with a humorous and tongue-in-cheek writing style that introduces quirky characters and incorporates Asprin's typical humor.
Some have commented that the executive mind tends to expand work to fill, or overfill, available time. While I will not attempt to comment on the overall accuracy of this statement, it was certainly t... - #2The Cardinal's BladesBook 1 in the series:The Cardinal's Blades
'The Cardinal's Blades' is a swashbuckling novel set in an alternate 17th century France where dragons and Musketeers coexist. The plot revolves around Cardinal Richelieu's elite group of fighters, the Blades, as they are reactivated to thwart a plot against France. The story is filled with political intrigue, daring swordfights, and a complex web of alliances and betrayals. The writing style is reminiscent of Alexandre Dumas, with a focus on detailed descriptions and a large cast of characters that gradually come together for a thrilling mission.
Captain Étienne-Louis de La Fargue stood in silence before the grave. Legs slightly apart, he held his hat in both hands in front of him. He was staring down at the grey stone cross. But what did he a... - #3The BeginningBook 1 in the series:Steele Ridge
The beginning of 'Steele Ridge' introduces readers to the Steele family, consisting of four brothers, two sisters, and their mother. The prequel sets the stage for the series by showcasing the close bond between the brothers who have left their hometown to pursue their goals but eventually return. The story unfolds quickly, introducing readers to the brothers and the women who will form romantic relationships with them, while hinting at intriguing family secrets and dynamics.
The fast-paced narrative, filled with humor and action, leaves readers wanting more as they delve into the lives of characters like Micki Steele, the brothers, and their love interests. Despite some initial confusion due to the multitude of characters introduced, the prequel entices readers with a glimpse into the Steele family's world and sets the foundation for the upcoming series.
- #4
'Mandibles' by Jeff Strand is a fast-paced horror novel featuring giant mutated fire ants terrorizing a city. The story follows different characters trapped in various situations, such as a dentist office and a convenience store robbery, as they try to survive the deadly ant attacks. The book is described as a creature feature filled with zany characters, descriptive scenes of carnage, and a touch of humor. Readers praise the high body count, surprise twists, and the author's ability to make unlikable characters somewhat likable.
The plot of 'Mandibles' revolves around a mass invasion of fire ants that have been bio-engineered to giant size, causing chaos and panic in a small town. The narrative is mainly presented from the perspectives of three different parties, all desperately trying to escape the relentless attacks of the hostile insects. Despite the absurdity of the giant ants premise, the book provides entertainment through its 80s B-movie feel, humorous elements, and suspenseful scenes of characters trying to outsmart the deadly creatures.
In her six years as a dental assistant, Roberta Alten had encountered some of the nastiest breath imaginable. Breath that made your nostrils burn and your eyes water. But this … this went beyond simpl... - #5
'Introductions' in the series 'The Ghost Bird' by C.L. Stone is a young adult novel that introduces the main character, Sang, a girl with a traumatic home life, who meets a group of nine mysterious boys from a secret academy. As Sang navigates her new friendships with Kota, Victor, Silas, Gabriel, Luke, North, Nathan, Mr. Blackbourne, and Dr. Green, she uncovers secrets and mysteries surrounding the boys. The plot revolves around Sang's interactions with each boy, the development of their relationships, and the slow burn tension that builds up as the story progresses. The writing style is characterized by a focus on character introductions, subtle hints at a larger underlying plot, and a mix of romance, mystery, and adventure elements.
Rain puddled at my feet, soaking the dirt of a thousand walks into my off-brand tennis shoes. I usually enjoyed the rain. I liked the feel of walking barefoot in puddles in the grass and the smell of ... - #6
In 'The Ghost Wore Yellow Socks' by Josh Lanyon, the story kicks off with Perry discovering a dead body in his bathtub, leading to a murder mystery in an old boarding house setting. As the plot unfolds, a budding romance develops between Perry, an asthmatic painter librarian, and Nick, an ex-Navy SEAL. The book balances elements of suspense, humor, and heart, while exploring the dynamics between the quirky tenants and the historical home they inhabit.
Perry, who had just spent the most painful and humiliating twenty-four hours of his life, and had driven over an hour from the airport in blinding rain to reach the relative peace and privacy of the c... - #7
'Arrivals' in the series 'Tremontaine' by Ellen Kushner is a rich and detailed return to Kushner's world and characters, capturing moments while hinting at the vast complex weave of her world. The story introduces the Duchess Tremontaine, Micah, a farmhand with a unique ability with numbers, and Ixcaab, a swordswoman, as they all converge in the same city, setting the stage for intricate political intrigue and complex character dynamics. The serialized format of the book allows for easy consumption of the story, with well-developed characters and diverse perspectives adding depth to the narrative.
- #8
Not Yet by Laura Ward follows the journey of Landon and Emma, who meet during a summer working as lifeguards. Initially, Emma finds Landon to be a bit arrogant, but as they get to know each other, a deeper connection forms. However, their budding relationship is tested when secrets come to light, leading to heartbreak and the need for second chances. The book is praised for its emotional rollercoaster, character development, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged until the end.
The story delves into themes of love, trust, sacrifice, and personal growth, portraying the complexities of relationships and the impact of past experiences on individuals. As Landon and Emma navigate their feelings and confront their vulnerabilities, they learn valuable lessons about patience, understanding, and the true meaning of love.
TIGHTENING THE THIN rubber strap that reached around the back of my head, I adjusted my goggles and stretched my arms, palms up and fingers interlocked, to the sky. I rolled my neck and shook my legs,... - #9
"The Initiation" in the series "The Secret Circle" by L.J. Smith follows the story of Cassie, a teenage girl who moves to New Salem and finds herself entangled in a world of witchcraft and high school drama. The plot revolves around Cassie's struggles to fit in, make friends, and navigate the complexities of her newfound magical abilities. The writing style is fast-paced, engaging, and filled with elements of mystery, romance, and friendship, keeping readers hooked on the characters and the unfolding action.
The book had also warned against hiking out on narrow peninsulas because high tide could come along and strand you. But just at this moment Cassie would have given anything to be stranded on some peni... - #10
'England's Perfect Hero' by Suzanne Enoch is a Regency romance novel that follows the story of Robert Carroway, a wounded war hero suffering from PTSD, and Lucinda Barrett, who is on a mission to reform and wed a suitable nobleman. The book explores Robert's journey of healing and overcoming his trauma, as well as Lucinda's internal conflict between following her heart and her mind. The plot includes elements of friendship, romance, family dynamics, and a touch of intrigue, all set in the backdrop of Regency London. The writing style is described as emotional, realistic, and engaging, with well-developed characters and a gradual, patient development of the love story between the main characters.
"I know," Evie replied, "but I only intended on delivering lessons to a scoundrel. And now I've ended up married to him." With a scowl she rose, striding toward Lucinda's refuge and back again. "I mea...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Lessons in Love )