Books matching: dark humor in historical fiction
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- #1
Save:Comedy in a Minor Key by Hans Keilson, translated by Damion Searls, is a poignant novel set during World War II that follows a young Dutch couple, Wim and Marie, who hide a Jewish man named Nico in their house. The story delves into the complexities of deception, dependency, and moral dilemmas faced by the characters as they navigate the dangers of Nazi-occupied territory. The narrative weaves between the present, where Nico has died, and flashbacks to the time they spent together, showcasing everyday accidents, brief embarrassments, and unexpected encounters in the midst of a wartime backdrop.
The book explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the resilience of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. Through the characters of Wim and Marie, the author paints a portrait of unsung heroes who risk their lives to do what they believe is right, despite the looming threat of persecution and the harsh realities of war. Keilson's writing style masterfully captures the tension and fear of living under Nazi rule, while also highlighting moments of humor and humanity amidst the darkness of the time.
“There they are again,” the doctor said suddenly, and he stood up. Unexpectedly, like his words, the noise of the approaching airplane motors slipped into the silence of the death chamber. He tilted h... - #2
Save:Set in 15th century Holland, "The Folly of the World" by Jesse Bullington follows the journey of a disenfranchised son, Jan, who is separated from his fortune due to class customs and a great flood. Teaming up with a psychotic henchman, Sander, and a poor sea diver, Jan embarks on a quest to reclaim his wealth amidst civil strife. The novel blends historical knowledge with elements of violence, graphic sex, the supernatural, and dark humor, creating a compelling narrative that delves into Dutch politics of the time.
The story unfolds in a late Middle Ages Renaissance setting with magical elements, where a fiesty teenage shellfish gatherer, a psychotic henchman, and his ruthless gay lover navigate a freshly flooded Holland. As the trio navigates through financial and political intrigue, the narrative explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the pursuit of fortune in a world rife with violence and deception.
A hush fell over the dingy, cramped tavern. Such an occurrence was not particularly rare, requiring little more than a dirty joke, even a bewhiskered one, but quiet the place did, and the handsome str... - #3
Save:In "Jane Steele" by Lyndsay Faye, readers are introduced to Jane Steele, a complex and fascinating character whose life mirrors that of Jane Eyre. However, unlike the original Jane, Jane Steele is a murderess who takes matters into her own hands to right the wrongs she encounters. Set in Victorian England, the book follows Jane as she navigates through hardships, mysterious circumstances, and dangerous situations, all while maintaining a sense of wit and humor. Faye expertly weaves elements of gothic mystery, historical background, and character development into a captivating story that pays homage to the classic novel while adding unique twists and turns.
The narrative of "Jane Steele" is a dark retelling of Jane Eyre, with a vengeful feminist twist that sets it apart from traditional adaptations. Faye's writing style combines elements of typical Victorian storytelling with modern sensibilities, creating a compelling blend of mystery, wit, culture, and suspense. Through Jane Steele's journey, the book explores themes of justice, resilience, and the complexities of female identity in a time when women faced significant challenges. The novel's engaging plot, well-developed characters, and unexpected plot twists make it a captivating read that offers a fresh perspective on a beloved classic.
My cousin’s lips were gnawed red, his skin gleaming with exertion and desire. When his fleshy mouth next moved, the merest croak emerged. He breathed precisely five more times, the fat folds of his be... - #4
Save:A Case of Exploding Mangoes by Mohammed Hanif is a fictionalized tale surrounding the mysterious plane crash that killed General Zia ul Haq, the military dictator of Pakistan, in 1988. Through a satirical and humorous narrative, the book delves into the political instability of the era, General Zia's personality, and the various assassination plots aimed at him. The story is filled with dark humor, intertwining multiple subplots and characters to create a thrilling and insightful journey through the complexities of power dynamics and conspiracy in Pakistan during the late 80s.
The novel is narrated by Under Officer Ali Shigri, who seeks revenge for the alleged suicide of his father, a high-ranking Officer, by plotting to kill General Zia. As the story unfolds, the reader is exposed to the intricacies of espionage, military ambition, and the blurred lines between fact and fiction. Hanif's writing style blends elements of black comedy, political thriller, and historical fiction to provide a unique perspective on the events leading up to General Zia's demise, offering a satirical yet poignant commentary on the injustices and complexities of Pakistani society.
There is something about these bloody squadron leaders that makes them think that if they lock you up in a cell, put their stinking mouth to your ear and shout something about your mother they can fin... - #5
Save:'The Tin Drum' by Gunter Grass is a novel that follows the life of Oskar, a young boy who decides to stop growing at the age of three. Set in Germany during WWII, the story is narrated by Oskar from a mental hospital bed, where he recounts his bizarre and tumultuous life. The book delves into themes of war, German history, unreliable narration, and the impact of societal and personal turmoil on the protagonist's life.
Grass employs a unique writing style in 'The Tin Drum,' blending elements of magical realism, social satire, and dark humor. The narrative switches between first and third person, with occasional reminders of Oskar's unreliability as a narrator. The novel is filled with allegories, metaphors, and symbolic imagery, creating a complex and multi-layered story that explores the human condition amidst the backdrop of WWII Germany.
GRANTED: I AM an inmate of a mental hospital; my keeper is watching me, he never lets me out of his sight; there’s a peephole in the door, and my keeper’s eye is the shade of brown that can never see ... - #6
Save:'A Far Cry from Kensington' by Muriel Spark is a witty and humorous novel set in 1950s London, focusing on the life of Mrs. Hawkins, a confident and opinionated editor working in the publishing industry. The story unfolds in a rooming house in Kensington, where Mrs. Hawkins interacts with a diverse group of residents, facing mundane yet intriguing adventures. The plot revolves around Mrs. Hawkins' feud with the detestable writer Hector Bartlett, which leads to unexpected consequences for everyone involved. Spark's writing style is conversational and engaging, capturing the atmosphere of post-war Britain with sharp details and subtle humor.
So great was the noise during the day that I used to lie awake at night listening to the silence. Eventually, I fell asleep contented, filled with soundlessness, but while I was awake I enjoyed the ex... - #7
Save:"The Mangle Street Murders" is a humorous Victorian murder mystery set in London, featuring the unconventional detective duo of Sidney Grice and March Middleton. Grice, a misanthropic and arrogant detective, is paired with March, a clever and strong-willed young woman, as they investigate a brutal murder case involving multiple suspects. The story unfolds in late Victorian London, filled with dark humor, vivid descriptions of the city, and a mix of light-hearted moments and gritty details.
The narrative style of the book combines elements of traditional whodunits with a modern twist, offering a parody of classic detective stories like Sherlock Holmes. The characters, especially Grice and March, are complex and flawed, adding depth to the plot as they navigate through a series of murders and mysteries in a Victorian setting filled with intrigue and tension.
George Carpenter, the old gamekeeper, drove me with his ancient donkey, Onion, struggling up Parbold Hill and skittering down the other side so hesitantly that I feared we might miss the train, but we... One Hundred Saturdays: Stella Levi and the Search for a Lost World by Michael Frank explores the life of Stella Levi, a survivor of the Holocaust. The book revolves around Stella's early years in the vibrant Jewish community in Rhodes, known as the Juderia, up until the harrowing experiences she faced during and after World War II. Frank presents a delicate and respectful account of her life, highlighting the customs and the culture of a Jewish community that faced unimaginable hardships. The narrative deeply reflects on themes of memory, resilience, and the haunting legacies of trauma.
The writing style is beautifully evocative, interweaving personal interviews with historical context. Michael Frank's empathetic approach allows readers to really connect with Stella's experiences, even as they grapple with her painful memories. The book is filled with gentle humor and moments of warmth, which offer some solace amidst darker themes. The illustrations by Maira Kalman enhance the storytelling, providing a poignant visual representation of Stella's world. Overall, this memoir serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring spirit of those who have faced the worst of humanity.
- #9
Save:Rootwork by Tracy Cross is a captivating blend of historical fiction and horror, set in the late 1800s Louisiana. The plot follows three sisters who spend a transformative summer with their aunt, a hoodoo practitioner. As they navigate family dynamics and personal growth, they uncover deeper truths intertwined with their heritage, leading to moments of heartbreak and revelation. The storytelling is immersive, evoking strong sensory details that transport readers to the period, making the horror elements both relatable and sinister.
Cross's writing style is rich and evocative, marked by a heavy Southern dialect that enhances the authenticity of the setting. The characters are well-developed, displaying complex motivations and relationships that keep readers engaged. The blend of humor, dark themes, and the exploration of racial issues adds depth to the narrative. Overall, Rootwork is a beautifully crafted tale of sisters bonding and discovering their roots while facing the eerie and the unknown.
- #10
Save:"The Quincunx" by Charles Palliser is a sprawling Victorian-style mystery novel set in 19th century London. The story follows young John Huffman as he navigates a complex web of secrets, coincidences, and revelations while trying to uncover his family history and potentially claim his inheritance. The plot is intricate and convoluted, with rich period details seamlessly woven into the narrative, making it a highly absorbing read that keeps the reader engaged till the end.
Palliser's writing style has been compared to that of Charles Dickens, with meticulous attention to detail and evocative descriptions of London and its inhabitants. The novel is dense, detailed, and rewarding, offering readers a glimpse into the hard life of the time, from hidden secrets and family mysteries to encounters with both high and low society in the bustling city of London.
It must have been late autumn of that year, and probably it was towards dusk for the sake of being less conspicuous. And yet a meeting between two professional gentlemen representing the chief branche...
