Books matching: dark narratives
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Whitechapel Gods' by S.M. Peters is a dark and gritty steampunk novel that delves into a world where the sun is blotted out, creating a grim and nihilistic setting. The story follows a cast of intriguing characters dealing with epic and chaotic mythos, blending elements of magic or science in a unique and original way. Despite some flaws in grammar and detail, the book offers a journey filled with vivid imagery and high concepts more akin to H.P. Lovecraft than traditional steampunk.
The patient writhed and struggled in the bed, fighting a pain that distorted his features into something less than human. He was a comrade named Tor Kyrre, though Bailey could barely recognise him. Sp... - #2
Save:The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden is a gripping story centered on Sydney Shaw, a 34-year-old woman navigating the treacherous waters of dating in New York City. After a series of disastrous encounters, she finds herself smitten with Tom, a charming doctor who seems too good to be true. However, as a string of murders linked to previous romantic partners comes to light, Sydney's happiness is overshadowed by growing suspicions about her new boyfriend. The fast-paced plot brims with unexpected twists, keeping readers on their toes right until the end.
- #3
Save:Anno Dracula: The Bloody Red Baron is the second novel in the Anno Dracula series by Kim Newman. The book continues the alternate historical narrative where vampires openly coexist with humans. Set during World War I, the story delves into the war-torn era with vampires fighting on both sides. The plot revolves around Graf von Dracula, who is the military commander in chief of Germany, and Charles Beauregard, a human adversary trying to thwart Dracula's sinister plans. The writing style of Kim Newman seamlessly blends real historical events with fictional characters, creating a dark and compelling narrative filled with horror and humor.
Four miles from the lines, heavy guns sounded as a constant rumble. Cakes of frozen snow gleamed vaguely in the pitted black road. The fall was days old. Bundled in his trench-coat and a useless tarta...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Anno Dracula ) - #4
Save:'The Transmigration of Bodies' by Yuri Herrera is a modern noir tale that captivates readers from the start with its dark and violent narrative. The story follows The Redeemer, a freelance problem solver, as he navigates a city plagued by disease and violence, trying to arrange an exchange of kidnapped children between two rival crime families. The writing style is precise and unusual, with blatant descriptions of desire and ravaged streets, and female characters written with dynamism and agency. The book's brief length allows for a quick yet satisfying discovery of the bodies mentioned in the title, all wrapped in an atmosphere of noirish darkness and moody characters.
A scurvy thirst awoke him and he got up to get a glass of water, but the tap was dry and all that trickled out was a thin stream of dank air. Eyeing the third of mezcal on the table with venom, he got... - #5
Save:MARTians by Blythe Woolston is a dark and enthralling dystopian novel that delves into a society driven by wasteful consumption and economic depression. The story follows Zoe Zindleman, a young girl who is thrust into adulthood prematurely and begins working at a big box store. Through Zoe's eyes, readers witness a world filled with societal commentary, plucky humor, and complex characters struggling against the backdrop of a consumer-driven society. The narrative offers a glimpse into a future where people blindly trust big corporations, while Zoe's encounters with Timmer lead her to question her perception of reality.
It isn’t Ms. Brody’s fault. She’s a good teacher. She switches channels at appropriate moments, tases students who need tasing — zizzz-ZAAPPP! — and she only once got stuck in the garbage can beside h... - #6
Save:Spiderlight by Adrian Tchaikovsky follows a group of heroes on a quest to confront the Dark Lord, but as the story unfolds, it delves into themes of morality, ethics, and the complexities of human nature. The book challenges traditional fantasy tropes by exploring the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters, particularly in their interactions with an unconventional spider character named Enth. Tchaikovsky's writing style mixes dark and humorous tones, creating a narrative that is both adventurous and thought-provoking.
THE WORDS THAT TWANGED and thrummed their way to Nth said, New food coming, and he stirred, resettling his legs to take the measure of the message: how far, what direction, who originated it. Mother’s... - #7
Save:'Vicious Hearts' by Jagger Cole in the 'Dark Hearts' series follows the story of Cillian, the head of the Kildare family, an Irish Mob in NYC. He is described as a certified psychopath who takes care of his family and is good at hiding his true emotions. When Una, a troubled young woman with a tragic past, tries to go against Cillian, she finds herself drawn into a dark and twisted relationship with him. The plot revolves around their dark and intense dynamic, filled with revenge, steamy scenes, and unexpected revelations. The author, Jagger Cole, weaves a tale of family loyalties, suspense, and deep wounds, all while exploring themes of love, protection, and healing.
(Also, see 45 recommendations for the series Dark Hearts ) 'I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down: Collected Stories' by William Gay is a collection of Southern Gothic short stories that delve into dark and disturbing elements while painting vivid depictions of characters in Tennessee. The stories are filled with broken relationships, haunted characters, and atmospheric backcountry scenery, showcasing Gay's lyrical and poetic writing style. The plots feel like they are taken from old blues songs, with a touch of melancholy and a hint of Southern Gothic flair.
WHEN THE TAXICAB let old man Meecham out in the dusty roadbed by his mailbox the first thing he noticed was that someone was living in his house. There was a woman hanging out wash on the clothesline ...- #9
Save:'Thus Were Their Faces' by Silvina Ocampo is a collection of strange and fantastical stories that blur the lines between dream and reality. Ocampo's writing style is described as haunting, modern fables filled with magic and surrealism, while also exploring down-to-earth themes of love, death, and human nature. The stories in the book refuse to adhere to conventional writing norms, creating a barely coherent dreamworld where anything out of the ordinary can happen.
IT WAS suffocatingly hot. I reached Constitution Station at four. The books tucked into the straps of the suitcase made the suitcase even heavier. I stopped to finish a strawberry ice-cream cone next ... - #10
Save:'Hollow City' is the second installment in the 'Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children' series by Ransom Riggs. The story follows Jacob and the group of peculiar children on a mission to save their caretaker, Miss Peregrine, who is trapped in the form of a bird and unable to change back into a human. As they travel from Wales to London, they face dangers from wights and hollowgasts who seek to harness the special powers of peculiars. The narrative is filled with adventures, peculiar animals, new characters, and twists that keep the readers engaged. is known for its fast-paced plot, unique rules of the peculiar loops, and the incorporation of eerie old photographs that add depth to the story.
Our boats slid easily through the waves, three abreast, a friendly current bearing us coastward. We rowed in shifts, taking turns at the oars to stave off exhaustion, though I felt so strong that for ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children )
