Books matching: dark traditions
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- #1
Lute by Jennifer Thorne is a captivating folk horror story set on the British Isle of Lute, where the ruling family, including Nina and Lord Treadway, are trapped by the island's mysterious hold over its inhabitants. The novel delves into themes of loss, grief, relationships, and the price of life, as Nina fights to protect her family and home amidst supernatural forces and a looming horror that unfolds every seven years on the Day.
- #2
In the book "Those Across the River" by Christopher Buehlman, a Northern couple moves to a small Southern town in the 1930s and encounters eerie and mysterious occurrences related to the woods across the river. As they uncover the dark secrets of the town and its inhabitants, they become entangled in a terrifying supernatural force, leading to a gripping and suspenseful narrative. The writing style is described as atmospheric, with a slow-burn horror introduction that builds tension and establishes a sense of community before delving into the unsettling events that unfold.
THE MOVERS CAME not at the hottest part of the day, but about an hour after that, when the heat had built up so that it stood under the eaves and porches and made the moisture in the ground steam unde... - #3
'Madam' by Phoebe Wynne is a gothic novel set in a girl's boarding school off the coast of Scotland, following Rose Christie, a young classics teacher who uncovers disturbing secrets and challenges the traditional teachings at the school. The story is narrated solely by Rose, intertwining her experiences with brief chapters on classic mythological women, and explores themes of female agency, unsettling academia, and the dark underbelly of the school.
The plot delves into the mysterious and antiquated practices of Caldonbrae Hall, where Rose must navigate through arcane traditions, entitled pupils, and a faculty that opposes her feminist teachings. As Rose delves deeper into the school's secrets, she becomes increasingly trapped and horrified by the twisted reality of the institution, leading to a gripping and unsettling narrative that keeps readers engaged.
- #4
"Evil and the Mask" delves into a dark and twisted tale of a family tradition where one child is raised to embody evil in the world. The protagonist, Kuki, struggles to escape the fate set by his father, leading to a narrative filled with psychological tension, intricate character development, and unexpected plot twists. The writing style is described as clear and engaging, with a mix of monologues and philosophical dialogues that explore the depths of evil and human suffering.
I was eleven, and my father had called me to his study. In his black suit he leaned back heavily on the leather sofa, perhaps because he was already an old man and standing tired him. A ray of the set... - #5
The Great Hunt, the second book in 'The Wheel of Time' series by Robert Jordan, continues the epic saga as the characters embark on new adventures and face challenges that test their limits. Readers are introduced to more world-building elements and intricate plot developments, as the story unfolds with a mix of action, suspense, and character growth. The narrative weaves together the journeys of Rand, Perrin, Mat, Nynaeve, and Egwene, along with new characters, as they navigate through a world filled with secrets, prophecies, and the looming threat of the Dark One.
The book delves deeper into the lore of the Aes Sedai, the mysteries surrounding the characters, and the complexities of their relationships. With a blend of traditional fantasy elements and original storytelling, Robert Jordan intricately pieces together a narrative that keeps readers engaged and eager to uncover more about the characters' destinies and the unfolding events that shape their world.
The Wheel of Time turns, and Ages come and pass leaving memories that become legend, then fade to myth, and are long forgot when that Age comes again. In one Age, called the Third Age by some, an Age ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Wheel of Time ) - #6
SINEATER is a novel that delves into the dark and disturbing tale of a perverse form of Christianity practiced in the mountains of Virginia. The story follows Joel, the son of the town's sineater, as he navigates through a series of deaths and struggles to find his place in a world where his family is shunned. The book explores themes of blind faith, human interactions, and the changing traditions of a small town, all set against a backdrop of rural superstitions and eerie depictions of the Appalachian mountains.
Burke looks over the woman’s shoulders at the Sister and Brother. Then he tries to focus again on his Aunt Missy. He does not understand her. He knows little of God except for what he has been told si... - #7
In the small town of Anytown, USA in 1963, teenage boys participate in an annual Halloween ritual known as the Gauntlet, where they must stop the October Boy, an undead creature made of vines and candy, from reaching the town's church. The story follows Pete McCormick, a 16-year-old boy aiming to win the Gauntlet for a chance to escape his troubled life in the town. As the tale unfolds, secrets and sacrifices of the town are unearthed, challenging the readers to question who the real villains are. The plot is fast-paced and offers a mix of action, horror, and coming-of-age elements, reminiscent of works like The Hunger Games and The Lottery.
Pete McCormick knows the story, too . . . part of it, anyway. Pete just turned sixteen. He’s been in town his whole life, but he’s never managed to fit in. And the last year’s been especially tough. H... - #8
'Blood Song' by Anthony Ryan is an epic fantasy novel that follows the journey of Vaelin Al Sorna, a young boy abandoned by his father to join the Sixth Order of the Faith of the Unified Realm. The story delves into Vaelin's growth into a natural born leader and strategist, exploring themes of moral code, manipulation, and betrayal within a complex and expansive realm. The book intricately weaves together elements of coming of age, military training, political intrigue, and religious philosophies, creating a vast and realistic environment that keeps readers engaged throughout.
The plot is filled with suspense, excitement, and well-developed characters, drawing readers into a world where action, magic, and political machinations intertwine seamlessly. Anthony Ryan's writing style captivates readers with its detailed world-building, elaborate descriptions, and brilliant pacing, making 'Blood Song' a compelling and immersive read for fantasy enthusiasts.
The mist sat thick on the ground the morning Vaelin’s father took him to the house of the Sixth Order. He rode in front, his hands grasping the saddle’s pommel, enjoying the treat. His father rarely t... - #9
For generations the Seven Prophets guided humanity with their visions, ending wars and uniting nations until the day they vanished, leaving behind the promise of a looming Age of Darkness and the birth of a Prophet who could be the world's salvation . . . or the cause of its destruction. The world building in this book is well written, giving enough information at the right times while maintaining an air of mystery throughout. The story involves a rebel known as the Hierophant taking over the old magic, a concept that may feel familiar in epic fantasy but is presented in a compelling manner here.
Around him, the lavish private room at the Thalassa Gardens taverna lay in disarray. A sumptuous feast spilled from overturned platters and filigreed pitchers. The white marble floor was littered with... - #10
In "Whiskey Chaser," readers are introduced to Devlin, a shamed attorney escaping his political life following a public scandal with his soon-to-be ex-wife's lover. He finds solace in Bootleg Springs, where he meets his sassy and independent neighbor, Scarlett Bodine. As Scarlett lures Devlin out of his self-pity, a strong attraction develops between them despite their uncertain futures. The book weaves in themes of family dynamics, mystery, and romance, set in the charming small town of Bootleg Springs.
The story unfolds with Scarlett and Devlin navigating their blossoming romance amidst personal struggles and a mysterious case from their past. Scarlett, a strong and independent woman with a troubled childhood, finds herself torn between her feelings for Devlin and her fears of repeating her parents' mistakes. Devlin, burdened by societal expectations and a failed marriage, is drawn to Scarlett's authenticity and finds a newfound sense of purpose in their relationship.
“Well that was a shit show,” Gibson muttered, flopping down in the first pew. He stretched out and toed off his shoes. A temperamental carpenter and cabinetmaker by trade, he was allergic to suits. He...