Books matching: divided loyalties
24 result(s)
- #1
Save:Set in Malaysia during WWII, 'The Gift of Rain' follows the story of Philip Hutton, a young man of mixed heritage who finds himself caught in the complexities of divided loyalties. As he navigates his relationships with his family, his community, and his Japanese sensei, the novel delves into themes of wartime lies, loyalties, and the impacts of choices made during trying times. Tan Twan Eng's evocative writing style brings to life the lush descriptions of the island setting and the intricate relationships portrayed in the book.
Young Philip's journey through the war, his struggles with identity and loyalty, and the heartbreaking consequences of his decisions are at the heart of 'The Gift of Rain'. The novel explores the bonds between characters, the complexities of wartime relationships, and the internal conflicts faced by the protagonist as he grapples with his sense of belonging and duty. Tan Twan Eng weaves a poignant tale of love, tragedy, and the enduring impacts of personal and political relationships set against the backdrop of wartime Malaysia.
This was back in a time when I did not believe in fortunetellers, when the world was not yet filled with wonder and mystery. I cannot recall her appearance now, the woman who read my face and touche... - #2Under Enemy Colours: Charles Hayden Book 1Book 1 in the series:Adventures of Charles Hayden
Save:'Under Enemy Colours' by Sean Thomas Russell follows the naval career of Charles Hayden, a first lieutenant in His Majesty's navy during the Napoleonic era. The story is rich with themes of reconciling divided loyalties, as Hayden, part English and part French, navigates through the challenges of serving in the British navy while struggling with his heritage. The plot unfolds with Hayden facing political intrigues, naval battles, and personal conflicts, all set against the backdrop of the sea. Russell's writing style intricately captures the essence of naval affairs, providing vivid descriptions of the sea, naval combat, and the characters involved.
- #3
Save:"Song of the Summer King" by Jess E. Owen follows the story of Shard, a young Gryphon living under the rule of the Red King. Shard's life takes a turn when he meets a young she-wolf named Catori, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and rebellion against his King. The plot is filled with political intrigue, secret rebellions, divided loyalties, and heartfelt friendships, set in a world filled with Gryphons, wolves, and dragons, creating a unique and captivating fantasy tale. The writing style is described as creative, with smooth flowing words that immediately draw readers into the world of fantasy animals and new storylines.
The sun rose unhurriedly from the sea, and Shard strained against the steep sky, breathing deep, challenging himself to the highest possible dive. The sea spun below him. His mind flickered lightly in... 'Black Mass: The Irish Mob, the Boston FBI, and a Devil's Deal' by Dick Lehr delves into the intricate web of crime and corruption surrounding infamous gangster Whitey Bulger and his relationship with the FBI. Through meticulous research and detailed storytelling, the book explores the dark underbelly of South Boston, shedding light on the violent intersection of Irish American tribal culture, FBI informants, and organized crime. The narrative spans from Whitey Bulger's upbringing in the 70s to his reign as the head of the Winter Hill Gang, intertwined with the FBI's mishandling of informants and the moral ambiguity that permeates the story.
Under a harvest moon FBI agent John Connolly eased his beat-up Plymouth into a parking space along Wollaston Beach. Behind him the water stirred, and further off, the Boston skyline sparkled. The ship...- #5
Save:"The Master Butchers Singing Club" by Louise Erdrich tells the story of Fidelis Waldvogel, a German immigrant and master butcher who settles in the fictional town of Argus, North Dakota, with his wife Eva and their family. The narrative spans several decades, exploring the lives of vividly drawn characters in the town, including Delphine, a vaudeville performer, and her relationship with Fidelis and Eva. Through lyrical storytelling, the book delves into themes of immigration, friendship, love, and the complexities of life between the World Wars.
The writing style in the book is described as elegantly written, expansive, and full of poetic flourishes that bring the characters and landscapes to life. Readers praise Louise Erdrich's ability to create compelling characters, vivid descriptions, and a sense of place that immerses them in the small town of Argus, North Dakota, during a tumultuous period in American history.
FIDELIS WALKED home from the great war in twelve days and slept thirty-eight hours once he crawled into his childhood bed. When he woke in Germany in late November of the year 1918, he was only a few ... - #6
Save:A Song for Arbonne by Guy Gavriel Kay is a tale set in a parallel world reminiscent of medieval Europe, focusing on the conflict between the free-loving people of Arbonne and the bigoted neighbors of Gorhaut. The story delves into themes of courtly love, political machinations, and personal choices that shape the destiny of the characters involved. The narrative weaves together elements of romance, intrigue, action, and complex relationships against the backdrop of a richly described world.
There was very little wind, which was a blessing. Pale moonlight fell upon the gently swelling sea around the skiff. They had chosen a moonlit night. Despite the risks, they would need to see where th... - #7
Save:The Blinding Knife, the second book in the Lightbringer series by Brent Weeks, continues the epic fantasy tale following the events of the first book, Black Prism. The book introduces a new range of magic types with associated rules, creating a distinctly different fantasy world. The plot follows the characters as they navigate through intricate political power plays, moral dilemmas, hidden agendas, and divided loyalties, all set against the backdrop of an overarching war. The book is known for its meticulous worldbuilding, detailed and unique magic system, sympathetic characters, and twists and turns that keep readers guessing.
Gavin Guile lay on his back on a narrow skimmer floating in the middle of the sea. It was a tiny craft with low sides. Lying on his back like this, he’d once almost believed he was one with the sea. N...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Lightbringer ) - #8
Save:In the book 'Dissolution' by C.J. Sansom, readers are taken back to 16th century England during the reign of King Henry VIII and the dissolution of the monasteries. The story follows Matthew Shardlake, a hunchback lawyer and Commissioner for Thomas Cromwell, as he investigates a murder at a monastery in Scarnsea. As Shardlake delves into the murder mystery, he also navigates the turbulent political and religious landscape of the time, where loyalties are divided between the king and the reformers of the Church of England and the Catholic Church.
AS I PASSED DOWN Ludgate Hill, I noticed a stall brimming with apples and pears and, feeling hungry, dismounted to buy some. As I stood feeding an apple to Chancery, I noticed down a side street a cro... - #9
Save:Zoo Station by David Downing is a historical thriller set in pre-WWII Berlin, focusing on the life of John Russell, an English journalist with deep ties to Germany. As the Nazi regime tightens its grip on the country, Russell finds himself entangled in espionage, smuggling, and dangerous alliances to protect his loved ones and navigate the complex political landscape. The novel intricately weaves together the personal struggles of its characters with the looming threat of war, offering a slow-burn narrative that immerses readers in the tension and uncertainty of the era.
THERE WERE TWO HOURSleft of 1938. In Danzig it had been snowing on and off all day, and a gang of children was enjoying a snowball fight in front of the grain warehouses which lined the old waterfront... - #10
Save:'Here Be Dragons' is a historical fiction novel set in the late 1100s to early 1200s, focusing on the lives of Prince Llewelyn of Wales and Joanna, the illegitimate daughter of King John of England. The narrative intricately weaves political allegiances, complex family dynamics, and the tumultuous relationship between England and Wales. Through Joanna's perspective, the story explores themes of loyalty, love, and the struggles faced by the Welsh against the backdrop of English dominion. The author, Sharon Kay Penman, immerses readers in a richly detailed historical setting, bringing to life the characters and their motivations while depicting the socio-political landscape of medieval times.
Penman's writing style is characterized by its vivid character development and meticulous attention to historical accuracy. Readers have noted her ability to create a compelling narrative that balances romance and political intrigue, making the historical events both engaging and relatable. The novel's pacing allows for a deep exploration of its characters, particularly Joanna and Llewelyn, capturing their emotional journeys amidst the larger historical context. Despite the book's considerable length, many readers found it to be a captivating read that drew them into the lives of its characters and the complexities of their world.
He was ten years old and an alien in an unfriendly land, made an unwilling exile by his mother’s marriage to a Marcher border lord. His new stepfather seemed a kindly man, but he was not of Llewelyn’s...
