Books matching: frenetic pacing
55 result(s)
- #11
Development Hell by Mick Garris is a dark and twisted novel that delves into the seedy underbelly of Hollywood. The story follows a new director in tinsel town who embarks on a bizarre journey involving mutant babies, strange encounters with Hollywood stars, and a quest for fame that takes unexpected turns. The writing style is described as fast-paced, in-your-face, and filled with dark humor, making it a unique and captivating read for those with a taste for the unconventional.
- #12
Widespread Panic by James Ellroy is a fast-paced novel set in 1950s Hollywood, following the story of Freddy Otash, a corrupt cop turned private investigator who delves into the dark underbelly of the city while working for scandal magazines. The book is filled with salacious gossip about movie stars, scandals, and sleaze, all narrated in a compressed, intense writing style that reads like a lush prose poem. Ellroy's unique language and alliteration bring the postwar Los Angeles setting to life, intertwining real-life historical figures with fictional characters, creating a vivid portrayal of a world filled with secrets, crimes, and personal struggles.
The narrative of Widespread Panic revolves around Otash's quest to solve mysterious murders of women he knew personally, all while dealing with his own desires and conflicts. The book's high concept nature, with Otash stuck in purgatory and forced to confess his dreams and sins, adds a layer of complexity to the story. Ellroy's masterful historicity and verbal artistry shine through the book, making it a challenging yet rewarding read for fans of crime fiction and historical novels.
- #13
In 'Velocity' by Dean Koontz, the protagonist Billy Wiles, a bartender, finds himself in a terrifying situation when he starts receiving cryptic notes from a killer, forcing him to make life-and-death decisions. The book is a fast-paced thriller with elements of horror and suspense, as Billy races against time to unravel the mystery and save himself and his loved ones from danger. The story delves into themes of choice, morality, and the consequences of one's actions, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the surprising revelations at the end.
The plot of 'Velocity' revolves around Billy's struggle to navigate a twisted game orchestrated by a psychopathic killer, where he must decide between two horrifying outcomes. The narrative unfolds with gripping intensity, exploring the complexities of human nature and the darkness that lies within. Dean Koontz weaves a tale that challenges the reader to ponder moral dilemmas and the limits of compassion, making 'Velocity' a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Although he had a head reminiscent of a squash ball and the heavy rounded shoulders of a sumo wrestler, Ned was an athletic man only if you thought barroom jabber and grudge-holding qualified as sport... - #14
Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter is a captivating novel that weaves together multiple storylines across time and continents. Set in Italy in the 1960s during the filming of Cleopatra, the book explores the lives of various characters connected to that era. The plot moves back and forth between the past and the present, from Italy to America, delving into themes of love, dreams, and unexpected fulfillment. With evocative language and complex characters, the book takes readers on a journey through Hollywood life, Italian fantasy, and the pursuit of human connection.
The story follows the lives of characters like Dee Moray, Pasquale, and Richard Burton, highlighting their individual struggles, dreams, and relationships. Through a mix of humor, romance, and nostalgia, the novel explores themes of love, loss, and redemption, offering a rich tapestry of interconnected tales that span generations and continents. Beautiful Ruins is a beautifully written narrative that touches on the complexities of life choices, the power of human connection, and the intertwining paths of individuals seeking meaning and love.
The dying actress arrived in his village the only way one could come directly—in a boat that motored into the cove, lurched past the rock jetty, and bumped against the end of the pier. She wavered a m... - #15
'The Stars My Destination' by Alfred Bester is a classic science fiction novel set in the 24th century where mankind has evolved with mental abilities like jaunting and teleportation. The story follows Gully Foyle, a man seeking revenge after being marooned in space, as he navigates through a society transformed by these abilities. The book explores themes of vengeance, societal impact of advanced technology, and the evolution of humanity, all wrapped in a fast-paced and imaginative writing style that keeps readers engaged.
He was one hundred and seventy days dying and not yet dead. He fought for survival with the passion of a beast in a trap. He was delirious and rotting, but occasionally his primitive mind emerged from... - #16
'Yes Please' by Amy Poehler is a memoir that delves into the life and career of the author, from her humble beginnings to her success in the comedy industry. Poehler shares stories about her childhood, her experiences with improv groups, her time at SNL, and the creation of Parks and Recreation. The book touches on various topics such as friendship, connections, struggles with depression and divorce, and the impact of technology on our lives. Poehler's writing style is described as funny, honest, and revealing, providing insights into her personal life with a mix of humor and sincerity.
My parents would later point to these two small moments and tell me that was when they knew I would be a performer. Honestly, I don’t think I had a burning desire to act at that young age. Back then, ... - #17
'On Beauty' by Zadie Smith is a story that revolves around two families led by professors who share a deep-rooted animosity towards each other. The narrative delves into themes of family dynamics, academic rivalries, race, and class issues, all set against the backdrop of a university campus. The book offers a modern take on E.M. Forster's 'Howards End,' exploring complex relationships and human interactions with a touch of humor and wit in Smith's distinctive writing style.
The plot unfolds through a series of character-driven storylines, showcasing the intricate lives of the protagonists as they navigate love, academia, marriage, and personal growth. Smith's narrative skillfully weaves together various perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives and exploring the beauty and tragedy that emerge from human relationships.
Well, I’m really enjoying everything. I work in Monty Kipps’s own office (did you know that he’s actually Sir Monty??), which is in the Green Park area. It’s me and a Cornish girl called Emily. She’s ... - #18
CivilWarLand in Bad Decline by George Saunders is a collection of darkly humorous and satirical short stories and a novella set in quasi-dystopian American settings. The stories explore themes of critique of American society, hedonistic consumerism, guilt, redemption, and love, all while being laced with absurdity and humor. The writing style is described as inventive, absurdly funny, irreverent, and humane, with a touch of dark humor and macabre sense.
Whenever a potential big investor comes for the tour the first thing I do is take him out to the transplanted Erie Canal Lock. We’ve got a good ninety feet of actual Canal out there and a well-researc... - #19
'Leisure: The Basis of Culture' by Josef Pieper delves into the concept of leisure and its importance in a society driven by productivity and work. Pieper argues that leisure is not idleness but a reverence for pursuing meaningful interests, such as worship and contemplation. He contrasts leisure with acedia, a lack of purpose and despair, emphasizing that true leisure is a celebration of life and a recognition of our place in the world.
We can begin, like the Scholastic masters, with an objection: videtur qued non ... ”It seems not to be true that ...” And this is the objection: a time like the present [i.e., a few years after the Se... - #20
'The Last Night of the Earth Poems' by Charles Bukowski is a collection of poetry that reflects the author's introspection in his later years. The poems delve into themes of old age, women, drunkenness, desperation, and the raw complexities of life. Bukowski's writing style is described as unflinchingly honest, confronting the darker facets of life with a sharp and unfiltered lens. Despite the somber themes, there is a sense of wisdom and reflection in the poems, showcasing the author's unique perspective gained from a life lived on the edge.
The collection captures Bukowski's trademark humor and beat generation style, offering a mix of melancholy and hope. The poems provide a glimpse into the author's honest assessment of his own life, blending sentiments of regret and success. Readers are drawn into the atmosphere of bars and cafes, where Bukowski's writing shines in describing the quiet dignity of mundane settings. Overall, 'The Last Night of the Earth Poems' is a poignant reflection on life, love, and the human experience, presented through the lens of a seasoned poet.
it wouldn’t rain for just a night or a day, it would RAIN for 7 days and 7 nights and in Los Angeles the storm drains weren’t built to carry off that much water and the rain came down THICK and MEAN a...