Books matching: identity and deception
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:A fast-paced, smart, and entertaining YA fantasy with a sharp heroine. Not flawless, but a great pick for anyone wanting an adventurous royal romp with brains and heart.
The Decoy Princess by Dawn Cook is a fantasy novel that follows Princess Contessa, who is raised to believe she is the crown princess, only to discover she is a decoy for the real princess's safety. As she navigates through assassination attempts and palace takeovers, Contessa fights to protect her family and kingdom, showcasing her well-developed character and unique voice. The book weaves together elements of intrigue, deception, and magical powers, creating an engaging story recommended for fantasy readers of all types.
The plot of The Decoy Princess revolves around Contessa's journey of self-discovery and empowerment as she learns the truth about her identity and abilities. The book introduces political undercurrents, a secretive sect called players, and a thrilling adventure where Contessa must outwit foes and uncover her true place in the kingdom, showcasing a strong female lead and a layered plot filled with twists and moral ambiguity.
It might have been chance that kept my attention tight across the street and upon the mud-splattered gypsy van, but I doubted it. Nebulous coincidences like chance aren’t allowed sway in my life, ever...November 2005•369 pages - #2
Save:Saint is a dark, intriguing start to a reverse harem series that keeps you guessing - a must for fans of twisty, suspenseful romance, but may test your patience if you need all the answers (or all the romance) upfront.
'Saint' in the series 'Saint and Sinners' by Ruby Vincent is a fast-paced story filled with intrigue, dark pasts, and unexpected twists. The plot revolves around Saint St John Sinjin and the FMC Addy Adeline, as they navigate a world of secrets, betrayals, and dangerous alliances. The writing style is described as well-crafted, with dramatic flair and interspersed with raunchy scenes that add depth to the characters and their relationships. The story follows the characters as they uncover mysteries, face challenges, and build complex dynamics, keeping readers engaged and eager to unravel the next twist.
Inhibitions were shed at the door, and we finally gave in to acting on impulse. Eyes meeting across the bar. Hands roaming free on the dance floor, and then stifled giggles and racing hearts as we esc...February 2021•290 pages - #3
Save:A spicy, emotional monster romance with great world-building and a fresh take on familiar tropes–perfect for fans of unconventional love stories who like their fantasy a little dark and a lot swoony.
'In the Claws of the Raven Prince' by Mallory Dunlin is a fantasy novel that delves into a rich world filled with depth and emotionality. The storyline follows the characters Ayre and Lilly, exploring their bond across battle lines, struggles, triumphs, and personal growth. Set in a unique fantasy realm, the book offers a fresh spin on traditional fantasy tropes, captivating readers with its well-thought-out characters and engaging plot. The writing style effortlessly immerses readers into a whole new world without overwhelming them with excessive world-building, making it a seamless and enjoyable read for fans of the genre.
The risers set up on the loading dock were marked Humans Only. It was a necessary precaution. We sharpened our weapons while we waited for our turn in the ring, or to have something to do, and the las...April 2023•307 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Monsters of Faery ) - #4
Save:A beautifully restrained, thought-provoking novella - a must-read for historical fiction lovers who appreciate depth over drama.
'The Wife Of Martin Guerre' by Janet Lewis is a historical novella that delves into the intriguing true story of Martin Guerre, a man who leaves his family farm in sixteenth-century France only to return years later, claiming to be the missing Martin. The plot revolves around the complexities of identity, deception, and betrayal as the imposter is eventually exposed, leading to a dramatic and tragic conclusion. Janet Lewis's writing style is described as bare and clear, offering an economical storytelling approach that builds tension relentlessly and keeps the reader engaged with every crucial detail that unfolds.
1941•115 pages - #5
Save:A richly layered, morally complex espionage novel best for patient readers who savor nuance and ambiguity - not your typical spy thriller, but a cerebral page-turner if you embrace its depth.
The Little Drummer Girl by John le Carre is a spy novel set in the late 1970s Middle East, revolving around the story of an English actress named Charlie who is recruited by Israeli intelligence to infiltrate a Palestinian terrorist cell. The book explores themes of espionage, terrorism, and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The plot unfolds as Charlie is drawn into a dangerous game where she must navigate between her role as a double agent and her growing sympathies towards the Palestinian cause, all while being entangled in a web of deceit and manipulation.
The writing style of John le Carre in The Little Drummer Girl is praised for its meticulous attention to detail and intricate plot development. The author expertly weaves together a narrative that delves deep into the psychological complexities of the characters, particularly Charlie, and provides a nuanced portrayal of the espionage world and the moral dilemmas faced by those involved. The book offers a thought-provoking exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction in the realm of international intrigue.
It was the Bad Godesberg incident that gave the proof, though the German authorities had no earthly means of knowing this. Before Bad Godesberg, there had been growing suspicion; a lot of it. But the...January 1983•554 pages - #6
Save:'Love Alters Not' in the series 'The Golden Chronicles' by author Patricia Veryan is a thrilling historical romance packed with action, suspense, and humor. The story follows Dimity Cranford, a strong and courageous heroine who finds herself entangled in treasonable intrigue on behalf of her former suitor. As Dimity navigates through deception, adventures, and unexpected alliances, she must deliver a crucial cypher while assuming a false identity and facing the infamous Lord Anthony Farrar. The book is set in the Georgian era and offers a blend of heart-stopping adventure, old-fashioned romance, and engaging characters, creating a captivating and entertaining read that stands out in the Golden Chronicles series.
In the year of grace 1529, Muse Manor was an old house in the North Downs, some miles northwest of Basingstoke, its considerable charms embellished by two square miles of lush farmland, together with...1987•379 pages
(Also, see 39 recommendations for the series The Golden Chronicles ) - #7
Save:A witty, wordy, often outrageous debut that’s clever and entertaining if you’re tuned into Fry’s style, but can feel inaccessible and disjointed if not. Best enjoyed by fans of Fry, British comedy, and tricksy narratives.
'The Liar' by Stephen Fry is a witty and entertaining novel that follows the life of Adrian Healey, a compulsive liar, through his experiences at public school and Cambridge University. The writing style alternates between being clever and obscene, with jumps in chronology and random interludes related to clothing. The story is full of twists and turns, mysterious spy elements, and colorful characters, all narrated with Fry's trademark wit and humor.
The plot of 'The Liar' revolves around questions of identity and the lies we tell ourselves and others, exploring themes of nature, narratives, and absurdity. The novel is a mix of autobiographical elements and fictionalized accounts, with a blend of humor, mystery, and espionage that keeps readers guessing until the end. Fry's writing is described as unique, erudite, and full of linguistic skill, reminiscent of other great British authors, making 'The Liar' a delightful and engaging read.
Adrian checked the orchid at his buttonhole, inspected the spats at his feet, gave the lavender gloves a twitch, smoothed down his waistcoat, tucked the ebony Malacca-cane under his arm, swallowed twi...1991•392 pages - #8
Save:Not Collins's most sensational, but a thought-provoking study of blindness, identity, and love, served up with quirky humor and memorable characters. A hidden gem for Victorian lit lovers - even if some Victorian-era improbabilities require you to suspend disbelief.
"Poor Miss Finch" by Wilkie Collins tells the story of a young blind woman, Lucilla Finch, who regains her sight through a surgery performed by an optic surgeon. The plot revolves around Lucilla's challenges and adaptations to the world after gaining her sight, her relationships with the twin brothers who love her, and the various eccentric characters surrounding her. Wilkie Collins weaves a tale of deception, identity issues, and disguises, exploring themes of blindness, love, and the complexities of human emotions.
1872•462 pages - #9
Save:The Duplicate Bride by Ginny Baird is a charming contemporary romance that follows the story of identical twins Hope and Jackie. When Jackie, a busy wedding planner, runs into problems with a wedding she was planning, she asks Hope to stand in for her at her fiancé Brent's family vacation home. Hope reluctantly agrees to help her sister, but things take a complicated turn when she starts falling for Brent while pretending to be Jackie. As the lies pile up and misunderstandings ensue, Hope finds herself in a tangled web of deception and conflicting emotions, leading to an inevitable crisis and a heartwarming resolution. The book is praised for its well-written plot, likable characters, and a sweet, slow-burn romance that keeps readers engaged until the last word.
Unfortunately, every time she thought she’d found her happily ever after, the relationship crashed and burned. Even if she was prone to making bad picks, as her neighbor, Iris, said, she’d learned fro...September 2020•353 pages - #10
Save:A fun, adventurous Regency romance with pirates, passion, and a touch of humor. Best for those who enjoy a blend of steamy romance and high-seas escapades - just be prepared for a leading lady who may divide opinions.
'The Care & Feeding of Pirates' by Jennifer Ashley is the final installment in the 'Regency Pirates' series. The story revolves around Honoria Ardmore, who secretly admires a dangerous pirate, Christopher Raine, once a friend turned enemy of her brother. When Christopher is captured and sentenced to death, Honoria shares a magical moment with him in his jail cell and secretly weds him to grant him his last wish. is filled with action, adventure, steamy romance, and unexpected twists, making it a captivating read that keeps readers engaged till the end.
The writing style of the book is described as engaging, with strong character interactions and intriguing plotlines. Readers mention that the story is well-written, with steamy romantic moments and a fabulous epilogue that ties up the series nicely. The dynamics between the characters, especially between Honoria and Christopher, are highlighted as compelling, adding depth to the narrative and keeping readers invested in their journey.
He’d never been there, of course. Christopher Raine was dead. He’d been hung by the neck in Charleston four years earlier, captured by her brother, James, tried and condemned to death for the crime of...
