Books matching: legacy and inheritance
40 result(s)
- #1
Save:'The Sweeney Sisters' by Lian Dolan is a family drama that follows the lives of the three Sweeney sisters, Liza, Maggie, and Tricia, as they navigate the aftermath of their father's death and the discovery of a fourth sister, Serena. The book delves into the complexities of family relationships, secrets, and the process of grief, all while exploring themes of sisterhood, love, forgiveness, and self-discovery. Through vivid storytelling and distinct character development, the author weaves a narrative that captures the essence of familial bonds and the journey towards understanding and acceptance.
- #2
Save:'The Sport of Kings' by C.E. Morgan is a sprawling novel set in Kentucky that delves into themes of racism, family, inheritance, and the history of America. The story follows the last scion of the white Forge family, the African American groom of a successful racehorse, and an escaped slave, exploring their intertwined lives and struggles across generations. The book is praised for its encompassing narrative, vivid descriptions of landscape and horse racing, and its exploration of complex themes through multiple perspectives.
How far away from your father can you run? The boy disappeared into the corn, the green blades whisking and whispering as he raced down each canopied lane. The stalks snagged him once, twice, and he c... - #3
Save:'The Cottingley Secret' by Hazel Gaynor is a novel that weaves together the past and present, exploring the story behind the Cottingley fairy photographs taken by two young cousins in 1917. The book follows the lives of Frances and Elsie, the girls behind the fairy pictures, and Olivia, a modern-day protagonist who discovers a connection to the past through her late grandfather's bookstore. Through magical realism and historical fiction elements, the author brings to life the enchanting tale of the Cottingley fairies and the impact of belief in the extraordinary.
Olivia Kavanagh didn’t believe in happy endings. Life hadn’t worked out that way for her so far. At thirty-five, she had almost stopped believing it ever would. Almost, but not entirely, because there... - #4
Save:"Dunbar" is a modern retelling of Shakespeare's King Lear set in the context of a media empire. The story follows Henry Dunbar, a corporate mogul who is betrayed by his two eldest daughters, Abby and Megan, and confined to a mental facility. With elements of family drama, suspense, and adventure, the plot unfolds as Dunbar escapes with the help of a fellow patient and navigates the treacherous landscape of his family's power struggle.
St. Aubyn's adaptation of King Lear delves into themes of power, betrayal, and family loyalty within the cutthroat corporate world. The narrative explores the dynamics between Dunbar and his daughters, particularly Florence, who stands out as the only one truly devoted to her father amidst the deceit and manipulation orchestrated by her sisters. Through a blend of humor, insight, and riveting storytelling, the book presents a modern take on a classic tragedy, offering a compelling exploration of greed, forgiveness, and the complexities of familial relationships.
“We’re off our meds/ we’re off our heads,” sang Peter, “we’re out of our beds/ and we’re off our meds! Yesterday,” he continued in a conspiratorial whisper, “we were drooling into the lapels of our te...
(Also, see 64 recommendations for the series Hogarth Shakespeare ) - #5
Save:The Guest Book by Sarah Blake is a multi-generational saga that delves into the lives of the wealthy Milton family, spanning from the late 1930s to the present day. The narrative weaves through different time periods and perspectives, exploring themes of privilege, prejudice, family secrets, and societal issues such as classism, racism, and anti-Semitism. The story unfolds on Crockett's Island in Maine, a retreat that holds both significance and challenges for the family members as they grapple with their past and present.
The book is praised for its intricate storytelling, vivid descriptions, and detailed character development. It examines the complexities of human relationships, societal norms, and the consequences of privilege across generations. Through a blend of historical fiction elements and family drama, The Guest Book offers a thought-provoking exploration of themes that resonate with contemporary socio-political landscapes.
THE FALL HAD TURNED to winter and then back again without conviction, November’s chill taken up and dropped like a woman never wearing the right coat until finally December laughed and took hold. Then... - #6
Save:The Greek Coffin Mystery by Ellery Queen is a classic detective novel following young Ellery and his father, Inspector Queen, as they unravel a complex mystery involving a missing will, a murdered man found in a coffin, stolen art, and multiple false solutions. The book is known for its intricate plotting, devilishly intricate plot, and a brilliant surprise ending that keeps readers engaged till the end. Set in the 1930s, the story is filled with red herrings, mysterious characters, and unexpected twists that challenge both the detective and the reader.
The writing style of The Greek Coffin Mystery has been described as classic and vintage, with a focus on intricate details and a meticulous unraveling of the plot. The author, Ellery Queen, known for providing all clues to the reader for solving the mystery, challenges readers directly to engage in the puzzle-solving process. Despite some criticisms for stilted writing and offensive language, the book is praised for its suspenseful storytelling and complex puzzle that keeps readers guessing till the surprising conclusion.
FROM THE VERY BEGINNING the Khalkis case struck a somber note. It began, as was peculiarly harmonious in the light of what was to come, with the death of an old man. The death of this old man wove its...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Ellery Queen Detective ) - #7
Save:Bellefleur by Joyce Carol Oates is a sprawling, gothic saga revolving around multiple generations of the Bellefleur family in upstate New York. The narrative unfolds in a surreal castle where the family members live together, with each chapter delving into the lives and histories of different family members or incidents. The book is characterized by elements of magical realism, Gothic themes, and a fluid timeline that jumps through space and time, creating a rich tapestry of bizarre yet poignant episodes.
The writing style of Bellefleur is described as lush, atmospheric, and vivid, with a focus on character-driven storytelling. Oates weaves a tale filled with eccentric, twisted characters and explores themes of love, borderline insanity, and the dark underbelly of the American dream. The book combines elements of the grotesque, the gothic, and the surreal, creating a mesmerizing and contemplative narrative that challenges the reader's imagination and perception of reality.
It was many years ago in that dark, chaotic, unfathomable pool of time before Germaine’s birth (nearly twelve months before her birth), on a night in late September stirred by innumerable frenzied win... - #8
Save:'A Dangerous Road' is a historical mystery set in Memphis, Tennessee in 1968, during the garbage workers' strike and the visits of Dr. Martin Luther King. The story follows Smokey Dalton, a black private investigator, as he delves into a case involving a white woman named Laura, who bequeathed a large sum of money to him in her will. As Dalton uncovers hidden secrets and explores his own past, the plot weaves together multiple storylines, historical facts, and fictional occurrences, creating a gripping and enlightening narrative that immerses readers into the turbulent times of the 60s.
The writing style of 'A Dangerous Road' is praised for its realism, well-developed characters, and emotional depth. The author expertly combines historical events with a compelling mystery, drawing the reader into the lives of Smokey Dalton, Laura, and other characters, while exploring themes of identity, social injustice, and personal dilemmas. The book offers a unique perspective on the days leading up to MLK's assassination, intertwining the pasts of the characters in a way that keeps readers engaged and invested in their stories.
The rioting is finally over, and the fires have burned out. Washington, D.C., is a blackened ruin, and so are the west and south sides of Chicago. Pittsburgh, Newark, Hartford, and Trenton have all su... - #9
Save:The Royal Succession, the fourth book in The Accursed Kings series by Maurice Druon, delves into the political machinations following the death of King Louis X and the turmoil surrounding the question of succession. The plot revolves around the struggle to determine who will be regent until the Queen's child reaches majority, with alliances formed, murders committed, and plot twists taking unexpected turns. Druon's writing style expertly weaves historical facts with rumors from the time, creating a gripping narrative that blurs the line between fiction and reality.
The book showcases a change in pace as the main protagonists display competence and a sense of duty towards France, particularly focusing on Philippe of Poitiers who strives to restore order in the midst of chaos. Druon excels at tragic interjections, seamlessly blending minor characters into historical events and crafting a narrative that keeps readers on edge with the unpredictability of power dynamics and character motivations.
The wimple of fine linen, enclosing her neck and imprisoning her chin to the lip, revealing only the centre of her face, was white; so was the great veil covering her forehead and eyebrows; so was the...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Accursed Kings ) - #10
Save:The Ultimate Gift is a motivational novel that follows the story of Jason, a spoiled rich kid who must complete 12 assignments set by his deceased billionaire grandfather, Red Stevens, in order to receive his ultimate inheritance. The book focuses on themes of self-revelation, generosity, and the importance of relationships in life. Through these assignments, Jason learns valuable life lessons that ultimately shape his character and perspective on what truly matters in life.
The plot of the book revolves around Jason's journey of personal growth as he navigates through the challenges and lessons set forth by his late grandfather. The writing style is described as easy to read, thought-provoking, and engaging, with subtle advice on improving various aspects of life woven throughout the narrative. The story not only entertains but also prompts readers to reflect on their own legacies and the impact they want to leave behind in the world.
