Books matching: magic and reality intertwine
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- #1
'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' by Susanna Clarke is a mesmerizing blend of historical fiction and fantasy, set in an alternate version of nineteenth century England. The story follows two magicians, Mr. Norrell and Jonathan Strange, as they delve into the restoration of magic in England and eventually aid in the country's victory in the Napoleonic Wars. The book intricately weaves together intricate world-building, fascinating characters, and a plot that unfolds slowly but steadily, keeping readers engaged through its detailed descriptions and rich storytelling style.
The writing style of 'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' is described as dense, detailed, and somewhat long-winded, reminiscent of nineteenth-century literature. The author, Susanna Clarke, creates a world that is both captivating and immersive, with elements of humor, pointed digs, and a cynical outlook on the usefulness of magic. The book is known for its historical accuracy, extensive footnotes that add depth to the narrative, and its ability to transport readers to a world where magic and reality intertwine seamlessly.
They were gentleman-magicians, which is to say they had never harmed any one by magic – nor ever done any one the slightest good. In fact, to own the truth, not one of these magicians had ever cast th... - #2
The Autumn Castle is an urban fantasy novel that follows the story of Christine, a young woman living in Germany with her artist boyfriend, Jude. Christine's life takes a mystical turn when she is transported to Ewigkreis, Fairyland, where she reunites with her childhood friend Mayfridh, who is now the Fairy Queen. The book delves into themes of friendship, betrayal, romance, and magic as Christine navigates between the real world and the enchanting Fairyland. The plot intricately weaves together the lives of various characters living in an artist colony at Hotel Mandy Z. in Berlin, each with their own secrets and desires. Kim Wilkins' writing style brings a fairy tale-like quality to the story, creating a captivating and immersive experience for the readers.
The narrative explores the complex relationships between the characters, their struggles, and their growth throughout the story. Kim Wilkins expertly crafts a world where magic and reality intertwine, keeping the readers engaged with a blend of mystery, drama, and romance. The Autumn Castle introduces readers to a richly imagined universe where characters from different backgrounds and realms are drawn together by fate, leading to a web of lies, deception, and dark secrets that ultimately shape their destinies.
I first conceived of the Bone Wife as a child of eight in Bremen. My mother had taken me to a traveling exhibit of puppets, dolls, and automatons in the town square. I had always been, and continue to... - #3
Dreams Underfoot by Charles de Lint is an anthology of urban fairy tales set in the imaginary city of Newford. The stories blur the threshold between reality and faerie, introducing readers to mythical creatures and magical elements hidden in the shadows of everyday life. The collection features interconnected short stories with recurring characters, offering a blend of myth, folklore, and fairytales set against the backdrop of 90s street culture and art. De Lint's writing style is described as poetic, vivid, and haunting, with a focus on character development and creating a sense of magic within a realistic urban setting.
She would see them in the twilight when the wind was right, roly-poly shapes propelled by ocean breezes, turning end-over-end along the beach or down the alley behind her house, like errant beach ball...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Newford ) - #4
Caraval by Stephanie Garber is a magical and mysterious tale following two sisters, Scarlett and Tella, as they escape their father to participate in the magical game of Caraval. The story is filled with twists and turns, secrets, and a dark and enchanting world that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The writing style is described as young adult, with detailed descriptions that transport readers to the streets of Caraval alongside the characters.
She read the letter again. Then again. And again. Her eyes took in each sharp stroke of ink, every waxy curve of the Caraval master’s silver crest—a sun with a star inside and a teardrop inside of the... - #5
Carpentaria by Alexis Wright is an epic novel that delves into the lives of isolated communities near Carpentaria Bay in northern Australia. The story involves feuding Aboriginals, vindictive Anglos, and destructive employees of an international mine, all intertwined with elements of nature, mysticism, and Aboriginal traditions. The author, being Aboriginal herself, intricately weaves together people, events, and words in a circular narrative that mirrors the movements of the Great Serpent, bringing out themes of human distress, terror, and joy. Wright's unique writing style captures the essence of the region, blending humor, slang, and lyrical prose to create a richly human story full of larger-than-life characters and powerful storytelling.
A NATION CHANTS, BUT WE KNOW YOUR STORY ALREADY. THE BELLS PEAL EVERYWHERE. CHURCH BELLS CALLING THE FAITHFUL TO THE TABERNACLE WHERE THE GATES OF HEAVEN WILL OPEN, BUT NOT FOR THE WICKED. CALLING INN... - #6
In "Of Blood and Bone" by Nora Roberts, the story follows Fallon Swift as she approaches her thirteenth birthday and is revealed to be The One, destined to lead the battle against the forces of darkness. Under the guidance of her mentor Mallick, Fallon undergoes intense training to harness her powers and prepare for the looming war. Meanwhile, the residents of New Hope continue to build their society and face the challenges brought on by the post-apocalyptic world. The narrative seamlessly weaves together elements of magic, community building, and character growth, setting the stage for an epic showdown between good and evil.
On the farm where she’d been born, Fallon Swift learned how to plant and grow and harvest, to respect and use the land. She learned how to move through fields and forests, silent as a shadow, to hunt ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Chronicles of The One ) - #7
"A Non Comprehensive Guide to Sea Serpents" by A.J. Sherwood is a heartwarming tale set in a magical version of 1930s England where homosexuality is illegal. The story follows Sorcerer Adrien Danvers as he rescues two young boys, Julian and MacMallin, who become his apprentices and found family. The book focuses on their journey of building trust, forming a family, and navigating the challenges of a world filled with magic, sorcery, and dangerous creatures like sea serpents. The writing style is immersive, capturing the emotional depth of the characters and the intricate world-building of a society where magic is a profession and training is a crucial aspect of life.
- #8
'Bitter' by Akwaeke Emezi is a prequel to the novel 'Pet' and follows the story of Bitter, a character with a unique ability to call forth Angels from her paintings to combat Monsters in the town of Lucille. The narrative revolves around themes of resistance, vengeance, and the complex dynamics between characters. It delves into the backstory of Jam's mother, Bitter, and explores her journey of self-discovery and understanding her place in a world filled with violence and oppression. Emezi's writing style is described as insightful, full of feeling, and masterful in intertwining real-world issues with magical elements.
- #9
Trash, Sex, Magic by Jennifer Stevenson is a supernatural tale set in rural Indiana where a poorly planned housing project threatens the magical stability of a riverside piece of land. The story revolves around the clash between the corporate trash aiming to develop the land and the trailer trash community living on it, highlighting themes of nature's power, magical forces, and the intricate relationships between characters.
Chapter One FOXE PARKE TOWNHOUSES, BERNE, ILLINOIS EIGHT ELEGANT RIVERSIDE DWELLINGS ARCHITECTS: LUNT MORSE A.I.A. DEVELOPER: ATLAS PROPERTIES GENERAL CONTRACTOR: BAGOFF, FIMBEAU & JUICK Raedawn Somer... - #10
Set on the French West Indian island of Guadeloupe, 'The Bridge of Beyond' by Simone Schwarz-Bart traces a century of history of the Lougandor women beginning after the end of slavery. The novel follows five generations, focusing on Toussine, known as Queen Without a Name, and her granddaughter, Telumee. The book delves into the struggles of these women to survive in an unstable economy, turning to alcohol and violence in times of despair. Schwarz-Bart's writing style is described as lush, realistic, and filled with rich imagery that immerses the reader in the natural world of Guadeloupe, creating a magical tribute to women, self-reliance, and the power of transcendence.
A MAN’S COUNTRY may be cramped or vast according to the size of his heart. I’ve never found my country too small, though that isn’t to say my heart is great. And if I could choose it’s here in Guadelo...