Books matching: political corruption
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:"Blowout" by Rachel Maddow delves into the intricate web of corruption, power struggles, and environmental impact within the oil and gas industry, both nationally and internationally. Through a series of interconnected stories, Maddow explores the relationships between key players like Rex Tillerson and Vladimir Putin, the consequences of fracking and horizontal drilling, and the history of the industry from its inception to modern times. Maddow's writing style is described as informative, engaging, and filled with humor, making a complex and often dull topic palatable and enlightening for readers.
If you had to point to a beginning, to the exact location of the big bang from which American industrial and economic power began its astounding and sometimes reckless expansion, it would be at the en... - #2
Save:The Gilded Age is a novel that delves into the post-Civil War era of America, exploring the pursuit of wealth and success through risky schemes and political machinations. The story follows characters consumed by the American Dream, illustrating the consequences of their pursuits and the impact on each other's efforts. Through satire, Twain provides insight into the societal beliefs and behaviors of the time, creating a narrative that reflects on the political and business landscape of the Gilded Age.
The writing style of The Gilded Age combines Twain's satirical prowess with a slow-building plot that eventually grips the reader's interest. The novel offers a family saga aspect that, although needing improvement in character development, presents a comparison between the Victorian melodramatic elements and the modern society and government, making it an intriguing read for 21st-century readers.
These neighbors stood a few moments looking at the mail carrier reflectively while he talked; but fatigue soon began to show itself, and one after another they climbed up and occupied the top rail of ... - #3
Save:'Lay Down My Sword and Shield' by James Lee Burke is a narrative about Hackberry Holland, portrayed as a young man married to his first wife, Verisa, and aspiring to run for congress. The story delves into political corruption, racism, and the influence of Senator Dowling on Hack, leading to some questionable decisions fueled by his struggles with alcohol. The plot unfolds in southern Texas, highlighting a backdrop of violence, political manipulation, and a haunting past of Hack's experiences during the Korean War. The writing style captures the essence of the Deep South of America, portraying a compelling and complex narrative that keeps the reader engaged.
- #4
Save:Rain Dogs by Adrian McKinty is a gripping crime thriller set in 1987 Northern Ireland, featuring the determined and methodical Detective Sean Duffy. The story revolves around a locked room mystery at Carrickfergus Castle, where Duffy unravels a web of high-reaching conspiracies while dealing with historical events and personal struggles. The plot is fast-paced, with twists and turns that transform the mystery into a compelling 'howdunnit' rather than a traditional 'whodunnit'. McKinty's writing style captures the mood and details of the time and place, expertly aging Duffy and crafting well-developed secondary characters.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Detective Sean Duffy ) - #5
Save:"Hiding in Plain Sight: The Invention of Donald Trump and the Erosion of America" by Sarah Kendzior delves into the detailed changes that have occurred in America over the years, leading up to the election of Trump. Kendzior highlights the corruption and abuse of power that has been prevalent for years, painting a grim picture of American democracy being severely eroded. The author's meticulous research uncovers the ties between political elites, corrupt businessmen, and organized crime syndicates, ultimately pointing towards a dark money trail of reliance on oligarchs and mobsters. Through a decade-by-decade analysis, Kendzior exposes the intricate web of connections that suggest Trump's involvement in a transnational crime syndicate affiliated with the Kremlin, leading to a compelling narrative of an American kleptocracy in the making.
I live in Missouri, a state in the center of America, a state that sits halfway down the Mississippi River and whose northern border parallels the Mason-Dixon line. In the twentieth century, Missouri ... - #6
Save:Marie: A True Story by Peter Maas tells the real-life story of Marie Ragghianti, a divorced single mother and former beauty queen who courageously exposes corruption in the Tennessee parole system during the 1970s. After working her way up to become the chair of the state's Board of Pardons and Paroles, Marie discovers that Governor Ray Blanton is selling pardons to criminals. This revelation leads to her firing, a lawsuit, and ultimately, significant political consequences for those involved. The book captures her struggles and triumphs as she stands up against disgraceful actions from powerful figures.
- #7
Save:"A Burning" by Megha Majumdar is a riveting debut novel set in present-day India, focusing on the intertwined lives of three characters: Jivan, a young Muslim woman falsely accused of terrorism after a train bombing; Lovely, a hijra aspiring actress; and PT Sir, a gym teacher entangled in right-wing politics. The story delves into themes of class, corruption, justice, and sacrifice, showcasing the harsh realities of modern Indian society through deep character analysis and powerful narratives. Majumdar's writing style is described as hauntingly painful, deceptively simple, and thought-provoking, offering a poignant reflection on the consequences of social judgments and political mishaps.
“Eight thirty,” he is grumbling, because he is not wishing to share with me the fruits of his wristwatch. Leave him. I am abandoning my stylish walk and running like a horse to the local railway stati... - #8
Save:The Empress File by John Sandford is the second book in the Kidd & LuEllen series, following the adventures of Kidd, an artist and computer hacker, and LuEllen, a professional thief. The plot revolves around their mission to dismantle a corrupt political system in a small southern town. The book delves into themes of corruption, race relations, and political intrigue, all while incorporating elements of Tarot card symbolism. The first-person narrative style adds a personal touch to the story, making it an engaging read for those familiar with the early days of computing.
(Also, see 22 recommendations for the series Kidd & LuEllen ) - #9
Save:'The Feast of the Goat' by Mario Vargas Llosa is a political thriller based on historical events surrounding the end of the dictatorship of Trujillo in the Dominican Republic. It weaves fiction with real-life events, focusing on the assassination of the dictator Rafael Trujillo in 1961. The novel is praised for its portrayal of political drama, the downfall of a dictatorship, and the aftermath of the assassination from different perspectives. It explores themes of power, corruption, political intrigue, and family revenge, offering an insightful look into the Latin American island nation's history.
The writing style of Mario Vargas Llosa in 'The Feast of the Goat' is highly acclaimed for its historical accuracy blended with fictional elements. Readers appreciate the way the author creates a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of political corruption, machismo, and the consequences of challenging authoritarian regimes. is described as a compelling and well-paced story that provides a window into the lives of characters affected by the regime of Trujillo, offering a thought-provoking reflection on power dynamics and the impact of dictatorship.
Urania. Her parents had done her no favor; her name suggested a planet, a mineral, anything but the slender, fine-featured woman with burnished skin and large, dark, rather sad eyes who looked back at... - #10
Save:Christopher Buckley's 'Boomsday' is a satirical novel that delves into the social security crisis in America, focusing on the conflict between the aging baby boomer generation and the younger generations who will bear the financial burden. The story follows Cassandra Devine, a young PR specialist, who proposes a controversial solution to the crisis by suggesting that boomers should commit suicide voluntarily transition in exchange for government incentives. Through a mix of humor and political commentary, the book explores themes of generational differences, political corruption, and societal apathy towards pressing issues.
Today’s media trainee was the chief executive officer of a company that administered hospitals, twenty-eight of them throughout the southeastern United States. In the previous year, it had lost $285 m...
