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Books matching: prohibited love

12 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 12 
  1. #1

    City of Ashes - The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare
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    Action-packed and full of supernatural flair, "City of Ashes" is an entertaining, if angsty, second installment - great for fans of urban fantasy and twisty romances, but not for those allergic to love triangles or melodrama.

    In "City of Ashes," the second book in 'The Mortal Instruments' series, Clary and Jace navigate their complicated relationship while facing new revelations about their past. As they grapple with their feelings and the schemes of Valentine, they are drawn into action to stop him from obtaining a powerful magical tool. The book is praised for its strong character development, intense romantic scenes, and fast-paced plot filled with action and twists.

    “Oh, yes you are.” Jace gestured accusingly at his stepbrother, then yelped as pain shot up his arm. Every part of him hurt from the thumping he’d taken that afternoon when he’d dropped three floors t...
    2007
    505 pages

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Mortal Instruments )

  2. #2

    The Last Temptation of Christ by Nikos Kazantzakis
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    A passionate, provocative re-imagining of the life of Christ that emphasizes his humanity and inner conflict - admired for its depth and literary power, but sometimes a tough, controversial read.

    The Last Temptation of Christ by Nikos Kazantzakis is a novel that retells the Gospels with added details and portrays Christ as a man struggling with his divine duty versus living an ordinary life. The book delves into the inner turmoil of Jesus as he faces the temptation of pleasure over duty and the universal struggle of making sacrifices for the greater good. Through vivid descriptions and fleshed-out characters, Kazantzakis brings a contemporary sense to the historical background of first-century Israel, providing a deeper understanding of the humanity behind the ultimate symbolic tale.

    Kazantzakis' writing style in The Last Temptation of Christ is described as powerful, intense, and challenging, exploring profound themes concerning the dual nature of human experience and the humanity of Christ. The novel presents Jesus as a human figure, full of doubts and hopes, striving to reconcile his divine and human aspects, making for a poignant struggle that is both compelling and devout.

    Above, the blossoming skies had opened into a thick tangle of stars; below, on the ground, the stones were steaming, still afire from the great heat of the day. Heaven and earth were peaceful and swee...
    1952
    514 pages

  3. #3

    The Steep Approach To Garbadale by Iain M. Banks
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    A reliably entertaining, if not groundbreaking, modern family saga with all the hallmarks of classic Banks: clever prose, flawed characters, dark humor, and a dash of social critique. Not his most innovative, but definitely a solid, enjoyable read.

    'The Steep Approach To Garbadale' by Iain M. Banks tells the story of Alban McGill, a young man from the wealthy Wopuld family who becomes entangled in a family dispute over selling their game business to an American corporation. As Alban reconnects with his family, particularly his first love and cousin Sophie, secrets from his past and the reasons behind his mother's suicide are revealed. The narrative weaves between past and present, exploring complex family dynamics, personal struggles, and the impact of corporate decisions on familial relationships.

    Banks' writing style in this book is characterized by intricate plotting, engaging characters with internal conflicts, and unexpected twists that keep readers guessing until the final pages. The story unfolds gradually, building tension and suspense as Alban navigates his relationships, confronts family secrets, and grapples with his own emotions and past decisions. The novel delves into themes of family loyalty, love, betrayal, and the complexities of personal identity within the backdrop of a multigenerational family saga.

    His name is Fielding Wopuld. Of those Wopulds, the games family, the people with their name plastered all over the board of Empire! (still the UK’s best-selling board game, by some margin). They’re be...
    2005
    393 pages

  4. #4

    The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
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    A one-of-a-kind tale for romance fans who like a dash of sci-fi and emotional complexity; maddening for readers who want flawless logic or more independent characters.

    'The Time Traveler's Wife' by Audrey Niffenegger is a unique love story that intertwines the lives of Henry, a man who involuntarily travels through time, and Clare, his wife who meets him at different stages of his life. The narrative is structured around their meetings in both real time and time travel, creating a complex yet emotionally engaging storyline. The author skillfully explores themes of love, loss, and relationships through the lens of time travel, offering a mix of romance and science fiction elements. Readers are taken on a journey through different timelines, experiencing the joys and sorrows that come with the challenges of time travel.

    The writing style of 'The Time Traveler's Wife' is praised for its emotional depth and intricate storytelling. The novel alternates between the perspectives of Henry and Clare, providing insight into their thoughts and feelings as they navigate the complexities of their unusual relationship. The author's ability to capture the essence of love and longing, along with vivid descriptions of Chicago and the characters' emotional journeys, immerses readers in a world where time is fluid and love transcends all boundaries.

    Clare: The first time it happens Henry is away. It's the eighth week of the pregnancy. The baby is the size of a plum, has a face and hands and a beating heart. It is early evening, early summer, and...
    January 2003
    560 pages

  5. #5

    The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
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    A dazzling tour of longing, illusion, and the dark flip side of the American Dream - The Great Gatsby is short, stylish, endlessly discussed, and a classic for good reason. Worth reading at least once, especially if you like your stories with a splash of champagne and an undercurrent of heartbreak.

    "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a classic American novel set in the 1920s, depicting the excesses and struggles of the Jazz Age. The story follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby who transforms himself to win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan, showcasing themes of the corrupting influence of wealth and the elusive nature of the American Dream. Fitzgerald's writing style is praised for its clear, melodious prose with engaging rhythm, and the book is noted for its rich symbolism and portrayal of flawed and complex characters.

    He didn’t say any more, but we’ve always been unusually communicative in a reserved way, and I understood that he meant a great deal more than that. In consequence, I’m inclined to reserve all judgmen...
    June 1920
    201 pages

  6. #6

    Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
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    A haunting, one-of-a-kind classic full of passion, vengeance, and unforgettable atmosphere - unapologetically intense, occasionally frustrating, and definitely not your typical love story.

    "Wuthering Heights" by Emily Bronte is a dark and complex tale of a convoluted and tragic love story between Heathcliff and Catherine. Set against the haunting moors of England, the novel blurs the line between passion and obsession, delving into themes of vengeance, societal expectations, and human nature. The book portrays a cast of flawed and complex characters, with relationships marred by cruelty, revenge, and unfulfilled desires. The writing style is described as gothic, mysterious, and enthralling, with a moody atmosphere that matches the bleak setting of the moors.

    The narrative unfolds through multiple generations, showcasing the consequences of love and revenge that reverberate through time. Despite the challenging writing style and complex characters, the story captivates readers with its haunting and chilling portrayal of characters not likely to be called sane in the modern world. The book challenges traditional values and beliefs, questioning the dark side of English and Western culture, making readers reflect on psychological and gothic elements in the narrative.

    1801.—I have just returned from a visit to my landlord—the solitary neighbour that I shall be troubled with. This is certainly a beautiful country! In all England, I do not believe that I could have f...
    1847
    448 pages

  7. #7

    The Girls at the Kingfisher Club by Genevieve Valentine
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    A sparkling, moody Jazz Age fairy tale about sisterhood, freedom, and dancing out from under oppression - charming, quick, and bittersweet, even if not every sister gets her moment to shine.

    'The Girls at the Kingfisher Club' by Genevieve Valentine is a historical reimagining of the fairy tale of the Twelve Dancing Princesses set in New York during the Roaring 20s. The story follows Jo, known as 'The General,' the oldest of 12 sisters, who sneaks her siblings out to dance clubs to escape their controlling father. The book delves into themes of sisterhood, rebellion, and freedom as the sisters navigate their sheltered lives and strive for independence, all while embracing the jazz age culture of speakeasies and bootleggers.

    The narrative of 'The Girls at the Kingfisher Club' is praised for its enchanting storytelling that captures the essence of a fairy tale in a realistic and historical setting. Genevieve Valentine's writing style is described as magical, with a flowing prose that paints a vivid picture of 1920s New York and the lives of the 12 sisters. The book explores complex family dynamics, female empowerment, and societal constraints, all woven together with a touch of romance and a strong focus on the bonds of sisterhood.

    The men would have called them anything they wanted to be called, Dollface or Queenie or Beloved, just to get one girl on the dance floor for a song. But in that flurry of short dresses and spangles a...
    June 2014
    289 pages

  8. #8
    Speak Low
    Book 2 in the series:Speak Easy

    Speak Low - Speak Easy by Melanie Harlow
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    'Speak Low' by Melanie Harlow continues the story of Tiny O'Mara and Joey Lupo, delving deeper into their complex relationship amidst the backdrop of 1920s prohibition and organized crime. Readers are immersed in a tale of love, lust, danger, and difficult choices as Tiny navigates between her feelings for Enzo DiFiore and the newfound passion she shares with Joey. The novel skillfully weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and historical fiction, captivating readers with its vivid descriptions of the era and engaging writing style that brings the characters to life.

    The narrative unfolds with Tiny's journey towards independence and self-discovery, as she grapples with loyalty to her family, her desires, and the conflicting offers from Enzo and Joey. As the tension rises and unexpected events unfold, readers are taken on a thrilling ride filled with twists, betrayals, and steamy encounters. Harlow's storytelling shines as she explores themes of bravery, independence, and the complexities of relationships, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the gripping conclusion of the novel.

    October 2013
    310 pages

    (Also, see 11 recommendations for the series Speak Easy )

  9. #9
    Speak Easy
    Book 1 in the series:Speak Easy

    Speak Easy - Speak Easy by Melanie Harlow
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    Sexy, suspenseful, and absolutely addictive - come for the flappers, stay for the feels. “Speak Easy” is a rollicking ride through 1920s Detroit that will keep you up way past your bedtime.

    'Speak Easy' by Melanie Harlow is a thrilling New Adult Historical fiction set during the prohibition era. The story follows Tiny O'Mara, a strong-willed young woman who is involved in bootlegging whiskey to support her family. When her father gets kidnapped by a mobster, Tiny finds herself caught in a dangerous web of crime, love, and betrayal. As she navigates through steamy love triangles and risky situations, Tiny's character shines as a brave and determined flapper who will do anything to save her family and follow her dreams of becoming a nurse. The book is praised for its originality, vivid writing style, and the perfect blend of adventure, suspense, drama, and romance.

    July 2013
    328 pages

  10. #10

    Wild Women and the Blues by Denny S Bryce
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    A lush and gripping Jazz Age tale that resonates with emotion and history - even if the dual timeline doesn't hit for all, it’s a must-read for lovers of character-driven, atmospheric historical fiction.

    Wild Women and the Blues by Denny S Bryce is a historical fiction novel set in 1920s Chicago, capturing the vibrant yet dangerous Jazz Age. The story follows Honoree Dalcour, a jazz dancer with fierce ambition and a vulnerable side, as she navigates the struggles and violence of her time, including racketeering and mob activity. The plot includes a parallel storyline featuring Sawyer, a film student who seeks to uncover Honoree's secrets, adding depth and emotion. Bryce's writing style immerses readers in the era, using vivid descriptions that bring the music and atmosphere to life, while the dual timelines keep the story engaging and layered.

    March 2021

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