Books matching: relentless pacing
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:A breathtaking, ambitious tale of survival, destiny, and gender set against the backdrop of imperial China - with beautiful prose, unforgettable characters, and plenty of twists. Not a light read, but perfect for anyone craving queer, character-driven epic fantasy with real historical depth.
'She Who Became the Sun' by Shelley Parker Chan is a historical fantasy novel set in 14th century China under Mongol rule. The story follows Zhu, a girl who takes on her deceased brother's identity to escape a fate of insignificance and embarks on a journey to claim greatness. The narrative weaves themes of ambition, identity, and destiny, portraying Zhu's struggle against societal expectations and her desire for power and revenge. The book combines elements of fantasy, Asian culture, and historical events, creating a rich and immersive world where characters face moral dilemmas and challenges that test their resolve.
Zhongli village lay flattened under the sun like a defeated dog that has given up on finding shade. All around there was nothing but the bare yellow earth, cracked into the pattern of a turtle’s shell...July 2021•414 pages - #2
Save:Runner is a high-octane, emotional thrill ride - perfect for anyone who craves relentless suspense with a dash of sci-fi intrigue. Get ready to lose sleep.
In "Runner" by Patrick Lee, the story follows ex-special ops soldier Sam Dryden who becomes entangled in a thrilling adventure when he saves a young girl, Rachel, who is being chased by armed men. As they try to uncover the mysteries surrounding Rachel's special abilities and her past, they are thrust into a dangerous journey filled with action, government conspiracies, and unexpected twists. The fast-paced plot, engaging characters, and unique writing style keep readers on the edge of their seats, making it a gripping and suspenseful read.
The book seamlessly blends elements of action, suspense, and science fiction, creating a captivating narrative that explores themes of friendship, redemption, and the resilience of the human spirit. With a mix of intense chase sequences, emotional depth, and intricate plot developments, "Runner" offers a compelling story that keeps readers hooked from start to finish, leaving them eager for more of Sam Dryden's adventures in future installments.
Just after three in the morning, Sam Dryden surrendered the night to insomnia and went running on the boardwalk. Cool humidity clung to him and filtered the lights of El Sedero to his left, the town s...February 2014•332 pages - #3
Save:A nail-biting, emotional sequel that ups the stakes and keeps the adrenaline high - even if the family drama and plot contrivances aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. Best enjoyed after reading 'Stillhouse Lake.'
'Killman Creek' by Rachel Caine is the second installment in the Stillhouse Lake series. It follows the protagonist, Gwen Proctor, as she faces the threat of her serial killer ex-husband, Melvin Royal, who escapes from prison. The story is filled with suspense, twists, and intense moments as Gwen, along with her children and allies, navigates through danger and uncertainty. is narrated from multiple points of view, adding depth to the characters and enhancing the overall experience for the readers.
On the twelfth night since my ex-husband escaped prison, I am in bed. Not sleeping. Watching the play of light and shadow on the curtains. I’m lying on a narrow foldout cot and feeling every twinge of...December 2017•348 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Stillhouse Lake ) - #4
Save:A thoughtful, layered mystery with a strong sense of place and character - perfect for fans of intelligent, culture-rich crime dramas, but potentially slow-going if you’re after high-octane thrills.
A Death in Tokyo by Keigo Higashino is a compelling detective novel that follows Detective Kyoichiro Kaga as he investigates a murder case in Tokyo. The story is filled with tantalizing clues, complex characters, and a well-plotted puzzle that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The book is praised for its contemplative and intelligent protagonist, detailed descriptions of Tokyo, and character-driven narrative that reveals new clues with every chapter.
The plot revolves around a murder victim who is stabbed, leading to the police chasing a suspicious man who is later killed in a tragic accident. As evidence points towards the deceased suspect, Detective Kaga continues to pursue the case, uncovering multiple layers of incidents and complexities. The book provides insights into Japanese culture and values, with a focus on solving the crime and showcasing the intricate relationships between the characters.
December 2022•366 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Kyoichiro Kaga ) - #5
Save:In the second book of the Parker series, titled 'The Man With The Getaway Face' by Richard Stark, Parker undergoes plastic surgery to change his appearance and escape from The Outfit, a New York mob crew. As he plans an armored truck robbery with new partners, complications arise including a potential double cross and the threat of being exposed by the plastic surgeon's aide. The story unfolds with a mix of noir mystery and thriller elements, showcasing Parker's cold, calculating persona and his relentless pursuit of his criminal goals.
Parker had been at the sanitarium a little over four weeks now. He had come in with a face that the New York syndicate wanted to put a bullet in, and now he was going back out with a face that meant n... - #6
Save:'We Are The Dead' by Mike Shackle is a character-driven fantasy set in a world where the Shulka, once the elite warriors of Jia, face defeat and occupation by the Egril, a rival nation with advanced forces. The story follows four main POVs - Tinnstra, a reluctant warrior from a legendary family; Yas, a single mother forced into action to protect her child; Jax, leader of the remaining Shulka forces; and Dren, a rebellious boy seeking revenge against the Egril. The book intricately weaves together their stories, showcasing their growth, fears, and actions in a fast-paced and action-packed narrative.
The worldbuilding in 'We Are The Dead' is immersive, with detailed descriptions of gods, magic, and warring nations. The plot unfolds rapidly, with relentless action, tension, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged. The writing style is praised for its depth, nuance, and character development, making the book a gripping and unforgettable read for fans of character-focused fantasy.
August 2019•466 pages - #7
Save:'Severed' by Simon Kernick is a fast-paced crime thriller that follows the protagonist, Tyler, an ex-British army paratrooper turned successful used car salesman, who wakes up next to a headless female corpse. Framed for the murder, Tyler is forced into a dangerous game of blackmail and deception, leading to a series of chases, armed violence, and arson. As the plot unfolds, Tyler must navigate through people trafficking and high levels of violence to clear his name and uncover the truth behind the setup. The book is described as testosterone-heavy, filled with action-packed scenes and a high body count, appealing mostly to male readers.
The writing style of 'Severed' is described as non-stop action from start to finish, resembling an action movie in print. The plot is relentless in its speed and drive, with sparse, lean, and economical prose that keeps the reader engaged. The book features short chapters that end in cliffhangers, making it a gripping and entertaining read that is difficult to put down.
July 2007•417 pages - #8
Save:A classic, atmospheric horror novel packed with occult intrigue and memorable chills - ideal for fans of moody, vintage suspense, but not for the faint of heart.
'The Search for Joseph Tully' by William H. Hallahan is a horror novel published in 1974 that follows the intriguing story of genealogy detective work intertwined with elements of the paranormal. The plot revolves around two seemingly unrelated characters: a genealogist tracking an English merchant's offspring during the American War of Independence and a publisher in a condemned apartment block. As the story progresses, the mysteries surrounding events in the Armorer's Forge in Rome in 1498 come to light, connecting the characters in unexpected ways. The writing style is described as gripping, with a fascinating mix of historical elements, paranormal occurrences, and a diverse cast of characters that contribute to an eerie and unsettling atmosphere.
In a semicircle away from the rolling heat of the Catalan forge, the three Italian gentlemen stood. Occasionally they flicked their eyes sidewise from the two blades to the two stripped captives who l...1974•280 pages - #9Runby:
Save:A lightning-quick, nerve-wracking thriller that trades deep explanations for raw momentum - addictive, intense, but not without its rough edges. Perfect for action junkies, but not for those who need all their questions answered by the final page.
'Run' by Blake Crouch follows the harrowing journey of a family trying to survive in a world where people are affected by a mysterious phenomenon, causing chaos and madness. The fast-paced narrative immerses readers in a gripping tale filled with non-stop action, suspense, and heart-wrenching relationships. Despite the relentless pacing, the characters are faced with tough decisions and unexpected dangers, making for a thrilling and adrenaline-fueled read.
THE tattered windsock hangs limp against its pole. Weeds erupt through fissures in the ancient pavement of the runway where she stands, and in the distance, support beams rise from heaps of twisted me...February 2011•297 pages - #10
Save:A satisfying, fast-paced origin story that works as both a jumping-on point and a rewarding return to the Malazan world. Not as dense as Erikson’s work, but packed with action, wit, and memorable characters. Perfect for epic fantasy fans, whether you’re a series veteran or a total newbie.
Dancer's Lament is a prequel set in the Malazan world, chronicling the rise of Dancer and Kellanved, two central characters in the series. The plot revolves around the city of Li Heng under siege, with a focus on three main characters - an assassin seeking fame, a mage realizing his attachment to the city, and a warrior struggling with personal connections. The writing style is described as brisk, energetic, and refreshing for the series, with a tight narrative that is straightforward, focused, and relentless in pace.
May 2016•592 pages
