Books matching: sharp, witty dialogue
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- #1
'The Thin Man' by Dashiell Hammett is a hard-boiled noir mystery classic that centers on Nick Charles, a former PI, and his wife Nora Charles. The couple is reluctantly pulled into a murder case involving an old client, leading them to investigate a wealthy inventor's disappearance and his secretary's murder. Set in the 1930s New York, the story unfolds through witty banter, dialogue-driven narrative, and a tangled web of clues and half-truths that Nick navigates to solve the mystery. portrays Nick as a streetwise detective with a sophisticated edge, while Nora's character, though underused, adds depth to the storyline.
The narrative captures the essence of the era with its portrayal of speakeasies, parties, hard-nosed cops, and a complex plot that keeps the reader engaged. Despite some dated elements and differences from the movie adaptations, 'The Thin Man' is praised for its clean prose, character development, and the chemistry between Nick and Nora Charles. The novel offers a blend of mystery, comedy, and suspense, providing a fast-paced and entertaining read that showcases Hammett's skill in crafting a classic detective story with a unique twist.
1 I was leaning against the bar in a speakeasy on Fifty-second Street, waiting for Nora to finish her Christmas shopping, when a girl got up from the table where she had been sitting with three other ... - #2
Chinaman's Chance by Ross Thomas is a novel that follows the adventures of Artie Wu and Quincy Durant, two con men who are hired to find a missing singer and avenge a CIA betrayal. The story is a mix of spy novel and mystery, set in the 70s with a groovy detective fiction atmosphere. The plot revolves around the search for hidden money in Vietnam and the disappearance of a famous singer, all delivered in a free-flowing and interesting manner that drags the reader right in.
Ross Thomas's writing style in Chinaman's Chance is characterized by well-developed characters, witty dialogue, and intriguing plot twists. The book combines elements of classic noir detective fiction with a modern sensibility, similar to works like Inherent Vice and The Long Goodbye, creating a unique and entertaining reading experience.
The pretender to the Emperor’s throne was a fat thirty-seven-year-old Chinaman called Artie Wu who always jogged along Malibu Beach right after dawn even in summer, when dawn came round as early as 4:... - #3
In 'The Case of the Gilded Fly', the first book in the Gervase Fen mystery series by Edmund Crispin, the story revolves around the murder of an unpopular actress in Oxford. The plot unfolds in the midst of a theatre company where the victim, Yseut Haskell, is found dead in a fan's bedroom with seemingly impossible circumstances surrounding the crime. English professor and amateur detective Gervase Fen steps in to solve the murder, delving into a closed room mystery with intricate character dynamics, literary allusions, and a touch of dark humor. The narrative is rich in dialogue, intellectual banter, and academic settings, creating a unique blend of classic English literature and murder mystery.
The book showcases Crispin's witty and erudite writing style, drawing readers into a world of complex characters, intricate plots, and clever wordplay. The story is filled with references to classic literature and Oxford academia, adding layers of depth to the narrative and challenging readers to unravel the mystery alongside the eccentric detective, Gervase Fen.
To the unwarytraveller, Didcot signifies the imminence of his arrival at Oxford; to the more experienced, another half-hour at least of frustration: And travellers in general are divided into these tw... - #4
'Pictures From an Institution' by Randall Jarrell is a witty and caustic satire set in a women's liberal arts college in the 1950s. The plot revolves around the interactions and observations of the characters, particularly the successful novelist Gertrude and the composer Gottfried, as seen through the eyes of an unnamed faculty member. Through sharp wit and humor, the author paints a vivid picture of academic life, poking fun at the pretentiousness and absurdities of the academic world while delving into themes of intellectual vanity, human pretense, and the complexities of human nature.
HALF THE campus was designed by Bottom the Weaver, half by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe; Benton had been endowed with one to begin with, and had smiled and sweated and spoken for the other. A visitor look... - #5
In "Mother's Milk," the fourth installment in "The Patrick Melrose Novels" series by Edward St. Aubyn, the story revolves around Patrick Melrose, a London barrister dealing with the challenges of fatherhood and marriage while navigating the complexities of his relationships with his wife Mary, his two sons, and his ailing mother Eleanor. The narrative unfolds through multiple viewpoints, offering insights into themes of parenting, adultery, sibling rivalry, and the impact of dysfunctional family dynamics on individuals. St. Aubyn's writing style delves into the characters' inner struggles and interpersonal conflicts with a blend of humor, wit, and sharp observations, creating a poignant portrayal of family life and personal growth.
The novel intricately explores the characters' psychological complexities, delving into themes of self-discovery, sacrifice, and the intricacies of familial relationships. Through vivid descriptions and introspective narratives, St. Aubyn weaves a compelling tale of human emotions, addressing issues of identity, legacy, and the challenges of reconciling past traumas with present realities. The book's narrative structure, alternating between different family members' perspectives, offers a nuanced understanding of the characters' motivations and struggles, painting a vivid portrait of a family grappling with its past and present dynamics.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Patrick Melrose Novels ) - #6
'The Other Daughter' by Lauren Willig is a historical fiction novel set in the 1920s, following the story of Rachel Woodley who discovers that her father, believed to be dead, is actually an Earl with another family. Feeling betrayed, Rachel decides to confront him by posing as socialite Vera Merton with the help of a family friend, Simon. As Vera, Rachel navigates the world of the Bright Young Things, meets her half sister, and uncovers family secrets. The book is praised for its engaging plot filled with deceit, revenge, and a hint of romance, capturing the lingo and lifestyle of the rich and famous during that era.
The story explores themes of family secrets, revenge, and loyalty, as Rachel delves into the world of the upper class in England, discovering unexpected twists and relationships along the way. The book is described as a light, entertaining read with likable characters and engaging interactions, offering a blend of historical fiction, romance, and intrigue that keeps readers hooked until the end.
The girls were meant to speak English when they were with her; the countess had been very clear about that. If it was a rule Rachel enforced somewhat selectively, that, she decided, was a matter for h... - #7
'Cotillion' by Georgette Heyer is a Regency romance novel that follows the story of Kitty Charing, an heiress who is expected to marry one of her guardian's nephews in order to inherit his fortune. Kitty, a headstrong young woman, refuses the proposals of her cousins and instead convinces her cousin Freddy to pose as her betrothed. As they navigate through a series of misunderstandings and scrapes in London, Kitty and Freddy find themselves in a sham engagement that leads to unexpected twists and turns, ultimately culminating in a satisfying and sweet ending. is praised for its witty language, charming characters, and entertaining plot that keeps readers engaged until the last page.
The Saloon, like every other room in Arnside House, was large and lofty, and had been furnished, possibly some twenty years earlier, in what had then been the first style of elegance. This, however, h... - #8
To Have and To Hoax by Martha Waters is a Regency romantic comedy novel that follows Lady Violet Grey and Lord James Audley, a couple who fell in love five years ago but have been estranged for the past four years due to a misunderstanding. Determined to end their stalemate, Lady Violet devises a plan involving pretending to be ill, leading to a series of miscommunications, missteps, and hilarious schemes in attempts to rekindle their romance. The book is filled with witty banter, charming characters, and a plot that explores the complexities of marriage and trust in a lighthearted and fun manner.
To Love and To Loathe is definitely the better book with lovely secondary characters, well-written love scenes, and a story about two people in love who have lost trust in each other but need to find their way back through hilarious tricks and schemes. The writing style is described as fun, sharp, and sassy, capturing the verbal jousting of polite society in the Regency period. The book offers a refreshing take on a married couple's relationship post-Happily Ever After, with an exciting cast of supporting characters that add depth to the story.
“Really, Violet,” said Diana, Lady Templeton, reaching for the teapot. “Allow me.” Given Diana’s disinclination to exert herself when it was not strictly necessary, this was an indication of dire stra... - #9
Hold Me by Courtney Milan is a smart New Adult romance novel set in the Cyclone series, focusing on the characters Jay and Maria. The plot revolves around Maria, who runs a blog about post-apocalyptic scenarios and maintains an anonymous online relationship with a commenter named Jay, who is actually a wealthy scientist. When they meet in person, they clash due to misunderstandings but are unaware of their online connection. The book explores themes of bisexuality, transgender identity, academia, online relationships, and personal growth, all wrapped in witty banter and emotional depth.
Instead, my brother is running late—no surprise, as he plays the role of absentminded scientist a little too well. He double-booked dinner tonight. He forgot that he was supposed to find me after my c... - #10
Cassie, a former theatre actress turned runner for a TV show, is thrust into a fake relationship with actor Jack Hale after being photographed together. Despite Jack's hostile behavior, Cassie softens him up and helps him trust in their relationship. The book delves into themes of workplace challenges for women, MeToo movement, social media backlash, and building trust in a relationship while navigating the entertainment industry.
The story of 'The Love Act' by Zara Bell is a beautifully written slow burn romance that explores the complexities of fake dating and celebrity life. The characters, Cassie and Jack, are portrayed realistically as they cope with trauma, anxiety, and learning to trust each other amidst the pressures of their public personas.
“My life is over,” she gulps into my shoulder. Mascara drips off her chin and dribbles down her shirt. She’s cried her own little Alice-in-Wonderland puddle on the carpet tile floor. The storeroom dow...