Meet New Books

Books matching: struggle for recognition

40 result(s)

Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 40 
  1. #1

    The Sword & the Sheath - Khamsin: Warriors of the Wind by Bonnie Vanak
    Save:

    A lush, fast-paced desert romance with a swoon-worthy setting and moments of real empowerment, even if the leads’ chemistry sometimes tips into cliché. Worth picking up if you love spirited heroines, sheikh romances, and steamy drama - even if it gives you a few hair-pulling moments along the way!

    In "The Sword & the Sheath," Fatima, the daughter of Ramses bin Asad Sharif, dreams of becoming a Khamsin warrior despite the ban on females in such roles. Her obsession to keep her people safe drives her to prove her abilities and use her gift of foreseeing events. The story unfolds in a fast-paced manner filled with action and adventure, set in a historical Sahara Desert backdrop. The narrative delves into themes of female empowerment, love, and the struggle between traditional roles and personal aspirations, creating a vivid and entertaining tale.

    Fatima's journey as she navigates societal expectations, her desire to become a warrior, and her evolving relationship with Tarik are central to the plot. The book portrays a unique heroine who challenges gender norms and societal constraints, offering readers a blend of romance, suspense, and historical context. The writing style captures the essence of the early 20th-century Egyptian society, weaving together themes of love, friendship, and personal growth amidst a backdrop of tribal honor and familial expectations.

    At eleven, the only son of Jabari bin Tarik Hassid radiated confidence. His mother, Elizabeth, said he could "charm the wool off a sheep." Bold and intrepid, Tarik always thought of the best places to...
    2007
    345 pages

    (Also, see 2 recommendations for the series Khamsin: Warriors of the Wind )

  2. #2

    Bloomsbury Girls by Natalie Jenner
    Save:

    A warm, engaging read with memorable characters and a heart for book lovers - ideal if you’re craving a quietly triumphant historical novel with strong women at its center.

    'Bloomsbury Girls' by Natalie Jenner is a well-written novel set in post-war London, focusing on the lives of three women, Grace, Vivien, and Evie, who work at a bookstore in the Bloomsbury section of London. The story delves into the challenges faced by women in the 1950s, intertwining fictional and non-fictional characters seamlessly. The plot development is creative and connected to historical events, offering a glimpse into the themes of women's and civil rights, British class distinctions, and the impact of the war on societal norms.

    The writing style of 'Bloomsbury Girls' is engaging, with great character development that allows readers to connect with the relatable issues each main character is dealing with. The narrative takes its time to explore the characters' journeys as they come together to support one another, take risks, and open their hearts. immerses readers in post-war London, with vivid descriptions of the challenges of the time, making it a satisfying and enjoyable read.

    Grace looked up from her small desk at the rear of the shop. Here she marshalled all manner of what the bookshop staff called couches: the piles of letters, requests, adverts, journals, newspapers, tr...
    May 2022
    378 pages

  3. #3
    The Surgeon
    Book 1 in the series:Rizzoli & Isles

    The Surgeon - Rizzoli & Isles by Tess Gerritsen
    Save:

    A gripping, grisly medical thriller that's perfect for fans of dark crime novels and breakneck suspense - but definitely not for the faint of heart.

    A serial killer is on the loose in Boston, targeting women in a gruesome manner, and the detectives are racing against time to catch him. The story follows Detective Jane Rizzoli and the hunt for the killer, known as 'The Surgeon', who leaves behind a trail of horror and fear. The book delves into the minds of both the cops and the killer, creating a tense and suspenseful atmosphere. With detailed medical descriptions and a touch of romance, the plot unfolds with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged until the end.

    The book introduces readers to the Rizzoli & Isles series, with 'The Surgeon' being the first installment in the gripping police procedural series. It showcases the dynamics between the detectives, the intensity of the investigation, and the chilling nature of the crimes. Tess Gerritsen's writing style weaves together a narrative that is both gritty and fast-paced, drawing on her medical knowledge to add authenticity to the story. As the hunt for the killer intensifies, the characters are brought to life, making readers eager to explore more of the series.

    I know how it will happen. I can picture, quite vividly, the sequence of events that will lead to the discovery. By nine o'clock, those snooty ladies at the Kendall and Lord Travel Agency will be sitt...
    2001
    411 pages

  4. #4

    Matilda: Empress, Queen, Warrior by Catherine Hanley
    Save:

    A well-researched, lively biography that brings Empress Matilda to life - great for anyone curious about forgotten women’s history, unless you dislike modern interpretations in your medieval tales.

    'Matilda: Empress, Queen, Warrior' by Catherine Hanley is a well-researched biography that sheds light on the life of Matilda, an often overlooked figure in English history. The book delves into Matilda's role during The Anarchy, her struggles as a high-born woman in a male-dominated society, and her eventual impact on medieval power politics. Hanley's writing style is described as clear, detailed, and informative, bringing Matilda to life and portraying her in a more nuanced light than traditional historical accounts.

    ON A COLD FEBRUARY DAY in the year 1110, a young girl stood looking out over the English Channel. The sky and the sea were no doubt grey, the coastal wind sharp and biting; perhaps she pulled her cloa...
    April 2019
    299 pages

  5. A lively, approachable tour through the history of precision engineering - highly recommended for anyone curious about the hidden forces shaping our modern world, though technical purists may wish for a bit more rigor.

    'The Perfectionists: How Precision Engineers Created the Modern World' by Simon Winchester explores the history of precision engineering and its impact on shaping the modern world. Winchester delves into the development of precision in various fields, from manufacturing techniques to scientific advancements, showcasing the importance of accuracy and measurement in technological progress. Through engaging narratives and detailed accounts of influential engineers and inventions, the book highlights the evolution of precision engineering and its crucial role in revolutionizing industries and technologies.

    The man who by the common consent of the engineering fraternity is regarded as the father of true precision was an eighteenth-century Englishman named John Wilkinson, who was denounced sardonically as...
    May 2018
    439 pages

  6. #6

    Peony in Love by Lisa See
    Save:

    A richly imagined, dreamlike story that blends romance, history, and the supernatural. Not everyone's style, but a poignant exploration of love and the power of women's voices for readers who appreciate immersive, lyrical historical fiction.

    In 17th century China, 'Peony in Love' tells the haunting tale of a young girl named Peony, who starves herself to death for love after being betrothed to a stranger. From the afterlife, Peony becomes a ghost, influencing the lives of those she left behind and embarking on an epic journey through the traditions of death and burial in ancient China. The novel delves into Chinese beliefs surrounding birth, life, love, marriage, and the afterlife, while also exploring themes of women's struggles for recognition and equality in a society that valued tradition and duty above all else.

    Willow sat up and rubbed her eyes. When she saw me staring at her, she scrambled to her feet and offered good wishes. I felt another flutter of anticipation, so I was particular when Willow bathed me,...
    June 2007
    448 pages

  7. #7

    Calling Invisible Women by Jeanne Ray
    Save:

    A light, clever, and witty take on midlife invisibility - perfect for a feel-good weekend read, but don’t expect life-changing revelations.

    "Calling Invisible Women" by Jeanne Ray tells the story of Clover Hobart, a middle-aged woman who suddenly becomes invisible to everyone around her. Despite her family and friends not noticing her disappearance, one close friend does. The story unfolds as Clover navigates her newfound invisibility, embarking on adventures and discovering a sense of awareness that empowers her. explores themes of invisibility, perception versus reality, and the struggles faced by women of a certain age in society.

    I first noticed I was missing on a Thursday. Red and I had already been for our walk and he went to sleep on the bath mat while I was taking my shower. Red is a Cairn terrier. He’s bath mat size. Afte...
    May 2012
    268 pages

  8. #8

    Washington Black by Esi Edugyan
    Save:

    A beautifully written, genre-blurring adventure with big ideas about freedom, identity, and belonging. A must-read for fans of literary historical fiction - just be ready to suspend a little disbelief along the way.

    Washington Black by Esi Edugyan is a historical fiction novel that follows the journey of a young slave boy named Washington Black on a sugar plantation in Barbados. The story revolves around his escape from slavery, his adventures across various continents, and his exploration of themes such as freedom, human relationships, and the impact of slavery. The narrative blends elements of magical realism and fantastical adventures, taking readers on a journey from Barbados to Virginia, Nova Scotia, London, Africa, and Morocco. The book delves into the complexities of societal structures, the brutality of slavery, and the quest for identity and agency in a world filled with challenges.

    The novel is praised for its intricate storytelling, vivid descriptions, and the exploration of significant themes such as the nature of relationships, human resilience, and the pursuit of freedom. Through the character of Washington Black, the author delves into the emotional and psychological struggles faced by individuals living in a world marked by slavery and oppression. The book offers a unique perspective on historical events, blending realism with elements of fantasy to create a compelling narrative that challenges readers to reflect on the complexities of human experiences and societal structures.

    No one grieved him; in the fields we hung our heads, keening, grieving for ourselves and the estate sale that must follow. He died very old. I saw him only at a distance: stooped, thin, asleep in a sh...
    September 2018
    386 pages

  9. #9

    Lab Girl by Hope Jahren
    Save:

    Lab Girl is a beautifully written, unique blend of memoir and science that will make you see the natural world - and the people who study it - with new appreciation. It's imperfect, but its genuine wonder and honesty easily outweigh its flaws.

    'Lab Girl' by Hope Jahren is a memoir that takes readers on a journey through the life of a female scientist, specifically a botanist, sharing her experiences in the world of science research. The author alternates between personal chapters and musings about plant life, creating a narrative that is both educational and humorous. Jahren's writing style is described as refreshing, honest, and inspiring, as she delves into topics such as the struggles of being a woman in a male-dominated field, the wonders of plant biology, and the challenges of scientific research.

    THERE IS NOTHING in the world more perfect than a slide rule. Its burnished aluminum feels cool against your lips, and if you hold it level to the light you can see God’s most perfect right angle in e...
    April 2016
    376 pages

  10. #10

    The Italian Teacher by Tom Rachman
    Save:

    A deeply-written, resonant portrait of a son's bumpy ride through the shadow of genius - sometimes sad, often funny, and always authentic. Not for everyone, but a rewarding read if family sagas and art-world intrigue call to you.

    The Italian Teacher by Tom Rachman follows the life of Charles Pinch Bavinsky, a son overshadowed by his famous artist father, Bear Bavinsky. The book delves into the protagonist's perpetual struggle to gain his father's approval and recognition, showcasing the dynamics of their relationship through various life stages. The narrative is described as a poignant exploration of family dynamics, poor parenting, and the quest for validation, set against the backdrop of the commercial art world.

    The storytelling in The Italian Teacher is praised for its authenticity, making the characters feel remarkably real despite being a work of fiction. The book is noted for its well-crafted plot that unfolds through multiple stages of Pinch's life, capturing the nuances of his relationships and career choices. Additionally, the unexpected ending is highlighted as a standout feature that adds depth to the narrative, leaving readers intrigued and satisfied.

    Seated in a copper bathtub, Bear Bavinsky dunks his head under steaming water and shakes out his beard, flinging droplets across the art studio. He thumbs a bolt of shag into his pipe and flicks a bra...
    March 2018
    394 pages

Page 1 of 4Next Page