Books matching: themes of loyalty and betrayal
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- #1
Save:Among Thieves by Douglas Hulick is a fast-paced fantasy novel set in the seedy underbelly of the Empire, particularly in a district called Ten Ways. The story follows Drothe, a nose (information gatherer) working for a crime boss, as he gets entangled in a gang war and a hunt for a mysterious book that could bring down the empire. The plot is filled with twists and turns, intricate character relationships, and elements of medieval spy fiction and swashbuckling action. The world-building is unique, incorporating elements of magic and a complex political hierarchy within the criminal underworld.
The narrative is written in the first person perspective of Drothe, allowing readers to delve into a world of intrigue, insane emperors, devious thieves, and shadow princes. The characters, especially Drothe and his sworn partner Degan, are well-drawn and engaging, adding depth to the story. The writing style is dynamic, featuring witty dialogue, natural-sounding conversations, and humor interspersed with thrilling fight scenes and suspenseful action sequences.
“Athel,” I said. Nothing. I slapped the smuggler lightly on his sweaty cheek. “Hey, Athel.” His eyelids fluttered once. I wove my fingers into his hair, took hold, and raised his head so he could see ... - #2
Save:Inferno, the second book in the 'Blood for Blood' series by Catherine Doyle, delves deeper into the Mafia world as protagonist Sophie navigates the dangerous and violent underworld. The plot is unceasingly exciting, gripping, and unpredictable, with countless twists and turns as the Falcones and Marinos engage in a blood feud, putting Sophie and her mother in the crossfire. The writing style is immersive, with scenes that evoke a range of emotions from happiness to terror, betrayal, courage, grief, and anxiety, making the far-fetched premise seem realistic. The characters, especially Luca and Millie, shine in this novel, with their relationships and development adding depth and intrigue to the story.
The book explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, vengeance, passion, and heartache against the backdrop of the Mafia world. The author expertly weaves together a dark and action-packed narrative, maintaining a perfect pace that keeps readers engaged throughout. The dialogue is punchy, the pacing is spot-on, and the story unfolds like an intense action movie, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Gently she laid a hand on my shoulder. The game was omertà and the objective was not to get killed for snitching. The word flashed in my head like a neon sign: omertà, omertà, omertà. The vow of silen...
(Also, see 45 recommendations for the series Blood for Blood ) - #3
Save:Set in a future where human worlds are organized in two empires - the Old Empire and the New Empire, both ruled by immortal emperors who have sworn to respect the interests of the guild of Webbers, 'A Matter of Oaths' is a space opera filled with political intrigue, lost identities, love, and emperors. The story follows Rafe, an amnesiac webber with a mysterious past, as he joins the crew of the patrol ship Bhattya and becomes entangled in events that threaten the stability of the galaxy. With elements of cyberpunk, queer romance, and complex character dynamics, the narrative unfolds through a mix of action-packed sequences and detailed world-building.
The writing style of 'A Matter of Oaths' is described as tight, fast-paced, and wholly enjoyable, with engaging main characters, twists and turns that keep the pages turning, and a satisfying ending that leaves readers wanting more. The book delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of breaking oaths, all set against a backdrop of intergalactic power struggles and technological advancements that shape the future of the universe.
That I will serve my people to the best of my ability, in every way that I am able to serve, respecting their beliefs and taking responsibility for their well-being, and causing no harm to any unless ... - #4
Save:'The Ascent' by Ronald Malfi follows the story of Tim Overleigh, a sculptor who, after facing personal trauma in his life, is invited on a climbing expedition in the Himalayas by an old friend of his wife. Tim joins a team of climbers connected to his wife's friend, Andrew, and embarks on a perilous journey to find the mythical Canyon of Souls. As the expedition progresses, Tim's past, extreme sporting adventures, and the supernatural elements of the story intertwine, leading to a fight for survival and a quest for self-discovery. Malfi's writing style vividly brings to life the characters, the treacherous mountain setting, and the suspenseful plot, creating a thrilling and engaging reading experience.
- #5
Save:Dividing Eden by Joelle Charbonneau follows the story of twin heirs, Carys and Andreus, who are forced into a competition for the throne of Eden after the assassination of their father and older brother. The Trial of Succession tests their bond as lies, betrayal, and a thirst for power push them apart. The book captivates readers with its versatile writing style, complex characters, and a twisted plot that keeps them hooked from the opening pages. The story delves into themes of loyalty, family bonds, and the corrupting nature of power, culminating in a tale of intrigue and mystery set in a fantasy world filled with secrets and challenges.
Back when they were young, her brother loved pointing out the women carrying trays of bread through one of the city’s squares—or the commoners’ children chasing each other, laughter echoing through th... - #6
Save:'The Court of Miracles' by Kester Grant is a young adult book that takes inspiration from Les Misérables, set in an alternate history of France. The story follows Nina, a member of the Thieves Guild in the criminal underworld of the Miracle Court, as she navigates through a world filled with revolutionaries, strict laws, and a mission to save her sister and ward. The book combines elements of fantasy with a reimagining of classic characters and settings, offering a dark and violent narrative with a focus on strong female characters.
It is before dawn, dark and silent. The corpses of the starved have been laid out on the cobblestones overnight, waiting for the carts to bear them away. The dead are wide-eyed, unhearing, uncaring, u... - #7
Save:Red Widow by Alma Katsu is an espionage mystery that delves into the world of CIA operations and internal investigations. The story follows Lyndsey Duncan, a CIA operative tasked with uncovering a mole within the agency after three Russian assets are killed. The plot unfolds slowly, teasing readers with clues and surprises while exploring themes of betrayal, loyalty, and national security. Katsu's writing style is described as realistic and engaging, drawing on her own experience as an intelligence analyst to craft a compelling narrative that reveals human weaknesses and consequences.
- #8
Save:"The Paladin" by George Shipway is a historical novel set during the Norman conflicts in the period of William the Conqueror's decline and the power struggles among his sons. The book is praised for its good characterizations, exciting battle scenes, and intricate political intrigue of the troubled times. However, some readers found the graphic descriptions of torture and torment elements excessive, while others were disappointed by the lack of closure in the story and the overwhelming use of archaic terms and battles.
- #9
Save:'The Penelopiad' by Margaret Atwood is a retelling of the myth of Penelope from Homer's Odyssey, narrated by Penelope herself from the Underworld in present day. The book provides a cleverly told autobiography, focusing on Penelope's perspective on Odysseus' adventures and the twelve maids hanged by Odysseus, who act as a traditional Greek chorus. Atwood's unique take on the story includes the theory that Penelope had the maids act as spies, adding a fascinating new dimension to this old tale.
The narrative of 'The Penelopiad' offers a fresh and feminist perspective on the classic Greek myth, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the struggles faced by Penelope during Odysseus' absence. Through a combination of prose, verse, and chorus elements, Atwood weaves a story that delves into the inner thoughts and emotions of Penelope, shedding light on her character and the challenges she faced while waiting for her husband's return.
Now that I’m dead I know everything. This is what I wished would happen, but like so many of my wishes it failed to come true. I know only a few factoids that I didn’t know before. Death is much too h... - #10
Save:'Devil's Game' by Joanna Wylde is the third book in the Reapers Motorcycle Club series, focusing on the characters of Emma Heyes and Liam (Hunter). The story follows Emma, the daughter of the Reapers MC President, as she navigates her complicated relationship with Liam, a member of the Devil's Jacks MC. The plot revolves around the challenges they face due to their affiliations with rival clubs, family loyalties, and personal demons, all while trying to find their own version of happiness. The writing style is described as action-filled, gritty, and entertaining, with a focus on strong character development, especially in depicting Emma as a feisty and independent protagonist.
“You don’t know any women at all, do you?” I asked, cracking open a Mountain Dew. We’d driven all night to get here from Portland. What I really wanted was sleep, but Burke’s orders were clear. Scope ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Reapers MC )
