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Books matching: tragic love story

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  1. #1

    The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
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    'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller is a beautifully written reimagining of the Iliad, focusing on the relationship between Achilles and his companion Patroclus. The story is narrated from Patroclus' perspective, starting from their childhood together and leading up to the events of the Trojan War. Miller's writing style is described as poetic and engaging, bringing the characters and mythological elements to life in a captivating manner.

    MY FATHER WAS A KING AND THE SON OF KINGS. HE was a short man, as most of us were, and built like a bull, all shoulders. He married my mother when she was fourteen and sworn by the priestess to be fru...

  2. #2

    The Lonely Hearts Hotel by Heather O'Neill
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    Set in Montreal during the 1900s, 'The Lonely Hearts Hotel' by Heather O'Neill follows the intertwined journeys of two orphans, Rose and Pierrot, through their highs and lows, despairs, and love. The book is described as a sad and magical fairytale, with a moody, eccentric tale of two people drawn together as though by fate. The story centers around their complementary talents - Pierrot as a piano prodigy and Rose as a choreographer, navigating through the seedy underbelly of Montreal while holding onto their mutual dream of a real show. O'Neill's writing style is praised for its brilliance, rich and thoughtful words, and the unique balance of whimsy and depravity, creating a dark and sometimes magical fairytale experience for the readers.

    The orphanage was on the northern boundary of the city. If you went to where the city ended and then walked two thousand paces, you would come upon the orphanage, although it isn’t there now. It was a...

  3. #3

    The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
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    'The Thorn Birds' by Colleen McCullough is an epic family saga spanning generations, set in the Australian outback. The story revolves around the Cleary family, focusing on the forbidden love between Meggie and Father Ralph, amidst themes of love, loss, and redemption. The author intricately weaves together the lives of vividly described characters, taking readers on a journey through time as they witness the growth and trials of the Cleary family against the backdrop of Australia's rugged landscape.

    The plot of 'The Thorn Birds' is a compelling tale of star-crossed lovers, family dynamics, and the challenges faced by the characters over a span of fifty years. Readers are drawn into the emotional depth of the story, feeling heartbreak, inspiration, and a sense of nostalgia as they follow the characters' journeys from childhood to adulthood. McCullough's writing style is praised for its evocative descriptions, transporting readers to the Australian outback and immersing them in the lives of the Cleary family with a mix of sadness, joy, and historical fiction elements.

    On December 8th, 1915, Meggie Cleary had her fourth birthday. After the breakfast dishes were put away her mother silently thrust a brown paper parcel into her arms and ordered her outside. So Meggie ...

  4. #4

    At Swim, Two Boys by Jamie O'Neill
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    Set in Ireland in 1915-1916, 'At Swim, Two Boys' by Jamie O'Neill follows the story of two teenagers, Jim Mack and Doyler Doyle, as they navigate their friendship, love, and the political unrest culminating in the Easter Rising of 1916. The novel beautifully explores the coming of age of the main characters, their relationships with each other and their families, and the historical background of Ireland during that time. O'Neill's writing style is described as rich, lyrical, and evocative, capturing the essence of Irish dialect and the emotional depth of the characters.

    At the corner of Adelaide Road, where the paving sparkled in the morning sun, Mr. Mack waited by the newspaper stand. A grand day it was, rare and fine. Puff-clouds sailed through a sky of blue. Fairw...

  5. #5

    Miranda and Caliban by Jacqueline Carey
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    'Miranda and Caliban' by Jacqueline Carey is a dark and rich retelling of Shakespeare's 'The Tempest'. The story delves into the complex relationships between Prospero, Miranda, Caliban, and Ariel, adding depth and backstory to these familiar characters. The narrative alternates between the perspectives of Miranda and Caliban, exploring their tragic and forbidden love story set in a magical and mythical world. Carey's writing style is described as lush, lyrical, and evocative, capturing the beauty and sadness of the tale.

    Papa forbids me to interrupt him at his art. When I was little, sometimes I would take fright upon waking alone and forget; and then he would have to punish me, which grieved him. But now I am six yea...

  6. 'England's Mistress: The Infamous Life of Emma Hamilton' by author Kate Williams is a fast-paced account of the life of Emma Hamilton, a woman who rose from poverty to become the most famous woman in England. The book portrays Emma's journey from a poor coal mining town to becoming the wife of Sir William Hamilton, a confidante of the Queen of Naples, and the love of Admiral Nelson's life. The tragic love story between Emma and Nelson, trapped in loveless marriages, is a central theme in the book, showcasing the challenges faced by women in the 19th century England. The narrative delves into the scandalous affair, financial struggles, and ultimate destitution faced by Emma after Nelson's death, painting a vivid picture of the societal norms and hardships of the time.

    Emma's evolution from poverty to fame, her relationships with influential figures like Nelson and Sir William Hamilton, and the harsh realities of being a woman in the 19th century are vividly depicted in the book. Kate Williams skillfully weaves together historical facts and personal anecdotes to bring Lady Emma Hamilton to life, providing a gripping and insightful portrayal of a remarkable woman's journey through the tumultuous times of 18th century England. The author's thorough research, engaging writing style, and poignant storytelling make this biography a compelling read that sheds light on the life and tribulations of Emma Hamilton.

    Emma Hamilton was born Amy Lyon on Friday April 26, 1765, into squalid poverty. Ness was a ramshackle huddle of thirty or so miners' hovels set in scrubby, stony, infertile land. Moored on the Wirral ...

  7. #7

    Gunnar's Daughter by Sigrid Undset, Arthur G. Chater
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    'Gunnar's Daughter' by Sigrid Undset is a short but poignant tale set in the Middle Ages, depicting the brutal ways of the medieval Norse culture intertwined with loving relationships, fateful coincidences, and tragic occurrences. The story revolves around Vigdis, a strong woman who defies societal norms, chooses her own destiny, and raises her son alone after refusing to marry his father. Undset's writing style is described as classic, with a focus on the cultural and religious customs of Norway during that period, offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society transitioning to Christianity.

    The book transports readers to 13th century Norway, painting a vivid picture of the era through its precise and straightforward writing. Undset skillfully weaves a narrative that explores themes of family honor, vengeance, strength, courage, and love in medieval Norway and Iceland, capturing the essence of the time while addressing contemporary issues of women's rights. Despite the dark and violent setting, the story is engaging and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on readers with its timeless portrayal of human emotions and struggles.


  8. #8

    Honor by Thrity Umrigar
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    "Honor" by Thrity Umrigar delves deeply into the themes of women's struggles, religious differences, and socioeconomic disparities in India. The story follows Smita, a journalist, who returns to India to cover the tragic story of a Hindu woman who marries a Muslim man, leading to devastating consequences. The narrative unfolds through dual timelines, offering a poignant exploration of cultural traditions, personal choices, and the impact of society on individuals. The writing style is captivating, intertwining themes of love, loss, and resilience in a way that engages readers emotionally and intellectually.


  9. #9

    I Am Not Myself These Days by Josh Kilmer-Purcell
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    'I Am Not Myself These Days' by Josh Kilmer-Purcell is a memoir chronicling the author's days as a drag queen named Aqua and his tumultuous relationship with Jack, a crack-addicted male escort specializing in S&M. The book delves into their unconventional love story, filled with humor, pathos, and self-destructive behavior. Kilmer-Purcell's writing style mixes humor and vulnerability, portraying a New York City that no longer exists, while exploring themes of addiction, love, and loss.

    The narrative follows Josh's journey from a drag queen seeking the spotlight and vodka to finding comfort and love in Jack, despite their respective addictions pulling them apart. Kilmer-Purcell's candid storytelling reveals personal details with honesty and bravery, making the characters relatable and the love story both heartbreaking and compelling. Through witty and engaging prose, the author navigates a world of parties, substance abuse, and unconventional relationships, ultimately crafting a universal tale of love, redemption, and the complexities of human connection.

    I’ve just dropped my vodka glass and am having that perennial, silly internal debate about whether I should order another one—since, let’s face it, I have reached the state where I’m dropping full gla...

  10. #10

    Holding the Man by Timothy Conigrave
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    "Holding the Man" by Timothy Conigrave is a powerful memoir that narrates the enduring love story between Tim and John, set against the backdrop of the emerging AIDS epidemic in the 1980s. The writing style seamlessly blends elements of a love story, a coming-of-age narrative, and a poignant reflection on the challenges faced by same-sex couples during a tumultuous time. Through vivid descriptions and raw emotions, the book captures the tenderness, intimacy, and struggles of Tim and John's relationship, culminating in a heart-wrenching portrayal of loss and grief.

    At the end of the sixties the world seemed very exciting for a nine-year-old. Things were changing at an incredible rate. And most of the changes seemed to be for the better, like the afternoon we all...

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