Books matching: violence and turmoil
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- #1
Save:A beautifully written, moving tale of innocence, survival, and class divide in turbulent Colombia - immersive, impactful, but slower paced and best for fans of literary fiction or historical coming-of-age stories.
"Fruit of the Drunken Tree" by Ingrid Rojas Contreras tells the story of two young girls, Chula and Petrona, living in Colombia during the turbulent times of Pablo Escobar's reign of terror. Chula comes from a privileged Colombian family living in a gated community, while Petrona is their maid hailing from a poor family. The novel explores the stark contrast between their lives, both affected by the violence and turmoil caused by guerrillas, drug lords, and corrupt political officials. Through alternating perspectives, the book delves into the challenges faced by these girls and their evolving relationship amidst the chaotic backdrop of Colombian society in the 80s.
We were refugees when we arrived to the U.S. You must be happy now that you’re safe, people said. They told us to strive for assimilation. The quicker we transformed into one of the many the better. B...July 2018•309 pages - #2
Save:Sexy, tense, and totally addictive - if you love forbidden romance with danger lurking on every page, "Black Hearts" is absolutely worth the wild ride. Just be ready to crave the sequel as soon as you finish!
In "Black Hearts," Vicente Bernal, the son of the infamous drug cartel leader Javier Bernal, embarks on a journey to California to confront someone from his father's past. Along the way, he meets Violet McQueen, an aspiring photographer with her own family secrets to uncover. As their emotional and physical connection deepens, Vicente's original plan gets derailed, leading to revelations about his family and the dangerous world they live in. The story is told from multiple perspectives, offering insight into the characters' motivations and relationships while building suspense for the next installment.
It’s ridiculous. I turned twenty a few months ago. I know my parents love me and my brother loves me, even though we don’t always see eye to eye. I know I have a good life and a bright, if not uncerta...February 2017•314 pages - #3
Save:The Frolic of the Beasts by Yukio Mishima is a darkly brooding story that deals with death, crime, and punishment in a compact setting. The novel follows the uncomfortable coexistence of a young man named Koji, an unhappily married woman named Yuko, and her paralyzed husband Ippei. The story delves into their complex relationships, filled with cruelty, self-hatred, and primal violence, set against the backdrop of a beautiful yet indifferent natural setting of mountains and seaside. Mishima's writing style evokes powerful imagery and creates a psychological collision between the characters, reflecting their pettiness and cruelty in the midst of the serene surroundings.
1961•177 pages - #4
Save:A haunting, brutally honest Vietnam War novel that’s not for the faint of heart - essential reading for war literature fans, but too raw and graphic for everyone.
Larry Heinemann's 'Close Quarters' is a raw and honest depiction of the Vietnam War, following young Philip 'Flip' Dosier as he navigates the brutal realities of jungle warfare. The novel delves deep into Dosier's transformation from an innocent soldier to a hardened warrior, showcasing the psychological impact of war on individuals. Heinemann's writing style is stark and vivid, painting a vivid picture of the horrors of combat and the emotional turmoil experienced by Dosier.
January 1974•368 pages - #5
Save:Not quite the instant classic as the series opener, but still a strong, twisty, and richly atmospheric historical romance. Recommended for fans of smart, character-driven spy stories - just know it leans more on mystery and intricate plots than grand sweeping romance.
'My Lord and Spymaster' by Joanna Bourne is a historical romance set in the Regency era, focusing on the story of Jess Whitby, a determined young woman trying to clear her father's name of treason during the Napoleonic wars. The book delves into the complex politics of London, espionage, and betrayal, as Jess suspects Captain Sebastian Kennett of being the traitor known as Cinq. Their interactions lead to unexpected circumstances, dangerous assignments, and a budding romance amidst a backdrop of mistrust and personal danger.
The writing style of Joanna Bourne in 'My Lord and Spymaster' is praised for its intricate plot, vivid descriptions of Georgian docks and London's underbelly, and the development of strong, independent characters like Jess and Sebastian. The book seamlessly blends romance, mystery, and historical elements, keeping readers engaged with its fast-paced action, palpable tension, and unexpected twists that make it a compelling read within the Spymasters series.
She missed picking pockets. Missed the cool, stealthy slide of fingers into a coat. Slithering away with a purse, wise and secret. She missed the best part—jingling the coins out on the cobbles, squat... - #6
Save:Wild, messy, and full of feels, "Reaper’s Fall" delivers on intense MC romance. Fans of the series will love it - just don’t expect a smooth, easy ride!
'Reaper's Fall' in the 'Reapers MC' series by Joanna Wylde follows the tumultuous relationship between Melanie Tucker and Levi Painter Brooks over a span of several years. The story delves into their initial meeting, Painter's time in prison, the challenges they face as a couple, and their journey towards becoming better individuals and parents to their daughter. The book stands out for its realistic portrayal of a slow-burning romance, complex character development, and a timeline that spans a significant period compared to other books in the series.
The narrative showcases the evolution of Painter and Mel's relationship, highlighting their deep connection, intense passion, and struggles to overcome obstacles. Readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster as they witness the couple's journey from initial attraction to reconciliation as they navigate parenthood, personal growth, and the complexities of their pasts. Through alternating perspectives and well-crafted storytelling, Joanna Wylde weaves a tale of love, redemption, and family amidst the backdrop of the Reaper's Motorcycle Club universe.
You know, someday you should really tell me how you got started with your artwork. It seems like I share everything with you, but you never tell me anything real about yourself. It’s kind of weird. I...November 2015•384 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Reapers MC ) - #7
Save:Dirty Angels is a gritty, intense, and darkly seductive read that pulls no punches. Perfect if you love morally gray characters and aren't afraid of exploring the twisted side of romance - but it's not for the faint of heart.
'Dirty Angels' by Karina Halle follows the story of Luisa Chavez, a young woman living in Mexico who finds herself in the dangerous world of drug cartels. When the notorious cartel leader, Salvadore Reyes, sets his sights on Luisa, her life takes a dark turn as she becomes a hostage in a dangerous game between rival cartels. Javier Bernal, a businessman looking to expand his cartel, kidnaps Luisa to use her as leverage against Salvadore, leading to a suspenseful and intense plot filled with twists, violence, and unexpected emotions. The writing style of Karina Halle is described as gritty, dark, and thought-provoking, pulling readers into the story and making them feel like they are witnessing the events firsthand.
I didn’t know where, all I knew was that I had to keep going, one foot in front of the other. The wet grass brushed against my bare legs and I wished I’d planned my escape a little bit more. After a m...June 2014•314 pages - #8
Save:A wildly smart, darkly comic, and challenging read - Ripley Bogle delights in linguistic fireworks, but its distinctive style may divide readers. If you’re a fan of bravura storytelling with a cynical edge, don’t miss it.
'Ripley Bogle' by Robert McLiam Wilson is a darkly humorous and twisting tale that follows the life of the title character, Ripley Bogle, a quick-witted and borderline genius individual. The story explores Bogle's journey from being a precocious Cambridge student to a homeless wanderer, delving into themes of deprivation, missed opportunities, and a brilliant character study. The writing style is described as innovative, immediate, and honest, with a Dickensian attention to detail that captivates the reader.
The novel presents a deep exploration of Ireland through the eyes of Bogle, showcasing a world filled with violence, political turmoil, and a sense of numbness towards the constant chaos. Wilson's ability to intertwine poetry, wit, and humor into even the most disturbing events, such as betrayal and death, adds layers of complexity to the narrative. The book is praised for its beautiful writing, thought-provoking plot, and the way it leaves readers contemplating the author's skill in crafting such a mesmerizing story.
1989•352 pages - #9
Save:A sweeping, immersive read that’s perfect for fans of big, ambitious historical sagas and anyone curious about Russia’s past, but may feel too dense or detached for those seeking character-driven stories or a quick, breezy novel.
"Russka: the Novel of Russia" by Edward Rutherfurd is a sweeping historical novel that spans 1800 years of Russian history, following the lives of multiple families through different eras. The book starts with the people of the Steppes, then delves into the periods of the Tatars, Ivan the Terrible, the Cossacks, Peter the Great, Catherine the Great, Tsar Nicholas, and the Revolution. The narrative weaves together personal stories with major historical events, offering a vivid portrayal of Russia's past and the resilience of its people.
The book is structured as a saga of six families, providing a comprehensive view of Russian history from ancient times until the 1990s. Readers are taken on a journey through the turbulent events that shaped Russia, from the early periods of history to the developments leading up to the collapse of the Soviet Union. With lifelike characters and intricate period details, Edward Rutherfurd brings the history of Russia to life in a captivating and engaging manner, offering a rich tapestry of passion, loss, and the enduring spirit of the Russian people.
Like horsemen they came from the east with their billowing white canopies, from who knew what endless steppes – sweeping majestically over the little collection of huts by the river’s edge and continu...January 1980 - #10
Save:A rich, thoughtful historical epic with heart and adventure - perfect for patient readers who love immersive journeys, but may feel slow for those wanting a fast-paced or traditionally structured tale.
'Byzantium' by Stephen R. Lawhead is a historical fiction novel following the journey of an Irish monk named Aidan as he travels from Ireland to Byzantium to deliver a beautifully crafted Bible to the emperor. The book is set in Medieval times and covers the adventures and challenges faced by Aidan and his companions along the way. The story intertwines elements of faith, friendship, historical events, and cultural encounters, providing a sweeping narrative that captures the reader's attention.
The writing style of 'Byzantium' has been praised for its ability to transport readers to different lands and times, immersing them in the rich tapestry of historical events and character developments. The book is described as a blend of adventure, mystery, and romance, with a focus on Aidan's personal journey of faith amidst a backdrop of religious and cultural diversity. Despite being categorized as historical fiction, the novel delves into deep themes such as loss of faith, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships, offering a compelling and engaging read.
I saw Byzantium in a dream, and knew that I would die there. That vast city seemed to me a living thing: a great golden lion, or a crested serpent coiled upon a rock, beautiful and deadly. With trembl...1996•873 pages
