Sorry for the long background – TLDR at the end!
Hi all, I have always been a keen reader, and finished a Literature degree about 5 years ago. However, I don’t think I’ve been able to finish a fiction book since! I lean towards TV and movies these days but would love to get back into reading.
I’ve never been too interested in fantasy – I struggle to suspend my disbelief and don’t have a particularly vivid imagination. I also have a very low tolerance for predictable dialogue and characters with trivial problems – this has driven me away from using ‘fluffy’ romances (or most YA – sorry) as an easy way back into reading.
In case it’s helpful for inspo, I’ve recently binge-watched The White Lotus and loved it. I also loved Squid Game until it got too gory for me, and I’m a big fan of Tarantino movies. However, it’s beginning to irritate me how male-dominated that genre seems to be, so a big bonus would be to have a strong female character who’s three-dimensional without the empowerment cliches!
TLDR: I would love some recommendations for a non-fantasy novel or series with characters worth rooting for, and maybe some darker themes (though not crucial). I’m not necessarily opposed to romance, but I can’t bear cringey, predictable storylines/dialogue – I need some substance and for the characters to have something at stake. Surely that’s not too big of an ask…? Please share your wisdom!
by Local_Security5750
1 Comment
I’d always recommend the Comoran Strike series. Great detective mystery novel series with great character writing. Strong three dimensional female lead along with a strong male lead. Got some darker themes and struggles for sure.
Not sure it fits in with your movies/shows selection, but i think its a great non-cringey book imo.