I'm looking for a book where the main character is annoyingly positive and competent. Not really looking for a rags to riches type, but is open to them.
I really want the main character to have a really strong personality maybe super bubbly or sarcastic, everything that they do they have a "can-do" attitude. And they lean into their personality. They are the type to go after what they want and they have their act together. Ignores nay-sayers, strong conviction, lots of grit, maybe opinionated or stubborn to a fault type of mindset. Makes the most out of every day.
Any genre will work to be honest, but bonus points if it's funny. Adventure, action, fantasy, romance, history, women's fiction (actually is my question leaning towards literary fiction? idk) literally anything
I need something to shift my mindset and almost push me to be more than just average. Not that I think I'm average or am in a bad mental state — just lately I feel so bleh like neutral about everything. Like I just go through my day without really much thought if that makes sense. Very monotonous.
Also not really looking for self-help books, BUT if you think it fits please suggest them as well!
Thank you.
by No_Upstairs_1732
10 Comments
*The Hands of the Emperor* by Victoria Goddard is about a guy who decided to fix the world by rebuilding the government. He works by being the smartest person in any given room and holding his course come hell or high water. It’s also a heart-warming meditation on friendship, family, culture, and love. Very highly recommended.
For fantasy recomendations you could try fantasyfiction.com.
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke, to a point.
I don’t know anything that is straight up this but your post makes me think of two book series.
The Vorkosigan Saga by Lois McMaster Bujold. The character who’s story starts with The Warrior’s Apprentice. The possitivity and confidence is partly an act but he does it so well that all other characters are pulled in and he accomplishes impossible stuff.
Red Rising by Pierce Brown. The MC pulls off extreme stuff by thinking out of the box and doing extreme things that other characters wouldn’t even think of.
The Honor Harrington series by David Weber.
On Basilisk Station is the first book. It’s science fiction about a young naval officer who is really good at her job despite various obstacles.
Agnes and the Hitman by Jennifer Crusie and Bob Mayer. Agnes is a food writer and a really good cook. Shane is a hitman, also very good at his job. They come together over a mafia wedding.
Sweep of the Blade by Ilona Andrews. science fantasy romance. Maud is a highly competent swordswoman, among other things, who is putting her life back together after a disastrous marriage. It is part of the Innkeeper series, but can be read as a standalone. The rest of the series has a lot of what you want as well.
Anne of Green Gables, Project Hail Mary, any Agatha Christie book featuring Hercule Poirot.
Go back to your childhood and read The Westing Game. It’s just so good!
THE MATCHMAKER by Thornton Wilder, the play that is the basis for the musical HELLO DOLLY!
You are looking for Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons. It’s as if all the bleak characters from a 19th century novel live together, and in steps a young woman who tells them to get a grip, tidy up, and start living their best lives. It’s a wonderful, funny read.
Fred the Vampire Accountant by Drew Hayes. I adore Fred.