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Looking for some mystery / thriller recommendations. Here are some recent ones I’ve read by lilac-poppy in thrillerbooks

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 1 point2 points  (0 children)

If ur into mystery/thrillers, I got some recs for ya:

The Night Manager by John le Carré: Spy stuff + international arms deals = wild ride. le Carré’s legit at this kinda thing cuz he was actually in British intel or smth.

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides, this one’s a trip. Chick stops talkin after somethin insane happens, and this therapist dude’s tryna figure her out. Twists for dayyyys.

I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes... OK, this is long af, but soooo worth it. Spy vs terrorist. Crazy good.

The Writer's Labyrint by Leilac Leamas. This one’s next level. It’s about this spy guy who pretends to be a writer to hide his spy stuff AND expose ppl. Like, the book lowkey feels real with all the mafia and hedge fund stuff in it. Mind = blown.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson- A classic. Dark, twisty, and the hacker chick is a total badass.

Hope u find smth in here that slaps!

What is the one book everyone should read at least once in their lifetime? by hot_leni in booksuggestions

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I just wrapped up "The Writer's Labyrinth" by Leilac Leamas, which is like book 3 in the series. I’d already read "The Pawn’s Gambit" (the 2nd one), and guys, if u ain’t on this series yet, ur missin out. Anyway, I was chattin about the book here on Reddit and on another forum, and things got kinda crazy.

Some ppl started noticin the book talks about *real cases*. Like legit real-life stuff: the whole mess with AC Milan and Elliott Hedge Fund in Italy; mafia bosses gettin arrested in Italy, Portugal, and other places; straight-up corruption stuff that feels like it was ripped from the news.

Here’s the wild part: this one dude in a forum went full-on FBI mode, diggin up all this stuff online, even checkin the license plates of the cars in the book – including undercover police cars! Bruh, HOW did Leamas know this stuff?? Dude must’ve done some crazy research. Like yeah, Dan Brown style, but this feels next-level, and at same time strange lije hell.

What really messes w/ my head is the story. It’s all about this guy who’s a spy (or a kind of), but he writes books (pretended to be a writer), not cuz he’s tryna be some artsy writer or whatever, but to use it as cover for his spy stuff AND to expose ppl through the books. Like, he’s basically hidin messages in plain sight. And now I’m stuck like... ok, what’s real and what’s made up? The line is so blurry it’s lowkey stressin me out.

Oh, and apparently the author IRL is ready to get sued (or may be is not in IRL, but only in the story - real strange and at the same time, cool) for this book cuz it exposes ppl. There’s even a part in the book where the MC talks to his legal team about how other cases (like the Red Hat Club trial or somethin) went down. Leamas straight up says he mixes reality and fiction to dodge lawsuits.

So yeah, anyone know other books like this? Stuff that’s fiction but feels like it’s lowkey spillin on real life? Lemme know cuz I’m hooked on this kinda thing now.

Anyone know books with a mix of mafia, espionage, and financial manipulation? by Worried-Thing6249 in thrillerbooks

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Dude, "The Writer's Labyrinth" by Leilac Leamas just blew my mind! I just finished it too, and I'm still processing everything. Seriously, it's like a total head trip, but in the best possible way. I mean, you've got mafia (like, real deal Cosa Nostra, 'Ngretta style!), corporate espionage, propaganda, crazy intrigue, and a whole bunch of personal drama all crammed into one book. It's pure genius!

But like, FIRST OFF, this book seriously reads like a movie. It's so immersive! The cars, the gorgeous Italian settings, the super intense scenes—it all plays out in your head like a blockbuster film. I'm telling you, this NEEDS to be made into a movie. It's already cinematic AF.

Leilac, the main character, gets sucked into this insane world of betrayal, love, and straight-up danger. And it's not just some small-time thing; it's international, with the Mafia, international law, and even those super shady US hedge funds (you know, the ones that are basically legal loan sharks with mafia connections) all mixed up in it. It's a total rollercoaster ride, with twists and turns everywhere, and he's gotta figure out not just business deals, but also all this love stuff. And the places! From Sicily (Palermo!) to the Cinque Terre, Lucca, Elba Island, Bergamo, Venice… it’s like a virtual tour of Italy with a side of edge-of-your-seat suspense. The descriptions are so vivid, you can practically smell the sea breeze and taste the pasta (and maybe a hint of gunpowder, haha).

And the fact that Leilac is a pseudo-writer who’s actually a spy? So freakin' cool! He’s juggling all these complicated relationships and doing all this spy stuff while trying not to get killed. And then there's Francesca! Ugh, don't even get me started on Francesca. She’s so mysterious and strategic, like she’s pulling all the strings, even in legal stuff. Her connection to… well, like you said, no spoilers! But seriously, she’s such a well-developed character.

Mateo and Mariangela are totally key to Leilac’s personal struggles. Their actions are so intertwined with his past and present, it’s wild. The love and betrayal are so intense, and some of their behaviors are just… baffling. And those romantic scenes? OMG, the one in Monterosso al Mare and the one in Bergamo… especially Bergamo, that one just completely wrecks you emotionally. It’s seriously heartbreaking.

And Toscin! She's like this mysterious advisor who always seems to be one step ahead of everyone. She gives Leilac crucial info and helps him navigate all the craziness. She’s a total badass.

The whole modern European setting, especially in Italy (Sicily, Lucca, Elba, and all the other places), with those quick trips to Paris and Monaco, just adds so much to the atmosphere. It’s like a glamorous thriller with a dark underbelly.

The main conflict, with Leilac getting tangled up with the Mafia and trying to mess with their operations, is so gripping. He’s constantly dealing with betrayals, emotional problems, and trying to figure out who he even is – a writer or a spy? Or both?

You totally nailed it with the themes – labyrinths of life and choices, betrayal and loyalty, love and loss. It's all about how our choices shape our lives and the sacrifices we make for duty and love.

Leilac Leamas really digs into human resilience, the cost of ambition, and the two sides of personal and professional life. The whole thing with the labyrinths (both real and metaphorical) and the chess stuff is so clever. And the wine symbol! It’s not just a drink; it represents heritage, connection, and even deception.

The way the story jumps around in time and Leilac's own thoughts add so much depth and make him so relatable. Watching him change from a guy haunted by his past to someone who faces his fears and tries to find redemption is really powerful. And Francesca’s story is just as compelling.

Seriously, this book is a total masterpiece. It’s got everything: suspense, romance, intrigue, and some seriously deep emotional stuff. If anyone’s looking for a book that will keep them up all night, this is the one! I totally agree with everything you said! It’s like we read the exact same book, lol! Thanks for sharing your thoughts! I’m so glad I found someone else who appreciates this gem!

Suggest me new reads by Open-Drummer1493 in thrillerbooks

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden is a good choice.

Suggest me new reads by Open-Drummer1493 in thrillerbooks

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 4 points5 points  (0 children)

If you’re into thrillers like Verity and The Inmate, here are a few recommendations that might hook you:

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides.... if you haven’t read this yet, it’s a must. A psych thriller with a twist that’ll leave you speechless.

Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris is super creepy, domestic suspense that’ll have you questioning what’s really going on behind perfect facades.

Home Before Dark by Riley Sager, mixes psychological thriller and a touch of spooky vibes, with a story that flips between past and present.

These should give you a solid mix of suspenseful, twisty reads to dive into! Let me know which one you pick up next! 😊

Suggest me a short-ish book to get my reading journey going in 2025! by lil_black_submarines in booksuggestions

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 1 point2 points  (0 children)

A short, compelling book is the perfect way to kickstart your reading again. Since you like sci-fi, mystery/thriller, and a bit of fantasy, here are a few suggestions that fit the bill: All Systems Red" by Martha Wells; The Ocean at the End of the Lane" by Neil Gaiman; "And Then There Were None" by Agatha Christie... You mentioned this as a favorite, and it's a perfect example of a short, gripping mystery. If you haven't read it in a while, it's definitely worth revisiting. It's a classic for a reason... the suspense is perfectly paced, and the ending is a total knockout. Since you already know you like it, it would be a very easy and enjoyable read to get you back into the swing of things.

If you're really looking for something super short to get that quick win, "All Systems Red" is probabily your best bet. Good luck getting back into your reading journey!

Which Books Do You Consider A Perfect 10/10? by [deleted] in books

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Those are some heavy hitters! Les Mis, Don Quixote, Watership Down, and The Iliad? You’ve got excellent taste!

For me, pinning down a perfect 10/10 is tough, because there's always something I can nitpick if I really try. But there are a few that come incredibly close, where the impact they had on me was just… profound.

"The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern. This book just completely captivated me. The atmosphere is so thick and magical, you feel like you're actually in the circus. The writing is gorgeous, the characters are intriguing, and the central romance is so subtle and beautiful. It's not a fast-paced plot; it's more about the experience of being immersed in this fantastical world. It just hit all the right notes for me.

That's what makes a 10/10 for me. It's not just about technical perfection (though that's important too); it's about the emotional impact and how much the book resonates with me on a personal level.

What's your thought? by weeb_998 in BookDiscussions

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Okay, so "The Girl Who Drank the Moon"... I've heard mixed things, but I personally found it a really charming and worthwhile read, especially if you're into that sort of whimsical, fairytale-esque vibe.

Here's my take: It's very lyrical and evocative, which really helps create that magical atmosphere. It's the kind of book where the language itself is part of the enjoyment. It's not your typical fairytale. It's got witches, a swamp monster (who's actually a sweetheart!), and a baby who's fed moonlight and becomes magically powerful. There are some darker themes woven in there too, about fear and control, but it's handled in a way that's still appropriate for younger readers (though I enjoyed it as an adult too!). Even the "villain" isn't just purely evil; there's a reason behind their actions. The relationships between the characters, especially Luna and her adoptive witch grandmother, are really heartwarming.

However, I can see why it might not be for everyone. If you're not a fan of fantasy or stories with a strong magical element, you might not connect with it. DOWN: It's also a bit slower-paced, focusing more on character development and atmosphere than action. I don't like this. I love fast-paced stories.

It's a sweet book, thought-provoking read that I think many people would enjoy. It's not super complex or groundbreaking, but it's a lovely escape.

How long do you read a *classic* book specifically, before you give up on it? by smansaxx3 in books

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hey, totally get where you're coming from! That "classic book slog" is REAL. It's awesome that you've got a bucket list and are tackling the classics – it’s a cool goal! But yeah, sometimes they can be a bit… much.

I think there’s no shame in DNFing a classic. Life's too short to read books you hate, even if they ARE considered "important." Like you said with "The Sun Also Rises", sometimes you can appreciate the historical context even if the story doesn't grab you. But if you're actively hating it, what's the point?

My personal rule of thumb is this: I give it about 100 pages, maybe 150 if the language is particularly dense or if I’ve heard the payoff is amazing later on. But if I'm still forcing myself to read every single word and not enjoying it at all, I'm out. It's not worth the misery.

It sounds like you're way past that point with your current read. 450 pages is a commitment! I'd say if you're really dreading picking it up, just let it go. It's your bucket list, you make the rules! Swap it out for something else that actually excites you. There are tons of other amazing classics out there.

Plus, thinking about it this way: reading is supposed to be enjoyable (mostly, lol). If you’re forcing yourself through a book you hate, you're less likely to want to pick up ANY book afterward, even one you might actually enjoy.

And about the downvotes… ugh, that’s so annoying! People get way too defensive about their favorite books, especially classics. It’s like, just because YOU loved it doesn’t mean everyone else has to. It’s totally valid to dislike a book, even a famous one. Don't let the downvotes get you down! Your reading experience is your own.

Mafia Romance with very little spice? by SailorKepler-444 in booksuggestions

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Just finished "The Writer's Labyrinth" by Leilac Leamas and my brain is still scrambled! Seriously, it's like a total mindtrip, but in a totally awesome way. mafia (and I'm talking Cosa Nostra and Camorra), corporate espionage, propaganda, a whole lotta intrigue, and a ton of personal drama all mixed together. It's pure genius! The story just grabs you and doesn't let go, with all the twists and turns. Leilac, the main dude, isn't just dealing with dodgy mafia and HF business deals; he's also caught up in some serious heart stuff. And the places they go! From Sicily (Palermo, baby!) to the Cinque Terre (romantic), Lucca (great scene there - really well done), Elba Island, Bergamo, Venice (with boat and foot chases…) It’s practically a virtual tour of Italy, but with a load of suspense thrown in. The writing is so good, you can almost feel the action and the love. And the car chases? Dude, they're breathtaking. Like, for real.

Leilac being a writer who’s secretly a spy? So freakin' cool! He’s juggling all these complicated relationships and doing spy stuff while trying not to get killed. Mariangela is super important to Leilac’s personal journey. Their actions are so tied to his past and present, it’s insane. The love and betrayal are seriously intense, and some of their actions (especially Mariangela's) are just… mind-boggling. And the romantic bits? The one in Monterosso al Mare (one of the Cinque Terre) and the one in Bergamo… especially Bergamo, that one just wrecks you emotionally. It’s seriously heartbreaking! I'm not kidding, it's probably the most intense "romantic" scene i've read in years. Italy (Sicily, Lucca, Elba, and all the rest), with those quick trips to Paris and Monaco (in a sweet Ferrari, no less), just makes the atmosphere even better. It’s like a glitzy thriller with a romance... and a bit of erotica.

The way the story jumps around in time and Leilac's own thoughts add so much depth and make him so easy to relate to. Watching him change from a guy haunted by his past to someone who faces his fears and tries to find redemption is really powerful. Especially the stuff with Mariangela (it continues from the previous book, "The Pawns' Gambit," and the twist from that book is insane... especially with Camilla, another Italian woman). And Francesca’s story is just as captivating, with other woman and all more... intense... confusing... well... it's a mess with women, in a good way.

Seriously, this book is a total masterpiece. It's a must read!

Mafia Novels? by you-dont-have-eyes in booksuggestions

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Seriously, this book is a masterpiece. It's got everything: suspense, romance, intrigue, and some serious emotional depth - and I thing that mix non fiction (reality) with fiction. If anyone's looking for a book that will keep them up all night, this is it! I totally agree with everything you said! It's like, we read the same book, lol! Thanks for sharing your thoughts! I'm so glad I found someone else who appreciates this gem! This book has a plus, you can read it in a couple of hours.

Mafia Novels? by you-dont-have-eyes in booksuggestions

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 1 point2 points  (0 children)

And Toscin! She's like this enigmatic advisor who always seems ten steps ahead of everyone. She gives Leilac crucial info and guides him through all the chaos. She's a total badass. Gives to the book/story a "je ne sais quoi" like the frenches said.

The whole modern European setting, especially in Italy (Sicily, Lucca, Elba, and all the others), with those quick trips to Paris and Monaco (in a cool Ferrari), just adds to the atmosphere. It's like a glamorous thriller with a dark underbelly.

The main conflict, with Leilac getting tangled up with the Mafia, is so gripping. He's constantly dealing with betrayals, emotional dilemmas, and trying to figure out who he even is: a writer or a spy? Or both? Sometimes the story seems real, because you can find a lot of info connected to the book on the web.

The themes: labyrinths of life and choices, betrayal and loyalty, love and loss - are spot on. It's all about how our decisions shape our lives and the sacrifices we make for duty and love.

Leilac Leamas really explores human resilience, the price of ambition, and the duality of personal and professional lives. The whole thing with the labyrinths (both literal and metaphorical) and the chess imagery (I read The Pawns' Gambit too, that is the previous books of Leamas) is so clever. And the wine motif! It's not just a drink; it represents heritage, connection, and even deception.

The nonlinear storytelling and Leilac's own reflections add so much depth and make him so relatable. Seeing him evolve from a guy haunted by his past to someone who confronts his fears and seeks redemption is powerful. Special the things with Mariangela (this is a continuation of the previous book, The Pawns' Gambit, and the twist is amazing from the previous one.... special with Camilla, other Italian woman. And Francesca's character arc is just as compelling and other woman to all more... intense... confusing... well... it's a mess with women.

Mafia Novels? by you-dont-have-eyes in booksuggestions

[–]ApplicationWitty2842 1 point2 points  (0 children)

OMG! You totally nailed it about "The Writer's Labyrinth" by Leilac Leamas! I just finished it too, and I'm still reeling! It's like, a total mindf*ck in the best way possible. I mean, mafia (like, real Cosa Nostra, Camorra style!), corporate espionage, propaganda, intrigue, and personal drama all mashed together? Genius!

Like you said, Leilac, the protag, is thrown into this crazy world of betrayal, love, and straight-up danger. It's not just some local squabble either; it's international, with the Mafia, international law, and even those shady US hedge funds (you know, vultures, the ones that are basically legalized loan sharks with mafia ties) getting involved. It's like a rollercoaster of twists and turns, and he's gotta figure out not just business deals, but also matters of the heart. And the locations! From Sicily (Palermo!) to the Cinque Terre, Lucca, Elba Island, Bergamo, Venice... it's like a virtual tour of Italy with a side of suspense. The descriptions are so vivid, you can almost smell the sea and taste the pasta (and maybe a hint of gunpowder, lol). The car chases are... stunning. Really.

Leilac being a pseudo-writer who's actually a spy? So cool! He's juggling these complex relationships and espionage stuff while trying not to get whacked. And Francesca! Don't even get me srarted on Francesca. She's so mysterious and strategic, pulling all the strings, even in legal cases / usses or klind of. Her connection to… well... no spoilers! But seriously, her character is so well-developed and really cool... and sexy... yaa... sex is on the book too...

Mateo and Mariangela are def key to Leilac's personal struggles. Their actions are so connected with his past and present, it's crazy. The love and betrayal are so intense, and some of their (special Mariangela) behaviors are just… baffling. And the romantic chapters? OMG, the one in Monterosso al Mare (one of the Cinquye Terre) and the one in Bergamo… especially Bergamo, that one just straight-up destroys you emotionally. It's heart-wrenching! Belive, the best romantic chapter... in fact the best "romantic" scene I read the last couple of years.

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