When bad guys turn good - any recommendations?

[blaze]

Hello there. First post here, hope this is the right place to post...

 

So, I've always been interested in the idea that an "evil" (or at least very morally ambiguous) character can find some sort of redemption, even if they're pulled over to the "good" side kicking and screaming. I've seen it happen quite a bit in television (eg. Spike from Buffy) but so far I've yet to read a book where this happens.

 

So, er, does anyone know of any books with this idea? The theme of good/evil probably limits the genres available to fantasy/sci-fi, but I'm fine with that.

 

Thanks in advance!

 

p.s. I just remembered, I suppose Artemis Fowl qualifies, though he becomes a little too good for my liking. But the first couple books are kind of what I'm looking for. Though the person doesn't have to be the main character.

[Kell]

Hi Blaze, and welcome to the forum.

 

I'm not sure if this is quite what you mean, but Terry Pratchett's Discworld features The Patrician who is, essentially, a tyrant, but who works for the good of the city of Ankh Morpork. He uses veiled threats (OK, promises, and they're not always so very veiled!) and people quite often disappear mysteriously. He's also known for hanging mime artists upside down in a dungeon opposite a wall that has painted on it, in large letters, "Learn the words". On the other hand, he's completely devoted to his small, scruffy, very smelly old dog called Wuffles. He can be both cruel and compassionate and never loses his cool. I suppose he could be seen as being both a good guy and a bad guy at the same time, depending on whose point of view it is!

 

PS I love the Artemis Fowl books!

 

PPS My non-reading hubby just came up with a relaly good'un! Jean Valjean from Les Miserable who starts out a crook and becomes a hero and an upstanding citizen (I think he actually becomes mayor, if I remember correctly!). What's more, he assures me he's actually read and enjoyed this book - I've never been so flabbergasted in my life!

[blaze]

Hey! I've read nearly all of Pratchett's books, and Vetinari has got to be my favourite character from them (well, him and Rincewind). Thanks for the rec, though - you've made me want to read them again.

 

Oooh. I've heard of Les Mis, but never got around to reading it. I'll have to do that now, thanks!