Plot recs?

[stillsostrange]

I'm looking for examples of a specific plot structure (that don't suck!), but not thinking of many. I suspect this is a lack of coffee.

It goes something like:

Character gains awesome power/macguffin/plans to the space station.
Character goes on voyage of discovery to learn about this newly acquired thing, whilst being pursued by forces of Evile. Meets kooky side characters and visits interesting setting.
Character must eventually take a stand against forces of Evile. Explosions ensue.

This is a pretty standard quest variant, obviously, but I'm looking for examples of good executions, preferably not in high fantasy or space opera. Any suggestions?

Comments

[oddmonster.livejournal.com]

Scar Night by Alan Campbell. Boy inherits awful responsibility, meets kickass girl assassin while learning how to manage responsibility, is pursued by unhinged grieving father and must suddenly save city from falling into a big hole in the world. (mid-level fantasy)

Secret History of Moscow by Ekaterina Sedia. Girl discovers world beyond known world, must negotiate between the two to rescue sister, then discovers said negotiation is key to saving pretty much everybody. (urban fantasy)

I think there's also some argument to be made that Poppy Z Brite's Liquor books each follow this arc, and they're definitely not fantasy or space opera.

[stillsostrange.livejournal.com]

I have Scar Night and haven't read it yet--I will check it out. I love SHoM, but it doesn't quite sync with the structure I'm looking for in my head.

[criada.livejournal.com]

Not high fantasy or space opera? That makes it tough.
Harry Potter?

[burger-eater.livejournal.com]

Soon I Will Be Invincible

Dr. Impossible escapes from supervillain prison.
Dr. Impossible builds super-gadget that will allow him to defeat his arch-foe, a Superman-like hero (while reminiscing about his life and previous relationship with hero).
Dr. Impossible has knock down blow out fight w/ heroes.

Maybe?