Endless Love by Scott Spencer is a dark and intense novel that explores the destructive power of obsessive love. The story follows a teenage boy named David who becomes deeply infatuated with a girl named Jade, leading to a series of tragic events that spiral out of control. Written in a first-person narrative, the book delves into themes of passion, obsession, and the blurred lines between love and madness. The plot unfolds in a gripping and emotional manner, drawing readers into the complex and dysfunctional relationships portrayed in the story.

The writing style of Endless Love is described as both literary and easy to read, with a mix of dark humor and emotional depth. The author, Scott Spencer, masterfully captures the intricate dynamics of adolescent love and the consequences of unchecked desire. Through vivid descriptions and compelling character development, the novel immerses readers in a tumultuous tale of love, loss, and obsession that challenges traditional notions of romance and highlights the darker aspects of human relationships.

Characters:

The characters are deeply flawed, with David depicted as obsessive and troubled while Jade's family embodies dysfunction, evoking complex emotions from the reader.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is lyrical and poetic, with immersive descriptions that delve into complex character emotions and thoughts, creating a deep connection with the reader.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around obsessive love, highlighting how a teenage romance leads to destructive consequences, featuring themes of family dysfunction and societal pressures.

Setting:

The setting is in the 1970s, reflecting cultural and social aspects of the era, with significant locations such as suburban homes and mental institutions.

Pacing:

The pacing is uneven, featuring slow sections but also intense moments that effectively build tension through the protagonist's obsessive thoughts.

When I was seventeen and in full obedience to my heart’s most urgent commands, I stepped far from the pathway of normal life and in a moment’s time ruined everything I loved—I loved so deeply, and whe...

Notes:

The book Endless Love by Scott Spencer is often seen as a dark portrayal of obsessive love.

Many readers find the book's themes and emotional depth to be very powerful.

The story contrasts a dysfunctional family background with the bohemian lifestyle of the protagonist's love interest.

The book describes intense and sometimes graphic sexual scenes, making it unsuitable for all readers.

The narrative is told from the perspective of David, the male protagonist, detailing his obsessive love for Jade.

Readers have commented on how the book feels like a mix of horror and tragic romance due to its dark themes.

The 1981 book was made into a movie starring Brooke Shields, but many feel the movie does not capture the essence of the book.

The author's writing style is often described as lyrical and expressive, skillfully evoking emotions.

Some readers noted that the book can make the audience feel uncomfortable due to its portrayal of obsession and mental illness.

The title has led to misconceptions about the book being a typical romance, while it actually explores deeper and darker themes.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Contains content warnings for graphic sexual content, mental illness, and themes of obsession and emotional distress.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

"Scott Spencer writes about love's tenacity with passionate intensity….From his remarkable opening sentence he had me in thrall."

-Newsweek

First published three decades ago, and hailed as "one of the best books of the year" by the New York Times, here is the classic novel that first established Scott Spencer as "the contemporary American master of the love story"(Publishers Weekly). With more than 2,000,000 copies sold worldwide and translated into more than 20 languages, Spencer's Endless Love is a breathtaking story of teenage passion and obsession. The Washington Post called this unforgettable reading experience, "akin to the legendary thrill of riding a roller-coaster." Endless Love is eternal-and as moving and satisfying as ever before.

Ratings (3)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (8):

Read It (3)
Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (3)
Not Interested (1)

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About the Author:

Scott Spencer is the author of twelve novels, including Endless Love,Waking the Dead, A Ship Made of Paper, and Willing. He has taught at Columbia University, the Iowa Writers' Workshop, Williams College, the University of Virginia, and at Eastern Correctional Facility as part of the Bard Prison Initiative. He lives in upstate New York.

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Endless Love

Scott Spencer