Books matching: abusive family dynamics
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Annabelle' by Ruby Jean Jensen is a chilling horror novel that follows the story of a young girl named Annabelle, whose mother has mental issues and a cruel nature. Despite being spoiled by her father, Annabelle prefers to be ignored by her mother, who enjoys inflicting pain. Years later, a character named Jessica stumbles upon Annabelle's house during a family argument, leading to unforeseen consequences that bring terror upon her family. The plot is well-paced, with a creepy setting and a focus on evil dolls and possessions, reminiscent of classic horror themes from the 1980s.
- #2
Save:The story revolves around Brooke Whitworth, who is ordered by the Prince Regent to marry Lord Dominic Wolfe, the enemy of her brother, in order to settle a dispute that has led to duels between the men. Brooke, happy to get away from her abusive family, is determined to make the marriage work despite Dominic's attempts to drive her away. As they navigate their complicated relationship, sparks fly, attraction grows, and unexpected twists and turns keep the readers hooked. The book combines classic romance moments with unpredictability, evolving characters, and historical aspects, making it a captivating read for fans of historical romance.
- #3
Save:'Mr. Frosty Pants' by Leta Blake is a heartwarming Christmas romance novel that follows the story of Casey and Joel, childhood friends who reunite after years apart. The book delves into themes of second chances, friends to lovers, and overcoming past traumas. The writing style is described as heartfelt, engaging, and immersive, with a perfect balance of emotional depth and steamy romance.
If Casey Stevens ignored the gaudy multicolored Christmas lights strewn through the bushes and trees—and the massive air-blown, glowing Santa popping in and out of a big, green box in the front yard—h... - #4
Save:A young lady who has been dismissed by society as unworthy finds herself falling for a Scottish rogue. When he reappears and convinces her to elope with him, the adventure really begins. Joanna is the almost spinster sister of Baron Aston Lennox, one of the members of the League of Rogues. After three seasons she has had no interest at all from a potential suitor, despite her large dowry and her own personal wealth. Brock Kincade, along with his brothers and sister, grew up in one of the most abusive homes. His father was extremely abusive and violent. Brock is so afraid that he's like his father that he won't allow himself to be violent in any way even when he's attacked, he only does the minimum to protect himself. The main characters, Brock and Joanna, have delightful chemistry and their relationship deepens with each meeting, reinforcing their bond. The book is a blend of historical romance and adventure, with a touch of mystery and suspense woven into the plot. The writing style is smooth and engaging, with a mix of emotional twists and turns, keeping readers hooked till the end.
(Also, see 44 recommendations for the series The League of Rogues ) - #5Joeby:
Save:Set in the deep south of Mississippi, "Joe" follows the story of the titular character, a middle-aged divorcee who leads a rough life as a seasonal forestry contractor. Joe crosses paths with Gary Jones, a young boy living in a homeless family with an abusive father. As the novel progresses, we witness the complex relationships between the characters and the harsh realities of poverty, alcoholism, and despair in rural Mississippi. Larry Brown's writing style brings the landscape and characters vividly to life, painting a gritty and evocative portrayal of tough southern lives.
The plot unfolds slowly, building tension and drama as Joe tries to navigate his own struggles while taking Gary under his wing. The story culminates in a shocking and brilliantly written conclusion, showcasing Brown's skill in capturing the essence of the deep south and its inhabitants, both the good and the bad.
The road lay long and black ahead of them and the heat was coming now through the thin soles of their shoes. There were young beans pushing up from the dry brown fields, tiny rows of green sprigs that... - #6
Save:"Bread Givers" by Anzia Yezierska is a story set in the early 1900s about a family of Russian Jews living on NY's Lower East Side. The plot revolves around the struggles of the Smolinsky family, particularly the four daughters - Bessie, Marsha, Fania, and Sara - with their father, Reb Smolinsky, who is portrayed as an abusive, narcissistic, and religious zealot. The daughters are forced to work from a young age and hand over their wages to their father, who manipulates them into marriages to benefit himself. The youngest daughter, Sara, rebels against her father's oppressive ways and strives to break free, pursue education, and achieve independence, despite the challenges she faces as an immigrant woman in that era.
The writing style of the book is described as melodramatic, with a focus on portraying the immigrant context in New York City in the 1920s. The narrative highlights the themes of feminism, family dynamics, immigrant struggles, and the clash between old traditions and new opportunities, providing a vivid depiction of the hardships faced by immigrant families during that time period.
I was about ten years old then. But from always it was heavy on my heart the worries for the house as if I was mother. I knew that the landlord came that morning hollering for the rent. And the whole ... - #7
Save:The Dangerous Art of Blending In by Angelo Surmelis is a powerful and emotionally driven coming-of-age novel that follows seventeen-year-old Evan Panos as he navigates a life filled with abuse, homophobia, and neglect. The story delves into Evan's struggles with his strict immigrant Greek mother, his distant father, and his developing feelings for his best friend Henry. The writing style is raw and painful, providing a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by survivors of abuse from a young age. The book's fast-paced narrative touches on sensitive subjects like abuse, homophobia, and bullying, leaving readers empathizing with Evan's journey towards finding his voice in a world where silence has been his survival mechanism.
My mother is in the living room with a circle of people from her church and Pastor Kiriaditis. There are candles flickering around them and they’re praying together. I can see a framed photo of me in ... - #8
Save:Paper Butterflies by Lisa Heathfield is a poignant and heart-wrenching story that follows the life of June, a young girl who faces abuse from her stepmother, stepsister, and classmates. The book intricately weaves between the "Before" and "After" chapters, revealing the harrowing experiences June endures and the shocking twist that ultimately lands her in prison. Through beautiful writing and a compelling plot, the author delves into themes of child abuse, resilience, and the devastating impact of trauma on an individual's life.
But it’s difficult to walk. Every step along the path to the pavement, I think it’ll be too late. I look up at the clouds. There’s one like an elephant. I trace the shape of its trunk with my finger. ... - #9
Save:"Essence of Fear: Boykov Bratva" by Bethany-Kris is a dark and gritty story that follows Viktoria Boykov, a strong and independent woman recovering from a traumatic past, and Pavel Kotov, a loyal and caring soldier in the Bratva. The book delves into their journey of growth, trust, and learning to love and trust others, including themselves. The character development and plot are deep and detailed, creating an immersive world where the characters face their personal feelings and fears head-on.
Bethany-Kris's writing in "Essence of Fear" is described as mature and developed, showcasing a new realm of greatness for the author. The story is praised for its emotional depth, captivating plot, and well-rounded characters like Vik and Pav. The book explores themes of vulnerability, trust, love, and growth, as the characters navigate a world filled with danger, loyalty, and the complexities of mafia life.
Pav kept a tight hold on the comic book in his twelve-year-old hands as he glanced up from the glossy cover featuring a man in a red cape to see his father staring at him from the driver’s seat. He’d ... - #10
Save:'Hawk' in the series 'Burnout' by Dahlia West is a romance novel that follows the story of Hawk, an ex-Army Ranger scarred by war and life, and Tildy, a young woman from a rich family who is mentally and physically abused by her mother. Despite their scars and fears of not being able to give each other what they need, Hawk and Tildy find themselves drawn to each other. The book explores their journey of healing, misunderstandings, and the struggle to break free from their pasts, all while navigating a complex relationship filled with passion and turmoil.
The plot of 'Hawk' is filled with kidnapping, near rape attacks, engagements, and a deep emotional connection between Hawk and Tildy. The writing style of Dahlia West brings to life a story of love, healing, and self-discovery, portraying characters who are relatable, likeable, and who undergo personal growth throughout the narrative.
(Also, see 79 recommendations for the series Burnout )
