Books matching: challenges faced by women
100 result(s)
- #1
The Secrets Between Us follows the story of Bhima, a poor woman living in a Mumbai slum, who forms an unlikely friendship and business partnership with Parvati, another elderly woman. The book explores themes of poverty, friendship, women's strength, and societal divides in modern-day India. Through the characters of Bhima and Parvati, the author delves into the struggles and resilience of women living in challenging circumstances, shedding light on the harsh realities of life in the slums of Mumbai.
Umrigar's writing style is described as captivating, thought-provoking, and full of compassion. The narrative is praised for its descriptive storytelling that brings both the characters and the setting of India vividly alive in the reader's mind. The book addresses complex topics such as poverty, class, friendship, and the impact of societal norms on women's lives, offering a compelling and emotionally engaging story.
Even as the first light of the day filters in through the crack where the tin roof meets the horizontal planks of the hovel, she makes no move to get up from the mattress on the mud floor. There is no... - #2
Women's Barracks is a semi-autobiographical account of life in the Free French Army in London during World War II, offering a thoughtful coming-of-age memoir peppered with themes of love, war, and identity. The story follows a group of women who arrive full of hope but leave with jaded feelings towards adulthood and humanity, exploring the complexities of relationships and the impact of war on their optimism for the future.
When the war began, I was in my last year of school at the convent of St. Celestine. I was seventeen and unobtrusive, though not really plain. I had never even gone out with a boy. I had been raised i... - #3
'The Baller' by Vi Keeland is a contemporary romance novel that follows the story of Brody Easton, a cocky pro football player, and Delilah Maddox, a determined sportscaster. The book explores their intense chemistry, developing into a poignant romance filled with humor, heartwarming moments, and past tragedies that shadow their whirlwind romance. The writing style is described as sassy, fun, and engaging, with likable characters and witty banter that keeps the readers hooked from the beginning to the end.
Monday afternoon mandatory meetings consisted of three hours of Charles Ulysses Macy the Third telling the mostly men in the sports programs division about his latest conquest. I stared blankly out th... - #4
"Mighty Be Our Powers" by Leymah Gbowee recounts the inspiring story of how a single woman, facing personal struggles and the turmoil of civil war in Liberia, unites women from diverse backgrounds to demand peace and end the fighting. Through her sheer willpower and determination, Leymah forms a network of like-minded friends to challenge dictatorship and oppression, ultimately leading Liberia towards a new era of freedom and safety. The narrative showcases the sacrifices made by Leymah and her family, the complexities of building a peace movement in a fractured society, and the resilience, courage, and unity of women in the face of adversity.
On New Year’s Eve, 1989, all of us who belonged to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Monrovia gathered in the churchyard for the Watch Night Service, when we’d see the old year pass and welcome the new o... - #5
The Witch's Kind by Louisa Morgan is a historical fantasy novel set during WWII, following the story of Barrie Anne Blyth and her aunt Charlotte. The book explores themes of family, secrets, government conspiracies, and mysterious occurrences, all while blending elements of magical realism and women's fiction. The plot unfolds in a small town where the two women navigate through challenges involving a strange baby, premonitions, and hidden pasts, against the backdrop of a post-war era filled with uncertainty and danger.
It was a long summer evening, the sun reluctant to sink beyond the Olympics, the shy stars holding back until the last possible moment. I lingered in my garden, sidling between my careful rows, tying ... - #6
'My Darling Caroline' by Adele Ashworth is a historical romance novel that follows the story of Caroline, a brilliant aspiring botanist who is forced into an arranged marriage with Brent, a former soldier and spy for England. As the two protagonists navigate their marriage of convenience, they both grapple with deep-seated insecurities and past traumas, gradually discovering love and understanding. The book beautifully portrays their journey of self-discovery, overcoming misunderstandings, and building a genuine relationship amidst societal expectations and personal struggles.
The writing style of 'My Darling Caroline' is praised for its detailed characterizations, slow-building relationship, and sensuality. The author, Adele Ashworth, skillfully weaves a tale of love and growth, incorporating elements of historical accuracy, emotional depth, and intimate love scenes. The plot unfolds with delightful twists and turns, keeping readers engaged with its unique premise and believable character development.
Caroline Grayson gently reached in and, carefully avoiding thorns, snipped the stem from the rosebush, pulling the bud toward her with nimble fingers to have a closer look. She eyed it with the detach... - #7
Set in the midst of the English Civil War, 'Tidelands' by Philippa Gregory follows the story of Alinor, a village midwife and suspected witch, as she navigates life in a small English village filled with danger and intrigue. As her path crosses with a young Royalist spy and priest named James, Alinor finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and struggles to secure a better future for herself and her children.
The novel is praised for its rich historical detail, vivid descriptions of life in the 1600s, and the strong character development of Alinor. Philippa Gregory's writing style immerses readers in the hardships and challenges faced by Alinor, drawing them into a world where suspicion, superstition, and romance intertwine to create a compelling narrative.
The church was gray against a paler gray sky, the bell tower dark against the darker clouds. The young woman could hear the faint stir of the shingle as the tide came in, whispering across the mudflat... - #8
'Small Changes' by Marge Piercy is a novel set in the 1970s that explores the struggles, challenges, and choices faced by women as they strive for equality within a patriarchal society. The book delves into themes such as mental health stigma, racism, ecology, and relationships, providing a thought-provoking and inspiring look at feminist ideals and the women's movement during that era. The characters in the book are well-developed, with some readers finding the storyline realistic and compelling, while others appreciated the nostalgia it brought for the time period.
The writing style of 'Small Changes' is described as capturing the essence of the women's movement in its early stages, providing readers with a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced by women during that time. While some readers found the writing to be didactic and pedestrian at times, many appreciated the realistic portrayal of women as both strong and weak, reflecting the complexities of life and feminist ideals.
Beth was looking in the mirror of her mother’s vanity. The mirror had wings that opened and shut. When she was little she used to like to pull them together around her into a cave of mirrors with only... - #9
Motherless Daughters by Hope Edelman is a compassionate and insightful exploration of the unique challenges faced by women who have lost their mothers at a young age. The book delves into various scenarios of loss, from infancy to adulthood, offering a comprehensive look at the impact of such a profound loss on relationships with fathers, siblings, step families, and partners. Through personal stories and research, the author validates the complex emotions experienced by motherless daughters, providing a sense of understanding and comfort to those grappling with their grief.
The writing style of Motherless Daughters is deeply empathetic and informative, offering a blend of personal narratives and researched insights that resonate with readers who have experienced similar losses. The book not only acknowledges the pain and loneliness of losing a mother but also provides a roadmap for healing and self-discovery, emphasizing that the process of grieving is individual and non-linear.
MY MOTHER DIED IN THE MIDDLE of summer, with everything in full bloom. It had been sixteen months since the afternoon she returned from a doctor’s office with the news of a malignancy in her breast, s... - #10
In "How to Wed a Courtesan," author Madeline Martin tells the poignant story of Lottie and Evander, two characters whose love is tested by unforeseen circumstances and years of separation. Evander, a man who made choices that altered both his and Lottie's lives, returns to claim Lottie as his wife, only to find her transformed into a notorious courtesan. The book explores themes of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation as the couple navigates the challenges of their past and present to find their happily ever after.