Books matching: characters dealing with personal struggles
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Stephanie Land's memoir, 'Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother's Will to Survive,' delves into her experiences as a single mother working as a maid to support herself and her daughter Mia. The book sheds light on the struggles faced by those working in low-paying positions, the challenges of navigating government assistance programs, and the emotional toll of living in poverty. Land's writing style is described as honest, gritty, and eye-opening, providing a raw portrayal of her journey from homelessness to pursuing her dream of becoming a writer.
It was an afternoon in June, the day before her first birthday. I perched on the shelter’s threadbare love seat, holding up an old digital camera to capture her first steps. Mia’s tangled hair and thi...- #2
'I Was Born for This' by Alice Oseman revolves around the themes of music, fandom, friendship, and self-discovery. The story follows Angel, a British hijabi fangirl, as she navigates new real-life friendships and encounters with a British trans Christian Rock Band singer named Jimmy, who struggles with extreme anxiety. delves into the complexities of relationships, the power of platonic love, and the importance of self-acceptance. Oseman's writing style captures the diverse and rounded characters' experiences, including their passions, struggles, and everyday heroism, within the intense world of fandom and celebrity life.
The narrative explores themes of friendship, self-love, and faith, presenting characters with diverse backgrounds, orientations, and mental health challenges in a casual and central manner. The story highlights the struggles and growth of the characters, especially Angel and Jimmy, as they navigate their identities and relationships while dealing with societal pressures and personal insecurities. Oseman weaves a tale filled with realistic portrayals of fandom, friendship dynamics, and the journey towards self-acceptance, creating a compelling and emotional narrative that resonates with readers.
Theoretically, this shouldn’t be awkward. I have been talking to Juliet Schwartz for two years. On the internet only, yeah, but internet friendships aren’t that different to real ones nowadays, and Ju... - #3
'After Hours' by Cara McKenna is an erotic romance novel set in a psychiatric hospital, following the characters Erin Coffey and Kelly Robak. Erin, a newly hired LPN, meets Kelly, an orderly on the locked ward, and despite their initial reservations, they are drawn to each other. The story explores their complex relationship, blending explicit sex scenes with emotional depth and character development. The setting of the psychiatric hospital adds a unique and gritty backdrop to the passionate romance between Erin and Kelly.
But ominous sign notwithstanding, the road was quiet and pretty. Elms and oaks and firs rose up on either side, watery dawn sunshine winking between green leaves to the east. There were no pop bottles... - #4
Crash Into You by Katie McGarry is a gripping romance novel that follows the story of Rachel and Isaiah. Rachel, a girl overshadowed by her deceased sister and burdened by anxiety, finds solace in her Mustang and unexpectedly meets Isaiah at a drag race. Isaiah, a tough and loyal boy with a troubled past, forms a deep connection with Rachel, leading to a complex and intense romance. As their relationship develops, they face challenges including dangerous races, family expectations, and threats from a criminal, all while discovering their true selves and finding love in unexpected places.
The writing style of Crash Into You is praised for its ability to create deep connections with the characters, particularly Isaiah and Rachel. Readers appreciate the author's talent in portraying complex emotions and relationships, making the story engaging and immersive. The plot is filled with high-speed action, dramatic twists, and emotional depth, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and emotionally invested in the characters' journey.
The fingers of my left hand drum against the steering wheel and my right hand grips the stick shift. The urge to shift into First, slam the gas and hightail it out of the dismal gray parking lot pulse...
(Also, see 70 recommendations for the series Pushing the Limits ) - #5
Rage and Ruin is the second book in 'The Harbinger' series by Jennifer L. Armentrout, where the plot intensifies with supernatural elements like angels, demons, and gargoyles. The story revolves around Trinity, a headstrong and passionate character, and her complicated relationship with Zayne, a kind but imperfect protector. The book is filled with suspense, mystery, and forbidden romance, leading to thrilling twists and turns that culminate in a shocking cliffhanger. Readers are drawn into a world where human flaws, insecurities, and forbidden love intersect with the battle between Wardens and Demons, creating a gripping and emotionally charged narrative.
The ghost, who’d been sort of a roommate of mine for the past decade, grinned at me from where he floated midair, several inches above the bed. He was stretched out on his side, cheek resting on his p...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Harbinger ) - #6
The Unlikely Ones by Mary Brown is a fantasy novel that follows the quest for freedom of five unlikely companions - a girl, a raven, a cat, a toad, and a fish - who have suffered enchantments from the same witch. Each character has a jewel embedded in their bodies by the witch, allowing them to communicate but also physically crippling them. The story revolves around their journey to break free from the witch's spells, joined by a unicorn and a knight who have also fallen victim to the witch's curses. The book is written in a fairytale style, with elements of humor, subverted tropes, and a coming-of-age theme for the main character, Thing.
- #7
Pleasuring the Lady, the second book in the Pleasure Wars series by Jess Michaels, follows Lady Portia who, in a desperate attempt to save her mother from the asylum, strikes a bargain with Miles. As they navigate their emotions and pasts, their relationship evolves from a transaction to a passionate connection filled with love and intimacy. Set in the Regency era, the book explores themes of sacrifice, passion, and redemption against the backdrop of historical London, blending sensual encounters with deep emotional connections.
Lady Portia's journey from a resigned wallflower to a woman who discovers true passion and care through Miles is at the heart of this erotic Regency romance. The narrative weaves together elements of friendship, scandal, and self-discovery as Portia and Miles navigate through societal expectations and personal desires, culminating in a story that is both sweet and sensual, with a touch of poetic license that adds a modern twist to historical erotica.
“After so many years of comparing sad stories in the corners of ballrooms, do you think I would not wish to hear all the details of your joy? There is no one else in the world that deserves happiness ...
(Also, see 20 recommendations for the series The Pleasure Wars ) - #8
In 'Thrown Down' by Tessa Bailey, Vaughn returns to Hook after being away for years, rekindling his relationship with River, the love of his life, and their daughter Marcy. The story revolves around second chances, deep love, and the struggles of trust and forgiveness. The writing style is described as emotionally honest, with scorching hot romance scenes and compelling characters that draw readers into a world of love, heartbreak, and redemption.
Vaughn De Matteo rested his forehead on the steering wheel of his truck and counted to ten. And then he did it again. The process hadn’t been necessary since his early twenties—before the army had wru...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Made in Jersey ) - #9
'The Reunion' in the series 'The Chance' by author Meghan Quinn is a story that delves into the intricacies of family relationships, focusing on three estranged siblings and their partners who come together to celebrate their parents' anniversary. The narrative unfolds through six different points of view, offering a deep exploration of the pains and triumphs within the family dynamics. As the siblings navigate through past resentments and present revelations, the story weaves together individual character journeys while emphasizing the importance of familial bonds and shared experiences.
The book portrays a mix of tenderness, emotional resonance, and soulful complexity, delving into the magic and challenges of family life. Despite the multiple perspectives and underlying family drama, the story manages to highlight the growth of relationships, both romantic and familial, against the backdrop of a small town setting. Through witty writing and relatable family dynamics, Meghan Quinn brings to life a tale that touches on themes of love, pain, and the enduring connections that bind us together.
“Larkin, did you get the invitations sent out?” I call from my desk as I type out a quick email to our head of marketing. I was supposed to receive mock-ups for our rebranding by end of day. It’s end ...
(Also, see 5 recommendations for the series The Chance ) - #10
'Hard Pressed' in the Talbott?s Cove series by Kate Canterbary follows the story of Annette, a smart and bookish bookstore owner, and Jackson, the new sheriff in town who is dedicated, loyal, and protective. Annette, who is loved by her community but misunderstood by her family, struggles with accepting love while Jackson is determined to win her heart. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their relationship is filled with warmth, humor, and hotness. Set in the charming town of Talbott's Cove, the book explores themes of self-discovery, love, and community support. The writing style is engaging, witty, and filled with banter that keeps readers entertained from beginning to end.
On most days, I went out of my way to avoid her. I scheduled myself for early patrols or wellness checks on some of my elderly residents. Anything to get out of the station. It was a necessity. I coul...
(Also, see 47 recommendations for the series Talbott’s Cove )