Books matching: contemporary suburban setting
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- #1
Save:A heart-tugging romance with a genuinely lovable hero and moving family dynamics, but you'll need patience for a heroine who takes the long road to confidence. Perfect for those who love alpha heroes, emotional journeys, and a side of found family.
In "Law Man," Mitch, a straight-laced cop, lives across the hall from Mara, a woman with serious self-esteem issues and a complicated family life. The book delves into their slow-burn romance, where Mara's insecurities and Mitch's patience and love play a central role. The plot involves Mara taking custody of her cousin's kids, leading to moments of drama, emotion, and growth for both main characters. Kristen Ashley's writing style shines through in creating unforgettable alpha males and weaving a story about love, family, and personal growth.
“Hello this is Mara Hanover in unit 6C. I’ve called three times today and I really need someone to come over and look at my bathroom tap. It won’t turn off. Can you please have the maintenance guy com...December 2012•535 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dream Man ) - #2
Save:In "Hammered" by Jasinda Wilder, the story revolves around Imogen, a recently divorced woman struggling with self-worth and emotional baggage. When she meets Jesse, a sensitive and caring man from Dad Bod Contracting, their budding relationship faces challenges and insecurities from their pasts. The book explores themes of second chances, personal growth, and the complexities of starting over in love. The writing style is described as realistic, humorous, and engaging, with relatable characters and a storyline that balances messy realities with moments of steamy romance.
After one last futile heave, I let go of the window and climb down from the kitchen counter where I’d been perched in my effort to get better leverage. The window over my sink was stuck, and I wanted...June 2018•342 pages - #3
Save:A binge-worthy thriller with a unique narrative structure and plenty of secrets - perfect for fans of dark family mysteries, but be prepared for a grim journey and an ending that might leave you wanting more.
'When She Returned' by Lucinda Berry is a gripping suspense thriller that follows the story of Kate, a mother who disappears for 11 years and suddenly returns, leaving her family in shock. The book is narrated through multiple perspectives, including Kate's past as an investigative journalist, her daughter Abbi's present struggles, and her husband Scott's conflicted emotions. The plot is filled with twists and turns that keep the readers hooked, especially as they delve into the mysterious circumstances surrounding Kate's disappearance and her involvement with a cult.
I nervously fingered the chain around my neck. The small locket held Mom’s picture, and I’d been wearing it since she had disappeared. We had finally buried her five years ago, but it was hard to have...October 2019•295 pages - #4
Save:A delightful, spicy escapist read that's perfect when you're in the mood for quick, feel-good paranormal romance (with a steamy threesome twist). Just don't expect too much depth or worldbuilding - this one's all about the heat and fun!
Talia Barca, the protagonist in 'Twice the Growl', is a woman facing a dilemma when she has to attend a family wedding where her ex-husband will be present. Seeking a solution, she turns to her neighbor, Gerri Wilder, who runs a Paranormal Dating Agency. Unexpectedly, Talia is matched with two enticing men, Connor and Theron, who are eager to form a triad with her. As the story unfolds, Talia navigates her feelings, trust issues, and the dynamics of a polyamorous relationship while dealing with the threat from the pack she is destined to join. The plot is described as spicy, sweet, and direct, with a focus on the romantic entanglement between the characters and the challenges they face.
“I don’t know,” she muttered and lifted her amaretto sour to her lips. She gripped the cold glass tightly so the shaking of her hand wouldn’t cause her to let it drop. Stupid nerves. There was no real...August 2014•156 pages - #5
Save:A witty, fresh twist on the body swap trope with plenty of laughs and heart - a great beach or buddy read, especially for moms. It’s mostly light fun but comes with modern social commentary and a few cringe-worthy moments for some, so check your comfort zone before diving in!
'The Seven Day Switch' by Kelly Harms is a heartwarming tale that follows the lives of two neighbors, Celeste and Wendy, who have a passive-aggressive rivalry. After a body swap caused by a drunken mishap, they are forced to live each other's lives for seven days, gaining a new perspective on their own lives as well as each other's. The story delves into themes of motherhood, parenting styles, judgment, and self-discovery, all wrapped up in a humorous and entertaining narrative that keeps readers engaged throughout the book.
Though I am a celebrated productivity consultant with a standing segment on the local news, a monthly column in a top-one-hundred blog, and a small line of daily planners, there are some areas of my l...July 2021•320 pages - #6
Save:Bold, weird, deeply human - "Pizza Girl" is a memorable debut that delivers a messy, darkly funny look at young adulthood, even if the flavor isn't for everyone.
The novel "Pizza Girl" by Jean Kyoung Frazier follows the story of an 18-year-old pregnant pizza delivery girl who becomes obsessed with a woman named Jenny. Despite the heavy topics of addiction, pregnancy, and loneliness, the book manages to keep a light and quick pace, exploring themes of love, friendship, and modern ennui. The protagonist's internal monologue is lathered with intimate details, making the reader feel overwhelmed by her emotions as she navigates through a tumultuous period in her life.
The book delves into the protagonist's struggles with alcoholism, her complicated relationships with her mother and boyfriend, and her growing fixation on Jenny. Frazier's writing style is bold, honest, and unapologetic, portraying a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the protagonist's emotions and experiences as she grapples with desire, depression, and mental illness.
The first time she called in it’d been mid-June, the summer of 2011. I’d been at Eddie’s a little over a month. My uniform polo was green and orange and scratchy at the pits, people would loudly thank...June 2020•208 pages - #7
Save:An emotional and heartwarming read perfect for lovers of found family and second-chance romance, with enough drama to keep you hooked - even if not everyone’s choices will make sense to you!
Lily De Castro, a pregnant widow who has endured a loveless marriage, finds herself destitute after her husband's death. Alone and pregnant, she reaches out to a firefighter, Logan, for a job as a nanny for his daughter Hazel. Despite initial reservations and past traumas, Lily and Logan form a bond through the pregnancy and their shared pain from previous relationships. The story unfolds with themes of second chances, family dynamics, and emotional healing, as the characters navigate love, trust, and overcoming past hurts.
“That’s my point, Lily. How do you think it makes me look to have my wife standing there like an uneducated lump in front of my boss? Christ, you’re home all goddamn day – you can’t turn the TV on a...October 2014 - #8
Save:Raw, messy, and hard to put down - A White Picket Fence delivers a deep dive into marital turmoil with characters you’ll think about long after you’re done. If angsty, realistic family sagas are your thing, give it a try.
'A White Picket Fence' by Laura Branchflower delves into the seemingly perfect marriage of Phil and Lina, as well as the betrayal that rocks their relationship. The story explores the aftermath of Phil's actions, which threaten to destroy their lives and the intricate dynamics within their family. Through flawed characters and complex relationships, the author captivates readers with a narrative that evokes a range of emotions and keeps them deeply immersed in the lives of the characters.
Despite the challenges faced by Phil and Lina, the story also highlights themes of love, forgiveness, and the complexities of marriage and family life. With a focus on realistic storytelling and relatable characters, 'A White Picket Fence' offers a compelling exploration of relationships, personal growth, and the consequences of betrayal.
Lina Hunter heard the sound of the shower running when she entered her bedroom. It was Phil. She’d seen his car in the garage when she arrived home from the grocery store moments earlier. She crossed...August 2017•397 pages - #9
Save:A sweet, heartfelt graphic novel perfect for young readers navigating allergies or big changes, with lovely art and plenty of relatable moments - highly recommended for fans of coming-of-age stories.
'Allergic: A Graphic Novel' by Megan Wagner Lloyd tells the story of Maggie, a young girl who is allergic to many animals and unable to have pets. The book explores Maggie's journey of navigating life with allergies, dealing with disappointments, forming friendships, and finding resilience. The plot follows Maggie as she tries to stay optimistic despite setbacks, makes mistakes, and learns important life lessons along the way. The writing style of the book is gentle and honest, addressing serious topics like allergies, friendship, and coping with limitations in a reassuring and encouraging manner.
March 2021•231 pages - #10
Save:A gentle, life-affirming hug in book form - perfect for anyone who believes the small things are actually the big things.
"Leonard and Hungry Paul" by Ronan Hession is a quiet and heartwarming novel that follows the lives of two middle-aged bachelors, Leonard and Hungry Paul, as they navigate through a sort of early mid-life crisis. The book explores their unique friendship, their individual struggles with loneliness and self-discovery, and their unconventional ways of dealing with life's challenges, such as pondering pitfalls over a board game instead of a beer. The writing style is described as understated yet powerful, focusing on the common worries, hopes, and misunderstandings of the characters while weaving together little vignettes about contemporary silliness and the importance of friendship.
Leonard was raised by his mother alone with cheerfully concealed difficulty, his father having died tragically during childbirth. Though she was not by nature the soldiering type, she taught him to lo...August 2020•253 pages
