Books matching: dysfunctional relationships
100 result(s)
- #1
'Apathy and Other Small Victories' by Paul Neilan follows the life of a middle-aged man named Shane who is portrayed as apathetic, directionless, and cynical. The story revolves around Shane's encounters with suspected murder, dysfunctional relationships, and his mundane job as a temp in an insurance agency. The writing style is described as politically incorrect, irreverent, and full of dark humor, with the main character narrating his absurdly apathetic and comedic experiences.
I was stealing saltshakers again. Ten, sometimes twelve a night, shoving them in my pockets, hiding them up my sleeves, smuggling them out of bars and diners and anywhere else I could find them. In th... - #2
'Clans of the Alphane Moon' by Philip K. Dick is a science fiction novel that delves into a bizarre and fascinating story set on a moon around Alpha Centauri, where former residents of a mental hospital have organized a new society based on their individual mental illnesses. The novel follows the interstellar politics that ensue when Earth takes an interest in the moon's inhabitants, leading to a complex narrative filled with paranoid intrigue, telepathic slime molds, dysfunctional relationships, and interplanetary conflicts. Through dark humor and a unique writing style, the author explores themes of madness, sanity, and the fluidity of human nature and perception.
Before entering the supreme council room, Gabriel Baines sent his Mans-made simulacrum clacking ahead to see if by chance it might be attacked. The simulacrum—artfully constructed to resemble Baines i... - #3
'Closer' by Mary Elizabeth is a captivating story that follows the tumultuous relationship between Teller and Ella. The plot weaves between the past and present, showcasing the intense connection between the characters that has lasted over seven years. The writing style is dynamic, with vivid descriptions that bring the story to life, making the reader feel fully immersed in the world of Teller and Ella.
The author delves into the complexities of the characters, especially Teller and Ella, who are both dealing with past traumas and personal issues. The plotline keeps the reader engaged, with a compelling and addictive story that explores the toxic yet irresistible relationship between the protagonists. ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the reader eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Thick white smoke flows from his lips, stretching toward the sky in hazy ribbons. The bitter scent of tobacco burns my nose and cuts my throat, but the discomfort is minimal in comparison to the brick... - #4
'Martin and John' by Dale Peck is a novel that delves into the themes of love, grief, and pain through unconventional narrative shifts and interconnected stories. The book follows the lives of characters named Martin and John, exploring their meeting, loving, and suffering, ultimately showcasing the solace found in life amidst anguish and dysfunction. The writing style uses repetitive imagery and themes to create a cohesive narrative, vividly portraying the struggles faced by LGBTQ individuals during the 1990s AIDS epidemic.
- #5
Love by Angela Carter is a short novel that delves into the complexities of a love triangle set in London in the 1960s. The story follows the intertwined lives of Lee, his wife Annabel, and his brother Buzz, exploring themes of destructive relationships, mental illness, and the blurred lines between reality and imagination. Carter's writing style is described as weird, fantastical, and hallucinatory, with a touch of postmodernism that creates a unique and haunting narrative experience.
ONE DAY, ANNABEL saw the sun and moon in the sky at the same time. The sight filled her with a terror which entirely consumed her and did not leave her until the night closed in catastrophe for she ha... - #6
The play 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' by Edward Albee is a dark comedy that delves into the dysfunctional relationships of two couples - the older couple, George and Martha, and the younger couple, Nick and Honey. Set during a dinner party at George and Martha's home, the play explores themes of deception, manipulation, and emotional turmoil as the characters engage in vicious mind games and brutal verbal exchanges. The plot unfolds over the course of one evening, revealing the complexities of the characters' relationships and the destructive power of their interactions.
'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' is known for its intense scrutiny of human behavior, particularly the dynamics of marriage and the facades people maintain in social settings. Albee's writing style captures the raw emotions and psychological complexities of the characters, offering a compelling narrative that exposes the characters' vulnerabilities and hidden truths amidst a backdrop of dark humor and poignant revelations.
- #7
The Weight of Lies by Emily Carpenter is a gripping psychological thriller that follows Meg Ashley, the daughter of famous author Frances Ashley. Meg's tumultuous relationship with her mother leads her to write a tell-all memoir while investigating the real-life murder mystery that inspired her mother's cult classic book, "Kitten." Set on Bonny Island, Georgia, the story weaves between the present and the past, revealing dark secrets, betrayals, and lies. As Meg delves deeper into her mother's past, she uncovers shocking truths that challenge her perception of reality.
“Kitten, dear,” her mother would say at breakfast in her musical Southern drawl, and the girl would skip from the hotel’s elegant dining room, reappearing with a fresh pitcher of orange juice for the ... - #8
Winter's Fury in the 'Furyck Saga' by A.E. Rayne is a fantasy novel that follows the journey of Jael, a strong warrior with a tomboy persona, who gets entangled in a world filled with prophecy, magic, and political intrigue. The story revolves around Jael's interactions with characters like Eadmund, a drunken prince, and Ivar, portrayed as the evil character in the narrative. The plot includes elements of fate, family issues, and kingdoms at odds with each other, all set against a backdrop of stormy weather and heavy snow. The book delves into themes of toxic romance, prophecies dictating characters' actions, and the struggle between good and evil.
Jael Furyck’s feet were slowly freezing, in wet socks, that clung unpleasantly to numb toes, sitting in damp boots, which, although new, were already leaking. She tried to focus on the uncomfortable s... - #9
"My Mistress's Sparrow is Dead" is a compilation of short stories selected by Jeffrey Eugenides, showcasing a diverse range of love stories from acclaimed authors like Faulkner, Nabokov, Chekhov, and Munro. The anthology delves into the complexities of love in various forms, exploring themes of infatuation, romance, and commitment, both within and outside of marriage. Eugenides carefully curated stories that capture the essence of love, from lust to heartbreak, creating a thought-provoking and engaging reading experience for the audience.
The stories in the anthology span the globe and the centuries, offering a unique and provocative perspective on love. Unlike traditional romantic tales, these stories delve into the darker aspects of love, portraying unrequited passion, moral ambiguity, and failed relationships. Each story is a gem in its own right, carefully selected by Eugenides to challenge the conventional notions of love and relationships, making it a captivating and memorable collection for readers seeking a deeper exploration of the human experience.
THE LATIN POET Catullus was the first poet in the ancient world to write about a personal love affair in an extended way. Other poets treated the subject of “love,” allowing the flushed cheeks or alab... - #10
'A Wild Pursuit' in the series 'Duchess Quartet' by author Eloisa James follows the story of Esme Rawlings, a pregnant widow trying to maintain respectability under the watchful eye of her straight-laced Sewing Circle. When her Aunt Arabella brings a group of witty and slightly naughty houseguests to visit, chaos ensues as Esme tries to hide her lover, the Marquess Bonnington, from being recognized. is filled with humorous situations, forbidden love, and chaotic romance plots unfolding in Esme's estate.
The story is a delightful mix of romance, humor, and intricate relationships between a large cast of characters. Readers follow Esme's journey towards respectability while navigating the complexities of love, family, and societal expectations, all set against the backdrop of a lively house party filled with quirky personalities and unexpected twists.
In the days of Esme Rawlings’s reign over London society, it took her hours to clothe herself. She would emerge as a caterpillar from its coccoon: silky black curls gleaming over pearly shoulders, bod...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Duchess Quartet )