Books matching: family obligations
100 result(s)
- #1
'The Bright Lands' by John Fram is a supernatural horror novel set in a rural, working-class town in Texas. The plot revolves around Joel, a successful financial wizard, who returns to his hometown after receiving a strange text from his younger brother Dylan. As they investigate Dylan's disappearance, they uncover dark secrets and a sinister presence lurking in the town. The book combines elements of crime fiction, horror, and mystery, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged till the end.
The little party which had started in Tulum on Monday had somehow only just ended at Joel’s apartment a few minutes before the text arrived. An international bender. It sounded fun on paper. Joel had ... - #2
The narrative alternates between Ben and Laura, extending over the length of a whole day, some weeks after their chance encounter. Gale slowly reveals his characters' strengths and weaknesses, their ideas and emotions expertly conveyed. The story follows Laura, who returns to Winchester to care for her elderly mother, bumping into Ben, her former beau, who is now a doctor specializing in sexually transmitted diseases. Set mainly over the course of a single summer's day, the book delves into missed opportunities, family obligations, and the rekindling of passion between Laura and Ben.
- #3
A Wallflower Christmas is a novella that serves as a delightful epilogue to the Wallflower series by Lisa Kleypas. Set during Christmas in London, the story follows the wealthy American Rafe Bowman as he arrives to meet his intended bride, Lady Natalie, but finds himself drawn to her companion, Hannah. With the Wallflowers playing matchmaker, unexpected consequences ensue, making it a Christmas to remember. The book captures the essence of Victorian celebrations, filled with romantic entanglements, witty banter, and heartwarming moments, all wrapped in Kleypas's charming writing style.
“It’s official,” Lillian, Lady Westcliff, said with satisfaction, setting aside the letter from her brother. “Rafe will reach London in precisely a fortnight. And the clipper’s name is the Whirlwind, ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Wallflowers ) - #4
Dominicana by Angie Cruz tells the story of Ana, a young girl from the Dominican Republic who is forced into a loveless marriage with an older man, Juan, in order to secure a better life for her family in the United States. Set in the 1960s, the book explores Ana's struggles as an immigrant in New York City, her turbulent relationship with her husband and his brother, and her journey towards independence and self-discovery. The novel is praised for its powerful storytelling, vivid descriptions of the time period and locations, and the emotional depth of the protagonist.
The first time Juan Ruiz proposes, I’m eleven years old, skinny and flat-chested. I’m half asleep, my frizzy hair has busted out from a rubber band, and my dress is on backwards. Every other weekend J... - #5
Sabrina, a simple country girl, is making her London debut and finds herself entangled in a scandal orchestrated by a jealous debutante, Ophelia. Meanwhile, Duncan MacTavish, the heir to his English grandfather's title, is set to marry Ophelia but forms a close friendship with Sabrina instead. As the story unfolds, relationships are tested, love interests shift, and the characters navigate through misunderstandings and manipulations in a Regency-era setting.
The plot revolves around the dynamics between the characters, with themes of friendship, betrayal, romance, and family ties taking center stage. The writing style is described as engaging, with multi-faceted characters and a storyline that keeps readers invested in the unfolding drama and relationships.
They stared out the window at the bleak, winter-touched garden where the girl walked. It was small, though the town house was large and in a fashionable area of London—there simply wasn’t much land av... - #6
'An Impossible Attraction' in the series 'The deWarenne Dynasty' by Brenda Joyce tells the story of Alexandra and Stephan, whose relationship is filled with misunderstandings, lust, and love. The plot revolves around the challenges they face in overcoming their differences with the help of friends and family to achieve their happily ever after. The writing style captures the intense attraction between the main characters from their first meeting, creating a story filled with drama, emotional turmoil, and steamy scenes that keep the readers engaged.
Alexandra Bolton stared in some surprise at her grim, rather disheveled father. He had just summoned her and her two younger sisters into the small, shabby library where he occasionally looked at the ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The deWarenne Dynasty ) - #7
'Captive Bride' in the series 'The Ghost of Gwynedd Castle' by Katharine Ashe follows the story of Bea Sinclaire and Lord Peter Cheriot (Tip) as they navigate a haunted castle in Scotland. When a ghost claims Bea as his betrothed, Tip must race against time to rescue her before All Hallows Eve. The storyline involves a mix of historical elements, charming character development, and a touch of romance, all intertwined with the social norms of the time.
Bea, a loyal and selfless character, finds herself torn between her family obligations and her feelings for Tip. As they face the challenges posed by the haunted castle and the ghostly presence, Bea and Tip's relationship evolves, culminating in a rewarding conclusion that showcases their growth and the depth of their connection.
- #8
'Beefcakes' by Katana Collins follows the story of high school sweethearts Neil Evans and Elaina 'Lainey' Dyker who reunite after a decade apart. Neil, a former Mr. Universe winner turned stuntman, returns to Maple Grove to help his family save their bakery. When Neil and his brother create a unique dessert delivery service called Beefcakes, it leads to unexpected demand and reconnects him with Lainey. The story delves into their past, their unresolved feelings, and the challenges they face in balancing love, family, and personal growth. The writing style is a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and emotional depth, keeping readers engaged with its sweet and humorous narrative.
- #9
'Like Water' by Rebecca Podos follows Savannah, a recent high school graduate living in a small town in New Mexico. She grapples with the uncertainty of her future as her father's Huntington's disease diagnosis looms over her. Feeling the weight of her family obligations, Savannah finds solace in an unexpected friendship with Leigh, a genderqueer individual, which blossoms into a romantic relationship. The book delves into themes of self-discovery, sexuality, and family dynamics, all while Savannah navigates the challenges of her personal life and relationships.
Podos' writing in 'Like Water' is described as beautiful, lyrical, and raw, seamlessly weaving Spanish phrases into the dialogue to add authenticity to the characters and setting. The story is character-driven, focusing on the authentic and messy relationships portrayed, particularly the evolving dynamics between Savannah, Leigh, and their families. The narrative explores Savannah's journey of self-acceptance, her struggles with anxiety and fear about her future, and her exploration of her bisexuality, offering a poignant and relatable coming-of-age story.
Before everything else was New Year’s morning three years ago, in the subarctic dining room at Silvia’s. Crumbs clung to my gloves as I poured tortilla chips into baskets, shivering in my pink peacoat... - #10
Gilded Ashes by Rosamund Hodge is a gothic retelling of the classic Cinderella story set in the world of the author's previous works. The novella follows Maia, a strong and audacious character who navigates a world of demons, magic, and dark bargains. As she becomes entangled in a dangerous game of love and deception with Lord Anax, heir to the Duke of Sardis, Maia must confront her past, face her fears, and make choices that will determine her future.
The story is rich in mystery, romance, and spine-tingling chills, offering a fully realized and satisfying tale that leaves readers yearning for more. Through vivid storytelling and complex character relationships, Gilded Ashes weaves a haunting narrative of darkness, grief, love, and hope, exploring themes of oppression, sacrifice, and the power of inner strength.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Fairy Tales )