Books matching: family trauma and grief
38 result(s)
- #1Locke & Key, Vol. 1: Welcome to LovecraftBook 1 in the series:Locke & Key
'Locke & Key, Vol. 1: Welcome to Lovecraft' follows the Locke family as they move to their family estate in Lovecraft after the tragic death of their father. In the mansion named Keyhouse, the children discover keys with magical powers and doors leading to mysterious realms. As they uncover the secrets of the house, they encounter dark fantasy elements verging on horror, including an evil entity locked in the well house. The story is intricately woven with complex characters and a plot that balances between horror and heartbreak, all set in a gothic, noir atmosphere with realistic and detailed artwork.
- #2
'A Father's Story' by Lionel Dahmer delves into the heartbreaking journey of a father, Lionel Dahmer, who grapples with the unimaginable reality of his son, Jeffrey Dahmer, being a notorious serial killer. Lionel Dahmer reflects on his son's upbringing, his own experiences, and attempts to understand the factors that led Jeffrey down such a dark path. Through raw and honest storytelling, Lionel shares his observations, struggles, and unwavering love for his son, despite the horrific crimes he committed. The narrative not only provides insight into Jeffrey's background but also offers a poignant exploration of a father's unconditional love amidst profound tragedy.
The writing style of 'A Father's Story' is compelling and evocative, drawing readers into Lionel Dahmer's emotional journey as he grapples with his son's heinous actions. offers a deeply personal account of Lionel's reflections, memories, and attempts to make sense of the incomprehensible. Through introspection and self-analysis, Lionel sheds light on the complexities of parenthood, mental health, and the enduring bond between a father and his child, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read.
My son Jeff was born in Milwaukee on May 21, 1960. It had not been an easy pregnancy. My wife had gotten pregnant very quickly, only two months after our marriage, and neither of us, I suppose, was re... - #3
'The Mermaids Singing' by Lisa Carey is a multigenerational novel set in two different countries, focusing on three women from different generations - Cliona, Grace, and Grainne. The story delves into themes of familial bonds, emotional journeys, and the ties between the women. The writing style is described as enchanting, with lovely, descriptive language capturing the rhythm of island life well. The narrative is told from multiple narrators' points of view, including some in flashback, creating a beautiful tale cycling unbeknownst to the characters in their own voices.
It is only at night now that she has the strength to wander. Rising quietly, so as not to disturb her lover, Grace pulls a sweater over her pajamas, slips her feet into running sneakers. Stephen had b... - #4
"The Gloaming" by Kirsty Logan is a haunting and emotionally resonant novel set on a remote Scottish island where people do not die but turn to stone, gazing out to sea. The story follows Mara and her family as they grapple with past decisions, new desires, and a devastating loss that scarred Mara both physically and emotionally. When a mysterious arrival offers a chance for Mara to move on, it brings its own set of challenges, leading to a tale rich in folklore and themes of transformation, transience, and permanence, all beautifully woven together through Logan's bewitching prose and dark humor.
The narrative of "The Gloaming" unfolds through the perspectives of characters like Mara, Signe, Peter, and Pearl, each grappling with their own desires and struggles amidst a backdrop of mythical creatures, folklore, and the ever-present force of nature. Logan seamlessly blends elements of magical realism and gothic atmosphere, creating a story that delves into themes of relationships, loss, grief, and the beauty found in coping with the inevitable, all while painting a vivid picture of the isolated island and the characters who inhabit it.
THAT LAST SUMMER, the sea gave us jellyfish. Every morning when the water slid back and revealed the stony beach, there they’d be: dozens of squishy, silvered things with their purple threaded innards... - #5
Songs for the Missing by Stewart O'Nan is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves into the aftermath of teenager Kim Larsen's disappearance in a small town in Ohio. Through the perspectives of family and friends, the reader witnesses the struggles, emotions, and search efforts that unfold as they come to terms with the tragedy. O'Nan's storytelling skill brings to life the characters and their interconnected lives, portraying their journey from clinging to hope to facing the harsh reality of loss.
The narrative in Songs for the Missing is a poignant exploration of human emotions and relationships in the face of a devastating loss. O'Nan intricately weaves together the experiences of each character, capturing the rawness and authenticity of their reactions to Kim's disappearance. The novel offers a deep dive into the complexities of grief, hope, and acceptance, painting a vivid picture of a family and community grappling with the unknown and the aftermath of a life-altering event.
- #6
'Don't Date Rosa Santos' by Nina Moreno is a heartwarming story that delves into the lives of three generations of women dealing with a family curse. Set in a coastal Florida town, the protagonist, Rosa, must confront her fear of the sea as she comes together with her community to save the marina. The book beautifully explores themes of family, friendship, and community while weaving in elements of brujería, creating a touching and magical narrative that captures the reader's heart.
The novel also delves into the complexities of mother-daughter relationships within the Santos family. Rosa's journey to uncover her Cuban heritage, despite the reluctance of her mother and grandmother, reflects the struggles of many Cuban Americans in connecting with their roots. Through Rosa's desire to study abroad in Cuba, the book portrays the intergenerational tensions, grief, and unspoken traumas that shape the dynamics between the women in the family, offering a poignant exploration of identity and heritage.
- #7
In Help for the Haunted by John Searles, Sylvie and Rose are teenage sisters whose parents, known for helping haunted individuals, are mysteriously murdered. The story unfolds through flashbacks and present-day events, exploring the family dynamics, the murder mystery, and the sisters' quest for answers. The writing style includes vivid imagery, nonlinear storytelling, and a mix of paranormal elements with a focus on family relationships and character development.
My mother picked up on the first ring so as not to wake my sister, if she was home, or me. In hushed tones, she soothed the caller before handing the phone to my father. His voice was stiffer, more fo... - #8
On the Night Plain by J. Robert Lennon is a novel set in the 1940s on a sheep ranch in an unforgiving western landscape. The story follows the lives of two brothers, Grant and Max, as they navigate a complex relationship with each other and with the woman they both love. The narrative explores themes of loss, isolation, and the impact of family dynamics on shaping the characters' lives. The writing style is described as bleakly beautiful, with precise language and a minimalist narrative that captivates readers from the first page to the bitter end.
- #9
Bad Cree by Jessica Johns is an Indigenous wendigo horror novel that delves into the themes of family bonds and grief, particularly among women. The story follows a Cree woman who is haunted by nightmares of her dead sister and must reconnect with the women in her family to uncover the truth behind these eerie occurrences. Set in Vancouver and rural Alberta, the book combines elements of supernatural horror with a focus on indigenous culture and family relationships, creating a gripping narrative with a slow-building tension that keeps readers engaged until the end.
- #10
'Forever Never Always' in the 'Forester Family Series' by author Hanna Holt follows the story of April and Ash, who reunite after seven years. Ash, now the legal guardian of his eight siblings, juggles family responsibilities and the family business while April navigates life post-divorce. delves into themes of family dynamics, second chances, and navigating past traumas, all while showcasing complex characters and their emotional journeys. The writing style is described as engaging, with each character's personality vividly portrayed, making the large family aspect enjoyable for readers. The story is emotional, heartwarming, and at times, chaotic, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged and invested in the Forester family's journey.