Books matching: growth and resilience
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- #1
Fierce romance, emotional healing, and sexy cowboys - if you like your love stories with steam and substance, Branded as Trouble delivers on all fronts!
'Branded as Trouble' in the 'Rough Riders' series by Lorelei James follows the story of Colt McKay, a recovering alcoholic, and India Ellison, a tattoo artist also in recovery. The book delves into their past struggles with addiction and the challenges they face as they navigate a romantic relationship. Colt and India's friendship evolves into something more as they deal with family dynamics, personal insecurities, and the complexities of their newfound feelings for each other. The writing style captures the emotional journey of the characters, balancing flirtatious and passionate moments with realistic portrayals of their past histories and personal growth.
At least that part of his fantasy had come true. Colt was in bed. He was even laying face down on a puffy tie-dyed quilt with a woman beside him. However, he was not basking in the afterglow of red-ho... - #2
A bold, high-stakes love story that’s heavy on angst and emotion - fans of dramatic, unconventional historical romance will eat this up, but it’s not for those who shy away from controversial tropes and big feelings!
"The Earl Takes All" by Lorraine Heath is a historical romance novel set in the Hellions of Havisham series. The story revolves around Edward Alcott, who is forced to impersonate his deceased twin brother, Albert, to fulfill his brother's dying wish of caring for Albert's pregnant wife, Julia. As Edward masquerades as his brother, he finds himself falling deeply in love with Julia, despite the deception. The plot is filled with emotional conflicts, love, guilt, and historical obstacles that the characters must navigate to achieve their happy ending. Heath's writing style is praised for creating complex and captivating relationships between characters that seem impossible but ultimately work out beautifully.
Mr. Edward Alcott, brother to the Earl of Greyling, met an untimely end during their recent travels in Africa. Sadder still is the knowledge that he failed to accomplish anything of note during his tw...April 2016•385 pages - #3
'Fortune's Fool' by Mercedes Lackey is a fantastical, fairy tale style novel set in the Five Hundred Kingdoms series. The story follows Katya, a mermaid who can walk on land and acts as a spy for her underwater kingdom. She meets Sasha, the seventh son and Fortune's Fool, who becomes her love interest. As they navigate their romance, they must also deal with the influence of The Tradition, a magical force that shapes the stories and destinies of the people in the Five Hundred Kingdoms. The plot involves a mix of fairy tale motifs from various cultures, including Russian and Japanese tales, creating a unique and engaging narrative. The book is described as a light, enjoyable read with elements of romance, adventure, and magic intertwined within the story.
Shafts of golden light pierced the green twilight, penetrating the waving fronds of the forest to leave pools of light on the ground. The path to the Great Palace, paved with pearl shell, unraveled al...February 2007•366 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Five Hundred Kingdoms ) - #4
A heartfelt, low-drama, post-apocalyptic story with a spot-on blend of realism and hope. Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven journeys, understated romance, and a touch of adventure with a side of fuzzies.
'The End of All Things' by Lissa Bryan follows the story of Carly and Justin as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a deadly virus that has decimated the human and animal populations. Carly, initially alone in the aftermath of the epidemic, is joined by Justin, a former soldier, as they embark on a journey from Alaska to a warmer climate in Florida, encountering other survivors along the way. The plot focuses on their survival, the challenges they face, the relationships they build, and the hope they hold onto in a world forever changed. The writing style is described as compelling, vivid, and believable, with a touch of fatalism that adds depth to the characters' experiences and emotions.
It had been a week since the Biker Guy appeared and set up camp on the sidewalk across the street from her apartment building. He was the first healthy person she’d seen in weeks. At first she wasn’t...2013•282 pages - #5
A feel-good, emotionally rich slow burn with endearing characters and just the right balance of humor and heart - perfect for romance readers who love character-driven stories with a real sense of growth and hope.
'Bulldozer' by P. Dangelico is a contemporary romance novel from the 'Hard to Love' series, focusing on the story of Amanda Shaw, a single mother and successful businesswoman, and Grant Hendricks, a professional football player recovering from a severe back injury. The plot revolves around their unexpected shared living situation in the exclusive Hamptons, leading to initial clashes and gradual understanding, aided by Amanda's son, Sam. The writing style is described as a mix of fun, emotions, and humor, with a slow-burn romance that develops realistically, avoiding insta-love cliches.
I learned a long time ago not to lay tracks too far ahead of Life, that she's a fickle bitch with a mind of her own and likes to have a say in which direction I travel. It's taught me to prepare for a...November 2018•319 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Hard to Love ) - #6
A snarky, warm, and sharply observed novel about life's messes and the people who help us through them. Easy to read and full of wit - perfect for fans of character-driven, feel-good fiction with a real-life edge.
"My Ex-Life" by Stephen McCauley is a story that follows the lives of two ex-spouses, David and Julie, as they navigate through their past and present. David, a college counselor in San Francisco, is contacted by Julie to help their daughter Mandy with her college applications. As David travels to the East Coast to assist Mandy, he finds himself reconnecting with Julie and getting involved in their complex family dynamics. The book explores themes of love, friendship, and second chances, with a mix of humor and poignant moments. The writing style is described as witty, insightful, and character-driven, portraying realistic relationships and emotions.
Julie touched the pocket of her white shirt. Yes, the joint was still there, and no, she wasn’t going to smoke it. She’d given up pot, and thank god for that. Life was so much more clear and simple wi...May 2018•432 pages - #7
A classic teen space adventure full of Heinlein charm and big ideas, but be ready for some old-fashioned world-building and 1950s quirks. Great for sci-fi fans who enjoy vintage tales - and young readers wanting a gateway to Heinlein.
Between Planets by Robert A. Heinlein is a juvenile science fiction novel set in an interplanetary war between Earth and Venus. The protagonist, Don Harvey, is caught in the middle as his parents are from different planets. The book explores themes of rebellion, honor, and friendship, with plenty of action and excitement. The writing style is described as engaging and compelling, keeping the reader's attention until the end.
Don Harvey reined in the fat little cow pony. Ordinarily Lazy lived up to his name; today he seemed to want to go places. Don hardly blamed him. It was such a day as comes only to New Mexico, with sky...January 1951•240 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Heinlein's Juveniles ) - #8
Enchanting, atmospheric, and romantic - a gentle magical tale for lovers of historical fiction, but may be too slow or familiar for some.
'The Winter Witch' by Paula P.J. Brackston is a historical fiction novel set in 19th century Wales, focusing on the story of Morgana, a mute young woman with mysterious gifts, who is married to Cai Jenkins, a drover. The plot revolves around Morgana's journey as she discovers her magical abilities and faces challenges from a powerful witch, Isolda, who threatens their peaceful life in the Welsh countryside. The writing style is described as detailed, lush, and filled with historical and magical elements, creating a captivating and immersive reading experience.
Does the spider consider herself beautiful? When she gazes into a dewdrop, does her reflection please her? Her web is finer than the finest lace, her body a bobbin working her own whisper thread. It i...January 2013•397 pages - #9
A Single Thread is a quiet, thoughtful celebration of women's inner lives, courage, and the power of creating your own place in history - even if the pace is gentle and the stakes are personal rather than epic.
'A Single Thread' tells the story of Violet Speedwell, a 38-year-old surplus woman navigating life after the devastation of WWI. With both her fiancé and brother lost to the war, Violet seeks independence from her controlling mother by moving to Winchester. There, she becomes involved with the Broderer's Guild, a group of women who create intricate embroidery for the cathedral. Through her newfound friendships and involvement in the community, Violet begins to forge a new identity and purpose for herself amid the societal challenges faced by women in the interwar period.
The writing style of Tracy Chevalier is noted for its engaging and informative nature, providing a rich historical backdrop that immerses readers in the world of embroidery and bell ringing. The narrative is described as quiet and slow-paced, allowing for deep character development and exploration of themes such as independence, community, and the struggles of surplus women. While some readers found the plot's pacing lacking, others appreciated the detailed depiction of the characters' lives and the historical context, making it a thoughtful reflection on women's experiences during a transformative time in England.
The shusher, an officious woman sporting a helmet of grey hair, had planted herself squarely in the archway that led into the choir, Violet’s favourite part of Winchester Cathedral. The choir was righ...September 2019•339 pages - #10Trustby:
Raw, real, and unexpectedly moving - "Trust" is a standout for anyone craving a slow-burn romance with depth, sass, and emotional honesty.
After being held hostage during a robbery at the local convenience store, seventeen-year-old Edie finds her attitude about life shattered. Unwilling to put up with the snobbery and bullying at her private school, she enrolls at the local public high school, crossing paths with John. The boy who risked his life to save hers. Their friendship, while based on a traumatic experience, blossoms into something that is less co-dependent and more about being there for each other, and bringing out the best in each other. With John's help, as well as Edie's new best girlfriend, Hang, Edie embarks on a personal challenge of living life and experiencing all of those firsts. It's in this challenge that Edie and John grow closer. But Edie can't deny her attraction to John and who could blame her.
Edie's life starts off like most young teenagers. Her plan is to graduate high school and move on to Berkley. This plan was going well until Edie is held at gunpoint at her local late-night store. She goes that night to grab snacks for a Harry Potter movie marathon (my kind of person). While being held at gunpoint she gets to know another hostage called John. John, who was at the late-night convenience store selling weed to another high school student, helps her through the situation.
Rain had turned every pothole in the Drop Stop’s parking lot into a mini-swamp. We were finally out of a drought, so yay for rain. Bottle caps and cigarette stubs were floating like tiny boats on murk...July 2017•377 pages










