Books matching: guilt and secrets
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- #1
Save:'Dracula, the Un-Dead' by Dacre Stoker is a direct sequel to Bram Stoker's original Dracula, bringing back all the surviving characters from the first book, but portraying them as messed up and flawed. The plot revolves around the aftermath of the events of the original novel, particularly focusing on Quincy Harker, the son of Jonathan and Mina Harker, who has been kept in the dark about family secrets. The story unfolds with Quincy meeting a famous actor, Basarab, who becomes his mentor, leading him to follow his true dream. As the surviving characters deal with their past in their own ways, a mysterious force starts picking them off one by one, leaving the readers questioning if it's Dracula seeking revenge or someone else pulling the strings.
The writing style of the book is described as turning the original Bram Stoker story on its head, providing a fresh take on the old tale. It weaves historical events into the narrative, portraying the characters with dark and gloomy undertones, while keeping the plot moving with multiple points of view. offers a Victorian feel, set in the early 1900s, and introduces a new perspective on the events recounted in Bram Stoker's novel, suggesting that they were not accurately represented.
The inscription was the only thing Dr. Jack Seward could focus on as he felt the darkness overtake him. In the darkness was peace, with no harsh light to illuminate the tattered remains of his life. F... - #2
Save:'Bring Me Back' by B.A. Paris is a psychological thriller that revolves around Finn, whose girlfriend Layla disappeared years ago at a rest stop. Finn is now engaged to Layla's sister, Ellen, but strange occurrences begin happening, suggesting Layla might still be alive. The story is filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and unreliable narrators, keeping readers guessing until the end. The writing style is engaging, with alternating viewpoints and a fast-paced plot that delves into themes of love, secrets, and deception.
My phone rings as I’m walking through the glass-walled foyer of Harry’s impressive offices on London Wall. I turn and check the time on the digital display above the receptionist’s desk; it’s only fou... - #3
Save:'Forbidden' by Jess Michaels is the first book in 'The Wicked Woodleys' series, introducing the Woodley siblings - Edward, Evan, Gabriel, Claire, and Audrey. The story revolves around Audrey and Jude Samson, the family business manager, who develop a passionate relationship while dealing with secrets, guilt, and the consequences of forbidden love. The narrative is described as sensual, intriguing, and filled with family dynamics, emotional depth, and steamy romance.
The plot of 'Forbidden' delves into the friends-to-lovers theme between Audrey and Jude, exploring their internal conflicts, desires, and the societal expectations that challenge their relationship. The writing style of Jess Michaels is praised for its engaging prose, well-developed characters, and the seamless blending of emotional connections and intimate scenes that keep readers captivated throughout the story.
Lady Audrey perched on the edge of the loft above the stable, dangling her stockinged feet through the opening. She let out a sigh as she picked up the plate beside her abandoned slippers and took a s... - #4
Save:"My Sunshine Away" by M.O. Walsh is a coming-of-age story set in a suburban neighborhood in Louisiana in the late 1980s. The narrator, a man reflecting on his teenage years, recounts his obsession with a girl named Lindy, who is raped in their community. The book delves into the aftermath of the crime, exploring the lives of various suspects, neighbors, and classmates connected to the incident. The narrative combines elements of mystery, suspense, and nostalgia, painting a vivid picture of adolescence and the impact of a tragic event on a close-knit community.
The writing style of M.O. Walsh in "My Sunshine Away" has been praised for its engaging storytelling, vivid descriptions, and lyrical prose. Readers have commended the author for capturing the essence of a 1980s Louisiana neighborhood, portraying the complexities of teenage emotions, and skillfully weaving together a tale of innocence lost, obsession, and the search for truth amidst a backdrop of a heinous crime.
There were four suspects in the rape of Lindy Simpson, a crime that occurred directly on top of the sidewalk of Piney Creek Road, the same sidewalk our parents had once hopefully carved their initials... - #5
Save:'The Mermaid Chair' by Sue Monk Kidd is a story about Jessie, a middle-aged woman who returns to her hometown to take care of her mentally unstable mother. The narrative revolves around Jessie's journey of self-discovery as she confronts her past, her relationships, and her desires, including an unexpected romantic involvement with a monk. The plot delves into themes of marriage, family secrets, mental illness, and the consequences of one's choices, all set against the backdrop of a mysterious chair dedicated to a saint with a mythical origin. The writing style is described as beautiful, evocative, and at times difficult to read, with memorable imagery and poignant lines that capture the raw emotions and complexities of the characters' experiences.
February 17, 1988, I opened my eyes and heard a procession of sounds: first the phone going off on the opposite side of the bed, rousing us at 5:04 A.M. to what could only be a calamity, then rain pum... - #6
Save:Friend Request by Laura Marshall is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark consequences of high school bullying and the haunting impact it can have on individuals years later. The story follows Louise, a single mother who receives a friend request on Facebook from a classmate, Maria Weston, who was presumed dead after a tragic incident during their high school days. As Louise navigates through past memories and present threats, the novel weaves a suspenseful tale of guilt, secrets, and the dangers of social media manipulation. The narrative alternates between past and present timelines, building tension and mystery around the characters' intertwined fates.
For a second I miss the Facebook reference, and just see ‘Maria Weston wants to be friends’. Instinctively I slam the laptop shut. It feels as though a sponge has been lodged in my throat, soaking up ... - #7
Save:'Those Who Save Us' by Jenna Blum is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of a mother-daughter relationship set against the backdrop of WWII Germany. The narrative alternates between the past and present, following Anna's harrowing experiences during the war and her daughter Trudy's quest to uncover the truth about their family's past. Blum skillfully weaves together themes of love, sacrifice, and the lasting impact of historical trauma, creating a compelling story that explores the moral dilemmas faced by individuals caught in the turmoil of war.
The book offers a unique perspective on WWII, focusing on the experiences of ordinary German citizens like Anna and the difficult choices they had to make in order to survive. Blum's writing style is praised for its ability to bring the characters and settings to life, with vivid descriptions that immerse readers in the emotional turmoil of the characters. Through a blend of historical accuracy and fictional storytelling, 'Those Who Save Us' provides a thought-provoking exploration of resilience, forgiveness, and the enduring power of family bonds.
THE EVENING IS TYPICAL ENOUGH UNTIL THE DOG BEGINS to choke. And even then, at first, Anna doesn’t bother to turn from the Rouladen she is stuffing for the dinner that she and her father, Gerhard, wil... - #8
Save:Helena was married off to Nicholas Morgan, Marquess of Harteford, since the marriage contract paid off her father's debts. But Helena is fascinated with Nicholas, who grew up in the slums, completely unaware of his true father. He escapes from his life as a climbing boy with the help of his mentor, Jeremiah Fines a shipping merchant. Nicholas begins a new life far from the horrors of his childhood. Now the head of the company, Nicholas also finds himself a peer upon the death of his father. He sees in Helena all that is good not just her looks but her good heart, and falls in love. But Nicholas because of the shame of his past, feels unworthy of his wife, especially after a disastrous wedding night. Determined to release her from the marriage, he tries to distance himself. Just as determined to win his affection, Helena follows her husband to a bawdy house and disguised as a doxy, seduces Nicholas. Now he has guilt added to the shame of his childhood and the things he did to survive. But there are thefts from the warehouse and he engages a detective, Ambrose Kent, to look into the matter. Dubbed the 'Merchant Marquess', Nicholas has learned to ignore the insults of society but Helena does not and defends Nicholas to both society and her father. Added there is an attack on Nicholas a ghost from the past and both he and Helena learn there can be no secrets if they want to build a life as partners they must share all. Nicholas, with Helena's faith in his goodness and love, realizes he will never again be a prisoner of the past.
The lush burgundy carpeting deadened all noise, bestowing an eerie silence upon the corridor. Lady Helena Harteford shivered as a draft stirred the satin water-lilies pinned to her white tunic and bru... - #9
Save:In the graphic novel Sunny Side Up by Jennifer L. Holm, ten-year-old Sunny spends her summer with her grandfather in Florida while her family deals with her older brother's substance abuse issues. Through flashbacks and present-day interactions, readers witness Sunny navigate family secrets, guilt, and finding solace in comics and newfound friendships. The story is set in the summer of 1976, blending a poignant narrative with moments of humor and heartwarming relationships.
The book seamlessly weaves important social messages about substance abuse, family dynamics, and friendship into a relatable and engaging story. Through the character of Sunny, readers experience a child's perspective on dealing with challenging family issues, learning to cope with guilt, and finding support in unexpected places, all wrapped in a nostalgic setting of the 1970s.
- #10
Save:"The Brimstone Wedding" by Barbara Vine tells the intertwined stories of two sets of lovers - Genevieve and her TV producer, and Stella and her lover. As Stella slowly reveals her past, the mystery of Gilda Brent's death unfolds, showcasing the secrets people keep and the lengths they go to remain hidden. The plot switches seamlessly between present and flashbacks, keeping readers entertained and surprised by the unexpected ending. offers a captivating exploration of love, relationships, and the mysteries that surround them, all set in the backdrop of a foggy English countryside.
The clothes of the dead won't wear long. They fret for the person who owned them. Stella laughed when I said that. She threw back her head and laughed in the surprisingly girlish way she had. I was te...
