Books matching: haunting past trauma
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- #1
'The Shadows' by Alex North is a psychological thriller following Paul Adams, who returns to his hometown of Gritten Wood after 25 years due to his dying mother. The story revolves around a murder linked to a group of disturbed teenagers, with rumors of a copycat murderer on the loose. Told through the perspectives of Paul and Detective Amanda Beck, the book explores themes of lucid dreaming, past traumas, and chilling secrets hidden in the dark woods surrounding the town. The narrative weaves between past and present, building suspense with multiple twists, turns, and unexpected revelations, making it a compelling and eerie read.
The book's writing style is described as effortlessly creating a creepy vibe with short, digestible chapters that effectively alternate between past and present timelines. The author skillfully builds suspense and leaves readers hanging at the end of each chapter, keeping them engaged and intrigued throughout the story. The plot delves into themes of manipulation, nightmares turning into reality, and the vulnerability of young minds to believe in dark legends, offering a blend of horror, suspense, and mystery that captivates readers till the end.
On the day it began, Detective Amanda Beck was technically off work. She slept late. Having been woken in the early hours by the familiar nightmare, she clung to the thin threads of sleep for as long ... - #2
"The Long and Faraway Gone" by Lou Berney is a gripping tale that weaves together three subplots set in Oklahoma City in 1986. The story follows two main characters, Wyatt and Julianna, who are both haunted by traumatic events from their past. As Wyatt, a Las Vegas private detective, tries to uncover the mystery of who is harassing his sister-in-law, he is forced to confront unanswered questions from his own past trauma. Meanwhile, Julianna, a nurse still grappling with her sister's disappearance in 1986, embarks on a dangerous quest for the truth. The author expertly intertwines these characters' lives and past tragedies, creating a deeply satisfying thriller with a touch of wit and humor.
The Lexus, a block ahead, stopped at the Shell station. Wyatt played it safe and tucked into a gravel parking lot behind the Flamingo garage. He didn’t want to spook Bledsoe. On the Strip, with all th... - #3
'Burn the Negative' by Josh Winning is a horror novel that follows the story of Laura Warren, a journalist tasked with covering the making of a streaming series based on a cursed '90s horror film called The Guesthouse, in which she starred as a child actress. As Laura delves into the production, she is forced to confront her traumatic past and the dark events surrounding the film. The book combines elements of suspense, horror, and mystery, keeping readers engaged with a chilling experience as Laura, along with her sister and a psychic, battles against the curse that has haunted her for years.
The narrative of 'Burn the Negative' unfolds in Los Angeles, where Laura's journey to the set of the new horror series is marked by eerie occurrences and supernatural events. Drawing inspiration from classic horror films, the book weaves a tale of suspense and terror, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. With well-developed characters and a homage to campy horror, the story takes readers on a mind-bending adventure filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations.
- #4
'Ritual' by Mo Hayder is a dark and suspenseful crime thriller that follows DI Jack Caffery as he investigates a case involving African witchcraft and mutilation. The story delves into the haunted pasts of the main characters, including Jack's search for his missing brother and Flea Marley's struggle with the death of her parents. The plot is filled with gruesome and unsettling details, keeping the reader on edge with its unpredictable twists and turns. Hayder's writing style expertly blends elements of horror and suspense, creating a chilling atmosphere that lures readers deeper into the sinister world she has crafted.
Just after lunch on a Tuesday in May and nine feet under water in Bristol’s ‘floating harbour’, police diver Sergeant ‘Flea’ Marley closed her gloved fingers round a human hand. She was half taken off...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Jack Caffery ) - #5
'Show No Mercy' by Cindy Gerard is a fast-paced romantic suspense novel that follows the story of Gabe Jones, a troubled member of the Black Ops team, haunted by the violent death of his girlfriend. When journalist Jenna McMillan returns to Argentina to cover a story and is saved by Gabe from a car bomb, their paths intertwine. As they navigate through dangerous situations, a conspiracy unfolds, and they must work together to take down a ruthless enemy while fighting the growing attraction between them. The book expertly balances romance and suspense, with well-written characters and a plot that keeps the readers engaged throughout.
The writing style of 'Show No Mercy' is described as engaging and captivating, with a perfect blend of action, romance, and suspense. The characters of Gabe and Jenna are portrayed as complex and compelling, with their individual struggles and past traumas adding depth to the storyline. The book is praised for its fast-paced narrative, well-executed suspense plot, and the chemistry between the main characters that keeps readers hooked till the end.
A week ago, on the first day of the cattle drive when they’d started moving her dad’s herd down the mountain, Jenna had learned that the gelding didn’t need her help. The horse knew exactly what he wa... - #6
Blood of the Earth is the first book in the Soulwood series by Faith Hunter. It follows the story of Nell, a young woman who escaped a religious cult but is still haunted by her past. Nell's world is turned upside down when she gets involved with PsyLED, a supernatural police force, and starts to explore her unique powers. The book delves into themes of family, community, cult life, and self-discovery, all set in a world full of magic possibilities.
Edgy and not sure why, I carried the basket of laundry off the back porch. I hung my T-shirts and overalls on the front line of my old-fashioned solar clothes dryer, two long skirts on the outer line,... - #7
'Texas Glory' by Lorraine Heath is the second installment in the 'Texas' series, following the story of Dallas Leigh, an empire builder in West Texas, who is determined to have a son to carry on his legacy. Facing a feud over land rights with the McQueen family, Dallas strikes a deal to marry Cordelia, the daughter of his rival, in exchange for access to water and the hope of a son. The story delves into the complexities of their arranged marriage, exploring Dallas' gruff exterior and Cordelia's sheltered upbringing, as they navigate their fears and misunderstandings to find love and understanding.
The writing style of Lorraine Heath in 'Texas Glory' is praised for its emotional depth and character development. portrays the struggles of Dallas and Cordelia, both haunted by their past traumas and fears, as they learn to communicate and open up to each other. The plot unfolds with moments of darkness and emotional turmoil, leading to a hard-fought happy ending that keeps readers engaged and emotionally invested in the characters' journey.
He was a man with a solitary dream that remained untouched, the one that had served as the guiding beacon for every goal that he had fulfilled. Without the realization of his greatest desire, his othe...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Texas ) - #8
'Black Dog Blues' in the 'Kai Gracen' series by Rhys Ford is an urban fantasy story following Kai Gracen, an Elvish Stalker who takes on unique and dangerous jobs in a world where the Fae world has merged with Earth. The story is filled with action, mystery, and detailed world-building, featuring a cast of characters dealing with treachery, magical creatures, and intense personal struggles. Kai Gracen is portrayed as a resilient and scrappy protagonist, haunted by his past but determined to survive and carve out his own path in a post-apocalyptic San Diego.
The plot revolves around Kai's encounters with Elvin creatures, dragons, and reptilian dogs while navigating through a dangerous landscape full of court intrigues and power struggles. As Kai is drawn into a deadly mission that brings him face to face with the elfin court and a Sidhe lord named Ryder, he must confront his past traumas and make difficult choices that will determine his future.
The nick below the tip of my right ear itched, and when I scratched at it, the itch fled, traveling down my stomach and into my crotch. I willed it to go away, and after annoying me for a few seconds,... - #9
In "Let Sleeping Dukes Lie" by Emily Windsor, the story follows Alexander Westhide, Duke of Rakecombe, and Aideen Quinlan as they navigate a complex relationship filled with passion and challenges. Aideen, a fiery Irish woman, finds herself entangled with the enigmatic Duke, who is haunted by his past traumas. As they face compromising situations, secrets, and misunderstandings, their love story unfolds amidst a backdrop of spies, adventure, and Regency charm. The writing style is praised for its historical accuracy, engaging characters, and witty dialogue that keeps readers captivated throughout the book.
The gentleman breathed her name, husky and low in the sombre shadows, and he leaned closer, pressing her body to the fluted column at the concealed edge of the terrace, hands raised to her shoulders w...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Rules of the Rogue ) - #10
'The Last Girl' by Kitty Thomas is a dark and erotic tale that delves into the twisted relationship between Juliette, a young woman haunted by her past trauma, and Christian, a 782-year-old vampire who becomes obsessed with her. The story explores themes of fear, ownership, and the blurred lines between lust and love. With elements of non-consensual acts, exhibitionism, and brutal sexuality, the book follows Juliette's journey as she becomes Christian's human pet, navigating the dark desires and manipulations of her captor.
The narrative is characterized by a gripping and intense atmosphere, drawing readers into a world where boundaries are pushed and morality is questioned. Kitty Thomas skillfully weaves a story that is both terrifying and beautiful, showcasing the complexities of power dynamics and emotional entanglements in a relationship built on dominance and submission.
The sweat lays on my skin like a clammy glove, like the death I barely escaped—or so I tell myself. In reality it’s been years, but the dreams keep coming, leaving the event forever fresh in my mind. ...