Books matching: independence and personal growth
63 result(s)
- #1
Save:'The Care and Feeding of Stray Vampires' by Molly Harper follows the story of Iris Scanlon, a human who runs a concierge service for vampires in Half Moon Hollow. When she discovers her newest client, Cal, poisoned in his kitchen, she agrees to hide him at her place while he recovers and investigates the mystery behind the poisoning. As Iris breaks her own rules to help Cal, their relationship evolves into a mix of intrigue and romance, adding a touch of personal growth to her quiet life. is set in a world where vampires and humans coexist, with humorous banter, quirky characters, and light-hearted moments sprinkled throughout the plot.
The writing style of Molly Harper in 'The Care and Feeding of Stray Vampires' is described as charming, funny, and light-hearted. The author introduces new characters in the Half Moon Hollow series, offering a stand-alone story with a focus on paranormal romance chick-lit elements. balances a mix of humor, romance, and a touch of mystery, creating an engaging narrative that keeps readers entertained with witty dialogue, lovable characters, and a storyline that blends personal relationships with supernatural elements.
I was a good person. I went to church on the “big days.” I was a college graduate. Nice, God-fearing people with bachelor’s degrees in botany should not end up standing in the pharmacy aisle at Walmar... - #2
Save:"The Perfume Collector" by Kathleen Tessaro follows the intertwined stories of Grace Monroe and Eva d'Orsey, set in different time periods. Grace, a dissatisfied socialite in 1955 London, unexpectedly inherits from Eva, a mysterious benefactor she has never met. As Grace delves into Eva's past in Paris, the novel alternates between the 1920s and 1950s, unraveling the secrets of Eva's life and the connection between the two women. The plot also delves into the world of perfume-making, adding a unique element to the narrative. The writing style shifts between the two protagonists' perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of historical fiction that explores themes of identity, choices, and family ties.
Taking another drag from a cigarette, she looked out of the window, into the cold misty morning. Paris was waking now, the grey dawn, streaked with orange, seeping slowly into a navy sky. She’d been u... - #3
Save:'A Desperate Fortune' by Susanna Kearsley is a historical fiction novel that follows the story of Sara Thomas, a codebreaker with Asperger's, who is tasked with deciphering the diary of Mary Dundas, a woman from the Jacobite movement in Europe. The book alternates between Sara's present-day struggles to decode the diary and Mary's adventurous journey in the 18th century as part of a cover for a Jacobite on the run. Both women find romance along the way, adding a layer of synchronicity to the narrative. Susanna Kearsley seamlessly weaves real history into the story, creating a captivating blend of romance and historical intrigue that keeps readers engaged.
My father’s wild Aunt Lucy, nearly lost in layered flounces of bronze taffeta, tried once to herd us back as we went past. “Oh, girls, you mustn’t run away. Go on, get in there. Have a go.” Smiling at... - #4
Save:Friends and Foes by Sarah M. Eden is a Regency romance novel set in 1814 during the Napoleonic wars in England. The story follows Philip Jonquil, the Earl of Lambton, who is working for the Foreign Office to catch a dangerous spy. When Philip meets Sorrel Kendrick, a stubborn and opinionated lady, they clash immediately but are forced to spend time together during the holidays. Their initial animosity turns into mutual respect and understanding as they work together to solve a spy mystery. The book features witty banter, romantic tension, and well-developed characters, creating an engaging and entertaining read. Sarah M. Eden's writing style is described as light-hearted, humorous, and bantering, with a mix of funny and serious conversations that make the dialogue engaging and enjoyable.
Philip Jonquil walked with deceptively lazy strides down one of Maidstone’s back streets. He’d traded his signature attire of bright colors and expensive tailoring for something far more subdued. Know... - #5
Save:"Stripped" by Jasinda Wilder follows the story of Grey Amundsen, a shy and naive Pastor's daughter who ends up working as a stripper to make ends meet while studying at USC. The plot delves into Grey's struggles, her emotional journey, and her unexpected encounter with famous actor Dawson Kellor, who sees her potential beyond her circumstances. The writing style captures Grey's emotions vividly, as she navigates through challenges and attempts to break free from her past.
“No daughter of mine will engage in any such lewd and sinful behavior as dancing,” Daddy says to me, his blue eyes blazing. “It is gross and immodest and entirely sexual. I’ve seen the kind of dancing... - #6
Save:'Eight Cousins' by Louisa May Alcott follows the story of Rose, an orphaned girl who is taken care of by her Uncle Alec and her seven boy cousins. Rose's journey of discovering family dynamics, societal expectations, and personal growth is portrayed in a heartwarming and moralistic manner. The writing style is described as old-fashioned yet charming, with a focus on character development and moral lessons typical of the late 19th-century literature.
Rose sat all alone in the big best parlor, with her little handkerchief laid ready to catch the first tear, for she was thinking of her troubles, and a shower was expected. She had retired to this roo... - #7
Save:"Warrior's Song" by Catherine Coulter is set in 1272 in England and the Middle East, following the story of Chandra, a woman raised by her father to be a warrior. The plot revolves around Chandra's struggles with her arranged marriage to Jerval de Vernon, her desire to break free from traditional female roles, and her journey to find love and acceptance amidst various challenges. The writing style is described as fast-paced, filled with historical adventures that take the reader from the Welsh marches to Cumbria and the Mediterranean, offering a blend of action, romance, and character development.
- #8
Save:Heartbreaker by Linda Howard is a classic romance novel set in a western theme, where the strong, alpha male rancher, John Rafferty, offers to help the struggling Michelle Cabot with her financial troubles in exchange for a physical relationship. The book explores themes of power dynamics, independence, and past traumas as the characters navigate their complex relationship. The writing style of the book is described as old school Linda Howard, with a focus on alpha male heroes and strong heroines, set against a backdrop of heartache and external conflicts that drive the plot forward.
SHE FOUND THE paper while she was sorting through the personal things in her father’s desk. Michelle Cabot unfolded the single sheet with casual curiosity, just as she had unfolded dozens of others, b...
(Also, see 48 recommendations for the series Rescues ) - #9
Save:'3 Count' by Nikki Castle is a friends-to-lovers sports romance novel that follows the story of Aiden and Dani. Aiden, a confident and charming MMA fighter, and Dani, a strong and independent photojournalist, navigate their relationship from friends with benefits to true love. The book is filled with explosive chemistry, banter, and spicy moments, all set against the backdrop of the MMA world. The writing style is engaging, with well-developed characters and a storyline that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
(Also, see 57 recommendations for the series The Fight Game ) - #10
Save:'Independence' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a historical fiction novel that delves into the lives of three sisters during the pre-independence era of India. The book intricately weaves together the stories of these sisters as they navigate through the turmoil and challenges of the time period, set against the backdrop of India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Divakaruni's writing style masterfully incorporates cultural richness, historical accuracy, and emotional depth, capturing the essence of sisterhood, love, and sacrifice.
The novel portrays the individual paths of the three sisters, each with a unique personality and story, beautifully depicted by the author. As the narrative unfolds from 1946 to 1954, the sisters face personal struggles, heartaches, and dreams while being bound together by the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood. Through the incorporation of Bengali language, old songs, and verses, Divakaruni adds layers of cultural nostalgia and authenticity to the story, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience.
