Books matching: love, loss, trauma, self discovery
100 result(s)
- #1
The Story of Us by Tara Sivec follows the heart-wrenching journey of Shelby and Eli, two individuals whose lives are intertwined by love, tragedy, and second chances. Eli, a Marine who was believed to be dead after being held prisoner for years, clings to memories of Shelby to survive his ordeal. Meanwhile, Shelby, living a life she never envisioned for herself, is haunted by the past and the love she never stopped feeling for Eli. As fate brings them back together, both broken and scarred, they must navigate through their shared history and pain to find healing and a way forward.
The author, Tara Sivec, weaves a poignant and captivating tale that delves into themes of love, loss, redemption, and resilience. Through eloquent writing and compelling storytelling, Sivec brings to life the emotional journey of Shelby and Eli, portraying their struggles, sacrifices, and the enduring power of true love that transcends time and circumstances.
I sigh in frustration when the tiny clasp to the strand of pearls slips from my clumsy fingers yet again. I’ve been trying unsuccessfully to slip this necklace on for the last five minutes, and my arm... - #2
'Happiness' by Aminatta Forna is a novel that follows the chance meeting of two individuals, Attila and Jean, in London. Attila, a psychiatrist, has come to London for a presentation on trauma, while Jean, a biologist, is studying urban wildlife such as foxes. The story delves into themes of suffering, resilience, trauma, hope, and community as the characters navigate their emotional journeys amidst the backdrop of the city. Through their interactions and experiences, the novel explores the acceptance of impermanence and the interconnectedness of human and animal life.
The book weaves together a narrative that touches on the complexities of happiness, trauma, and wilderness, using a diverse and vivid cast of characters. It delves into the emotional depth of the protagonists, Attila and Jean, and their evolving relationship as they confront their pasts and navigate the challenges of their present lives. With lyrical prose and contemplative storytelling, 'Happiness' offers a nuanced exploration of human experiences and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
At that time of day Waterloo Bridge is busy with shoppers and weekend workers who make their way on foot across the bridge to Waterloo Station. At that time of year too, dusk comes early, by four in t... - #3
"Hiroshima Mon Amour" by Marguerite Duras is a book that delves into the themes of love and the aftermath of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. The book is a screenplay that intertwines the personal story of a woman with her Japanese lover with the historical events of Hiroshima. The writing style is described as sparse yet compelling, with a focus on building a rhythmic tension through the prose.
HE(gaily): Don't I though! I'm glad you finally noticed how well I speak French. (Pause.) I hadn't noticed that you didn't speak Japanese. . . . Have you ever noticed that it's always in the same sens... - #4
Fighting Solitude by Aly Martinez is a heartfelt story that follows Quarry Page, the youngest brother in the series 'On the Ropes'. The book explores Quarry's journey from a troubled childhood to becoming a professional boxer, intertwined with his deep friendship with Liv James that evolves into a profound love story. The writing style captures the raw emotions of the characters, from laughter to heartache, and showcases their growth and resilience through life's challenges.
I MET QUARRY PAGE IN the back alley behind On The Ropes boxing gym. He saved my life. Well, more accurately, he saved me from a life sentence in prison for killing two twelve-year-old boys who thought...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series On the Ropes ) - #5
'High Voltage' in the series 'Fever' by Karen Marie Moning follows the protagonist Dani as she navigates through dangerous situations while her body undergoes mysterious changes. The story delves into the relationships between characters like Dani, Ryodan, and the Nine, exploring themes of love, power, and self-discovery. As the plot unfolds, the battle between Fae, old gods, and mortals intensifies, revealing unintended consequences of past actions and challenging the characters to confront their vulnerabilities.
“I SMELL BONES!” SHAZAM EXPLODED, whiskers bristling with excitement. “Bones everywhere. Thousands and thousands of them! You take me to all the best places, Yi-yi!” He slanted me an adoring look befo...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Fever ) - #6
In "Providence" by Caroline Kepnes, the story revolves around Jon, a boy who is kidnapped and reappears four years later with mysterious powers and a connection to H.P. Lovecraft. The narrative follows Jon, along with his friends Chloe and Eggs, as they navigate through themes of love, obsession, and supernatural occurrences. The writing style is described as engaging with strong character voices that keep the reader engrossed in the strange and compelling storyline.
I brung Pedro home for Thanksgiving break and tomorrow I have to bring him back to school. You’re not supposed to say brung. You’re supposed to say brought. But I like the way brung sounds, like you’r... - #7
'A Soul to Revive' in the 'Duskwalker Brides' series by Opal Reyne follows the story of Emerie, a demon slayer seeking revenge for her brother's murder by a demon. When she encounters Ingram, a duskwalker captured for testing, she realizes he is not the mindless creature they are portrayed as. Together, they form an unlikely bond and strive to escape their captors, leading to a journey of growth, sacrifice, and love. The plot is filled with intense emotions, character development, and a slow-burn romance that captivates readers. Opal Reyne's detailed and relatable writing style immerses readers in a world of duskwalkers, demons, and intricate relationships, making it a rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Duskwalker Brides ) - #8
'Shark Heart' by Emily Habeck is a unique and surreal novel that explores themes of love, loss, and transformation. The story follows a man who discovers he has a mutant gene that causes him to transform into a shark, leading to a complex love story spanning different generations and perspectives. The prose is described as poetic and beautiful, containing multiple love stories between husband and wife, mother and daughter, all set in a fantastical world where people can mutate into animals.
The book is split into three parts, each offering a different perspective of the story, creating a beautiful and heartfelt narrative that delves into the depths of humanity. Despite its bizarre plot, the author skillfully uses it as a vehicle to explore profound themes of love, trauma, tragedy, and the tension between dreams and reality, ultimately breaking the reader's heart over and over again while revealing the goodness that can arise from brokenness.
- #9
In 'Death Game', the third book in the 'Supernatural Battle: Vampire Towers' series by Kelly St. Clare, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster as Basilia and Kyros navigate a tumultuous relationship filled with trust issues, secrets, and obstacles. The plot is filled with suspense, action, and twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The writing style is praised for its emotional depth, character development, and unique take on the vampire genre, creating a mystical and magical world that captivates the readers from start to finish.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Supernatural Battle: Vampire Towers ) - #10
'Astrid and Veronika' by Linda Olsson is a poignant tale of friendship between two women, Astrid and Veronika, who are both dealing with their own demons and tragedies. Set in a small village in Sweden, the story follows the unlikely bond that forms between Veronika, a young woman grieving the loss of her fiance, and Astrid, an elderly recluse known as the village witch. Through the changing seasons, the women gradually open up to each other, sharing their pasts and finding solace in each other's company. The writing style is described as gentle, serene, and beautifully evocative of the Swedish setting, capturing the themes of love, loss, and human connection.