Books matching: motherhood fears
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- #1
'Knock Knock' by S.P. Miskowski is a novel that focuses on the lives of three girls, Beverly, Ethel, and Marietta, as they grow up in the American backwoods town of Skillute. The girls, bound by a shared fear of pregnancy and motherhood, embark on a ritual in the woods to ward off these fears forever. However, their actions set off a chain of events involving legends, occult rituals, and the haunting presence of Miss Knocks, leading to a slow-building sense of unease and terror that spans over fifty years. The narrative skillfully weaves together coming-of-age themes, small-town drama, and supernatural elements, offering a fresh and original take on the horror genre.
Miskowski's writing style in 'Knock Knock' is described as beautifully written, creepy, and atmospheric, with the ability to generate eerie imagery and build a tense, oppressive atmosphere. The novel explores the lives of the three main characters, Beverly, Ethel, and Marietta, as they navigate the challenges of womanhood, relationships, and the supernatural forces at play in Skillute. The story unfolds slowly, with a focus on realistic character development and a subtle, psychological approach to horror that eschews shock and gore in favor of a deeper sense of fear and unease.
At first the spell was nothing but a game designed by little girls. As far as they knew, it was only of interest to the three of them. They never imagined what they did that afternoon would matter to ... - #2
After giving birth to twin boys, Lauren is confronted by a creepy woman in the maternity ward asking to swap babies. The babies seem to go missing in the park one day and when they are found, they've been replaced by creatures called changelings who resemble her twins but are not the same. Policewoman Harper believes Lauren's claims and investigates whether it is a sinister fairy tale or postpartum psychosis. The book weaves elements of folklore, horror, and psychological suspense, keeping the reader uncertain about the magical element or Lauren's imagination.
All she cared about was that the pain had been taken away. With it, the fear, and the certainty that she would die, all gone in the space of a few miraculous seconds. She wanted to drift off but then ... - #3
"Rosemary's Baby" by Ira Levin revolves around a young wife, Rosemary Woodhouse, who finds herself entangled in an occult plot to steal her baby for Satanistic rituals after it is born. The story is told solely through Rosemary's eyes, creating a sense of being trapped with her as she navigates through eerie occurrences and reaches a horrifying conclusion. The plot unfolds in contemporary New York City, skillfully crafted by Levin to build mounting suspense and a sense of dread throughout the narrative.
The writing style in "Rosemary's Baby" is described as simple, engrossing, and suspenseful by readers. Levin's storytelling is praised for its subtle yet creepy elements, with a slow buildup of tension leading to a chilling finale. is noted for its ability to delve into themes of satanism, witchcraft, and the fear surrounding motherhood, all set against a backdrop of everyday details that add to the overall sinister atmosphere.
ROSEMARY AND GUY WOODHOUSE had signed a lease on a five-room apartment in a geometric white house on First Avenue when they received word, from a woman named Mrs. Cortez, that a four-room apartment in... - #4
'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood is a chilling dystopian novel that paints a vivid picture of a society where women are oppressed and used for reproduction. The story follows Offred, a Handmaid in the Republic of Gilead, as she navigates her confined life under an oppressive regime. Through flashbacks, readers witness the downfall of society into a theocratic military dictatorship and the struggles of women who are reduced to mere objects for men's use. Atwood's writing style is starkly elegant, conveying the stultifying life of the central character and offering glimpses of her past existence before the world was turned upside down.
The narrative explores themes of totalitarianism, religious fundamentalism, and the exploitation of women, all set in a world where traditional values have been taken to terrifying extremes. Atwood's brilliant storytelling weaves together a thought-provoking commentary on morality, societal laws, and the consequences of a society built on repression and control. The non-linear storytelling, coupled with the first-person perspective, provides a compelling and disturbing insight into a dystopian future that feels eerily plausible.
We slept in what had once been the gymnasium. The floor was of varnished wood, with stripes and circles painted on it, for the games that were formerly played there; the hoops for the basketball nets ... - #5
'Delicate Condition' by Danielle Valentine follows the story of actress Anna Alcott, who is desperate to conceive a child before time runs out. Throughout the pregnancy, readers can relate to Anna's fears, desires, and struggles as she navigates through doubts and concerns, feeling unheard by doctors and her husband. The plot unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. delves into themes of women's health, pregnancy horror, and the challenges faced by women in society.
- #6
'Elsewhere' by Alexis Schaitkin is a haunting and thought-provoking novel set in a mysterious town where mothers vanish without a trace. The story explores the unique society and rituals of the town, the impact of motherhood on individuals and the community, and the complex relationships between the characters. The writing style is described as lyrical, mesmerizing, and deep, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that keeps readers engaged and intrigued.
The plot of 'Elsewhere' unfolds in a small, idyllic town where the disappearance of mothers is a regular occurrence, shrouded in mystery and tradition. The protagonist, Vera, provides a glimpse into the town's closed-off society, its harsh customs, and the challenges faced by those who question the status quo. As the story progresses, Vera's journey delves into themes of identity, fear of the unknown, and the struggle for acceptance in a society that values conformity above all else.
- #7
The Second Bell by Gabriela Houston is a stunning debut novel based on Slavic folklore, following the story of Salka, a striga born with two hearts. The narrative delves into themes of fear, power, and societal prejudices as Salka navigates her identity and struggles against the constraints imposed by her community. The book is set in a village with complex, conflicted characters and a richly rendered atmosphere that immerses the reader in a world where the characters must confront their inner demons and the external threats they face.
'The Electric Woman: A Memoir in Death-Defying Acts' by Tessa Fontaine is a captivating memoir that intertwines the author's personal journey of joining a traveling sideshow with her mother's struggle after a debilitating stroke. Fontaine courageously immerses herself in the world of fire eating, sword swallowing, and snake wrangling, seeking to conquer her fears and understand her complex relationship with her mother. The narrative alternates between Fontaine's experiences in the sideshow and the emotional turmoil she faces as she grapples with her mother's illness, creating a compelling and poignant story of resilience and self-discovery.
Fontaine's writing style is described as tender, intense, and poignant, seamlessly blending the thrill of sideshow acts with the emotional depth of her family's challenges. The book delves into themes of love, courage, and the transformative power of facing one's fears, offering a unique perspective on femininity, mother-daughter relationships, and the pursuit of personal growth amidst adversity.
“Prepare yourself,” my stepdad, Davy, whispered into my hair when he hugged me outside her hospital room. I’d just arrived from across the country after a night of emergency phone calls. I was not pre...- #9
In "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Bella Andre, the story revolves around Gabe, a hunky firefighter, and Megan, a widowed mother of a young daughter. Despite their initial reservations due to past experiences, they are drawn to each other and begin a passionate romance. The book is described as a steamy contemporary romance with a focus on love, overcoming fears, and forming connections. The plot centers around the challenges faced by Gabe and Megan as they navigate their feelings and the obstacles in their way, ultimately leading to a heartfelt and sensual love story.
Gabe Sullivan was helping an elderly couple down the stairs of an old San Francisco apartment building and out onto the sidewalk when the air was rocked with an explosion of flames and smoke out a sec...
(Also, see 14 recommendations for the series Seattle Sullivans ) - #10
The Possession of Natalie Glasgow by Hailey Piper is a novella that delves into the horror subgenre of possession with a unique twist. The story follows Natalie, an 8-year-old girl who is possessed by an unknown force, exhibiting extreme strength and a hunger for raw meat. As doctors fail to help her, Natalie's mother calls in Margaret, an expert in the supernatural, to save her daughter before it's too late. Set in the 70s, the novella grips readers with its eerie atmosphere and tension-filled narrative, immersing them in a tale of revenge and the battle against a terrifying possession.
The author, Hailey Piper, crafts a narrative that is both engaging and fast-paced, drawing readers into a world where the paranormal meets the supernatural. Through the eyes of Margaret Willow, the witch midwife investigating Natalie's possession, readers experience a fresh take on the traditional possession trope, filled with heart, hope, and a creeping unease that keeps them on the edge of their seats until the offbeat conclusion.