Books matching: personal turmoil
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- #1
'The Complete Poems' by Anne Sexton is a collection of raw and provocative poetry that delves into deep topics such as mental health, trauma, and societal norms. The writing style is described as confessional, personal, and often grim, similar to Sylvia Plath's poetry. Sexton's work is praised for its ability to express inner turmoil and push the boundaries of traditional poetry, making readers think and feel deeply. offers a unique voice that is both readable and impactful, resonating with themes of solitude, realization, and the human condition.
- #2
The Tourist by Olen Steinhauer is a spy thriller following the life of CIA agent Milo Weaver, also known as a Tourist. The book is filled with espionage, deception, murder, and betrayal, as Weaver navigates through a complex web of setups and lies. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers on edge with sudden deaths, betrayals, and unexpected revelations. Steinhauer's writing style is described as intricate and engaging, with a fast-paced narrative that delves deep into the world of international intelligence officers.
The Tiger. It was the kind of moniker that worked well in Southeast Asia, or India, which was why the Company long assumed the assassin was Asian. Only after 2003, when those few photos trickled in an... - #3
In 'Velocity' by Dean Koontz, the protagonist Billy Wiles, a bartender, finds himself in a terrifying situation when he starts receiving cryptic notes from a killer, forcing him to make life-and-death decisions. The book is a fast-paced thriller with elements of horror and suspense, as Billy races against time to unravel the mystery and save himself and his loved ones from danger. The story delves into themes of choice, morality, and the consequences of one's actions, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the surprising revelations at the end.
The plot of 'Velocity' revolves around Billy's struggle to navigate a twisted game orchestrated by a psychopathic killer, where he must decide between two horrifying outcomes. The narrative unfolds with gripping intensity, exploring the complexities of human nature and the darkness that lies within. Dean Koontz weaves a tale that challenges the reader to ponder moral dilemmas and the limits of compassion, making 'Velocity' a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Although he had a head reminiscent of a squash ball and the heavy rounded shoulders of a sumo wrestler, Ned was an athletic man only if you thought barroom jabber and grudge-holding qualified as sport... - #4
White Tears by Hari Kunzru is a haunting and thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of cultural appropriation, race, obsession, and the lingering effects of historical injustices. The story follows two music enthusiasts who fabricate a blues song from the 1920s, leading them down a dark path of revenge, ghostly encounters, and unsettling revelations about the exploitation of Black music and artists. Kunzru's writing style blends elements of horror, history, and social commentary to create a narrative that is both eerie and compelling, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about America's past and present.
THAT SUMMER I WOULD RIDE MY BIKE over the bridge, lock it up in front of one of the bars on Orchard Street and drift through the city on foot, recording. People and places. Sidewalk smokers, lovers’ q... - #5
'Belle du Seigneur' by Albert Cohen is a complex exploration of love, delving into the doomed relationship between the protagonists Solal and Ariane. The narrative touches upon themes of spiritual awareness, artistic expression, and the all-encompassing nature of true love. Through a stream of consciousness writing style, Cohen portrays a whirligig of pastiches, styles, and misanthropy, leading readers on a descent into the intricate yet self-defeating world of the protagonists' love affair.
Cohen's novel presents a satirical take on the bourgeoisie society, blending elements of comedy and satire with profound insights into the precarious nature of romantic relationships. is a long and astonishing tour de force that combines moments of hilarity with poignant reflections on love, obsession, and the complexities of human emotions.
- #6
'The Monsters of Templeton' by Lauren Groff is a multi-layered novel that follows the journey of Willie Upton as she returns to her small hometown of Templeton under shameful circumstances. Upon her return, she embarks on a family history research project to uncover the identity of her father, delving into the sordid and complicated past of her ancestors who have lived in the same town for generations. The book weaves together elements of romance, mystery, supernatural occurrences, and historical fiction, creating a complex but connected tale of a town and its inhabitants. Through multiple narratives, the author explores themes of family, friendship, and the impact of one's roots on personal identity.
Lauren Groff's writing style in 'The Monsters of Templeton' is praised for its beauty, imagery, and ability to captivate readers. The book features multiple points of view, time periods, and genres, blending elements of contemporary stories, historical fiction, and mystery. The author skillfully constructs a narrative that intertwines the past with the present, creating a compelling story that keeps readers engaged with its unique storytelling approach.
As I sat there, stunned, watching the distant sunrise rub the dark from the sky, I felt almost as if Sarah's Templeton were layered atop my own; as if a sheet of tracing paper had settled upon the roo... - #7
Ghost Lights by Lydia Millet is a novel that follows Hal Lindley, an IRS agent who embarks on a journey to Belize to search for his wife's boss, T., who has gone missing in the Central American rainforest. The book delves into themes of existential crisis, infidelity, loss, and human dissolution, all while exploring the complex relationships between the characters. Millet's writing style is characterized by elegant prose, believable dialogue, and dark humor, creating a narrative that keeps readers engaged and intrigued.
The walls were kittens and puppies. Like other pet facilities he had seen—even the Humane Society, where he had taken Casey when she was six to pick out a kitten—the kennel trafficked in a brand of cu... - #8
'This Charming Man' by Marian Keyes is a novel that delves into the lives of four women who have been impacted by the charming yet ruthless politician, Paddy de Courcy. The story revolves around themes of domestic abuse, alcoholism, and the consequences of toxic relationships, all narrated from the perspectives of these four women. The writing style includes different typefaces to distinguish between the narrators, with one voice using a unique, increasingly curtailed style that adds depth to the storytelling.
The book is a mix of light-hearted chick lit fiction with a dark element, a signature style of Marian Keyes. Despite dealing with heavy topics, the author manages to infuse humor and warmth into the narrative, creating a story that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The characters are vibrant and well-developed, with each woman's story adding layers to the overall plot, making it a compelling read that blends humor with serious themes.
The worst day of my life. When the first wave of shock released me from its fiendish grip, I couldn’t help but notice that Paddy hadn’t called me. Ominous. I was his girlfriend, the media was going wi... - #9
'The Sportswriter' by Richard Ford follows the protagonist Frank Bascombe over the course of an Easter weekend, as he navigates his recent divorce, the anniversary of his son's death, and a mid-life crisis. The narrative is reflective and ponderous, exploring Frank's internal struggles and emotional detachment as he interacts with various characters in his life. Ford's writing style is described as intelligent yet unpretentious, with a focus on character development and internal monologues rather than a fast-paced plot.
For the past fourteen years I have lived here at 19 Hoving Road, Haddam, New Jersey, in a large Tudor house bought when a book of short stories I wrote sold to a movie producer for a lot of money, and... I Might Regret This: Essays, Drawings, Vulnerabilities, and Other Stuff by Abbi Jacobson is a captivating and heartwarming journey through the author's self-discovery and personal reflections. The narrative follows Abbi on a road trip following a breakup, delivering the story in an engaging and relatable manner. Jacobson's candid and humorous writing style invites readers into her world as she embarks on a solo road trip, leaving behind the familiar and venturing into the unknown. The book seamlessly blends humor with moments of vulnerability, creating a connection with readers who find solace in the shared experiences and reflections of the author.
I had been out in Los Angeles for a few weeks, compiling the writers’ room for Broad City and gearing up to start Season 1. I sublet my apartment in Greenwich Village to a friend of a friend while I w...