Books matching: relationship complexities
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Burnt Sugar' by Avni Doshi follows the tumultuous mother-daughter relationship between Antara and her mother, Tara. As Tara's dementia progresses, Antara is faced with caring for a mother who never seemed to care for her. The novel delves into their complicated history, from Tara's rebellious past to Antara's struggles with her own identity and mother's neglect. The story is a poignant exploration of toxic family dynamics, memory, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma.
The narrative in 'Burnt Sugar' alternates between past and present, showcasing Antara's journey of coming to terms with her mother's deteriorating condition while reflecting on their shared past filled with abandonment, abuse, and emotional turmoil. Avni Doshi's writing style is described as sharp, caustic, and elegantly crafted, unraveling the intricate layers of the mother-daughter relationship with unflinching honesty and complexity.
I suffered at her hands as a child, and any pain she subsequently endured appeared to me to be a kind of redemption – a rebalancing of the universe, where the rational order of cause and effect aligne... - #2
Save:Surrender the Pink by Carrie Fisher is a humorous and poignant exploration of relationships, focusing on the main character Dinah and her journey through love, self-discovery, and personal growth. The book delves into themes of introspection, coping with life's challenges, and the complexities of male-female relationships. Fisher's writing style is characterized by witty observations, sharp humor, and engaging storytelling that keeps readers entertained while also touching on deeper emotional aspects of human connections.
- #3
Save:Amy and Isabelle is a poignant and evocative novel that delves into the complex relationship between a mother and her teenage daughter. The story unfolds in a small New England town, where the characters navigate through lives filled with quiet agonies, disappointments, and miscommunications. Through vivid prose and atmospheric setting, Elizabeth Strout captures universal moments of human experience, portraying the struggles and yearnings of the characters as they grapple with their imperfect lives. The narrative skillfully weaves together themes of mother-daughter dynamics, coming-of-age struggles, and the impact of past traumas on present relationships, drawing readers into a world of emotional depth and introspection.
Strout's writing style is characterized by its eloquence, humor, and sensuality, offering a nuanced portrayal of the characters' inner worlds and interpersonal dynamics. The author's ability to craft complex and relatable characters, from the rebellious teenager Amy to the conflicted single mother Isabelle, showcases her talent for creating authentic and multifaceted portrayals. As the story unfolds slowly, like a flower opening petal by petal, readers are immersed in a narrative that explores the intricacies of human relationships, the resilience of women in the face of adversity, and the power of forgiveness and redemption.
IT WAS TERRIBLY hot that summer Mr. Robertson left town, and for a long while the river seemed dead. Just a dead brown snake of a thing lying flat through the center of town, dirty yellow foam collect... - #4
Save:"Petals on the Wind" is a continuation of the Dollanganger series by Virginia Andrews. The story follows Catherine, who survived terrible abuse in her childhood and is now struggling to break free from the cycle of abuse. The plot delves into Catherine's journey from a child to a grown woman finding her way in the world, facing challenges and seeking revenge against those who wronged her. The writing style is described as challenging and emotive, portraying the characters' struggles and haunted past.
exuberantly alive we should have felt to be freed, at last, from such a grim, lonely and stifling place. How pitifully delighted we should have been to be riding on a bus that rumbled slowly southward...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dollanganger ) - #5
Save:Entice by Ava Harrison is a captivating age gap romance novel that delves into the complex relationship between River Reed and Grayson Price. The story unfolds as River, a young woman about to turn 21, finds herself drawn to Grayson, a man 15 years her senior and her father's childhood friend. As their connection deepens, both characters are portrayed as multi-dimensional individuals with their own baggage and obstacles to overcome. The narrative beautifully explores themes of growth, acceptance, and letting go, while showcasing the characters' journey towards healing and finding love.
Ava Harrison's writing style in Entice has been praised for its ability to capture readers' attention and keep them engaged throughout the story. The book is described as a page-turner with well-developed, relatable characters that experience unexpected twists and turns. The author expertly weaves together a tale of forbidden romance, age gap dynamics, and overcoming fears, creating a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.
'Ada, or Ardor: A Family Chronicle' by Vladimir Nabokov is a complex and challenging novel that delves into the intricacies of an incestuous relationship between siblings Ada and Van Veen. Set in a fictitious world reminiscent of Earth but with historical differences, the story follows the lifelong love affair between Ada and Van, who initially believe they are cousins. The narrative is filled with multilingual wordplay, literary references, and intricate storytelling that explores themes of taboo relationships, complex family dynamics, and the blurred boundaries of love and desire. Despite its challenging nature, the book offers a unique and surreal reading experience that blends lyrical prose with philosophical musings.
“All happy families are more or less dissimilar; all unhappy ones are more or less alike,” says a great Russian writer in the beginning of a famous novel (Anna Arkadievitch Karenina, transfigured into...- #7
Save:'Gold Digger' by Aleksandr Voinov is a contemporary romance novel that delves into the complex relationships and feelings of its characters. The plot revolves around Nikolai, the son of Vadim SF and Henri LeBeau, the nephew of the CEO of LeBeau Mining. The book is praised for its well-written storyline, character development, and intelligent musings on family, sexuality, and success. The author's writing style is described as profound, with the ability to create deep emotional connections between the characters, making them genuinely likable and relatable.
“Just a moment, Nik,” Tamás said, holding him back by the shoulder before he could leave the restroom to face the high-powered corporate meeting ahead. Nikolai turned and lifted his hands in capitulat... - #8
Save:Readers of 'Rhyme & Reason' by Nia Forrester praise the book for its engaging plot, multifaceted characters, and emotional depth. The story follows the complex relationship between Deuce and Zora, delving into themes of love, loss, culture, and identity. The author's writing style is commended for its realism, beautiful prose, and ability to evoke a wide range of emotions in the readers. The book intricately weaves together various storylines, relationships, and character dynamics, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers immersed in the world of the characters.
- #9
Save:'Box Hill' by Adam Mars-Jones is a novella that delves into the complex relationship between two men, Colin and Ray, starting in 1975 in England. Colin, on his 18th birthday, stumbles upon Ray at Box Hill, sparking an intense connection that leads to a tumultuous and unconventional affair. The story explores themes of self-discovery, dominance and submission, and the impact of societal taboos on their relationship. The writing style is described as beautiful, provocative, and intelligent, with a focus on the minutiae of life and the emotional journey of the characters.
- #10
Save:The Dog by Joseph O'Neill is a novel that follows the internal narrative of an unnamed protagonist who works as a lawyer in Dubai for a wealthy family. The plot delves into the protagonist's complicated relationships, including a mysterious disappearance of a friend, his strange work arrangements, and his struggles with moral dilemmas. The writing style is characterized by long, intricate narratives, detailed observations, and a mix of humor and morose tones, providing a unique insight into expat life in Dubai.
PERHAPS BECAUSE OF MY GROWING SENSE of the inefficiency of life lived on land and in air, of my growing sense that the accumulation of experience amounts, when all is said and done and pondered, simpl...
