Books matching: toxic friendships
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:Cat's Eye by Margaret Atwood is a haunting exploration of the impact of childhood traumas on adult life, particularly focusing on the themes of bullying, friendship, and self-discovery. The narrative follows the protagonist, Elaine Risley, a middle-aged artist, as she revisits her hometown of Toronto for an art exhibition, prompting a flood of memories from her past. Through vivid and disturbing flashbacks, the book delves into the complexities of girlhood friendships, the lasting effects of childhood experiences, and the struggle for identity and self-acceptance. Atwood's writing style intricately weaves together past and present, creating a poignant and thought-provoking reflection on the darker aspects of human nature and memory.
Elaine's journey of self-reflection and reconciliation with her past unfolds through rich character development, evocative storytelling, and poignant observations on the cruelty of children and the complexities of relationships. Atwood masterfully captures the nuances of Elaine's emotional turmoil, childhood traumas, and artistic expression, offering a profound exploration of themes such as feminism, identity, and the lasting impact of early experiences. The narrative skillfully navigates between past and present, painting a vivid portrait of a woman grappling with the shadows of her past while seeking understanding, closure, and redemption.
Cordelia and I are riding on the streetcar, going downtown, as we do on winter Saturdays. The streetcar is muggy with twice-breathed air and the smell of wool. Cordelia sits with nonchalance, nudging ... - #2
Save:In "Social Creature" by Tara Isabella Burton, the story revolves around Louise, a struggling young woman in New York City who becomes entangled in the glamorous and hedonistic world of Lavinia, a wealthy and daring socialite. As Louise is drawn into Lavinia's extravagant lifestyle filled with parties, drugs, and social media, their toxic friendship takes unexpected turns. The narrative explores themes of envy, deception, and the darker side of social media influence, leading to a shocking and unpredictable conclusion. Burton's writing style captures the essence of the characters and their actions, drawing readers into a world of privilege and manipulation.
“Anyway, the second I saw it—Christ! I wanted to—oh, I just wanted to genuflect, you know? Kiss the ground—do Catholics kiss the ground, or is that just sailors? Anyway, I wanted to put my mouth right... - #3
Save:'Afterparty' by Ann Redisch Stampler revolves around the toxic friendship between two main characters, Emma and Siobhan. Emma, the good girl, and Siobhan, the bad influence, make a pact that eventually leads to betrayal and tragedy. The story delves into themes of peer pressure, drug and alcohol use, and the impact of toxic relationships on teenagers. The plot unfolds as Emma navigates through the complexities of friendship, identity, and teenage drama, culminating in a dramatic revelation that changes both her and Siobhan's lives.
The writing style of 'Afterparty' is described as engaging and compelling by readers, with a dark, psychological vein running through the narrative. The author, Ann Redisch Stampler, skillfully portrays the dynamics of teenage relationships and the struggles of finding one's identity. is set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, showcasing both its glamorous and gritty aspects, making it a captivating read for both teens and adults.
THE BEACH CLUB WHERE WE land our first day in L.A. is all white and sun-bleached, with striped awnings and a platoon of valet parking guys in shorts and starched safari shirts, like privates in the ta... - #4
Save:'The Best Lies' by Sarah Lyu is a psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of obsessive friendships and the lengths individuals will go to in order to protect those they love. The narrative unfolds through alternating timelines, switching between present day and the past, as it unravels the events leading up to a tragic incident. The story is characterized by a fast-paced plot, intricate character development, and a writing style that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, exploring themes of obsession, love, revenge, and toxic relationships.
You never think, This is the last time I’ll ever see his smile, shy and full of secrets meant only for me, the last time I’ll ever hold his hand or kiss his face or lose myself in the warmth of his br... - #5
Save:Summer Sisters by Judy Blume follows the story of two childhood friends, Caitlin and Victoria, as they navigate the complexities of their friendship from adolescence into adulthood. The plot delves into their summers spent at Martha's Vineyard, exploring themes of privilege, friendship, love, and family dynamics. The writing style is described as nostalgic, with a focus on character development and realistic portrayals of relationships and coming-of-age experiences.
Her mother, who was bathing her youngest brother, Nathan, looked at her as if she were nuts. Nathan had muscular dystrophy. His body was small and misshapen. They had a contraption that allowed him to... - #6
Save:'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt is a suspenseful novel set in an exclusive university where a Classics study group decides to commit murder, reminiscent of Eleusinian mysteries. The story follows a group of eccentric and privileged college students who get entangled in a web of their own making, leading to chilling events and profound changes in their lives. The writing style is erudite, literary, and intriguing, with a focus on character development and relationships, creating an evocative and convincing setting.
Does such a thing as 'the fatal flaw,' that showy dark crack running down the middle of a life, exist outside literature? I used to think it didn't. Now I think it does. And I think that mine is this:... - #7
Save:Bad Habits by Amy Gentry is a thriller set in the world of academia, where two grad students, Mac and Claire, find themselves entangled in the marriage of two professors. The story delves into toxic friendships, intellectual property, and the dark secrets hidden within The Program, a post-grad program that manipulates its students. The narrative is filled with unexpected twists, flashbacks, and complex characters, leading to a climax that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
- #8
Save:"My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante is a captivating novel that follows the friendship between two intelligent girls, Elena and Lila, as they navigate the impoverished and violent setting of mid-twentieth century Naples. The story delves into their diverging paths in life, detailing Elena's academic pursuits and Lila's struggles with family obligations and early marriage. Through rich period details and intricate character development, the book explores themes of friendship, rivalry, societal expectations, and the complexities of growing up in a challenging environment.
Elena Ferrante's writing style in "My Brilliant Friend" is praised for its ability to vividly capture the essence of childhood and adolescence, blending detailed descriptions with insightful reflections on life. The narrative, told from Elena's perspective, offers a child's view of the world while weaving in deeper themes of friendship, societal norms, and personal growth. The book sets the stage for a compelling quartet that delves into the evolving relationship between Elena and Lila against the backdrop of post-war Italy.
Lila appeared in my life in first grade and immediately impressed me because she was very bad. In that class we were all a little bad, but only when the teacher, Maestra Oliviero, couldn’t see us. Lil... - #9
Save:'Goodbye Tsugumi' by Banana Yoshimoto is a novel that delves into the complexities of a toxic friendship between two cousins, Marie and Tsugumi, set in a quaint seaside town. The book beautifully captures the feelings of nostalgia, love, and displacement through the eyes of the characters. The writing style is described as calm, simple, and sensitively written, with an emphasis on natural perceptions and the transitory nature of relationships.
Leaving behind the town of my childhood, the quiet cycles of fishery and tourism that keep it running, I came to study at a certain university here in Tokyo. Now I’m having loads of fun, living in the... - #10
Save:Stargazer by Laurie Petrou is a dark literary thriller set in the 90s, exploring the complicated friendship between two privileged young women, Diana and Aurelle. After a tragic accident, they become inseparable but soon their bond turns toxic, leading them down a dangerous path. The novel is filled with tension as it delves into themes of envy, obsession, and the struggles of youth. Readers are drawn into the characters' lives through vivid writing and an atmospheric setting that captures the essence of campus life and the rave culture of the era.
Petrou's writing is compelling, weaving together character development and a haunting narrative style. The story is fast-paced, making it hard to put down, and it engages readers with its exploration of psychological depth and the addictive nature of the protagonists' relationship. While some elements of the narrative may feel rushed or less developed, the portrayal of the complexities of friendship, privilege, and the dark sides of human nature keeps readers engrossed until the very end. Stargazer is sure to leave a lasting impression as it confronts the unsettling realities behind seemingly glamorous lives.
