Books Like...

'The Great Alone' by Kristin Hannah is a gripping tale set in the harsh wilderness of Alaska during the 1970s. The story follows the Allbright family as they move to Alaska in an attempt to escape their past traumas. The father, Ernt, a Vietnam War POW, struggles with inner demons which lead to abusive behavior, impacting his wife, Cora, and teenage daughter, Leni. The novel delves into themes of love, survival, resilience, and the dark realities of domestic violence, all set against the backdrop of the unforgiving Alaskan landscape.

Kristin Hannah's writing style in 'The Great Alone' is praised for its vivid descriptions of Alaska, bringing the wilderness to life as a central character in the story. The narrative is emotionally intense, exploring complex relationships and deep-seated family dynamics. The book expertly weaves together themes of love, hardship, abuse, and the unbreakable bonds that tie families together, creating a compelling and thought-provoking read.

"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid follows the intriguing life story of Hollywood legend Evelyn Hugo as she recounts her seven marriages to an unknown writer, Monique. The novel delves into Evelyn's glamorous yet tumultuous journey through Hollywood, filled with scandals, surprises, and unexpected twists. Readers are captivated by Evelyn's unapologetic nature, complex character, and the lessons learned from her unconventional life choices. The writing style is described as beautifully written, engaging, and fast-paced, making it a page-turner that keeps readers hooked till the end.

Educated by Tara Westover is a memoir recounting the author's tumultuous childhood growing up in Idaho in a dysfunctional family. Tara's father, a strict Mormon and anti-government supporter, forbids her from attending school, leading her to work in the family's scrap yard instead. Despite the isolation and abuse she faces at home, Tara eventually breaks free and pursues education, earning scholarships and grants to study at prestigious universities like Cambridge and Harvard. The book delves into themes of familial dysfunction, survivalism, mental illness, and the transformative power of education.

'Daisy Jones & The Six' by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a novel written in an interview format that tells the story of a 70s rock band, reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac. The book delves into the lives of the band members, their rise to fame, struggles with addiction, complex relationships, and the dynamics within the group. The writing style, portrayed through interview transcripts, provides a unique and engaging narrative that captures the essence of the rock 'n' roll era.

A Man Called Ove is a heartwarming story about a grumpy old man, Ove, who is grieving the death of his wife and contemplating suicide. However, his plans are constantly interrupted by new neighbors and various situations that force him to interact with the world around him. The book delves into Ove's past, revealing the reasons behind his grumpiness and showcasing his transformation as he forms unexpected connections with those around him. The writing style is described as charming, sweet, and humorous, with a balance between touching moments and light-hearted humor.

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a memoir that delves into Walls' tumultuous childhood growing up in poverty with two unstable and neglectful parents. Walls details astounding anecdotes of her unconventional upbringing, showcasing a family that lived an offbeat, nonconformist lifestyle. The book portrays the struggles of the author and her siblings as they navigate through a challenging and unusual childhood, fending for themselves and raising each other while their parents prioritize their own desires over responsibilities.

Walls' writing style is described as compelling, emotional, and honest, drawing readers into her story with vivid descriptions and a witty voice. The book offers a window into a world that many readers may never experience, shedding light on themes of resilience, forgiveness, and love in the face of adversity. The narrative unfolds through a series of shocking and heart-wrenching events, leaving readers both saddened and inspired by the author's journey from a difficult past to an uncertain future.

In "Circe" by Madeline Miller, readers are taken on a journey through Greek mythology from the perspective of the enchantress Circe. The book beautifully weaves together mythological cameos, showcasing a transformational arc for Circe as she evolves from a naive nymph to a powerful witch and reluctant mother. Through vivid storytelling, the author reimagines Circe's story, offering a fresh take on a character previously known for turning men into pigs in Homer's Odyssey.

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a historical fiction novel set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. The story follows two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who navigate the challenges of resistance and survival in the face of the Nazi regime. The book delves into the experiences of French civilians, resistance fighters, Jewish individuals, and even German soldiers, providing a compelling and believable portrayal of the time period. Through well-developed characters and a gripping plot, the author weaves a tale of bravery, sacrifice, and the strength of women during wartime.

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller that follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a renowned artist who is found with her dead husband, tied to a chair and shot multiple times in the face. Alicia never speaks again and is sent to a mental institution. Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist, takes a job at the facility to treat Alicia and unravel her secrets. The book is filled with twists and turns, red herrings, and a surprising conclusion, making it a gripping and engaging read.

The novel is centered around the relationship between Alicia, the silent patient, and Theo, the psychotherapist determined to make her speak. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia's case, the story unfolds through entries from Alicia's diary and Theo's own perspective. The plot weaves together themes of mental illness, trauma, and suspense, keeping the readers guessing until the unexpected twist at the end. The Silent Patient explores complex characters and intricate storytelling, making it a compelling and thought-provoking thriller.

'Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine' by Gail Honeyman is a novel that delves into the life of Eleanor Oliphant, a socially isolated and awkward office worker with a traumatic past. The story follows Eleanor as she navigates through her daily routines, forming unexpected friendships, confronting her past, and gradually undergoing a transformation towards self-discovery and healing. The narrative style provides insights into Eleanor's quirky and complex personality, showcasing her struggles, growth, and interactions with those around her.

The book combines elements of humor, poignancy, and personal triumph as it unravels Eleanor's journey towards overcoming her deep sense of loneliness and guilt. Through subtle storytelling and engaging character development, the author paints a vivid picture of Eleanor's life, highlighting the power of small acts of kindness, the importance of human connection, and the themes of resilience and hope that resonate throughout the novel.