Books Like...
'Last Chance Saloon' by Marian Keyes revolves around three childhood friends from Ireland, Tara, Katherine, and Fintan, who are now in their thirties and living in London. The novel is character-driven, focusing on the ups and downs of their lives, friendships, and relationships. The story unfolds as Fintan's illness prompts the friends to reevaluate their lives and make drastic changes, challenging them to live as if they only have six months left.
The book is a mix of humor, friendship, and personal growth, with relatable characters facing real-life situations. The plot follows the intertwined lives of Tara, Katherine, and Fintan, as they navigate love, struggles, and unexpected challenges, ultimately coming together to support each other through difficult times.
If you liked Last Chance Saloon, here are the top 57 books to read next:
- #1
"Rachel's Holiday" by Marian Keyes follows the story of Rachel Walsh, a young woman living in New York who is struggling with drug addiction. After a life-altering event, she is sent back to Ireland by her family to a rehab center, expecting it to be more of a vacation than a treatment. Throughout the book, readers witness Rachel's journey through denial, self-discovery, and acceptance of her addiction. The writing style combines humor and seriousness, delving into Rachel's inner struggles and the challenges she faces during her rehabilitation process.
The book offers a unique perspective on addiction, blending humor with poignant moments as Rachel navigates her way through rehab and confronts her past. The plot unfolds with flashbacks to Rachel's life in New York and her experiences in the rehab center, revealing her vulnerabilities and growth throughout the story. Marian Keyes weaves a compelling narrative that explores themes of addiction, self-awareness, and personal transformation in a thought-provoking and engaging manner.
I couldn’t keep it up for long because I hated upsetting Margaret. Even though she was weird and saved money and hadn’t had sex until she got married, I was still very fond of her. So by the time I go... - #2
The Brightest Star in the Sky by Marian Keyes is a novel that revolves around the lives of the residents of 66 Star Street in Dublin. The story is narrated by a spirit that observes the tenants living in the apartment house, providing glimpses into their lives and interactions. The book delves into deeper themes beyond the initial lightheartedness, with characters that are described as deeply flawed and realistic, adding substance to the typical Chick Lit genre. While some readers found the supernatural aspect intriguing, others felt that the ending was a bit unnatural and contrived.
June the first, a bright summer’s evening, a Monday. I’ve been flying over the streets and houses of Dublin and now, finally, I’m here. I enter through the roof. Via a skylight I slide into a living r... - #3
The book "Sushi for Beginners" by Marian Keyes follows the lives of three women - Lisa, Ashling, and Clodagh - as they navigate through personal challenges and relationships in Dublin, Ireland. Lisa, a magazine editor, is sent to start a new women's magazine in Ireland, a move she sees as a demotion. Ashling, her assistant editor, is mousy and constantly worrying, while Clodagh is a beautiful but unsatisfied housewife married to Ashling's former boyfriend. The novel explores their interconnected lives and the events that unravel and piece them back together, offering a mix of fun, sadness, and triumph.
Her colleagues barely looked up. People slamming phones down, then shouting, were ten a penny in the magazine game. Besides, they were trapped in Deadline Hell – if they didn’t get this month’s issue ... - #4
The book 'Jemima J' by Jane Green follows the transformation of Jemima, an overweight woman who becomes obsessed with losing weight after being introduced to the internet. The story explores her journey of self-discovery, love, and friendship, as she navigates through societal expectations and personal insecurities. The plot is filled with twists and turns, portraying themes of body image, romance, and personal growth. The writing style alternates between first and third person narratives, providing different perspectives on the characters and their emotions, adding depth to the storyline.
I wish I were thin, gorgeous, and could get any man I want. You probably think I’m crazy, I mean here I am, sitting at work on my own with a massive double-decker club sandwich in front of me, but I’m... - #5
'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... - #6
The book "Grown Ups" by Marian Keyes revolves around the Casey family, comprising three brothers, their wives, and children. Initially portrayed as a glamorous and happy family, tensions start to surface when a careless remark by Ed's wife, Cara, leads to the unraveling of long-held secrets. The story delves into complex family dynamics, with multiple characters navigating personal weaknesses, relationships, and the need to mature. The plot is structured in a way that provides a rounded understanding of each adult character, leading to a cataclysmic event that forces them to confront the need to grow up.
The narrative style of "Grown Ups" is engaging and well-managed, with a good balance of humor and intrigue. The story starts at a pivotal moment, gradually revealing the background and interconnected lives of the characters. Through a mix of humor and drama, Marian Keyes skillfully depicts the richness and complexity of family life, portraying both the strengths and flaws of each character. Despite some challenges in keeping track of the numerous characters, the book offers a light-hearted yet engrossing exploration of family relationships and secrets.
Flanked by Vihaan, Cara took her position, facing the front door, in the flower-filled lobby. She summoned her warmest smile and stepped forward. ‘Welcome back to the Ardglass, Mr Fay.’ Her welcome wa... - #7
An enchanting, heartwarming anthology of sixteen short stories about family, friendship, and love features contributions from such popular Irish women authors as Maeve Binchy, Marian Keyes, Cathy Kelly, Colette Caddle, Morag Prunty, Julie Parsons, Jo
... - #8
'Girls Night' by Stef Ann Holm is a heartwarming romance novel that follows the story of Jillene, a widow struggling to make ends meet while raising her two daughters in a small town. When famous true crime writer Vince returns to his hometown to confront his own demons, he crosses paths with Jillene, sparking a connection that offers them both a chance at love amidst the challenges they face. The book beautifully captures the essence of small town life, intricate relationships, and the complexities of falling in love with all its fears and uncertainties.
The plot of 'Girls Night' is a blend of romance, mystery, and family dynamics, with well-developed characters that bring depth and authenticity to the story. The writing style is engaging, with a gentle humor and a realistic portrayal of ambivalent feelings and complex emotions that add layers to the characters' journey towards finding happiness and healing.
- #9
The Mystery of Mercy Close by Marian Keyes follows the story of Helen Walsh, a private investigator hired to find a missing boy band member. The book delves into themes of depression, relationships, and family dynamics, all wrapped in a light mystery plot. Readers praised the well-developed characters, sarcastic humor, and the author's skill in blending serious issues with comedic elements.
I was thinking about food. Stuck in traffic, it’s what I do. What any normal person does, of course, but now that I thought about it, I hadn’t had anything to eat since seven o’clock this morning, abo...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Walsh Family ) - #10
Watermelon follows the story of Clare, who faces a devastating separation from her husband just hours after giving birth. Returning to Dublin to be with her family, Clare navigates through the challenges of betrayal, relationships, and family dynamics. Written in a humorous and witty style, the book delves into Clare's journey of self-discovery and empowerment amidst heartbreak and struggles.
February the fifteenth is a very special day for me. It is the day I gave birth to my first child. It is also the day my husband left me. As he was present at the birth I can only assume the two event...
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