Books Like...

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.

'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.

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.

'When I Hit You: Or, A Portrait of the Writer as a Young Wife' by Meena Kandasamy is a raw and honest account of one woman's experience with domestic violence and marital rape. The book is written in a unique style, blending novelized form with poetic narration, creating a thought-provoking and powerful exploration of the protagonist's harrowing journey through an abusive marriage in contemporary India.

The author, through a mix of reflective and urgent storytelling, delves into the complexities of emotional, physical, and sexual violence faced by the protagonist at the hands of her Marxist husband. The narrative not only chronicles the abuse but also highlights the protagonist's resilience, courage, and strength in reclaiming her voice and identity amidst the horrors she endures.

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.

"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.

"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.

Untamed by Anna Cowan is a historical romance novel featuring a male main character who crossdresses in order to sneak away to the heroine's house and cause mischief. The plot involves a slow burn romance with a duke dressing as a woman who escapes to the country at the female main character's side. The book is described as intense and unique, with a convoluted male main character who pretends to be a woman for various reasons. The story also delves into themes of gender norms and features a sturdy farmer-type heroine.

"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.

'Painted Faces' by L.H. Cosway is a contemporary romance novel set in Dublin that follows the unconventional love story between Freda, a witty and sassy Dublin girl, and Nicholas, a flamboyant drag performer. The book explores themes of self-acceptance, unconventional relationships, and overcoming stereotypes. The writing style is described as fluid, balanced between light and dark tones, and vividly descriptive, bringing the characters and setting to life.