Books matching: middle aged woman protagonist
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- #1
Fair Peril by Nancy Connor Springer is a whimsical and imaginative fantasy novel that follows the story of Buffy Murphy, a divorced and overweight woman who stumbles upon a talking frog claiming to be a prince. As Buffy's teenage daughter, Emily, gets involved in the magical world of Fair Peril, Buffy embarks on a quest to rescue her daughter and navigate through a realm filled with fairy tales and archetypical roles. The book blends elements of modern-day life with fantastical adventures, creating a unique narrative that explores themes of self-realization and the power of storytelling.
The writing style of Fair Peril is described as a delightful mix of humor, creativity, and poignant moments. The author weaves a tale that is both riotously funny and sweetly touching, offering readers a fun and wonderful fantasy experience set in a modern-day setting where anything can happen, including portals to Fairyland within a shopping mall.
“Once upon a time there was a middle-aged woman,” Buffy Murphy declaimed to the trees, “whose slime-loving, shigella-kissing bung hole of a husband dumped her the month after their twentieth wedding a... 'All Fun and Games Until Somebody Loses an Eye' by Christopher Brookmyre follows the story of a 46-year-old grandmother who joins an elite mercenary squad to rescue her kidnapped son. The plot is a mix of humor, action, and character development, with some readers finding the idea of a grandmother training to be part of a crack mercenary squad in a short amount of time a bit implausible. The writing style includes strong characterization, decent satire, and a blend of different genres like tartan noir, techno thriller, and rom-com.
Bett got up and walked to the window again, having grown too restless for his chair to contain him. He prowled, a latent aggressive energy about him, like a static charge that would shock you if you g...- #3
"Revenge of the Middle-Aged Woman" by Elizabeth Buchan follows the story of Rose, a book review editor in London, who is shocked when her husband leaves her for a younger woman who also happens to be Rose's assistant. As Rose navigates through the emotional aftermath of losing both her husband and her job, she begins to rebuild her life with the support of her friends, children, and a rediscovered old flame. touches on themes of betrayal, loss, reinvention, and the complexities of relationships, all set against a backdrop of British vernacular and humor.
Despite the title suggesting a tale of revenge, the book focuses more on Rose's journey towards self-discovery and resilience in the face of unexpected upheavals. The story delves into the emotional turmoil Rose experiences, her relationships with her family and friends, and her gradual realization that life still offers possibilities even after significant setbacks.
“Here,” said Minty, my deputy, with one of her breathy laughs, “the review has just come in. It’s hilariously vindictive.” She pushed toward me a book entitled A Thousand Olive Trees by Hal Thorne wit... - #4
In "Matrix" by Lauren Groff, readers are transported to the 12th century, where the protagonist Marie navigates a world of power struggles, religious conflicts, and societal expectations. As a product of rape and a homely young woman, Marie finds herself in a run-down abbey in England, where she rises to become the prioress. Through intricate details of monastic life and the strength of women like Marie and Eleanor, the author paints a vivid picture of a feminist novel, showcasing the defiance and resilience of women in a male-dominated society. With themes of power, spirituality, and female autonomy, "Matrix" weaves a tale of transformation, growth, and the complexities of leadership within the confines of a medieval convent.
Groff's writing style in "Matrix" is praised for its poetic smoothness and meticulous attention to detail, creating a rich tapestry of characters and settings. The novel delves into Marie's journey as she builds a women's utopia guided by her visions of the Virgin Mary, challenging societal norms and forging her path as a powerful abbess. Through Marie's evolution from a novice to a formidable leader, readers are taken on a captivating exploration of female empowerment, resilience, and the pursuit of a different world within the walls of the abbey.
It is 1158 and the world bears the weariness of late Lent. Soon it will be Easter, which arrives early this year. In the fields, the seeds uncurl in the dark cold soil, ready to punch into the freer a... - #5
The Sword of Kaigen is a standalone fantasy novel that tells the story of the Matsuda family, particularly focusing on Misaki and her son Mamoru. Set in a Japanese-inspired fantasy world, the book explores themes of family dynamics, coping with tragedy, and embracing one's true self. The plot revolves around the family's struggles in a remote village where they train to become powerful warriors with unique magical abilities, facing challenges that test their beliefs and relationships.
It was a harrowing climb to the high school. Eight hundred twenty-one steps. Mamoru had counted one time on his way up—no easy feat while focusing on not toppling off the side of a mountain. For most ... - #6
Recursion by Blake Crouch is a fast-paced science fiction thriller that delves into the concept of False Memory Syndrome, where people recall alternate events and lives they never lived. The story follows NYPD officer Barry Sutton and neuroscientist Helena Smith as they investigate and try to solve the mysterious syndrome. As their paths intertwine, they discover the implications of altering memories and the consequences it has on a personal and global scale. The writing style is described as mind-bending, thought-provoking, and emotionally moving, with a plot that explores the complexities of time travel and memory manipulation.
Barry Sutton pulls over into the fire lane at the main entrance of the Poe Building, an Art Deco tower glowing white in the illumination of its exterior sconces. He climbs out of his Crown Vic, rushes... - #7
Set in the same world as The Clocktaur War, "Swordheart" follows the story of Halla, a widow who unexpectedly inherits a magical sword that contains the spirit of a guardian. Forced into a predicament where she must choose between marrying her cousin or claim her inheritance, Halla embarks on a journey with Sarkis, the enchanted swordsman, leading to a series of shenanigans, banter, and unexpected romance. The book offers a blend of fantasy, romance, and humor, with quirky details and strong-willed characters navigating through a world filled with adventure and self-discovery.
The narrative unfolds as Halla and Sarkis encounter various challenges, including bandits, priests, and unexpected allies, all while trying to secure Halla's rightful inheritance and freedom. The story intricately weaves elements of magic, societal norms, and personal growth, presenting a delightful combination of fantasy and reality, where the protagonists surprise each other, support one another, and embark on a road trip filled with hope, humor, and a touch of horror.
This was not a normal response to inheriting wealth. She was aware of that. Unfortunately, she didn’t seem to have many other options. She had been locked in her room for three days and the odds of es... - #8
"The Days of Abandonment" by Elena Ferrante is a raw and unflinching novel about a woman named Olga whose husband abruptly leaves her for a younger woman, plunging her into a chaotic world of madness and despair. The book vividly portrays Olga's emotional breakdown, her struggle to cope with the sudden abandonment, and her journey towards self-reinvention amidst the turmoil of her shattered family life. Ferrante's writing style is intense and graphic, delving deep into the disturbed mind of the protagonist as she grapples with anger, self-doubt, and the challenges of single-handedly caring for her children.
One April afternoon, right after lunch, my husband announced that he wanted to leave me. He did it while we were clearing the table; the children were quarreling as usual in the next room, the dog was... - #9
In "Remnant Population" by Elizabeth Moon, the story follows Ofelia, an elderly woman who decides to stay behind when the colony is evacuated from a newly settled planet. Living alone, she enjoys her solitude until she discovers the existence of indigenous life forms on the planet. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, independence, and first contact as Ofelia navigates this new and unexpected situation. The writing style is praised for its character-driven narrative, focusing on Ofelia's journey and her interactions with the alien species.
Between her toes the damp earth felt cool, but already sweat crept between the roots of her hair. It would be hotter today than yesterday, and by noon the lovely spice-scented red flowers of the dayvi... - #10
'The Crying of Lot 49' by Thomas Pynchon is a short yet complex novel that delves into the world of conspiracy theories and underground societies. The story follows Oedipa, who becomes entangled in a mysterious web of secrets and subversive postal systems after being named the executor of her ex-husband's will. The writing style is described as dense and intricate, with eccentric characters and a plot that keeps the reader guessing until the end, leaving them feeling both intrigued and confused.
The book is praised for its fast-paced and witty narrative, offering a unique blend of humor, satire, and mystery within its concise 160 pages. Readers find the novel to be a good introduction to Pynchon's oeuvre, showcasing his ability to create a labyrinthine and addictive story that captures the essence of 1960s America. Despite its short length, 'The Crying of Lot 49' is commended for its ability to engage readers with its unconventional storytelling and thought-provoking themes.
One summer afternoon Mrs Oedipa Maas came home from a Tupper-ware party whose hostess had put perhaps too much kirsch in the fondue to find that she, Oedipa, had been named executor, or she supposed e...