Books matching: small canadian town
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- #1
Save:Equal parts cozy, spicy, and heartwarming - perfect for fans of found-family, banter, and grumpy/sunshine dynamics. Suspend disbelief around some plot elements for a thoroughly enjoyable romance ride!
"Wild Side" by Elsie Silver is an engaging romance that follows Tabitha Garrison, a spirited chef who unexpectedly becomes the guardian of her young nephew, Milo, after her sister's death. The plot thickens when she confronts Rhys Dupri, her sister's gruff landlord, as they navigate the unexpected guardianship battle initiated by an old will. The story delves into their complicated relationship, filled with tension, humor, and heartfelt emotion, culminating in a marriage of convenience that serves both their interests.
Silver's writing style is warm and cozy, skillfully blending humor with poignant emotion. Readers are treated to clever banter and palpable chemistry between Tabitha and Rhys, alongside a diverse and supportive friend group. The narrative is immersive, making you feel the characters' struggles and growth, as well as the sweetness of found family. Fans of the series appreciate the interconnectedness of the books, making each reading experience rich and fulfilling.
- #2
Save:A Jest of God is a deeply compassionate and subtly powerful portrait of a woman's quiet awakening - perfect for readers who cherish beautifully observed, character-driven fiction.
A Jest of God by Margaret Laurence follows the story of Rachel Cameron, a 34-year-old schoolteacher living in a small Manitoba town. Rachel, burdened by the responsibility of caring for her ailing mother and feeling trapped in her mundane life, slowly begins to awaken to her own power, sexuality, and worth. The novel is a deeply personal exploration of Rachel's internal struggles, desires, and growth, portrayed through Laurence's skillful use of internal monologue. As Rachel navigates a summer romance with an old classmate and grapples with societal expectations and personal desires, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience.
The book is praised for its bittersweet and sensitive portrayal of Rachel's life, offering a mature and powerful narrative that delves into themes of strength, compassion, and the complexities of human emotions. Laurence's writing style is lauded for its ability to capture the nuances of Rachel's character, providing readers with a deep understanding of her thoughts, feelings, and struggles as she navigates the challenges of her everyday existence.
The wind blows low, the wind blows high The snow comes falling from the sky, Rachel Cameron says she’ll die For the want of the golden city. She is handsome, she is pretty, She is the queen of the gol... - #3
Save:The Beggar Maid by Alice Munro is a collection of short stories following the lives of Rose and her stepmother Flo. The stories explore the evolving bond between the two women over almost forty years, depicting Rose's journey from a working-class Canadian childhood to adulthood, encompassing themes of family dynamics, personal growth, and the complexities of relationships. Munro's writing style is described as finely observed, with detailed narratives that capture subtle mannerisms, behavior, and emotions of the characters in various situations.
The word Royal lolled on Flo’s tongue, took on trappings. Rose had a need to picture things, to pursue absurdities, that was stronger than the need to stay out of trouble, and instead of taking this t...1977•221 pages - #4
Save:A Canadian classic: beautifully written, emotionally complex, and memorable - though best suited for readers who appreciate introspective, character-driven literature about aging and the human condition.
The Stone Angel by Margaret Laurence is a novel that delves into the life of Hagar Shipley, a 90-year-old woman reflecting on her past as she faces old age and death. The story is told from Hagar's point of view, as she reminisces about her childhood, marriage, and motherhood in rural Manawaka. The book explores themes of pride, stubbornness, family dynamics, and the challenges of aging, all portrayed through Hagar's unfiltered and direct narrative style.
ABOVE THE TOWN, on the hill brow, the stone angel used to stand. I wonder if she stands there yet, in memory of her who relinquished her feeble ghost as I gained my stubborn one, my mother's angel tha...1964•323 pages - #5
Save:A chilling, emotional thriller that keeps you guessing - with some heavy themes and a few pacing hiccups - but overall a gripping pick for fans of domestic suspense.
In "Never Let You Go" by Chevy Stevens, the story revolves around Lindsey Nash and her daughter Sophie as they navigate the aftermath of an abusive marriage and the return of Lindsey's ex-husband, Andrew, from prison. The novel is a gripping thriller that alternates between past and present timelines, keeping readers on edge with twists, turns, and a sense of looming danger. Stevens weaves a tale of suspense, domestic abuse, and complex family dynamics that culminates in a shocking and unexpected conclusion.
I didn’t have long. He was waiting at the beach—and he’d be counting every minute. I splashed cold water on my face, let the rivulets run down my neck and onto my shirt. I stared into the mirror. Trie...March 2017•417 pages - #6
Save:Wildly imaginative, sometimes messy, and crawling with creepy cults and cosmic horror - if you love ambitious, genre-blending small-town nightmares, this may become your new favorite. If you want neat closure, beware: this ride is gloriously bumpy.
'A God in the Shed' by J-F Dubeau is a horror novel set in a small town plagued by a serial killer and a supernatural entity. The story follows Inspector Crowley as he navigates through stomach-churning scenes, macabre horrors, and supernatural forces, all while trying to unravel the mysteries surrounding the town and its dark secrets. The book is described as graphic, creepy, and filled with twists and turns that keep the reader on edge, making it a spine-chilling and intricate read.
The writing style in 'A God in the Shed' is noted for its vivid imagination, elements of horror, and intricate storytelling. While some readers praise the depth of the story, the intricate backstory, and the author's ability to keep the suspense and gore coming, others mention instances of overwrought prose and clunky dialogue. Despite these mixed opinions, the book is commended for its unique plot, dark themes, and the way it weaves together different elements of horror and mystery to create a compelling narrative.
REGRETS ARE THE INSTRUMENTS by which we learn. We tend not to repeat the mistakes we truly regret. They may cause us pain, but regrets push us to better our lives. We regret how we treat our first lov...June 2017•450 pages - #7
Save:'Reckless at Heart' by Zoe York is a small town romance set in Canada that follows the story of Owen and Kerry. Owen, the responsible older brother who has raised his siblings after their parents passed away, finds himself attracted to Kerry, a young woman who is pregnant and under his daughter's care. Despite the challenges and boundaries, their connection grows, leading to a complex and heartwarming love story. The book delves into themes of family, responsibility, love, and the struggles of life, all set in a tight-knit and friendly town where the characters navigate through various conflicts and emotions to find their happiness.
The writing style of the book is praised for its well-developed characters, realistic relationships, and the slow-building romance between Owen and Kerry. The plot unfolds gradually, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the world of Pine Harbour and get to know not only the main characters but also the supporting cast, particularly Owen's brothers, adding depth and dimension to the story.
May 2020•326 pages - #8
Save:Addictively readable and emotionally intense, "That Night" is a solid thriller about bullying, justice, and survival - even if it sometimes feels melodramatic. Recommended for readers who enjoy psychological suspense and don’t mind some teen angst.
'That Night' by Chevy Stevens is a psychological thriller that delves into the life of Toni Murphy, a teenager who is wrongfully convicted of murdering her sister. The plot alternates between Toni's teenage years, her time in prison, and her quest for redemption after being released on parole. The writing style keeps readers engaged with its suspenseful and emotional storytelling, exploring themes of family relationships, bullying, and the search for truth.
I followed the escorting officer over to Admissions and Discharge, carrying my belongings in a cardboard box—a couple pairs of jeans, some worn-out T-shirts, the few things I’d gathered over the years...June 2014•442 pages - #9
Save:A smart, warm, and gorgeously written cozy mystery that sets the stage for a beloved series - great for anyone craving great characters and a strong sense of place, but less ideal for fans of hard-boiled adrenaline.
"Still Life" by Louise Penny is the first in the Chief Inspector Armand Gamache series, set in the small Canadian town of Three Pines. The story revolves around the murder of a beloved local artist, Jane Neal, which Inspector Gamache and his team from the Sûreté du Québec are called to investigate. As the mystery unfolds, the reader gets to know the eccentric residents of Three Pines and the intricate relationships between them. The writing style is described as a mix of cozy mystery and literary fiction, with well-developed characters and a captivating plot that keeps readers engaged until the end.
Miss Jane Neal met her maker in the early morning mist of Thanksgiving Sunday. It was pretty much a surprise all round. Miss Neal’s was not a natural death, unless you’re of the belief everything happ...2005•342 pages - #10
Save:A quietly powerful novel about family, culture, and becoming yourself - beautifully written, if occasionally emotionally restrained. Worth reading for those who enjoy thoughtful, character-first stories.
"For Today I Am a Boy" by Kim Fu follows the story of Peter, the only son of Chinese immigrants in eastern Canada, who struggles with his gender identity amidst a dysfunctional family dynamic. As Peter grows up with his three sisters, he faces the pressure of his father's expectations of Western masculinity while internally identifying as a girl. The narrative delicately explores themes of family relationships, cultural identity, and the challenges of coming of age as a transgender individual, all set against the backdrop of small-town Ontario and later Montreal. The writing style is described as gentle, quiet, and sparse yet powerful, effectively conveying Peter's emotional journey and the complexities of his personal and social environment.
ON THE DAY my sister Adele is born, my mother goes to the butcher. It is January 3, 1969. Her belly, hard as packed snow, bobs outside of her unzipped parka as she walks up to the counter. An enormous...January 2014•277 pages
