Books matching: social ostracism
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- #1
Save:A gripping, emotional time-travel romance with a refreshingly strong heroine - definitely worth diving into if you love dramatic, heart-tugging stories with historical flair.
'When There is Hope' by Jane Goodger is a captivating time travel romance novel that follows the story of Susan Butler, a woman from the 1990s who, after a fatal car crash, finds herself transported back in time to the 1800s, inhabiting the body of a woman named Margaret Johnsbury. Susan, now known as Maggie, navigates the challenges of her new life, striving to find happiness and love in a world where she is despised and misunderstood. The plot unfolds with emotional depth and subtlety, blending elements of romance and time travel to create a unique and engaging narrative that keeps readers hooked till the end.
The writing style of 'When There is Hope' is praised for its improvement as the story progresses, with readers highlighting the unique storyline that sets it apart from other time travel romance novels. The character development of Maggie/Susan, the challenges she faces, and her unwavering hope throughout the novel add layers of complexity to the plot, making it a compelling read for fans of historical romance with a touch of supernatural elements.
“Look how big I am,” she yelled to her husband, who was leaning over their bathroom sink shaving. Steve stopped the buzzing razor just long enough to spread his arms wide to indicate her size and said...May 1996•360 pages - #2
Save:A heartwarming, witty, and emotional historical romance about two lonely souls finding love and belonging - expect a cozy read with great character chemistry, though the plot may not play out perfectly for everyone.
At the notorious Hell and Sin Club nestled in London's dark streets, Niall Marksman relishes taking the fortunes of the very same society that once disregarded his existence. Oh yes, Niall has sold his soul to the devil and paid dearly. It's only when Lady Diana Verney appears at the gaming club looking for help that Niall knows that the devil has finally come to collect by forcing him to protect the duke's pampered daughter or Princess as he calls her. Diana is a strong young woman who is trying to make her own way after finding out her mother has committed horrible crimes. Diana's estrangement from society and her fears of following in her mother's madness have propelled Diana into creating a new future for herself. The book continues the wonderful Sinful Brides series, which covers the stories of the 'siblings' who run the Hell and Sin Club, and this is Niall's story. Niall stole my heart in the second book in the series The Scoundrel's Honor and I couldn't wait to hear more about him. In this, the book certainly didn't disappoint. It was a heart-wrenching rollercoaster of emotion, from laughter to tears both happy and sad. I absolutely loved the plot twists in the second half of the book, which I really wasn't expecting.
Seated in the far corner of the Devil’s Den, Niall made a show of drinking from his full tankard of ale. All the while he surveyed the enemy’s surroundings. Niall was many things: a bastard. A former...July 2017•321 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Sinful Brides ) - #3
Save:A thought-provoking but slow-burning sci-fi epic: if you’re there for in-depth world-building and societal commentary, it’s a hidden gem - if not, you may find it a slog.
The Kindly Ones by Melissa Scott is a science fiction novel set on a cold, material-poor moon of a gas giant, where a society enforces a strict code of behavior through severe social consequences. The story follows a cast of characters, including a mediator, a space pilot, and a para'an, as they navigate a world where any violation of the code leads to ostracism and social death. Through detailed world-building and intricate character development, Melissa Scott explores themes of social exile, cultural taboos, and the breakdown of societal norms in the face of change and conflict.
It began, I suppose, at Per Tamarisk, toward the end of the calendar-summer. I had spent the last two calendar-weeks in the Tamar Range, a spur of the Prosperities, escorting the Patroclan survey team...September 1987•373 pages - #4
Save:A beautifully observed, nostalgic coming-of-age novel that nails the messiness of early teen friendships - perfect for fans of sharp, heartfelt realism and 1980s atmosphere.
Set in a wealthy San Francisco neighborhood in the 1980's, "We Run the Tides" follows the story of private school friends, particularly focusing on Eulabee and her friendship with Maria Fabiola. The book delves into the dynamics of teenage friendships and the impact of peer pressure, highlighting the struggles of adolescence, mean girls, and the quest for identity. The narrative beautifully captures the complexities of teenage emotions and the challenges of growing up, set against the backdrop of a privileged community in mid-1980s San Francisco.
The plot unfolds as Eulabee navigates the unraveling of her friendship with Maria Fabiola, leading to her being ostracized by their social circle. The story is a poignant coming-of-age tale that explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and self-discovery. Through Eulabee's perspective, readers are taken on a journey of teenage angst, peer conflicts, and the nostalgia of youthful experiences, culminating in a narrative that resonates with both the joys and tribulations of adolescence.
We are thirteen, almost fourteen, and these streets of Sea Cliff are ours. We walk these streets to our school perched high over the Pacific and we run these streets to the beaches, which are cold, wi...February 2021•262 pages - #5
Save:A beautifully written, emotionally charged portrait of a family's unraveling - haunting, slow-burning, and likely to stick with you, but not for anyone looking for a breezy or upbeat read.
'We Were the Mulvaneys' by Joyce Carol Oates is a poignant and emotionally draining tale that delves into the lives of the Mulvaney family as they navigate through a tragic event that shatters their idyllic existence. The story follows the aftermath of a daughter's rape at a high school party, which leads to the disintegration of the family and the struggles each member faces in coping with the repercussions. Oates intricately weaves together the characters' perspectives, showcasing their flawed but realistic reactions to the traumatic incident, ultimately exploring themes of resilience, family dynamics, and the impact of tragedy on relationships.
The narrative is composed of detailed descriptions and explores the daily life of the Mulvaney family, capturing the nuances of their interactions and emotions as they navigate through life's highs and lows. Oates skillfully portrays the devastating effects of the event on the family members, highlighting their emotional responses and the challenges they face in trying to come to terms with the tragedy. Despite the heartbreaking storyline, the book also portrays moments of resilience and the indomitable nature of the human spirit as the Mulvaneys strive to find a new normalcy amidst the chaos.
You may have thought our family was larger, often I’d meet people who believed we Mulvaneys were a virtual clan, but in fact there were only six of us: my dad who was Michael John Mulvaney, Sr., my mo...1996•462 pages A quietly disturbing masterpiece, best read for its chilling atmosphere, complex characters, and the way it gets under your skin. Not your typical horror, but unforgettable all the same.
The novel 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle' by Shirley Jackson is a haunting tale narrated by 18-year-old Mary Katherine Merricat Blackwood, depicting the lives of the Blackwood family living in isolation in a large house on expansive grounds. The story delves into themes of ostracism, mental illness, and family dynamics, with a touch of gothic elements. Through Merricat's perspective, readers are drawn into a world of eerie suspense and chilling ambiguity, where the line between reality and imagination is blurred.
Shirley Jackson's writing style in 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle' is described as captivating, eerie, and suspenseful. With meticulous craftsmanship and a knack for building tension gradually, Jackson weaves a narrative that is both unsettling and compelling. The novel unfolds in a concise and graceful manner, with scenes that are delicately suspenseful yet warm and candid, showcasing the author's ability to cover a wide range of emotions and themes in a compact space.
My name is Mary Katherine Blackwood. I am eighteen years old, and I live with my sister Constance. I have often thought that with any luck at all I could have been born a werewolf, because the two mid...1962•202 pages- #7
Save:A unique blend of nostalgia, horror, and heartfelt friendship - "My Best Friend’s Exorcism" is creepy, funny, and surprisingly touching. Not for everyone, but perfect if you love your horror with heart and a heavy dose of 80s flair!
'My Best Friend's Exorcism' by Grady Hendrix is a horror novel set in the 1980s that follows the story of two best friends, Abby and Gretchen. The book combines elements of friendship, coming of age, and demonic possession. When Gretchen becomes possessed by a demon, Abby must navigate through the challenges of high school drama, toxic friendships, and the supernatural to save her best friend with the power of their unbreakable bond. The writing style is a mix of horror, comedy, and nostalgia, with seamless incorporation of 80s references, creating a fast-paced and entertaining read that keeps readers engaged till the end.
May 2016•360 pages - #8
Save:A warm, character-rich romance with heart, humor, and a memorable vicar-hero - despite editing niggles and some small-town stubbornness, it’s a cozy, rewarding read for historical romance lovers.
In "A Notorious Countess Confesses" by Julie Anne Long, the story revolves around Evie Duggan, an ex-courtesan seeking acceptance in Pennyroyal Green. With the help of Reverend Adam Sylvaine, Evie attempts to integrate into the community despite her scandalous past. The book explores themes of redemption, acceptance, and the complexities of relationships, all set in a historical romance backdrop. The narrative is filled with emotional depth, character growth, and a touch of humor, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.
She was confident no one would ever expect to find her in a church. After all, it was too late to save her soul. It was as black, they said, as the widow’s weeds she’d shed with the same unseemly hast...October 2012•384 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Pennyroyal Green ) - #9
Save:A juicy, drama-filled Regency romance with swoonworthy angst and second chances - perfect for escapist reading, as long as you don’t mind a few historical inaccuracies.
'Once a Duchess' by Elizabeth Boyce is a Regency romance novel that delves into the consequences of divorce in Regency England. The story follows Isabelle, a woman who faces social ostracism and hardship after being wrongfully divorced by her husband, Marshall, a novice Duke. Despite the challenges, Isabelle remains resilient and must navigate betrayal, heartache, and societal judgment as she tries to find her own path to happiness. The plot is filled with drama, angst, and complex relationships, highlighting themes of trust, betrayal, and love in a historical setting.
Isabelle Jocelyn Fairfax Lockwood, the former Duchess of Monthwaite, knelt on the stone hearth and prodded the weak fire in the grate of her small cottage in southern Leicestershire. The flames gave a...October 2012•292 pages - #10
Save:A fascinating showcase of Zahn's early sci-fi, packed with thought-provoking ideas and character-driven tales. A must for fans, a fun deep dive for genre explorers, but potentially a mixed bag for those expecting modern pacing or polish.
'Cascade Point and Other Stories' by Timothy Zahn is a collection of science fiction short stories that delve into various themes such as technological revolutions, social issues, futuristic scenarios, and moral dilemmas. Zahn's writing style is described as thought-provoking, exploring the consequences of rapid technological advancements, human interactions, and societal changes. The stories range from space exploration to dystopian futures, touching on topics like psychic abilities, alien encounters, and the impact of new technologies on society.
1983•256 pages
