Books matching: troubled characters
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- #1
Save:A thoughtful, emotionally rich romance that doesn’t shy away from hard truths. If you appreciate character-driven stories and don’t mind some emotional weight, this one’s a hidden gem.
'But That Was Yesterday' by Kathleen Eagle is a contemporary romance novel that delves into the themes of alcoholism recovery, relationships, and redemption. The story follows a recovering alcoholic road worker who is trying to establish a support system on his reservation, while navigating a complex relationship with his boss, a highway engineer. The book is praised for its realistic portrayal of troubled characters and the challenges they face, with a strong focus on Native American culture and the impact of addiction on individuals and relationships. The writing style is described as thought-provoking, engaging, and filled with insights into the struggles of the characters.
October 1988•195 pages - #2
Save:A quirky, heartfelt, and hopeful read about second chances and mental health. It’s not your average rom-com, with more grit and genuine emotion than the movie. Pick this up if you want a story that’s as funny as it is moving, but maybe skip if you hate football or need complex prose.
The Silver Linings Playbook is a heartwarming story about Pat Peoples, a man in his mid-thirties who moves back in with his parents after a long stay in a psych ward. The book delves into themes of love, family, friendship, mental illness, and the journey of recovery. Through quirky characters and a mix of comedy and touching moments, the story follows Pat's path towards finding happiness and dealing with his past, all while exploring the complexities of human emotions and relationships.
The book is narrated from Pat's perspective, offering a unique insight into his struggles, delusions, and attempts to navigate the real world after his time in a mental institution. The writing style is engaging, with a mix of humor, emotional depth, and a touch of unpredictability that keeps readers invested in Pat's journey towards finding his own 'silver lining' amidst life's challenges.
I don’t have to look up to know Mom is making another surprise visit. Her toenails are always pink during the summer months, and I recognize the flower design imprinted on her leather sandals; it’s wh...September 2008•307 pages - #3
Save:A polarizing, darkly comic odyssey into privileged ennui and self-destruction - brilliantly written and utterly unique, but absolutely not for everyone.
'My Year of Rest and Relaxation' by Ottessa Moshfegh follows an unnamed narrator, a young woman in New York City who, after inheriting her parents' wealth, decides to spend a year in a drug-induced sleep, cutting off contact with the world. The book delves into themes of depression, escapism, and societal disdain, as the narrator navigates a year of numbness and self-imposed isolation, reflecting on relationships, privilege, and the pursuit of rest and relaxation. Moshfegh's writing style is described as dark, raw, and honest, capturing the protagonist's apathy and vulnerability, while also maintaining a sense of humor and quirkiness throughout the narrative.
WHENEVER I WOKE UP, night or day, I’d shuffle through the bright marble foyer of my building and go up the block and around the corner where there was a bodega that never closed. I’d get two large cof...July 2018•303 pages - #4
Save:A beautifully written, haunting dive into mental health, gender expectations, and 1950s America - it’s not an easy read, but it’s a powerful and enduring one.
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a haunting and beautifully written novel that delves into the descent of Esther Greenwood into madness and depression. The story follows Esther, a young woman with a bright future, as she struggles with her mental health, ends up in a psychiatric ward after a suicide attempt, and navigates her way back to normalcy. Plath's writing style is described as poetic, vivid, and sparse, perfectly capturing the delicate yet powerful essence of the subject matter.
The book provides a raw and honest portrayal of depression, mental illness, and the societal pressures faced by women in the 1950s America. Plath's storytelling is poignant, dark, and at times morbidly funny, offering a deep insight into Esther's internal struggles and the challenges she encounters on her journey towards self-discovery and recovery.
It was a queer, sultry summer, the summer they electrocuted the Rosenbergs, and I didn’t know what I was doing in New York. I’m stupid about executions. The idea of being electrocuted makes me sick, a...1961•261 pages - #5
Save:Not your typical whodunit - come for the Irish noir atmosphere and damaged but compelling main character, not for a cozy or conventional mystery. If you like your crime fiction dark, raw, and literary, you’ll be hooked.
'The Guards' by Ken Bruen follows the story of Jack Taylor, an alcoholic ex-cop turned private investigator who is hired to look into the questionable suicide of a young girl. While the plot revolves around solving the case, the focus is more on Jack's turbulent life, his struggles with addiction, and his introspective journey. The writing style is described as hard-boiled, poetic, and atmospheric, with elements of Irish noir that delve deep into Jack Taylor's psyche and his morally ambiguous world.
It’s a serious place for serious drinking. No bouncers with intercoms on the door. Not an easy pub to find. You head up Shop Street, skip Garavan’s, turn into a tiny alley and you’re home. If not free...2001•304 pages - #6
Save:A touching, funny, and sometimes tear-inducing journey perfect for anyone who’s loved a dog. If you enjoyed "A Dog’s Purpose," this sequel will tug at your heart all over again.
A Dog's Journey, the second book in the A Dog's Purpose series by W. Bruce Cameron, continues the heartwarming story of a dog's love and dedication to his humans. The book follows the journey of a dog named Buddy Molly Max Toby as his spirit travels through different lives, always with the aim of protecting his girl. The story teaches about love, devotion, and the bond between humans and animals, portraying the dog's experiences in a unique and touching way.
The fur on my legs was as black as the rest of me, but down at my paws it had, over time, become tinged with white. I had lived a long and full life with a boy named Ethan, spending many lazy afternoo...May 2012•355 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series A Dog's Purpose ) - #7
Save:A heartfelt, hopeful, friends-first romance with endearing leads and genuine character growth. Perfect for those who savor character-driven stories and slow-burn love.
All The Wrong Shelves by Felicia Blaedel follows the story of Nessa and Zander, two university students in Copenhagen who form an unlikely bond. Zander, a charming yet troubled student, finds himself homeless and taken in by Nessa, a kind-hearted and loyal woman. As they navigate their personal struggles and past traumas, their relationship blossoms into a deep and meaningful connection. The book delves into themes of redemption, self-discovery, and the power of love and acceptance in overcoming obstacles. The writing style is described as heartfelt, genuine, and romantic, with a focus on character development and emotional depth.
My sister’s neighbour meets me in front of her flat and hands me the keys with a sympathetic smile. I try to return it even though I’m running on fumes. I’m desperate to be alone after spending the la...February 2021•341 pages
(Also, see 7 recommendations for the series Without Filter ) - #8
Save:Deliciously dark, addictive, and filled with emotional chaos - if you liked book one or enjoy anti-hero romances, you’ll want to keep reading. But if you need your love stories with less toxicity, you may want to skip this one. Either way, bring popcorn (and maybe a stress ball)!
In "Steel Princess," the story evolves quickly, keeping readers on their toes with shocking revelations and a fast-paced plot. The book delves into the complex relationship between Elsa and Aiden, exploring themes of power dynamics, manipulation, and self-discovery. Rina Kent's writing style is described as dark and intense, with intricate plot twists and well-developed characters that captivate readers' attention from start to finish.
- #9
Save:A beautifully unsettling blend of chilling stories and disturbing visuals - perfect for fans of weird, literary horror, but may not satisfy those after classic scares or clear resolutions.
'The Nightmare Factory' is a graphic novel featuring adaptations of four short stories by Thomas Ligotti, a writer known for his weird horror genre. The stories delve into eerie and disturbing themes, with some readers finding them to be truly terrifying. The book showcases different artists for each story, bringing a unique visual representation to Ligotti's dark and unsettling narratives.
n a beautiful home in a beautiful part of town—the town of Nolgate, site of the state prison—Dr. Munck examined the evening newspaper while his young wife lounged on a sofa nearby, lazily flipping thr...1984•552 pages - #10
Save:Bold, messy, real, and full of heart - Not Otherwise Specified is a must-read for anyone searching for authentic queer representation and stories about self-acceptance. Bring tissues!
Not Otherwise Specified by Hannah Moskowitz follows the story of Etta, a black bisexual former ballerina dealing with an eating disorder in Nebraska. Etta struggles to fit in various aspects of her life, from her sexuality to her desire to become a ballerina. The book delves into themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and the challenges faced by bisexual individuals in finding acceptance and dealing with bullying. The writing style, characterized by long, descriptive sentences and a stream of consciousness narrative, brings Etta's vibrant and authentic voice to life, making her a relatable and complex character.
The plot revolves around Etta's journey of self-discovery and coming to terms with her identity amidst societal pressures and personal struggles. The book explores the complexities of relationships, both toxic and supportive, while highlighting the importance of embracing one's uniqueness and finding acceptance in a world that often tries to categorize and label individuals.
TIME FOR THE ETTA-GETS-HER-GROOVE-BACK PARTY. It would be easier if I’d been invited, or if this party actually existed, but whatever. I made my entire Halloween costume this year from a bag of sequin...March 2015•304 pages
