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5 Books that left my jaw on the floor
Books have a unique ability to evoke powerful emotions, but some stories go beyond and leave you utterly speechless. These rare gems captivate you from the first page, pulling you into their world and not letting go until the final, jaw-dropping sentence. From raw explorations of trauma to deeply personal journeys of healing and growth, these five books left my jaw on the floor. If you're looking for unforgettable stories that will shake you to your core, these are the ones to add to your reading list.
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1. Girl in Pieces
by Kathleen Glasgow
This haunting novel follows Charlotte "Charlie" Davis as she navigates through the aftermath of severe trauma, self-harm, and homelessness. Glasgow's brutally honest portrayal of mental illness and survival creates a visceral, emotional experience that leaves a lasting impact. Through the jagged pieces of Charlie's life, readers are invited to witness both the darkness and the small but significant steps toward healing. Girl in Pieces grips you with its raw vulnerability and heartbreaking beauty, leaving you in awe of Charlie's resilience.
Pages: 495
Language: English
Year: 2023
2. The Way I Used to Be
by Amber Smith
Eden's story is one of quiet devastation. After experiencing sexual assault, her life spirals into a whirlwind of confusion, anger, and guilt. Smith captures the complexity of trauma and the profound ways it can alter a person's sense of self. Eden’s struggle to reclaim her identity, layered with anger and sorrow, builds a narrative so intense that it leaves you breathless. The emotional rollercoaster takes you to dark places but also shines a light on the strength required to survive.
Pages: 495
Language: English
Year: 2023
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3. You’d Be Home Now
by Kathleen Glasgow
Another masterpiece from Kathleen Glasgow, this novel examines the ripple effects of addiction on a family. Emory’s brother Joey is an addict, and while the world around her focuses on his recovery, Emory quietly struggles to find her place and voice. Glasgow delivers another soul-wrenching narrative with deeply flawed and human characters. The story’s raw emotion and the way it speaks to guilt, love, and the weight of responsibility will leave you emotionally charged and in awe of Glasgow’s storytelling.
Pages: 495
Language: English
Year: 2023
4. How It Feels to Float
by Helena Fox
This poignant, beautifully written novel dives into the world of mental health, grief, and identity. Biz, the main character, is struggling with the loss of her father and the overwhelming thoughts that fill her mind. Helena Fox's poetic prose and vivid descriptions make this a powerful exploration of inner turmoil. Biz’s journey feels like a dream, both surreal and deeply moving, with moments that make your heart stop. The novel's delicate handling of heavy topics resonates long after you close the final page.
Pages: 495
Language: English
Year: 2023
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5. If He Had Been with Me
by Laura Nowlin
This heart-wrenching novel is a slow burn of longing, missed opportunities, and what-ifs. Autumn and Finn, once inseparable childhood friends, have drifted apart but continue to orbit each other’s lives. The tension between them builds over the years, creating a sense of inevitable tragedy that explodes in the book's devastating climax. Nowlin’s writing leaves you haunted by the heartbreaking realism of young love and loss, and the feeling of "what could have been" lingers long after you finish reading.
Pages: 495
Language: English
Year: 2023
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Each of these books pulls you into emotional depths that are hard to forget, offering narratives filled with pain, healing, and unforgettable moments that leave your jaw on the floor.
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