Plot Summary

Bruised Hibiscus

Elizabeth Nunez
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Bruised Hibiscus

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2000

Book Brief

Elizabeth Nunez

Bruised Hibiscus

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2000
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Trinidad • 1950s

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Bruised Hibiscus by Elizabeth Nunez explores the effects of colonialism on gender roles and Caribbean society through the perspectives of two women, Rosa and Zuela, in 1950s Trinidad. Once childhood friends, they grapple with their traumatic past and abusive marriages until a murder in their town forces them to confront their realities and seek change. The book contains depictions of gender-based violence and substance misuse.

Melancholic

Mysterious

Emotional

Contemplative

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

3.9

181 ratings

65%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Bruised Hibiscus by Elizabeth Nunez is praised for its rich, evocative prose and deep exploration of complex themes like race, gender, and colonialism. Reviewers commend the novel's vivid characters and compelling narrative. However, some critics note that the pacing can be slow and the plot occasionally meanders. Overall, a thought-provoking and powerful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Bruised Hibiscus?

A reader who enjoys powerful narratives of female resilience and rich cultural settings would appreciate Elizabeth Nunez’s Bruised Hibiscus. Fans of Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God or Toni Morrison’s Beloved would find Nunez's exploration of identity and trauma captivating.

3.9

181 ratings

65%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Trinidad • 1950s

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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