Plot Summary

Loverboy

Victoria Redel
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Loverboy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001

Book Brief

Victoria Redel

Loverboy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Suburban New York • 2000s

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Loverboy by Victoria Redel, a mother’s possessive love for her son Paul takes a perilous turn as she attempts to maintain their exclusive bond by keeping him isolated from the outside world. As Paul grows older and expresses a desire to attend school and socialize with others, his mother becomes increasingly desperate to keep him close, leading to drastic actions. The story highlights themes of maternal obsession, control, and the impact of a loveless childhood. Sensitive topics include mental illness and suicide attempts.

Mysterious

Dark

Emotional

Unnerving

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.1

358 ratings

63%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of Loverboy by Victoria Redel praise the lyrical prose and intense emotional depth. Readers appreciate the compelling narrative and complex character development, particularly the psychological portrait of motherhood. However, some find the protagonist's motivations difficult to understand, which can be alienating. Overall, the book is an evocative and provocative read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Loverboy?

A reader who would enjoy Loverboy by Victoria Redel is likely captivated by complex emotional landscapes and intense family dynamics. Fans of the psychological depth in We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver or the intricate familial relationships in Room by Emma Donoghue will find this book compelling.

4.1

358 ratings

63%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Suburban New York • 2000s

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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