The best 16 Abuse books

Abuse is a deeply troubling and pervasive issue that affects individuals and communities around the world. To shed light on this important topic, we've curated a collection of books that delve into the various forms of abuse, its impact on survivors, and strategies for prevention and healing.
Through these insightful titles, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding abuse and how we can work towards creating a safer and more compassionate world.

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1
Abuse Books: Push by Sapphire

Push

Sapphire

What's Push about?

Set in Harlem in the 1980s, "Push" tells the story of Precious Jones, an illiterate and abused teenager who finds the strength to overcome her circumstances and pursue a better life. Through raw and powerful prose, Sapphire explores themes of resilience, trauma, and the power of education. This novel offers a poignant and unflinching look at the harsh realities faced by many young women, while also celebrating the possibility of redemption and self-discovery.

Who should read Push?

  • Readers who are interested in exploring the themes of trauma, resilience, and personal growth
  • People who enjoy character-driven, emotionally impactful stories
  • Individuals who appreciate raw and gritty storytelling that tackles difficult subjects

2
Abuse Books: Kill Switch by Penelope Douglas

Kill Switch

Penelope Douglas

What's Kill Switch about?

Kill Switch by Penelope Douglas is a gripping thriller that delves into the dark and twisted world of revenge. When Damon, a man with a troubled past, seeks retribution against those who wronged him, he sets his sights on Winter, the one person who betrayed him. As the tension escalates and secrets unravel, the line between predator and prey becomes blurred, leaving readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Who should read Kill Switch?

  • Readers who enjoy dark romance and psychological thrillers
  • Those looking for a complex and intense love story
  • Individuals who appreciate a flawed and morally ambiguous protagonist

What's The Little Book of Self-Care for Leo about?

The Little Book of Self-Care for Leo by Constance Stellas offers personalized self-care tips and techniques tailored specifically for individuals born under the sign of Leo. Drawing on astrology and mindfulness practices, this book provides insights and strategies to help Leos nurture their unique strengths, manage their challenges, and prioritize their well-being.

Who should read The Little Book of Self-Care for Leo?

  • Leo individuals who want to prioritize their self-care and well-being

  • Those who are interested in incorporating astrology and personalized self-care practices into their daily routine

  • People looking for practical and creative self-care tips tailored specifically to the Leo zodiac sign


4
Abuse Books: Psychopath Free by Jackson MacKenzie

Psychopath Free

Jackson MacKenzie

What's Psychopath Free about?

Psychopath Free by Jackson MacKenzie is a compelling book that delves into the world of psychopathy and its impact on relationships. Drawing from personal experiences and extensive research, the author provides valuable insights and practical advice for those who have been involved with a psychopath. It offers a roadmap to healing and reclaiming your life after such a toxic relationship.

Who should read Psychopath Free?

  • Individuals who have experienced toxic and manipulative relationships

  • People who want to understand the traits and behaviors of psychopaths and narcissists

  • Those seeking guidance and support in healing from emotional abuse


5
Abuse Books: Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott

Living Dead Girl

Elizabeth Scott

What's Living Dead Girl about?

Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott is a haunting and heartbreaking novel that delves into the life of a young girl who has been kidnapped and held captive for years. The story explores themes of power, control, and the devastating impact of abuse. It is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

Who should read Living Dead Girl?

  • Readers who are interested in exploring the psychological impact of trauma

  • Those who appreciate dark and haunting narratives that delve into difficult subject matter

  • Individuals who enjoy thought-provoking and emotionally intense storytelling


6
Abuse Books: Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

Big Little Lies

Liane Moriarty

What's Big Little Lies about?

Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty is a gripping novel that delves into the lives of three women whose seemingly perfect lives unravel to reveal dark secrets and lies. Set in a picturesque coastal town, the book explores themes of friendship, motherhood, and domestic violence, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Who should read Big Little Lies?

  • Readers who enjoy mystery and suspense
  • People interested in exploring the complexities of female friendships and relationships
  • Those looking for a thought-provoking novel that addresses societal issues such as domestic violence and bullying

7
Abuse Books: The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train

Paula Hawkins

What's The Girl on the Train about?

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the story of Rachel, an alcoholic who becomes obsessed with a seemingly perfect couple she sees from the train every day. When the woman goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation and uncovers dark secrets about the people involved. Filled with twists and turns, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read The Girl on the Train?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with unreliable narrators
  • Those looking for a captivating and suspenseful story with unexpected twists
  • People who are interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of obsession

8
Abuse Books: The Gaslighting Recovery Workbook by Amy Marlow-MaCoy LPC

The Gaslighting Recovery Workbook

Amy Marlow-MaCoy LPC

What's The Gaslighting Recovery Workbook about?

The Gaslighting Recovery Workbook by Amy Marlow-MaCoy LPC is a practical guide designed to help individuals heal from the effects of gaslighting. Through insightful exercises and reflection prompts, the book offers a step-by-step approach to rebuilding self-esteem, setting boundaries, and regaining a sense of reality and empowerment. It provides valuable tools for anyone who has experienced psychological manipulation and is seeking to reclaim their sense of self.

Who should read The Gaslighting Recovery Workbook?

  • Individuals who have experienced gaslighting in any type of relationship

  • People who want to rebuild their self-esteem and trust in their own reality

  • Those seeking practical tools and exercises to heal from emotional abuse


9
Abuse Books: Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

Sharp Objects

Gillian Flynn

What's Sharp Objects about?

Sharp Objects is a psychological thriller by Gillian Flynn that delves into the dark and twisted mind of its protagonist, journalist Camille Preaker. Assigned to cover a series of murders in her hometown, Camille is forced to confront her own troubled past and unravel the secrets that have haunted her family for years. With its gripping narrative and shocking revelations, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Sharp Objects?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers
  • Those interested in complex and flawed female protagonists
  • People who appreciate dark and atmospheric storytelling

10
Abuse Books: If You Find Me by Emily Murdoch

If You Find Me

Emily Murdoch

What's If You Find Me about?

If You Find Me by Emily Murdoch is a gripping and emotional novel that delves into themes of survival, family, and the resiliency of the human spirit. The story follows 15-year-old Carey and her younger sister Jenessa, who have been living in the woods with their unstable mother. When they are discovered and brought back into the real world, they must confront their traumatic past and navigate a new reality. This thought-provoking book will keep you hooked until the very end.

Who should read If You Find Me?

  • Readers who enjoy emotionally impactful stories

  • Those who appreciate complex and authentic characters

  • People who are interested in exploring themes of resilience, survival, and family


11
Abuse Books: Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris

Behind Closed Doors

B. A. Paris

What's Behind Closed Doors about?

Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the dark and twisted reality of a seemingly perfect marriage. The story follows Grace, who appears to have it all – a handsome husband, a beautiful home, and a luxurious lifestyle. But as the truth unravels, we discover the horrifying secrets that lie behind closed doors.

Who should read Behind Closed Doors?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with a focus on domestic suspense
  • Those interested in exploring complex and manipulative relationships
  • People who appreciate a fast-paced and addictive storytelling style

What's Power: Surviving and Thriving After Narcissistic Abuse about?

Power: Surviving and Thriving After Narcissistic Abuse by Shahida Arabi is a comprehensive guide for anyone who has experienced the devastating effects of narcissistic abuse. Drawing from her own personal experiences and extensive research, Arabi offers practical strategies and empowering insights to help survivors reclaim their power, heal from trauma, and build a life free from the toxic influence of narcissists. This book provides valuable information and support for anyone seeking to break free from the cycle of abuse and create a brighter future.

Who should read Power: Surviving and Thriving After Narcissistic Abuse?

  • Individuals who have experienced or are currently experiencing narcissistic abuse

  • People who want to understand the dynamics of narcissistic relationships and how to break free from them

  • Those seeking validation and support in their journey to healing and reclaiming their power


13

What's Thirteen Reasons Why about?

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher is a gripping novel that explores the reasons behind a teenage girl's decision to take her own life. Through cassette tapes left behind, the protagonist, Clay Jensen, uncovers the events that led to her tragic choice. This thought-provoking book delves into important themes such as bullying, mental health, and the impact of our actions on others.

Who should read Thirteen Reasons Why?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and emotionally impactful stories

  • Individuals interested in exploring themes of mental health, bullying, and the consequences of our actions

  • Teenagers and young adults who can relate to the challenges and pressures of high school


14
Abuse Books: Assuming Names by Tanya Thompson

Assuming Names

Tanya Thompson

What's Assuming Names about?

Assuming Names is a gripping memoir by Tanya Thompson that delves into the world of identity theft and deception. The book follows the author's own experiences as she assumes multiple false identities in order to escape a troubled past. With a mix of suspense and dark humor, Thompson takes readers on a wild ride as she navigates the dangerous and thrilling world of assuming names.

Who should read Assuming Names?

  • Individuals who are intrigued by true crime
  • Those who enjoy reading about clever impersonations and cons
  • People interested in exploring the psychology behind deception and identity

15
Abuse Books: Sold by Patricia McCormick

Sold

Patricia McCormick

What's Sold about?

Sold by Patricia McCormick is a compelling novel that tells the story of Lakshmi, a young girl from Nepal who is sold into prostitution in India. Through beautiful and haunting prose, the book sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many young girls and women around the world. It is a powerful and important read that raises awareness about human trafficking and the strength of the human spirit.

Who should read Sold?

  • Individuals seeking to understand the reality of human trafficking
  • Activists and advocates working to combat modern slavery
  • Readers who appreciate realistic and eye-opening storytelling

16
Abuse Books: Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Speak

Laurie Halse Anderson

What's Speak about?

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson is a powerful novel that tells the story of Melinda, a high school freshman who becomes an outcast after a traumatic event. Unable to speak about what happened, she struggles with depression and isolation. Through her journey, she finds her voice and ultimately learns to speak up and confront the truth.

Who should read Speak?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and emotionally impactful novels
  • Young adults and teenagers dealing with issues such as bullying, depression, and finding their voice
  • Parents, teachers, and professionals looking to understand the challenges and experiences of adolescents

Related Topics

Abuse Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Abuse book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Push as the ultimate read on Abuse.

What are the Top 10 Abuse books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Push by Sapphire
  • Kill Switch by Penelope Douglas
  • The Little Book of Self-Care for Leo by Constance Stellas
  • Psychopath Free by Jackson MacKenzie
  • Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott
  • Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
  • The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
  • The Gaslighting Recovery Workbook by Amy Marlow-MaCoy LPC
  • Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
  • If You Find Me by Emily Murdoch

Who are the top Abuse book authors?

When it comes to Abuse, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Sapphire
  • Penelope Douglas
  • Constance Stellas
  • Jackson MacKenzie
  • Elizabeth Scott