Review of Hugger Mugger

[Liam Patel]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Hugger Mugger" by M. L. Stark.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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"Hugger Mugger" by M.L. Stark is an autobiographical exploration of one woman's harrowing journey from childhood to adulthood, marked by relentless suffering, betrayal, and emotional manipulation. The narrative follows Mary, born in the late 1950s in a strict Catholic community in southern Germany, where her birth out of wedlock stigmatized her from the start. Her early life was marred by physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her mother, stepfather, and others in positions of authority, leaving her with deep scars she carried into adulthood.

Despite enduring unimaginable hardships, including sexual assault and emotional trauma, Mary clung to her belief in love and family, seeking redemption and a better life. Her marriage to Paul initially seemed to offer a new beginning, filled with love and excitement. However, this hope was shattered as Paul's infidelity became a constant source of pain, leading Mary into the hands of a manipulative and deceitful figure, Dr. Drake Lucifer Bates. Who is Dr. Drake Lucifer Bates? What role did he play in the life of Mary as an alternative medicine practitioner?

As the narrative unfolds, Mary’s story sheds light on the broader issues faced by women who are sexually and emotionally assaulted, often left voiceless and without recourse. Despite the constant adversity, Mary’s resilience and determination to rise above her circumstances stand out as a central theme in the book. Through her painful journey, she highlights the importance of strength, love, and the relentless pursuit of personal redemption.

I appreciate "Hugger Mugger" by M.L. Stark for its raw and unfiltered portrayal of the main character’s journey through intense hardship and betrayal. What stands out most to me is Mary’s relentless resilience and capacity to endure, reflecting the true story and life experiences of the author. Despite the constant betrayal and manipulation that Mary experiences, she continues to hold on to the belief in love, family, and her ability to overcome the hardships life throws at her. This underlying theme of survival against all odds is what I find most compelling about the book.

Throughout the narrative, the author effectively uses specific moments to illustrate her strength and resilience. For instance, Mary's traumatic childhood—marked by abuse, neglect, and betrayal from her mother and stepfather—would have been enough to break most people. The harrowing experiences in the German orphanage, where she suffered brutal punishment, such as the knee-chest stand on her buttocks, are described in painful detail. Yet these experiences did not destroy her. Instead, they seem to fuel her determination to find a loving home and carve out a life filled with love and understanding, a testament to her warrior spirit.

Mary's marriage to Paul is another poignant example of how she persists despite adversity. Initially, the marriage is portrayed as a beacon of hope—a chance for a better life and a fresh start. However, the relationship soon deteriorates due to Paul's blatant infidelity with women like Crystal and Jezebel. One of the most emotionally charged parts of the book involves Mary's encounter with the manipulative Dr. Drake Lucifer Bates.

Overall, "Hugger Mugger" is a stark, intense, and ultimately hopeful read. I would rate the book 5 out of 5 stars for its engaging quality and because I found nothing to dislike in it. It has also been exceptionally well edited.

I believe this book is most suitable for readers who are interested in stories of survival, resilience, and personal growth. Those who appreciate memoirs that delve into the darker aspects of human experience, such as emotional and psychological manipulation, will find this book particularly compelling. It serves as both a cautionary tale and a source of inspiration for anyone who has faced similar struggles or seeks to understand the depths of human endurance. The book teaches valuable lessons on staying strong in the face of adversity, embracing love over hate, and finding the courage to continue despite life's many challenges.

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Hugger Mugger
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[mimiyumo]

Mary has gone through much to be alive, most people would have given up already. But her determination is strong, despite everything else falling apart. As much as the book is motivational there's some aspect of adventure taken from the life of Mary.

[Mradushi Singhal]

Your review is deeply compelling and heartfelt, offering a powerful glimpse into the intense journey described. I admire how you highlight the themes of resilience and survival, which makes me eager to explore the story's emotional depth and impactful lessons.

[Anthony Caleb]

Reading this review I can feel Mary's pain through the emotional and physical pains faced. Brilliant review to read.

[Anthony Caleb]

Reading this review I can feel Mary's pain through the emotional and physical pains faced. Brilliant review to read.

[Adrian Bouknight]

Interesting review! I had not seen this book yet, but it sounds like an interesting read! I will keep an eye out for it, and will plan on adding it to my bookshelf! Thanks for sharing!

[Ekeh David]

I love fantasy novels and I think they take you to a place outside of this world. I also love the fact that it has action incorporated in it. That is a great element for me as well Can’t wait to read it. Congrats on BOTD.

[Ebis]

Interesting review! reading the empathy filed my heart for Mary,I can imagine the pains and betrayal.

[Noellissa Swaby]

This book was amazing

[Sofia SAID 2]

This review is helpful,as it can be therapeutic to a person with similar experience,and can relate to it...it also helps one to overcome obstacles with having hope of a better tomorrow

[somone]

I recently got to know about this book, thank you for sharing the review now it makes me curious to dive deeper into the pages of this book.

[Magdalyne chebet]

"Hugger Mugger" by M.L. Stark delivers powerful lessons on resilience, survival, and personal redemption. Through Mary’s harrowing journey of abuse, betrayal, and manipulation, the book emphasizes the strength to endure unimaginable hardships. Her relentless hope for love and family despite adversity makes this an inspiring and thought-provoking read—one that deserves a spot on any must-read list. Thank you for the detailed and informative review!

[La Dunar]

What struck me most was Mary’s resilience as she endures a life filled with betrayal, abuse, and manipulation, yet continues to believe in love and family. Her strength in surviving her traumatic childhood and her turbulent marriage is inspiring, even as she faces manipulation by figures like Dr. Drake Lucifer Bates. The book offers a raw portrayal of human endurance and resilience, and I couldn’t find anything to dislike. It’s perfect for readers drawn to stories of personal growth and overcoming adversity.

[Qolisile Mthethwa]

This book is inspiring every person whose been through to the similar situation, and tried to survive, fighting every trauma and depression.the author is trying to heal every person that has/had a similar situation

[Naimah Agboluaje]

This review of "Hugger Mugger" by M.L. Stark portrays the book as a raw and intense exploration of resilience and survival. The reviewer praises the author's ability to capture the main character's strength amidst unimaginable hardships. The book touches on themes of abuse, betrayal, and the pursuit of redemption, making it a compelling read for those interested in memoirs that delve into the darker aspects of human experience. The New Yorker accent adds a touch of sophistication to the comment. Overall, I would give this review a 5 out of 5 rating for its concise and well-researched nature. Richly textured world-building, felt expansive.