Been So Long
Book Description
Two souls intertwined by fate, yet forever shadowed by their pasts. In "Been So Long," the tension is palpable as love dares to blossom amidst unresolved grief and haunting memories. Destiny pulls them together, but family secrets threaten to tear them apart. Can they find the strength to confront their demons and embrace a future filled with hope? With heart-stopping moments and raw emotion, every page turns like the ticking of a clock toward an uncertain future. Will love be enough to heal the scars that time has etched in their hearts?
Quick Book Summary
"Been So Long" by Adrienne Thompson is a compelling African American contemporary romance that explores the turbulence of love scarred by the past. The story centers on Mona-Lisa and Corey, two individuals who are drawn together by fate but are burdened by unresolved grief and family secrets. Both protagonists must face personal demons and confront the pain that shapes their present. The novel deftly navigates the complexities of healing, trust, and vulnerability, as Mona-Lisa and Corey struggle to unlock their hearts. As the characters journey toward self-discovery, they must decide if love can transcend the ghosts of their history. With deeply emotional storytelling, Thompson weaves a tale rich in hope, reminding us that true healing often comes from within and that love, though battered, can ultimately prevail.
Summary of Key Ideas
Table of Contents
The Weight of Past Grief
Mona-Lisa is a woman haunted by loss, navigating daily life while carrying the weight of past grief. Her painful memories, particularly of a love and family fractured by betrayal, serve as an emotional barrier against opening up to new experiences. Corey, too, is caught in the undertow of his own tragic past, marked by a longing for acceptance and the scars left by abandonment. Their initial encounters are fraught with tension, as both recognize in each other a kindred spirit but remain guarded, wary of reopening old wounds.
Healing Through Love
Destiny seems to pull Mona-Lisa and Corey together, despite their misgivings. Their connection deepens as they uncover shared pain and mutual understanding; they find solace in each other's company, even as fears threaten to overshadow their bond. The narrative delicately explores the slow unraveling of emotional walls—illustrating how love can act as a catalyst for healing, even in the most unlikely circumstances. Yet, as their relationship blossoms, unresolved issues bubble to the surface, challenging them to trust again.
The Bond of Fate and Destiny
Family secrets play a pivotal role, casting long shadows over the protagonists' journey. Both Mona-Lisa and Corey must grapple with revelations that threaten to undo the fragile progress they've made. These secrets, ranging from betrayals to hidden truths, force them to reassess their perceptions of self and one another. The process demands immense courage, not just to forgive others but also themselves. The tension between the desire to move forward and the shackles of the past fuels much of the narrative’s emotional core.
Confronting Family Secrets
As obstacles mount, Mona-Lisa and Corey are compelled to reckon with the question of whether love is truly enough. Their struggles highlight the necessity of vulnerability and the risk inherent in surrendering to hope. The novel emphasizes the transformative potential of honest communication, forgiveness, and self-reflection. Through a series of heart-stopping moments, Thompson underscores the idea that healing is neither linear nor easy—but possible when kindled by authentic connection.
Choosing Hope over Fear
Ultimately, "Been So Long" is a celebration of resilience and the redemptive force of love. Thompson crafts a nuanced portrayal of Black love and the realities of confronting painful legacies within families. The story concludes with the protagonists choosing hope over fear, stepping into an uncertain future, but stronger for having faced their truths. The journey they embark on together—and individually—remains a testament to the power of perseverance, the courage to embrace vulnerability, and the lasting possibility of new beginnings.
Download This Summary
Get a free PDF of this summary instantly — no email required.