A Matter of Feeling (1989) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

Mild sexual tension and chemistry typical of category romance of this era characterize the interactions between Barbara and Ruy. Content is limited to kissing, embracing, and internal monologues regarding desire; there is no graphic on-page sexual activity or detailed anatomical descriptions. In Chapter 7, the proximity between the leads is emphasized as a source of nervous tension for Barbara. Chapter 12 features a passionate embrace that serves as the book's emotional climax, focusing on sensation rather than…

Virtually non-existent in a physical sense, though there is significant emotional angst and verbal conflict between the leads throughout their stay in Portugal. One scene in Chapter 9 involves Barbara feeling physically threatened by the sheer intensity of an argument, though Ruy never strikes her. There is a moment where Ruy grips her arm too tightly, representing his desperation and lack of control rather than an intent to harm. Minor accidents like a character tripping or slamming a door in anger are the extent…

The language is very mild and reflective of 1980s editorial standards for mass-market romance. It occasionally includes 'damn' or 'hell' used for emphasis in dialogue, but lacks abrasive profanity, vulgarity, or slurs. Chapter 5 features Ruy using 'hell' during a moment of frustration regarding family expectations. Other mild exclamations like 'for heaven's sake' or 'good lord' are used by various characters to express surprise. The tone remains formal and polite, even during the most heated disagreements between…

Social drinking of wine and sherry occurs at dinners and during social gatherings in Portugal, consistent with the setting and period. In Chapter 3, the consumption of wine is used to heighten the atmosphere of a tense family dinner. Characters use alcohol as a social lubricant or a way to mark the end of a workday, but no one is depicted as intoxicated or having a substance problem. In Chapter 14, champagne is used symbolically to toast to a new beginning. References to smoking are minimal or absent, maintaining…

The novel explores themes of social class, misunderstood intent, betrayal, and the difficulty of reclaiming one's identity after a youthful heartbreak. Much of the conflict stems from Barbara's feelings of inadequacy as a teenager compared to Ruy’s aristocratic background. The narrative deals with the long-term effects of grief and the way secrets can fester within a family for over a decade. Characters struggle with the weight of tradition versus personal happiness, particularly regarding Pepita's future…