Books Like...

Starling House by Alix E. Harrow is a gothic tale centered around Opal, a young woman living in a small Kentucky town called Eden. After the death of her mother, Opal takes on the responsibility of caring for her younger brother, Jasper. To make a better life for him, she accepts a housekeeping job at the mysterious and ominous Starling House, where she uncovers secrets that have long haunted the town. The novel blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and magic, with a well-paced plot that gradually reveals the connections between the house, Opal's past, and the town's history.

Alix E. Harrow's writing style in Starling House is characterized by compelling storytelling, authentic characters, and a seamless integration of mystical elements into a realistic setting. The book delves into themes of family, duty, and self-discovery, as Opal navigates the eerie secrets of Starling House while trying to protect her brother and unravel the sinister forces at play in the town of Eden.

Hell Bent: A Novel by Leigh Bardugo is the second installment in the Alex Stern series, continuing the story of Alex's quest to bring back Darlington from Hell. The book delves into the world of Yale University's secret societies, magic, and the paranormal, as Alex and her friends navigate through complex obstacles and face the daunting task of retrieving Darlington's soul from the demonic realm. The novel is praised for its fast-paced, urgent, and suspenseful narrative, filled with rich world-building, intricate character development, and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged throughout.

In 'Ninth House' by Leigh Bardugo, the story revolves around Galaxy Alex Stern, a survivor dealing with a traumatic past who is recruited to oversee the mystical activities of the secret societies at Yale. As part of House Leathe, the ninth house, Alex becomes entangled in a web of dark secrets, disappearances, and murder on campus. The book delves into themes of trauma, magic, violence, and the power dynamics within the elite circles of Yale, creating a world where the supernatural intertwines with the everyday struggles of its characters. The writing style is described as dark, compelling, and filled with vivid descriptions that transport readers to the atmospheric setting of Yale University.

The Last Tale of the Flower Bride by Roshani Chokshi is a dark and enchanting tale that weaves together fairy tales, romance, and folklore. The story follows the Bridegroom as he discovers secrets and mysteries surrounding his wife, an eccentric millionaire with a deep connection to myth and fairy tales. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into a world filled with lush descriptions, intricate relationships, and a haunting atmosphere that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. Through multiple timelines and intertwining fairy tales, the book explores themes of past trauma, codependency, and the dangers of believing in fairy tales too fervently.

The writing in The Last Tale of the Flower Bride is described as beautifully lyrical and atmospheric, creating a sense of wonder and intrigue that captivates readers. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they are taken on a journey through dark and wondrous realms filled with vivid imagery and complex emotions. With elements of gothic romance and timeless storytelling, this book offers a unique blend of fantasy and mystery that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page.

'Peaches and Honey: These Immortal Truths' by R. Raeta is a beautifully written novel that spans over 800 years, following the intertwined lives of the immortal protagonists Anna and Khiran. The story delves into themes of immortality, humanity, suffering, kindness, and the ever-changing world they inhabit, touching on social issues such as poverty, wars, and the impact of historical events on the characters' lives. The writing style is described as stunning, with readers praising the author's ability to create a unique and immersive reading experience that blends fantasy, historical elements, and romance.

"Vampires of El Norte" by Isabel Canas is a historical romance novel set during the Mexican American War, intertwining themes of love, social hierarchy, and the horrors of war. The story follows the protagonists Néstor and Nena, exploring their tumultuous relationship amidst classism and challenges. The author skillfully weaves elements of Mexican folklore and Western genre, creating an immersive and evocative experience for readers. The writing style is described as beautiful and poetic, with vivid descriptions of the Mexican landscape and the emotional complexities of the characters.

'Familiar' by M.L. Rhodes follows the story of Emrys, a young witch living in Salem, Massachusetts, who struggles with his magical abilities and self-esteem. When he accidentally injures David, a popular jock, their lives become intertwined, leading to a night of revelations that changes everything. The plot is a mix of paranormal fantasy and romance, with a focus on the connection between Emrys and David, exploring themes of second chances and soulmates. The writing style is engaging, with a balance of detail, dialogue, and steamy scenes that keep readers hooked on the storyline.

Doctor D'Arco, Sorcerer of London by Kathryn Colvin is a lengthy Gothic romance set in Victorian London. The story unfolds around the slow-burning relationship between Doctor D'Arco and Elizabeth, a strong and relatable female character, as they navigate mystery, magic, and a murder. With rich, atmospheric descriptions and compelling character development, the book captures the essence of classic Gothic literature while keeping the reader engaged through its suspenseful plot and lively dialogue.

Weyward by Emilia Hart is a powerful and magical novel that follows the lives of three mistreated women in different time periods - Altha in 1619, Violet in 1942, and Kate in 2019. Altha is accused of witchcraft and fighting for her life, while Violet is isolated in a manor house and denied education. Kate, running away from an abusive partner, seeks solace in her great aunt's Weyward Cottage, uncovering a mysterious connection to the natural world. Through these women's stories of resilience and empowerment, the book weaves together themes of female strength, familial bonds, and the healing power of nature.

Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater is a Regency fantasy tale that follows the protagonist, Dora, who had half of her soul stolen by a faery lord in her childhood. This leads to her struggling with limited affect and navigating societal expectations in the Regency era. When Dora goes to London with her cousin to find a husband, she meets Lord Sorcier Elias Wilder, who offers to help her find a cure for her condition. The story unfolds with a mix of reluctant romance, friendships, mystery, and strength of spirit, set against the backdrop of English and Fae society politics.

The book is praised for its well-developed characters, particularly Dora and Elias, who stand out as sensible, passionate, and vulnerable individuals. The narrative is described as evenly paced, focusing on a solid story that keeps readers engaged and leaves a lasting message beyond the final page. Despite the lack of extensive world-building, readers find themselves engrossed in Elias' journey, Dora's self-discovery, and the engaging development of side characters, making the latter half of the book a swift and enjoyable read.