Books Like...

Ghost Talkers by Mary Robinette Kowal is an alternate history novel set during World War I, where mediums are used as a form of wireless communication for military intelligence. The story follows Ginger Stuyvesant, a medium working for the Spirit Corps, who collects reports from deceased soldiers to gain an advantage in the war. When a traitor threatens the organization, Ginger embarks on a quest to uncover the spy, leading to an engaging mystery and a heartfelt romance. The book offers a clever and thoughtful look at war, blending elements of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance.

The writing style of Ghost Talkers is praised for its fast pace, engaging storyline, and the author's ability to balance various themes within the novel. The book delves into the horrors of World War I while incorporating elements of spiritualism and ghost stories, creating a unique and captivating narrative. Readers appreciate the detailed world-building, the strong character development of Ginger and Ben, and the emotional depth of the story, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical fantasy with a twist.

'Hall of Smoke' by H.M. Long is a fantasy novel following Hessa, an Eangi warrior priestess of Eang, the Goddess of War, who embarks on a journey to win back her goddess's favor after her village is attacked. The book is filled with battles, alliances, betrayals, magic, and curses, set in a Viking-inspired world with unique gods and powers. The writing style is immersive, lyrical, and hypnotizing, with a focus on world-building and action-packed storytelling that keeps readers engaged until the wee hours of the morning.

In "Bitter Seeds," author Ian Tregillis presents an alternate history of World War II where the Nazis create superhumans through torturous means, while the British employ warlocks to harness dark powers. The story unfolds like a WWII spy novel, with both sides resorting to morally questionable acts justified by the needs of war. The narrative is dark, engaging, and suspenseful, with a focus on broken characters navigating a bleak and twisted version of history.

The book delves into themes of sacrifice, desperation, and the blurred lines between good and evil during wartime. Tregillis skillfully weaves together elements of magic, sci-fi, and historical fiction to create a haunting tale set against the backdrop of one of the darkest periods in European history.

An Alchemy of Masques and Mirrors by Curtis Craddock is a fantasy novel set in a world of floating islands, blood magic, and mirror projections. The story follows Princess Isabelle des Zephyrs, a polymath physically disabled princess, and her devoted musketeer, Jean Claude. Together, they navigate a world filled with complex villains, court intrigue, and political marriages. The writing style is described as fast-paced, intricate, and detailed, with a mix of adventure, intrigue, and witty banter reminiscent of The Three Musketeers.

In the book 'Alien Taste' by Wen Spencer, readers are introduced to Ukiah Oregon, an adolescent male with unique abilities who was raised by Mama Jo and Mama Lara in Pittsburgh. Ukiah has an eidetic memory and can read DNA traces, along with healing quickly from serious wounds. The story follows Ukiah as he tracks a missing woman in a murder case, uncovering a series of mysterious events and confronting his own extraordinary talents. The plot combines elements of urban fantasy, science fiction, and mystery, set in a contemporary timeframe with a touch of magic-like science.

The Breach by Patrick Lee is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller with elements of science fiction and political intrigue. The story follows Travis Chase as he stumbles upon a downed 747 in the Alaskan wilderness, leading him into a world of secret government agencies, mysterious objects from a breach in space and time, and a plot years in the making. As Travis gets entangled in a web of danger and intrigue, he must race against time to solve an impossible mystery and prevent cataclysmic events that could change the world as we know it.

The Bone Ships by R.J. Barker is a nautical fantasy set in a world of scattered islands where the Hundred Isles are at war with the Gaunt Isles. The battles take place on seas between ships made from the bones of extinct sea dragons. The story follows the crew of the Tide Child on a secret mission to find and defend the last dragon in their world. The writing style is described as unique, cryptic, and layered, with brutal and bloody scenes that do not shy away from death and blood. The worldbuilding includes intricate shipboard customs, a complex society with a matriarchal structure, and a dark undertone that adds depth to the narrative.