Books Like...
Set in an alternate history during WWI, "Witchmark" follows Miles Singer, a magical healer who escaped his noble family to work as a psychiatrist treating soldiers. As Miles uncovers mysterious illnesses and hidden secrets, he navigates a world of magic, politics, and intrigue, all while trying to avoid being bound to his family's magical legacy. The story delves into themes of power, identity, and the complexities of familial relationships, with a touch of romance and a gripping mystery at its core.
If you liked Witchmark, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Silver in the Wood is a delightful novella that weaves together elements of folklore, magic, and romance in a lush and atmospheric setting. The story follows Tobias, the Green Man of the Wood, who has been guarding the forest for centuries until a new owner, Henry Silver, arrives and disrupts the delicate balance of power. As Tobias and Henry navigate their growing connection, old secrets and ancient magic come to light, forcing them to confront the past and the mysteries of the woods they inhabit. The writing style is described as beautiful, engaging, and immersive, drawing readers into a dreamy world filled with mythical creatures, enchanting landscapes, and tender relationships.
IT WAS THE MIDDLE OF AN AUTUMN DOWNPOUR when Tobias first met Henry Silver. Summer had come and gone, and the wood was quiet. Tobias was snug inside his neat little cottage with Pearl asleep on the he... - #2
In "The Midnight Bargain" by C.L. Polk, the story unfolds in a world where women must give up magic upon marriage to protect their unborn children from dangerous spirits. The protagonist, Beatrice Clayborn, desires to become a Magus but faces pressure from her family to find a wealthy husband during the Bargaining Season. As Beatrice navigates societal expectations and her own ambitions, she forms alliances, faces impossible choices, and explores themes of love, magic, and freedom in a Regency-inspired setting with a touch of fantasy.
The book is a blend of fantasy and romance, exploring themes of women's rights, societal expectations, and the pursuit of independence in a magical world reminiscent of Regency England. With a focus on strong female characters, forbidden magic, and intricate world-building, "The Midnight Bargain" offers a unique and engaging narrative that delves into the struggles and triumphs of its characters as they navigate a society where women's magic is suppressed for the sake of tradition and family obligations.
The carriage drew closer to Booksellers’ Row, and Beatrice Clayborn drew in a hopeful breath before she cast her spell. Head high, spine straight, she hid her hands in her pockets and curled her finge... - #3
Set in an alternate Edwardian England, "A Marvellous Light" follows the story of Robin Blyth and Edwin Courcey, who are drawn into a conspiracy involving a mysterious Last Contract that could alter England's magical hierarchy. As Robin, a young noble, discovers the existence of magic and joins forces with the magic-wielding Edwin, their slow burn romance unfolds amidst a backdrop of danger and intrigue. The book combines elements of mystery, romance, and magic, with a focus on the development of the main characters and their relationship as they navigate a world where power dynamics and secrets shape their journey.
The author, Freya Marske, introduces a magical world adjacent to Edwardian England, where a system of magic intertwines with a cozy, methodical plot that gradually unfolds the mysteries at play. Through the lens of Edwin and Robin's evolving relationship, readers are immersed in a lush world rich in detail and intrigue, with a narrative that balances romance, magic, and historical elements seamlessly.
He sat breathing rapidly and with needle-stabs at each breath, propped against the oak. His legs were unfelt and unmoving like lumps of wax that had somehow been affixed to the rest of him. Resting hi... - #4
The Magpie Lord is a historical fantasy novel that follows the story of Lord Crane, who returns to England after 20 years in China to take up his title. Under a malevolent spell, Lord Crane enlists the help of magician Stephen Day, who has his own reasons to dislike Lord Crane's family. Together, they unravel mysteries, confront dark magic, and navigate a complex relationship while dealing with threats related to their sexuality. The book features elements of suspense, paranormal activities, intricate worldbuilding, and a blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance genres.
The grey awful misery tangled round his heart and throat, choking him, sickening him with the vileness of his own nature. The shame and self-loathing too deep for repentance, too deep for words. Too d... - #5
'Magic's Pawn' by Mercedes Lackey is the first book in 'The Last Herald-Mage' trilogy and follows the story of Vanyel Ashkevron, a young man who is misunderstood by his family and seeks solace in music. Sent to live with his Herald Mage aunt, Vanyel discovers his magical powers and falls in love with one of her students, Tylendel, leading to a tragic love story. The book explores themes of self-discovery, love, and the struggle to control newfound powers in a fantasy world filled with rich emotional depth.
The writing style of 'Magic's Pawn' is described as catching and interesting, with a plot that captivates readers with its emotional richness and bittersweet storytelling. The protagonist, Vanyel, is portrayed as a complex character who undergoes significant growth and development throughout the book, making it a compelling read for fans of fantasy and emotional narratives.
Radevel’s remark had probably been prompted by this very back staircase, one that started at one end of the third-floor servants’ hall and emerged at the rear of a linen closet on the ground floor. Th... - #6
Winter's Orbit is a science fiction novel that revolves around a mystery surrounding the death of Jainan's previous husband, which was initially believed to be an accident. The story unfolds as Prince Kiem and Jainan navigate through an interplanetary conspiracy while being forced into an arranged marriage to secure a peace treaty between two planets. The book delves into themes of political intrigue, relationships, and gender representation within a solar system-wide empire, providing a blend of romance, mystery, and space opera elements. The writing style is described as engaging, with a focus on character development and relationships, making it an accessible and enjoyable read for both sci-fi enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.
She sat, severe and forbidding in a high-collared tunic, in her reception room at the heart of the warren-like sprawl of the Imperial Palace. The arching windows of the tower were heavily optimized to... - #7
Luck in the Shadows is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Alec of Kerry, a young boy who is rescued from imprisonment by Seregil of Rhiminee. As Alec navigates a world of secrets and intrigue, he becomes Seregil's apprentice in thievery and spy craft. The book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery, set in a medieval ages type setting with elements of magic. The writing style is described as having detailed world-building and character development, with a focus on the slow-building relationship between Alec and Seregil.
An icy mountain wind sighed through the grating overhead, carrying with it the sweet scent of snow to come. Still weeping, the boy burrowed deeper into the sour straw. It scratched painfully against t... - #8
'The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue' follows Monty, an 18-year-old Viscount, as he embarks on the European Grand Tour with his best friend Percy and his sister Felicity. Their journey is filled with themes of sexuality, racism, and historical references, as they face highwaymen, alchemy, pirates, and privateers. The story is described as a highly romantic adventure with elements of humor, suspense, and action, offering a unique perspective on a gay male protagonist in the 17th century.
The plot of the book is praised for its engaging and charming nature, with well-developed characters and a fast-paced storyline that keeps readers hooked. The writing style is commended for its humor, historical accuracy, and the balance between adventure and sentiment. addresses important topics such as discrimination, feminism, and racism, while also providing a fun and enjoyable reading experience.
Percy’s still got all his clothes on from the night before, albeit most in neither the state nor the location they were in when originally donned, and while the bedcovers are a bit roughed up, there’s... - #9
The Binding by Bridget Collins is a unique and enchanting tale set in a fictional world where memories can be bound into books by magical binders. The story follows Emmett Farmer, who becomes apprenticed to a bookbinder and discovers the secrets and consequences involved in capturing people's memories and hiding them away. As Emmett delves deeper into the world of bookbinding, he uncovers unexpected twists, moral dilemmas, and a touch of romance, all beautifully woven together by Collins' lush and captivating writing style.
When the letter came I was out in the fields, binding up my last sheaf of wheat with hands that were shaking so much I could hardly tie the knot. It was my fault we’d had to do it the old-fashioned wa... - #10
In Ellen Kushner's 'Swordspoint', readers are transported to a nameless city divided between the Riversiders and the nobles residing on the Hill. The story revolves around a skilled swordsman, St Vier, who is hired by nobles to settle their disputes through duels. As the challenges and fights are regulated by a code, St Vier finds himself entangled in political machinations when one job deviates from the norm. The book offers a medieval-esque tale of intrigue, focusing on the interactions between the nobles, swordsmen, and the social underbelly of the city. The plot weaves together rich, complex world-building and character development, with a touch of queer representation that adds depth to the narrative.
Kushner's writing style in 'Swordspoint' is praised for its crisp and evocative language, creating a vivid backdrop for the characters and their interactions. The book is described as a melodrama of manners set in a non-magical fantasy land, focusing more on sword fighting, political intrigue, and character dynamics than fantastical elements. The author's ability to craft a time and place reminiscent of Regency London, yet distinctly unique, adds to the allure of the story, making it a compelling read for those interested in intricate plots and subtle character relationships.
SNOW WAS FALLING ON RIVERSIDE, GREAT WHITE feather-puffs that veiled the cracks in the façades of its ruined houses; slowly softening the harsh contours of jagged roof and fallen beam. Eaves were roun...