Books Like...

Readers describe 'Blown Away' as a captivating romantic thriller with a perfect balance of romance and suspense. The character development is praised for making the characters come alive on each page. The story revolves around Carolina witnessing a man trying to bury a body just before a tornado touches down, leading to a series of events that involve murder, deception, and consequences. The writing style is commended for its ability to keep readers engaged and emotionally invested in the characters' journey.

In "All These Bodies" by Kendare Blake, the story revolves around a series of gruesome murders in the Midwest during the summer of 1958. The plot follows the discovery of a fifteen-year-old girl, Marie Catherine Hale, covered in blood at a murder scene. As the sole suspect in custody, she chooses to confide in Michael Jensen, the town sheriff's son, leading him to unravel the truth behind the Bloodless Murders. The book is narrated from an observer's point of view, exploring themes of truth, questioning reality, and the impact of past traumas on individuals. The writing style is described as methodical, engaging, and thought-provoking, focusing on the reliability of the characters' accounts and the ambiguity surrounding the events.

'Last Argument of Kings' by Joe Abercrombie is the final book in the 'First Law' trilogy, known for its gritty, dark, and sometimes shocking writing style. The book follows the characters as they navigate through a world filled with war, dark humor, and complex plot twists. Abercrombie's writing is praised for its realistic portrayal of characters dealing with horror and pain, with a touch of humor that adds depth to the storyline. The plot unfolds in a way that keeps readers engaged, delivering an action-packed and satisfying conclusion to the series.

The Affinity Bridge by George Mann is a steampunk mystery set in Victorian London following the adventures of Sir Maurice Newbury and Veronica Hobbes as they investigate a series of murders, a mysterious airship crash, and a plague of zombies. The story combines elements of Sherlock Holmes, Frankenstein, and Jack the Ripper in a steampunk setting filled with automatons, airships, and occult mysteries. The writing style is described as cinematic, with action-packed sequences and a mix of historical and steampunk elements creating a unique atmosphere.

Valiant follows the story of Val, a teenage girl who runs away to New York City after being betrayed by her mother and boyfriend. In the city, she befriends other runaways and delves into a world filled with fairies, trolls, and magical creatures. The book portrays a gritty urban fairy tale with dark undertones, exploring themes of betrayal, drug addiction, and the complexities of relationships. The writing style is described as intense, dark, and immersive, drawing readers into a world that is both fantastical and dangerous.

Valiant is praised for its originality, engaging plot, and well-developed characters. The book is considered a sophisticated sequel to the previous novel, Tithe, showcasing the author's depth of understanding of the imaginary world she has created. Readers appreciate the urban fantasy setting, the exploration of moral ambiguity, and the intricate relationships between the characters. The blend of real-world issues with fantastical elements adds depth to the story, making it a compelling read for both young adult and adult audiences.

'Legion' by Brandon Sanderson follows the story of Stephen Leeds, a genius private investigator with schizophrenia who sees and converses with hallucinatory people in his mind, known as aspects. These aspects help him solve cases by providing him with knowledge and skills he doesn't consciously possess. The novellas in the series explore Stephen's unique condition, his evolving capabilities, and the mysteries he investigates, all while delving into the depths of belief and reality. The writing style of the book is described as imaginative, fun, and engaging, with a touch of humor and a noir feel to it.

In "Nightlife" by Rob Thurman, readers are introduced to Cal Leandros, a young man who is half human, half something else, constantly on the run from monstrous beings known as Grendels. Alongside his brother Niko, Cal navigates a dark and dangerous world filled with evil creatures, sibling dynamics, and a mysterious past that shapes his destiny. The narrative is filled with snarky humor, action-packed scenes, and a touch of darkness that keeps readers hooked until the very end.

Thurman's writing style in "Nightlife" is described as fast-paced, engaging, and filled with witty banter that adds depth to the characters and their relationships. The story unfolds in a gritty urban fantasy setting, where themes of family, survival, and the battle against malevolent forces take center stage, creating a thrilling and immersive reading experience for fans of dark fantasy and supernatural adventures.

'War for the Oaks' by Emma Bull is an urban fantasy novel set in Minneapolis that follows Eddi, a rock musician who gets entangled in a faerie war. The story revolves around Eddi's journey as she navigates the war between the Seelie and Unseelie courts, forming relationships with various faerie beings and discovering the magical ways she can use her musical talent. The book combines elements of music, magic, and faerie lore, creating a unique and engaging narrative that captures the reader's imagination.

The writing style of 'War for the Oaks' is often praised for its ability to seamlessly blend the mundane with the magical. Emma Bull's storytelling is described as elegant and haunting, drawing readers into a world where rock and roll performers coexist with the faerie realm. The book is noted for its well-developed characters, particularly Eddi, and the way it slowly draws readers into the story until they are unable to put it down.

"Crimes Against Magic" follows the story of Nathan Garrett, an elite thief with amnesia, who slowly rediscovers his past and incredible abilities. The plot weaves between modern-day London and medieval France, introducing a mix of mythologies and historical figures. The novel is filled with action, magic, and ancient mysteries, creating an exciting start for the series.

'Apocalypse: Generic System' by Macronomicon is a unique take on the litRPG genre, blending elements of fantasy with a post-apocalyptic setting. The story follows a middle-aged retired soldier who finds himself in an impossible tutorial after Earth merges with a game-like world. The plot involves brains, engineering crafting with magic 'cores', intense fighting, and companionship, creating a narrative that is both familiar and refreshing for the genre. The characters are well-developed, with depth and likability, going through character development that adds layers to the story. The writing style is succinct, with innovative problem-solving, decent humor, and a plot that reacts to the characters' actions organically.