Meet New Books

Books Like...

A darker, more complex follow-up to Chocolat - rich in magic, intrigue, and Parisian flavor. A must for fans of the original, though prepare for a more bittersweet and haunting read.

If you liked The Girl with No Shadow, here are the top 16 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Chocolat)

Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 16 
  1. #1
    Wintersmith
    Book 35 in the series:Discworld

    Wintersmith - Discworld by Terry Pratchett
    Save:

    A witty, thoughtful, and magical coming-of-age tale. "Wintersmith" is perfect for readers who enjoy smart fantasy that doesn't talk down to anyone - Pratchett fans (new and old) will find plenty to love.

    Tiffany Aching, a young witch-in-training, finds herself in a predicament after interrupting the Dance of the Seasons and capturing the attention of the Wintersmith, the elemental spirit of winter. As a result, she must navigate witch politics, friendships, and boy troubles to rectify the chaos caused by her actions. With the help of her friends, including the mischievous Wee Free Men, Tiffany must find a way to set things right before her homeland succumbs to the icy grip of winter. Terry Pratchett weaves elements of fantasy, humor, and mythology into a delightful tale that explores themes of responsibility, growth, and the consequences of one's actions.

    There was a small hill of snow where there had been, a few hours ago, a little cluster of thorn trees on an ancient mound. This time last year there had been a few early primroses; now there was just...
    2006
    432 pages

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld )

  2. #2

    Leven Thumps and the Gateway to Foo - Leven Thumps by Obert Skye
    Save:

    A fun, fast-paced fantasy romp with unique characters and lots of laughs - perfect for young fantasy fans, but may not be for everyone.

    Leven Thumps, a fourteen-year-old boy from Oklahoma, discovers his responsibility to protect the land of Foo, the world of hopes and dreams. Joined by Winter, a young girl with mysterious powers, and Geth, a former king transformed into a toothpick, they must find and destroy the gateway to Foo to prevent the evil overlord Sabine from gaining power over both reality and Foo. The story unfolds with a mix of humor, adventure, and imaginative world-building, appealing to readers of various ages with its charming characters and engaging plot.

    2005
    371 pages

  3. #3
    The Shepherd's Crown
    Book 41 in the series:Discworld

    The Shepherd's Crown - Discworld by Terry Pratchett
    Save:

    A poignant, if imperfect, send-off for Discworld - essential reading for fans saying goodbye, but best appreciated after the earlier Tiffany Aching books.

    Terry Pratchett's 'The Shepherd's Crown' is the final novel in the Discworld series, marking the end of an era for fans of the beloved author. The book follows Tiffany Aching, a young witch, as she faces a formidable foe in the form of the elves threatening Discworld. The story touches on themes of legacy, grief, and the clash between magic and modernity, all while weaving in Pratchett's signature humor and compassion. Despite some unfinished elements due to the author's passing, the book serves as a poignant farewell to Discworld, with readers praising its depth and the sense of closure it brings to the series.

    IT WAS ONE of those days that you put away and remember. High on the downs, above her parents’ farm, Tiffany Aching felt as though she could see to the end of the world. The air was as clear as crysta...
    2015
    337 pages

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld )

  4. #4
    A Hat Full of Sky
    Book 32 in the series:Discworld

    A Hat Full of Sky - Discworld by Terry Pratchett
    Save:

    A delightful, witty, and thoughtful adventure - "A Hat Full of Sky" is both charming and profound, showing Pratchett at his best. Highly recommended for anyone open to magical tales that make you laugh - and think.

    'A Hat Full of Sky' by Terry Pratchett is the second book in the Tiffany Aching series, part of the Discworld universe. The story follows young witch Tiffany Aching as she embarks on her apprenticeship with Miss Level, facing challenges such as a hiver, a parasitic entity that takes over one's consciousness. With the help of the Nac Mac Feegle and Granny Weatherwax, Tiffany must navigate her training and defeat the looming threat. The book is praised for its engaging plot, witty writing style, and the character development of Tiffany Aching.

    The book is described as a coming-of-age story for tweens, set in the Discworld universe, with a focus on Tiffany's journey to becoming a capable witch. The narrative is filled with humor, wisdom, and fantastical elements like the Nac Mac Feegle faeries, adding charm and depth to the story. Readers appreciate the seamless world-building by Terry Pratchett and the way he explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and courage through the adventures of Tiffany Aching.

    It came crackling over the hills, like an invisible fog. Movement without a body tired it, and it drifted very slowly. It wasn’t thinking now. It had been months since it had last thought, because the...
    2004
    358 pages

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld )

  5. #5

    Matilda by Roald Dahl
    Save:

    A classic tale of brains, heart, and a little magic - Matilda is Roald Dahl at his delightful best, perfect for clever kids (and kids at heart) who know the world can be changed, one page at a time.

    Matilda by Roald Dahl is a heartwarming story about a brilliant young girl named Matilda who faces neglect and mistreatment from her parents. Despite her challenging home life, Matilda's love for reading and her intelligence lead her to discover her unique abilities, including telekinesis. She attends a strict school where she encounters the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, but finds solace in her kind teacher, Miss Honey. Through her courage, wit, and special powers, Matilda stands up against injustice and ultimately finds a place where she belongs.

    Nearly every weekday afternoon Matilda was left alone in the house. Her brother (five years older than her) went to school. Her father went to work and her mother went out playing bingo in a town eigh...
    1988
    252 pages

  6. #6

    The Princess Bride by William Goldman
    Save:

    A witty, swashbuckling fantasy that plays with fairy tale tropes - read it for the laughs and adventure, but be prepared for a quirky, layered narrative voice. If you love the movie or clever storytelling, it’s well worth your time!

    'The Princess Bride' by William Goldman is a unique story within a story, where Goldman presents an abridged version of a classic tale filled with true love, adventure, and humor. The author's commentary and narration add a new layer to the narrative, creating a metafictional experience that intertwines with the main storyline. Readers are taken on a journey through the whimsical world of pirates, giants, and true love, all while exploring the relationship between the abridged version and the original tale.

    Goldman's writing style is described as witty, engaging, and filled with clever asides that provide insight into the characters and the story. The book offers a blend of fantasy, romance, and humor, making it a timeless and enjoyable read for both adults and children. With detailed backstories, quirky characters, and a mix of adventure and satire, 'The Princess Bride' captivates readers with its storytelling and metafictional elements.

    How is such a thing possible? I’ll do my best to explain. As a child, I had simply no interest in books. I hated reading, I was very bad at it, and besides, how could you take the time to read when th...
    1973
    429 pages

  7. #7
    Wyrd Sisters
    Book 6 in the series:Discworld

    Wyrd Sisters - Discworld by Terry Pratchett
    Save:

    A hilarious, sharp, and clever Discworld novel that’s a brilliant send-up of Shakespeare and a showcase for Pratchett’s wit - perfect for fans of smart fantasy, but may be a bit much if you prefer straightforward stories.

    "Wyrd Sisters" by Terry Pratchett is a humorous and witty tale set in the Discworld universe, focusing on the adventures of three witches - Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, and Magrat Garlick. The story is a parody of Shakespeare's Macbeth, incorporating elements of the play within a fantastical setting. The book cleverly weaves together themes of power, royalty, and the absurdity of human nature, all while delivering a unique narrative style that blends satire with fantasy elements.

    The writing style of "Wyrd Sisters" is characterized by its clever wordplay, sharp humor, and imaginative storytelling. Terry Pratchett expertly combines cultural and literary references, such as Shakespeare's works, to create a funny and intriguing narrative that explores themes of politics, magic, and the complexities of human relationships. The book offers a delightful escapism into a world where witches meddle in royal affairs, actors perform questionable plays, and the boundaries between reality and fiction blur.

    The night was as black as the inside of a cat. It was the kind of night, you could believe, on which gods moved men as though they were pawns on the chessboard of fate. In the middle of this elemental...
    1988
    324 pages

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Discworld )

  8. #8

    A Discovery of Witches - All Souls by Deborah Harkness
    Save:

    An enchanting, bookish paranormal romance where academia collides with magic; perfect for fans of slow-burn stories and gothic libraries, but not for those craving fast-paced action.

    'A Discovery of Witches' by Deborah Harkness follows the story of Diana Bishop, a witch who is hesitant to embrace her powers, and Matthew, an ancient vampire who falls in love with her. The book combines elements of romance, mystery, historical fiction, and paranormal themes. The plot delves into the complex relationships between witches, vampires, and daemons, while also exploring the history of these creatures. Harkness's writing style incorporates detailed descriptions of settings, academic research, and character interactions, creating a rich and immersive world for readers to explore.

    The leather-bound volume was nothing remarkable. To an ordinary historian, it would have looked no different from hundreds of other manuscripts in Oxford’s Bodleian Library, ancient and worn. But I kn...
    February 2011
    614 pages

  9. #9
    Soulless
    Book 1 in the series:Parasol Protectorate

    Soulless - Parasol Protectorate by Gail Carriger
    Save:

    Zany, charming, and bursting with wit - "Soulless" is a genre-blending, escapist joyride perfect for those wanting laughs, banter, and a unique Victorian fantasy spin. Not heavy on steampunk, but heavy on fun!

    In the book "Soulless" by Gail Carriger, readers are transported to an alternate Victorian England where supernatural beings like vampires and werewolves are accepted members of society. The protagonist, Alexia Tarabotti, is a unique character who is soulless, meaning she can neutralize supernatural abilities by touch. The story follows Alexia's adventures as she inadvertently kills a vampire and is drawn into investigating the supernatural occurrences in her society, leading her to partner with the brash and handsome werewolf leader, Lord Maccon. The plot is filled with mystery, humor, witty dialogue, and a touch of romance, set against a backdrop of steampunk elements and a Victorian London filled with paranormal intrigue.

    The writing style of "Soulless" is described as witty, engaging, and fast-paced, with a blend of fantasy, steampunk, and romantic elements. The characters, especially the strong and sassy heroine Alexia, are praised for their depth, humor, and chemistry, making the story a delightful mix of comedy of manners, urban fantasy, and romance with a modern and feminine twist.

    Miss Alexia Tarabotti was not enjoying her evening. Private balls were never more than middling amusements for spinsters, and Miss Tarabotti was not the kind of spinster who could garner even that muc...
    2009
    387 pages

  10. #10

    The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
    Save:

    An enchanting, lushly written family saga with heart, history, and just the right dose of magic - a modern classic for lovers of character-driven, immersive tales. Challenging in spots, but so worth it!

    'The House of the Spirits' by Isabel Allende is an epic tale spanning three generations of the Trueba family, set against the backdrop of politically turbulent times in Latin America. The story revolves around the strong women of the family, their struggles for independence, and their interconnected lives filled with secrets, seduction, revenge, and forgiveness. Allende weaves magical realism into the narrative, creating a captivating journey of imagery and family ties, while exploring themes of love, power, politics, and the impact of historical events on personal lives.

    The book delves into the lives of the Trueba family members, showcasing their complex relationships, personal growth, and the interplay between practicality and spirituality. Allende's vivid and descriptive writing style brings the characters to life, making the reader feel the importance of family in Latin American culture. Through a blend of magical realism and historical facts, the author creates a compelling narrative that explores themes of feminism, political upheaval, and the power of forgiveness.

    Barrabás came to us by sea, the child Clara wrote in her delicate calligraphy. She was already in the habit of writing down important matters, and afterward, when she was mute, she also recorded trivi...
    1982
    483 pages

Page 1 of 2Next Page