Books Like...
If you liked Pestilence, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
A unique, devastating, and beautifully written dark fantasy romance that isn't for the faint of heart, but will deeply move those ready for a challenging, emotional journey.
'Lan of the Beautiful Dead' by R. Lee Smith is a post-apocalyptic fantasy novel that follows the story of Lan, a sassy and foul-mouthed young woman, who ventures into Haven to meet Azrael, the Master and Lord of Earth. Despite Azrael's unconventional appearance and dark past, Lan forms a complex relationship with him, leading to unexpected twists and turns in the plot. The book delves into themes of love, morality, and personal growth, all while offering a unique and detailed world-building experience. The writing style is described as fantastic, emotional, and rich in character development, with a mix of romance, philosophy, and epic storytelling.
Lan got out, moving carefully along the van’s armored roof and trying not to look at the Eaters clambering below her. They hadn’t seen many on the drive, but there were always Eaters at the towns and...October 2015•751 pages - #2
Epic, hilarious, and spicy - a slow-burn fantasy romance that's a must-try for fans of big adventures, big feelings, and banter-filled relationships. Not perfect for everyone, but a cult favorite for a reason!
'Bound to the Battle God' follows the journey of Faith, a smart and practical woman who accidentally gets sucked into a portal to another realm and ends up being sold as a sacrifice to the God of War. However, things take a surprising turn when the God of War, Aron, asks for a volunteer to be his mortal anchor, leading Faith to step up. Together, Faith and Aron embark on a twisty and convoluted road to help Aron ascend back to his rightful place in the pantheon of gods. The story is set in a fantasy medieval-style landscape where the gods have been cast out of their version of heaven and must battle for dominance before ascending back to the aether.
The author, Ruby Dixon, weaves a tale filled with epic fantasy battles, complex characters, and a slow-burn romance between Faith and Aron. is praised for its phenomenal world-building, mix of mythologies, and fully fleshed-out characters, making it a captivating and engaging read that keeps readers hooked till the end.
I wake up in the middle of the night, alert for no reason at all. My ears strain, trying to make out sound. There's only the distant rumble of thunder, an oncoming storm. I sit up and listen for voice...June 2019•661 pages - #3
Polarizing but addictive! If you love messy, high-drama dystopian romance and aren't too fussed about realism, dive in. If you need your world-building water-tight, you might want to skip it.
The Queen of All That Dies portrays a post-apocalyptic world divided by a nuclear war, where the protagonist, Serenity Freeman, finds herself in a bleak existence underground. The story revolves around Serenity, an ambassador's daughter, who is thrust into a high-stakes political negotiation with King Lazuli. Despite the serious backdrop of a ravaged world, the book intertwines elements of cheesy romance, intrigue, and questionable character development. The author's writing style is criticized for lacking depth and research, especially evident in the unrealistic portrayal of nuclear fallout and the characters' reactions to catastrophic events.
Chapter 1 Serenity I can barely remember a time before the war. The green, orderly lawns, the rows of houses, the neatly assigned shelves of food. That quest for perfection was the first thing to go w...January 2015•326 pages - #4
A steamy, addictive fantasy romance with sirens and fae, but world-building and side character depth could be stronger. If you crave romance-forward fantasy and can overlook some clichés, this is a fan favorite for good reason.
Rhapsodic by Laura Thalassa is a paranormal romance novel that follows the story of Callie, a Siren who makes a deal with the enigmatic Bargainer to clean up a mess in her past. The book alternates between past and present, unraveling layers of emotions and mysteries as Callie navigates her complicated relationship with the Bargainer. Set in California and the Otherworld, the story is fast-paced, mysterious, and sexy, with well-developed characters and a touch of eerie elements. The writing style includes witty banter, a mix of darkness and heroism in characters, and focuses on relationship development over plot, creating a captivating and enchanting tale.
Chapter 1 Present A file folder drops to the desk in front of me. “You’ve got mail, bitch.” I lower my mug of steaming coffee from my mouth, my eyes flicking up from my laptop. Temperance “Temper” Dar...November 2016•422 pages - #5
A deliciously dark circus fantasy with a one-of-a-kind villain romance - creepy, clever, and spicy (eventually!). Read if you love your love interests unhinged and your plots drenched in gothic atmosphere.
Step right up to the twisted world of 'The Contortionist' in the 'Harrow Faire' series by Kathryn Ann Kingsley. This dark and unique tale follows Cora, a young woman living a mundane life plagued by chronic pain until a mysterious circus reopens in town, bringing with it a cast of eccentric characters and a villainous hero named Simon. As Cora's world is turned upside down, she finds herself entangled in a dark and seductive romance with Simon, exploring themes of love, danger, and the supernatural. The story unfolds with a slow burn, captivating the reader with vivid descriptions, intriguing plot twists, and a touch of macabre that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Kathryn Ann Kingsley weaves a spellbinding narrative in 'The Contortionist', blending elements of horror, romance, and fantasy into a mesmerizing tale that delves into the depths of human nature. Through Cora's eyes, readers are drawn into a world filled with bright lights, haunting sounds, and a sense of foreboding that sets the stage for a grand adventure. With a cast of complex characters, including the enigmatic Simon and a diverse array of circus performers, the story unfolds with a perfect mix of darkness and light, keeping readers enthralled from start to finish.
The dilapidated towers of wood scaffolding stabbed at the sky like bony fingers reaching out of the dirt. Broken and burnt bulbs sat in rusted sockets and had not illuminated the night sky in decades....September 2020•272 pages - #6
Wickedly entertaining and shockingly steamy, Lothaire is a quintessential “love him or hate him” read - a must for IAD fans and anyone craving a sharp-edged paranormal romance, but not for readers seeking a gentle or straightforward love story.
Lothaire is the captivating story of the powerful vampire Lothaire who finds his Bride, a goddess of death trapped in the body of a mortal woman named Elizabeth Pierce. As Lothaire schemes to rid Elizabeth of her soul and allow the goddess to take over, their tumultuous relationship unfolds with intense chemistry and emotional depth. The book delves into Lothaire's dark past, his complex personality, and his undeniable attraction to Elizabeth, creating a gripping tale of romance, suspense, and supernatural intrigue. Kresley Cole's writing style expertly weaves together humor, passion, and intricate world-building, making Lothaire a standout installment in the 'Immortals After Dark' series.
“No!” Ellie squirmed against her bonds on the gurney, pulling taut the electrodes dotting her chest. With each of her frantic heartbeats, the nearby EKG monitor spiked. The IV tubes snaking from each...2012•559 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Immortals After Dark ) - #7
A sprawling, brilliant, gut-punch of a sci-fi saga with a unique romance - unforgettable, disturbing, and definitely not for the faint of heart. Read the content warnings first!
'The Last Hour of Gann' by R. Lee Smith is a lengthy science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic world with elements of romance and redemption. The story follows a group of survivors, including the practical and determined Amber, who crash-land on an alien planet and must navigate a new society led by the lizardman Meoraq. The book delves into themes of survival, clash of cultures, and the complexities of relationships amidst graphic scenes of violence and sexual content.
The eviction notice was hanging on the door when they got back from the hospital. The time stamp said 1:27 am, six minutes after Mary Shelley Bierce’s official time of death, an hour and twenty-eight...September 2013•704 pages - #8
A satisfying, trope-filled post-apocalyptic romance that's heavy on character intimacy and light on doom and gloom. Great for those craving comfort with their angst, but might not wow readers looking for something grittier or more original.
In a post-apocalyptic world, "Last Light" by Claire Kent follows Layne, a young woman who embarks on a journey with Travis, a divorced man, to deliver a message to their old town. As they navigate the chaos and dangers of their surroundings, a slow-burn romance develops between the two characters, highlighting themes of survival, love, and resilience. The story beautifully captures the emotional depth of the characters amidst the harsh realities of their environment, emphasizing the power of human connection in the face of adversity.
He was our local mechanic, and when I was sixteen I took my car to his garage for repairs and maintenance. He always smelled like oil and cigarettes, and he invariably needed to shave. He never smiled...November 2019•320 pages - #9
A fun, witty magical romance with sizzling tension and a twisty plot - perfect if you love your fantasy with humor, spice, and don’t mind a good cliffhanger. Get ready to binge…and then impatiently await the sequel!
Selene Bowers is a young witch with a unique flaw - she constantly loses her memories with each spell she casts. In an attempt to join a prestigious coven, she embarks on a magical quest to find a familiar. The book, 'Bewitched', follows Selene's journey as she accidentally unleashes an ancient being from a tomb who believes she is his wife. The plot is filled with humor, action, and a touch of romance as Selene navigates her complicated life while trying to solve a mysterious whodunnit involving the murder of witches.
April 2023•459 pages - #10
A fun, slow-burn fantasy romance with steamy moments, snappy banter, and a refreshingly flawed hero. It shines brightest for those who love immersive worldbuilding, but may feel long-winded to some. Check it out if you want a slightly unconventional God of Death romance!
'Sworn to the Shadow God' is a fantasy romance novel in the 'Aspect and Anchor' series by Ruby Dixon. The story follows Maxine 'Max' Chavez, a kindhearted and loyal woman, who finds herself pulled into a chaotic medieval land where she meets Rhagos, the shadow lord or 'Death.' The book is written from Max's point of view, providing insight into her optimistic and stubborn nature, as well as her evolving relationship with Rhagos. Throughout the story, the author weaves in elements of world-building, history, and character development, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.
The banter between Max and Rhagos, the God of Death, adds humor and depth to their interactions, making their dynamic engaging and relatable. As the plot unfolds, readers witness Max's influence on Rhagos, inspiring him to become a better man and challenging his preconceived notions. With elements of mystery, romance, and adventure, 'Sworn to the Shadow God' offers a blend of familiar tropes and unique storytelling that keeps readers entertained and invested in the characters' journey.
“I’ll have it to you before then, I promise,” I told him, faking a bright smile before I turned and calmly walked to the far end of the office floor, where the coffee station was set up. I’d sort of f...February 2020•645 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Aspect and Anchor )











