Books Like...

Poison Study follows the story of Yelena, a young woman sentenced to death for murder but given a second chance to become the Commander's food taster in a world full of magic and danger. The plot revolves around Yelena's training in poison detection, self-defense, and her struggles with her past and developing magical powers, all set against a backdrop of political intrigue and forbidden magic.

The writing style of Poison Study is praised for its engaging first-person narration, well-developed characters, and intricate world-building. The protagonist, Yelena, is portrayed as a strong and relatable character who navigates a complex society under martial law, facing betrayal, romance, and suspense as she strives to survive and uncover the mysteries surrounding her new role as the food taster.

"Alanna: The First Adventure" follows the story of Alanna, a young girl who disguises herself as a boy to become a knight in a world where women are not allowed to pursue such a path. The book takes the reader through Alanna's struggles, challenges, and triumphs as she navigates the training and expectations of knighthood while keeping her true identity hidden. The plot unfolds with a mix of adventure, self-discovery, and determination, drawing readers into a world of medieval fantasy filled with strong female characters and themes of identity and perseverance.

The writing style of "Alanna: The First Adventure" is described as engaging, captivating, and suitable for a younger audience. The book is praised for its fast-paced narrative, well-fleshed-out characters, and vivid world-building that immerses readers into the realm of Tortall. The story balances elements of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age themes, offering a tale of empowerment and courage as Alanna strives to break gender norms and follow her dreams.

In "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas, readers are introduced to Celaena Sardothian, a skilled assassin who is given the opportunity to compete in a tournament to become the King's Champion and gain her freedom. The book follows Celaena's journey as she navigates the challenges of the competition, forms unexpected friendships, and uncovers mysterious murders that threaten her life. The writing style is described as vivid, well-written, and engaging, with a mix of action-packed scenes, intriguing characters, and a compelling murder mystery that keeps readers craving for more.

An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir is a YA fantasy novel that follows the intertwined stories of Laia and Elias in a society divided between the Martials and Scholars. Laia, a spy for the resistance inside the Martial Empire's military academy, is determined to save her brother from prison, while Elias, the academy's top soldier, seeks freedom from his oppressive mother and their empire. The alternating perspectives of Laia and Elias provide insight into their struggles, moral dilemmas, and growing connection, set against a backdrop of brutal challenges, political intrigue, and a society filled with complex characters.

Sabriel follows the journey of a young woman who unexpectedly inherits her father's title as Abhorsen, a powerful necromancer, and embarks on a quest that takes her across the wall into another world. The book delves into a dark and magical Old Kingdom where Sabriel must rescue her father from the Land of the Dead while battling against evil forces trying to destroy the balance of the realm. The narrative weaves intricate world-building, necromancy, and a band of loyal companions, creating a suspenseful and engaging story filled with vivid descriptions of the magical realm and its inhabitants.

The writing style of Sabriel is praised for its dark and cold atmosphere, with the protagonist navigating through desperate situations in the Old Kingdom and Death itself. The book introduces a unique magical system involving bells and a necromancer's duty to lay the dead to rest, all while exploring themes of family legacy, self-discovery, and the struggle between good and evil in a fantasy setting that captivates readers with its originality and depth.

In "Shadow and Bone" by Leigh Bardugo, readers are introduced to Alina Starkov and her best friend Mal, who are orphaned and drafted into the army. When Alina discovers she has a special gift marking her as a Grisha, she is sent to be groomed by the Darkling, the leader of an elite security branch. As Alina's powers awaken, she finds herself entangled in danger and intrigue, pining for her lost friend Mal. The story follows Alina's journey as she navigates a world filled with magic, betrayal, and romance, set in a fantasyland based on Russia, with a touch of forbidden love and self-discovery.

In 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black, the story follows Jude and her sisters who are taken to Faerie after witnessing their parents' murder. Set in a world of magic and intrigue, Jude navigates the dangerous court as she strives for power and a place among the faerie lords and ladies. With twists and turns, the book keeps readers engaged with its lush descriptions and complex characters.

The book is a dark fantasy tale filled with revenge, drama, courtly intrigue, and magic. Readers are introduced to a world where danger and betrayal lurk around every corner, as Jude faces challenges and choices that will impact not only her family but the entire kingdom of Faerie.

'Cinder' in the series 'The Lunar Chronicles' by Marissa Meyer is a futuristic retelling of the classic Cinderella story with a unique twist. The protagonist, Cinder, is a cyborg mechanic living in New Beijing where she is treated as an outcast. As she navigates her life repairing androids and hiding her true identity, she gets entangled in intergalactic politics involving a deadly plague, an evil queen, and a charming prince. The story combines elements of science fiction, political intrigue, and romance, creating a complex and engaging narrative that keeps readers hooked from the very beginning.

'Cinder' stands out for its originality and creativity in blending the traditional Cinderella tale with futuristic technology, cyborgs, and extraterrestrial threats. The writing style is praised for its immersive world-building, strong character development, and a compelling storyline that offers unexpected twists and turns. Readers appreciate the depth of the characters, particularly Cinder, who is portrayed as a strong and resourceful heroine with a mysterious past, making the book a refreshing take on a familiar fairy tale.

The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a novel set in an alternate world where the Valorians have conquered and enslaved the Herrani. The story revolves around Kestrel, the Valorians general's daughter, and her slave, Arin, as they navigate a growing bond amidst secrets and betrayal. The plot centers around a secret plan and uprising of slaves, with elements of politics, intrigue, and secrets intertwined with a slow-burning development and lush depictions of society life and the harsh realities of slavery.

Blue, a non-psychic girl from a family of psychics, gets entangled in a quest with a group of boys from a prestigious school to find a mystical spot tied to a Welsh king named Owen Glendower. The story is set in Henrietta, Virginia, and is narrated by four main characters as they explore the realms of magic and mystery surrounding ley lines and psychic energy. The book combines elements of fantasy and YA without relying on monsters or excessive violence, focusing instead on the characters' development and their pursuit of the mystical king.