Books Like...

"Between Two Fires" by Christopher Buehlman is a dark fantasy set in 14th century France during the devastating Black Death. The story follows an orphaned young girl, a fallen knight, and an alcoholic priest as they navigate a world filled with pestilence, monsters, and supernatural forces. The plot weaves together elements of horror, historical fiction, and religious themes, creating a tale of redemption, hope, and the battle between good and evil.

The book is praised for its vivid and atmospheric storytelling, blending gritty realism with high fantasy elements. Readers commend Buehlman's ability to create engaging characters, compelling relationships, and haunting scenes that delve deep into the darkness of the human heart and the horrors of the plague-ridden landscape.

Mongrels by Stephen Graham Jones is a coming-of-age tale with a unique twist, following the life of a young boy raised by werewolf relatives as they navigate a nomadic existence across the southern United States. The story delves into the subculture and history of shapeshifters, blending traditional werewolf lore with a modern narrative style that keeps the reader engaged and guessing. Through a series of interconnected stories, the book explores themes of family, identity, and the blurred lines between human and animal behavior, all while offering a fresh and unpredictable take on the werewolf legend.

The writing style of Mongrels is described as excellent, with a perfect balance between storytelling and thematic exploration. The book is praised for its engaging characters, heartwarming moments, and a touch of humor that contrasts with the darker aspects of the plot. Readers appreciate the author's ability to subvert traditional werewolf tropes and create a narrative that is both captivating and thought-provoking, making it a standout in the genre of coming-of-age stories.

Set during World War II, 'The Wolf's Hour' follows the story of Michael Gallatin, an operative with lycanthropic abilities working behind enemy lines to complete missions and rescue people. The novel seamlessly blends horror, espionage, and adventure, with flashbacks revealing Michael's origin story as a werewolf. The plot involves a race against time to thwart a Nazi plot and prevent the derailing of the Allied invasion during World War II, all while exploring themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the power of love.

'Cycle of the Werewolf' by Stephen King is a short novel that follows the small town of Tarker Mills as it grapples with a werewolf terrorizing its residents each month. The story is divided into 12 chapters, one for each month of the year, with the full moon marking the werewolf attacks. The book combines text with illustrations, creating a unique reading experience that showcases the horror of the situation. The protagonist, a young boy named Marty Coslaw, becomes an unlikely hero in the town's fight against the werewolf, while the identity of the villain remains a mystery until the end. The writing style is described as concise, evoking a sense of terror and tension within the small town setting.

Revelator by Daryl Gregory is a Southern Gothic horror novel set in the backwoods of Tennessee during the 1930s and 40s. The story follows Stella, a female bootlegger, who returns to her family's secluded mountain home after a tragic incident. There, she encounters a mysterious god named Ghostdaddy who communicates through chosen daughters known as Revelators. As Stella navigates family secrets, religious fanaticism, and the looming threat of losing their land to a national park, she must protect a young girl named Sunny from the same fate she endured. The dual timelines and intricate family relationships gradually reveal the dark and unsettling truths hidden in the cave where the god resides.

Set in the small community of Babylon in the Florida panhandle near the Styx River, 'Cold Moon Over Babylon' by Michael McDowell is a chilling Gothic horror novel that unfolds a tale of supernatural revenge after a young girl named Margaret is murdered. The story delves into the lives of the Larkin family, particularly Grandma Evelyn, Jerry, and Margaret, who are trying to make ends meet by selling blueberries at the local market. As the mysterious murders unfold, an evil presence makes itself known, seeking justice and retribution, leading to a thrilling combination of crime and horror genres. McDowell's writing style intricately weaves together the elements of small-town life, sudden deaths, shocking violence, and supernatural occurrences, creating a vivid and textured narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

'The Lesser Dead' by Christopher Buehlman is a vampire tale set in 1978 New York City, following the story of Joey Peacock, who appears as a teenager but is actually in his 50s. Joey and his vampire pack live in the tunnels under the city, surviving by feeding on victims and using their ability to glamour. The arrival of young children vampires disrupts their harmony, leading to a battle for dominance. is praised for its period portrayal, including 1970s culture, and the compelling backstories of the vampire characters.

'The Werewolf of Paris' by Guy Endore is a fascinating novel that tells the tragic story of Bertrand, who was born a werewolf. Set during the turmoil of the German invasion of 19th century Paris, the book offers a study in human nature interlaced with social commentary and historical backdrop. The narrative is well-researched, epic in scope, and written with wit, making it a subversive tale with elements of kink and dark humor.

The story follows Bertrand's life, from his violent conception to his struggles with lycanthropy and the attempts to find a cure. The novel delves into themes of human nature, societal norms, and the consequences of one's actions, all wrapped in a well-written and engaging narrative that showcases the author's skill in storytelling and character development.

The Last Werewolf by Glen Duncan is a dark and gritty tale following Jake Marlowe, the last known werewolf on earth, as he navigates a world filled with vampires, werewolf hunters, and his own existential struggles. The story is told through Jake's journals, delving into his survival instincts, sexual compulsions, and the constant threat to his life. The narrative is a mix of Gothic horror with modern elements, incorporating lush and voluptuous language to describe the protagonist's inner turmoil and external challenges.

The Boatman's Daughter by Andy Davidson is a dark and eerie tale set in the bayou along the Prosper river. The story follows Miranda, the boatman's daughter, who inherits her father's job of running drugs in the bayou. As she navigates the treacherous waters, she encounters crooked law enforcement, witches teaching black arts, and a cast of eccentric and flawed characters. The book blends elements of Slavic folklore with Southern Gothic, creating a heady mix of black magic, crazed preachers, and nightmarish visions. The writing style is described as immersive, atmospheric, and vivid, painting a rich tapestry of the bayous and woodlands.