Books Like...

Perfume and Pain by Anna Dorn is a sharp and humorous satire, following the chaotic life of Astrid Dahl, a problematic lesbian author in Los Angeles. After a public controversy puts her career in jeopardy, she navigates the treacherous waters of her personal and professional life, battling addiction and toxic relationships while trying to regain her place in the literary world. Along the way, she becomes entangled with a PhD student and a famous actress, creating a whirlwind of drama and deeply flawed interactions.

The writing style is fast-paced and engaging, filled with witty dialogue and relatable inner thoughts that often lean towards the cringeworthy. Dorn's characters, especially Astrid, are unapologetically messy and sometimes unlikeable, which makes their journey both entertaining and thought-provoking. The book challenges conventional portrayals of queer identities, blending humor with darker themes, and leaves readers both laughing and reflecting on the complexities of modern lesbian life.

'Sirens & Muses' by Antonia Angress follows the lives of four central characters - Louisa, Karina, Preston, and Robert - who are all artists connected in their small world of art school and the art scene. The narrative delves into their relationships, struggles, and growth as artists, exploring themes of art creation, personal growth, and the complexities of the art world. The story transitions from their time in art school to their lives as struggling artists in New York City, capturing the challenges and dynamics of their artistic journeys.

The writing style of 'Sirens & Muses' is characterized by its multiple points of view, allowing readers to delve equally into the lives and perspectives of the central characters. offers a brooding, tender, and sharp atmosphere that is fitting for a sapphic dark academia novel, with descriptions of art, history, protests, and character relationships that slowly unravel against the backdrop of the art world.

Carol by Patricia Highsmith is a classic lesbian romance novel set in the 1950s, following the story of a shopgirl named Therese who falls in love with a married woman named Carol. The book explores themes of love, obsession, and societal expectations, presenting a realistic and happy ending for the main characters. Highsmith's writing style is described as beautifully written, atmospheric, and frank about same-sex attraction, offering a refreshing approach to lesbian relationships in literature.

The novel "Pizza Girl" by Jean Kyoung Frazier follows the story of an 18-year-old pregnant pizza delivery girl who becomes obsessed with a woman named Jenny. Despite the heavy topics of addiction, pregnancy, and loneliness, the book manages to keep a light and quick pace, exploring themes of love, friendship, and modern ennui. The protagonist's internal monologue is lathered with intimate details, making the reader feel overwhelmed by her emotions as she navigates through a tumultuous period in her life.

The book delves into the protagonist's struggles with alcoholism, her complicated relationships with her mother and boyfriend, and her growing fixation on Jenny. Frazier's writing style is bold, honest, and unapologetic, portraying a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the protagonist's emotions and experiences as she grapples with desire, depression, and mental illness.

Bath Haus by P.J. Vernon is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complex relationship between Nathan and Oliver. The plot unravels as Oliver's visit to a bathhouse for a casual encounter turns into a nightmarish experience when he realizes his anonymous partner is out to kill him. As the story progresses, the tension escalates, leading to a thrilling cat-and-mouse game filled with deceit, betrayal, and terror. The narrative alternates between the perspectives of the two protagonists, providing insights into their pasts, their struggles, and the toxic dynamics of their relationship. Vernon's writing style is captivating, with alternating first-person POVs adding depth to the characters and creating a white-knuckle reading experience.

'Codename Villanelle' by Luke Jennings is a spy thriller that follows the story of an emotionless professional assassin named Villanelle, who was once a poor, motherless Russian girl named Oksana. The plot delves into Villanelle's exotic assignments and her transformation into a ruthless killer. The writing style is described as having exquisite imagery, detailed descriptions, and elegant yet raw character interactions that bring the characters to life.

"The Miseducation of Cameron Post" by Emily M. Danforth is a coming-of-age novel set in late 80s, early 90s Montana, following the life of Cameron Post as she navigates her nascent sexuality after being sent to gay conversion therapy by her evangelical Christian guardian. The book delves into Cameron's struggles with her identity, relationships, and the complex issues surrounding love, friendship, loss, and self-acceptance in a rural town, all while exploring themes of grief, guilt, religion, and the journey of self-discovery.

The novel is characterized by its gritty and beautiful writing style, with real poetry in the final pages as Cameron confronts her past and contemplates her true self. Danforth's storytelling skillfully transports readers into Cameron's world, allowing them to relate to her struggles and feelings of isolation, while also incorporating elements of humor, growing self-knowledge, and honest introspection throughout the narrative.

Sputnik Sweetheart by Haruki Murakami is a novel that delves into themes of love, loss, and unrequited feelings. The story follows the protagonist Sumire as she falls in love with a woman and confides in her best friend K, who is secretly in love with her. The narrative explores the complexities of relationships, dreams, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. Murakami's writing style in this book is described as a delicate examination of identity and humanity, with elements of magic realism and a touch of mystery.

Milk Fed by Melissa Broder is a novel that delves into the complex relationship between food, love, and identity. The story follows Rachel, a woman with a restrictive eating disorder, who begins to explore a newfound sense of freedom and self-acceptance when she meets Miriam, an Orthodox Jewish woman. Their lesbian relationship serves as a catalyst for Rachel to embrace her body and soul, while also questioning elements of her religion and cultural background. The book is described as a mix of humor, wit, and insightful observations on women, daughterhood, and the struggles of forming one's own identity.

The narrative of Milk Fed is filled with graphic details, sharp writing, and a blend of cultural, religious, and nourishment-related themes. Through Rachel's journey of self-discovery and indulgence, the novel explores themes of desire, intimacy, and the importance of breaking societal and personal boundaries. The book offers a unique and sometimes controversial perspective on relationships, self-image, and the complexities of human connection.

'Big Swiss' by Jen Beagin follows a therapist's transcriber named Greta as she breaks the fourth wall and engages in an affair with one of the people in therapy, Hudson. The story is filled with quirky elements like bees in the house, purple-haired geriatrics, and ultra Trump supporters. Despite some readers feeling let down by the lack of a satisfying ending, the book is praised for its humor, realness, and the way characters deal with difficult situations.