Books Like...

The Bellwether Revivals by Benjamin Wood follows the story of Oscar Lowe, a care assistant who becomes entangled with the Bellwether family, particularly with Iris and her enigmatic brother, Eden. Eden believes he can heal people through music, leading to a series of events that spiral out of control. Set in the gothic atmosphere of Cambridge, the novel seamlessly weaves together the lives of the characters, delving into themes of madness, genius, and the power of music. The story is filled with mystery, psychological suspense, and a touch of romance, all wrapped in a beautifully written narrative that keeps readers engaged until the heart-wrenching end.

Set at a private girls' high school in the Adirondacks, 'The Lake of Dead Languages' follows Jane Hudson, a Latin teacher who returns to her alma mater, where she uncovers buried secrets from her past. The story intertwines past tragedies with present mysteries, creating a suspenseful and gothic atmosphere that keeps readers engaged. The plot revolves around a series of suicides that seem to be repeating, with Jane at the center of the unfolding events, leading to a chilling and intriguing narrative. The writing style is described as atmospheric, with a strong sense of foreboding and suspense that captures the reader's attention.

The Swallows by Lisa Lutz is a gripping novel set at an elite boarding school in New England, where a new teacher, Alex Witt, uncovers disturbing secrets about the toxic masculinity among the students. As the girls decide to fight back against the boys' behavior, a revolution ensues, leading to a high-stakes battle for justice. The narrative is filled with suspense, rage, and compelling characters, offering a thought-provoking exploration of power dynamics and the objectification of women within the school's environment.

If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio is a dark and suspenseful novel set in an eccentric conservatory college where seven fourth-year acting students are deeply immersed in Shakespearean theater. The story unfolds through the memories of Oliver, who has just been released from prison after serving a ten-year sentence for a crime that is gradually revealed. The book delves into the relationships, secrets, and tragedies that unfold among the students, all while incorporating Shakespearean quotes and themes throughout the narrative. The writing style is described as captivating, emotionally arresting, and filled with tension, making the book a thrilling and engrossing read.

'Anthropology of an American Girl' follows the journey of Evie, a young woman transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, navigating through relationships and self-discovery. The writing style of the book is described as compulsively readable, with a focus on moments, feelings, and character development rather than action. The protagonist, Evie, is depicted as a tortured outcast, attracting men with her tragic appearance and engaging in relationships that define her journey through high school, college, and post-college life.

'The Little Friend' by Donna Tartt opens with the horrific murder of a little boy named Robin Cleve Dufresnes in his own front yard in Alexandria, Mississippi. Twelve years later, his younger sister Harriet sets out to unmask his killer, aided by her friend Hely. The story follows Harriet's journey as she delves into her family's history of loss, crossing the town's rigid lines of race and caste. Despite the intriguing mystery at its core, the book meanders through a long, dark, melancholy tale set in a small Mississippi town during a hot summer, filled with woe, snakes, bugs, drugs, and grief.

The plot of 'The Little Friend' is centered around Harriet's determination to solve the mystery of her brother's murder, leading her and Hely into troubles far beyond their years. The story explores larger issues such as poverty, prejudice, deception, drugs, and death, all intertwined with the complexities of Harriet's family life and the dark past of the town.

'The Basic Eight' by Daniel Handler is a darkly humorous novel that follows Flannery Culp and her group of friends, known as The Basic Eight, as they navigate the complexities of high school life. The story is told through Flannery's journal entries, revealing a tale of teenage rebellion, murder, and the unraveling of secrets. Handler's writing style is described as witty, sharp, and engaging, with a unique structure that includes vocabulary words and study questions after each entry, adding depth to the narrative.

These Violent Delights by Micah Nemerever is a dark and intense novel that follows the complex and twisted relationship between two young men, Paul and Julian. The story is set in 1970s Pittsburgh and delves into the deepening bond between Paul, a shy and artistic working-class student, and Julian, a wealthy and charismatic individual. As their friendship evolves into a passionate love affair, it spirals into obsession and violence, leading to a series of destructive events. The narrative unfolds through Paul's perspective, offering a raw and intimate portrayal of their tumultuous relationship and the psychological turmoil they both experience.

The novel is praised for its beautifully wicked prose, compelling character development, and the atmospheric content that immerses readers into the story. It explores themes of love, obsession, identity, and the destructive nature of relationships, culminating in a gripping and harrowing narrative that delves into the depths of human emotions and complexities. These Violent Delights is a psychological thriller that intricately weaves together elements of suspense, darkness, and profound character dynamics, creating a haunting and unforgettable reading experience.

Black Chalk by Christopher J. Yates is a psychological thriller that revolves around six college friends who create a high-stakes game of consequences during their time at Oxford University. The narrative switches between the present day and their college days, exploring the escalating psychological challenges and consequences faced by the characters. The book delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, and the long-term impacts of youthful recklessness, all while keeping readers engaged with its intricate plot and alternating viewpoints.

'Edinburgh' by Alexander Chee tells the story of Aphias Zhe Fee, a Korean boy growing up in Maine who faces sexual abuse by his choral teacher. The novel explores themes of homosexuality, music, art, guilt, grief, and friendship through detailed prose and sensitive storytelling. Chee's writing style is described as poetic, emotional, and purposeful, with a focus on light, music, and fire that give luminescence to the narrative.