Books Like...

The Enterprise of Death by Jesse Bullington is a historical fantasy novel set during the Spanish Inquisition, following the story of Awa, a young necromancer trying to rid herself of a curse put upon her by her teacher. The book mixes elements of magic, grotesque scenes, and dark humor to tell a tale of adventure, friendship, and survival in a brutal and unforgiving world. The plot unfolds with a mix of lurching unevenness, combining themes of necromancy, cannibalism, necrophilia, and the struggles of the protagonist against societal prejudices and supernatural threats.

The Sad Tale of the Brothers Grossbart by Jesse Bullington is a dark and graphic story set in medieval Europe, following the repulsive and brutal Grossbart brothers on their journey of grave robbing and encountering supernatural entities. The book delves into themes of violence, mayhem, and gore, showcasing the brothers' profane and foul nature as they travel to Gyptland in search of treasure, all while displaying a twisted sense of humor and unique storytelling style.

Throughout the narrative, readers are introduced to a cast of disturbing characters, including the Grossbart brothers themselves, as well as demons, monsters, and corrupt individuals, all set against a backdrop of historical events and religious turmoil. The writing style of the book is described as detailed, realistic, and fantastical, with a touch of dark humor that adds an element of sick entertainment to the grim and grotesque tale.

The novella "Hellmouth" by Giles Kristian follows Galien, an excommunicated knight leading a band of mercenaries in the Holy Roman Empire as they are hired by Cardinal Cesarini to hunt a heretic. However, their mission takes a dark turn as they find themselves entangled in a supernatural horror story that challenges their beliefs and confronts them with their own sins and violence. The writing style is described as evocative, filled with vivid imagery, creeping dread, black humor, and quality horror, all set against a medieval backdrop in the Czech Republic wilderness.

In "Company of Liars" by Karen Maitland, the story unfolds during the outbreak of the Plague in England, following a group of nine strangers led by an elderly peddler named Camelot as they journey through the country to escape the pestilence. Each character has a dark secret that is gradually revealed, intertwining their lives and creating a sense of mystery and suspense. The narrative is rich in historical details, superstitions, and occult references, capturing the essence of the Middle Ages and the dangers of that era.

The book is a blend of historical fiction, mystery, horror, and fantasy elements, with a narrative reminiscent of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. As the characters navigate through medieval England, facing religious intolerance, superstitions, and the threat of the Plague, the story delves into themes of deception, secrets, and survival. The writing style is described as beautifully crafted, compelling, and haunting, drawing readers into a world where reality and fantasy intertwine, creating a gripping tale of mistrust, friendship, and the unknown.

'Hollow' by B Catling is a genre-fusing work of imaginative fiction that takes readers on a mystical journey through a world filled with unforgettable scenes and mordant humor. The plot involves a group of mercenaries and knights on a mission to deliver a new oracle to a mysterious monastery, encountering unsettling and sinister elements along the way. Catling's writing style is described as intricate yet beautiful, drawing readers into a dark yet fantastically beautiful world reminiscent of a surrealist painting.

Pilgrim: A Medieval Horror by Mitchell Luthi is an epic historical novel set during the 12th century Crusades, following a diverse group of crusaders trying to transport a holy relic from Jerusalem. Their journey soon spirals into a series of harrowing encounters in a strange, otherworldly landscape, drawing heavily from Christian, Islamic, and pre-Islamic mythologies. The book is characterized by its rich world-building and layered prose, with the first 100 pages setting the stage before the real action begins.

Luthi's writing style blends vivid imagery with deep theological and philosophical explorations, making the characters feel authentic and multi-dimensional. Readers can expect chilling and grotesque moments, occasionally cinematic in their presentation. While the narrative may feel slow at times, especially in the second act, those who persist will find a rewarding tale filled with moral complexities and intriguing twists, culminating in a mix of horror and deep contemplation.

The Daughters' War by Christopher Buehlman is a gripping tale set in a world ravaged by war with goblins. The story focuses on Galva dom Braga, a soldier who rises from an inexperienced fighter to a notable warrior, all while grappling with profound themes like love, mortality, and the brutality of conflict. Despite being a prequel to The Blacktongue Thief, it has a unique depth and intensity, portraying the harsh realities of life and death. The narrative flows with a poetic quality, making the violence and sorrow it depicts haunting yet beautiful.

Buehlman's writing style blends relatable human experiences with the fantasy genre, crafting a richly detailed world that feels both tragic and compelling. While some readers might find the main character a bit dry, Buehlman skillfully uses her perspective to explore the emotional weight of war and survival. His ability to create real, believable characters allows readers to connect deeply with their struggles. Overall, The Daughters' War is an intense, emotional journey that leaves a lasting impression, showcasing Buehlman's talent in weaving brutal realism with lyrical prose.

"Eaters of the Dead" by Michael Crichton is a unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy, drawing inspiration from the Anglo-Saxon Beowulf saga and the real-life accounts of an Arab traveler who encountered Vikings. The book takes readers on a journey through 10th-century Scandinavia, where the protagonist, Ibn Fadlan, finds himself embroiled in a Viking quest to vanquish a legendary monster. Crichton's writing style seamlessly weaves together elements of adventure, historical accuracy, and cultural exploration, creating a riveting tale that challenges perceptions of the Viking way of life.

The narrative of "Eaters of the Dead" is both educational and entertaining, offering readers a fresh perspective on Viking culture and customs. Through the eyes of Ibn Fadlan, the story delves into themes of culture shock, heroism, and the clash of civilizations, culminating in a thrilling reimagining of the Beowulf legend. Crichton's meticulous research and attention to detail shine through in his writing, providing a rich tapestry of historical context that immerses readers in a world of mystery, magic, and ancient battles.

The Starving Saints by Caitlin Starling is a gripping medieval horror novel set in a besieged castle. The story follows three women whose lives intertwine as they face a dire food shortage and the arrival of supernatural beings that complicate their survival. Starling's writing is rich and immersive, creating an atmospheric experience that feels both vivid and hallucinatory. The prose is dense and demands attention, drawing the reader into the characters' psychological turmoil and the escalating horror surrounding them.

In 'Trail of Lightning' by Rebecca Roanhorse, readers are transported to a post-apocalyptic world where the Navajo reservation, now known as Dinétah, has been reborn after a climate apocalypse. The story follows Maggie Hoskie, a Dinétah monster hunter trained by an immortal being. As she navigates a world filled with gods, heroes, and monsters, Maggie faces personal struggles and battles against supernatural threats. The book is a unique blend of urban fantasy and Native American mythology, with a focus on strong character development and a plot filled with unexpected twists and betrayals.

The writing style in 'Trail of Lightning' is fast-paced and engaging, with deep emotions and complex characters that resonate with readers. The book delves into themes of survival, identity, and the impact of trauma, all set against a backdrop of a richly imagined world where magic, monsters, and ancient legends come to life. Rebecca Roanhorse's storytelling weaves together elements of fantasy, mythology, and post-apocalyptic landscapes to create a gripping tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.