Books Like...

In 'Until It's Over' by Nicci French, a group of London housemates find themselves entangled in a murder investigation after one of them, Astrid Bell, is linked to multiple murder scenes. The plot unfolds with suspense and tension as readers are taken through the perspectives of different characters, including the killer, revealing intricate relationships and dark secrets within the house.

The book is structured with a compelling narrative that delves into the lives of the house occupants, their connections, and the unfolding mystery surrounding the murders. With a mix of well-developed characters, intricate plot twists, and a dual perspective storytelling approach, 'Until It's Over' keeps readers engaged as they unravel the mystery alongside the characters.

The story of 'A Fatal Inversion' by Barbara Vine unfolds when the bodies of a young woman and a baby are found buried in the grounds of a country house, where a group of young people had spent a summer ten years before. The plot is filled with psychological suspense, interesting characters, and a gradual unwinding of a ten-year-old crime. The setting in the decadent 70s and the character development are highly praised, making the book a gripping and memorable read.

The novel "The Interestings" by Meg Wolitzer follows the lives of a group of friends who meet at a summer art camp in the 1970s and call themselves The Interestings. The story spans several decades, exploring their friendships, ambitions, successes, and struggles as they navigate through life. The book delves into themes of talent, success, jealousy, love, and the lasting impact of formative experiences in teenage years. Wolitzer weaves a complex narrative, capturing the evolution of relationships and the way friendships change over time.

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.

Set in the 1980s on a New England college campus, 'The Rules of Attraction' follows a period in the lives of Lauren, Paul, and Sean who get caught up in a love triangle. The book explores a bisexual love triangle filled with misinformation, misidentity, self-obsession, emotional blackmail, immaturity, substance abuse, and a lack of self-respect among privileged college students. The narrative style shifts between different characters' perspectives, offering insight into their personalities and relationships, often highlighting their delusions and self-inflicted struggles.

The story unfolds through multiple narrators, showcasing the same events from vastly different viewpoints, creating a Rashomon-like quality that delves into the complexities of personal relationships and individual interpretations. The novel provides an interesting study on how navigating personal relationships can be challenging, especially in an environment saturated with alcohol, drugs, and youthful beauty, resonating with college students across generations.

'The Secret Place' by Tana French revolves around a cold murder case at a private girl's school, St. Kilda's. Detective Stephen Moran gets a chance to join Dublin's Murder Squad when Holly Mackey provides a clue related to the case. The story unfolds as Moran teams up with Detective Antoinette Conway to investigate the tangled relationships and secrets among the schoolgirls, all set against the backdrop of a mysterious 'secret place' at the school. The narrative alternates between the present investigation and the past events at the school, showcasing French's skill in character development and atmospheric storytelling.

Catherine House is a prestigious and exclusive college hidden in the woods where students are offered full scholarships and a chance at a prestigious career. The story follows Ines, a student running from her past, who finds herself drawn into the mysterious and unsettling world of Catherine House. The setting is described as gothic and eerie, with elements of mystery, mind control, and secret experiments, creating a dreamlike and unsettling atmosphere. The plot revolves around the students' isolation from the outside world, the unconventional curriculum, and the hidden agenda within the school's walls.

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.

'The Likeness' by Tana French is a psychological thriller that follows Detective Cassie Maddox as she goes undercover to impersonate a murder victim who bears a striking resemblance to her. The story delves into identity, manipulation, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. The plot is described as tense, unusual, and filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged. French's writing style is noted for its atmospheric and moody tone, reminiscent of authors like Donna Tartt and P.D. James.

'The Thirteenth Tale' by Diane Setterfield follows the story of Margaret Lea, a young biographer hired by the reclusive writer Vida Winter to pen her autobiography. As Margaret delves into Vida's mysterious past, she uncovers a gothic tale involving the Angelfield family, secrets, and ghosts. The narrative weaves together themes of family, mystery, and self-discovery, drawing parallels between the lives of the characters and the haunting stories they hold.

Setterfield's writing style in 'The Thirteenth Tale' has been described as beautifully written, captivating, and reminiscent of classic authors like Jane Austen and the Brontë sisters. The book is praised for its poetic prose, intricate storytelling, and the way it keeps readers guessing until the very end. With elements of gothic mystery, psychological depth, and a touch of realism that blurs the line between possibility and fantasy, this novel offers a compelling journey through dark secrets and unexpected revelations.