Books Like...

'Crosstalk' by Connie Willis is a fun, fast-paced romantic comedy exploring the concept of telepathy and over-communication in a modern technological world. The plot follows the protagonist, Briddey Flannigan, as she undergoes elective surgery to enhance her emotional connection with her boyfriend, only to discover unexpected consequences when she starts hearing voices in her head. The writing style is described as humorous, engaging, and full of well-developed characters, blending elements of science fiction, romance, and social satire.

The Gold Bug Variations by Richard Powers is a dense and complex novel that weaves together themes of genetics, music, love, and science. The story follows two interconnected love stories set against the backdrop of the quest to solve the mysteries of genetic coding. The novel's writing style is described as both poetic and philosophical, delving into the underlying similarities between music and the genetic code, relationships, patterns, and the quest for discovery in science and love.

In "The Road to Roswell," Francie Driscoll travels to Roswell, New Mexico, to dissuade her friend Serena from marrying a UFO enthusiast. However, Francie's plans take an unexpected turn when she encounters an alien creature that she is forced to drive out of town. Along the way, she picks up a quirky group of characters, including a UFO abduction insurance salesman, a UFO enthusiast, a gambling granny, and an RV owner, all while forming a bond with the alien they nickname Indy. The plot unfolds with twists and turns that include miscommunication, media frenzy, and a love story, all in Connie Willis' signature style that combines humor, charm, and unexpected developments.

'To Say Nothing of the Dog' by Connie Willis is a time travel science fiction novel set in both the Victorian era and the future. The story follows Ned Henry, a time-traveling historian who is tasked with recovering the Bishop's Bird Stump, a lost artifact crucial for the reconstruction of Coventry Cathedral. The plot is filled with mishaps, romances, historical references, and humorous elements, all set against a backdrop of intricate time travel logistics and paradoxes. The writing style is described as light-hearted, witty, and full of dry humor, with impeccable research and detailed character development that brings the story to life.

The book combines elements of comedy of manners, Victorian romance, and science fiction, creating a unique and engaging narrative that keeps readers entertained. The characters, particularly Ned Henry and Harriet Verity Kindle, are well-developed and their interactions drive the plot forward. The setting in Victorian England is vividly portrayed, almost like a character in itself, adding depth to the story. Despite some initial confusion and slow pacing at the beginning, the book gradually builds momentum, culminating in a satisfying and intriguing climax that ties together the various threads of the plot.

The Moonspinners by Mary Stewart is a romantic suspense novel set in Crete during the late 1950s or early 1960s. The story follows Nicola Ferris, a smart and capable young woman working at the British Embassy, who embarks on a holiday in Crete. What starts as an idyllic adventure quickly turns into a nerve-wracking suspenseful journey as Nicola stumbles upon a wounded Englishman and becomes entangled in a dangerous web of international intrigue, murder, and kidnapping. As Nicola uncovers a sinister plot orchestrated by a gang of thugs, her knowledge places her in grave danger, leading to a thrilling and suspenseful narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns. Mary Stewart's writing style is praised for its lyrical descriptions of exotic locations, vivid sense of place, and engaging storytelling that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

'The Daughter of Time' by Josephine Tey follows Inspector Alan Grant, a Scotland Yard detective who is recuperating in the hospital and becomes intrigued by the portrait of Richard III. While bedridden, Grant decides to investigate the historical mystery of the Princes in the Tower, challenging the conventional narrative of Richard III as a villain. With the help of a young American researcher, Grant delves into the past to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of the young princes, using modern policing methods to analyze historical events and characters.

The novel cleverly intertwines past and present, blending elements of historical fiction and mystery as Inspector Grant questions the established narrative surrounding Richard III's reign and the fate of the princes. Through meticulous research and analysis, Grant challenges long-held beliefs about Richard III, leading readers on a journey of intrigue, betrayal, and historical revisionism that ultimately sheds light on the complexities of British history and the power of perception.

'Passage' by Connie Willis is a science fiction novel that delves into the exploration of Near Death Experiences (NDEs) through the eyes of researchers at a hospital. The story follows the investigations of two scientists, a psychologist, and a neurologist, who are studying NDEs both naturally and artificially induced. The book portrays a deep dive into the human psyche, mortality, and the mysteries surrounding life after death. Willis weaves a complex narrative filled with suspense, scientific exploration, and a touch of the supernatural, all set in a modern hospital setting.

Willis' writing style in 'Passage' is characterized by intricate plotting, detailed scientific explanations, and well-developed characters. The author creates a sense of urgency and intensity throughout the book, keeping readers engaged with a fast-paced narrative that explores profound themes of death, spirituality, and the human spirit. The story unfolds through a series of twists and turns, leading to a climactic revelation that challenges the characters' beliefs and perceptions about the afterlife.

Possession by A.S. Byatt is a novel that intricately weaves together the stories of two contemporary literary scholars who uncover a hidden love affair between two Victorian poets. Through letters, journals, and poems, the scholars delve into the mystery of the poets' relationship, while also reflecting on their own connections. The book combines elements of romance, academia, and literary criticism, creating a multi-layered narrative that explores themes of passion, possession, and the power of language. Byatt's writing style is described as rich, textured, and engaging, with the inclusion of poetry and multiple writing forms adding depth to the storytelling.

'Impossible Things' by Connie Willis is a collection of short stories that showcase the author's talent for weaving together science fiction elements with personal and warm narratives. The stories cover a wide range of themes, from time travel to political correctness, bureaucracy, and romance. Willis's writing style is praised for its humor, compassion, and innovative ideas, creating engaging and funny tales that often carry deeper meanings. The book includes stories that range from hilarious and delightful to heartbreaking and thought-provoking, with settings that vary from World War II London to alternate Earths and space colonies.

Doomsday Book by Connie Willis is a time-travel science fiction novel that intertwines two timelines - one in the near future at Oxford University, where a historian named Kivrin is sent back to the Middle Ages, specifically to the year 1348 during the Black Death. Meanwhile, a contemporary viral outbreak adds a layer of complexity to the story, creating a sense of urgency and suspense. The book delves into themes of human resilience, historical accuracy, and the impact of catastrophic events on individuals across different time periods.