Books Like...
Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge is a dark and gothic retelling of Beauty and the Beast intertwined with Greek mythology. The story follows Nyx, who is raised to hate the demon lord Ignifex, whom she is destined to marry and kill as part of a bargain made by her father. As Nyx navigates her new life with Ignifex, she discovers that things are not as black and white as she was led to believe, leading to a complex and intricate plot filled with suspense, romance, and dark characters. The book features witty banter, a constantly changing castle, and a love triangle involving Shade, Ignifex's shadow.
If you liked Cruel Beauty, here are the top 100 books to read next:
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Save:In "The Wrath and the Dawn," Shahrzad volunteers to marry the Caliph Khalid, a ruler who has been killing his brides each night, seeking revenge for her best friend's death. As she weaves stories to stay alive, she becomes drawn to the tormented ruler and begins to unravel the secrets he holds. The book is a retelling of One Thousand and One Nights, filled with hate, fear, resentment, friendship, respect, love, and sacrifice, set in a vividly described world with a tangle of beliefs, assumptions, and truths. The writing style is described as rich in detail, with a beautiful portrayal of the setting, characters, and emotions, capturing the exotic mystique of the Middle East.
A breeze gusted along the gossamer curtains lining the walls of the chamber. The sweet scent of citrus blossoms wafted through the carved wooden screens leading to the terrace, whispering of a freedom... - #2
Save:"To Kill a Kingdom" by Alexandra Christo is a dark and action-filled retelling of The Little Mermaid, focusing on the characters of Lira, a siren princess, and Elian, a pirate prince. The story follows their unlikely alliance as they are forced to work together to defeat the sea queen, blending elements of mythology, love, and pirates. The book is praised for its unique take on the classic tale, incorporating murderous mermaids, witty banter, and a slow-burning romance between the two protagonists.
The narrative alternates between Lira and Elian's perspectives, providing insights into their characters and their evolving relationship. The writing style is described as engaging, with vivid world-building and morally ambiguous characters that add depth to the plot. Readers appreciate the fresh twist on familiar themes, such as the dark romance of pirates, monsters, and vengeance, making it a compelling and immersive read.
THERE’S GLITTER AND TREASURE on every speck of every street. Houses with roofs thatched by gold thread and fanciful lanterns with casings brighter than their light. Even the surface of the water has t... - #3
Save:'Down Comes the Night' by Allison Saft is a gothic fantasy novel that follows Wren Southerland, a healer with a talent for magic, who finds herself in the midst of a dangerous mystery and brewing war. The story is set in a world where war-torn countries, Vesria and Danu, are on the brink of conflict, with Wren navigating through political intrigue and dark secrets to prevent another devastating war. The writing style is described as immersive, with vivid descriptions of the setting and characters, creating a suspenseful and atmospheric tone throughout the book.
She replayed the break over and over again, each moment frozen like hoarfrost on the backs of her eyes. The boy, desperate to escape, scrabbling up the side of a tree. His fingers catching on a branch... - #4
Save:'Sky in the Deep' by Adrienne Young is a captivating historical fantasy novel set in a Viking-inspired society. The story follows Eelyn, a fierce warrior who discovers her brother alive and fighting alongside their enemies, leading to unexpected alliances and challenges. The book is filled with epic battle scenes, strong character development, and a slow-burn romance that adds depth to the plot. Readers are drawn into a world of brutal icy fjords, savage battlegrounds, and intricate tribal dynamics, creating a vivid backdrop for the characters' struggles and growth. The writing style is engaging, with a good pace that keeps readers hooked from the first bloody battle to the final showdown.
I looked down the row of Aska hunched against each other, ducking behind the muddy hill. The fog sat on the field like a veil, but we could hear it. The blades of swords and axes brushing against armo... - #5
Save:In 'Sweet Black Waves' by Kristina Perez, readers are taken on a captivating journey inspired by the Tristan and Isolde legend. The story revolves around Branwen, cousin to Princess Essy, who finds herself entwined in a complex web of love, friendship, and political intrigue. Set in a fantasy world reminiscent of medieval lore, the book beautifully weaves together elements of Celtic mythology, magic, and romance. Through lush prose and immersive world-building, Perez crafts a tale filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged until the very end.
Branwen's character development shines as she navigates the challenges of loyalty, love, and duty in a world torn apart by war. The narrative skillfully explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the consequences of forbidden love, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless tale. With a rich tapestry of characters and a gripping plot that builds suspense with each chapter, 'Sweet Black Waves' promises a riveting reading experience that transports readers to a realm of kingdoms, magic, and heart-wrenching decisions.
Fractured images swirled in the back of Branwen’s mind, transporting her a thousand leagues away from Castle Rigani. She dug her fingernails into the armrests of her chair as her heartbeat accelerated... - #6
Save:'An Enchantment of Ravens' by Margaret Rogerson is a YA fantasy novel that follows the journey of a young adult heroine named Isobel who possesses the ability to paint and perform a Craft. The story delves into Isobel's encounters with the fae, the development of a sweet romance, and the exploration of a magical world filled with mythology and beautiful imagery. As Isobel navigates through her adventures, she grapples with the complexities of fae-human relationships, the limitations of magic, and the implications of her artistic creations on the fae realm. The plot unfolds with elements of romance, artistry, and fantastical creatures, ultimately leading Isobel to a deeper understanding of love, creativity, and self-discovery.
The writing style of 'An Enchantment of Ravens' is described as captivating, engaging, and thought-provoking by readers. The author, Margaret Rogerson, successfully weaves together a tale that combines elements of romance, fantasy, and adventure, drawing readers into a world where human emotions and creativity play a central role in the narrative. Through vivid imagery, well-developed characters, and exploration of themes like power dynamics and personal growth, the book offers a unique take on fae lore and immerses readers in a magical realm filled with enchanting possibilities.
The trick with Gadfly was persuading him to wear the same clothes for every session. Oil paint needs days to dry between layers, and he had trouble understanding I couldn’t just swap his entire outfit... - #7
Save:In 'Frostblood' by Elly Blake, the story follows Ruby, a Fireblood with the ability to summon heat and fire, in a world where Firebloods are persecuted by Frostbloods. Captured and taken to prison after her mother is killed, Ruby is freed under the condition that she helps two powerful Frostbloods with a dangerous task. As Ruby navigates through her powers and the dangerous world around her, she forms an unlikely alliance with Arcus, a Frostblood with secrets of his own, leading to a complicated relationship filled with tension and mystery. The plot unfolds with elements of magic, romance, and a prophecy, creating a fast-paced and engaging YA fantasy novel.
I woke with a jerk, heart racing. A dark shape, something strange and inhuman, had been hovering over me, touching my cheek in a blistering caress. I blinked away the dream, and the prison came into f... - #8
Save:'Bring Me Their Hearts' by Sara Wolf follows the story of Zera, a Heartless who serves a witch named Nightsinger by collecting royal hearts. Zera is on a mission to retrieve the Prince's heart within two weeks to regain her own heart and freedom. The story is filled with strong female lead characters, magical elements like heart magic reminiscent of Once Upon a Time, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers engaged. Sara Wolf's writing style is described as engaging, with lifelike characters and a dark tone that adds depth to the narrative.
“You’re my new partners in crime, then?” I ask the man who waved his hat at me. He descends the carriage, all lanky limbs and long face and nut-brown wrinkles. He’s so thin and tall he looks like a sc... - #9
Save:'A Curse So Dark and Lonely' by Brigid Kemmerer is a unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast, set in a fantasy world where a cursed king, Prince Rhen, is trapped in a time loop and seeks true love to break the curse. The story follows Harper, a teen girl with cerebral palsy, who is unexpectedly whisked away to Emberfall, the cursed kingdom. As Harper navigates this new world, she becomes Rhen's last hope to break the curse and save his kingdom from impending destruction. The book combines elements of magic, adventure, and romance, with well-developed characters and a captivating plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The writing style of 'A Curse So Dark and Lonely' is praised for its fast-paced and gripping plot that seamlessly weaves together familiar Beauty and the Beast themes with unique twists and dark, creepy elements. Readers appreciate the dual point of view, particularly Harper's portrayal as a strong and independent heroine, and the accurate representation of cerebral palsy without it being perceived as a weakness. The book offers a refreshing take on classic fairy tales, with engaging characters, a well-developed world, and a storyline that keeps readers immersed in the fantasy realm of Emberfall.
CHAPTER ONE RHEN There is blood under my fingernails. I wonder how many of my people I’ve killed this time. I thrust my hands into the barrel beside the stables. The ice-cold water bites at my skin, b... - #10
Save:The Black Witch Chronicles by Laurie Forest follows the story of Elloren Gardner, a girl raised in a racist society who embarks on a journey of growth and self-discovery as she challenges her preconceived notions about different races and cultures. The book delves into themes of racism, prejudice, and societal values, all while incorporating elements of magic, coming of age, and university life, providing a compelling narrative with strong character development and world-building.
Elloren's transformation from a sheltered individual to someone who confronts her own prejudices and stands up against the injustices of her society is a central focus of the plot. The story unfolds at the University where Elloren is exposed to diverse races and cultures, leading her to question the teachings she has received and ultimately embrace tolerance and pluralism in the face of political turmoil and social unrest.
I glance down with amusement at my young neighbors, a basket of freshly picked vegetables and herbs balanced on my hip, a slight near-autumn chill fighting to make itself known through the warm sunlig...
