Books matching: supernatural underworld
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- #1
Save:A wild, gritty mashup of mobsters and monsters with breakneck pacing and an unforgettable voice - perfect for fans of dark urban fantasy who love their stories bold, brutal, and just a little weird.
'The Blue Blazes' by Chuck Wendig is a gritty urban fantasy novel following the protagonist Mookie Pearl, a mob enforcer who navigates both the criminal underworld and the paranormal underworld. The story is filled with graphic violence, gang violence, and supernatural elements, creating a dark and unique setting in a noir version of New York City. Wendig's writing style is described as gloriously foul-mouthed, with creatively profane language used to add depth and character to the novel. The characters, especially Mookie Pearl, are portrayed as complex and realistic, breaking away from typical stereotypes found in the genre.
They want what we have. The denizens of the Great Below care little for the humans of the Infinite Above except as providers, as resources, as dogs or toys or tools. They rape and kill and feed. They...2013•400 pages - #2
Save:An action-packed, darker entry in the Otherworld series, Personal Demon freshens up the formula with dual narration and higher stakes, but won't win over everyone - especially those less keen on Hope or the Cabal-centric storyline. Worth it for dedicated fans and urban fantasy lovers.
'Personal Demon' in the 'Women of the Otherworld' series by Kelley Armstrong is a gripping tale that delves into the world of supernatural beings. The book follows the story of Hope Adams, a chaos demon, who finds herself entangled in a Cabal investigation. As she navigates through the complexities of her demon half and her relationships with characters like Karl and the Cabal, secrets unravel, alliances are tested, and unexpected twists keep the readers on the edge of their seats. The dual narration by Hope and Lucas adds depth to the storytelling, showcasing a new perspective and exploring intricate plot developments.
The writing style of 'Personal Demon' is praised for its ability to blend action, suspense, and romantic subplots seamlessly. Readers appreciate the grey areas portrayed in the characters' personalities, particularly in Karl and Hope, adding layers of complexity to the story. The book is commended for its intriguing plot twists, dynamic character interactions, and the exploration of supernatural elements intertwined with human emotions, making it a compelling addition to the Women of the Otherworld series.
I called Benicio the next morning. When he learned I had something to report, he asked me to meet Troy for breakfast and fill him in. In other words, he hadn’t expected results so soon and didn’t want...2008•519 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Women of the Otherworld ) - #3
Save:A clever and original urban fantasy with a flawed but compelling protagonist. Not perfect, but a strong start to a unique series - worth picking up if you crave something different in the world of vamps and weres!
Scarlett Bernard is a Null, a person who negates all magic around her, making her invaluable in cleaning up supernatural messes. The book follows Scarlett as she navigates her relationships with vampires, werewolves, and witches in Los Angeles while trying to solve a murder mystery to save her own life. The plot involves Scarlett being suspected of involvement in the murders of vampire servants and racing against time to find the real killers to avoid being killed herself. The writing style is a mix of urban fantasy with elements of mystery and romance, focusing on Scarlett's inner struggles and her interactions with the supernatural world.
It had been an unusually warm September in Los Angeles, and the temperature in Eli’s bedroom had to be pushing eighty. I threw off the sheets and muttered something along the lines of “stupid fan,” wh...October 2012•293 pages - #4
Save:Wild, brutal, and defiantly original - this is horror that drags you kicking and screaming into its nightmare with style. Not for everyone, but horror fans craving something relentless and different will love the ride.
'The Final Cut' by Jasper Bark is a gripping horror novel that follows the journey of two struggling filmmakers, Sam and Jimmy, who find themselves deeply entangled in a world of supernatural horror after coming across a disturbing snuff film. As they delve deeper into the dark secrets behind the film, they are drawn into a twisted web of ancient mythology, good versus evil, and the quest for redemption. The narrative weaves together elements of extreme violence, gore, and metaphysical exploration, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they uncover the layers of the story.
Bark's writing style is described as visceral and intense, with graphic detail that immerses readers into a nightmarish realm of horror. The book expertly balances moments of extreme violence with introspection and philosophical musings, offering a unique blend of terror and depth. Through the characters of Sam and Jimmy, Bark explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of delving into the forbidden realms of the supernatural, creating a story that is both chilling and thought-provoking.
“So, let me see if I’ve got this right,” Ashkan paused for effect. Like a lot of gangsters, he fancied himself a bit of an actor. The Iranian Al Pacino was how he styled himself. Right now his well pr...May 2016•280 pages - #5
Save:A dark, spicy, and addictive paranormal mafia romance with unforgettable characters and plenty of twists - perfect for reverse harem fans who crave both bite and banter. Just beware the cliffhanger!
Syndicate Princess by Kira Stanley is a captivating paranormal romance that blends the supernatural with mafia themes. The story revolves around Rayla, a fierce vampire princess, who must navigate a deadly challenge set by the vampire boss. Several male heirs, each with distinct personalities and abilities, compete for her hand, but Rayla is determined to resist being claimed. The book's world-building is impressive, gradually revealing the intricacies of its dark setting while focusing on character dynamics and relationships. The engaging banter and quick wit among the characters add to the overall enjoyment of the narrative.
Rayla is depicted as a tough and funny lead, with her strong, sassy personality shining through the plot's twists and turns. While the action is intense, the humor balances the darkness, making the read fun and lively. Readers are drawn into the unique relationships between Rayla and the heirs, showcasing a mix of tension and teamwork. Despite a few narrative inconsistencies and a thirst for deeper world exploration, the cliffhanger ending will leave readers eager for more. Overall, this spicy and dark romance promises an entertaining ride with plenty of action and character development.
Today was the worst day. My daddy was upset, everyone was fussing over me, getting on me to keep my black dress clean, and my mommy . . . well, my mommy was dead in a box, and I couldn’t stop staring...June 2023•550 pages - #6
Save:A pioneering urban fantasy with a kickass heroine and cool supernatural noir vibes - fun for genre fans, but uneven pacing and an abrasive lead mean it's not for everyone. Try it if you want to see where today’s paranormal thrillers started, but be ready for dated quirks and some rough edges.
'Guilty Pleasures' by Laurell K. Hamilton is the first book in the Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter series. The story follows Anita Blake, an animator who raises zombies and works as a police consultant in a world where vampires, weres, and other supernatural beings coexist with humans. Anita gets entangled in solving a series of vampire murders, and as she navigates the dangerous supernatural underworld, she faces challenges, moral dilemmas, and threats from both vampires and fellow vampire hunters. The plot development is akin to traditional sleuth stories, but with a paranormal twist, involving clues, dead ends, and a central mystery that keeps the reader engaged.
The writing style of 'Guilty Pleasures' is described as dark, gritty, and addictive by readers. The book offers a mix of humor, mystery, and supernatural elements, creating an interesting and engaging narrative. Anita Blake emerges as a strong, complex protagonist, combining elements of sleuthing, vampire hunting, and dealing with the challenges of her unique profession. The book introduces a world where vampires are commonplace, mysteries abound, and danger lurks at every corner, setting the stage for a thrilling urban fantasy series.
WILLIEMCCOY HAD been a jerk before he died. His being dead didn’t change that. He sat across from me, wearing a loud plaid sport jacket. The polyester pants were primary Crayola green. His short, blac...1993•355 pages - #7
Save:A fun popcorn urban fantasy ride with witty writing and imaginative worldbuilding - more about monster mayhem and teamwork than steamy romance. Not life-changing, but an entertaining start to a series with loads of promise.
'The Grendel Affair' in the 'SPI Files' series by Lisa Shearin follows the story of Makenna Mac Fraser, a seer working for Supernatural Protection and Investigations (SPI) in New York. The book introduces us to the activities of SPI, an organization established to protect humanity and well-behaved supernaturals from dangerous individuals and keep the global population from realizing that there are monsters living among them. As Mac and her partner Ian navigate through a plot involving imported Grendels threatening a rampage through New York on New Year's Eve, they must put aside their differences to battle a nemesis aiming to unveil the existence of supernatural creatures.
Dealing with threats both external and within the SPI team, the book presents a mix of action-packed sequences, well-written combat scenes, and a narrative style that combines snarky humor with relevant pop culture references. As Mac and Ian work together to combat evil and protect their boss from a personal grudge, the story unfolds with hints of romance, a diverse cast of characters, and a blend of mystery and urban fantasy elements.
MOST people grabbed a coffee on the way to work. I was clinking my way to the liquor store checkout with three bottles of Jack Daniel’s. One bottle would probably get the job done, but I snagged an ex...December 2013•305 pages - #8
Save:A short, punchy, and delightfully twisted ride through a supernatural noir London - great for fans of urban fantasy who want wild imagination and fast action over deep characters or subtle plotting.
'Something from the Nightside' by Simon R. Green is a dark fantasy novel that follows the protagonist, John Taylor, as he navigates the mysterious underworld of the Nightside, a hidden part of London where the supernatural and the bizarre coexist. John, a private investigator with a unique talent for finding things, gets drawn back into the Nightside after five years to solve a case involving a missing girl. As he delves deeper into the dark and dangerous world of the Nightside, he uncovers secrets, encounters strange creatures, and faces unexpected challenges. combines elements of fantasy, horror, and hardboiled detective fiction, creating a fast-paced and immersive story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The writing style of 'Something from the Nightside' is described as engaging, with a good balance of humor, horror, and mystery. The author, Simon R. Green, introduces readers to a vividly imagined world filled with unique characters and imaginative settings. The novel is fast-paced, with a mix of dark and light moments, and features a smartass main character, John Taylor, who adds a layer of wit and charm to the narrative. Green's storytelling weaves together elements of noir detective fiction with supernatural elements, creating a compelling and atmospheric read that transports readers to a world where the line between reality and fantasy blurs.
Private eyes come in all shapes and sizes, and none of them look like television stars. Some do insurance work, some hang around cheap hotels with camcorders hoping to get evidence for divorce cases,...May 2003•249 pages - #9
Save:A page-turning start to a fresh, Egyptian-inspired urban fantasy series with great characters and sizzling tension - just expect a few bumps and an ending that’ll have you reaching for book two.
Sins of the Heart revolves around the complex relationship between the characters Dagan and Roxy, who come from opposing factions and find themselves entangled in a dangerous plot that could lead to war in the Underworld. The book expertly weaves together elements of Egyptian mythology, creating a riveting world filled with tension and intrigue. Despite being mortal enemies, Dagan and Roxy must find common ground to prevent a catastrophe that could jeopardize both their worlds.
The story delves into themes of redemption, forbidden love, and the consequences of past decisions as Dagan embarks on a quest to unravel the mystery behind his brother's murder. As the characters navigate through a web of secrets and betrayals, they are forced to confront their own inner demons while trying to forge a fragile alliance amidst the looming threat of war.
Save me from that god who steals souls, Who laps up corruption, who lives on what is putrid, Who is in charge of darkness, who lives in gloom, Of whom those who are among the languid ones are afraid....2010•400 pages - #10
Save:A fun, light, and magical ride for cozy fantasy and urban fantasy fans who aren’t in a rush - stick with it for lovable characters and an underworld twist!
Dead to the World by Annabel Chase is a blend of myth and magic. The story revolves around Lorelei, a thirty-something woman with the ability to see and control the dead. As she navigates a small town filled with supernatural beings, readers are introduced to a rich tapestry of characters, including werewolves, witches, and a demon prince who becomes her love interest. The plot unfolds slowly, with hints about Lorelei's true nature kept under wraps, which creates a sense of mystery that keeps readers engaged.
The writing style is upbeat and cozy, with light humor and witty dialogue that enhances the storytelling. Readers appreciate the well-paced narrative and the strong character development, though some found certain plot points frustrating. It’s easy to binge-read, as the chapters flow smoothly, making you want to keep turning the pages. Despite minor editing flaws, the overall experience is enjoyable and leaves readers excited for future installments in the series.
“I told you, the name’s Ray. I’m not trying to mansplain or anything disrespectful like that. It’s just that I spent years as a carpenter, and it’s downright painful to watch you work.” The ghost drif...May 2023•236 pages
