Books Like...

Set in an alternate Paris, 'The House of Shattered Wings' explores a world ruled by Houses of fallen angels after a magical war. The story revolves around Philippe, a soldier from the colonies, who is bound to House Silverspires, led by Selene. As the plot unfolds, secrets are revealed about Philippe's past and the history of Silverspires, amidst a backdrop of power struggles and revenge plots within the Houses. The book is praised for its worldbuilding, intricate magical system, and the unique setting of a post-apocalyptic Paris.

In Ellen Kushner's 'Swordspoint', readers are transported to a nameless city divided between the Riversiders and the nobles residing on the Hill. The story revolves around a skilled swordsman, St Vier, who is hired by nobles to settle their disputes through duels. As the challenges and fights are regulated by a code, St Vier finds himself entangled in political machinations when one job deviates from the norm. The book offers a medieval-esque tale of intrigue, focusing on the interactions between the nobles, swordsmen, and the social underbelly of the city. The plot weaves together rich, complex world-building and character development, with a touch of queer representation that adds depth to the narrative.

Kushner's writing style in 'Swordspoint' is praised for its crisp and evocative language, creating a vivid backdrop for the characters and their interactions. The book is described as a melodrama of manners set in a non-magical fantasy land, focusing more on sword fighting, political intrigue, and character dynamics than fantastical elements. The author's ability to craft a time and place reminiscent of Regency London, yet distinctly unique, adds to the allure of the story, making it a compelling read for those interested in intricate plots and subtle character relationships.

In the Vanishers? Palace by Aliette de Bodard is a Beauty and the Beast retelling set in an alternate world with a Vietnamese cultural backdrop. The story follows Y n, who is traded to Vu C n, a dragon, to pay off her mother's debt. Initially fearing for her life, Y n discovers she is tasked with teaching the dragon's children in a palace filled with secrets and danger. The novella combines elements of science fiction, fantasy, and romance, challenging traditional genre boundaries. The book explores themes of inclusivity, nonbinary representation, and the complexities of relationships in a unique and thought-provoking manner.

'Spectred Isle' by K.J. Charles is a historical paranormal romance set in post-World War I England. The story follows Raymond Glyde, an occultist, and Saul Lazenby, who keep meeting under mysterious circumstances. As they uncover a building attraction between them, they must work together to save London from supernatural threats, all while navigating their own personal demons from the past. The plot is filled with suspenseful chills, delightful relationship moments, and a well-constructed world that seamlessly blends historical and paranormal elements.

The Watchmaker of Filigree Street by Natasha Pulley is a historical fiction novel set in late 19th-century London and Japan. The story follows Thaniel Steepleton, a civil servant who encounters a mysterious Japanese watchmaker named Keita Mori, whose intricate clockwork inventions seem to hold predictive powers. As Thaniel's life becomes intertwined with Mori's, they navigate through threats of bombings and clairvoyance, while also getting involved with independent scientist Grace Carrow. The novel delves into themes of time, relationships, and societal expectations in a steampunk-infused setting filled with captivating clockwork inventions.

The Copper Promise is a fantasy novel that follows the adventures of an odd trio - Wydrin, a cheeky mercenary known as The Copper Cat, Sebastian, a former knight, and Lord Frith, seeking revenge after his family was murdered. Together, they unleash a dragon god of destruction and find themselves in a quest to save the world. The book is described as a fast-paced and engaging read, filled with magic, adventure, and humor, with characters overcoming personal challenges while facing a world-threatening danger.

'The Green Man's Heir' by Juliet E. McKenna is a modern fantasy novel that follows the story of Daniel Mackmain, a woodworker and carpenter who is the son of a human and a dryad. As Daniel gets embroiled in the murder of a young runaway, he discovers his special powers to see supernatural creatures and is tasked by the Green Man to solve the mystery. The book intricately weaves English folklore, modern-day mysteries, and the protagonist's struggle to navigate his mixed heritage, all set in the picturesque Peak District. The narrative is told in first person, allowing readers to delve into a world where ancient beings coexist with humans, and where the protagonist's journey of self-discovery unfolds amidst supernatural encounters and real-world challenges.

The Ninth Rain is a fantasy novel that introduces readers to a unique world filled with mysteries and secrets. The story follows a group of characters with different points of view as they navigate through a world-changing event that leads to the unraveling of hidden truths. The plot is filled with suspense, drama, and intriguing twists that escalate towards a gripping climax. The writing style seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, science fiction, horror, and mystery, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience.

'Of Sorrow and Such' by Angela Slatter is a dark fantasy novella set in the village of Edda's Meadow, where witches are hunted and killed. The story follows Mistress Gideon, a powerful witch who risks everything to save a foolish shapeshifter named Flora. As the authorities become aware of the supernatural presence in the village, Gideon's life becomes increasingly dangerous. The book explores themes of love, sacrifice, revenge, and the power of female friendship, all wrapped in Angela Slatter's beautifully earthy and sensual prose style.

"Point of Hopes" in the series "Astreiant" by Melissa Scott follows the story of a city guard and a former soldier who are investigating the mysterious disappearance of children in a city where fortune is based on stars. The series is described as a blend of high city fantasy and classic older fantasy, set in a city full of murder and fate determined by stars. The main characters are in a gay relationship, and their adventures involve investigations, mysteries, and magical elements. The writing style is noted for its focus on the main characters' relationship and their various adventures in a fantasy city setting.