Books Like...
A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb is a unique tale of two souls, Helen and James, who are trapped between earth and heaven and fall in love. They inhabit human bodies, unraveling their past identities and forming a deep connection. The novel is a fast-paced and engrossing read that delves into themes of life, death, religion, and love, with a poetic and lyrical writing style that captures the emotions and struggles of the characters. The plot revolves around the impossible love affair between two spirits from different generations inhabiting modern-day teen bodies, dealing with typical teen issues alongside their haunting past lives.
The story unfolds as Helen, the protagonist, navigates being a ghost for 130 years and finds solace in her love for James, leading to a poignant exploration of the enduring nature of love. The book beautifully blends supernatural elements with themes of redemption, loss, and first love, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with readers. The author's prose is described as ethereal, atmospheric, and intense, with references to poets and writers adding depth to the storyline, making it a haunting and emotional journey.
If you liked A Certain Slant of Light, here are the top 60 books to read next:
- #1
Save:Spirited Away by Cindy Miles is a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, fantasy, and mystery. The story follows Andi Monroe, a forensic archaeologist, who is drawn into a 700-year-old curse surrounding a medieval knight named Tristan de Barre, also known as Dragonhawk. As Andi delves into the history of Dreadmoor Castle, she becomes entwined in a quest to break the curse that binds Tristan and his men to the earthly realm. Along the way, Andi uncovers secrets, faces challenges, and navigates a world where past and present collide, all while experiencing a blend of intrigue, romance, and humor that keeps readers engaged till the end.
The writing style of Spirited Away is praised for its ability to transport readers to a different world filled with ghosts, witchcraft, and medieval knights. Cindy Miles weaves a story that balances a sense of mystery and romance, drawing readers into a narrative that offers a unique blend of historical elements and modern-day intrigue. With a strong heroine, engaging characters, and a plot that keeps readers guessing, Spirited Away is a book that offers a delightful escape into a world where love transcends time.
"You want me to do what?" Dr. Andi Monroe wiped the rain from her eyes and stared, disbelieving, at her boss. "You're kidding, right? A joke?" She pushed the hood of her weatherproofs from her head an... - #2
Save:Body and Soul by Susan Krinard is a paranormal historical romance novel that follows the story of Jesse Copeland, an expert in mountain rescues, haunted by her mother's mysterious death. When Jesse returns to Manzanita, she encounters a transparent man named David Ventris, a powerful ghost from 1815 who seeks forgiveness from Jesse to escape limbo. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a journey of love and loss, hate and forgiveness, and the intertwining of past and present lives.
The book is described as a fine supernatural paranormal, fantasy romance with elements of Gothic novels, featuring a plot filled with twists, surprises, and a touch of Sci-Fi. The writing style is praised for its excellent storytelling, deft character development, and the ability to keep readers engaged from start to finish.
Only a small number of the residents of Manzanita turned out for the service. Jesse stood with a cluster of search and rescue volunteers, men and women from the team that had tried to save Bobby from ... - #3
Save:The Last Victim by Karen Robards follows the story of Dr. Charlotte Stone, a criminal pathologist who sees dead people and is asked by the FBI to help catch a serial killer. The book combines elements of murder, paranormal romance, and suspense, with a focus on Charlie's expertise in studying violent offenders and her unique ability to communicate with ghosts of the recently deceased. The plot unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, creating a thrilling and engaging narrative that keeps readers hooked from the first page to the last.
But in the random way the world sometimes works, the seventeen-year-old did drink several big tumblers full of Goofy Grape generously mixed with vodka, courtesy of her new best friend Holly Palmer. As... - #4
Save:The Dead Girls of Hysteria Hall by Katie Alender is a horror ghost story that follows Delia, a 16-year-old girl who inherits her great aunt Cordelia's house, which was an asylum for troubled women known as Hysteria Hall. Delia soon discovers that the house is haunted and holds dark secrets, leading her on a journey to uncover the mysteries behind the asylum and free the trapped ghosts within. The book combines elements of mystery, suspense, and eerie creepiness, making it a fast-paced and engaging read for fans of ghost stories and haunted asylums.
You know that feeling when someone’s eyes are on you—watching you, studying your movement, your breathing? And how it gives you this whole new awareness of how much effort it takes to just stand there... - #5
Save:In "The Ghost and the Goth," Alona Dare, a popular and glamorous high school student, dies in a tragic accident and finds herself stuck as a ghost, unable to move on. Will Killian, a misunderstood and antisocial boy who can see and interact with ghosts, becomes the only person who can communicate with Alona. Despite their initial animosity, Alona enlists Will's help to find her way to the afterlife, leading to a unique and humorous relationship between the two characters. The book delves into themes of friendship, personal growth, and acceptance, with a blend of supernatural elements and light-hearted humor.
The alternating perspectives between Alona and Will provide insights into their individual struggles and growth as they navigate the challenges of high school and the afterlife. The story explores the dynamics of their evolving relationship, the mysteries surrounding the ghosts they encounter, and the deeper layers of their characters beyond the stereotypes they initially embody. With a mix of funny dialogues, engaging plot twists, and relatable teenage dilemmas, "The Ghost and the Goth" offers a fresh take on the paranormal genre, combining elements of romance, mystery, and self-discovery in a captivating narrative.
Dying should have been the worst moment in my life. I mean, hello, getting run over by a school bus full of band geeks while wearing the regulation gym uniform of red polyester short shorts and a prac... - #6
Save:'Remember Me' by Christopher Pike is a young adult book that follows the story of Shari, an eighteen-year-old girl who tries to prove that she did not commit suicide after her untimely death. As a ghost, she investigates her own murder, trying to uncover the truth behind her death. The plot is a mix of murder mystery and metaphysical musings, with supernatural elements woven into the narrative. The writing style is engaging, with a limited viewpoint from the protagonist, Shari, as she navigates the afterlife and uncovers the events leading up to her demise.
The book explores themes of life after death, friendship, betrayal, and the quest for justice. It keeps readers engaged with its suspenseful plot and unexpected twists, making it a compelling read for both young adults and adults alike who enjoy mysteries with a supernatural twist.
JEAN RODRIGUES did not want to become her mother. A not quite forty-yearold woman with five kids, a dead husband lost to booze, working sixty hours a week at a coffee shop just to pay the rent on a ru... - #7
Save:"The Ghost and Mrs. Muir" by R.A. Dick is a charming and heartwarming story about a young widow named Lucy Muir who decides to take charge of her life by moving into Gull Cottage, despite the objections of those around her. The titular ghost, Captain Gregg, initially disapproves of Lucy's presence but eventually forms a close friendship with her, offering advice and support as she navigates through life, love, and independence. The story follows Lucy's journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and resilience, intertwined with the unique bond she shares with the ghost of Captain Gregg.
The narrative style of the book is described as quick, easy, and engaging, with a focus on character development and the evolving relationship between Lucy and Captain Gregg. The story highlights themes of independence, friendship, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of a haunted cottage by the sea. Readers appreciate the simplicity and charm of the storytelling, as well as the timeless quality of the characters and their interactions throughout the decades.
Mrs. Muir was a little woman. Every one was agreed upon that point. Where others were merely referred to as Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Smith, she was invariably spoken of as “little Mrs. Muir” or “dear littl... - #8
Save:In "In an Instant," author Suzanne Redfearn crafts a gripping narrative centered around a tragic and deadly accident during a weekend ski trip. The story unfolds through the unique perspective of 16-year-old Finn, who narrates from the afterlife. Readers are drawn into the aftermath of the accident, where a group of individuals grapple with their actions and decisions made in the face of tragedy. The writing style evokes raw human emotion, offering a compelling exploration of grief, survival, and the complexities of human nature.
A tooth extraction would be less painful. For five months I’ve endured this torture. Since the announcement of my sister’s engagement, the minutiae of her nuptials have been dissected and regurgitated... - #9
Save:'Making Merry' by Kerrigan Byrne is a historical romance novella set during the winter solstice of 1891 in the Scottish Highlands. The story follows Vanessa, a daring adventurer, who finds herself stuck at a haunted inn during a snowstorm. There, she encounters Jonathan, the ghost of an English earl who has been trapped at the inn for the past 150 years. Despite their unusual circumstances, Vanessa and Jonathan form a connection filled with wintery magic, mystery, and a touch of romance. The plot unfolds with elements of surprise, humor, and a heartwarming ending that intertwines the past and present.
The writing style of Kerrigan Byrne in 'Making Merry' is praised for its ability to deliver a captivating and sizzling story within the constraints of a novella. Readers appreciate the blend of historical details, paranormal elements, and a strong romantic plot that keeps them engaged from start to finish. The author's talent for weaving together intriguing characters, a unique setting, and a touch of magic creates a delightful reading experience that is both entertaining and satisfying.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Goode Girls ) - #10
Save:'Shadowland' in 'The Mediator' series by Meg Cabot follows the story of Suze, a teenage mediator who can see, speak to, and interact with spirits. Suze moves to California after her mother remarries, where she encounters spirits in her new home and school. She navigates her unique abilities while dealing with stepbrothers and a mean popular ghost girl. As the series progresses, Suze helps ghosts move on to the other side, uncovering mysteries and facing supernatural challenges along the way.
Oh, I know they have palm trees in Southern California. I mean, I'm not a complete moron. I've watched90210 , and everything. But I was moving to Northern California. I didn't expect to see palm trees...
