Books Like...

'In Other Lands' by Sarah Rees Brennan is a story of a boy, Elliot Schafer, who is transported to a military fantasy world where common tropes are subverted. The book explores themes of friendship, gender roles, and sexuality in a snarky and intelligent manner. It follows Elliot's journey as he navigates through a magical land, attending a magical military school, and forming relationships with a found family of friends. The writing style is described as funny, heartfelt, and charming, with a focus on character development and witty dialogue that keeps readers engaged.

In an alternative version of 2020, 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston follows the romantic journey between Alex, the son of the first female president of the United States, and Henry, a prince of England. The book presents a witty, fun, and heartwarming narrative that explores the complex relationship between the two characters as they navigate their love amidst political tensions and personal discoveries. The writing style of the book is engaging, offering a mix of romance, humor, and political drama that creates a compelling and optimistic storyline.

'The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue' follows Monty, an 18-year-old Viscount, as he embarks on the European Grand Tour with his best friend Percy and his sister Felicity. Their journey is filled with themes of sexuality, racism, and historical references, as they face highwaymen, alchemy, pirates, and privateers. The story is described as a highly romantic adventure with elements of humor, suspense, and action, offering a unique perspective on a gay male protagonist in the 17th century.

The plot of the book is praised for its engaging and charming nature, with well-developed characters and a fast-paced storyline that keeps readers hooked. The writing style is commended for its humor, historical accuracy, and the balance between adventure and sentiment. addresses important topics such as discrimination, feminism, and racism, while also providing a fun and enjoyable reading experience.

Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas is a captivating story about Yadriel, a trans Latinx boy on a journey to prove himself as a brujo and summon spirits. Accidentally summoning the spirit of a rebellious teenage boy named Julian, Yadriel finds himself entangled in a mystery involving deaths, ghosts, and magical family traditions. The book explores themes of gender identity, cultural heritage, and acceptance while weaving in elements of romance, magic, and family bonds. The plot unfolds with a mix of magical realism, diverse characters, and immersive world-building, creating a story that is both heartwarming and suspenseful.

The writing style in Cemetery Boys is praised for its engaging narrative, diverse representation, and well-developed characters. Readers are drawn into the world of Latinx brujx community, where Yadriel and his friends navigate through challenges, mysteries, and relationships. The book offers a blend of mystical elements, romantic entanglements, and cultural themes, creating a rich and vibrant story that resonates with readers looking for a mix of fantasy, mystery, and LGBTQ+ representation.

In "Captive Prince" by C.S. Pacat, readers are introduced to a gripping tale of political intrigue and complex relationships in a Greco-Roman inspired alternate world. The story follows Prince Damianos, betrayed by his half-brother and sent as a slave gift to the enemy kingdom's crown prince, Laurent. As the plot unfolds, readers are immersed in a world filled with palace intrigue, strong character development, and an intricate political climate that keeps them hooked till the end. The slow-burn romance between the two main characters, Damen and Laurent, adds a layer of tension and depth to the narrative, making it a compelling read for fans of male-male romance.

The book has been praised for its intricate world-building, well-written characters, and the way it handles themes of politics, power dynamics, and betrayal. The narrative is described as intense, engaging, and filled with suspense, with readers finding themselves invested in the lives of the characters and eager to uncover the twists and turns of the story as it unfolds across the trilogy.

"Fangirl" by Rainbow Rowell follows the story of Cath, a college freshman who is struggling to find her place as she navigates new friendships, anxieties, and young love while also dealing with her family dynamics. Cath is a popular fanfiction writer in the Simon Snow fandom, and the book delves into her journey of self-discovery, growth, and relationships. The novel beautifully portrays the conflicts and resolutions in Cath's life, showcasing her creativity and struggles with writing, as well as her evolving identity and relationships.

The book combines elements of humor, heartwarming moments, and relatable characters, providing insights into the life of a young adult facing challenges such as family issues, mental health struggles, and the pursuit of personal growth. Through Cath's experiences, readers witness themes of friendship, independence, and the complexities of transitioning into adulthood, all woven together with a touch of nostalgia for fandom culture and the power of storytelling.

'Heartstopper: Volume One' by Alice Oseman is a heartwarming graphic novel that follows the friendship and growing romantic relationship between two high school boys, Nick and Charlie. The book beautifully portrays their journey of self-discovery, attraction, and navigating the complexities of young love. Readers praise the adorable and cute moments between the main characters, as well as the gentle and sensitive way Alice Oseman tackles complex sexuality themes with subtle wit. The story is described as a blend of sweet romance, friendship, and coming-of-age, making it a delightful and relatable read.

The plot unfolds with charming and wholesome interactions between Nick and Charlie, drawing readers into a world filled with genuine emotions and relatable experiences. The art style is commended for its simplicity yet ability to evoke strong emotions, while the characters are celebrated for their authenticity and the realistic portrayal of young queer relationships. As the story progresses, readers are left eagerly anticipating the next volumes to witness the evolution of Nick and Charlie's relationship, making 'Heartstopper: Volume One' a heartwarming and captivating read.

Winter's Orbit is a science fiction novel that revolves around a mystery surrounding the death of Jainan's previous husband, which was initially believed to be an accident. The story unfolds as Prince Kiem and Jainan navigate through an interplanetary conspiracy while being forced into an arranged marriage to secure a peace treaty between two planets. The book delves into themes of political intrigue, relationships, and gender representation within a solar system-wide empire, providing a blend of romance, mystery, and space opera elements. The writing style is described as engaging, with a focus on character development and relationships, making it an accessible and enjoyable read for both sci-fi enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.

The Foxhole Court is a book that follows Neil Josten, a character running from his past who gets recruited to play Exy at Palmetto State University. The story revolves around the team dynamics, the mysterious pasts of the characters, and the intense plot that keeps readers engaged. The writing style is described as captivating, with a slow build-up that eventually hooks the reader into the dark and intriguing world created by Nora Sakavic.

Dark Rise by C.S. Pacat follows the story of Will, a 16-year-old boy who witnesses his mother's murder and is told he must fight alongside the Stewards against the reborn Dark King. As Will navigates a world of magic and training for an upcoming battle, he uncovers unexpected twists and turns, challenging the traditional 'good vs evil' trope. The author's writing style is described as elegant and evocative, with intricate world-building and a narrative that unfolds with suspense, capturing the nuances of the characters' voices and making them feel distinct and authentic.