Books Like...

The Grace Year by Kim Liggett is a thought-provoking YA novel set in a near future society where 16-year-old girls are banished to an isolated camp for a year to rid themselves of a perceived magic that grows within them. The story follows Tierney James as she embarks on her own Grace Year, facing physical and emotional challenges while unraveling the mysteries of the society she lives in. The book explores themes of control, survival, sisterhood, and the resilience of women in the face of societal expectations and oppression.

'Dark Eden' by Chris Beckett is a science fiction novel set on a planet where it is constantly dark, illuminated only by natural sources like glowing flora and fauna. The story follows a colony of humans, descendants of stranded astronauts, who are divided between traditionalists waiting for rescue from Earth and young individuals seeking to explore and adapt to their harsh environment. The narrative provides a nuanced exploration of motivations and conflicts within the colony, focusing on themes of survival, adaptation, and societal change.

The book presents a unique and intriguing world-building concept, depicting a society rooted in tradition and religious fanaticism, struggling with dwindling resources and the need for change. The plot unfolds with a mix of individual voices, showcasing shades of grey in characters' motives and actions, adding depth to the conflict between the old ways and the push for progress. Beckett's writing style, though initially challenging for some readers, immerses them in the dark and mysterious atmosphere of the alien planet, creating a compelling backdrop for the characters' struggles and decisions.

The Rain trilogy by Joseph Turkot follows the story of a female protagonist who embarks on an epic journey in a world where it rains 24/7 nonstop every day. The series explores a post-apocalyptic setting where the main characters face the challenges of relentless rain, survival, and self-discovery. The writing style is described as descriptive and immersive, allowing readers to feel and visualize the cold and damp environment vividly.

In a world where everyone's thoughts are audible, Todd, the last boy in Prentisstown, is on the cusp of manhood when he discovers a patch of silence, leading him to flee his town. Along with a girl named Viola, Todd embarks on a journey to find Haven, a settlement rumored to have no Noise, all while being pursued by the men from Prentisstown. The book explores themes of identity, friendship, and survival in a post-apocalyptic setting, with a unique writing style that immerses readers in the protagonist's thoughts and emotions.

Dark Rooms by Lili Anolik is a mystery novel following Grace Baker's quest to solve her sister Nica's murder. The story is filled with twists and unexpected turns, keeping readers engaged until the end. Grace's investigation leads her to dark places within her family and community, ultimately forcing her to confront unsettling truths about herself. The writing style of the book is described as intense, emotional, and exploring deep human emotions through the eyes of the protagonist.

'Jaran' by Kate Elliott is a unique blend of science fiction and fantasy set on another planet, where the story reads like a fantasy novel despite its sci-fi elements. The plot follows a modern woman who becomes immersed in the culture of a nomadic tribe called the Jaran, experiencing a matriarchal society where both men and women are free to take lovers without judgment. The writing style is described as captivating, with great world-building and a romantic subplot that adds depth to the narrative.

Only Ever Yours by Louise O'Neill is a dystopian novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where girls are genetically engineered to become companions, concubines, or chastities for men. The story follows the protagonist, Frieda, as she navigates a society where women are objectified, judged based on their appearance, and trained from birth to please men. The book delves into themes of beauty standards, misogyny, and the dark consequences of societal expectations on women. The writing style is described as dark, thought-provoking, and reflective of our own society's attitudes towards women.

When She Woke by Hillary Jordan is a dystopian novel set in a not so distant future America where the evangelical right has taken over the government. The story follows Hannah Payne, a woman convicted of murder after having an abortion, resulting in her skin being dyed red as punishment. The narrative explores themes of religious fundamentalism, women's rights, the intertwining of church and state, and the societal implications of government control over personal choices. Jordan's writing style captivates readers with a chilling and thought-provoking storyline that delves into the complexities of faith, ethics, and personal freedom in a repressive society.

In a post-apocalyptic world, the protagonist Griz embarks on a journey to retrieve his stolen dog, Jip, after a thief takes it from their isolated island. The narrative follows Griz's adventures through a depopulated world filled with challenges and surprises, as he navigates the ruins of the old world and documents his travels in a journal. The book delves into themes of loyalty, survival, and the enduring bond between humans and dogs, set against a backdrop of a slowly fading world and the remnants of a forgotten society.

In 'The 5th Wave' by Rick Yancey, the story unfolds in the aftermath of an alien invasion that has devastated Earth through a series of waves, leaving few survivors. The protagonist, Cassie Sullivan, navigates a world where trust is scarce and danger lurks at every turn as she embarks on a perilous journey to rescue her younger brother from the clutches of the alien invaders. Through shifting perspectives and intense action sequences, the narrative explores themes of survival, betrayal, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds.

With a blend of dystopian elements and alien invasion tropes, 'The 5th Wave' offers a gripping and fast-paced read that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The multi-layered plot, filled with twists and suspenseful moments, unfolds through the eyes of various characters, adding depth to the story and providing a panoramic view of the global catastrophe. Yancey's writing style weaves together themes of trust, identity, and sacrifice, creating a captivating narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature in times of crisis.