Books Like...
Twin sisters Moria and Ashyn are tasked with special gifts - Moria as the Keeper and Ashyn as the Seeker. Each year, they journey to the Forest of the Dead to help departed spirits. However, their trip goes wrong, leading to a series of events that force them to make uncomfortable decisions while trying to stay true to their calling.
The story is set in a high fantasy world where Moria and Ashyn, as twins, have been destined to serve their village as keeper and seeker. The plot revolves around their journey to find each other after their village is destroyed, uncovering sinister forces at play and facing challenges that test their abilities and convictions.
If you liked Sea of Shadows, here are the top 21 books to read next:
- #1
The Gathering, part of the Darkness Rising series by Kelley Armstrong, introduces readers to Maya, a strong and self-assured protagonist living in the isolated town of Salmon Creek. As Maya navigates the mysteries surrounding her best friend's death and her newfound connection with the enigmatic bad boy Rafe, readers are drawn into a charming and seductive story filled with secrets, corporate espionage, and a sense of foreboding. The book's fast-paced and captivating plot, along with Kelley Armstrong's skillful world-building, keeps readers engaged and eager for more, as they uncover the intricate layers of the narrative that hint at a larger supernatural world beyond the town's borders.
The Gathering offers a fresh start to a new trilogy, seamlessly blending elements of mystery, romance, and supernatural intrigue. With a focus on character development and the gradual unraveling of hidden truths, the book sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Maya's abilities, the dynamics between the town's residents, and the looming presence of the St. Cloud Corporation. As readers are pulled into the story's web of secrets and revelations, they are left anticipating the next installment that promises to delve further into the complexities of Maya's world and the connections between the characters.
Dad disappeared into the shed where I keep the wounded and orphaned animals he finds on the park grounds. I fix them up and release them if I can, or pass them onto a wildlife center if I can’t. They ... - #2
'Rebel of the Sands' by Alwyn Hamilton is a fantasy novel set in a sultanate with a blend of American Old West elements. The story follows Amani, a sharpshooter disguising herself as a boy, who joins forces with Jin, a fugitive, to escape her town and avoid an arranged marriage. As they navigate a world of rebellion, magic, and mythical creatures, their journey is filled with daring escapes, gunfights, and a touch of romance. The book combines elements of Arabian mythology and Western themes, creating a unique and adventurous tale that captivates readers.
The plot of 'Rebel of the Sands' is fast-paced and filled with non-stop action, making it an engaging and thrilling read. The world-building, blending Middle Eastern and Wild West influences, adds depth and richness to the story, creating a unique setting for the characters to navigate. The characters, particularly Amani, are well-developed and relatable, with flaws and complexities that add depth to the narrative. The book offers a mix of adventure, romance, and rebellion, making it a captivating and mystical journey for readers.
I slid from Blue’s saddle and tethered her to a post behind some bar called the Dusty Mouth. The kid sitting against the fence was sizing me up suspiciously. Or maybe that was just his two black eyes.... - #3
'Tithe' by Holly Black follows the story of Kaye, a rebellious teenager who finds herself entangled in the world of faeries after moving back to her grandmother's house. As Kaye interacts with various faeries, she becomes embroiled in a battle between two factions of the fae. The book explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the blurred lines between good and evil in the faerie realm. The writing style is described as dark and modern, with a focus on urban fantasy elements and intricate world-building that delves into the complexities of faerie politics.
The old merry-go-round building had been semi-abandoned for years. Angelic lead faces, surrounded by rays of hair, divided the broken panes. The entire front of it was windowed, revealing the dirt flo... - #4
Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge is a dark and gothic retelling of Beauty and the Beast intertwined with Greek mythology. The story follows Nyx, who is raised to hate the demon lord Ignifex, whom she is destined to marry and kill as part of a bargain made by her father. As Nyx navigates her new life with Ignifex, she discovers that things are not as black and white as she was led to believe, leading to a complex and intricate plot filled with suspense, romance, and dark characters. The book features witty banter, a constantly changing castle, and a love triangle involving Shade, Ignifex's shadow.
The day before the wedding, I could barely breathe. Fear and fury curdled in my stomach. All afternoon I skulked in the library, running my hands over the leather spines of books I would never touch a... - #5
The Demon King by Cinda Williams Chima is a high fantasy novel set in the Queendom of Fells, where tensions run high between mountain clans, wizards, and non-magical valefolk. The story follows two main protagonists, Han Alister and Princess Raisa, as they navigate their own challenges and desires in a world filled with magic, danger, and political intrigue. The plot alternates between the perspectives of Han, a former street gang leader, and Princess Raisa, the heir to the throne, as they each strive to find their own paths while facing threats and uncertainties in their society.
The Demon King weaves together elements of coming-of-age narratives, political struggles, and magical conflicts to create a rich and complex world. The story unfolds with a mix of action, plot-driven intrigue, and slowly revealed details that keep readers engaged and eager to see how the characters' paths will intertwine. As Han and Raisa's stories converge, readers are drawn into a world where power dynamics, personal choices, and the consequences of past actions shape the destinies of the main characters.
Han Alister squatted next to the steaming mud spring, praying that the thermal crust would hold his weight. He’d tied a bandana over his mouth and nose, but his eyes still stung and teared from the su... - #6
A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray follows Gemma Doyle, a young girl who discovers her supernatural powers after her mother's death in colonial India. Sent to a boarding school in England, Gemma forms friendships with fellow students and delves into the mysteries surrounding her visions and magical abilities. The book combines elements of fantasy, mystery, and romance set against the backdrop of Victorian England, exploring themes of power, friendship, and the struggle against societal norms.
I am staring into the hissing face of a cobra. A surprisingly pink tongue slithers in and out of a cruel mouth while an Indian man whose eyes are the blue of blindness inclines his head toward my moth... - #7
In "Dance of Thieves," readers are introduced to Kazi, a former street thief turned soldier, and Jase, the ruler of the realm they find themselves in. Their encounter leads to a captivating enemies-to-lovers journey filled with forced proximity, secrets, and a dance of hidden motives. As they navigate political intrigue and personal desires, the story unfolds with elements of romance, deception, and unexpected twists.
The narrative weaves a tale of shifting loyalties, betrayals, and intricate world-building, showcasing the author's storytelling prowess. Set in a familiar world from "The Remnant Chronicles," the book follows Kazi and Jase on a perilous journey where they must confront their pasts, navigate treacherous paths, and unravel the mysteries that entwine their fates.
We rode through Sentinel Valley, ruins of the Ancients looking down upon us. My horse’s ears pricked, watchful, a rumble deep from his throat. He knew too. I rubbed his neck to calm him. It had been s... - #8
The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a novel set in an alternate world where the Valorians have conquered and enslaved the Herrani. The story revolves around Kestrel, the Valorians general's daughter, and her slave, Arin, as they navigate a growing bond amidst secrets and betrayal. The plot centers around a secret plan and uprising of slaves, with elements of politics, intrigue, and secrets intertwined with a slow-burning development and lush depictions of society life and the harsh realities of slavery.
“Stay,” said another, but Kestrel cinched her wrist-strap velvet purse shut. The sun had lowered, and caramelized the color of things, which meant that she had played cards long enough to be noticed b... - #9
'Bitten' by Kelley Armstrong follows the story of Elena Michaels, the only female werewolf known to the American Pack. Elena struggles to balance her desire for a normal life with the challenges of being a werewolf. As she navigates complex relationships and faces dangerous threats, the plot unfolds with a mix of supernatural elements, romance, and action. The writing style is engaging, with strong character development and a focus on revealing the characters' histories and motivations gradually, creating a world that is both intriguing and grounded.
I stood at the door before ringing the bell. It was Mother’s Day and I was standing at a door holding a present, which would have been quite normal if it was a present for my mother. But my mother was... - #10
In the book 'Graceling' by Kristin Cashore, readers are introduced to a world where people known as gracelings possess extraordinary abilities such as mind reading and exceptional fighting skills. The story follows the protagonist Katsa, a skilled killer graced with fighting abilities who struggles with her own inner turmoil and questions her place in the world. When Katsa meets Prince Po, another graceling with unique powers, they embark on a quest to uncover the mystery surrounding King Leck, leading to unexpected plot twists and revelations that challenge their beliefs and abilities. The book features a blend of action, adventure, romance, and well-developed characters set against a backdrop of seven kingdoms and a compelling narrative style that keeps readers engaged.
IN THESE DUNGEONS the darkness was complete, but Katsa had a map in her mind. One that had so far proven correct, as Oll's maps tended to do. Katsa ran her hand along the cold walls and counted doors ...