Books Like...

In "Never Have I Ever" by Joshilyn Jackson, the story revolves around Amy, a woman with a dark secret from her past that is threatened to be exposed by a newcomer named Roux. As Roux manipulates and blackmails Amy, a dangerous game of cat and mouse ensues, leading to a thrilling and suspenseful narrative. The book explores themes of secrets, deception, and the lengths one would go to protect their loved ones, all while keeping readers engaged with unexpected plot twists and well-developed characters.

The writing style of Joshilyn Jackson in "Never Have I Ever" is described as captivating and fast-paced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns. The book delves into complex relationships and moral dilemmas, creating a suspenseful atmosphere that builds towards a thrilling conclusion. Readers are drawn into a web of secrets and deviousness, making it difficult to put the book down until the final page is turned.

Catherine House is a prestigious and exclusive college hidden in the woods where students are offered full scholarships and a chance at a prestigious career. The story follows Ines, a student running from her past, who finds herself drawn into the mysterious and unsettling world of Catherine House. The setting is described as gothic and eerie, with elements of mystery, mind control, and secret experiments, creating a dreamlike and unsettling atmosphere. The plot revolves around the students' isolation from the outside world, the unconventional curriculum, and the hidden agenda within the school's walls.

If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio is a dark and suspenseful novel set in an eccentric conservatory college where seven fourth-year acting students are deeply immersed in Shakespearean theater. The story unfolds through the memories of Oliver, who has just been released from prison after serving a ten-year sentence for a crime that is gradually revealed. The book delves into the relationships, secrets, and tragedies that unfold among the students, all while incorporating Shakespearean quotes and themes throughout the narrative. The writing style is described as captivating, emotionally arresting, and filled with tension, making the book a thrilling and engrossing read.

Black Chalk by Christopher J. Yates is a psychological thriller that revolves around six college friends who create a high-stakes game of consequences during their time at Oxford University. The narrative switches between the present day and their college days, exploring the escalating psychological challenges and consequences faced by the characters. The book delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, and the long-term impacts of youthful recklessness, all while keeping readers engaged with its intricate plot and alternating viewpoints.

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller that follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a renowned artist who is found with her dead husband, tied to a chair and shot multiple times in the face. Alicia never speaks again and is sent to a mental institution. Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist, takes a job at the facility to treat Alicia and unravel her secrets. The book is filled with twists and turns, red herrings, and a surprising conclusion, making it a gripping and engaging read.

The novel is centered around the relationship between Alicia, the silent patient, and Theo, the psychotherapist determined to make her speak. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia's case, the story unfolds through entries from Alicia's diary and Theo's own perspective. The plot weaves together themes of mental illness, trauma, and suspense, keeping the readers guessing until the unexpected twist at the end. The Silent Patient explores complex characters and intricate storytelling, making it a compelling and thought-provoking thriller.

'The Likeness' by Tana French is a psychological thriller that follows Detective Cassie Maddox as she goes undercover to impersonate a murder victim who bears a striking resemblance to her. The story delves into identity, manipulation, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. The plot is described as tense, unusual, and filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged. French's writing style is noted for its atmospheric and moody tone, reminiscent of authors like Donna Tartt and P.D. James.

'Special Topics in Calamity Physics' by Marisha Pessl follows the story of Blue van Meer, an intelligent adolescent who moves to a small liberal arts college community with her college professor father. Befriended by a high school teacher and four students under her influence, Blue uncovers the true nature of those around her. The book is filled with literary and film references, written in a unique 'faux' research paper style, with a labyrinthine plot that keeps readers engaged despite its length. The writing style is described as clever, witty, and filled with endless references and allusions, showcasing the author's intelligence and imagination.

In "In My Dreams I Hold A Knife" by Ashley Winstead, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through the lives of the East House Seven, a group of former college friends haunted by a murder that occurred ten years ago. The narrative unfolds in dual timelines, expertly weaving together the reunion of the friends in the present day and the events of the past. As secrets resurface and tensions rise, the reader is drawn into a complex web of lies, betrayals, and hidden motives, culminating in a gripping whodunnit mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end.

The author, Ashley Winstead, delves deep into the complexities of human relationships and the dark underbelly of the characters' lives. Through poetic prose and well-timed twists, Winstead creates a narrative that is both heartbreakingly raw and brutally honest, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and the weight of past secrets that can tear people apart. The story is a commentary on the human condition, revealing the inner turmoil and hidden truths that shape the characters' actions and relationships.

These Violent Delights by Micah Nemerever is a dark and intense novel that follows the complex and twisted relationship between two young men, Paul and Julian. The story is set in 1970s Pittsburgh and delves into the deepening bond between Paul, a shy and artistic working-class student, and Julian, a wealthy and charismatic individual. As their friendship evolves into a passionate love affair, it spirals into obsession and violence, leading to a series of destructive events. The narrative unfolds through Paul's perspective, offering a raw and intimate portrayal of their tumultuous relationship and the psychological turmoil they both experience.

The novel is praised for its beautifully wicked prose, compelling character development, and the atmospheric content that immerses readers into the story. It explores themes of love, obsession, identity, and the destructive nature of relationships, culminating in a gripping and harrowing narrative that delves into the depths of human emotions and complexities. These Violent Delights is a psychological thriller that intricately weaves together elements of suspense, darkness, and profound character dynamics, creating a haunting and unforgettable reading experience.

Set at a private girls' high school in the Adirondacks, 'The Lake of Dead Languages' follows Jane Hudson, a Latin teacher who returns to her alma mater, where she uncovers buried secrets from her past. The story intertwines past tragedies with present mysteries, creating a suspenseful and gothic atmosphere that keeps readers engaged. The plot revolves around a series of suicides that seem to be repeating, with Jane at the center of the unfolding events, leading to a chilling and intriguing narrative. The writing style is described as atmospheric, with a strong sense of foreboding and suspense that captures the reader's attention.