Books Like...

Beasts by John Crowley is a science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic United States where genetic engineered human-animal hybrids known as 'leos' are being hunted down by the Union for Social Engineering. The narrative follows multiple characters, including Painter, a leo, and Caddie, a young woman who becomes involved with Painter's pride. The story explores themes of nature versus civilization, the struggle for survival, and the complex relationships between humans and animal hybrids.

Rats and Gargoyles by Mary Gentle is a fantasy novel that offers a unique and engaging premise. The book is known for its deep and convoluted plot, with multiple subplots that challenge the reader's comprehension. The writing style has been described as over convoluted, making it a challenging read for some, but also praised for its imaginative sci-fi elements and the use of Hermetic magic, which brings a sense of realism to the world depicted in the story.

The book follows a complex narrative that requires thinking and attention to detail. Some readers found the book to be a mix of intriguing, disturbing, amusing, and occasionally even erotic. While the world-building is commendable, the internal logic of the story may be difficult to grasp at times, leaving readers struggling to follow the plot and character motivations.

'The Deep' by John Crowley is a unique blend of fantasy and science fiction, where the characters play out their roles in a world full of symbolism and allegory. The story revolves around the android Visitor, who is discovered by the Endwives and becomes embroiled in the complex machinations of the noble houses, the Reds and the Blacks. The society depicted is feudal, with constant power struggles and cyclical conflicts reminiscent of historical events like the English War of the Roses. The writing style is characterized by poetic prose, intricate world-building, and a narrative that slowly reveals the mysterious mission of the Visitor.

The narrative of 'The Deep' unfolds in a methodically structured dance of cyclical timelessness, where characters move across a landscape fashioned like a game. The plot is driven by the intrigue of castle politics, mysterious assassins, and the enigmatic Visitor trying to uncover his purpose in a world filled with symbolic imagery and hidden meanings. Crowley's writing evokes a sense of artificiality and mystery, leaving readers intrigued and engaged as they navigate through the complex and evocative landscape of the story.

Greg Egan creates a world in his novel 'Dichronauts' that is described as weirdly fascinating, with two space dimensions and two time dimensions, making it hard to comprehend for some readers. The novel is a story of exploration in a setting that is both less didactic and much stranger than 'Flatland'. The author's clear and succinct prose style is appreciated by readers who are familiar with Egan's previous works, making it a solid indicator of whether one would enjoy this book.

Always Coming Home by Ursula K. Le Guin is a unique and complex work that immerses readers in a post-apocalyptic world where the Kesh people live in a peaceful, non-hierarchical society focused on communal living and generosity. The book is structured as a collection of tales, poems, songs, and essays, providing a rich tapestry of the Kesh culture set in California in the far future. Through the narrative of characters like Stone Telling and the anthropologist Pandora, readers explore themes of societal structure, environmentalism, and the contrast between different cultures.

'The Library at Mount Char' by Scott Hawkins is a dark fantasy novel that follows Carolyn and her eleven siblings who are raised by Father in the Library. The children are each assigned a specialty to learn, and they are forbidden from questioning Father's commands. As the story unfolds, readers are taken on a journey filled with violence, mystery, and unexpected twists, keeping them engaged until the unpredictable ending. The book introduces a unique world where the characters interact with both the familiar modern America and a parallel fantastical realm, creating a gripping narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy.

The writing style in 'The Library at Mount Char' has been described as original, bizarre, and compelling. Readers have praised the author's ability to create a dark and mysterious atmosphere, with intricate world-building and well-developed characters. Despite the violent and uncomfortable themes present in the book, many have found themselves captivated by the story, staying up late into the night to uncover the secrets of the Library and its inhabitants.

'Cloud Atlas' by David Mitchell is a unique and ambitious novel that weaves together six different stories, each set in a different time period and genre. The stories are interconnected in subtle ways, exploring themes of survival, humanity, and the interconnectedness of events throughout history. The book is known for its complex structure, where the stories are nested within each other, creating a rich tapestry of narratives that range from the 19th century to a post-apocalyptic future.

The writing style of 'Cloud Atlas' is praised for its versatility and ability to adapt to different time frames and genres. David Mitchell's narrative technique involves writing in distinct registers for each period, creating a diverse reading experience that includes elements of historical fiction, science fiction, and political commentary. The novel challenges readers with its non-linear storytelling and intricate connections between the six novellas, ultimately delivering a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and the cyclical nature of history.