Books Like...
Ghost Lights by Lydia Millet is a novel that follows Hal Lindley, an IRS agent who embarks on a journey to Belize to search for his wife's boss, T., who has gone missing in the Central American rainforest. The book delves into themes of existential crisis, infidelity, loss, and human dissolution, all while exploring the complex relationships between the characters. Millet's writing style is characterized by elegant prose, believable dialogue, and dark humor, creating a narrative that keeps readers engaged and intrigued.
If you liked Ghost Lights, here are the top 4 books to read next:
- #1
Save:How the Dead Dream by Lydia Millet is a character study of a man named T. who transitions from a self-centered capitalist to a person with empathy for others and a deep connection to the natural world. The novel explores themes of loss, loneliness, personal growth, and the protagonist's evolving consciousness through encounters with animals close to extinction and personal tragedies. Millet's writing style is described as elegant, sharp, lyrical, and incisive, with a blend of humor and profound insights.
Possibly, T. reflected now and then in the wake of some particularly egregious revelation, Fulton trusted him with the confidences simply because he knew that he, Fulton, represented a primary capital... - #2
Save:'Magnificence' by Lydia Millet revolves around Susan, a woman who inherits a mansion filled with taxidermy after her husband's death, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. The plot intricately weaves themes of love, loss, aging, moving on, and the mystery of everyday life. The writing style is described as magnificent, with witty observations on male behavior, realistic yet absurdist elements, and a unique blend of humor and depth that keeps readers engaged.
It was a stricken love, but still love. It was the kind of love that gazed up at you from the bare white flood of your headlights—a wide-eyed love with the meekness of grass-eaters. Soft fur, pink ton... - #3
Save:'A Children's Bible' by Lydia Millet is a novel that delves into the themes of climate change, generational divide, and parental neglect through the lens of a group of children facing an apocalyptic storm and flood. The story follows the children as they navigate a world where the adults have failed them, forcing them to rely on themselves for survival. The narrative is filled with biblical allusions and allegorical elements, creating a fable-like atmosphere that explores the interconnectedness of humanity and the consequences of ignoring environmental warnings. The writing style is described as simple, dreamlike, and thought-provoking, with layers of symbolism that add depth to the story and engage readers in contemplating the current state of the world.
Even the smallest canoe could take us down to the ocean. We’d paddle across the lake, over a marsh, down a stream, and come to the river’s mouth. Where the water met the sky. We’d run along the beach ... - #4
Save:'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller is a beautifully written reimagining of the Iliad, focusing on the relationship between Achilles and his companion Patroclus. The story is narrated from Patroclus' perspective, starting from their childhood together and leading up to the events of the Trojan War. Miller's writing style is described as poetic and engaging, bringing the characters and mythological elements to life in a captivating manner.
MY FATHER WAS A KING AND THE SON OF KINGS. HE was a short man, as most of us were, and built like a bull, all shoulders. He married my mother when she was fourteen and sworn by the priestess to be fru...
