Books Like...
'Under the Skin' by Michel Faber is a dark and disturbing novel that follows the story of Isserley, a female driver who cruises the Scottish Highlands looking for muscular male hitchhikers. The plot takes unexpected twists and turns, delving into themes of humanity, dehumanization, and the exploitation of the other. The writing style is described as beautifully imagined, thought-provoking, and suspenseful, keeping readers on edge as they uncover the mysteries within the narrative.
The book explores the concept of what it means to be human, the moral boundaries of slaughter, and the complexities of identity and mercy. It presents a unique perspective on modern life, turning societal norms upside down and challenging readers to contemplate deeper questions about equality, sacrifice, and the essence of humanity. Faber's narrative weaves together elements of science fiction, horror, and social commentary, creating a compelling and unsettling story that lingers in the minds of readers long after they have finished the book.
If you liked Under the Skin, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:"Baby Teeth" by Zoje Stage is a chilling psychological horror novel that delves into the disturbing relationship between a mother, Suzette, and her mute 7-year-old daughter, Hanna. The story unfolds through alternating chapters narrated by Suzette and Hanna, revealing Hanna's dark desires to eliminate her mother and have her father all to herself. As the plot progresses, the tension escalates, showcasing Hanna's manipulative and devious nature, leading to a terrifying and unsettling narrative. The book explores themes of obsession, parental love, and the thin line between fear and affection in a gripping and intense writing style that keeps readers on edge.
MAYBE THE MACHINE could see the words she never spoke. Maybe they blazed in her bones. Maybe if the people in the white coats blew up the pictures they’d see her thoughts, mapped like mountains and ra... - #2
Save:'Method 15/33' by Shannon Kirk tells the gripping tale of a pregnant teen, Lisa, who is abducted by criminals planning to sell her baby. Lisa's unique ability to turn off her emotions and her brilliant analytical mind make her a fascinating character. The story is narrated from two perspectives - Lisa herself and the FBI agent handling the abduction case. The plot is compelling, with a steady pace and true psychological suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
I lay there on the fourth day plotting his death. Compiling assets in a list in my mind, I found relief in the planning…a loose floor board, a red knit blanket, a high window, exposed beams, a keyhole... - #3
Save:Good Me, Bad Me by Ali Land is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark and disturbing world of a young girl named Milly, who is placed in foster care after turning her serial killer mother over to the police. The book follows Milly's struggles with her past, her inner demons, and her desire to build a new life while dealing with the challenges of her temporary foster family and preparing to testify against her mother in court. The story is gripping, chilling, and explores themes of abuse, trauma, identity, and the complexities of human nature.
His hand – I noticed a slight tremor as it reached for the telephone. Come now, he said. You need to hear this. The silent waiting for his superior to arrive. Bearable for me. Less so for him. A hundr... - #4
Save:In the book 'Bird Box' by Josh Malerman, the story revolves around a post-apocalyptic world where mysterious creatures drive people to madness and violence upon sight. The main character, Malorie, is pregnant and seeks refuge with other survivors in a safe house, where all windows are covered, and going outside requires being blindfolded. The narrative unfolds in two timelines - the past, focusing on Malorie's time in the safe house and raising her children, and the present, as she navigates down a river in search of a safe haven. The writing style is described as weird, bizarre, but entertaining, interweaving past and present seamlessly to create a suspenseful and gripping tale.
Her hands are damp. She is trembling. She taps her toe nervously on the cracked tile floor. It is early; the sun is probably only peeking above the horizon. She watches its meagre light turn the heavy... - #5
Save:Mind of Winter by Laura Kasischke is a psychological thriller that takes place on a snowy Christmas day, focusing on the mother-daughter relationship between Holly Judge and her adopted daughter Tatiana. The story unfolds as Holly wakes up with a sense of dread, believing that something has followed them home from Russia, leading to a day filled with mysterious events, eerie behavior, and a growing sense of unease. The narrative alternates between present-day events and past memories, gradually revealing a haunting mystery that keeps the reader guessing until the shocking conclusion. Kasischke's writing style is described as atmospheric, poetic, and suspenseful, effectively capturing the protagonist's inner turmoil and creating a claustrophobic and creepy atmosphere.
For thirteen years she’d known this, and not known—or so it seemed to her in her half-awake state on Christmas morning. She rose from bed and went down the hallway to her daughter’s bedroom, anxious t... - #6
Save:'A Head Full of Ghosts' by Paul Tremblay is a psychological horror novel that delves into the blurred lines between reality and supernatural occurrences. The story follows the Barrett family, particularly focusing on Marjorie, a teenage girl whose behavior raises questions of whether she is suffering from mental illness or is truly possessed by a malevolent force. The narrative is presented through multiple perspectives, including Merry, Marjorie's younger sister, who recounts the events of their past, intertwined with elements of reality TV, exorcism, and the psychological unraveling of the family.
The writing style of 'A Head Full of Ghosts' is described as gripping and unsettling, with a multi-layered plot that keeps readers guessing until the shocking conclusion. Tremblay's ability to weave together themes of horror, family dynamics, and societal influences creates a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the final page is turned. The narrative is structured in a way that challenges readers to question their perceptions of what is real and what lies beyond the realm of the tangible, making it a thought-provoking and immersive read.
Best-selling author Rachel Neville wears a perfect fall ensemble: dark blue hat to match her sensible knee-length skirt and a beige wool jacket with buttons as large as kitten heads. She carefully att... - #7
Save:After giving birth to twin boys, Lauren is confronted by a creepy woman in the maternity ward asking to swap babies. The babies seem to go missing in the park one day and when they are found, they've been replaced by creatures called changelings who resemble her twins but are not the same. Policewoman Harper believes Lauren's claims and investigates whether it is a sinister fairy tale or postpartum psychosis. The book weaves elements of folklore, horror, and psychological suspense, keeping the reader uncertain about the magical element or Lauren's imagination.
All she cared about was that the pain had been taken away. With it, the fear, and the certainty that she would die, all gone in the space of a few miraculous seconds. She wanted to drift off but then ... - #8
Save:'Meat' by Joseph D'Lacey is a dark and disturbing tale set in a dystopian society where the concept of cannibalism is explored in a horrifying manner. The plot revolves around a post-disaster world where humans are raised as meat in a slaughterhouse-like setting, delving into themes of dehumanization and moral decay. Readers have described the book as extremely eerie, thought-provoking, and disturbing, with a narrative that lingers in their minds long after reading. The writing style is often praised for its depth, world-building, and the ability to evoke strong emotions and reactions from the audience.
Step after crushing step, his breath falling in and out of strange rhythms with the pounding of his feet. Mucus building at the back of his throat – the only moisture left in his body. His legs altern... - #9
Save:In Help for the Haunted by John Searles, Sylvie and Rose are teenage sisters whose parents, known for helping haunted individuals, are mysteriously murdered. The story unfolds through flashbacks and present-day events, exploring the family dynamics, the murder mystery, and the sisters' quest for answers. The writing style includes vivid imagery, nonlinear storytelling, and a mix of paranormal elements with a focus on family relationships and character development.
My mother picked up on the first ring so as not to wake my sister, if she was home, or me. In hushed tones, she soothed the caller before handing the phone to my father. His voice was stiffer, more fo... - #10
Save:Set in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, "The Marsh King's Daughter" follows the gripping story of Helena, who was born to a mother who had been kidnapped and sequestered by her father, known as the Marsh King. Raised in isolation, Helena grows up with the knowledge that her father is a notorious child abductor, but she adores him despite his cruel and abusive nature. The plot explores Helena's past and present as she navigates the complexities of her upbringing, her escape from captivity, and the looming threat of her father's escape from prison.
The narrative alternates between Helena's childhood experiences in the marshlands and her present-day life as a wife and mother, creating a suspenseful and engaging storyline. As Helena grapples with her conflicting emotions towards her father and confronts the dark secrets of her past, the reader is drawn into a tale of survival, family bonds, and the enduring impact of trauma across generations.
Wait here,” I tell my three-year-old. I lean through the truck’s open window to fish between her booster seat and the passenger door for the plastic sippy cup of lukewarm orange juice she threw in a f...
