Books Like...

In Blood Standard, Laird Barron introduces us to Isaiah Coleridge, a former mob enforcer from Alaska who finds himself in upstate New York investigating a disappearance. The book seamlessly blends elements of noir and crime fiction, showcasing Barron's talent for creating vivid settings and complex characters. As Isaiah delves into the mystery, his unique skill set and contemplative nature are put to the test, leading to a thrilling narrative filled with action, intrigue, and unexpected twists. The writing style is described as lyrical and atmospheric, with a focus on character development and immersive world-building that sets it apart from traditional thrillers.

The novel 'The Hollow Ones' by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan centers around an FBI agent teaming up with a mysterious 'occult detective' to prevent a potential worldwide disaster. The story is a mix of supernatural elements, magic, mysticism, and monsters, delving into the realms of horror and thriller genres. Flashbacks to different time periods are used to provide necessary background and create a fast-paced and engaging narrative. The writing style is well-crafted, with a good balance of supernatural elements that do not become too unbelievable, reminiscent of HP Lovecraft tales.

In Lauren Beukes' 'Broken Monsters', the story unfolds in a broken Detroit, intertwining the lives of a diverse set of characters including a detective, her daughter, a failed journalist, a church worker, and a disturbed artist. As a young boy's mutilated body is discovered, the narrative delves into a complex web of events involving a supernatural element, online journalism, teenage friendships, and the dark desires of a killer artist. Beukes expertly weaves together multiple storylines, exploring themes of urban decay, media saturation, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.

The writing style in 'Broken Monsters' is described as engaging, fast-paced, and gripping, with vividly real characters and a compelling plot that keeps readers hooked. Beukes' narrative approach immerses the reader in the haunting setting of Detroit, painting a vivid picture of a city in turmoil while exploring dark themes such as mental illness, misogyny, and the destructive power of social media. The book blends elements of crime thriller, horror, and social commentary, offering a multifaceted portrayal of a city grappling with darkness and decay.

Ancestor by Scott Sigler is a thrilling science fiction horror novel that explores the consequences of genetic experimentation gone wrong. Set in a biotech firm called Genada, the story follows researchers who create a genetically engineered creature, known as the Ancestor, to serve as an incubator for transplantable organs. However, when the project takes a dark turn due to greed and hubris, the researchers find themselves trapped in a deadly situation, hunted by monstrous predators and their psychotic colleagues. The book is fast-paced, taut, and exciting, blending elements of science, horror, and action to create a gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Sigler's writing style in Ancestor showcases a blend of complex narrative, character interaction, and suspense-building, reminiscent of a screenplay. While the novel features heroes, villains, high-octane action sequences, and scenes of suspense, some readers feel that it falls short of being the engaging sci-fi action horror novel it could have been. The book delves into themes of power struggle between humans and genetically engineered creatures, offering a rollercoaster ride of terror, science, and thrills that will keep readers engrossed until the end.

'Worse Angels' by Laird Barron is the third installment in the Isaiah Coleridge series, offering a dark and pulpy noir narrative. The author's writing style is praised for its rich prose and unique storytelling, blending folklore, mythology, reality, and human nature. The plot delves into cosmic horror, introducing mysterious elements and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged.

'Black Mountain' in the Isaiah Coleridge series by Laird Barron is a crime thriller with elements of cosmic horror. The protagonist, Isaiah Coleridge, a former hitman turned private detective, is tasked with solving a brutal crime involving mob men. The story unfolds with suspense and dark philosophical undertones, as Isaiah navigates through the crime-ridden world with connections to the New York mob scene and encounters supernatural elements reminiscent of Lovecraftian horror. The writing style is described as elegant, reminiscent of John Connolly, carrying the reader through a fast-paced plot with moments of snappy dialogue and supplementary escapades, ultimately leading to a dark conclusion.

"Every Dead Thing" by John Connolly follows the story of Charlie Parker, a former detective whose wife and daughter were brutally murdered. The book delves into Parker's quest for justice as he investigates a series of gruesome crimes, encountering a twisted serial killer known as the Traveling Man. The plot is described as dark and gripping, with elements of horror and supernatural woven into a gritty crime thriller. The writing style is praised for its atmospheric and detailed descriptions, creating a mood that immerses the reader into the world of Charlie Parker as he navigates through a complex web of mysteries and suspense.

'London Falling' by Paul Cornell is a dark and gritty urban fantasy police procedural novel that follows a team of police detectives who gain the ability to see the supernatural side of London after encountering a ritual crime scene. The story delves into the investigation of mysterious deaths related to ancient witchcraft practices and a centuries-old football feud, blending elements of horror and police procedural with a touch of the supernatural. The writing style is fast-paced, compelling, and filled with intricate details that intertwine the complex lives of the detectives with the eldritch magic they uncover.

'Tropic of Night' by Michael Gruber follows the protagonist Jane Doe, a former anthropologist who goes into hiding under a new identity in Miami. As a series of ritualistic murders terrify the city, Cuban American police detective Jimmy Paz gets involved in the investigation, leading to a cataclysmic battle between good and unimaginable evil. The plot weaves through Africa, Siberia, and Miami, blending elements of African sorcery, voodooism, and supernatural powers, creating an enthralling and gripping tale of mystery and horror. The narrative alternates between first-person accounts, historical diaries, and traditional third-person storytelling, providing a deep and broad exploration of voodoo, mysticism, and anthropological expeditions.

Legion by William Peter Blatty is a sequel to The Exorcist, where Lieutenant Kinderman investigates a series of brutal murders reminiscent of the Zodiac Killer. The book delves into themes of good and evil, religious imagery, and philosophical contemplation, all while keeping the reader on edge with its mysterious and gruesome plot. Blatty's writing style combines elements of a crime novel, a horror story, and a murder mystery, creating a unique and engaging narrative that challenges the reader's expectations.