Books Like...

'The Ides of March' by Thornton Wilder is a historical fiction novel set in the last year of Julius Caesar's life. The story is told through a combination of letters, diary entries, and official documents, exploring the events leading up to Caesar's assassination and his interactions with historical figures like Cleopatra. The novel delves into deeper questions about man's role in the universe, the nature of power, and destiny. Wilder's writing style includes detailed historical references, philosophical musings, and intricate character relationships, creating a complex narrative structure that challenges readers to engage with the story on multiple levels.

"Bone Dance" by Emma Bull is a dystopian tale set in a post-apocalyptic Minneapolis, following a character named Sparrow who is a trader dealing in pre-nuke videos. Sparrow gets entangled in a quest to uncover information about the Horsemen, a mysterious group with mind control abilities. The story combines elements of science fiction with magic, exploring themes of self-acceptance, self-love, and the necessity of change in a society grappling with the aftermath of a catastrophic event. The writing style is described as dense, focusing on intricate characters and relationships, with a mix of voodoo mythology, post-apocalyptic America, and shifting identities.

'Griffin & Sabine: An Extraordinary Correspondence' by Nick Bantock is a unique and enchanting story that unfolds through letters and postcards exchanged between two artists, Griffin and Sabine, who have never met but share a psychic connection. The plot revolves around the mysterious and magical correspondence between the two characters, where the readers get to physically interact with the letters and postcards by removing them from envelopes to read, adding an intimate touch to the storytelling. is a blend of art and novel, offering a tactile reading experience that delves into the relationship between the characters and their shared artistic experiences, creating a mesmerizing and immersive journey for the readers.

Written in an epistolary format, 'Griffin & Sabine' provides readers with a visually stunning and psychologically intriguing narrative that combines beautiful artwork with a love story told through correspondence. showcases the evolving relationship between Griffin and Sabine through their written exchanges, inviting readers to explore the depths of their connection and the mysteries surrounding their bond. With elements of magic, romance, and suspense, the story captivates readers by offering a glimpse into the private world of the characters through their letters and postcards, creating a one-of-a-kind reading experience that is both captivating and unforgettable.

"Dangerous Liaisons" by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos is an epistolary novel that includes multiple characters writing to each other, each with unique points of view and goals. The book revolves around two manipulative narcissists who take on a bet to destroy people around them, showcasing intrigues, manipulations, treachery, promiscuity, and horribleness. The story is set in the 18th century and features characters that may live in a different era but feel very real, engaging readers with its psychological games, slow pay off of revenge, and toxic, narcissistic relationships.

'The Documents in the Case' by Dorothy L. Sayers is a unique murder mystery novel that is presented through a series of letters, statements, and newspaper reports. The book delves into the lives of a group of characters living in a house, exploring their relationships, secrets, and ultimately, a mysterious death. The writing style, devoid of a traditional narrator, intricately weaves together the different perspectives and documents to engage the reader in solving the intriguing murder case.

The plot of 'The Documents in the Case' revolves around uncovering the truth behind a suspicious death in a Devon shack, where an expert on poisonous fungi is found dead. Through the various documents presented in the book, readers are given clues to unravel the mystery, leading to a surprising and ingenious solution. Dorothy L. Sayers' writing style in this novel offers a fresh and unconventional approach to storytelling, captivating readers with its complex characters and intricate plot.

In The Sorcerer's House by Gene Wolfe, the story unfolds through letters written by the protagonist, Baxter Dunn, who finds himself unexpectedly gifted a haunted house in an out-of-the-way town. As Baxter navigates the mysterious happenings surrounding his new residence, he encounters strange creatures, delves into his family history, and confronts his twin brother. The narrative is described as layered, complex, and ultimately ambiguous, with a deceptive simplicity despite the clarity of the language used. The book is praised for its imaginative glimpses into the supernatural, the unreliable narrator, and the intriguing plot twists that keep readers engaged.

Meet Me at the Museum by Anne Youngson is a heartwarming and charming epistolary novel that follows the correspondence between Tina, an English farmer's wife, and Anders, a museum curator in Denmark. Through their letters, they share their inner thoughts, feelings, and daily lives, ultimately forming a deep connection and friendship. The story unfolds as these two individuals, both experiencing heartbreak and seeking solace, find comfort and healing in their communication, leading to unexpected support during times of crisis. The gentle and intimate exchange of letters gradually reveals the characters' hopes, tragedies, and reflections on life, creating a touching narrative of connection and understanding.

Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot by Patricia C. Wrede is a delightful novel set in Regency England, where two cousins and best friends, Kate and Cecy, exchange letters about their adventures post Napoleonic war. The book captures the essence of the Regency era with a touch of magical realism, making it more compelling than a simple love story. The plot unfolds through a series of letters written by the authors, creating a unique and engaging narrative style. The story revolves around the girls' escapades, mysteries, magical battles, and romantic encounters, all set against a backdrop of Victorian England with a sprinkle of fantasy elements.

'His Bloody Project' by Graeme Macrae Burnet is a historical crime novel set in the Scottish Highlands during the late nineteenth century. The book takes the unique form of a collection of documents, including witness statements, confessions, and trial accounts, all related to the brutal murder of three members of the Mackenzie family. Through these various documents, the author explores themes of poverty, class distinctions, religion, and the harsh realities of life in a rural Scottish community. The novel delves into the motivations behind the murders, the mental state of the accused, and the impact of the trial on the small village of Culduie.

'Dear Committee Members' by Julie Schumacher is an epistolary novel that follows the life of Jason Fitger, a disillusioned and sarcastic English professor at a small liberal arts university. The story is uniquely told through a series of letters of recommendation written by Fitger to various recipients, providing insights into his personal life, academic struggles, and interactions with colleagues and students. Despite the humorous and satirical tone of the letters, a deeper narrative unfolds, shedding light on the challenges faced in academia, the value of literature, and the complexities of human relationships.