Books Like...

'The Virtue of Sin' by Shannon Schuren delves into the intriguing world of a cult known as New Jerusalem, where the leader, Daniel, exerts control over his followers to maintain order and obedience. Through the alternating perspectives of Miriam and Caleb, readers witness the aftermath of a forced separation, uncovering secrets within the community and questioning the authority of the supposed prophet. The story explores themes of finding one's voice, challenging beliefs, and the struggle for independence within a repressive environment, all while navigating the complexities of young love and the consequences of defying established norms.

'Gather the Daughters' by Jennie Melamed is set on an isolated island where a strict society follows laws passed down by their ancestors. The story follows a group of young girls on the brink of womanhood who start questioning the rules and traditions that govern their lives, leading to rebellion and despair. The narrative unfolds with a quiet eeriness, exploring themes of gender roles, family dynamics, and the consequences of rebelling against an oppressive system. The writing style is described as articulate, gentle yet disturbing, and it delves into dark subject matters such as incestuous relationships and the control of women's bodies.

When She Woke by Hillary Jordan is a dystopian novel set in a not so distant future America where the evangelical right has taken over the government. The story follows Hannah Payne, a woman convicted of murder after having an abortion, resulting in her skin being dyed red as punishment. The narrative explores themes of religious fundamentalism, women's rights, the intertwining of church and state, and the societal implications of government control over personal choices. Jordan's writing style captivates readers with a chilling and thought-provoking storyline that delves into the complexities of faith, ethics, and personal freedom in a repressive society.

"Undersea" by Geoffrey Morrison is a post-apocalyptic science fiction novel set on a water planet where the remnants of humanity reside in giant submarines and undersea domes. The story follows the conflict between two submarines and the unlikely relationship that forms between a young upper-level girl and a lower-level guy amidst the chaos. The book is praised for its captivating plot, light enough to read for short periods but also engrossing enough to keep readers hooked for hours, with a good balance of action, character development, and world-building.

The Rain trilogy by Joseph Turkot follows the story of a female protagonist who embarks on an epic journey in a world where it rains 24/7 nonstop every day. The series explores a post-apocalyptic setting where the main characters face the challenges of relentless rain, survival, and self-discovery. The writing style is described as descriptive and immersive, allowing readers to feel and visualize the cold and damp environment vividly.

In a future world divided by zones to protect against deadly ticks, 'The Salt Line' by Holly Goddard Jones follows a group of individuals who embark on an outward bound-like excursion beyond the safety of the wall and salt line. The novel delves into their survival story, unexpected twists, and the complex relationships that unfold amidst the dangerous wilderness. The writing style effectively combines elements of dystopian and apocalyptic genres, offering a suspenseful and engaging narrative that keeps readers intrigued.

'Containment' by Christian Cantrell is a science fiction novel set on a Venusian colony where the protagonist, Arik, navigates a mystery surrounding the colony while also dealing with the challenge of increasing oxygen levels to sustain life. The plot unfolds with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged, blending high-tech elements with a storyline that delves into the complexities of planetary colonization. The writing style is described as light and sparse, focusing on Arik's internal experiences and the intricate workings of the colony, creating an engaging and quick read for science fiction enthusiasts.

The Divide by Jeremy Robinson is a post-apocalyptic horror story set in a future where mankind lives primitively and in hiding, separated from a monstrous creature called the Golyat by a massive gorge known as the Divide. The plot follows Davina, who sets out to find her son, a member of a group seeking knowledge of the past, in order to save him from being killed for breaking the prime law. As Davina navigates through the dangerous landscape, she not only encounters the terrifying Golyat and its secrets but also discovers a truth that shakes her to her core. The writing style of the book is fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with suspense, keeping readers hooked from the first page with its intriguing plot and well-developed characters.

Only Ever Yours by Louise O'Neill is a dystopian novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where girls are genetically engineered to become companions, concubines, or chastities for men. The story follows the protagonist, Frieda, as she navigates a society where women are objectified, judged based on their appearance, and trained from birth to please men. The book delves into themes of beauty standards, misogyny, and the dark consequences of societal expectations on women. The writing style is described as dark, thought-provoking, and reflective of our own society's attitudes towards women.

"The Last Girl" by Joe Hart is a dystopian novel set in a world where only boys are being born, leaving the female population on the brink of extinction. The story follows Zoey and five other young women who are held in a government facility where they are subjected to mysterious tests and propaganda. Zoey, with flashes of memories from her past, starts to question the truth behind their captivity and strives to escape, uncovering dark secrets along the way. The plot is gripping, with well-developed characters and a writing style that keeps readers engaged and on the edge of their seats.