Books Like...
In "The Apple-Tree Throne" by Premee Mohamed, the story follows Lieutenant Benjamin Braddock, a survivor of war haunted by the ghost of his dishonored commander, Major General Theodore Wickersley. Braddock returns home to the Greater Republic of Britannia, struggling with survivors' guilt and a leg injury, only to be taken in by Wickersley's family who want him to replace their deceased son. The novella delves into themes of grief, trauma, and fitting into a world that no longer feels familiar, all set in an alternate Edwardian-era England with elements of gothic and steampunk genres. The narrative is described as poetic, melancholic, and elegantly crafted, with a focus on the emotional exploration of war's horrors and its lasting impact on individuals.
If you liked The Apple-Tree Throne, here are the top 4 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'And What Can We Offer You Tonight' by Premee Mohamed is a novella set in a murky, dystopian future where class divisions, indentured servitude, and a power echelon control society. The story follows a courtesan, exploring themes of humanity, personhood, and freedom through characters involved in sex work. The writing style is described as lyrical and flourishing, painting a picture of a world that feels both haunting and strangely familiar, like a dream that leaves a lasting impression.
- #2
Save:The Watchmaker of Filigree Street by Natasha Pulley is a historical fiction novel set in late 19th-century London and Japan. The story follows Thaniel Steepleton, a civil servant who encounters a mysterious Japanese watchmaker named Keita Mori, whose intricate clockwork inventions seem to hold predictive powers. As Thaniel's life becomes intertwined with Mori's, they navigate through threats of bombings and clairvoyance, while also getting involved with independent scientist Grace Carrow. The novel delves into themes of time, relationships, and societal expectations in a steampunk-infused setting filled with captivating clockwork inventions.
The Home Office telegraphy department always smelled of tea. The source was one packet of Lipton’s at the back of Nathaniel Steepleton’s desk drawer. Before the widespread use of the electric telegrap... - #3
Save:Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi is a unique and compelling novel that delves into the experiences of Ada, a young woman with multiple personalities shaped by trauma and traditional Igbo spirituality. The book explores themes of internal conflict, mental illness, and self-discovery through the lens of Ada's relationships with the spirits inhabiting her body. The narrative is described as raw, visceral, and deeply disturbing, with a focus on Ada's struggles to navigate her identity and existence between two worlds.
We were three and she was a snake, coiled up on the tile in the bathroom, waiting. But we had spent the last few years believing our body—thinking that our mother was someone different, a thin human w... - #4
Save:'A Night in the Lonesome October' by Roger Zelazny is a whimsical and dark fantasy mystery that takes place during the month of October. The story follows a dog named Snuff, the familiar of a man named Jack, as they navigate a world filled with classic literary and movie monsters preparing for a ritual on Halloween night. Each chapter covers a day in October, leading up to the final confrontation where the fate of the world hangs in the balance. Zelazny weaves together famous characters like Jack the Ripper, Sherlock Holmes, and Lovecraft's Elder Gods in a humorous and immersive narrative style.
The book is known for its unique storytelling perspective, being narrated by a dog named Snuff, and for its clever incorporation of various horror and detective story elements. The plot unfolds gradually, with hints and clues scattered throughout the narrative, creating an engaging and suspenseful reading experience that culminates in a dark and eerie climax on Halloween night.
We were out again last night in pursuit of more ingredients for the Great Work. It was very foggy, and there were many patrolmen about. This did not stop us, but it made things more difficult. The mas...
