Books Like...

The Mermaid Murders, the first book in 'The Art of Murder' series by Josh Lanyon, follows FBI agents Jason and Sam as they work on solving a convincing mystery involving a teenage girl's murder. The story is set in an abandoned village with a museum, filled with red herrings, and showcases the development of the main characters, Kennedy and West, as they navigate through their personal growth while unraveling the crime. Lanyon's writing style, characterized by vivid descriptions and engaging dialogues, keeps the readers engaged and on edge as they try to uncover the true culprit behind the crime.

Sebastian Snow, an antiques dealer with a penchant for mysteries, unexpectedly finds a heart under his shop's floorboards, leading him to be entangled in a crime spree inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's stories. As Sebastian navigates the investigation with the help of closeted detective Neil Millett and the intriguing lead investigator Calvin Winter, he also grapples with his complicated love life and attraction to Calvin. The book cleverly integrates references to Poe's works, providing an engaging mystery with unexpected twists and turns, while also delving into the personal struggles and relationships of the main characters.

In 'Spellbound' by Allie Therin, set in 1920s New York City, we follow the story of Arthur Kenzie, a wealthy man seeking magic relics, and Rory Brannigan, a young psychometrist with hidden powers. The book delves into their relationship, Arthur's protective nature, and Rory's fear of being found out. The writing style is described as elegant with a subtle world-building approach that introduces the characters, their vulnerabilities, and the magical elements seamlessly into the historical setting.

"10 Things That Never Happened" by Alexis Hall is a heartwarming story set around Christmas, focusing on the unlikely romance between Jonathan, the grumpy owner of a bed and bath chain, and Sam, his store manager. The plot unfolds as Sam, in a desperate attempt to save his staff, fakes amnesia after an incident involving Jonathan, leading to unexpected developments and deepening relationships. The book is written from Sam's point of view, offering a unique perspective on their growing connection, Jonathan's eccentric family, and the colorful cast of characters in their lives. The writing style blends humor, romance, and emotional depth, creating a compelling narrative that explores love, growth, and the complexities of human relationships.

'Something Fabulous' by Alexis Hall is a regency romance novel that follows the story of Valentine, the Duke of Malvern, and his journey towards self-discovery and happiness. The plot revolves around themes of duty, responsibility, loneliness, and finding love in unexpected places. The writing style combines elements of humor, romance, and adventure, creating a fairy tale-like quality that some readers found engaging while others felt it was unrealistic for the time period.

Adrien English, the protagonist of 'Fatal Shadows', finds himself entangled in a murder mystery when his friend and employee is brutally murdered. As Adrien delves into the investigation himself, suspicions turn towards him, leading to a series of events that unfold with engaging twists and turns. The writing style is described as solid, with a mix of noir tropes and slash fic cliches, making it an enjoyable and nifty little mystery with a gay central character. The book introduces Adrien as a likable and humorous amateur sleuth, and his interactions with characters like Detective Jake Riordan add depth to the plot.

'The Heart's Invisible Furies' follows the life of Cyril Avery, a gay Irish man born out of wedlock in 1945, as he navigates through the challenges of growing up in a conservative Catholic Ireland. The novel spans over 70 years, depicting Cyril's struggles with his identity, relationships, and the societal prejudices he faces. Through vivid storytelling and emotional depth, the book explores themes of family, love, forgiveness, and self-acceptance, set against the backdrop of Ireland's history and cultural norms.

The narrative style of 'The Heart's Invisible Furies' is described as compelling, humorous, poignant, and informative, capturing the reader's attention with its Irish lilt and first-person immediacy. The story unfolds in seven-year intervals, similar to a documentary series, showcasing Cyril's journey from birth to old age, his experiences with love, loss, and acceptance, and the evolving social landscape of Ireland. The novel delves into the hypocrisies of the Catholic Church, the struggles of homosexuality in the mid-20th century, and the complex relationships that shape Cyril's life.

In an alternative version of 2020, 'Red, White & Royal Blue' by Casey McQuiston follows the romantic journey between Alex, the son of the first female president of the United States, and Henry, a prince of England. The book presents a witty, fun, and heartwarming narrative that explores the complex relationship between the two characters as they navigate their love amidst political tensions and personal discoveries. The writing style of the book is engaging, offering a mix of romance, humor, and political drama that creates a compelling and optimistic storyline.

'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller is a beautifully written reimagining of the Iliad, focusing on the relationship between Achilles and his companion Patroclus. The story is narrated from Patroclus' perspective, starting from their childhood together and leading up to the events of the Trojan War. Miller's writing style is described as poetic and engaging, bringing the characters and mythological elements to life in a captivating manner.