Books Like...

Breathers: A Zombie's Lament by S.G. Browne is a humorous and original take on the zombie genre, following the story of Andy, a newly reanimated zombie navigating through his unlife. The book explores Andy's emotional journey as he copes with the loss of his wife, the challenges of being a zombie in a society that reviles them, and his quest for equal rights alongside his undead friends from Undead Anonymous. The writing style is described as fresh, humorous, and at times dark, with a focus on Andy's perspective and his experiences in rediscovering himself and finding love within his therapy group.

The Honeys by Ryan La Sala follows the protagonist, Mars, as he navigates the aftermath of his twin sister's death and delves into the mysterious Aspen Conservancy camp where she spent her summers. The book combines elements of horror, mystery, and queer themes, as Mars uncovers dark secrets about the camp and its enigmatic residents, the Honeys. The writing style is described as atmospheric, intense, and lyrical, pulling readers in with its captivating storytelling and unexpected twists.

"My Dearest Darkest" by Kayla Cottingham is a young adult supernatural horror novel that follows Finch, a teenager who starts a new school on a haunted island after surviving a car accident that killed her parents. The story revolves around Finch's journey of self-discovery and dealing with her sexuality, intertwined with a mysterious and supernatural plot where she, along with her friend Selena and others, summon a creature capable of granting wishes at a deadly cost. The book combines elements of horror, paranormal, queer romance, and coming-of-age themes, set in a creepy New England school with ghosts, cosmic horror, and diverse characters.

The writing style in "My Dearest Darkest" is described as engaging, emotional, and gripping, with a good balance of eerie atmosphere, strong character development, and exploration of important themes like self-acceptance, personal desires, grief, and sexuality. The plot is praised for its mix of mystery, enemies-to-lovers romance, and cryptids, offering a blend of suspense, creepiness, and emotional depth that keeps readers entertained and engaged throughout the story.

The novella 'Bloom' by Delilah S. Dawson follows the story of Rosemary Ro Dutton, a literature professor who visits a local farmer's market in search of magic in her mundane life. There, she encounters Ash, a mysterious and alluring woman who runs a booth selling cupcakes and other goods. As Ro becomes increasingly drawn to Ash, she uncovers dark secrets and unsettling truths about her, leading to a shocking and horrific climax. The narrative is a blend of romance, horror, and suspense, with a focus on the evolving relationship between Ro and Ash, ultimately culminating in a disturbing revelation that changes everything.

I Feed Her to the Beast and the Beast Is Me by Jamison Shea follows Laure, a ballerina navigating a brutal industry. After feeling ostracized and undervalued, she embraces a dark power, opting for revenge instead of defeat. The story highlights issues of race and perfectionism in ballet while showcasing Laure's transformation from an outsider to a confident predator.

The writing is immersive, painting a vivid and twisted world of ballet. Shea's descriptions are captivating, allowing readers to feel the passion and rage of the characters. While the pace may lag at times, the intricate character development and gritty realism keep the reader engaged. The book's unique take on a villain's origin story offers a refreshing perspective, making it an appealing read for those interested in darker tales.

In 'The Spirit Bares Its Teeth' by Andrew Joseph White, the story revolves around Silas, a trans boy in Victorian England who is being forced into a marriage despite his true interests in surgery and medicine. He is sent to a horrific school for wayward girls, where he must investigate the mysterious occurrences involving violet-eyed girls for his survival. The book is a blend of historical fiction, body horror, queer love story, and feminist manifesto, portraying Silas's journey from fear to bravery amidst the rejection of his trans and autistic identities by society.

The plot of the book includes graphic descriptions of medical procedures, misogynistic and ableist themes, and a commentary on societal norms and attitudes towards neurodiversity. The writing style is described as sensory, immersive, and gripping, with relatable characters and a storyline that leaves readers with a mix of emotions, making it a thought-provoking and important read.

The Lamb by Lucy Rose is her debut novel, blending a coming-of-age story with gothic elements. It follows 11-year-old Margot and her mother, Ruth, who live in isolation, preying on lost souls wandering into their cottage. Their sinister lifestyle takes a turn when they meet Eden, a beautiful woman who captivates Ruth's heart while Margot struggles with the change in their dark family dynamic.

The writing style is both enchanting and unsettling, capturing Margot's childlike perspective through lyrical prose. The storytelling immerses readers in a world of horror and longing, compelling them to reflect on deeper themes like love and companionship amidst cannibalism. Many readers find it stunning, unforgettable, and beautifully written, making it a standout debut.

"Chlorine" by Jade Song explores the pressures of being a high achiever and the resulting mental health issues, delving into themes of transition, identity, and the complexities of friendship. The story follows Ren's journey to become a mermaid and how this desire impacts her relationships with family and friends, while also touching on social issues such as racism, abuse, trauma, and same-sex relationships. The writing style is described as poetic, lush, and imaginative, with a fairy tale atmosphere that blends elements of fantasy with a stark portrayal of adolescent struggles and societal pressures.

The Eyes Are the Best Part by Monika Kim is a psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of family dynamics after the protagonist's father abandons his family. Ji Won, the main character, becomes the emotional caretaker for her mother and sister, grappling with the arrival of her mother's new boyfriend, George, who has an unsettling interest in Asian women. As Ji Won faces the intricacies of her identity and the pressures of her circumstances, she transforms from a devoted daughter to someone more calculating as she navigates vulnerability, strength, and societal challenges.

The writing style is both captivating and intense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with wonderful prose and a deeper look into themes like racism, sexism, and cultural fetishism. Although some readers felt the character development could be improved, the book masterfully weaves in disturbing and thought-provoking elements, making it a compelling read that lingers in the mind. With powerful themes and a straightforward narrative, this debut novel offers a raw look at loss, obsession, and the quest for identity.

In "The Lamb Will Slaughter the Lion" by Margaret Killjoy, readers are introduced to Danielle Cain, a queer punk rock traveler who investigates the death of a friend in the small anarchist town of Freedom, Iowa. The town is a utopia on the surface, but harbors dark secrets, including a summoned demon in the form of a three-antlered deer that enforces justice by attacking wrongdoers. As Danielle delves deeper into the mysteries of the town, she uncovers a world of supernatural forces, moral quandaries, and the complexities of power dynamics within the community. The novella weaves together themes of anarchism, queer representation, and horror elements to create a unique and captivating narrative that challenges traditional genre boundaries.

Killjoy's writing style in "The Lamb Will Slaughter the Lion" is praised for its quick pacing, vivid descriptions, and well-developed characters within the constraints of the short novella format. The story immerses readers in a world where magic is commonplace, and the boundaries between reality and the supernatural blur, offering a fresh and engaging perspective on horror and fantasy genres.