Books Like...

In "April & Oliver" by Tess Callahan, the story revolves around the complex relationship between the titular characters, April and Oliver. Childhood friends who have grown apart, they are drawn back together after the death of April's brother, sparking old feelings and uncovering hidden secrets from their past. As they navigate grief, love, and personal struggles, Callahan weaves a tale of emotional depth and introspection, exploring themes of loss, trauma, and the intricacies of human connections. The narrative unfolds through a mix of present-day events and poignant flashbacks, offering a multi-layered exploration of the characters' lives and choices.

'How to Love' by Katie Cotugno is a heartfelt and realistic portrayal of young love, forgiveness, and the complexities of relationships. The story follows Reena and Sawyer as they navigate their relationship from the past to the present, exploring themes of forgiveness, unintended pregnancy, and societal expectations. The format of the story, alternating between before and after timelines, adds depth to the characters and their journey of growth and self-discovery. Cotugno's writing style effectively captures the raw emotions and challenges faced by the characters, making the narrative relatable and engaging.

'The Friendship Study' by Ruby Barrett is a captivating story that follows the journey of two complex characters, Jesse and Lulu, as they navigate their struggles with loneliness, self-discovery, and making adult friendships. The book delves deep into their emotional depths, vulnerabilities, and the challenges they face in finding their purpose in life. Through a friendship study that forbids romantic relationships between participants, Jesse and Lulu form a unique bond that ignites a powerful connection and intense chemistry between them. The author, Ruby Barrett, skillfully weaves a tale of love, friendship, and self-acceptance, portraying raw and relatable characters that readers can't help but root for.

The writing style of Ruby Barrett in 'The Friendship Study' is praised for its emotional depth, tenderness, and realness. The book is commended for its refreshing and unique storyline that explores themes of belonging, trust, and recovery. Readers are drawn into the story from the very beginning, experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions as they witness the beautiful love story unfold amidst the characters' personal growth and struggles.

In "Then, Earth Swallowed Ocean" by Shiloh Sloane, the story follows Sadie Price, a young woman from rural Tennessee, who wakes from tragedy to a life thrust into a living nightmare. The plot unfolds in the 1950s, where Sadie makes a deal with the Devil to walk away from the horror of her life in exchange for an evil soul. The book delves into the dynamics of the Lindal brothers, Ridge and Wright, who become enraptured with Sadie, each in their own way. The writing style is described as poetic and atmospheric, capturing the emotions and fervor of the characters and their raw, primal instincts.

'The Siren' by Tiffany Reisz is a dark and complex tale that delves into the world of BDSM, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and pain. The story follows Nora Sutherlin, an author of erotic books, as she navigates her relationships with her new publisher Zach Easton, her intern Wesley, and her Dom, Soren. The writing style is described as flawless, with a gripping plot that keeps readers engaged and intrigued by the intense and emotionally charged scenes.

The book introduces readers to a cast of strong and intriguing characters, each with their own demons and desires. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, exploring the dynamics of power, love, and redemption within the BDSM community. The author weaves a debauched world that captivates readers, even when the content is difficult to digest, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read that delves into the complexities of human relationships.

In "The Bronze Horseman" by Paullina Simons, readers are transported into Stalin's Soviet Union during World War II, specifically Leningrad, as they follow the gripping tale of love and loss between the main characters, Tatiana and Alexander. The book beautifully portrays Tatiana as a survivor against all odds, showcasing her love, hope, and perseverance amidst the horrors of war. Through vivid writing and detailed historical context, the author brings to life the challenges faced by the characters in the midst of the German invasion, creating a powerful and emotional narrative.

The novel is not just a love story, but a rich tapestry of historical fiction that delves into the complexities of war, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit. Paullina Simons' descriptive writing style immerses readers in the setting of wartime Russia, evoking a range of emotions from joy to sorrow, and creating well-drawn characters that resonate with authenticity and depth.

In "The Guest" by Emma Cline, the story follows Alex, a mysterious and complex character who navigates through different settings while keeping her secrets hidden. The plot revolves around Alex's attempts to escape a troubling past while moving through a world of affluent individuals in the Hamptons. The writing style captures the reader's attention with its taut and propulsive narrative, leading us through a week in Alex's life that is filled with intrigue and moral ambiguity.

'The Idiot' by Elif Batuman follows the story of Selin, a college freshman at Harvard in 1995, as she navigates her first love, friendships, and academic life. The narrative is presented in a diary-like format, offering insights into Selin's thoughts and experiences with humor and honesty. The plot meanders slowly, focusing on Selin's musings on language, self-discovery, and the challenges of young adulthood. The story is filled with quirky characters and absurd moments, providing a glimpse into the protagonist's journey of finding meaning and purpose in a world full of uncertainties.

'The Sweetest Oblivion' by Danielle Lori delves into a gripping tale of forbidden love and complex relationships within the world of mobsters and Made Men. The story follows Elena and Nico, who come from the same dangerous world but are drawn together by an irresistible and unreliable attraction, leading them to push boundaries and cross lines. As they navigate through twists and turns, including Nico being engaged to Elena's sister, the readers are taken on a gut-wrenching and teeth-clenching journey filled with suspense, tension, and passion. The writing style is described as enthralling, with perfect execution of slow-burn romance and explosive payoffs, making it a captivating read that keeps readers hooked until the end.

"My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante is a captivating novel that follows the friendship between two intelligent girls, Elena and Lila, as they navigate the impoverished and violent setting of mid-twentieth century Naples. The story delves into their diverging paths in life, detailing Elena's academic pursuits and Lila's struggles with family obligations and early marriage. Through rich period details and intricate character development, the book explores themes of friendship, rivalry, societal expectations, and the complexities of growing up in a challenging environment.

Elena Ferrante's writing style in "My Brilliant Friend" is praised for its ability to vividly capture the essence of childhood and adolescence, blending detailed descriptions with insightful reflections on life. The narrative, told from Elena's perspective, offers a child's view of the world while weaving in deeper themes of friendship, societal norms, and personal growth. The book sets the stage for a compelling quartet that delves into the evolving relationship between Elena and Lila against the backdrop of post-war Italy.