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  • Random Novel Roulette — Pick 1 of These 10 Books for Your Next Read!

Discover 10 Hidden Gems in Literature: A Journey Through Unforgettable Books

Published by Likewise | Apr 30, 2025Uncover ten extraordinary novels that will whisk you away on captivating adventures and evoke profound emotions, from thrilling mysteries to heartwarming tales.

Literature has the power to transport us to different worlds, sparking our imagination and igniting our passions. Today, we delve into a selection of ten remarkable novels, each a hidden gem in its own right, ready to capture your heart and mind. From haunting love stories to adventurous fantasies, these books promise a wide array of captivating narratives just waiting to be discovered.

The Shadow of the Wind

The Shadow of the Wind
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Engage with a passionate tale set in post-war Barcelona, where a young boy named Daniel discovers a mysterious book that unravels a dark secret tied to the author’s works. Carlos Ruiz Zafón's _The Shadow of the Wind_ is a stunning homage to literature that amalgamates love, mystery, and the haunting past. With praise from icons like Stephen King and The Washington Post, this book envelops readers in its mesmerizing embrace.

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The Night Circus

The Night Circus
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Step into the enchanting world of _The Night Circus_ by Erin Morgenstern, where two young magicians, Celia and Marco, find themselves entangled in a deadly competition within an ethereal circus that appears overnight. This spellbinding novel transcends genres, delivering a compelling blend of romance and magical realism that keeps readers spellbound until the very last page.

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The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry
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Gabrielle Zevin's _The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry_ celebrates the resilience of the human spirit through the lens of a grumpy bookstore owner who finds hope and a journey of rediscovery through an unexpected child. This novel beautifully encapsulates the magic that books can bring into our lives, making it a heartwarming read that affirms the power of connection.

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The Song of Achilles

The Song of Achilles
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Madeline Miller's _The Song of Achilles_ offers a fresh perspective on the mythological tale of Achilles, blending myth and history into a poignant love story that explores the complexity of human relationships amid the backdrop of war. This novel has garnered critical acclaim for its lyrical prose and emotional depth, making it a cornerstone for fans of historical fiction.

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The Ocean at the End of the Lane

The Ocean at the End of the Lane
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Neil Gaiman’s _The Ocean at the End of the Lane_ weaves a hauntingly beautiful tale that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, exploring the essence of memory and childhood. This masterful fusion of horror and whimsy honors the complexities of growing up while tapping into our deepest fears and longings. Gaiman’s storytelling prowess shines in this poignant narrative.

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The House in the Cerulean Sea

The House in the Cerulean Sea
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T.J. Klune’s heartwarming _The House in the Cerulean Sea_ intertwines themes of found family and acceptance within a whimsical narrative about magical children. This enchanting tale takes readers on a journey alongside a caseworker who discovers the true meaning of family in the most unexpected places. It's a delightful read that combines humor, warmth, and a dash of fantasy.

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Station Eleven

Station Eleven
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Emily St. John Mandel's acclaimed masterpiece, _Station Eleven_, chronicles the aftermath of a devastating pandemic that wipes out civilization. Through the lives of a nomadic group of actors, it captures the fragility and resilience of humanity. This thought-provoking narrative beautifully intertwines art, memory, and survival, making it a compelling and poignant exploration of what it means to endure.

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Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
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Gail Honeyman’s _Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine_ presents a uniquely captivating heroine with a charmingly quirky personality. As Eleanor navigates her isolated life, her unexpected connection with others leads her on a path towards healing and rediscovery. This novel is an uplifting story about the importance of human connections and the journey to self-acceptance.

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Pachinko

Pachinko
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Min Jin Lee’s epic saga, _Pachinko_, chronicles the life of a Korean family across multiple generations, weaving a rich tapestry of history, identity, and resilience. As they navigate love, hardship, and cultural identity in Japan, this novel becomes a powerful reflection on the complexities of family and heritage. Its intricate storytelling has captivated readers worldwide.

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The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue
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V.E. Schwab's _The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue_ is a genre-defying blend of fantasy and historical fiction, exploring themes of identity, memory, and the quest for immortality. As Addie strikes a deal to escape a stifling life, she discovers the burdens of her curse. This gripping narrative intricately presents the desire to be remembered and the fleeting nature of human connections.

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Each of these novels showcases the profound and transformative power of storytelling, offering readers not only entertainment but also insight into the human condition. Whether you're in the mood for a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming contemporary tale, or a poignant historical saga, these hidden gems promise to enrich your literary experience. Choose one—or more—to dive into and immerse yourself in the magic of books!

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  • The Best Dystopian Novels Set Outside of America

The Best Dystopian Novels Set Outside of America

Published by Likewise | May 13, 2025 Explore the fascinating and harrowing world of dystopian fiction with our curated list of the best novels that transport readers beyond American borders.

I Who Have Never Known Men

I Who Have Never Known Men Cover
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SISTERHOOD. SECRETS. SURVIVAL. This haunting post-apocalyptic novel explores the lives of thirty-nine women kept in isolation underground. These women have no memory of how they ended up in this cage, and the story deeply examines themes of identity and resilience. Their only hope for escape lies in a young girl—an outcast among them—who possesses memories and the key to their future in a world above ground, lost to devastation.

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Moon of the Crusted Snow

Moon of the Crusted Snow Cover
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Set within a northern Anishinaabe community, this gripping narrative unfolds as winter descends, enveloping the community in darkness and confusion. With food supplies dwindling and chaos simmering, the arrival of outsiders seeking refuge marks a turning point. Young community members must confront their traditions and determine how to navigate their survival amid a collapsing society's shadows.

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We

We Cover
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This seminal work from Russian author Yevgeny Zamyatin is a foundational text in dystopian literature. Set in a totalitarian state where individualism is obliterated, the protagonist discovers the dark undercurrents of a society built on harmony and conformity. Its prescient themes have influenced major writers like Orwell and Huxley, underscoring the dangers of a collectivist regime.

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Never Let Me Go

Never Let Me Go Cover
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In this poignant exploration of love, memory, and the essence of humanity, Kazuo Ishiguro presents Hailsham, an idyllic boarding school where students face a dark reality unbeknownst to them. As Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy navigate their lives at school and beyond, the truth of their existence soon unravels in a way that forces readers to question the moral boundaries of science and humanity.

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The Petting Zoos

The Petting Zoos Cover
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A thought-provoking exploration of human connection in a post-pandemic world, "The Petting Zoos" delves into the psychological aftermath of isolation. As the need for human touch grows unbearable, underground petting zoos emerge, challenging societal norms around safety and intimacy. This novel pushes the boundaries of erotic love stories to confront the anxieties of contemporary life.

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Nineteen Eighty-four

Nineteen Eighty-four Cover
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George Orwell's chilling vision of a totalitarian society remains a timeless classic. Set in grim Oceania, the protagonist Winston Smith navigates a world where Big Brother surveils every move. Orwell's incisive examination of the psychological manipulation and loss of individuality speaks volumes and invites readers to engage critically with the concept of freedom and authority.

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On the Beach

On the Beach Cover
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An evocative tale by Nevil Shute, "On the Beach" captures the despair and resignation of survivors in a world facing nuclear annihilation. As they confront their impending doom, this poignant story portrays the fragility of life and the human condition, blending themes of love, loss, and hope in the face of overwhelming despair.

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Fatherland

Fatherland Cover
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In this gripping alternative history thriller, Robert Harris imagines a world where the Nazis won World War II. Following detective Xavier March, the investigation of a murder leads him deep into a conspiracy that threatens the very foundation of the regime. This unsettling reimagining of history compels readers to consider the consequences of unchecked power and corruption.

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The Windup Girl

The Windup Girl Cover
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Set in a future where calorie companies dominate the world, Paolo Bacigalupi's "The Windup Girl" features a genetically engineered being amidst the societal decay wrought by bio-engineered plagues. The stark narrative interweaves themes of exploitation and survival, presenting a vivid depiction of the world's consequences in the wake of environmental neglect and corporate greed.

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Brave New World

Brave New World Cover
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Aldous Huxley's classic "Brave New World" anticipates a future dominated by consumerism and genetic engineering. With people conditioned to accept the roles assigned to them, this dystopia lays bare the dangers of sacrificing individuality for societal stability. Through the character of John the Savage, Huxley reveals the depths of human experience and emotion in the face of a mechanized existence.

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In Conclusion

These dystopian novels set outside of America challenge readers to ponder the implications of societal structures and the human experiences that arise in extreme circumstances. Each work not only captivates with compelling narratives but also serves as a powerful reflection on the nuances of humanity, power, and survival. We invite you to explore these incredible stories and immerse yourself in their thought-provoking worlds.

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