In the realm of dark, gritty urban fantasy, “Vicious” by V.E. Schwab stands out as a gripping tale of superpowers, revenge, and moral ambiguity. If you’ve devoured this book and are hungry for more stories with complex characters and dark themes, you’re in luck. Here are 19 books that will keep you on the edge of your seat, just like “Vicious.”
Books Similar to Vicious by Ve Schwab
1. Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson
Steelheart plunges readers into a dystopian world where superhumans, known as Epics, rule with an iron fist. The protagonist, David, seeks revenge against Steelheart, an invincible Epic who killed his father. Brandon Sanderson’s masterful storytelling and intricate world-building make this a must-read for fans of morally complex heroes and villains.
2. Red Rising by Pierce Brown
In Red Rising, Darrow, a lowly “Red” miner, infiltrates the ruling class of “Golds” to dismantle their oppressive regime from within. Pierce Brown’s debut novel is a high-octane blend of rebellion, strategy, and dark themes, perfect for fans of intense, character-driven narratives.
3. The Rook by Daniel O’Malley
The Rook introduces Myfanwy Thomas, who wakes up in a park surrounded by dead bodies and no memory of who she is. As she navigates her way through a secret government organization that deals with supernatural threats, Daniel O’Malley crafts a compelling tale of identity and power. This book is a thrilling ride for anyone who enjoys dark, supernatural intrigue.
4. The Magicians by Lev Grossman
Lev Grossman’s The Magicians follows Quentin Coldwater as he discovers a hidden magical world far darker and more dangerous than he ever imagined. This novel delves into the complexities of power, responsibility, and the often harsh realities of growing up, making it a perfect read for those who appreciate a mature, dark twist on the fantasy genre.
5. American Gods by Neil Gaiman
In American Gods, Shadow Moon is released from prison only to find his life turned upside down by a mysterious man named Mr. Wednesday. Neil Gaiman’s modern classic explores themes of belief, mythology, and the dark undercurrents of American culture. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys richly woven narratives with a touch of the supernatural.
6. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
The Lies of Locke Lamora follows the exploits of a master thief and his band of con artists in the city of Camorr. Scott Lynch’s debut novel is a brilliant mix of heist, fantasy, and dark humor, making it an excellent choice for fans of cunning anti-heroes and intricate plots.
7. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
Neverwhere takes readers into the hidden world of London Below, where Richard Mayhew finds himself after helping a mysterious girl named Door. Neil Gaiman’s imaginative storytelling and dark, atmospheric settings make this a captivating read for anyone who loves urban fantasy with a twist.
8. Sandman Slim by Richard Kadrey
In Sandman Slim, James Stark escapes from Hell after eleven years to seek revenge on the people who sent him there. Richard Kadrey’s gritty, fast-paced novel is filled with dark humor, magic, and a relentless anti-hero, making it a perfect pick for fans of dark urban fantasy.
9. The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell
David Mitchell’s The Bone Clocks spans decades and weaves together multiple narratives centered around Holly Sykes, a woman with psychic abilities. This intricate novel explores themes of time, mortality, and the supernatural, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy complex, thought-provoking stories.
10. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
The Name of the Wind tells the story of Kvothe, a legendary figure recounting his life from humble beginnings to becoming a powerful mage. Patrick Rothfuss’s beautifully written novel is filled with magic, mystery, and a touch of darkness, making it a must-read for fans of epic fantasy.
11. Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
Good Omens is a humorous take on the apocalypse, following an angel and a demon who team up to prevent the end of the world. Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s collaboration offers a delightful mix of dark comedy, wit, and supernatural elements, making it a fantastic read for those who enjoy a lighter, yet still dark, fantasy.
12. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus is a mesmerizing tale of a magical competition between two young illusionists, set against the backdrop of a mysterious, traveling circus. The novel’s lush prose and enchanting atmosphere make it a captivating read for anyone who loves dark, romantic fantasy.
13. The City & The City by China Miéville
The City & The City follows Inspector Tyador Borlú as he investigates a murder in a city that exists in two overlapping realities. China Miéville’s unique blend of noir and speculative fiction creates a dark, thought-provoking narrative that will intrigue fans of complex, genre-bending stories.
14. The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin
In The Fifth Season, N.K. Jemisin introduces a world on the brink of apocalypse, where individuals with the power to control seismic activity are both revered and feared. This Hugo Award-winning novel is a masterful blend of dark fantasy and science fiction, perfect for readers who crave intricate world-building and complex characters.
15. The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger by Stephen King
Stephen King’s The Gunslinger follows Roland Deschain, the last gunslinger, on his quest to find the enigmatic Dark Tower. This dark, epic fantasy series is filled with haunting imagery, complex characters, and a richly detailed world, making it a must-read for fans of dark, sprawling narratives.
16. The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie
The Blade Itself is the first book in Joe Abercrombie’s First Law trilogy, introducing a cast of morally ambiguous characters in a gritty, war-torn world. With its dark humor, intense action, and complex character dynamics, this novel is a fantastic choice for fans of dark, character-driven fantasy.
17. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy War follows Rin, a war orphan who rises to power through sheer determination and discovers her shamanic abilities. This dark, historical fantasy is inspired by real-world events and offers a brutal, unflinching look at war and power, making it a compelling read for fans of intense, morally complex stories.
18. The Dresden Files: Storm Front by Jim Butcher
In Storm Front, the first book of The Dresden Files, Harry Dresden is a wizard for hire in modern-day Chicago, dealing with supernatural crimes. Jim Butcher’s blend of dark humor, magic, and detective noir makes this series a must-read for fans of urban fantasy with a gritty edge.
19. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Six of Crows follows a group of outcasts and criminals as they attempt an impossible heist in a world filled with magic and danger. Leigh Bardugo’s richly developed characters and intricate plot make this a thrilling read for anyone who loves dark, high-stakes fantasy.