There’s no denying that the ‘Crave’ series has left an indelible mark on its readers. Its enticing blend of vampire-human love saga, thrilling supernatural school setting, and the heartfelt exploration of themes such as love, friendship, and self-discovery, has captivated fans around the world. But as the saying goes, “all good things must come to an end”, and so we are left yearning for more once we’ve turned the last page of ‘Crown’, the final book in the series.
So, where do we go from here? The world of paranormal romance is vast and varied, teeming with fascinating narratives and compelling characters that are sure to fill the void left by the ‘Crave’ series. This blog post serves as a guide to that world, offering you a selection of novels that not only share similarities with the ‘Crave’ series, but also introduce unique paranormal twists and different supernatural creatures to keep your reading experiences fresh and exciting.
From revisiting familiar vampire tales to exploring new paranormal territories, let’s delve into a myriad of enchanting worlds, all waiting to be discovered in the pages of these recommended books.
Prepare for a literary journey that promises to captivate, thrill, and move you, just as the ‘Crave’ series did. Let’s get started.
The World of Paranormal Romance: An Overview
Definition and Features of Paranormal Romance
Paranormal romance is a sub-genre of both romantic literature and speculative fiction. It blends together elements of fantasy, science fiction, and horror with traditional romantic themes. The primary distinguishing aspect of this genre is the inclusion of supernatural elements and creatures, such as vampires, werewolves, ghosts, witches, and even extraterrestrials. In these narratives, human characters often find themselves intertwined in love stories with these supernatural beings, thereby challenging the boundaries of love and relationship norms.
Its Evolution and Cultural Impact
From Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’ to Stephenie Meyer’s ‘Twilight’, the genre has seen a significant evolution. While earlier narratives focused more on the horror aspects, recent literature tends to favor romance and character development. The supernatural beings, often depicted as menacing in earlier works, are now portrayed with more complexity and depth, thus creating a unique space for empathy and identification.
The cultural impact of paranormal romance is undeniable. It has played a crucial role in diversifying the landscape of popular fiction. By merging the supernatural with everyday reality, these stories encourage readers to expand their imagination, challenge societal norms, and explore multifaceted human emotions. They have also opened up new dialogues about love, relationships, identity, and acceptance.
Thematic Similarities: What Makes Crave Series Unique?
Exploration of the Vampire-Human Love Saga
The ‘Crave’ series, penned by Tracy Wolff, beautifully explores the age-old theme of vampire-human love. Grace, a human girl, finds herself irresistibly drawn to Jaxon, a vampire. Despite their inherent differences, their bond deepens as they navigate through numerous challenges. It’s this exploration of forbidden and unconventional love that forms the crux of the series, resonating deeply with readers.
The Appeal of the Supernatural School Setting
Set in Katmere Academy, a school teeming with supernatural creatures, the series taps into the popular trope of a magical or supernatural school setting. This backdrop adds a layer of excitement and mystery, serving as a catalyst for many plot developments. It also allows for the exploration of diverse characters and supernatural politics, adding depth to the overall narrative.
The Themes of Love, Friendship, and Self-Discovery
At its heart, the ‘Crave’ series is not just a paranormal romance but also a journey of self-discovery for its protagonist, Grace. Her friendships, her evolving relationship with Jaxon, and her personal growth amidst the supernatural chaos form key narrative arcs. Themes of trust, loyalty, courage, and identity are interwoven with the central love story, making the series relatable on a deeply human level, despite its paranormal framework.
Recommendations: Novels Resembling the Crave Series
The Twilight Series by Stephenie Meyer
Just as ‘Crave’ captivated readers with its vampire-human love story, the ‘Twilight’ series remains a quintessential read in the genre. The journey of Bella Swan and vampire Edward Cullen captures the same intoxicating mix of romance and danger. With a similar small-town setting and high school dynamics, the ‘Twilight’ series could very well satisfy those craving for more after the ‘Crave’ series.
The Vampire Academy Series by Richelle Mead
If the supernatural school setting of ‘Crave’ intrigues you, then ‘Vampire Academy’ is a must-read. The series follows Rose Hathaway, a dhampir (half-human, half-vampire) as she trains to protect her best friend, a Moroi vampire princess, from deadly immortal vampires, the Strigoi. ‘Vampire Academy’ further explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and forbidden love, echoing some of the emotional depth found in the ‘Crave’ series.
The Mortal Instruments Series by Cassandra Clare
For those interested in exploring beyond vampires, ‘The Mortal Instruments’ offers an enthralling world filled with shadowhunters, demons, warlocks, and other supernatural beings. The series’ protagonist, Clary Fray, much like Grace from ‘Crave’, finds herself thrust into a world she never knew existed. Her journey of self-discovery, coupled with a gripping love story and intricate world-building, makes ‘The Mortal Instruments’ a worthy successor to the ‘Crave’ series.
Recommendations: Novels with Different Paranormal Creatures
The Wolves of Mercy Falls Series by Maggie Stiefvater
If you enjoyed the ‘Crave’ series and are looking for a shift from vampires, ‘The Wolves of Mercy Falls’ series is a fantastic option. This series introduces readers to a mesmerizing love story between Grace, a human girl, and Sam, a boy who shifts into a wolf. Similar to ‘Crave’, the books explore themes of forbidden love, self-discovery, and transformation, while providing a fresh take on the paranormal romance genre with its focus on werewolves.
The Dark Elements Series by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Another exciting deviation from the vampire norm is the ‘Dark Elements’ series. This series delves into the world of gargoyles and demons, offering a rich tapestry of supernatural lore. Layla, the protagonist, who is half gargoyle and half demon, finds herself torn between two worlds and two loves. Her journey resonates with the same emotional depth and internal conflict experienced by Grace in ‘Crave’, making it a compelling read for fans of the series.
Recommendations: Novels with Unique Paranormal Twists
The Darkest Powers Trilogy by Kelley Armstrong
If you’re on the lookout for a series that offers a unique spin on the paranormal genre, ‘The Darkest Powers’ trilogy is a great choice. The series focuses on Chloe Saunders, a teenager who suddenly develops the ability to see ghosts. This unforeseen power lands her in a group home for troubled teens, where she discovers that she’s not the only one with special abilities. With its unique paranormal elements and a gripping plot that mirrors the thrilling supernatural mystery of ‘Crave’, this series is sure to keep you hooked.
The Arcana Chronicles by Kresley Cole
Stepping away from the usual vampire or werewolf narratives, ‘The Arcana Chronicles’ dives into a world influenced by Tarot cards and apocalyptic prophecies. The series’ protagonist, Evie Greene, finds herself in the middle of a deadly game played by characters inspired by Tarot figures. Much like Grace from ‘Crave’, Evie embarks on a journey of self-discovery, survival, and love in a world fraught with danger. The series’ unique premise and complex character dynamics make it a thrilling follow-up read for ‘Crave’ fans.
Additional Recommendations: Ten Diverse Paranormal Reads
‘A Discovery of Witches’ by Deborah Harkness
This is the first book in the ‘All Souls’ Trilogy. Its unique blend of history, science, and magic provides a refreshing twist on the paranormal romance genre, making it a must-read for ‘Crave’ fans seeking a mature and sophisticated narrative.
‘Hush, Hush’ by Becca Fitzpatrick
In this novel, angels take center stage. The suspenseful plot and the forbidden romance between the human protagonist and a fallen angel echo the thrilling and emotional journey found in ‘Crave’.
‘Obsidian’ by Jennifer L. Armentrout
The first in the ‘Lux’ series, ‘Obsidian’ introduces readers to a new kind of paranormal creature: aliens. The gripping romance and the protagonist’s journey of discovery make it a great pick for fans of ‘Crave’.
‘City of Ghosts’ by Victoria Schwab
Though targeted more towards middle-grade readers, ‘City of Ghosts’ offers an engaging plot revolving around ghosts and the supernatural. Its exploration of friendship and self-growth make it a lighter but equally captivating read.
‘Beautiful Creatures’ by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
Set in a Southern Gothic backdrop, this book offers a unique twist with its male protagonist who falls for a caster (witch). It shares thematic similarities with ‘Crave’, such as the exploration of forbidden love and supernatural lore.
‘The Raven Boys’ by Maggie Stiefvater
The first in ‘The Raven Cycle’ series, this novel combines psychic abilities, ghosts, and ley lines, offering a unique blend of paranormal elements. Its exploration of friendship, destiny, and love makes it a compelling read for ‘Crave’ fans.
‘Crescent City: House of Earth and Blood’ by Sarah J. Maas
This novel boasts an intricate world teeming with a myriad of supernatural beings. Its mature content, complex relationships, and the protagonist’s personal growth echo the depth found in ‘Crave’.
‘Shadow Falls: Born at Midnight’ by C.C. Hunter
Set in a camp for supernatural teenagers, this novel delves into various paranormal beings and the protagonist’s self-discovery journey. Its similarity with ‘Crave’ in terms of setting and themes makes it a worthy read.
‘Daughter of Smoke & Bone’ by Laini Taylor
With its focus on angels and demons, this novel presents a richly imagined world and a star-crossed love story that ‘Crave’ fans might enjoy. The protagonist’s quest for identity and belonging resonates with Grace’s journey in ‘Crave’.
‘The Iron King’ by Julie Kagawa
This novel takes a different path, delving into the world of fey. The engaging narrative, the exploration of love, and the protagonist’s self-discovery journey amidst a supernatural setting make it a great follow-up read for ‘Crave’ fans.
Conclusion
Recap of Recommended Book Series
In the wake of the ‘Crave’ series, we’ve traversed a multitude of captivating paranormal worlds. From the vampire-human love stories found in the ‘Twilight’ series and ‘Vampire Academy’, to exploring new territories with ‘The Mortal Instruments’, we’ve rediscovered the charm of familiar themes. We then ventured into the world of werewolves with ‘The Wolves of Mercy Falls’ and explored unique supernatural beings with ‘The Dark Elements’. Lastly, we broke the mold with ‘The Darkest Powers’ and ‘The Arcana Chronicles’, each presenting a unique twist on the paranormal romance genre.
Final Thoughts on the Joy of Finding New Books to Enjoy After the Crave Series
The end of a beloved book series like ‘Crave’ can feel like a farewell to a dear friend. However, as we’ve seen, there’s an abundance of remarkable stories waiting to be discovered. Each recommended series carries a piece of what made ‘Crave’ so compelling, be it in its exploration of love, friendship, or self-discovery. Yet, they also offer fresh perspectives, new worlds, and unique characters, promising equally thrilling and immersive reading experiences. As we bid adieu to ‘Crave’, these series welcome us into their worlds, promising to keep our love for paranormal romance alive and thriving. The journey continues, and what a joy it is to embark on this literary adventure.
