The mermaid and Mrs. Hancock

This novel shares a similar historical period (Victorian), a central mystery involving a mythical creature, and a strong female protagonist challenging societal norms. Its rich, atmospheric writing style blends history with a touch of the uncanny, appealing to fans of Gowar's evocative prose.

Set in 17th-century Amsterdam, this book features a young woman navigating a new, mysterious household and uses a subtle element of the uncanny (the miniaturist's prophecies) to drive the plot. This mirrors the ambiguous nature of the mermaid and the female-centric intrigue in Gowar's work.

A Victorian mystery centered around a seemingly miraculous event—a drowned child returning to life—blending folklore, a detailed historical setting, and a quest for truth. The atmosphere and the exploration of belief versus reality will strongly resonate with readers who enjoyed the enigmatic nature of the mermaid.

An epic historical fantasy set during the Napoleonic Wars, this novel meticulously recreates the period while introducing the return of magic to England. Its detailed world-building, exploration of ambition, and blend of the mundane with the magical will appeal to fans of Gowar's rich historical setting and subtle fantastical elements.

This sprawling, gritty novel set in Victorian London offers a deep dive into the social strata, gender roles, and moral ambiguities of the era, focusing on the lives of a courtesan and a perfume manufacturer. It echoes the detailed historical and social observations, as well as the exploration of women's lives, found in 'The Mermaid and Mrs. Hancock'.

Set in 18th-century France, this dark and atmospheric novel follows a protagonist with an extraordinary sense of smell and a disturbing obsession. It shares the same historical period as Gowar's book, a focus on sensory detail, and explores themes of obsession, the grotesque, and societal alienation.

Set in late 19th-century New York, this novel weaves together magical realism with historical fiction, following two mythical creatures navigating human society. It shares the blend of the fantastical with a strong sense of place and time, and explores themes of identity, belonging, and the clash of cultures.

Based on a true story from 19th-century Canada, this historical novel delves into the mystery of a convicted murderess, told from her perspective. It offers a compelling female viewpoint, psychological depth, and a rich historical setting, exploring themes of class, gender, and the elusive nature of truth.

While less historically grounded, this novel excels in creating a magical, atmospheric world centered around a mysterious, ephemeral circus. Fans of 'The Mermaid and Mrs. Hancock' will appreciate the sense of wonder, spectacle, and the intricate, character-driven narrative that blends reality with enchantment.

A gripping Victorian novel set in London, featuring strong female protagonists caught in intricate plots of deception and betrayal. Its rich historical detail, suspenseful narrative, and deep exploration of class, identity, and women's lives in a restrictive era will strongly appeal to Gowar's readers.