The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Book: The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Read From: 3rd December - 6th December 2021

Rating: 4/5 stars

Summary: A young girl in Harlem discovers slam poetry as a way to understand her mother’s religion and her own relationship to the world. In spite of a world that might not want to hear her, Xiomara refuses to remain silent.

This is going to sound ridiculous, but I often feel stupid when it comes to poetry because I don’t really ‘get it’. So many people say it speaks to them in a certain kind of way and I’ve never really felt that connection and so as a general rule, I tend to avoid books written in verse because I feel that as a reviewer I won’t be able to do the words and the story they are telling any justice.

I don’t quite know what it was about The Poet X specifically (maybe that it was told in a novel-like format), but it absolutely blew my socks off. Xiomara’s story, feelings and words completely captivated me from the first page and as a result I read this over the course of a couple of days in only a few sittings. I quite literally couldn’t peel my eyes from the page - there are so many raw feelings: navigating familial relationships, feeling disconnect from a religion you have been raised to follow, discovering your own identity, dealing with sexism, experiencing love for the first time… accompany all of these themes with the most impactful of words and you have the most enthralling and emotional of stories.

For someone who already struggled enough with poetry, it will definitely be made more difficult in future. I don’t see how another book written in verse can live up to the enormous scale of feelings I experienced while reading this. SO many reviews have recommended the audiobook which I know I definitely need to try now, if my experience with the physical book was this good I can’t imagine how much more impact it will have listening to Xiomara’s words, and her journey of self-discovery, said aloud. 

It goes without saying that I’d definitely recommend this to everyone - even those of you out there like me that usually struggle with poetry. Because of the verse format, you could consider it a relatively quick read but I can guarantee this is one you’ll want to take slow in order to fully absorb every word. This book is one I won’t forget for a long time and I can also tell that a reread will be as equally incredible as the first read. Although I have to say, I’ll definitely be listening to the audiobook when I do get around to rereading!

Playing Nice by JP Delaney

Book: Playing Nice by JP Delaney

Read From: 28th November - 3rd December 2021

Rating: 3/5 stars

Summary: When Pete answers the door one morning, he's greeted with a parent's worst nightmare. On this doorstep is Miles, who breaks the news that Pete's two year old Theo isn't his real son - their babies got mixed up at birth. The two families agree that they'll find a way to share the boys. But a plan to sue the hospital unearths disturbing questions about what happened the day the babies were switched.

I think the reason why domestic thrillers are my favourite kind is that they can sometimes be ridiculously believable, and Playing Nice took that to a new level. As I type this review, I’m literally in the middle of learning about care proceedings for my family law module at uni. If I wasn’t already adamant that I don’t have the mental strength to practice as a family lawyer after studying just the legal framework, I think this book would have done the trick. Although some aspects are clearly exaggerated in the name of fiction (i.e. it’s probably not the most believable that two neonates could get switched in an NICU), a lot within this book won’t be THAT far fetched from the realities occurring behind the closed doors of the family court. 

I did have a few minor issues with this book which I’m going to jot down now because I hate ending reviews of books I’ve genuinely enjoyed on a bad note. Firstly, whilst the premise itself was really interesting the way it was executed initially was a little… odd? Considering someone had just turned up at Pete’s doorstep and told him that the child he’d been raising for two years wasn’t actually his (biologically), once he got past the initial shock (as well as realised it wasn’t as the result of an affair) he seemed pretty accepting? You do you Pete, but if I were in your shoes I’d have needed a lot more time to stew on that information. Saying that though, I do appreciate that it may have been done this way deliberately to prevent the pace being too slow! 

There were also a few sentences randomly dotted throughout that were quite frankly unnecessary and just felt so… strange? Not to mention the use of the R-slur which in my opinion is NEVER needed. Oh and there was a REALLY unnecessary sub-plot (if you could even call it that, it was very brief) about child pornography that went absolutely no where and I still don’t really understand why it was included. 

Whilst some people may feel those issues were relatively minor (and in the grand scheme of things, most of them were) it’s definitely worth pointing out in my review because it did affect my enjoyment at times. Other than that, this book was ADDICTIVE. I’m talking HUGE tension, literally everything at stake for these characters, that ‘just one more chapter’ kind of vibe. It’s hard in thrillers to get the right amount of character development but this book had me seriously rooting for a particular couple (read it for yourself, I’m not saying any more).

Would I recommend this? Yeah, for sure. Especially if you love domestic/family-centred thrillers. I can guarantee this will be a sensitive read for a lot of people though so be sure to check the trigger warnings and make sure you’re in the right headspace before reading because whilst it will keep you hooked, the content is heavy.

How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories by Holly Black

Book: How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories by Holly Black

Read From: 25th November - 30th November 2021

Rating: 2/5 stars

Summary: Before Cardan was a cruel prince or a wicked king, he was a faerie child with a heart of stone. In this sumptuously illustrated tale, Holly Black reveals a deeper look into the dramatic life of Elfhame's enigmatic high king. This tale includes delicious details of life before The Cruel Prince, an adventure beyond The Queen of Nothing, and familiar but pivotal moments from The Folk of the Air trilogy, told wholly from Cardan's perspective.

Before I get into the things I didn’t like so much about this little book, let’s start out with some positives - because there was definitely a few things I found likeable! Firstly, the illustrations were absolutely gorgeous and it was amazing to see these characters and some creatures within the world brought to life in order to animate the different stories. I also really liked the initial story from Aslog and how there were several different variations that were amended throughout the book to reflect the current stages of Cardan’s life. 

However, I think I’d have liked this a lot more if The Folk of the Air was a favourite series of all time. I really enjoyed it at the time of reading but it’s definitely not a standout trilogy for me. So I think in turn, it definitely affected my enjoyment of this little book. I can’t help but feel like it wasn’t really needed (except obviously for those who adore the series), it didn’t really add anything to the story or the world for me that I didn’t already know and I didn’t find it to be the most memorable read at all.

I wish I'd read some reviews before going in because like many other people, I expected a novella rather than a series of short stories. Had I known about this before going in, I would have probably altered my expectations so stupidly, it's my own fault that I was let down. I think the episodic nature of this book made it hard to connect to and engage with the story. Also, I know the whole point of this book was that it focused on Cardan but I really wanted more Jude! Even in the instances she did make an appearance I wish she had been there for a little longer.

Despite my review, the last thing I want to do is put anyone off reading this - and in the event you’re so much as on the fence about it I would still suggest it’s worth a read to see what you think. I have to say it’s probably better appreciated by those with a strong connection to the original trilogy, but this won’t always be the case so definitely give it a try for yourself, even if only to appreciate the beautiful illustrations.

Our Violent Ends by Chloe Gong

Book: Our Violent Ends by Chloe Gong

Read From: 20th November - 24th November 2021

Rating: 4/5 stars

Summary (These Violent Delights): Shanghai, 1926. A blood feud between the Scarlet gang and the White Flower gang has the city divided. That is, until, a river monster plaguing the city forces Scarlet heir Juliette and White Flower heir Roma to set aside gang politics and work together to save Shanghai.

Ahhh this duology has absolutely ruined me! I had to physically stop myself from getting so invested at times because the story could completely captivate me and then I would totally forget that it was a Romeo and Juliet retelling! I absolutely loved this sequel, it didn’t quite give me the 5 star feels like the first book did, but I think this was down to my mindset at the time of reading - stressed, bogged down with university deadlines etc - rather than reflective of the book itself.

I will be keeping this review spoiler free (for both the first and second book) so that may be why it’s sort of lacking in substance. But if you’re going to take away anything at all from this review, let it be that I highly HIGHLY recommend this duology - the time spent on world building and character development within These Violent Delights really paid off once we hit the sequel - it feels so action packed because one thing happens after another! If these poor characters didn’t deserve a break after the first book then they definitely do now. 

One thing I really liked about Our Violent Ends is that we get to see a lot more of the political tension/alliances and how their increased presence really pushes the gang structures and leadership to their limit. You can’t help but read most of this book on the edge of your seat because you’re constantly aware that SOMETHING is brewing, you just don’t know what it is or when it will strike.

And of course the characters, I really enjoyed being back with everyone! Obviously Roma and Juliette absolutely make this book with all the angst but also the side characters were just brilliant! That’s all I’m going to say because I don’t want to ruin anything from the first book but honestly once you’re invested, it’s hard not to love these characters.

If it wasn’t already obvious, READ THESE BOOKS. There was so much to love and it was really interesting to see how the storyline with the monster was able to continue from the first book into the sequel. I can’t wait to see what Chloe Gong releases in future, all I can say is that I know it’ll be going straight on my TBR list.

Malice by Heather Walter

Book: Malice by Heather Walter

Read From: 17th November - 20th November 2021

Rating: 4/5 stars

Summary: Long ago, a wicked fairy cursed a line of princesses to die. A curse that can only be broken by a true love's kiss. Princess Aurora is the last heir to Briar's throne and forms a friendship with Alyce the Dark Grace, despite holding the same dark magic that cursed the royal family.

I’ve read my fair share of fairytale retellings, but surprisingly this was my first ever Sleeping Beauty reimagining! I’m so pleased to say that I absolutely loved it. I went in with high expectations, after all there’s a lot to be excited for within this book, and I couldn’t be happier that it delivered on ever single aspect. I mean, a sapphic romance between a princess and the villain? Told through the villain’s POV may I add! Dark magic, curses and fae… the list goes on.

The world building in this book was incredible and extremely well executed. It was info-dumpy, but in a good way (which is such a hard balance to strike - it definitely paid off though)! It was so detailed and really well thought out, the history of Briar was intriguing and genuinely interesting - I loved learning about the context behind the world, it’s rule and the magic system. Not to mention the involvement of the fae and the Graces, everything ended up working really well together!

The characters were incredible and if all honesty, what made this book for me. Alyce in particular. She is a complex character who blurs the lines between good and evil, she was written so well you can’t do anything but root for her - even in the instances where her actions are questionable at best. A lot of this is helped by the way she is treated by those around her. She receives hateful remarks and reactions from those in Briar whenever they see her around, but also her very own upbringing led her to be abhorred for her ‘dark magic’ - initially being treated like a test subject, an oddity, with the hatred instilled in the Graces she lives with lasting for years. I think there are many relatable parts to Alyce and being inside of her head only emphasises this. She is not only a great villain, but also a great protagonist and I think this portrayal is only testament to Walter’s writing. 

In all honesty I can’t believe this is a debut. It’s probably one of the best retellings I’ve ever read - it sticks to the original fairytale so well but in a way that makes it its own unique and compelling story. I’m stupidly excited for the second book to come out next year, I’m very invested in seeing how Alyce’s story transpires.

Gearbreakers by Zoe Hana Mikuta

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Book: Gearbreakers by Zoe Hana Mikuta

Read From: 4th November - 17th November 2021

Rating: 3/5 stars

Summary: Suffering at the hands of Godolia's tyrannical rule of giant mechanised weapons known as Windups, cybernetically enhanced Windup pilot Sona is determined to destroy Godolia from within. When she meets Eris in the prison, a Gearbreaker who is specialised in dismantling Windups, the two form an unlikely alliance. As the clock ticks down to their deadliest mission, Eris and Sona grow closer - as comrades, friends and perhaps something more.

I very much enjoyed this one - it was such a wild ride from start to finish. Of course you can tell from the synopsis that this is a kick-ass debut sci-fi, but it also encompasses so many of the things I love: fierce and determined female characters, found family, enemies (kinda) to allies to lovers and revolution. If any of this appeals to you, I think you’d really enjoy this book. And if you needed any more convincing, think a sci-fi Girls of Paper and Fire!

Sona and Eris… our Glitch and our Frostbringer. Both of the leads in this novel were incredible. You are immediately on their side right from the start but discovering their backstories makes you feel for them and their cause far more. I can’t not love a book with a strong female lead and I’m so glad that there are two featured in Gearbreakers. There are also a lot of side characters that make up the found family aspect, all of which are fascinating and have their own little quirks. I hope that we get to see more of them in the sequel and learn more about them - they were a great addition (Jenny in particular)! I actually liked all of the strategising, planning and interacting between the characters much more than a lot of the action which was only testament to how much I enjoyed following this little gang of rebels.

Overall, this book was so much fun and I would definitely recommend it to all you sci-fi lovers. The world-building isn't too heavy which is great - but the right balance has definitely been struck in that it's also a complex enough world to be really fascinating. Plus, the idea of gigantic mechanised robots isn't too far-fetched an idea in reality when you think about how fast technology is advancing these days... yikes!😅 There is so much to enjoy in this book and I can't wait for the sequel!

These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan

Book: These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan

Read From: 7th November - 13th November 2021

Rating: 4/5 stars

Summary: In a bid to save her sister who was sold to the formidable King of the Unseelie Court, Brie defies her hatred of the fae to make a deal with him in the hopes of getting her sister back. Her task is to retrieve three magical artefacts from the Seelie Court, and the only way to achieve this is to pose as a potential bride for Prince Ronan. Caught between two courts, Brie must put her loyalty to the test - especially when she begins to work alongside a band of misfits, struggling to resist the seductive charm of their leader Finn.

I know you’re all thinking ‘ugh not another fae book’, ‘nothing will ever match up to ACOTAR’, 'same old, same old'... PLEASE GIVE THIS BOOK A CHANCE. I've seen a lot of mixed reviews on various platforms saying it's a 'dollar store ACOTAR', but for me this couldn't be further from the truth. Honestly, if we're talking first books only, These Hollow Vows trumped ACOTAR for me. At the same time, I think it's an amazing story in its own right. Yes, there are a lot of similarities, but the two works shouldn't be put up against each other because they each have their own strengths. It's so hard to rave about this book without spoiling anything so I hope my review will be somewhat coherent😅 it's seriously amazing.

Brie was an absolute badass, I loved her character development but also appreciated that her motives of saving her sister never wavered. She always knew what she wanted and didn't let anyone come in between that - such an admirable quality to have in a heroine particularly when that dedication centres around a familial bond. Sebastian and Finn were very interesting characters, and even better love interests. I'm not normally a fan of love triangles but I was constantly changing my mind about who's team I was on and so I could totally understand Brie's situation of not knowing who to trust (although I do admit that I had a soft sport for Finn…) 

I loved the plot - the different methods Brie had to use in order to get the magic artefacts were really interesting to read about. I love any kind of adventure story and this definitely met that mark for me. The world building was also great. It wasn’t complex but it was well developed nonetheless. I can see why people would get ACOTAR vibes from the world but I actually appreciated it’s simplicity in comparison to Prythian, it worked well in complimenting the story without being unnecessarily complicated.

If it’s not already obvious, These Hollow Vows is one that I would definitely recommend, especially if you love fae stories. There is so much to love in this book and I’m glad it was chosen for our November book club read. 

Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia

Book: Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia

Read From: 30th October - 3rd November 2021

Rating: 3/5 stars

Summary: In the real world, Eliza Mirk is shy, weird, and friendless. Online, Eliza is LadyConstellation, anonymous creator of a popular webcomic called Monstrous Sea. With millions of followers and fans throughout the world, Eliza’s persona is popular. Eliza can’t imagine enjoying the real world as much as she loves her digital community. Then Wallace transfers to her school and Eliza begins to wonder if a life offline might be worthwhile. But when Eliza’s secret is accidentally shared with the world, everything she’s built—her story, her relationship with Wallace, and even her sanity—begins to fall apart.

This book was SO much fun. It’s blurbed as ‘a love letter to fan fiction’ and I couldn’t agree more. Although we don’t get much first-hand of the ‘fan fiction’ aspect, it still plays a central role and the book very much emphasises the comfort a lot of us find in online worlds and communities, particularly when there is a mutual interest. Presumably if you’re reading this review, you’re a part of the book community and so that is an aspect of this book that will definitely resonate with you.

I loved the mixed-media in this book, it felt like Monstrous Sea was a real comic! It’s essentially a story within a story, although Monstrous Sea inevitably isn’t AS developed as the overall storyline, I still think that it worked very well. Both Eliza and Her Monsters and the comic generally had a very interesting and gripping storyline. It’s been a while since I read a YA contemporary and I forgot how easy and fun they are to get through. The comic was fantasy too, so it was great to have a mix between the two genres (and of course, accompanied by the most gorgeous illustrations).

Eliza and Wallace were brilliant characters. I loved Eliza's journey, it was relatable and it almost felt nostalgic (come on, I know we all know the feeling of pining over a new crush and how frustrating it is when parents don't 'get' online friendships). Wallace was just the sweetest character and I wanted nothing more than to squeeze him. Although, I couldn't shake how his actions towards the end of the book seemed so out of character. Regardless, the discussions of social anxiety (which both characters struggle with) were really well done and were approached with a lot of sensitivity, understanding and care throughout which was something I really appreciated.

This isn't the slimmest book but nonetheless, it was a quick and easy read that I absolutely devoured (especially considering how busy life was for me at the time). This book will be particularly poignant for creators but also anyone who has previously or still is a part of an online community (whether this is a specific fandom or a more general shared interest). It demonstrates the importance of friendships both on and off line and is overall a brilliant read. It's not one I would ever personally revisit but I'm super glad I read it, I can't wait to see what Zappia writes in the future, I think it's definitely a name in YA to watch out for.

The Devil Makes Three by Tori Bovalino

Book: The Devil Makes Three by Tori Bovalino

Read From: 27th October - 31st October 2021

Rating: 3/5 stars

Summary: When Tess and Eliot stumble upon an ancient book hidden beneath their school library, they accidentally release a devil from his book-bound prison. He will stop at nothing to stay permanently free - manipulate the library books to do his bidding, murder in the stacks and bleed every inch into Tess’ life. Forced to work together, Tess and Eliot need to trap the devil before he kills everyone they know and love, including, increasingly, each other.

This book was so much fun! I think the last book I read that was set in a library/centred around books was Sorcery of Thorns which I finished back in November last year and LOVED. So you can imagine my excitement when I heard about this book! And there is definitely a lot to enjoy. Not only is there a merciless book demon but also two loveable characters who are amazing in their own right but also develop the sweetest and most unlikely alliance. Tess is the sweetest soul who is so family orientated, everything she does she does for her sister and I loved the strong sisterly bond in this book! Eliot on the other hand is a cute posh boy and what’s not to love about that!?

I know spooky season is basically over now, but the gothic vibes alongside the dark academia aspect made this book PERFECT for October! It was eerie and atmospheric throughout - just what I needed when I read it.

I thought this book was brilliant overall, but my only ‘criticism’ would be that I wanted more of the devil! It was sort of touched upon as to who they were and why they ended up in the library but this book could maybe benefit from a prequel? I think that has the potential to be really interesting, but nonetheless, it was great as a stand-alone.

This is definitely a book I would recommend and I can 100% see it becoming really popular in the bookstagram community. Even if you’re not the biggest fantasy fan, I still think a lot of people would enjoy this because it’s low fantasy so it doesn’t have a complex magic system or world building, it’s very easy to read and understand but at the same time it’s super creepy and filled with tension. It also centres around books which we all love!

Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover

Book: Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover

Read From: 21st October - 28th October 2021

Rating: 2/5 stars

Summary: When Tate meets Miles, the only thing they have in common is a mutual attraction. When their desires are out in the open, they realise they have the perfect set-up. He doesn't want love, she doesn't have time for love, so that just leaves the sex. Their arrangement can be seamless as long as Tate sticks to Miles' rules: never ask about the past and don't expect a future. They think they can handle it, but realise almost immediately they can't handle it at all. Hearts get infiltrated. Promises get broken. Rules get shattered. Love gets ugly.

CoHo fans… I am SO sorry. When I tell you I desperately wanted to love this book I really mean it, but I just couldn’t get on with it! October was evidently a rocky month for my relationship with Colleen Hoover’s characters - I didn’t think it could get much worse than Leeds and Layla but Tate and Miles definitely have to take the top (or bottom!?) spot. Their relationship was nothing but unhealthy from the start and if I’m not rooting for the characters in a romance novel then my interest is completely lost. I appreciated the character (and relationship) development but I still couldn’t find it in me to care about them.

I feel like I’ve said this so much about books recently but I’m going to say it again… it was also too insta-lovey for my liking! We get two timelines: Tate’s POV is in the present and Miles’ POV is 6 years prior and involves his ex-girlfriend. BOTH ‘love interests’ (if you will) were very quickly developed, maybe I’m just a slow burn lover but I didn’t find it swoown-worthy at all. Plus, I found Miles to be really possessive. I know that’s some peoples vibe and that’s totally fine, it’s just not for me. ESPECIALLY when the love interest is acting like he’s making a claim on a woman he’s known all of about 5 minutes. No thank you.

I think I’ll stop now before the Ugly Love fanatics come at me with their pitchforks (I joke, I joke) but please rest assured that no one wanted to love this book more than me, and I couldn’t be more disappointed if I tried. It hasn’t been a great CoHo month but rest assured I’m treating it as a blip in the road and I’m definitely not done with reading her works. Whilst I don’t necessarily recommend this book (there are plenty of people who do though so maybe check out their reviews if this one interests you), I’d really recommend Verity and It Ends With Us instead.

Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney

Book: Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney 

Read From: 24th October - 26th October 2021

Rating: 3/5 stars

Summary: Adam and Amelia are spending the weekend in the Scottish Highlands. The remote location is perfect for what they have planned. But when their romantic trip takes a dark turn, they both start to wonder - can they trust the one they’re with? Because every couple tells little white lies. Only for Adam and Amelia, the truth is far more dangerous.

It's been a while since I picked up an adult thriller and I forgot how easy they were to sink your teeth into. This is my second Feeney novel (my first being His and Hers which I read this time last year!) and I’m pleased to report that it was just as addictive and filled with plot twists!

Domestic thrillers are by far my favourite kind and I was gripped when finding out all of Adam and Amelia’s secrets. The story itself was also told in a great way, it’s interspersed with letters to Adam written on each anniversary (very much Gone Girl vibes with the inclusion of traditional anniversary gifts too)! Ultimately, the letters and the plot lead to the big twist which I’m kicking myself for not seeing coming - it was definitely a shocker.

Something I also really appreciated about this book was the disability rep, whilst it did aid the plot in some way it didn’t just read like a plot device; it was educational because I wasn’t aware of the condition myself (Adam has prosopagnosia meaning he can’t recognise faces). I feel like disability rep is something you’d typically see in a contemporary (or some fantasy) so I really liked that it was included in this book and definitely something that should appear in an array of different genres!

It’s very obvious why this book has received so much praise recently. The only let down on my end was that the very ending felt a little rushed - I would have liked to see more ‘aftermath’ and an exploration of the impact this had on the characters, instead it felt like it was over a bit too quickly for my liking. I’m pleased this is being adapted into a TV series because the atmosphere Feeney created was incredible - both in terms of the escalating tension between the characters and the isolated wintery vibes of rural Scotland. I think it will translate so well onto our screens! I would definitely recommend reading this book, it was so enjoyable and I guarantee that you will not be able to put it down.

Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers

Book: Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers

Read From: 17th October - 24th October 2021

Rating: 4/5 stars

Summary: With her new astronomy PhD, Grace Porter goes on a girls' trip to Vegas to celebrate. She is not the kind of person to get drunkenly married to a woman whose name she doesn't know, until she does exactly that. This one moment of departure from her stern ex-military father’s plans for her life has Grace wondering why she doesn’t feel more fulfilled from completing her degree. Staggering under the weight of her father’s expectations, a struggling job market and feelings of burnout, Grace flees her home in Portland for a summer in New York with the wife she barely knows.

This book has been described by so many people as a 'rom-com' and whilst the romance does play a part in this book, this description couldn't be further from the reality. This novel is more about Grace's own self-discovery, her battle with mental health (lots of TW's so be sure to check before reading!) and dealing with pressure and burnout.  

As someone who will be graduating from higher education in a matter of months (scary), this book was excellent. It shows the inevitable dread that comes with finishing education - of not knowing where to go and what to do. This book was reassuring; it can often seem like everyone has their lives worked out but as someone who most certainly doesn't, it was great to see this represented.

I want to talk about the romance but I'm also fully aware it wasn't the main focus of the story and also the love story between Yuki and Grace was what made this book a 4 star rather than a 5 star for me. Ironically, I hate insta-love but this book didn't feel too insta-lovey and this wasn't the aspect I disliked. I just couldn't get on board with Yuki as a love interest, I thought that her and her friends could be really pretentious and the CONSTANT repetition of 'lonely creature' very quickly started to annoy me rather than endear me. I suppose the romance sub-plot was kind of relevant (the book ends up being very character driven) but in the grand scheme of things I would have much preferred to see Grace and ONLY Grace's journey. 

For the most part, I really enjoyed the writing style. There were some really beautiful passages where I found myself wanting to tab everything, but there were also some things that really irritated me - alongside the 'lonely creature' repetition, we are almost constantly reminded that Grace has golden hair (as if the title of this book isn't literally HONEY Girl), and the 'I am a Porter, Porter's don't give up etc' mantra started to get too repetitive and it began to lose its desired effect for me. I understand why it was included, but I think a lot more could have been done with much less repetition. 

I feel like I've drawn on so many not-so-great aspects within this review which was definitely not my intention at all! I absolutely loved this book and I was pleasantly surprised that it was far more than a fluffy rom-com. I liked how it approached and dealt with sensitive topics and I loved Grace's character and her journey so much. This is a book I will highly recommend, particularly to people in their 20s. Just make sure that you check the trigger warnings before going in.

Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune

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Book: Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune

Read From: 15th October - 20th October

Rating: 5/5 stars 

Summary: When a reaper comes to collect Wallace Price from his own funeral, Wallace suspects he really might be dead. Instead of leading him directly to the afterlife, the reaper takes him to a small village. On the outskirts, off the path through the woods, is a particular tea shop, run by a man named Hugo. Hugo is the tea shop's owner to locals and the ferryman to souls who need to cross over. But Wallace isn't ready to abandon the life he barely lived. With Hugo's help he finally starts to learn about all the things he missed in life.

It’s incredibly hard to not compare two works by the same author, especially when the first one you read was an all time favourite. It’s even harder when the two books couldn’t be more different from each other - whilst The House in the Cerulean Sea was an uplifting and fluffy found family novel, Under the Whispering Door is extremely heavier in its deep exploration into grief and death.

It feels almost wrong to say that this was a book I enjoyed. It would be completely wrong too, considering I was a blubbering mess by the end - my emotions couldn’t be further from enjoyment. This novel struck a chord in me like no other book has done before and it couldn’t have come at a better time. It was of course upsetting, but I also found a lot of comfort from it - the last few pages in particular.

I could quite easily sit here and gush about every single one of these characters. Whilst I loved the found family as a whole, I also loved each one individually too. However I’m going to be vague deliberately in order to let you experience the magic for yourselves. All you need to know about this book is that its about working to the death, and spending an afterlife learning how to live. Oh and that its unapologetically gay too!

Of course the premise is sad but it's executed so well. Like The House in the Cerulean Sea, it's heart-warming and hopeful but for completely different reasons. I laughed and I ugly cried - this is a book I'm going to be thinking about for a long time.

Rule of Wolves by Leigh Bardugo

Book: Rule of Wolves by Leigh Bardugo

Read From: 11th October - 16th October 2021

Rating: 5/5 stars 

Summary (King of Scars): The dashing young king, Nikolai Lansov, has always had a gift for the impossible. Now, as enemies gather at his weakened borders, Nikolai must find a way to stop the rising threat to the once-great Grisha Army. Yet every day a dark magic within him grows stronger, threatening to destroy all he has built. With the help of a young monk and a legendary Grisha general, Nicolai will risk everything to save his country and himself.

Consider this the official petition for Leigh Bardugo to give her damn characters a break because they didn’t half go THROUGH IT in this book. I cried, I smiled, I got angry, I laughed. Then I got all sad again because I realised this is the Grishaverse FINALE!? (Although with that ending we must have another)😭 The Shadow and Bone trilogy was okay, the Six of Crows duology is one of my all time favourites and I loved the King of Scars duology so much - and was actually one of the rare instances where the sequel was better. Now that my journey with this world has come to an end I couldn’t be feeling more bereft. 

I'll admit, I initially gave this book four stars, which would place it on the same level as it’s predecessor King of Scars. Not only did I find this book to be better overall, I also found it to be a lot more memorable. I think any book that won’t get out of your head, or any book that instantly has you googling memes or fanart after finishing deserves a top rating. I was guilty of both after finishing Rule of Wolves and so I’m far from embarrassed to admit that I’ve bumped it up to a big fat 5 stars.

It’s going to be hard to say ANYTHING without spoilers, not just for King of Scars but also for the Six of Crows duology and even Shadow and Bone. It’s because of this that my review will lack any form of substance, so instead here are some out of context spoilers that were pivotal for me - if you have read the book, you’ll get it. But if you haven’t read the book, this won’t ruin anything for you either. 

• Chapter 20. That’s it. That’s the tweet.
• Absolutely living for the queer rep in this book
• "Kebben" 😭😭😭 These chapters seemed out of the blue but I ended up growing to love them and the back story/context SO MUCH
• “I hope it will bloom for you. And I hope you bloom too” crying
• THE LAST SENTENCE !!!!!

This was overall incredibly amazing and I will forever be holding out hope for another Grishaverse book. I regret taking so long to read this book but I couldn't be more glad that I finally got around to it, and that it was everything I could have wanted and more.

These Witches Don't Burn by Isabel Sterling

Book: These Witches Don't Burn by Isabel Sterling

Read From: 8th October - 10th October 2021

Rating: 3/5 stars 

Summary: Hannah is an Elemental witch living in Salem who, ironically, has to keep her powers hidden or else she will lose her magic for good. When dark magic begins to appear over Salem, Hannah is convinced it's the work of a Blood Witch and so reluctantly teams up with her ex - Veronica. While the pair attempt to smoke out the Blood Witch, Hannah meets Morgan, a cute new ballerina in town. But trying to date amid a supernatural crisis isn't easy: Hannah will have to test the limits of her power if she's going to save her coven and get the girl, especially when the attacks on Salem's witches become deadlier by the day.

Yet another brilliant pick for Fantasy Friends Book Club! I really enjoyed this read and I’m glad it won the vote because it finally gave me an excuse to pick it up off my shelves. It was very refreshing to pick up a fantasy that didn’t have extravagant world-building and a confusing magic system, it’s a quick and easy plot driven low-fantasy read with great characters and an intriguing mystery. There isn’t much to not enjoy!

I loved the characters in this book and they really remind me of that one tiktok sound… Hannah looks like a cinnamon roll and is a cinnamon roll (but she’s still a total badass), Veronica looks like she could kill you, would kill you, Hannah looks like she could kill you but is a cinnamon roll and Gemma looks like a cinnamon roll but could kill you🤣 I apologise if you have NO clue what I just said… point is, the characterisation was great and I really enjoyed their interactions and seeing the new relationships bloom.

The plot is fast paced almost without meaning to be, which I really enjoyed. There’s a lot of character development but because this happens alongside the events the book FLIES, this would be very easy to read in a single sitting. As for the twist, it pains me to admit that I saw it coming fairly early on but I still really enjoyed the tension built up throughout and how the reveal came to fruition, it’s a WILD ride.

Overall, I do agree with the reviews that say this is VERY YA and if you’re more of a fantasy reader rather than a YA reader, this is definitely something to bear in mind - especially since the setting in this book makes it read more like a contemporary! I really enjoyed reading this and will definitely be picking up the sequel when we organise our buddy read of it with the book club!

Layla by Colleen Hoover

Book: Layla by Colleen Hoover

Read From: 5th October - 8th October 2021

Rating: 3/5 stars 

Summary: When Leeds meets Layla it's love at first sight. When an unexpected attack leaves Layla fighting for her life, Leeds whisks her away to the bed and breakfast where they first met to put their relationship back on track. Not long after they arrive, things begin to take a bizarre turn and so Leeds finds solace in Willow, another guest of the B&B. As his curiosity for Willow grows, his decision to help her find answers puts him in direct conflict with Layla’s well-being. Leeds soon realizes he has to make a choice because he can’t help both of them. But if he makes the wrong choice, it could be detrimental for all of them.

I have NEVER been this conflicted over my feelings towards a book in my life. There were so many parts I absolutely despised, but there were also so many gripping bits too! I've gone for a middle of the road rating with 3 stars - mainly because the entire time I was reading, my mind was flicking between giving it a one star and giving it a five star. I told you I was conflicted, it was so mind boggling.

It probably didn't help that one of my biggest pet peeves in this book was the main couple. I'm sorry to everyone who loved Leeds but he is honestly a walking red flag😭✋🏼 and they are just the definition of insta-love, I feel like the beginning was meant to be cute but I just found it more cringe than anything. Then of course as the synopsis suggests, it only goes downhill from there. I did feel bad for Layla after the attack, especially because her boyfriend was the biggest piece of sh*t but I felt like something was missing, I couldn't really connect to her at any point. I also didn’t like how the book tackled eating disorders - so TW for that even though it’s quite brief. Which is my issue if I’m honest, I feel like if something like that’s going to be included it should be explored a bit further? Especially if the book could work well without it?

The paranormal aspect however... for Colleen Hoover's first dabble into the genre it was done SO well, I couldn't peel my eyes away from the book. Although, I’ll admit that I haven’t read much paranormal fiction so I can’t objectively say how good it is or how it compares to others! It’s very ironic that I was as gripped as I was because I still hated the story line! I was DESPERATE to see how things ended up, but it was so frustrating with Leeds going back and forth, not being able to make up his mind. 

I honestly don’t know whether I would recommend this. I normally find my 3 star books enjoyable (and therefore would recommend them more often than not), but this book has me feeling all kinds of weird things - some positive, most not! I think I’d suggest giving Layla a try if it sounds like it would be your cup of tea - a lot of people go in expecting a horror/thriller but it’s definitely a paranormal romance so do bear that in mind to avoid disappointment.

Scrunchie in this picture is 'Blossom' from Scrunch By Liv, you can use my code LUCIESCRUNCH for 10% off the website! 

A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown

Book: A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown

Read From: 2nd October - 7th October 2021

Rating: 4/5 stars

Summary: For Malik, the Solstasia festival is a chance to escape his war-stricken home and start a new life in Ziran. But when a vengeful spirit abducts Malik’s younger sister, Nadia, as payment into the city, Malik strikes a fatal deal—kill Karina, Crown Princess of Ziran, for Nadia’s freedom. But Karina has deadly aspirations of her own. Her mother, the Sultana, has been assassinated and her court threatens mutiny. Karina decides to resurrect her mother through ancient magic, requiring the beating heart of a king. And she knows just how to obtain one: by offering her hand in marriage to the victor of the Solstasia competition. When Malik rigs his way into the contest, they are set on a course to destroy each other. But as attraction flares between them and ancient evils stir, will they be able to see their tasks to the death?

This West-African inspired fantasy was filled with SO much to adore. Not only was it infused with the most vibrant culture and folktales, there were also so many tropes that I love including a competition/games, court politics and making a deal with a devil (although an obosom isn't a 'devil' - it's more of a spirit. But I guess it still sort of fits the trope). All of these combined made for the most captivating read and yet there was so much more to the book too. Betrayal, magic, self-discovery, grief, mental illness, injustice... there is a lot packed into this fantasy novel which will grip you from the very first page. 

The world-building was just incredible, and the way it ended up shaping the plot (and the history of Ziran) was done so well. The magic system and the different deities, whilst not overly complex, were genuinely so interesting to read about. Whilst I didn't find the writing style to be anything ground-breaking, the world-building and characterisation more than made up for it, but what's not to love about an easy to follow read?! 

I absolutely loved these characters but I think after a while, Malik's indecisiveness started to become a little repetitive. His brain would tell us one thing, but then the next moment his actions told a completely different story. I suppose it's understandable that you would have your doubts when killing the literal Princess but I think I would have received it a lot better if it were done in a way that was less 'samey'. However, it was amazing to see anxiety represented - I don't think this is something I've ever seen in a fantasy before and I really appreciated this touch.

Karina was great - on the outside we see a strong heroine but being in her head gave a different perspective which was so refreshing. She goes through the motions of feeling like she doesn't belong in her position of power and we see the front she puts on for the rest of Ziran - all while managing her grief over the loss of her sister, father and her mother. It was great to see both sides to her, I think it's easy to get swept up by a badass female lead without considering the fact there may be more than what meets the eye. To have this reflected on paper made a nice change!

Overall, this was an amazing YA fantasy and I cannot wait for the sequel to be released. It's a book that seems easy to predict but there are several twists and turns that you won't see coming. It's been blurbed by Kiersten White as an 'immersive debut that should be on every fantasy lover's shelf' and that just about sums it up perfectly.

The Darkness Outside Us by Eliot Schrefer

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Book: The Darkness Outside Us by Eliot Schrefer

Read From: 7th October - 14th October 2021

Rating: 3/5 stars

Summary: After the first settler on Titan trips her distress signal, two spacefarers from rival nations are sent on a rescue mission. But when they wake up in their conjoined ship, neither of them can remember the launch. Both Ambrose and Kodiak are forced to trust one another and work together, especially when they discover what they're truly up against.

Thank you so much @pridebooktours for including me on the tour and for sending me a copy of this book!

Clearly I've become a sci-fi convert as of late because I really enjoyed this book! Yes, it's a gay love story in space but it's also so much more than that. It's packed with plot twists that will leave you reeling, characters you can't help but fall in love with as well as themes of loneliness and grief but also hope. 

Kodiak and Ambrose are the embodiment of the grumpy x sunshine trope and seeing their relationship blossom filled me with only the most happiest of emotions. While their love for each other was undoubtedly convenient as a result of the forced proximity (which was admittedly a worry of mine going in), their feelings, or at least Ambrose's feelings considering he is the narrator, still felt completely organic. It was done really well!

There are so many reviews out there to say that the marketing of this book doesn't do it justice and I can't help but agree. There are some light-hearted moments and great banter from the characters, but it is also goes so much deeper and will literally invoke an philosophical crisis within you. The less you know about this book the better, but just know that if you finish this book late at night, you will be awake until the early hours of the morning contemplating the meaning of life. Think along the lines of Scythe by Neal Shusterman, and then times it by 100.

If you usually steer clear of YA books I highly suggest not applying that rule to The Darkness Outside Us - the characters are a YA age at 17 but it's truly a book that could be appreciated by most adult readers also. Tensions are running high, it's emotional and it's equal parts character driven and plot driven - there's a lot to love in this book.