I’m late writing this. But, you know, I’m glad. If I had written it when initially planned, it would have been me moaning that July didn’t go according to plan: illness killed all productivity and left me frustrated.
Instead, I’m writing it at the beginning of August, feel pretty positive about everything. There are a few changes happening making me feel inspired and positive about the future. I am trying to put writing first, making it a part of my life again, and I’ve had a couple of really strong days. The blog is doing well, I’ve had a good reading spree and basically feeling in a good place right now.
I fully intend to make the most of it!

And what better way of enjoying feeling positive other than taking a look back at what I’ve been reading recently. I had a couple of exciting releases last month and feel I’m devouring books at the moment – and I love it!
The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton

My review for this went live last week, and I cannot recommend this book enough! Worth the hype; worth the wait; worth the raving review – I loved it. If you want something fresh and unique, this is the one!
Priest of Bones by Peter McLean

This had been on my list for a while when I suddenly realised the second book was due to be published. I changed my reviewing schedule to slot it straight in – and enjoyed it. Dark, gritty, plenty of violence and swearing, this book was made by its characters.
The Bear Pit by S.G MacLean

Another book I changed my entire schedule for. You all know I adore S.G MacLean and the world created in the Cromwell era, and this was a powerful addition to a brilliant series. Another strong recommendation!
Priest of Lies by Peter McLean

What can I say – figured it made sense to continue the series while I remembered what was happening and the character relationships. A strong second book that developed the characters and plot with a steady pace and a lot of suspense!
Dragon Called by Ava Richardson

I know. I should stop with these books. I spent half the time getting annoyed. But dragons. What more can I say? Not the strongest start to the trilogy but we all know I’ll continue…
Sword Saint by C.F Iggulden

A fantastic and explosive end to an awesome trilogy! I said I had a lot of good books this month and I squealed throughout this one! Won’t spoil the review I’ve got coming, but it drew the first two books together perfectly in terms of characters and plot.
Dragon Magic by Ava Richardson

…you know that part where I said we all knew I’d continue with the trilogy..? The second book was stronger, with more developed characters and a better plot, so it redeemed itself.
Kingdom of Souls by Rena Barron

On a month of strong reads, I didn’t expect to find a new author blowing me away. The characters, the magic, the world-building and character development: this had it all. Again, a review is coming, but this is one of the strongest books of the year so far for me.
How about you? What have you been reading lately? Let me know!

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Such amazing titles and book covers they all seem to pull me in. More for my list thank you xx
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Aha you’re welcome! I hope you like any you get the chance to read!
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I read Darien and really enjoyed it, but heard such mixed reviews about book 2 I haven’t read it. Seeing your thoughts about The sword saint I may have to give book 2 a chance
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I’ve got a full review up on book two. I found the beginning weak but then it picked up for me. I definitely recommend sticking with them because I loved the last one.
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You had such a great reading month and so many different titles! The seven and a half deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is one that I’ve had on my bookshelf for ages and now I’m more excited to get to reading it! Hope you have another great reading month in August!
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So glad to hear you’re in a good place with your blog! I’ve heard so many good things about Evelyn Hardcastle! x
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Thank you! It’s lovely to feel like things are buzzing – even if that just increases the workload, aha!
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Ooh I think you’ll love them – there’s definitely elements aimed for a younger reader. She’s written loads – I’ve got a scattering across the blog!
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Well I gotta practice somehow right? Really? It took me a couple of chapters but then I loved it.
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Sounds like you had a great reading month! I read nine books in July
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I love The Seven and a Half Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle!
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Me too!!
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