Netgalley Shelf | October 2021

In the spirit of catching up on a few posts, I thought it was time to take another sneak-peek at what is currently on my Netgalley shelf in October 2021.

This year, I’ve had a new approach to how I’ve handled Netgalley. It was frustrating me that I was so far behind, never hitting anywhere near publication days. I mentioned previously I was using a Trello board – and it’s working! I switch between one that I’ve totally missed, one I can get done on time, and one that is still in the three month window. Judging by the fact very few books have made it on to the ‘totally missed’ pile for quite some time, it’s working.

Taking a break from blogging, naturally, slowed things down for a while. But I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next for the final stretch of the year. Let’s take a look at what’s outstanding on my shelf at the moment.

Oldest book on shelf

Power Play by Toby Kent

Plot: The enemies aren’t at the gates. They’re already inside.

When controversial US presidential candidate Dale Victor is killed in a plane explosion along with hundreds of passengers, it appears to be a clear-cut case of terrorism. But as criminal barrister Michael Devlin and intelligence agent Joe Dempsey investigate, all the evidence begins to point to the very top of the US government. And now someone is determined to stop Dempsey and Devlin from discovering the truth. At any cost. Together, they must find a way to prove who’s really holding the cards, and free the White House from the deadly grip that has taken hold of power. 

Thoughts: I downloaded this at the beginning of 2020, and I have to admit, I have no recollection of it at all. But re-reading the synopsis has re-sparked my interest. It sounds to be a tense, gripping thriller-esque style book full of action and drama. I’m now looking forward to it.

Newest book on shelf

Warriors of God by Andrzej Sapkowski

Plot: Reynevan begins by hiding away in Bohemia but soon leaves for Silesia, where he carries out dangerous, secret missions entrusted to him by the leaders of the Hussite religion. At the same time he strives to avenge the death of his brother and discover the whereabouts of his beloved. Once again pursued by multiple enemies, Reynevan is constantly getting into and out of trouble.

Sapkowski’s deftly written novel delivers gripping action full of numerous twists and mysteries, seasoned with elements of magic and Sapkowski’s ever-present – and occasionally bawdy – sense of humour. Fans of the Witcher will appreciate the rich panorama of this slice of the Middle Ages.

Thoughts: I’ve started reading The Witcher series (see below), and I’m enjoying Sapkowski’s writing style. When I saw this available for request, it felt a good opportunity to branch into some of his other writing and see if it holds my attention in the same manner. I’m already loving the names…

Oldest publication date

Blood of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski

Plot: For more than a hundred years, humans, dwarves, gnomes and elves lived together in relative peace. But times have changed, the uneasy peace is over and now the races are fighting once again – killing their own kind and each other.

Into this tumultuous time is born a child of prophecy, Ciri, surviving heiress of a bloody revolution, whose strange abilities can change the world – for good, or for evil…

As the threat of war hangs over the land, Geralt the Witcher must protect Ciri from those who are hunting the child for her destructive power.

But this time, Geralt may have met his match.

Thoughts: In my defence, I did start this. But then did the research and realised it was better to read the prequels before ‘book one’ – yes, I got very confused. I’m currently reading The Last Wish and enjoying it, so eager to continue the series when I get to this one.

Newest publication date

Jade Fire Gold by June CL Tan

Plot: Her destiny. His revenge.

In an empire on the brink of war . . .

Ahn is no one, with no past and no family.

Altan is a lost heir, his future stolen away as a child.

When they meet, Altan sees in Ahn a path to reclaiming the throne. Ahn sees a way to finally unlock her past and understand her lethal magical abilities.

But they may have to pay a far deadlier price than either could have imagined.

Thoughts: I’m not sure I need to say anything for this one – the synopsis speaks for itself. This sounds completely up my street and I’m really looking forward to it. Hopefully my high expectations won’t backfire on me. How can I resist anything with destiny in the title? Sign me up!

Most looking forward to…

Here we have it… the book currently outstanding on my Netgalley shelf that I can’t wait to get to. But, slightly awkward, just realised this was my most anticipated last time as well… Really should get this read before my next wrap-up.

Reaper of Souls by Rena Barron

Plot:

Before, Arrah was shamed by having no magic at all. Now, with demons on warpath, she is the only one in the world who has it.

Explosive fantasy set in a West-African world of magic and legend. Perfect for fans of Tomi Adeyemi, Laini Taylor and Sarah J Maas.

Book Two in the extraordinary Kingdom of Souls Trilogy

After years yearning for the gift of magic, Arrah has what she’s always wanted – but it came at too steep a price. Now the last witchdoctor, she’s left to pick up the pieces of a family that betrayed her, a kingdom plunged into chaos, and a love that can never be.

While Arrah returns to the tribal lands to search for survivors, Rudjek hunts down the remnants of the demon army – and uncovers a plot that would destroy what’s left of the world.

The Demon King wants Arrah. If he can’t be stopped, he will destroy everything, and everyone, standing in his way.

Thoughts: Kingdom of Souls was one of my top books for last year. I spent the entire 12 months raving why everyone needed to read it, pronto. How can I not be buzzing to get to the next in the series? I’m hoping this is near the top of my TBR…

There we go – this month’s wrap up. What’s currently sitting on your Netgalley shelf? Do any of these draw your attention?

You may also like:

• Netgalley Shelf | April 2021
• Top Books of 2021 | Q1 Edition

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