I know, I know, I’m late again with this. I kept trying to schedule it and then was doing this crazy thing called being on top of reviews and getting them out on time. So, this kept getting pushed back. But better late than never, right? I’m sharing my top books of 2021 – Q3 edition.
For this wrap-up, I’m just focusing on those I read between July-September. These are books from any genre, ARCs or backlist, reviewed or not, that I gave a 5* rating for.
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Hello, lovelies! Look at this, two months in a row with a classic update. It’s almost like I’m getting back into the swing of this blogging malarkey! October was the first time for a while where I’ve had a solid month of content and broken 1k views. I know, its not about that. But sometimes it is – sometimes you need a little motivation to keep going.
Having decide to bring this blog to its roots, I’ve been having fun thinking up some different style posts which I might try out. Then, of course, I got a whole new idea of a second blog in a wildly different direction to this one, so currently trying to talk myself out of that, aha.
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Hello, lovelies! It feels like a long time since I’ve done a classic wrap-up of what the last month has been like. I’ve been back blogging for a month now, and I swear even in that time I’ve changed my mind about where I want to go with content. So sit back, grab a cuppa, and let’s dive into my monthly check in.
Last month, I thought I was full of new content and different directions. Then I had the insightful moment of realising that wasn’t what I wanted. I’m going back to basics for the time being, and making this a platform purely about books. It stops me trying to be something I don’t want to be, prevents me from spending hours on content, and gives me more time for the whole point of this blog: reading.
And I’m excited! For the fist time in a while, I truly feel I’ve made a decision about the blog that I’m looking forward to, supports my passions and is something I can get behind. My reading buzz is back and I’m reading more than I’ve done in the last 18 months.
Hang on to your hats, lovelies, because I’m going back to what I love!
On a calmer note, let’s take a look at what I’ve been reading in September. About halfway through the month, I started burying myself in books, then I had a week off with glorious weather, so it finally feels I’m reading properly.
September’s Reading: 5 books
Year to Date: 44 out of 60 (1 ahead)
The first novel written for an adult audience by the mega-selling author of the Divergent franchise: five twenty-something heroes famous for saving the world when they were teenagers must face even greater demons—and reconsider what it means to be a hero . . . by destiny or by choice.
A decade ago near Chicago, five teenagers defeated the otherworldly enemy known as the Dark One, whose reign of terror brought widespread destruction and death. The seemingly un-extraordinary teens—Sloane, Matt, Ines, Albie, and Esther—had been brought together by a clandestine government agency because one of them was fated to be the “Chosen One,” prophesized to save the world. With the goal achieved, humankind celebrated the victors and began to mourn their lost loved ones.
Ten years later, though the champions remain celebrities, the world has moved forward and a whole, younger generation doesn’t seem to recall the days of endless fear. But Sloane remembers. It’s impossible for her to forget when the paparazzi haunt her every step just as the Dark One still haunts her dreams. Unlike everyone else, she hasn’t moved on; she’s adrift—no direction, no goals, no purpose. On the eve of the Ten Year Celebration of Peace, a new trauma hits the Chosen: the death of one of their own. And when they gather for the funeral at the enshrined site of their triumph, they discover to their horror that the Dark One’s reign never really ended.
Thoughts: I enjoyed this far more than I was expecting. Having not had the best track record with the author, I wasn’t sure. I was pleasantly surprised: a new taken on the ‘chosen ones’ genre with fiery characters and an intriguing plot. A full review is coming but I liked this.
Introducing Geralt the Witcher – revered and hated – who holds the line against the monsters plaguing humanity in the bestselling series that inspired the Witcher video games and a major Netflix show.
Geralt of Rivia is a Witcher, a man whose magic powers and lifelong training have made him a brilliant fighter and a merciless assassin.
Yet he is no ordinary killer: he hunts the vile fiends that ravage the land and attack the innocent.
But not everything monstrous-looking is evil; not everything fair is good . . . and in every fairy tale there is a grain of truth.
Andrzej Sapkowski, winner of the World Fantasy Lifetime Achievement award, started an international phenomenon with his Witcher series. The Last Wish is the perfect introduction to this one-of-a-kind fantasy world.
Thoughts: I thought I had the first Witcher book on my Netgalley shelf, then found there was a better reading order, so quick trip to the library got me The Last Wish. I loved this: the writing style is far more humorous than I was expecting. The book is sheer entertainment!
For Malik, the Solstasia festival is a chance to escape his war-stricken home and start a new life with his sisters in the prosperous desert city of 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; her court threatens mutiny; and Solstasia looms like a knife over her neck. Grief-stricken, 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?
Thoughts: I’ve had this on my list since last year, and now kicking myself I didn’t get to it sooner. One of the top books for 2021 for me at the moment: I adored everything about this and eagerly awaiting the second instalment. Full review coming soon but a definite recommendation!
Guided by the great blue dragon Tintaglia, they came from the sea: a Tangle of serpents fighting their way up the Rain Wilds River, the first to make the perilous journey to the cocooning grounds in generations. Many have died along the way. With its acid waters and impenetrable forest, it is a hard place for any to survive.
People are changed by the Rain Wilds, subtly or otherwise. One such is Thymara. Born with black claws and other aberrations, she should have been exposed at birth. But her father saved her and her mother has never forgiven him. Like everyone else, Thymara is fascinated by the return of dragons: it is as if they symbolise the return of hope to their war-torn world. Leftrin, captain of the liveship Tarman, also has an interest in the hatching; as does Bingtown newlywed, Alise Finbok, who has made it her life’s work to study all there is to know of dragons.
But the creatures which emerge from the cocoons are a travesty of the powerful, shining dragons of old. Stunted and deformed, they cannot fly; some seem witless and bestial. Soon, they become a danger and a burden to the Rain Wilders: something must be done. The dragons claim an ancestral memory of a fabled Elderling city far upriver: perhaps there the dragons will find their true home. But Kelsingra appears on no maps and they cannot get there on their own: a band of dragon keepers, hunters and chroniclers must attend them.
To be a dragon keeper is a dangerous job: their charges are vicious and unpredictable, and there are many unknown perils on the journey to a city which may not even exist…
Thoughts: I was in a fantasy mood and thought it had been a while since I ventured into Robin Hobb’s world. The Rain Wild Chronicles are next up for me, and I spent a satisfying week devouring Dragon Keeper while sitting in the garden. Solid, pure fantasy – what’s not to love?
Darkness falls…despair abounds…evil reigns…
Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, have just saved the rebel state from destruction by the mighty forces of King Galbatorix, cruel ruler of the Empire. Now Eragon must travel to Ellesmera, land of the elves, for further training in the skills of the Dragon Rider: magic and swordsmanship. Soon he is on the journey of a lifetime, his eyes open to awe-inspring new places and people, his days filled with fresh adventure. But chaos and betrayal plague him at every turn, and nothing is what it seems. Before long, Eragon doesn’t know whom he can trust.
Meanwhile, his cousin Roran must fight a new battle–one that might put Eragon in even graver danger.
Will the king’s dark hand strangle all resistance? Eragon may not escape with even his life. . . .
Thoughts: What can I say? I’ve been dipping into this for about a month by having it as a before-bed book. Reaching a point when I needed to catch up on writing reviews, I thought I’d buy myself some time by indulging in this. To be honest, I needed the comfort.
What have you been reading lately? Let me know!
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Hello, lovelies. It’s been a while since I’ve written a bookish update (been a while since I’ve written any kind of update). The blogging break was much needed, but does mean that I’m catching up on a few posts. I’m returning today with my second ‘top books of 2021’ (Q2 edition!).
This time, I’m focusing on books from April-June. When narrowing down what I’ve been reading, I was a) pleasantly surprised that I’d read more than I thought I had and b) disappointed to find I’ve only got a handful that made the 5* rating. Out of those few, only one of them was a new author.
I’ll be writing up my Q3 edition of this very shortly, but – for now – see what you think of the ones that made the cut for this version!
Sistersong by Lucy Holland
Publisher: Macmillan | Date: 2021 | Genre: Fantasy | Review
Plot: 535 AD. In the ancient kingdom of Dumnonia, King Cador’s children inherit a fragmented land abandoned by the Romans.
Riva, scarred in a terrible fire, fears she will never heal.
Keyne battles to be seen as the king’s son, when born a daughter.
And Sinne, the spoiled youngest girl, yearns for romance.
All three fear a life of confinement within the walls of the hold – a last bastion of strength against the invading Saxons. But change comes on the day ash falls from the sky, bringing Myrddhin, meddler and magician, and Tristan, a warrior whose secrets will tear the siblings apart. Riva, Keyne and Sinne must take fate into their own hands, or risk being tangled in a story they could never have imagined; one of treachery, love and ultimately, murder. It’s a story that will shape the destiny of Britain.
The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn
Publisher: Avon | Date: 2006 | Genre: Historical Romance
Plot: 1814 promises to be another eventful season, but not, this author believes, for Anthony Bridgerton, London’s most elusive bachelor, who has shown no indication that he plans to marry.
And in truth, why should he? When it comes to playing the consummate rake, nobody does it better…
—Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers, April 1814
But this time, the gossip columnists have it wrong. Anthony Bridgerton hasn’t just decided to marry—he’s even chosen a wife! The only obstacle is his intended’s older sister, Kate Sheffield—the most meddlesome woman ever to grace a London ballroom. The spirited schemer is driving Anthony mad with her determination to stop the betrothal, but when he closes his eyes at night, Kate is the woman haunting his increasingly erotic dreams…
Contrary to popular belief, Kate is quite sure that reformed rakes do not make the best husbands—and Anthony Bridgerton is the most wicked rogue of them all. Kate is determined to protect her sister—but she fears her own heart is vulnerable. And when Anthony’s lips touch hers, she’s suddenly afraid she might not be able to resist the reprehensible rake herself…
The House of Lamentations by S.G MacLean
Publisher: Quercus | Date: 2020 | Genre: Historical Fiction | Review
Plot: Summer, 1658, and the Republic may finally be safe: the combined Stuart and Spanish forces have been heavily defeated by the English and French armies on the coast of Flanders, and the King’s cause appears finished.
Yet one final, desperate throw of the dice is planned. And who can stop them if not Captain Damian Seeker?
Shards of Earth by Adrian Tchaikovsky
Publisher: Tor | Date: 2021 | Genre: Science Fiction | Review
Plot: The war is over. Its heroes forgotten. Until one chance discovery . . .
Idris has neither aged nor slept since they remade him in the war. And one of humanity’s heroes now scrapes by on a freelance salvage vessel, to avoid the attention of greater powers.
After earth was destroyed, mankind created a fighting elite to save their species, enhanced humans such as Idris. In the silence of space they could communicate, mind-to-mind, with the enemy. Then their alien aggressors, the Architects, simply disappeared – and Idris and his kind became obsolete
Now, fifty years later, Idris and his crew have discovered something strange abandoned in space. It’s clearly the work of the Architects – but are they returning? And if so, why? Hunted by gangsters, cults and governments, Idris and his crew race across the galaxy hunting for answers. For they now possess something of incalculable value, that many would kill to obtain.
There we have it, my top books of 2021, Q2 edition.
What have you been reading lately? Any of these catch your eye?
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I spoke recently about how I’d had a few changes in my life over the last few months. Since I last posted consistently, I’ve become both a home-owner and a car-owner. First time for both for me. Both a huge learning curve in, well, being an adult. It’s incredible (aka scary) how little I actually know about what I need to do. I never would have said this time last year I’d be writing a blog post sharing my top money saving tips.
I’m lucky that I have an incredibly close relationship with my parents, which meant I’ve been able to stay at home while saving up. And to find a silver lining on the last 18 months: cancelled gym memberships, no train fares and none of those small expenses of everyday out of the house did wonders for my savings. The new job also helped…
I’ve always been good with money. I’ve worked since I was 16 and always been careful to have more going into my savings than coming out of it. But the last few months have been a huge eye-opener.
*This post contains referral links
Today, I want to share a few things I’ve learnt over the past few years when it comes to money management.
Online banking makes it so easy to move money. If you’re able to put some money aside each month, make sure it’s an account with the best interest. There are multiple saving accounts out there with different rules and regulations: some give you access to your funds, others you have to commit to a year without touching it. Find one that suits your needs – and check out those interest rates. It may only equate to a few ££’s a year, but that’s better than nothing, right?
This one sounds like a rule we all should know: paying annually (if you can) tends to work out cheaper than paying monthly. But check those accounts: I suddenly realised my Amazon Prime was on monthly due to the roundabout way it got set up. While it meant one big pay-out, it also meant saving £16 in a year for the same service. Take five and have a quick check, especially if you’ve been set up a while and stop noticing.
I don’t mean haggle over everything (unless that’s your thing, in which case, I’m envious!). But your phone bills, your TV service, your insurance… anything that you need to renew, see what they can offer you. I did this recently for my phone – nearly £4 a month cheaper, plus more data than I’m currently on. The best part? I didn’t even need to pick up the phone: I did the whole thing over an online chat. The comparison sites help here – remember, your provider doesn’t want to lose you.
£4 might not sound a lot – but that’s £48 per year saved, plus extra data!
Okay, hear me out. Auto-renews are great for the daily things in life. Things that don’t need renegotiation; things you don’t want to forget about. But what if you have forgotten about them? What if you don’t need them?
For example: I started changing my mind about Tailwind, and I cancelled. I still had access to the features I needed until my account officially stopped. When did it stop? Right when I was moving house. There’s no way I would have remembered, and that would have been over a £100 gone without me realising until too late.
If you’re in a trial period of something; if you’ve got a subscription that still has time on it; if you’re not 100% sure… Cancel. It will run until the end of that billing time and it’s (usually) super easy to re-activate. But if it’s something you don’t use and you’re likely to forget, you’ll kick yourself if you get that bill through for another year.
This might seem like the obvious: don’t buy stuff you don’t need. But it’s true. I had an entire drawer full of skin-care samples… so much so that I haven’t needed to buy anything for six months, just using them up. I’d use a product, replace it, get samples along with it, stick them in a drawer and carry on with the full size. Then I realised how much was sitting there ‘saving it’ for holidays, while I was spending on items I had in miniature.
This could equate to anything: clothes, skin-care, food (especially food – make sure you hit those best-buy dates before buying new). Just double check you’ve got one before buying new?
We’re all pretty savvy when it comes to online shopping these days: clicking through a number of different websites to find the best price. No kidding when I say I spent £100 less on my saucepans than the first site I saw them on. It’s worth checking it out.
But what about cashback? This was new to me until about a year ago. Now? I’m obsessed. For the sake of clicking into one website before your chosen shop, you can get money back – may only be 5% but you were spending that money anyway, so you’ve got nothing to lose.
I’ve been using TopCashBack* for a while now. It’s a slow-burn – percentages vary and it can take weeks for the money to come back to you. But for the effort of making two extra clicks? Damn right I want that 50p back in my wallet, not the retailers.
And it isn’t just retailers. Comparison sites and insurance companies are on there as well, and if you hit the exclusive offers, the pay-outs can be worth it.
It’s so easy: click into Topcashback, find your merchant, go to retail site like normal, get money back. Done.
Want to give it a go? Feel free to use my referral link*.
*if you sign up via my link and stay with the program, I’ll receive a £5 bonus.
Wow, I think this might be the longest post I’ve written. What money saving tips would you share?
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Um, hello? Look who’s dipping her toes in the blogging waters and figuring out if this will be sink or swim. I’m slowly returning to blogging, and curious more than anything where this journey will take me.
So… first post since early June. Oops? I have my reasons though. Mainly being…
I quit blogging.
Well…
Okay, I didn’t.
But I came close. There were several times during this break where I’d no intention of coming back.
I know how dramatic that sounds. There were several factors – both personal and blogging – that played a part.
Not only that, I moved into my first house, on my own. It meant a wild couple of months sorting everything, followed by a crazy few months adapting to being alone and all that comes with it. I was barely reading, let alone anything more.
Nada. As mentioned, I wasn’t reading: I had nothing to review.
I also struggled finding content that inspired me after falling into the trap of reading loads of (very well-written) posts about taking your blog to the next level. As a hobby blogger, it started to feel I’d gone stagnant and was left behind with what I wanted to do.
While related to the first point, this is also on me. When I’m in the blogging mood, I spend all day every day on it. Around work and adulting, I’d be commenting, setting up promo’s, creating graphics… For no return. I saw no rise in numbers, no increased engagement, nothing. And missed out on a lot of reading/writing/other hobbies time. I had nothing to write about because all I was doing was back-end blog admin. Vicious cycle, huh?
Short on time, no enjoyment, and not inspired?
That, my friends, is why I disappeared for nearly three months. This isn’t a living. It’s not even a side-hustle. It’s a place for me to shout about books and other things, and if I wasn’t having fun doing it, there didn’t seem to be much point.
It was about here where I honestly didn’t see myself coming back to it. But now real life has started to settle, my attitude is changing. I still want to shout about books. I found myself editing old posts, and taking great satisfaction in doing so. At the end of the day, I still liked being a blogger.
I can’t say numbers don’t matter because I just proved to myself they do. But what matters more is knowing where my line of being satisfied is, and how much time I’m prepared to spend getting to it.
So, I’m back. I’m taking a slightly different approach in terms of how I engage etc, protecting my own time and well-being rather than letting this exhaust me. I’ve got a few different things planned which I’m excited for, and have some reviews lined up for some great books.
Let the blogging commence…
Have you ever lost all motivation to be a blogger? How did you get yourself out of it?
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I know we often say each month is a blur, but I honestly don’t know what happened in April. I had some pretty big stuff happening in reality that meant a lot of stress and chaos, so I’m blaming it all on that.
You know all those good intentions I had for the blog last month? Yeaaah, they didn’t go too well. I’ve been struggling with the blog recently to be honest. I’m definitely in a spell where everything feels it’s plateaued and I need to have a think about what I want out of it.
It doesn’t help that it turns out there’s been a problem with connecting to the WordPress Reader. But at least there is a reason why my normal average 20 likes has been down to 2 with very limited engagement on new posts. Hopefully that will be fixed soon.
I also have two posts scheduled. That’s it. Feel like there might be a break coming soon while I get everything in order.
But, for now, here’s the fun stuff!
*External links below are affiliate links, meaning at no extra cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Find out more here.
April’s Reading: 5 books
Year to Date: 18 out of 60 (1 behind)
I was definitely reading more again last month, which I really enjoyed. It was nice to get a few titles ticked off.
In the ballrooms and drawing rooms of Regency London, rules abound. From their earliest days, children of aristocrats learn how to address an earl and curtsey before a prince—while other dictates of the ton are unspoken yet universally understood. A proper duke should be imperious and aloof. A young, marriageable lady should be amiable… but not too amiable.
Daphne Bridgerton has always failed at the latter. The fourth of eight siblings in her close-knit family, she has formed friendships with the most eligible young men in London. Everyone likes Daphne for her kindness and wit. But no one truly desires her. She is simply too deuced honest for that, too unwilling to play the romantic games that captivate gentlemen.
Amiability is not a characteristic shared by Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings. Recently returned to England from abroad, he intends to shun both marriage and society—just as his callous father shunned Simon throughout his painful childhood. Yet an encounter with his best friend’s sister offers another option. If Daphne agrees to a fake courtship, Simon can deter the mamas who parade their daughters before him. Daphne, meanwhile, will see her prospects and her reputation soar.
The plan works like a charm—at first. But amid the glittering, gossipy, cut-throat world of London’s elite, there is only one certainty: love ignores every rule…
Thoughts: After taking myself by surprise how much I enjoyed Bridgerton, I couldn’t resist when I saw the first three books available through the digital library. A whirlwind of romance, wit and humour, I enjoyed the book more than the series. It was a good escapism and something different for me.
535 AD. In the ancient kingdom of Dumnonia, King Cador’s children inherit a fragmented land abandoned by the Romans.
Riva, scarred in a terrible fire, fears she will never heal.
Keyne battles to be seen as the king’s son, when born a daughter.
And Sinne, the spoiled youngest girl, yearns for romance.
All three fear a life of confinement within the walls of the hold – a last bastion of strength against the invading Saxons. But change comes on the day ash falls from the sky, bringing Myrddhin, meddler and magician, and Tristan, a warrior whose secrets will tear the siblings apart. Riva, Keyne and Sinne must take fate into their own hands, or risk being tangled in a story they could never have imagined; one of treachery, love and ultimately, murder. It’s a story that will shape the destiny of Britain.
Thoughts: It’s a sign of how far behind I am that the book is in the round-up with the review already published! You know by now how much I enjoyed Sistersong and it’s a definite recommendation from me. If you enjoy the blend of historical and fantasy, check this book out!
814 promises to be another eventful season, but not, this author believes, for Anthony Bridgerton, London’s most elusive bachelor, who has shown no indication that he plans to marry.
And in truth, why should he? When it comes to playing the consummate rake, nobody does it better…
—Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers, April 1814
But this time, the gossip columnists have it wrong. Anthony Bridgerton hasn’t just decided to marry—he’s even chosen a wife! The only obstacle is his intended’s older sister, Kate Sheffield—the most meddlesome woman ever to grace a London ballroom. The spirited schemer is driving Anthony mad with her determination to stop the betrothal, but when he closes his eyes at night, Kate is the woman haunting his increasingly erotic dreams…
Contrary to popular belief, Kate is quite sure that reformed rakes do not make the best husbands—and Anthony Bridgerton is the most wicked rogue of them all. Kate is determined to protect her sister—but she fears her own heart is vulnerable. And when Anthony’s lips touch hers, she’s suddenly afraid she might not be able to resist the reprehensible rake herself…
Thoughts: Yep, I continued the series. I really enjoyed getting to know Anthony’s character in this one whereas the show hasn’t yet done him justice. This was another fun whirlwind, even if you know from the start the final destination, the journey is still enjoyable. I really like Quinn’s writing style.
Summer, 1658, and the Republic may finally be safe: the combined Stuart and Spanish forces have been heavily defeated by the English and French armies on the coast of Flanders, and the King’s cause appears finished.
Yet one final, desperate throw of the dice is planned. And who can stop them if not Captain Damian Seeker?
The final gripping book in this acclaimed and award-winning series of historical thrillers. Will Seeker’s legacy endure?
Thoughts: Another with the review already published – I’m so far behind! A fun return to the Cromwell era with much-loved characters. MacLean has a way of bringing to life the rough exterior but soft heart in Seeker and I love it. This whole series is a recommendation for historical fiction fans.
Will she accept his offer before the clock strikes midnight?
Sophie Beckett never dreamed she’d be able to sneak into Lady Bridgerton’s famed masquerade ball—or that “Prince Charming” would be waiting there for her! Though the daughter of an earl, Sophie has been relegated to the role of servant by her disdainful stepmother. But now, spinning in the strong arms of the debonair and devastatingly handsome Benedict Bridgerton, she feels like royalty. Alas, she knows all enchantments must end when the clock strikes midnight.
Who was that extraordinary woman? Ever since that magical night, a radiant vision in silver has blinded Benedict to the attractions of any other—except, perhaps this alluring and oddly familiar beauty dressed in housemaid’s garb whom he feels compelled to rescue from a most disagreeable situation. He has sworn to find and wed his mystery miss, but this breathtaking maid makes him weak with wanting her. Yet, if he offers his heart, will Benedict sacrifice his only chance for a fairy tale love?
Thoughts: Again, another fun read. I enjoyed this, true, and it had some laugh out loud moments, but there were a few points where I wasn’t completely sold on the characterisations. Maybe because I’ve read a few of them back-to-back I was noticing more? Still, I’m glad I continued the series.
How about you? How was your reading last month?
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Hello, hello! Welcome back for another bookish post, this time showcasing my top books of 2021 (so far). I’ve had the idea for this one for a while and figured it was something that I wanted to write – so here goes.
At the end of each year, I stare helplessly at my bookshelves and try and remember which books I particularly loved, or stood out for me. Flicking through Goodreads only gets me so far to figure out what my 5* reads were. The easy solution? Keep track of the best reads as the year goes on! Genius!
So, without any further ado, I’d like to present to you (drum roll, please), the books that have all been 5* reads for me this year. The reviews for each book (where applicable) are linked if you want to find out exactly why I loved them.
Please note: this only goes up to books I’ve read until the end of March (as otherwise my whole quarterly approach to this post goes completely out the window!)
Publisher: Tor | Date: 2021 | Genre: Fantasy | Review
Plot: When a child goes missing in Edinburgh’s darkest streets, young Ropa investigates. She’ll need to call on Zimbabwean magic as well as her Scottish pragmatism to hunt down clues. But as shadows lengthen, will the hunter become the hunted?
When ghosts talk, she will listen…
Ropa dropped out of school to become a ghostalker. Now she speaks to Edinburgh’s dead, carrying messages to the living. A girl’s gotta earn a living, and it seems harmless enough. Until, that is, the dead whisper that someone’s bewitching children–leaving them husks, empty of joy and life. It’s on Ropa’s patch, so she feels honor-bound to investigate. But what she learns will change her world.
She’ll dice with death (not part of her life plan…), discovering an occult library and a taste for hidden magic. She’ll also experience dark times. For Edinburgh hides a wealth of secrets, and Ropa’s gonna hunt them all down.
Publisher: HarperVoyager | Date: 2019 | Genre: Fantasy | Review
Plot: For generations, the forests of Ixachipan have echoed with the clash of weapons, as nation after nation has fallen to the Empire of Songs – and to the unending, magical music that binds its people together. Now, only two free tribes remain.
The Empire is not their only enemy. Monstrous, scaled predators lurk in rivers and streams, with a deadly music of their own.
As battle looms, fighters on both sides must decide how far they will go for their beliefs and for the ones they love – a veteran general seeks peace through war, a warrior and a shaman set out to understand their enemies, and an ambitious noble tries to bend ancient magic to her will.
Publisher: Rebellion | Date: 2021 | Genre: Fantasy | Review
Plot: In the holy city of Tova, the winter solstice is usually a time for celebration and renewal, but this year it coincides with a solar eclipse, a rare celestial event proscribed by the Sun Priest as an unbalancing of the world.
Meanwhile, a ship launches from a distant city bound for Tova and set to arrive on the solstice. The captain of the ship, Xiala, is a disgraced Teek whose song can calm the waters around her as easily as it can warp a man’s mind. Her ship carries one passenger. Described as harmless, the passenger, Serapio, is a young man, blind, scarred, and cloaked in destiny. As Xiala well knows, when a man is described as harmless, he usually ends up being a villain.
Crafted with unforgettable characters, Rebecca Roanhorse has created an epic adventure exploring the decadence of power amidst the weight of history and the struggle of individuals swimming against the confines of society and their broken pasts in the most original series debut of the decade.
Publisher: Bantam Books | Date: 2020 | Genre: Historical fiction/Fantasy | Review
Plot: AD 375 – The Dark Age is drawing near . . .
As Rome’s legions abandon their forts, chaos grows on the fringes of Britannia. In the far west, the shattered forces of the House of Pendragon huddle together in order to protect the royal heir – their one beacon of hope.
For Lucanus, their great war leader, is missing, presumed dead. And the people are abandoning them. For in this time of crisis, a challenger has arisen, a False King with an army swollen by a horde of bloody-thirsty barbarians desperate for vengeance.
One slim hope remains for Lucanus’ band of warrior-allies, the Grim Wolves. Guided by the druid, Myrrdin, they go in search of a great treasure – a vessel that is supposedly a gift from the gods. With such an artefact in their possession, the people would surely return and rally to their cause? Success will mean a war unlike any other, a battle between two kings for a legacy that will echo down the centuries. And should they fail? Well, then all is lost . . .In The Bear King, James Wilde’s rousing reimagining of how the myth of King Arthur, Excalibur and Camelot rose out of the fragile pages of history reaches its shattering conclusion.
Publisher: John Murray Press | Date: 2021 | Genre: Historical
Plot: Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet has it all: her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. When the Nazis march into Paris, Odile stands to lose everything she holds dear, including her beloved library. Together with her fellow librarians, Odile joins the Resistance with the best weapons she has: books. But when the war finally ends, instead of freedom, Odile tastes the bitter sting of unspeakable betrayal.
Montana, 1983: Lily is a lonely teenager looking for adventure in small-town Montana. Her interest is piqued by her solitary, elderly neighbor. As Lily uncovers more about her neighbor’s mysterious past, she finds that they share a love of language, the same longings, and the same intense jealousy, never suspecting that a dark secret from the past connects them.
A powerful novel that explores the consequences of our choices and the relationships that make us who we are—family, friends, and favorite authors—The Paris Library shows that extraordinary heroism can sometimes be found in the quietest of places.
Publisher: Corgi | Date: 2007 | Genre: Fantasy
Plot: One boy…
One dragon…
A world of adventure.
When Eragon finds a polished blue stone in the forest, he thinks it is the lucky discovery of a poor farm boy; perhaps it will buy his family meat for the winter. But when the stone brings a dragon hatchling, Eragon soon realizes he has stumbled upon a legacy nearly as old as the Empire itself.
Overnight his simple life is shattered, and he is thrust into a perilous new world of destiny, magic, and power. With only an ancient sword and the advice of an old storyteller for guidance, Eragon and the fledgling dragon must navigate the dangerous terrain and dark enemies of an Empire ruled by a king whose evil knows no bounds.
Can Eragon take up the mantle of the legendary Dragon Riders? The fate of the Empire may rest in his hands.
Publisher: Pan Books | Date: 2020 | Genre: Science Fiction | Review
Plot: Lee’s best friend went missing on Bodmin Moor, four years ago. She and Mal were chasing rumours of monsters when they found something all too real. Now Mal is back, but where has she been, and who is she working for?
When government physicist Kay Amal Khan is attacked, the security services investigate. This leads MI5’s Julian Sabreur deep into terrifying new territory, where he clashes with mysterious agents of an unknown power who may or may not be human. And Julian’s only clue is some grainy footage – showing a woman who supposedly died on Bodmin Moor.
Khan’s extradimensional research was purely theoretical, until she found cracks between our world and countless others. Parallel Earths where monsters live. These cracks are getting wider every day, so who knows what might creep through? Or what will happen when those walls finally come crashing down…
What have you been reading lately? Do any of these catch your eye?
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One day, I’m going to write one of these without feeling inundated with books that I should have read by now. But today is not that day. I’ve had a few books come from different directions recently, plus my digital library going crazy with getting books in before I was expecting them, meaning my TBR pile has gone wild. But that doesn’t stop it being fun taking a little look at my Netgalley shelf.
I’m making a real effort to get my reviews done within their three month window this year. Yes, that does mean that I now have a Trello board to help me stay on top. But you know what? It’s kinda working, so I’m not dismissing it.
Between getting both organised and swamped (go figure), I didn’t realise how long it had been since I last wrote a netgalley shelf review. Given that we are a quarter of the way through the year (stop the bus: how did that happen?!), it’s time to take a look at my Netgalley shelf.
The Wolf of Oren-Yaro by K.S Villoso
Plot: ‘They called me the Bitch Queen, the she-wolf, because I murdered a man and exiled my king the night before they crowned me.’
Born under the towers of Oren-yaro, Queen Talyien inherited a deeply divided kingdom, devastated by years of war. Her marriage to the son of a rival clan was meant to herald peace, yet her fiancé disappeared before their reign could even begin.
Now, years later, Talyien receives a message that will send her across on the sea. Yet what was meant as an effort to reconcile the past leaves her stranded in a land she doesn’t know, with assassins at her back and no idea who she can trust.
If Talyien is to survive, she must embrace her namesake.
A wolf of Oren-yaro is not tamed.
Thoughts: I think this book sounds like so much fun! A bad-ass female protagonist – what more do we want? Plus I feel the whole thing could be a tense, epic adventure. I’m hoping to get to it soon although it has been on my shelf for over a year now – oops.
Shards of Earth by Adrian Tchaikovsky
Plot: The war is over. Its heroes forgotten. Until one chance discovery . . .
Idris has neither aged nor slept since they remade his mind in the war. And one of humanity’s heroes now scrapes by on a freelance salvage vessel, to avoid the attention of greater powers.
Eighty years ago, Earth was destroyed by an alien enemy. Many escaped, but millions more died. So mankind created enhanced humans such as Idris – who could communicate mind-to-mind with our aggressors. Then these ‘Architects’ simply disappeared and Idris and his kind became obsolete.
Now, Idris and his crew have something strange, abandoned in space. It’s clearly the work of the Architects – but are they really returning? And if so, why? Hunted by gangsters, cults and governments, Idris and his crew race across the galaxy as they search for answers. For they now possess something of incalculable value, and many would kill to obtain it.
Thoughts: I received this one as part of a blog tour for next month and I’m really excited for it. I’ve only just started Tchaikovsky but what I have read, I’ve enjoyed. I’m also excited this will be a series – if it’s enjoyable, I’ve got a new world of adventure waiting!
Rivers Ran Red by J.A Grierson
Plot: In a whirlwind of fire and carnage, Attila the Hun wheels half a million horsemen towards Roman territory. In his path, corruption and greed have undermined the ancient empire and the vacillating emperor, Valentinian III, has cut her legions to a sliver. But out of this smoke a wily, battle-scarred general, Avitus, rises in her defence. Making allies of his enemies, Avitus rallies barbarian warlords to fight for the Eagle and crosses the Alps to confront Rome’s nemesis. But when Attila offers to split the Empire’s corpse with the Goths Avitus’ march becomes a suicide mission.
One war will decide the fate of civilization.
The Battle of the Catalaunian Plains rages through the night. Individual acts of bravery and cowardice tip the final balance. Rivers run red and burst their banks with blood. Dawn draws a portrait of unimaginable carnage.
In a tale of epic deeds, heroes confront insurmountable odds with honour and courage. Avitus faces a myriad of enemies, both Roman and barbarian but can one man save civilisation?
Thoughts: I haven’t reviewed this era as much but I adore anything set in the Roman times. As soon as I saw the synopsis, I knew it would be the type of book that I’d really enjoy. Been a delay getting to it, but I’m looking forward to reading to this.
She Who Became The Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan
Plot: In a famine-stricken village on a dusty plain, a seer shows two children their fates. For a family’s eighth-born son, there’s greatness. For the second daughter, nothing.
In 1345, China lies restless under harsh Mongol rule. And when a bandit raid wipes out their home, the two children must somehow survive. Zhu Chongba despairs and gives in. But the girl resolves to overcome her destiny. So she takes her dead brother’s identity and begins her journey. Can Zhu escape what’s written in the stars, as rebellion sweeps the land? Or can she claim her brother’s greatness – and rise as high as she can dream?
Thoughts: This is a new type of setting for me both in place and time. I love the premise, and who else thinks this has Mulan feelings to it? This is a new author for me and I’m intrigued. It’s due out in July, so should get to this one soon.
Reaper of Souls by Rena Barron
Plot: 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: I’m so excited for Reaper of Souls. The first book was one of my top books for 2020: the writing; the characters; the magic… I loved everything about it. I can’t wait to dive back into this world and get swept up in what I’m certain will be another whirlwind.
Have you read any of these books? What’s on your Netgalley shelf right now?
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Happy April! I’m not going to deny I’m feeling smug that my monthly update can actually post on the 1st of the month, and still stick to my normal schedule. It’s the simple things in life, right? But as it is that time of month again, time to see what was on my bookshelf in March.
After Feb being such a write-off, March has been a lot of self-reflection. My hope is that April will see me putting some of those thoughts into action across all different elements of my life.
I have strong blog intentions this month. It’s been frustrating me lately that I can’t seem to grow on any platform, so it’s time to turn things up a gear. I’ve been pouring back over the guides and resources I’ve been using to give myself a fresh outlook.
I’ve just introduced a mailing list, which is scary but exciting. After seeing my Pinterest crash, then mess it up further by accidentally deleting the wrong thing, I want to spend time figuring out this platform again. I also plan on changing up some graphics to give me more of a brand feeling for Twitter.
Honestly, I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve been stuck for a while, but kept trying to do the same thing, so I’m excited to see what these changes will mean.
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A Rambling Reviewer 