Kiara Frey is not the most popular girl in her village. She's been seen as something...other for far too long. Her ability to fight just madeSummary:
Kiara Frey is not the most popular girl in her village. She's been seen as something...other for far too long. Her ability to fight just made her stand out further. But that ability has kept her brother safe all these years.
It continues to keep him safe as Kiara finds herself taking his place in the battle that is to come. However, Kiara is about to step into more than she could have ever prepared herself for. As a Knight, she's about to learn the true meaning of fighting evil.
Review:
Excuse me, I need to go and find a quiet corner to sigh in. Sorry. I was SO excited for To Kill a Shadow, so even being a little disappointed by it is a lot. The truth is that I couldn't get into this book.
There are plenty of good reasons for that, I swear. For one, Kiara. Ugh. I wanted to smack that girl. She has strong "I'm not like all the other girl vibes," which drove me up the wall. Combined with the fact that she and the other primary characters don't develop well, I needed more to get me invested.
It's the same for the romance. Kiara and Jude are just magically drawn to each other. Given the fantasy elements, I would almost have bought it better if they were magically drawn together. It distracted from the plot.
I would have given anything to see more of this world and more development in the plot (and characters). This plot had a lot of potential, which is why I'm so disappointed. And it's not like a 3-star rating is even all that bad – so that should tell you how high my hopes were.
Highlights: Romantic Fantasy Fighting for Your Life Dangerous Mists
Nina has had a rough (horrible) life. She and her friends all lost their families, so they did the best they could to survive on the streets.Summary:
Nina has had a rough (horrible) life. She and her friends all lost their families, so they did the best they could to survive on the streets. Unfortunately, that sort of life is tough on children, so there was more loss on the way.
In an act of desperation, Nina's own brother sells her into slavery. As it turns out, the guy who bought her needs her for a specific reason – she needs to replace the recently (and secretly) deceased princess.
Review:
I think we've all read a series (or ten) about commoners secretly becoming royalty, but I still couldn't resist giving Nina the Starry Bride Vol. 1 a try. While this series does lean on many tropes, it has a certain level of charm that makes it feel unique.
The first volume goes a long way in establishing the plot and core characters. We have Nina (now Alisha), her two half-brothers (pretend?), the king, the queen (a potential problem), etc. Each character seems to bring their own plot, which is nice. It means there's a lot of potential going forward.
At the end of the day, all I want to do is protect little Nina. She's so young and has gone through so much. They designed her character well because she's very earnest and believable. She's the perfect protagonist.
Nina the Starry Bride Vol. 1 is a solid start to the series, and you better believe that I'll be reading the rest of it!
Highlights: Manga – Shojo Romantic Fantasy Secrets & Royalty
Will I continue the series? Yes
Thanks to Kodansha Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Most people only see garbage when looking at a trash heap. But Rudo sees the potential. He understands (better than most people) that there'sSummary:
Most people only see garbage when looking at a trash heap. But Rudo sees the potential. He understands (better than most people) that there's no need for so much waste in our society. So he does what he can to reclaim and reuse.
It's gotten him a bit of a bad reputation. Then again, as the son of a serial killer, he already had a bad reputation. Unfortunately, that's why everyone, even those he called friends, is willing to think the worst of him.
Review:
Oh! What an interesting start to a new series! Gachiakuta Vol. 1 kicks off a new series by Kei Urana, who happened to apprentice under Atsushi Okubo. Obviously, I had to give his work a try! Thus far, I'm not disappointed.
I will say that much of Gachiakuta Vol. 1 had to focus on worldbuilding and setting up. So it's probably a little slower than the rest of the series (I assume). That said, it did cover a lot of ground. We have our main character, the world, a fair amount of politics, at least two mysteries, and more.
This is an interesting start to a series. I'm curious to see where it will go, and I wish I had more to binge-read on the spot. I feel this is one of those series that will only get better with time.
Highlights: Action Manga Shojo Apprentice of Atsushi Okubo (Soul Eater)
Will I continue the series? Yes
Thanks to Kodansha Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
We've all heard the story before. Those without will always fear magic in a city where magic is possible. In this case, the city has opted toSummary:
We've all heard the story before. Those without will always fear magic in a city where magic is possible. In this case, the city has opted to ban magic and hunt all who dare be born with those magical properties. This was the world Wynd was born into. Thankfully, there is also kindness in the world, as evidenced by the woman who found and raised him.
Things are coming to a head. As the vampires, the royal guard, and more dangers begin to close in on Wynd and his friends. Thankfully, a few allies are willing to stand between them and the danger – but will they get there in time?
Review:
Somehow, Wynd keeps finding new ways to up the ante. The stakes have never been higher – and yet I feel like there's still so much more to come. Every volume has added to the complexity of this tale, tugging at heartstrings and hinting at more as we go along.
Wynd Book Three is multifaceted, making it a rich and exciting read. There was a lot of character development in this volume. Some of it was expected, while other characters surprised me (which was nice!). I also feel like we're setting up for multiple confrontations, and I'm not entirely sure how they will play out.
I should probably mention that Wynd Book Three ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, to put it lightly. The wait for volume four is going to be SO painful, but I do not doubt that it will be worth it.
My biggest regret about reading Wynd Book Three right now? There's no volume four for me to dive into. I'm officially caught up, and that means I actually have to wait (gasp!) for the next volume in this amazing series.
Highlights: YA Graphic Novel Fantasy Epic Magical Bans LGBT+
The world is at war. As one might expect, this has forced humanity to create new ways to battle. For example, some people were specifically cSummary:
The world is at war. As one might expect, this has forced humanity to create new ways to battle. For example, some people were specifically crafted to become weapons on the battlefield. That term is more literal than you might expect.
Rivia is a weapon in human form. When needed, she can turn into a weapon that only Kuifa can wield. The two are fiercely bonded by necessity as much as anything else. And together, they must face astonishing odds.
Review:
Sayabito: Swords of Destiny Vol. 1 is the first in a new fantasy series, and I'll confess that it was totally that bright and happy cover that originally caught my attention. Still, it seemed like it was worth the read!
So, I imagine most readers have seen this sort of concept before. There have been several series where people have turned to weapons (my favorite being Soul Eater). That's good and bad. Good, because the subject matter can feel more comfortable, letting us focus more on the characters and story. Bad, because it has a lot to live up to.
Ultimately, I found Sayabito: Swords of Destiny Vol. 1 to be okay. Not bad, not great. I'm hoping it'll improve in future volumes – though I can't promise I'll be checking them out.
Highlights: Manga Magical War Human-Turned-Weapons
Will I continue the series? No
Thanks to Kodansha Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Melphiera Marchalrayd has a very particular sense of taste. By that, we mean she enjoys monster meat. Most people would be terrified of the iSummary:
Melphiera Marchalrayd has a very particular sense of taste. By that, we mean she enjoys monster meat. Most people would be terrified of the idea of eating monsters, but Melphiera understands that there is a way to make monster meat safe for consumption.
Unfortunately, it's rather difficult to find a husband when you have a reputation for eating monsters. Enter the "Blood-Mad Duke" of Galbraith. He's known to be harsh and aloof, but he may be about to meet his match.
Review:
What a unique concept! Pass the Monster Meat, Milady! Vol. 1 is a quirky and sometimes hilarious start to the series. I can't wait to get to know the characters more, as there is so much potential in this romantic comedy.
Pass the Monster Meat, Milady! Vol. 1 introduces us to a world where monsters exist, and naturally, they cause quite a ruckus. For the most part, people seem content to avoid the monsters whenever possible. Except those that are trained to hunt them, of course.
I enjoy the unique nature of Melphiera's taste. Sometimes, the cooking descriptions go too far for my liking (not a graphic thing, more like my brain just shut off at all the details, you know?). Overall, I'd say this is a fun series worth checking out.
Highlights: Fantasy Manga Monsters Romantic Comedy Medieval Monster Hunting
Will I continue the series? Probably!
Thanks to Kodansha Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
From a young age, Leo Cornelia has known that she was destined to be a knight. Maybe destiny is a strong word – as the choice was made for heSummary:
From a young age, Leo Cornelia has known that she was destined to be a knight. Maybe destiny is a strong word – as the choice was made for her. Yet, she's fully committed to her role within the kingdom. She's accepted that being a knight means that she will never be a lady. As such, many of the aspirations that go along with ladyship went out the window.
So imagine her surprise when a suitor shows up. Foolie Dent isn't your typical suitor. For one thing, he fully acknowledges that he has zero chance of winning Leo's heart. For another, he loves how strong and capable she is.
Review:
How to Treat a Lady Knight Right Vol. 1 is the first in a new (to me) series about a lady knight and her scarred nature. I mean that in many ways, as she carries more than physical scars. It's a fine balance of humor and romance, with just a touch of fan service on the side.
Overall, I think this series has a lot of potential. It's funny and has great characters. I feel like we need a chance to get to know Foolie Dent a bit more (meeting him before his romantic confession would have been nice), but I'm sure that will happen in future volumes.
While I love that Leo is the strongest knight, her armor bothered me a lot. It's the main reason why I couldn't rationalize rating this one higher. What knight would walk about with their abdomen exposed like that? It's a small thing to nitpick, but it bothered me.
Highlights: Comedy/Romance Fantasy Manga Stubborn Characters
Will I continue the series? Eh, maybe?
Thanks to Kodansha Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Mackenzie Carter would do just about anything to get her grandmother off her back. To be fair – her grandma wants3 1/2 stars rounded up.
Book Summary:
Mackenzie Carter would do just about anything to get her grandmother off her back. To be fair – her grandma wants her to be happy, but she keeps equating happiness with a relationship. But Mackenzie can't take any more of these awful setups.
So yeah, she jumped at the chance to get out of that situation. So what if she has to pretend to be the fake mate of her grouchy co-worker? They can make this work, can't they? All they have to do is go on a few fake dates and tell a bunch of lies to her family and the rest of her co-workers.
My Review:
I'll be the first to admit that The Fake Mate isn't the type of book I usually snatch up with my book subs. That said, I couldn't resist! I love a good werewolf story, and the idea of a werewolf rom-com-esque novel was just too much to say no to.
The Fake Mate is split into two perspectives: Mackenzie's and Noah's (Dr. Noah Taylor to us plebs). It's a grumpy/sunshine romance with a few paranormal twists. Both have a good reason for pretending to be in this relationship, and obviously, both will fall head over heels for each other, with a few bumps along the way.
By the way, those paranormal twists? They include actual werewolf mating habits, alpha and omega traits, and a lot of spice. Yeah, don't read this book if you're not looking for a spicy time! The romantic plot progressed very quickly, but I would have liked more time for them to be in the "getting to know you phase." Then again, with werewolf hormones in the mix, I can hardly blame them. Can I?
The Fake Mate is a funny and cute novel with a lot of spice. The paranormal elements made it a lot more fun for me. I just wish that it had been a bit funnier? I know that sounds odd, but come on! That title screams comedy.
Once upon a time, Akbar Manzil was a grand estate. It was glorious; it was loved. Then tragedy struck, changing the way everyone viewed Book Summary:
Once upon a time, Akbar Manzil was a grand estate. It was glorious; it was loved. Then tragedy struck, changing the way everyone viewed the house. Now, it’s home to a misfit group of boarders.
Sana is the newest boarder to enter the home but is willing to look where others have not. This will give her the unique opportunity to learn the secrets of the house - and all the darkness hidden within.
My Review:
Oh wow. I don’t think I’ve ever read a thriller that was so poignant and heartbreaking. Okay, I’ve read plenty of heartbreaking thrillers…but none quite like The Djinn Waits a Hundred Years.
This novel carefully weaves in a paranormal element (the family djinn) to drive home the sense of time and loss. It was beautifully done. Even those who don’t like a lot of paranormal in their thrillers will probably enjoy that twist.
The writing of The Djinn Waits a Hundred Years made this book come alive. I felt it cut to my core, as this book is all about love and loss. I’m honestly not even sure what else to say, as it feels like this book can easily speak for itself.
Highlights: Historical Magical Realism Lilting Ghost Tale
Mikami's life hasn't gone as planned – or hoped. Unfortunately, his life was a fair bit shorter than expected. The one bit of good news is thSummary:
Mikami's life hasn't gone as planned – or hoped. Unfortunately, his life was a fair bit shorter than expected. The one bit of good news is that he woke up in a new world. The strange news? He's now a slime.
Rimuru's life has changed so much since first waking up in this new world – and it's about to change a whole lot more. New allies, potential threats, and more are just around the corner. Will Rimuru and his growing group survive it all?
Review:
Ah, you can see that the gears are turning, and another major plot will soon kick off. In the meantime, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Vol. 7 helps to set things in motion further. There are so many characters in the mix now it can take a moment to get them all straight.
That said, I'm really enjoying this series. More than I thought I would back when I first started. It really grows on you! So, if you've been on the fence this whole time, I strongly urge you to give That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime a shot.
It was nice seeing some familiar faces pop back up. Likewise, I'm curious to see where this new plot will lead. Will we be seeing more of the humans? And if so, will it be a good thing, or will humans do what humans do best? (cause chaos). I guess I'll have to keep reading to find out.
I still love the idea of Rimuru introducing sweets (honey) to the kingdom. It's cute and oddly delightful.
Highlights: Isekai Reincarnation Comical Manga Fantasy Setting
We all know about the bullies in Stranger Things. They made Will's life a nightmare. Well, that is, they did. Then Eleven stepped in and did Summary:
We all know about the bullies in Stranger Things. They made Will's life a nightmare. Well, that is, they did. Then Eleven stepped in and did a few things to make them more hesitant about their actions. Sort of.
As it turns out, Troy has been struggling a lot with what happened to him, and he's not the type of guy to just let things go. He was raised to finish what he started. He just doesn't quite know how to deal with this situation.
Review:
Most of the time, I really enjoy tie-in graphic novels and the like. That said, I feel like I could have skipped Stranger Things: The Bully and not felt like I was missing out. It is a bit of a "take it or leave it" sort of story; forgive me for saying.
As the title indicates, this story is all about the bullies in the Stranger Things series. Or rather, it really focuses on one of the two (the lead bully), Troy. It was nice to learn a bit about Troy's backstory and see his thought processes here and there.
That said, Troy's story didn't actually add anything to the world. Most of us could have guessed about Troy's backstory (at least a bit), and the ending didn't feel satisfying in any real way. Though we are left hoping that Troy will learn how to change, so that's something?
Highlights: Netflix Series Tie-In Different Perspective
We've all heard the story before. Those without will always fear magic in a city where magic is possible. In this case, the city has opted toSummary:
We've all heard the story before. Those without will always fear magic in a city where magic is possible. In this case, the city has opted to ban magic and hunt all who dare be born with those magical properties. This was the world Wynd was born into. Thankfully, there is also kindness in the world, as evidenced by the woman who found and raised him.
Wynd and his friends are on the run, thanks to a desperate hope and an even more desperate mission. However, there are many threats along the way. It seems like not everyone is so keen on their goals, and both sides have reasons to want their journey to come to an end.
Review:
I know I'm a bit late to the scene, but I am really enjoying binging Wynd's story. Wynd Book Two: The Secret of the Wings is a thrilling and sometimes terrifying read, proving how compelling the characters have become quickly.
There's a lot I could say about this book. The worldbuilding (phenomenal), the character development (surprisingly deep), the setup (anxiety-inducing)...it all works to create this story that feels larger than life. Probably because it is.
Wynd's situation sometimes looks bleak, yet the world continues to grow and evolve around him. Seeing who falls on which side of the tale is fascinating, though I'm still completely in the dark about how it will all unfold.
One thing I've come to expect from this series is the artwork. Wynd Book Two is fantastically illustrated. In particular, I fell in love (again) with the colors and overall character designs. I especially love the way feathers/wings are portrayed in this world.
Highlights: YA Graphic Novel Fantasy Epic Magical Bans LGBT+
Mikami's life hasn't gone as planned – or hoped. Unfortunately, his life was a fair bit shorter than expected. The one bit of good news is thSummary:
Mikami's life hasn't gone as planned – or hoped. Unfortunately, his life was a fair bit shorter than expected. The one bit of good news is that he woke up in a new world. The strange news? He's now a slime.
Rimuru's life has changed so much since first waking up in this new world – and it's about to change a whole lot more. New allies, potential threats, and more are just around the corner. Will Rimuru and his growing group survive it all?
Review:
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Vol. 6 wastes no time throwing readers back into the deep end. To be fair, a lot is going on, so there isn't much time for hand-holding. We have enemies and allies galore, not to mention a few more twists in progress.
I knew that things weren't done with the Drawf King Gazel – and while he seemed honorable (if stuck in a bind, thanks to the laws of his kingdom), I wasn't sure what else to make of him. Still, it was nice to see his plot come back around again.
Speaking of, there are a few new characters for us to know! More than a few, in truth. It'll take some time for them all to feel fleshed out in my mind, but I'm looking forward to learning more about them, even if they bring complications.
I remember reading a spin-off volume of this series a year or two ago, and this volume helped settle all of that into place in my mind. I finally met one of the major characters for that plot (I probably shouldn't have read things out of order, whoops), so that was an added bonus for me.
Highlights: Isekai Reincarnation Comical Manga Fantasy Setting
Anne Bishop has written dozens of stories to captivate her fans, and this anthology is no different. The Lady in Glass and Other StoriesBook Summary:
Anne Bishop has written dozens of stories to captivate her fans, and this anthology is no different. The Lady in Glass and Other Stories collects several of her stories into one collection. Best of all, some of the shorts come from some of her most famous series (looking at you, The Others!).
Inside this novel, you’ll find The Lady and the Glass, Bear Trap, Not A Princess, The Weapo, Hotting Fuggam and the Dragon, Tunnel, Match Girl, Rapunzel, The Wild Heart, The Fairest One of All, Black Jewels, The Landscape of Emphermer, The Voice, The World of the Others, The Dark Ship, New Place, The Day Will Come, Truth and Story, Stands A God Within the Shadows, She Moved Through The Fair, and A Strand in the Web. Additionally, there are two new shorts, Friends and Corpses and Home for the Howliday.
My Review:
Whew. Naturally, there’s a lot to unpack in The Lady in Glass and Other Stories. We have a dozen stories (easily) covering several different series/worlds. Honestly, it was a delight to dive back into some of these worlds. It reminds me that a.) I missed them, and b.) there’s at least one series I’m behind on, and I need to fix that.
It probably goes without saying, but my favorite shorts in this collection were all of the ones related to The Others. That’s my current series obsession, so anything related to them obviously has me squealing in delight. (Plus, more Meg! I mean, come on).
The Black Jewel shorts were nostalgic - and a strong reminder that I never finished that series (I think I stopped somewhere around book four or five?). I really do need to remedy that as soon as possible.
My favorites in this collection include Home for the Howlidays, The Lady and the Glass, Not a Princess, The Dark Ship (more, please), and New Places.
Highlights: Anthology Fantasy Collection The Others Shorts Black Jewels
All Dr. Henry Jekyll wanted to do was make a refuge for fellow scientists. He wanted to erase the very notion of adding "mad" in front of theSummary:
All Dr. Henry Jekyll wanted to do was make a refuge for fellow scientists. He wanted to erase the very notion of adding "mad" in front of their titles. Unfortunately, his counterpart is making this goal harder, by the way.
The truth is, it's hard to bring about lasting change when you're terrified of your own shadow. Or secrets. Perhaps that is why everything seems to be falling apart. And Hyde doesn't understand why Jekyll finds it all so upsetting. Who will win this battle for mind and body?
Review:
Yes! I fell in love with The Glass Scientists thanks to volume one, so I am thrilled to have gotten my greedy little hands on The Glass Scientists Vol. 2. It is everything I could have hoped for – and quite possibly more.
Where the first volume introduced us to a vibrant world full of brilliant characters and surprising twists, The Glass Scientists Vol. 2 dives deeper into the darker side. That's not to say that the last volume didn't have risk; it just feels elevated here.
After all, everything comes to a head in the end, doesn't it? (Here's hoping this is far from the head, despite my statement). The battle between Jekyll and Hyde feels so intense, it's by far the most personal and human interpretation I've seen to date.
Likewise, they are far from the only plot in this volume. Many of our characters are either in turmoil or dealing with some secret or another. In other words, the world is expanding, and our characters are along for the ride.
I personally really enjoyed some of the revelations made in this book, and I'm already counting down the days to volume three. I may have to cave in and dive into the web series because I'm not sure I can handle the wait.
Highlights: Clever and Creative Historical Fiction – with a Twist Steampunk Vibes Vibrant Characters Fantastic Artwork
Thanks to G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Did you grow up on fairy tales and unicorn stories? Well, this anthology isn't a collection of those tales. This anthology will show theBook Summary:
Did you grow up on fairy tales and unicorn stories? Well, this anthology isn't a collection of those tales. This anthology will show the world the darker side of unicorns. Some would even argue that it is the more accurate portrayal of their history.
Included in this anthology, you'll find The Magical Properties of Unicorn Ivory, The Brew, Falling of the Unicorn, A Hunters Ode to Bait, Ghost Town, A Thousand Flowers, The Maltese Unicorn, Stampede of Light, The Highest Justice, The Lion and the Unicorn, Survivor, Homeward Bound, Unicorn Triangle, My Son Heydari and the Karkadarnn, The Transfigured Hart, and Unicorn Series.
My Review:
Oh. Well, this wasn't quite the anthology I was hoping for. Don't get me wrong! I wasn't expecting The Unicorn Anthology to be all bright and bubbly (though I don't mind happier unicorn tales, to be clear). I really like darker, more fae-esque takes on unicorns.
That said...I only loved a few of the shorts in here. I was initially drawn to this anthology because of a.) unicorns and b.) a few authors (Caitlin R. Kiernan, Carrie Vaughn, etc.), but that wasn't enough to keep me invested.
My biggest problem is that I didn't connect to a lot of the stories. Or I didn't enjoy the implications they made (looking at you, the story that implies lesbian sex doesn't count as losing your virginity).
Here's the good: Survivor by David Smed, The Highest Justice by Garth Nix, and The Transfigured Hart by Jane Yolen (I knew she wouldn't let me down!).
Side note: This anthology is a recent(ish) publication of a bunch of older short stories. Most of them had previously been published somewhere else, so you don't need to read this anthology to access them all. This nicely compiles a few thematically appropriate shorts into one anthology.
Highlights: Anthology of Short Stories Unicorn-centric shorts Urban Fantasy
Trigger Warnings: Suicide Rape/Drugging
Thanks to Tachyon Publications and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Winnie Wednesday has picked up many names over the years. For the longest time, she was shunned – an outcast to her society. Now she's tBook Summary:
Winnie Wednesday has picked up many names over the years. For the longest time, she was shunned – an outcast to her society. Now she's the Girl Who Jumped. The Girl Who Got Bitten. What will be her next title?
The rapid changes in her life are enough to make Winnie dizzy, yet her journey is far from over. She must find the truth behind her father's supposed framing, track down a dangerous monster, and learn a few more surprising truths along the way.
My Review:
Oh Winnie, don't ever change. Winnie is one of those characters you want to protect, even knowing full well that she can take care of herself (usually). She's a trained fighter, sure, but she can sometimes be pretty oblivious.
It makes her situation all the more dangerous – and compelling to read. Admittedly, I think most readers figured out at least one (if not two or three) of the big reveals before Winnie arrived. That said, I feel it's in keeping with her character. Last to know and all that, right?
The Hunting Moon is a dark and compelling read, fitting perfectly with the monster hunter vibe. But it's also a light young adult fantasy, so there's always something to lighten the mood (usually Winnie's antics).
I don't think I loved The Hunting Moon quite as much as the first novel in this series (The Luminaries), though I have no doubt I'll dive into the sequel (The Whispering Night) when I get the chance.
Highlights: YA Fantasy Magical Society Urban Fantasy Monster Hunters
Veris is the only person known to walk into the northern forest and survive. Naturally, she's ordered to repeat the process when the cruel ovSummary:
Veris is the only person known to walk into the northern forest and survive. Naturally, she's ordered to repeat the process when the cruel overlord, the Tyrant, realizes his children have gone missing into those very woods.
Unfortunately, Veris understands those woods – and the poor odds those children face. Yet she has no choice in the matter. She must face her nightmares once again or see her village burn.
Review:
The Butcher of the Forest is an ethereal and haunting story. Veris' tale has a way of getting under your skin. This is true, even before you know the truth of her history. Likewise, the woods are dark and fascinating – in equal measure.
To be clear, The Butcher of the Forest leans into the gothic fairy tale world. The creatures in the woods may very well be fae, but they're not the type you want to meet (nor would you likely survive the encounter). Personally, I love these darker takes, so I was happy to see it here.
The subtle realization and character development elevated The Butcher of the Forest's point. While I wish there was more of a conclusion on the Tyrant side of the story, I can't complain about how the rest of this story wrapped up.
I would love nothing more than another half dozen stories set in this world. But I'd settle for one more! Is anyone else curious about whether or not another venture happened and how it went?
Highlights: Fantasy Horror Fae & Creatures of the Forest Complex Characters
Trigger Warnings: War-torn village Missing children
Thanks to Tor.com and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Fox D'Mora is a medium. Or rather, he works hard to make people believe he is one. Unfortunately, this isn't what he is most famous for.Book Summary:
Fox D'Mora is a medium. Or rather, he works hard to make people believe he is one. Unfortunately, this isn't what he is most famous for. You see, Fox is the godson of Death himself. That garners a certain level of attention, whether you want it or not.
Viola Marek is a vampire. But she wants to be more. More specifically, she wants to be a successful real estate agent. However, it can be challenging to sell a house when the ghost residing in it refuses to leave. Enter Fox D'Mora.
My Review:
I'll admit that I was more than a little bit curious about how Masters of Death would go, given all the talk about Olivie Blake's last story. Okay, I may have even been slightly hesitant, having not loved the second novel in the Atlas Six series.
That said, I found Masters of Death a delight and a half to read. It was fun, quirky, and incredibly unique. It played around with multiple mythologies and deities, creating a world where they all happily (grumpily?) compete in a dangerous gambling game.
The various paranormal characters in Masters of Death made it worthwhile. Viola is one of many characters (though I did enjoy learning about the lore from her vampiric twist). It fueled the chaotic fire, and I loved every minute of it.
Inez Olivera has had what some may call a sheltered – but unique – life. She was left with her aunt and cousins so that her parents coulBook Summary:
Inez Olivera has had what some may call a sheltered – but unique – life. She was left with her aunt and cousins so that her parents could explore the wonders of Egyptian history and more. Unfortunately, Inez has always regretted being left behind.
That regret grew on the day she learned of her parents' disappearance. Now Inez has a choice to make: accept the truth as it's been told to her, or go hunting for it herself. Being a stubborn young girl, Inez is going to choose the latter.
My Review:
Whew. This book has left me conflicted. I'll start my review by saying this: I don't think I would have picked up What the River Knows on my own. I probably would have given it a pass if it had not been in one of my OwlCrate boxes. So, my experience may have been biased from the start.
What the River Knows had potential. In particular, I really loved the potential of the magical system. We have artifacts that can carry traces of magic (which can transfer slightly to those who touch them) and even memories. Unfortunately, the rules and boundaries of this magical system are ill-defined at best. Realistically, their existence is simply to enable Inez to find something otherwise impossible. I found this lackluster show to be disappointing.
On that note – don't go into What the River Knows expecting a retelling of The Mummy. There are two things that The Mummy and What the River Knows have in common: romance and Egypt. That's it. Yes, there's a tomb or two, but those elements feel like shallow comparisons.
There were times when I found myself beginning to enjoy this story! Unfortunately, those times were often balanced out by repetition or other odd choices. For example, there are two major reveals at the end. They set up a cliffhanger that is supposed to make readers desperate for the sequel, but it killed any investment I had.
Overall, I would say What the River Knows wasn't the best read, but it had SO MUCH potential. I wish we could have learned more about the world, the characters, and the magical system.
Highlights: Romantic Fantasy Historical Fantasy Magical Items/Artifacts Egyptian History/Lore
Liz (Quirky Cat)
>
Books:
fantasy
(933)
Loading...
