en-US Wed, 02 Apr 2025 23:03:40 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg 213263148 London, 1837.
Boston, 2019.

Three young women, their bodies planted in the same soil, their stories tangling like roots.

One grows high, and one grows deep, and one grows wild.

And all of them grow teeth.]]> 544 Victoria E. Schwab 1250320526 Death 0 to-read 4.55 2025
author: Victoria E. Schwab
name: Death
average rating: 4.55
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/04/02
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]]> 223930603 What if...

What if Charlotte didn't decide to come out in Those Who Wait? What if she and Sutton didn't get back together? How would that one decision alter the course of their lives, forever?

Charlotte Thompson appears to have it all � by forty, her political plans are panning out exactly as she’d always hoped. Now a senator, she quietly came out a couple of years ago, and she’s on-track to fulfilling everything she’d ever dreamed of. Perhaps she is a little lonely sometimes, but as the saying it’s lonely at the top.

Sutton Spencer has finally found her footing after her divorce. She’s a tenured literature professor, she loves her daughter more than anything, and she’s accepted the harsh truth of the maybe she simply isn’t meant to find lasting romantic love.

They’ve both put their ill-fated affair from over a decade ago behind them, until a surprise reunion results in their paths intertwining once more.

Maybe some things are meant to be in every universe...

In celebration of the fifth-year publication anniversary of the bestselling novel, Those Who Wait, Midnight Rain provides the opportunity to fall in love with Sutton and Charlotte all over again in a parallel universe. Explore how the decisions you make can change your future, how they impact those around you, and how they can have consequences you never see coming. ]]> 504 Haley Cass Death 0 4.75
author: Haley Cass
name: Death
average rating: 4.75
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2025/03/30
date added: 2025/03/30
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]]> 220595430 For fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid and Harper Bliss, a thrilling tale of two women who find each other irresistible but struggle for a second chance for love, redemption, and sanctuary when the world is against them.

Jo, a driven environmental attorney based in Washington, DC, and Lauren, a spirited young woman from Britain on a journey of self-discovery, find themselves in a serendipitous encounter at a lively London pub in 1981. Their brief yet profound connection generates a whirlwind of emotions, but the vast ocean, Jo's career aspirations, and immigration hurdles thwart their burgeoning romance.

Fast forward twenty-two years, and both Jo and Lauren are unhappy in their current relationships. Fate intervenes when Lauren and her partner travel from Europe to visit Jo in her San Francisco home. The reunion is electric, rekindling a storm of emotions that neither can suppress, despite their efforts to honor their existing commitments.

Amid the majestic backdrops of Yosemite National Park and the Pacific Northwest, old passions can’t be denied, leading to dramatic confrontations and painful revelations. Jo and Lauren finally realize they must admit the they are irresistibly drawn to each other. But there is no country in which they can legally live together.

A Place for Us is a poignant narrative of profound emotional depth. Will this second chance lead to happiness, or will the same forces that once drove them apart prevail again?]]> 296 Patricia Grayhall 1647429129 Death 0 to-read 0.0
author: Patricia Grayhall
name: Death
average rating: 0.0
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date added: 2025/03/09
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]]> 213570812 "I'm in your blood, and you are in mine�"

The Netherlands, 1887. Lucy's twin sister Sarah is unwell. She refuses to eat, mumbles nonsensically, and is increasingly obsessed with a centuries-old corpse recently discovered on her husband's grand estate. The doctor has diagnosed her with temporary insanity caused by a fever of the brain. To protect her twin from a terrible fate in a lunatic asylum, Lucy must unravel the mystery surrounding her sister's condition, but it's clear her twin is hiding something. Then again, Lucy is harboring secrets of her own, too.

Then, the worst happens. Sarah's behavior takes a turn for the strange. She becomes angryâ€� and hungry.Ìý

Lucy soon comes to suspect that something is trying to possess her beloved sister. Or is it madness? As Sarah changes before her very eyes, Lucy must reckon with the dark, monstrous truth, or risk losing her forever.]]> 368 Johanna van Veen 1728281571 Death 0 to-read 4.02 2025
author: Johanna van Veen
name: Death
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/09
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]]> 214641607 *WINNER OF THE INAUGURAL PFD QUEER FICTION PRIZE*
*SHORTLISTED FOR THE WOMEN'S PRIZE DISCOVERIES AWARD*

An arresting, unmissable debut novel shortlisted for the Women's Prize Discoveries award - an exploration of family, grief, queer identity, and the legacy of the Catholic Church in Ireland.

Can you imagine it? I'd say to them. Can you imagine me there in the front row in Saint Peter's Square? The lesbian sister of a literal saint.

Brought up in a devout household in Ireland, Jay is now living in London with her girlfriend, determined to live day to day and not think too much about either the future or the past. But when she learns that her beloved older brother, who died in a terrible accident, may be made into a Catholic saint, she realises she must at last confront her family, her childhood and herself . . .

Inspired by the author's own devout upbringing, Ordinary Saints is a brilliant debut novel from a fresh, exciting new voice which asks - who gets to decide how we are remembered - and who we will become?

Praise for Ordinary Saints:

'The best debut novel I've read in a long time. Niamh Ní Mhaoileoin is a writer of immense delicacy, perception and heart, drilling deep into questions of faith, family and love. A beautiful novel and a huge talent'
Jessica Moor

'Ní Mhaoileoin's writing has a real magic to it that hits you right from the first sentence'
Okechukwu Nzelu

'I both learnt - and felt - a lot reading Ordinary Saints. An intriguing, compelling and deeply original debut'
Roxy Dunn, author of As Young As This]]> 368 Niamh Ni Mhaoileoin 1786584263 Death 0 to-read 4.54
author: Niamh Ni Mhaoileoin
name: Death
average rating: 4.54
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/08
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]]> 222654041
Her quest for resurrection leads her to Hiraya, a reclusive immortal monster hunter with secrets deeper than the shadows of her home, Silakbo Manor. Hiraya, though hesitant at first, agrees to train Elise in the secrets of Chaos, magic that could alter the strands of time themselves. And with this promise of wielding time-altering magic, Elise dives headfirst into the world of ancient gods and monsters older than time.

But as their bond deepens, Elise and Hiraya find themselves embroiled in an eons-old conflict among the gods of love, destiny, and the future. Together, they'll unravel mysteries that span eons, shaping not only their own fates but the very fabric of existence.

An enchanting tale of loss, redemption, and the enduring power of love, My Lady Hiraya is a romance fantasy novel that follows Elise’s dogged pursuit of her lost love, and the love she finds along the way.]]> 308 Steven Sy 9815266160 Death 0 to-read 5.00
author: Steven Sy
name: Death
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/08
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]]> 221254241 A gripping, emotional, and darkly funny queer horror novel about family trauma and possession, for fans of Rachel Harrison and Catriona Ward.

Single gay mom Brigid always thought that cutting ties with her extremist Catholic family was the best thing she could have done for her daughter, Dylan—and for herself. But when Dylan starts having terrifying fits of unnatural violence, Brigid can’t shake her memories of a girl from her childhood who behaved the same way . . . until Brigid’s uncle, Father Angus, performed an exorcism.

Convinced that her daughter is suffering from demonic possession, Brigid does the thing she told herself she’d never she goes home. Father Angus is the worst person she knows, but he’s also the only person who can help her daughter.

But as Brigid starts to uncover secrets about Father Angus, that long-ago exorcism, and her family’s past, she realizes that she and Dylan have never been in more danger.

This Is My Body is a piercing journey into religious trauma and childhood shame, building towards a heart-pounding twisty climax that will spin your head all the way around.]]> 320 Lindsay King-Miller 1683694643 Death 0 to-read 4.21 2025
author: Lindsay King-Miller
name: Death
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/08
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]]> 223143016 � Yolanda Sfetsos, author of Only Darkness

"An alluring tale about the freedom to chase your fate and own your truth. If this story doesn’t inspire you to live life on your own terms, I don’t know what will."
� Chris Campeau, author of Resisters

Everybody knows the Big Bad Wolf didn’t want to eat Carmine. Except her.

Carmine, a seasoned huntress, has been protected from wolves by a powerful spell tattooed on her back for years. But one day, the magic fails, and she narrowly escapes a violent encounter with a furious she-wolf that was determined to kill her.

As she recovers from her injuries, she experiences eerie dreams of a singing wolf. Though the dreams could be harmless, the singing wolf looks exactly like the she-wolf that almost took her life. Scarier, the dreams remind Carmine of those she had when she was younger, before a talking wolf tricked and almost devoured her in the waking world.

Soon Carmine realizes the spell her grandmother put on her back isn't what it seems to be, and her family knows more about herself than she does.

A sapphic and dark retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, Daughters of the Blue Moon is a tale about retaking ownership of your own body and destiny.

A novella for anyone who loves horror, folk tales, and fantasy elements.]]> 88 Millie Abecassis Death 0 to-read 4.06
author: Millie Abecassis
name: Death
average rating: 4.06
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/08
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]]> 222376849 A pair of Gothic novelists trade rivalry for love in this swoony, steamy, sapphic Regency by USA Today bestselling author Alexandra Vasti.

Celebrated authoress Lady Georgiana Cleeve has achieved fame and fortune. Unfortunately, she’s also acquired an the enigmatic Lady Darling, whose spine-tingling plots appear to be pulled straight from Georgiana’s own manuscripts. What’s a stubborn, steely writer to do? Unmask her rival, of course.

But unmasking doesn’t go according to plan—because Lady Darling is actually Cat Lacey, the butler’s daughter and object of Georgiana’s very secret, very embarrassing teenage infatuation.

Cat Lacey has spent a decade clawing her family out of poverty. The last thing she needs is to be distracted by the stunning(ly pretentious) Lady Georgiana Cleeve. But Cat can’t seem to escape her infuriatingly beautiful rival—including at the eerie manor where they both plan to set their next books. The plot unexpectedly thickens, however, when the novelists find themselves trapped in the manor together. In between ghostly moans and spectral staff, Cat and Georgiana come face-to-face with real the scorching passion that’s been haunting their rivalry all along.]]> 352 Alexandra Vasti 1250910986 Death 0 to-read 4.23 2025
author: Alexandra Vasti
name: Death
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/03/07
shelves: to-read
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]]> 199798201
A house is a precious thing...

It is 1961 and the rural Dutch province of Overijssel is quiet. Bomb craters have been filled, buildings reconstructed, and the war is truly over. Living alone in her late mother’s country home, Isabel knows her life is as it should be—led by routine and discipline. But all is upended when her brother Louis brings his graceless new girlfriend Eva, leaving her at Isabel’s doorstep as a guest, to stay for the season.

Eva is Isabel’s antithesis: she sleeps late, walks loudly through the house, and touches things she shouldn’t. In response, Isabel develops a fury-fueled obsession, and when things start disappearing around the house—a spoon, a knife, a bowl—Isabel’s suspicions begin to spiral. In the sweltering peak of summer, Isabel’s paranoia gives way to infatuation—leading to a discovery that unravels all Isabel has ever known. The war might not be well and truly over after all, and neither Eva—nor the house in which they live—are what they seem.

Mysterious, sophisticated, sensual, and infused with intrigue, atmosphere, and sex, The Safekeep is a brilliantly plotted and provocative debut novel you won’t soon forget.]]> 272 Yael van der Wouden 1668034344 Death 0 to-read 4.05 2024
author: Yael van der Wouden
name: Death
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2024
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/22
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]]> 223908226 A creeping story of sapphic obsession with Gothic undertones and a delicious mid-century feel, from the author of the Polari Prize-shortlisted Sunburn.

January 1965. The orphaned O'Leary siblings - Tom, Jack, Anna and Peggy - arrive in the village of Ballycrea, tight-lipped about their troubled past and desperate for a fresh start.

After being met with suspicion from most of the locals, the family are thrilled when they're taken under the wing of their well-respected neighbours, Bill and Betty Nevan, who offer them work, companionship and an opportunity to fit in.

But for one of the O'Learys, this new friendship sparks an intense attachment that makes the dynamic dangerous for all. It's difficult to bury secrets, but almost impossible to bury feelings...

Crackling with suspense, Heap Earth Upon It revisits the rural Ireland of Howarth's critically acclaimed debut and delves into claustrophobic relationships and tangled identities, leaving you wondering who to trust until the very last page. It combines the emotional intensity and slow-burn sapphic obsession of Julia Armfield's Our Wives Under the Sea and K. Patrick's Mrs S. with the unsettling gothic undertones of Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca and Shirley Jackson's fiction.

'A tense and claustrophobic novel with gothic atmosphere which seeps into your bones like fog... A brutal exploration of the corrosive impact of shame and secrecy. Howarth knows her sapphic yearning!' RACHEL DAWSON, author of Neon Roses

'Dark, passionate and poised. A remarkable story of the way rural Ireland haunts and is haunted. Intense and thrilling' SOULA EMMANUEL, author of Wild Geese

** READERS LOVE SUNBURN **

‘Achingly beautiful, almost lyrical� This was both sweet and heartbreaking � I couldn’t put it down� 5-star Reader Review

‘An addictive, honey-dipped queer love story� 5-star Reader Review

‘Ever since I read this, I simply CANNOT stop thinking about it� 5-star Reader Review

‘Completely heart-wrenching, devastating, all-consuming� Spectacular� 5-star Reader Review]]> 281 Chloe Michelle Howarth 0857309064 Death 0 to-read 4.88
author: Chloe Michelle Howarth
name: Death
average rating: 4.88
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/18
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]]> 221414545 The outcast daughter of a powerful family of witches returns home to New York City and is immediately embroiled in a supernatural power struggle in this wickedly funny fantasy debut from AM Kvita.



After seven long years, Joan Greenwood is finally returning home.


Unfortunately, her family totally forgot about it.

The outcast daughter of a powerful witch family, Joan’s homecoming is lukewarm at best, but soon turns disastrous when news hits that someone has created a spell that can turn an ordinary human into a powerful witch, threatening the balance of the magical world and the Greenwood’s place at the top of it.

When her best friend confesses that he has secretly, accidentally, saved this human-turned-witch from an uncertain fate, Joan is thrust headfirst into a desperate race to undo the spell before it does permanent damage to its unwilling host.

Soon, Joan finds herself drawn deeper into the heart of the city’s magic, into an uncertain alliance with a (very attractive) family rival, and far beyond the limits of everything she thought her own magic capable of.

Welcome home, Joan.]]> A.M. Kvita 0356527522 Death 0 to-read 5.00 2025
author: A.M. Kvita
name: Death
average rating: 5.00
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/18
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]]> 213656335
Hellevir’s gift to raise the dead once thrust her into the center of a court filled with backstabbing and treason, where she became duty bound to protect Princess Sullivain, the sole heir to the kingdom’s throne and target of many rivals eager for the crown. But the more Hellevir risked to keep Sullivain alive, and the more deeply she fell in love with the princess, the greater the cost became—for Hellevir’s power can only be granted by the strange figure who rules the afterlife, and there is always a price to pay.

Now Hellevir may have risked too much, and Sullivain has become obsessed with consolidating power to vanquish her foes once and for all—by whatever means necessary. Cast out to the fringes of a country on the verge of civil war, Hellevir is torn between protecting her heart or giving what little she has left to finish what she started. Yet, her connection with Sullivain runs deeper than the mortal world, and saving her friends and family might mean risking the woman she is still bound to by soul and blood.

To stop a war, Hellevir must unravel the last of Death’s riddles and decide, once and for all, who deserves to live, what a life is worth, and whether she can pay the price. This explosive finale to the Raven’s Trade duology is sure to satisfy fans of dark fantasy and queer romance.]]> 464 Marianne Gordon 0063248832 Death 0 to-read 4.22 2025
author: Marianne Gordon
name: Death
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/18
shelves: to-read
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]]> 220160409 A steamy sapphic romance with a fantastical twist about two bitter tennis rivals who realize they are reluctant soulmates—perfect for fans of Expiration Dates and Here We Go Again.

Juliette Ricci dreams of only one being the best women’s tennis player in the world. She’s worked nonstop with her strict father/coach to prepare for her big chance in the Australian Open. Unfortunately, she’ll be playing Lucky Luca Kacic, an aloof player whose unorthodox style and reigning popularity deeply irritate Juliette.

For months they’ve traded sly insults in their press conferences leading up to their showdown on the court, and their first ever match is the most anticipated of the season. But Juliette refuses to let her nerves—or Luca’s annoyingly perfect abs—get the best of her.

Meanwhile, Luca seemingly has everything Juliette desires but there’s one thing missing from her love. When she shakes hands with Juliette after an agonizing match and sees her rival’s name appear on her wrist, it feels like a cruel joke. Juliette is a spoiled, arrogant brat who wants absolutely nothing to do with Luca or a soulmate.

But despite their personal and professional clashes, the two grow closer after late-night massages and one too many shots of limoncello. Their chemistry is tangible, but Luca’s anxiety tells her that Juliette is just messing with her head to throw her off her game, and Juliette can’t understand why Luca is so hot and cold. With the pressure of the world scrutinizing their every move, they will have to decide what’s more important—being together or being number one.]]> 368 Katie Chandler 1668086786 Death 0 to-read 3.36 2025
author: Katie Chandler
name: Death
average rating: 3.36
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/15
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]]> 218378004 NO KING CAN RULE THEM ALL.

In a Tudor England infused with deadly magic, a very different history will unfold for the wives of Henry VIII. Perfect for fans of The Priory of the Orange Tree, Six Wild Crowns is an epic fantasy filled with legendary dragons, vicious courtly intrigue, and sapphic yearning.Ìý

As tradition has it, the king of Elben must marry six queens and magically bind each of them to one of the island's palaces or the kingdom will fall.

Clever, ambitious Boleyn is determined to be her beloved Henry's favorite queen. She relishes the games at court and the political rivalries with his other wives. Seymour is the opposite - originally sent to Boleyn's court as a reluctant spy and assassin, she ends up catching Henry's eye and is forced into a loveless marriage with the king.

But when the two queens become the unlikeliest of things - friends and allies - the balance of power begins to shift. Together, they uncover a dark and deadly truth at the heart of the island's magic. Boleyn and Seymour's only hope of survival rests on uniting all six of the rival queens - but Henry will never let that happen.]]> 458 Holly Race 0316572942 Death 0 to-read 3.58 2025
author: Holly Race
name: Death
average rating: 3.58
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/09
shelves: to-read
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]]> 217005439 A fierce, glamorous sapphic fantasy reimagining the secret societies of postcolonial Singapore, for fans of Jade City, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and the feverish intensity of RF Kuang’s Poppy War trilogy.

Singapore, 1972: Newly independent, a city of immigrants grappling for power in a fast-modernizing world. Here, gangsters are the last conduits of the gods their ancestors brought with them, and the back alleys where they fight are the last place where magic has not been assimilated and legislated away.

Loner schoolgirl Adeline Siow has never needed more company than the flame she can summon at her fingertips. But when her mother dies in a house fire with a butterfly seared onto her skin and Adeline hunts down a girl she saw in a back-alley barfight—a girl with a butterfly tattoo–she discovers she’s far from alone.

Ang Tian is a Red Butterfly: one of a gang of girls who came from nothing, sworn to a fire goddess and empowered to wreak vengeance on the men that abuse and underestimate them. Adeline’s mother led a double life as their elusive patron, Madam Butterfly. Now that she’s dead, Adeline’s bloodline is the sole thing sustaining the goddess. Between her search for her mother’s killer and the gang’s succession crisis, Adeline becomes quickly entangled with the girls� dangerous world, and even more so with the charismatic Tian.

But no home lasts long around here. Ambitious and paranoid neighbor gangs hunt at the edges of Butterfly territory, and bodies are turning up in the red light district suffused with a strange new magic. Adeline may have found her place for once, but with the streets changing by the day, it may take everything she is to keep it.]]> Wen-yi Lee Death 0 to-read 4.10 2025
author: Wen-yi Lee
name: Death
average rating: 4.10
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/06
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]]> 222075746 A Scottish sapphic Gothic horror debut for fans of Rebecca and The Hacienda.

You are afraid of the border places. You are afraid of the fork in the road.

Fleeing her mistakes in Glasgow for a marriage of convenience, Norah Mackenzie’s new home on an estate far in the north of Scotland is a chance for freedom, a fresh start. But in the dim, draughty corridors of Corrain House, something is very wrong. Despite their warm correspondence, her distant, melancholic husband does not seem to know her. She is plagued by ghost ships on the sea, spectres at the corner of her eye, by winding, grasping roots. Her only possible companion, the housekeeper Agnes Gunn, is by turns unnerving and alluring, and harbours uncanny secrets of her own.

As the foundations crumble beneath her feet, Norah must uncover the truth about Corrain House, her husband, Agnes, and herself, if she is to find the freedom she has been chasing.]]> 380 M.K. Hardy 1837862958 Death 0 to-read 4.07
author: M.K. Hardy
name: Death
average rating: 4.07
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/06
shelves: to-read
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]]> 222361600 A pair of Gothic novelists trade rivalry for love in this swoony, steamy, sapphic Regency by USA Today bestselling author Alexandra Vasti.

Celebrated authoress Lady Georgiana Cleeve has achieved fame and fortune. Unfortunately, she’s also acquired an the enigmatic Lady Darling, whose spine-tingling plots appear to be pulled straight from Georgiana’s own manuscripts. What’s a stubborn, steely writer to do? Unmask her rival, of course.

But unmasking doesn’t go according to plan—because Lady Darling is actually Cat Lacey, the butler’s daughter and object of Georgiana’s very secret, very embarrassing teenage infatuation.

Cat Lacey has spent a decade clawing her family out of poverty. The last thing she needs is to be distracted by the stunning(ly pretentious) Lady Georgiana Cleeve. But Cat can’t seem to escape her infuriatingly beautiful rival—including at the eerie manor where they both plan to set their next books. The plot unexpectedly thickens, however, when the novelists find themselves trapped in the manor together. In between ghostly moans and spectral staff, Cat and Georgiana come face-to-face with real the scorching passion that’s been haunting their rivalry all along.]]> Alexandra Vasti 1250910994 Death 0 to-read 4.35 2025
author: Alexandra Vasti
name: Death
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 220696836 In this Korean mythology inspired sapphic fantasy, a young woman with shadow magic is awakened after a thousand years to heal her nation and her own troubled memory, even as she falls for the sister of a saint she killed in her past life.

According to legend, the Soldier drowned entire kingdoms in darkness.

Yet, the Soldier was only a girl, robbed of her will and raised as a weapon for her power-hungry father. When she awakens years later, freedom takes the form of a hidden life and a new name: Shadow.

As war brews and magical dead zones devour the natural world, Shadow is captured and pulled back into court life by her immortal father’s new prodigy, Scarlet, a diabolical woman obsessed with her sister’s murder. A murder Shadow herself committed in a past life.

Shadow’s control over darkness holds the key to restoring the balance of their world, but a serpentine court hides greed, corruption, and her father’s new plot to resurrect his fading magic.

If she’s to survive and save her nation, Shadow will have to hide her past and rely on the woman who captured her—even as they unwind the legends that brought them together and face their growing attraction.]]> Yejin Suh 0008683409 Death 0 to-read 4.75 2025
author: Yejin Suh
name: Death
average rating: 4.75
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/06
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]]> 217896248 From the nationally bestselling author of The Luminous Dead and The Death of Jane Lawrence, a transfixing, intensely atmospheric fever dream of medieval horror.

Aymar Castle has been under siege for six months. Food is running low and there has been no sign of rescue. But just as the survivors consider deliberately thinning their number, the castle stores are replenished. The sick are healed. And the divine figures of the Constant Lady and her Saints have arrived, despite the barricaded gates, offering succor in return for adoration.

Soon, the entire castle is under the sway of their saviors, partaking in intoxicating feasts of terrible origin. The war hero Ser Voyne gives her allegiance to the Constant Lady. Phosyne, a disorganized, paranoid nun-turned-sorceress, races to unravel the mystery of these new visitors and exonerate her experiments as their source. And in the bowels of the castle, a serving girl, Treila, is torn between her thirst for a secret vengeance against Voyne and the desperate need to escape from the horrors that are unfolding within Aymar’s walls.

As the castle descends into bacchanalian madness—forgetting the massed army beyond its walls in favor of hedonistic ecstasy—these three women are the only ones to still see their situation for what it is. But they are not immune from the temptations of the castle’s new masters� or each other; and their shifting alliances and entangled pasts bring violence to the surface. To save the castle, and themselves, will take a reimagining of who they are, and a reorganization of the very world itself.]]> 352 Caitlin Starling 0063418819 Death 0 to-read 4.02 2025
author: Caitlin Starling
name: Death
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/06
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]]> 214152244 Alternate cover edition of ISBN 9781668076217.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo meets First Lie Wins in this electric, voice-driven debut novel about an elusive bestselling author who decides to finally confess her true identity after years of hiding from her past.

Cate Kay knows how to craft a story. As the creator of a bestselling book trilogy that struck box office gold as a film series, she’s one of the most successful authors of her generation. The thing is, Cate Kay doesn’t really exist. She’s never attended author events or granted any interviews. Her real identity had been a closely guarded secret, until now.

As a young adult, she and her best friend Amanda dreamed of escaping their difficult homes and moving to California to become movie stars. But the day before their grand adventure, a tragedy shattered their dreams and Cate has been on the run ever since, taking on different names and charting a new future. But after a shocking revelation, Cate understands that returning home is the only way she’ll be a whole person again.]]> 304 Kate Fagan Death 0 to-read 3.76 2025
author: Kate Fagan
name: Death
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/06
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]]> 217096299 A sapphic cat-and-mouse thriller pitched in the vein of Killing Eve and FIRST LIE WINS, for fans of YELLOWFACE, about a struggling actress who accidentally murders her rival, takes her place as Hollywood's newest it-girl, and leans into the role of a killer as she cleans up her mess, and the clever PI who will stop at nothing to put the star behind bars, complicated by their growing fascination with one another.

Struggling actress Dimple Kapoor probably wouldn’t call herself a murderer—she’d prefer being called an opportunist. Years ago, she simply did what had to be done to get herself out of a bad situation. Now, after accidentally killing her Hollywood rival, Irene Singh, Dimple has conveniently created an opportunity to nab her dream leading role and resuscitate her career. It’s too bad someone else at the party witnessed the crime…and recorded it.

With everything she’s ever wanted within reach, Dimple will do anything to keep it in her grasp—including killing again. Unfortunately for her, Irene’s parents have hired detectives—who bring in a former colleague, Saffi Mirai Iyer, who is known as one of the best private investigators in the business. When Saffi immediately zeroes in on Dimple, Dimple knows she has to raise the stakes. Saffi invites her into the case, suggesting she act as bait to draw out the killer—and as the two women’s cat-and-mouse game intensifies, Saffi starts to wonder if she may have finally met her match.

With their reputations at risk, both women must fight the mutual fascination drawing them closer together. Dimple needs Saffi dead and for her theories to die with her, but first she needs to find a suitable lamb to pin her crimes on. Saffi needs Dimple behind bars where she can hurt no one else, but her life is on the line, and Dimple won't be so easy to catch red-handed.]]> Isha Raya Death 0 to-read 4.50
author: Isha Raya
name: Death
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 215020997 London, 1837.
Boston, 2019.

Three young women, their bodies planted in the same soil, their stories tangling like roots.

One grows high, and one grows deep, and one grows wild.

And all of them grow teeth.]]> 560 Victoria E. Schwab 1035064642 Death 0 to-read 4.38 2025
author: Victoria E. Schwab
name: Death
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214466890 The Last of Us meets The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes in this standalone dystopian romance about survival, sacrifice, and love that risks everything.

By encouraging massive accumulations of debt from its underclass, a single corporation, Caerus, controls all aspects of society.

Inesa lives with her brother in a half-sunken town where they scrape by running a taxidermy shop. Unbeknownst to Inesa, their cruel and indolent mother has accrued an enormous debt—enough to qualify one of her children for Caerus’s livestreamed assassination spectacle: the Lamb’s Gauntlet.

Melinoë is a Caerus assassin, trained to track and kill the sacrificial Lambs. The product of neural reconditioning and physiological alteration, she is a living weapon, known for her cold brutality and deadly beauty. She has never failed to assassinate one of her marks.

When Inesa learns that her mother has offered her as a sacrifice, at first she despairs—the Gauntlet is always a bloodbath for the impoverished debtors. But she’s had years of practice surviving in the apocalyptic wastes, and with the help of her hunter brother, she might stand a chance of staying alive.

For Melinoë, this is a game she can’t afford to lose. Despite her reputation for mercilessness, she is haunted by painful flashbacks. After her last Gauntlet, where she broke down on livestream, she desperately needs redemption.

As Mel pursues Inesa across the wasteland, both girls begin to question everything: Inesa wonders if there’s more to life than survival, while Mel wonders if she’s capable of more than killing.

And both wonder if, against all odds, they might be falling in love.]]> 448 Ava Reid 0063430010 Death 0 to-read 3.92 2025
author: Ava Reid
name: Death
average rating: 3.92
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 212342605 Hungerstone is a thrillingly seductive sapphic romance for fans of S.T. Gibson’s A Dowry of Blood and Emilia Hart’s Weyward.

For what do you hunger, Lenore?

Lenore is the wife of steel magnate Henry, but ten years into their marriage, the relationship has soured and no child has arrived to fill the distance growing between them. Henry's ambitions take them out of London and to the imposing Nethershaw manor in the countryside, where Henry aims to host a hunt with society’s finest. Lenore keeps a terrible secret from the last time her husband hunted, and though they never speak of it, it haunts their marriage to this day.

The preparations for the event take a turn when a carriage accident near their remote home brings the mysterious Carmilla into Lenore's life. Carmilla who is weak and pale during the day but vibrant at night; Carmilla who stirs up a hunger deep within Lenore. Soon girls from local villages begin to fall sick before being consumed by a bloody hunger.

Torn between regaining her husband's affection and Carmilla's ever-growing presence, Lenore begins to unravel her past and in doing so, uncovers a darkness in her household that will place her at terrible risk . . .

Set against the violent wilderness of the moors and the uncontrolled appetite of the industrial revolution, Hungerstone is a compulsive feminist reworking of Carmilla, the book that inspired Dracula: a captivating story of appetite and desire.]]> 336 Kat Dunn 1638932166 Death 0 to-read 4.02 2025
author: Kat Dunn
name: Death
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 217388071 Ms. and Ms. Smith meets The Pairing in this heart-racing romance of secrets, spies, and steam.

A few rules for the international superspy:

(1) Never blow your cover.
(2) Never accept the first plan.
(3) Never fall for anyone at the agency. Especially if she’s your ex-girlfriend.

Second-generation spy Yardley Whitmer, code name “the Unicorn,� can do no wrong. With her combination of debutante-style charm and expert spycraft, she’s become an instant legend in the field. If only finally moving out of her girlfriend’s home were as easy as rappelling off the Eiffel Tower. But living a full-time cover story has slowly eroded her relationship with KC until there’s nothing left but lies.

KC “Tabasco� Nolan, hacker extraordinaire, can crack anything—except the code that would tell her the right moment to confess her secret job to Yardley. Now it’s too late, and she’s in danger of losing the best chance at love she’s ever had.

When an undercover shakedown goes wrong, Yardley and KC discover the unbelievable truth—that they are Unicorn and Tabasco, and they’ve both been working with the agency for years. To salvage the mission, they’re compelled to partner up and fly across oceans, race through winding European streets, and give in to inconvenient passion while hiding in an ambassador’s linen closet. But can they throw away their Plan A and fight through the betrayal and secrets to fall in love with each other’s true selves?]]> 352 Mae Marvel 1250894700 Death 0 to-read 3.82 2025
author: Mae Marvel
name: Death
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 220213011 A steamy sapphic romance with a fantastical twist about two bitter tennis rivals who realize they are reluctant soulmates—perfect for fans of Expiration Dates and Here We Go Again.

Juliette Ricci dreams of only one being the best women’s tennis player in the world. She’s worked nonstop with her strict father/coach to prepare for her big chance in the Australian Open. Unfortunately, she’ll be playing Lucky Luca Kacic, an aloof player whose unorthodox style and reigning popularity deeply irritate Juliette.

For months they’ve traded sly insults in their press conferences leading up to their showdown on the court, and their first ever match is the most anticipated of the season. But Juliette refuses to let her nerves—or Luca’s annoyingly perfect abs—get the best of her.

Meanwhile, Luca seemingly has everything Juliette desires but there’s one thing missing from her love. When she shakes hands with Juliette after an agonizing match and sees her rival’s name appear on her wrist, it feels like a cruel joke. Juliette is a spoiled, arrogant brat who wants absolutely nothing to do with Luca or a soulmate.

But despite their personal and professional clashes, the two grow closer after late-night massages and one too many shots of limoncello. Their chemistry is tangible, but Luca’s anxiety tells her that Juliette is just messing with her head to throw her off her game, and Juliette can’t understand why Luca is so hot and cold. With the pressure of the world scrutinizing their every move, they will have to decide what’s more important—being together or being number one.]]> Katie Chandler Death 0 to-read 3.72 2025
author: Katie Chandler
name: Death
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 219134676 From World Fantasy Award-winning author Tasha Suri comes The Isle in the Silver Sea, a heart-shattering romantasy of sapphic longing, medieval folklore and a love that spans the centuries.

In a Britain fuelled by stories, the knight and the witch are fated to fall in love and doom each other over and over, the same tale retold over hundreds of lifetimes.

Simran is a witch of the woods. Vina is a knight of the Queen's court. When the two women begin to fall for each other, how can they surrender to their desires, when to give in is to destroy each other?

As they seek a way to break the cycle, a mysterious assassin begins targeting tales like theirs. To survive, the two will need to write a story stronger than the one that fate has given to them.

But what tale is stronger than The Knight and the Witch?]]> 384 Tasha Suri 0356524418 Death 0 to-read 4.67 2025
author: Tasha Suri
name: Death
average rating: 4.67
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 62991463
Always mindful of the debt she owes, the girl finds her worth as a weapon in the hand of the Prince. Her victories make him a king, then an emperor. The bards sing her name and her enemies fear it. But the war never ends and the cost keeps rising—how many times will she repeat her own story?]]> 31 Alix E. Harrow 166250957X Death 0 4.32 2022
author: Alix E. Harrow
name: Death
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at: 2024/12/31
date added: 2024/12/31
shelves:
review:

]]> 214540663 An epic sapphic fantasy roadtrip inspired by the fall of Rome, from the Sunday Times bestselling author of Frontier and Floating Hotel

On one side of the world, Aleya Ana-Ulai is desperate for a chance. Her family have written her off as a mistake, but she's determined to prove every last one of them wrong.

On the other, Kirby of Wall's End is searching for redemption. An ancient curse tore her life apart, but to fix it, she'll have to leave everything behind.

Fate sets them both on the path to Nivela, a city once poised to conquer the world with the power of a thousand stolen gods. Now the gates are closed and the old magic slumbers. Dead � or waiting for a spark to light it anew�

A character-driven science-fantasy road trip book with sword fights and a slowburn romance, Idolfire delves into the vastness of history and the terrifying power of organized faith.]]> 480 Grace Curtis 0756419808 Death 0 to-read 3.87 2025
author: Grace Curtis
name: Death
average rating: 3.87
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/11/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214988509 From debut author Emily Yu-Xuan Qin comes a snarky urban fantasy novel inspired by Chinese and First Nation mythology and bursting with wit, compelling characters, and LGBTQIA+ representation

Readers of Seanan McGuire, Ilona Andrews, and Ben Aaronovitch will devour this gory story—and the sweet-as-Canadian-maple-syrup sapphic romance at its monstrous heart

Tam hasn’t eaten anyone in years.Ìý

She is now Mama’s soft-spoken, vegan daughter � everything dangerous about her is cut out, repressed. Medicated.

But when Tam’s estranged Aunt Tigress is found murdered and skinned, Tam inherits an undead fox in a shoebox and an ensemble of old enemies.Ìý

The demons, the ghosts, the gods running coffee shops by the river? Fine. The tentacled thing stalking Tam across the city? Absolutely not. And when Tam realizes the girl she’s falling in love with might be yet another loose end from her past? That’s just the brassy, beautiful cherry on top.

Because no matter how quietly she lives, Tam can’t hide from her voracious upbringing, nor the suffering she caused. As she navigates romance, redemption, and the end of the world, she can’t help but wonder�

Do monsters even deserve happy endings?

With worldbuilding inspired by Chinese folklore and the Siksiká Nation in Canada, LGBTQIA+ representation, and a sapphic romance, Aunt Tigress is at once familiar and breathtakingly innovative.]]> 432 Emily Yu-Xuan Qin 0756419387 Death 0 to-read 3.74 2025
author: Emily Yu-Xuan Qin
name: Death
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/11/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 59558627 The Lotus Empire brings Tasha Suri’s acclaimed Burning Kingdoms trilogy to a heart–stopping close. As an ancient magic returns to Ahiranya and threatens its very foundations, Empress Malini and priestess Priya will stop at nothing to save their kingdoms—even if it means they must destroy each other.

Malini has claimed her rightful throne as the empress of Parijatdvipa, just as the nameless gods prophesied. Now, in order to gain the support of the priesthood who remain loyal to the fallen emperor, she must consider a terrible Claim her throne and burn in order to seal her legacy—or find another willing to take her place on the pyre.

Priya has survived the deathless waters and now their magic runs in her veins. But a mysterious yaksa with flowering eyes and a mouth of thorns lies beneath the waters. The yaksa promises protection for Ahiranya. But in exchange, she needs a sacrifice. And she's chosen Priya as the one to offer it.

Two women once entwined by fate now stand against each other. But when an ancient enemy rises to threaten their world, Priya and Malini will find themselves fighting together once more � to prevent their kingdoms, and their futures, from burning to ash.


Praise for the Burning Kingdoms Trilogy

“Will undoubtedly reshape the landscape of epic fantasy for years to come.� �Booklist, starred review

“Alluring, action-packed, and gut-wrenching.� �Publishers Weekly, starred review

“More than lives up to the hype with its rich and expansive world, compelling characters, cool magic system and Suri’s excellent writing.� �BookPage, starred review]]> 528 Tasha Suri 0356515672 Death 0 4.41 2024
author: Tasha Suri
name: Death
average rating: 4.41
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at: 2024/11/15
date added: 2024/11/15
shelves:
review:

]]> 217192122 really is thrilled for her. Left to her own devices, she’s doing� fine.

Oh, except for the fact that her new roommate, Emma Bordeaux, has hated Regan since the literal day they’d met two years ago. Sure, most of their interactions end in disaster and Regan is the root cause, but they are all accidents! She’ll win Emma over though; she’s determined to make this living arrangement work come hell or high water.

Emma never planned on finding herself living with the most frustrating person she’d ever met, but for rent this low, she’s positive that she can put up with anything Regan throws her way.

What she isn’t sure she can handle is her mom returning to her life, wanting to bond with Emma. She definitely doesn’t know how to manage her mom believing that she and Regan are a couple. And she doesn’t want to deal with the fact that Regan seems far too into acting the part.

Perhaps the most daunting aspect of all is realizing that she might have been wrong about Regan all along…]]> 506 Haley Cass Death 0 4.48 2024
author: Haley Cass
name: Death
average rating: 4.48
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at: 2024/11/13
date added: 2024/11/13
shelves:
review:

]]> 60889954
After Ruriko’s hospitalization, Ruriko and Kurumi’s connection seems to be deepening. But that doesn’t make them immune to the odd argument! Can they work through the knots that come with tying the knot?]]> Shio Usui Death 0 3.67 2022
author: Shio Usui
name: Death
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at: 2022/10/10
date added: 2024/11/13
shelves:
review:

]]> 206180603
It's been five years since Charlotte Donovan was ditched at the altar by her ex-fiancée, and she’s doing more than okay. Sure, her single mother never checks in, but she has her strings ensemble, the Rosalind Quartet, and her life in New York is a dream come true. As the holidays draw near, her ensemble mate Sloane persuades Charlotte and the rest of the quartet to spend Christmas with her family in Colorado—it is much cozier and quieter than Manhattan, and it would guarantee more practice time for the quartet’s upcoming tour. But when Charlotte arrives, she discovers that Sloane’s sister Adele also brought a friend home—and that friend is none other than her ex, Brighton. All Brighton Fairbrook wanted was to have the holliest, jolliest Christmas—and try to forget that her band kicked her out. But instead, she’s stuck pretending like she and her ex are strangers—which proves to be difficult when Sloane and Adele’s mom signs them all up for a series of Christmas dating events. Charlotte and Brighton are soon entrenched in horseback riding and cookie decorating, but Charlotte still won’t talk to her. Brighton can hardly blame her after what she did. After a few days, however, things start to slip through. Memories. Music. The way they used to play together—Brighton on guitar, Charlotte on her violin—and it all feels painfully familiar. But it’s all in the past and nothing can melt the ice in their hearts...right?]]> 342 Ashley Herring Blake 0593550595 Death 0 3.60 2024
author: Ashley Herring Blake
name: Death
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at: 2024/10/12
date added: 2024/10/12
shelves:
review:

]]> 123217991
“What would you do, given another universe, a do-over?�

Since humanity discovered the existence of pocket worlds, academics have embarked on exploratory missions as agents for the Institute for the Scientific and Humanistic Study of Portal Worlds to study this new technology and harness the potential of a seemingly limitless horizon.

Archeologist Raquel and her biologist wife Marlena once dreamed the pocket worlds held the key to solving the universe’s mysteries. Now, forty years in the future, Raquel is a disgraced ex-agent, pocket worlds are controlled by corporations squeezing every penny out of all colonizable space and time, and Marlena now lives in a pocket universe Raquel wears around her neck in which time passes faster than on Earth, and no longer speaks to her.

Standing in the ruins of her dream and her calling, Raquel seizes one last chance to redeem herself, to her wife and her own failed ideals and confront what it means to save something―or someone―from time.]]> 210 Brenda Peynado 1250854326 Death 4 sapphic-speculative
This book was a fascinating exploration of grief, loss, parenthood, results of unchecked ambition, and the horrors of end stage capitalism.

The concept of how the pocket worlds work is truly engrossing and it is deftly integrated into the development of the world while keeping it in line with the very real issues we currently face and issues we are headed towards.

The book manages to keep verisimilitude while exploring how someone can deal with such a devastating loss and what choices she would make in light of it. Raquel's journey is heartbreakingly raw.

For a work this short, it manages to touch on a lot of fascinating topics and provides a complete and satisfying narrative, which a lot of novellas struggle with. The one issue I really had with the book is that it slows down a fair bit in the middle, which while is a great depiction of grief and a deeper dive into the concept, takes up a bit too much page real estate for things we already know from the set up for such a short book. This leads to the climax feeling just a bit rushed.

Overall though, Time's Agent is a great work of near future sci-fi that manages to accomplish a lot in its short length. If you enjoy near future sci-fi at all, I highly recommend picking it up.

Merged review:

Thanks to publisher and Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honestly review.

This book was a fascinating exploration of grief, loss, parenthood, results of unchecked ambition, and the horrors of end stage capitalism.

The concept of how the pocket worlds work is truly engrossing and it is deftly integrated into the development of the world while keeping it in line with the very real issues we currently face and issues we are headed towards.

The book manages to keep verisimilitude while exploring how someone can deal with such a devastating loss and what choices she would make in light of it. Raquel's journey is heartbreakingly raw.

For a work this short, it manages to touch on a lot of fascinating topics and provides a complete and satisfying narrative, which a lot of novellas struggle with. The one issue I really had with the book is that it slows down a fair bit in the middle, which while is a great depiction of grief and a deeper dive into the concept, takes up a bit too much page real estate for things we already know from the set up for such a short book. This leads to the climax feeling just a bit rushed.

Overall though, Time's Agent is a great work of near future sci-fi that manages to accomplish a lot in its short length. If you enjoy near future sci-fi at all, I highly recommend picking it up.]]> 3.73 2024
author: Brenda Peynado
name: Death
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/20
date added: 2024/09/18
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:
Thanks to publisher and Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honestly review.

This book was a fascinating exploration of grief, loss, parenthood, results of unchecked ambition, and the horrors of end stage capitalism.

The concept of how the pocket worlds work is truly engrossing and it is deftly integrated into the development of the world while keeping it in line with the very real issues we currently face and issues we are headed towards.

The book manages to keep verisimilitude while exploring how someone can deal with such a devastating loss and what choices she would make in light of it. Raquel's journey is heartbreakingly raw.

For a work this short, it manages to touch on a lot of fascinating topics and provides a complete and satisfying narrative, which a lot of novellas struggle with. The one issue I really had with the book is that it slows down a fair bit in the middle, which while is a great depiction of grief and a deeper dive into the concept, takes up a bit too much page real estate for things we already know from the set up for such a short book. This leads to the climax feeling just a bit rushed.

Overall though, Time's Agent is a great work of near future sci-fi that manages to accomplish a lot in its short length. If you enjoy near future sci-fi at all, I highly recommend picking it up.

Merged review:

Thanks to publisher and Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honestly review.

This book was a fascinating exploration of grief, loss, parenthood, results of unchecked ambition, and the horrors of end stage capitalism.

The concept of how the pocket worlds work is truly engrossing and it is deftly integrated into the development of the world while keeping it in line with the very real issues we currently face and issues we are headed towards.

The book manages to keep verisimilitude while exploring how someone can deal with such a devastating loss and what choices she would make in light of it. Raquel's journey is heartbreakingly raw.

For a work this short, it manages to touch on a lot of fascinating topics and provides a complete and satisfying narrative, which a lot of novellas struggle with. The one issue I really had with the book is that it slows down a fair bit in the middle, which while is a great depiction of grief and a deeper dive into the concept, takes up a bit too much page real estate for things we already know from the set up for such a short book. This leads to the climax feeling just a bit rushed.

Overall though, Time's Agent is a great work of near future sci-fi that manages to accomplish a lot in its short length. If you enjoy near future sci-fi at all, I highly recommend picking it up.
]]> 55948561 Django Wexler's Hard Reboot features giant mech arena battles and intergalactic diplomacy. When did academia get to be so complicated?Kas is a junior researcher on a fact-finding mission to old Earth. But when a con-artist tricks her into wagering a large sum of money belonging to her university on the outcome of a manned robot arena battle she becomes drawn into the seedy underworld of old Earth politics and state-sponsored battle-droid prizefights.Is it time to get back to the books, yet?At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.]]> 160 Django Wexler 1250790271 Death 0 to-read 3.91 2021
author: Django Wexler
name: Death
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 200992689 all to dive into a deeper love for her than ever before.�
In a world where time bends to the will of an ordinary girl, 'Jattawa' possesses the extraordinary ability to manipulate time itself. Her ambition? To become a lawyer and wield her powers for money. But fate takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with 'Four', a mysterious senior who is destined to be her soulmate, as foreseen by her sister's visions.
As their destinies entwine, Jattawa is plagued by a recurring sense of déjà vu, a feeling that she and Four have met across countless lifetimes. Yet, their connection defies the boundaries of time, raising questions about the nature of their bond.
What secrets lie behind their timeless connection? Can Jattawa's unique powers alter the course of destiny? With the power to rewrite the past and save those she loves, Jattawa embarks on a race against time and destiny itself. Dive into this captivating tale and unlock the enigma of a love that transcends even time!]]> 672 Zezeho Zezeho Death 0 4.42
author: Zezeho Zezeho
name: Death
average rating: 4.42
book published:
rating: 0
read at: 2024/09/16
date added: 2024/09/16
shelves:
review:

]]> 199797561
In the tumultuous town of Yáquimo, Santo Domingo, Jacquotte Delahaye is an unknown but up-and-coming shipwright. Her dreams are bold but her ambitions are bound by the confines of her life with her self-seeking French father. When her way of life and the delicate balance of power in the town are threatened, she is forced to flee her home and become a woman on the run along with a motley crew of refugees, including a mysterious young woman named Teresa.

Jacquotte and her band become indentured servants to the infamous Blackhand, a ruthless pirate captain who rules his ship with an iron fist. As they struggle to survive his brutality, Jacquotte finds herself unable to resist Teresa despite their differences. When Blackhand hatches a dangerous scheme to steal a Portuguese shipment of jewels, Jacquotte must rely on her wits, resourcefulness, and friends to survive. But she discovers there is a grander, darker scheme of treachery at play, and she ultimately must decide what price she is willing to pay to secure a better future for them all.

An unforgettable tale told in three parts, The Ballad of Jacquotte Delahaye is a thrilling, buccaneering escapade filled with siege and battle, and is also a tender exploration of friendship, love, and the search for freedom and home.]]> 368 Briony Cameron 1668051028 Death 3
3.5/5

This was a fun, compelling debut exploring a biracial female pirate who seizes the chance take over a ship by staging mutiny.

It explores themes of race, gender, friendship, and coming into your own in compelling ways, though perhaps with less interest in realism of its time period.

Nevertheless, it's still a entertaining read and if a highs seas adventure with some unique themes is something you're interested in, I'd recommend picking this up.


]]> 3.75 2024
author: Briony Cameron
name: Death
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/08/31
date added: 2024/08/31
shelves:
review:
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

3.5/5

This was a fun, compelling debut exploring a biracial female pirate who seizes the chance take over a ship by staging mutiny.

It explores themes of race, gender, friendship, and coming into your own in compelling ways, though perhaps with less interest in realism of its time period.

Nevertheless, it's still a entertaining read and if a highs seas adventure with some unique themes is something you're interested in, I'd recommend picking this up.



]]> 209720581 Two video game creators go head-to-head in this delightful, queer enemies-to-lovers workplace romance debut.

Cat Li cares about two things: video games and swoony romances. The former means there hasn't been much of the latter in her (real) life, but when she lands her dream job writing the love storylines for Compass Hollow—the next big thing in games—she knows it’s all been worth it. Then she meets her boss: the infamous Andi Zhang, who’s not only an arrogant hater of happily-ever-afters determined to keep Cat from doing her job but also impossibly, annoyingly hot.

As Compass Hollow’s narrative director, Andi couldn’t care less about love—in-game or out. After getting doxxed by internet trolls three years ago, Andi’s been trying to prove to the gaming world that they’re a serious gamedev. Their plan includes writing the best game possible, with zero lovey-dovey stuff. That is, until the man funding the game’s development insists Andi add romance in order to make the story “more appealing to female gamers.�

Forced to give Cat a chance, Andi begrudgingly realizes there’s more to Cat than romantic idealism and, okay, a cute smile. But admitting that would mean giving up the single-player life that has kept their heart safe for years. And when Cat uncovers a behind-the-scenes plan to destroy Andi’s career, the two will have to put their differences aside and find a way to work together before it’s game over.]]> 320 Tara Tai 1639109935 Death 0 to-read 4.00 2025
author: Tara Tai
name: Death
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 213870692 Craven’s Daughter ended five years ago, and their friendship died along with it. Fans were disappointed that the pair’s legendary chemistry went unfulfilled—and other fans were crushed that the actual spark between actressesBex and Sam didn’t pay off, either. The network never intended for two women to get romantic, in life or onscreen, despite the fans. But the bigger tragedy was the loss of their dear friend, makeup artist Jen Arnot, whose accidental death cast a pall over the series� last episodes.

Now the network has decided on a reunion special, and Bex and Sam are thrust together once more as hosts of a rewatch podcast that will feature favorite episodes. Their first guest—a megawatt star who played a murder victim early on—drops a bombshell. Among the millions of pixels of fanfic written about the show online, one truly prolific author, known in the fiction world as the show’s Big Name Fan, was an insider, almost certainly someone from the cast or crew.

As the podcast moves along—and the spark between Bex and Sam threatens to burn down the studio—the pair realize they’re faced with two actual Who is their Big Name Fan? And was Jen’s death an accident, or did someone want her dead? Sifting through clues as they question cast and crew, the duo will need to separate fact from fiction as they make their personal partnership into an unmistakable canon . . .]]> 320 Ruthie Knox 1496751337 Death 0 to-read 3.40 2025
author: Ruthie Knox
name: Death
average rating: 3.40
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/20
shelves: to-read
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]]> 210692270 Tess Sharpe Death 0 to-read 4.40 2025
author: Tess Sharpe
name: Death
average rating: 4.40
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2024/07/20
shelves: to-read
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]]> 209352163
Thus begins THE UNLIKELY PURSUIT OF MARY BENNET, a sapphic romance between recently widowed Charlotte Lucas and grown-up scientist Mary Bennet. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll wonder at the sheer sturdiness of a well-built pianoforte.

The Unlikely Pursuit of Mary Bennet by Lindz McLeod will be available Apr 29, 2025.]]> 298 Lindz McLeod 0369760816 Death 0 to-read 4.04 2025
author: Lindz McLeod
name: Death
average rating: 4.04
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/20
shelves: to-read
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]]> 211004055 A classic in the making: a mesmerizing novel about marriage and ambition, sexuality and secrecy, and the true costs of building an empire.

At the turn of the 20th century, Vivian Lesperance is determined to flee her origins in Utica, New York, and avoid repeating her parents' dull, limited life. When she meets Oscar Schmidt, a middle manager at a soap company, Vivian finds a partner she can guide to build the life she wants-not least because, more interested in men himself, Oscar will leave Vivian to tend to her own romances with women.

But Vivian's plans require capital, so the two pair up with Squire Clancey, scion of an old American fortune. Together they found Clancey & Schmidt, a preeminent manufacturer of soap, perfume, and candles. When Oscar and Squire fall in love, the trio form a new kind of partnership.

Vivian reaches the pinnacle of her power building Clancey & Schmidt into an empire of personal care products while operating behind the image of both men. But exposure threatens, and all three partners are made aware of how much they have to lose.

For readers of Hernan Diaz's Trust and Colm Tóibín's The Magician, with echoes of Gustave Flaubert and E.M. Forster, Mutual Interest is a beguiling story of queer romance, empire, and power.]]> 336 Olivia Wolfgang-Smith 1639733329 Death 0 to-read 3.67 2025
author: Olivia Wolfgang-Smith
name: Death
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/20
shelves: to-read
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]]> 205975176
One was a Prince of the grass plains who had no worries or sorrow. One was a lawful Princess who received exclusive favour of the Emperor.

A war turned the Prince of the grass plains into an orphan. Hidden away for a decade, she had plans to become a sycophantic official, manipulating the enemy kingdom into chaos, only to find herself appointed as Fuma at the Chionglin banquet.

She must find another way to make them pay.]]> 418 Qing Jun Mo Xiao 8410020386 Death 0 to-read 4.71
author: Qing Jun Mo Xiao
name: Death
average rating: 4.71
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2024/07/20
shelves: to-read
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]]> 199373441 A heartrending family saga following three generations of women connected by a fantastic tapestry through which they inherit the experiences of those that lived before them, sweeping readers from Partition-era India to modern day Brooklyn.

Ayukta is finally sitting down with her wife Nadya to respond to a question she’s long avoided: Should they have a child? The decision is complicated by a secret her family has kept for centuries, one that Ayukta will be the first to share with someone outside their bloodline: the women in her family inherit a mysterious tapestry, through which each generation can experience the memories of those who came before her.

Ayukta invites Nadya into this lineage, carrying her through its past. She relives her grandmother Amla’s life: Once a happy child in Karachi, Amla migrates to Gujarat during Partition, witnessing violence and loss that forever shape her approach to marriage and motherhood. Amla’s daughter, Arni, bears this weight in her own blood in 1974, when gender equity and urban class distinctions divide the community as a bold student movement takes hold. As Ayukta unspools these generations of women—whole decades of love, loss, heartbreak, and revival—she reveals the tapestry’s second gift: the ability for each of these women to dramatically reshape their own worlds. Like all power, both fantastic and societal, this inheritance is more treacherous than it seems.

What would it mean, to impart an impossible burden? To withhold these incredible gifts?

Sweeping, deeply felt and intergenerational, A Thousand Times Before is a debut as poetic as it is propulsive, as healing as it is heartbreaking, as it examines what it means to carry our past with us and to pass it on. Rooted in a tender love story, and spun with a tremendous amount of care, this book is a rare, remarkable feat from an incredible new literary talent.]]> 368 Asha Thanki 0593654641 Death 0 to-read 3.63 2024
author: Asha Thanki
name: Death
average rating: 3.63
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/14
shelves: to-read
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]]> 213094928 NO KING CAN RULE THEM.

Six Wild Crowns is an epic and compelling fantasy filled with dragons, courtly intrigue, sapphic yearning and brave women. This is the Tudor queens as you've never seen them before. . . Henry VIII had it coming.

As tradition has it, the king of Elben must marry six queens and magically bind each of them to one of the island's palaces or the kingdom will fall.

Clever, ambitious Boleyn is determined to be her beloved Henry's favourite queen. She relishes the games at court and the political rivalries with his other wives. Seymour is the opposite - originally sent to Boleyn's court by another queen as a reluctant spy and assassin, she ends up catching Henry's eye and is forced into a loveless marriage with the king.

But when the two queens become the unlikeliest of things - friends and allies - the balance of power begins to shift. Together, they uncover a dark and deadly truth at the heart of the island's magic. Boleyn and Seymour's only hope of survival rests on uniting all six of the rival queens - but Henry will never let that happen.
]]> 0 Holly Race 0356522652 Death 0 to-read 4.30 2025
author: Holly Race
name: Death
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/10
shelves: to-read
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]]> 215149198 A geeky overachiever determined to save the world through science and a troublemaking chosen one lashing out against her destiny meet and fall in love in a magical coffeeshop as their two very different universes begin to collide in Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe, C.B. Lee's fun, sapphic, cozy fantasy YA romance.

When Brenda’s internet goes out right before an important scholarship deadline, she stumbles right into Kat’s family’s coffeeshop. Brenda is swept away by cool, confident Kat, who actually cares about Brenda’s 19-step plan to save the world through science. Meanwhile, Kat can’t stop thinking about Brenda, who is smart, passionate, and doesn’t seem to care that Kat is the prophesized Chosen One.

The only problem? Kat and Brenda are from different universes. Like need-to-find-a-portal-to-go-on-a-second-date different universes.

As their universes collide and things spiral out of control, can a girl who is determined to save the world find love with a girl determined to outrun her destiny?]]> 400 C.B. Lee 1250778026 Death 0 to-read 4.42 2025
author: C.B. Lee
name: Death
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/10
shelves: to-read
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]]> 199373754 A nobleman must work with a dashing soldier to save his sister from a mystical bargain gone wrong, diving into a world of malicious fey, enigmatic cults, and treacherous magic in this irresistible romance from the bestselling author of Boyfriend Material.

The year is 1815, and Mr. John Caesar is determined to orchestrate a successful coming-out for his younger sister, Mary. Despite his best efforts, he is thwarted by the various interventions of a ragtag regiment of soldiers, a mysterious military cult, and a malicious fairy godmother.

When Mary is cursed by the fair folk, the dandyish Mr. Caesar is forced to work with the stolidly working-class—yet inescapably heroic—Captain James to rescue her. While Mr. Caesar is no stranger to dallying with soldiers, until now he's never expected one to stay. Or wanted one to. But even if the captain felt the same, there'd be no chance of anything lasting between them. After all, he and Mr. Caesar come from different worlds.

And lately, other worlds are the last thing either of them want to be dealing with . . .]]> 448 Alexis Hall 0593497589 Death 0 to-read 3.60 2024
author: Alexis Hall
name: Death
average rating: 3.60
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/08
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 205064664 Greco-Roman mythology and the mystery of the vanished Roanoke colony collide in this epic adventure filled with sapphic longing and female rage—a debut novel for fans of Madeline Miller, Jennifer Saint, and Natalie Haynes.Before, Scopuli. It has been centuries since Thelia made the mistake that cost her the woman she loved. As the handmaidens charged with protecting Proserpina, the goddess of spring, Thelia and her sisters are banished to the island of Scopuli, cursed to live as sirens—winged half-woman, half-bird creatures. In luring men to their death, they hope to gain favor from the gods who could free them. But then ships stop coming and Thelia fears a fate worse than the underworld. Just as time begins to run out, a voice emerges, Proserpina’s voice; and what she asks of Thelia will spark a daring and dangerous quest for freedom.Now, Roanoke. Thelia can't bear to reflect on her last moments in Scopuli, where she left behind her sisters.ÌýAfter weeks drifting at sea, Thelia’s renewed human body is close to death. Luckily, an unfamiliar island appears on the horizon—Roanoke. Posing as a princess arriving on a sailboat filled with riches, Thelia infiltrates the small English colony. It doesn’t take long for her to realize that this place is dangerous, especially for women. As she grows closer to a beautiful settler who mysteriously resembles her former love, Thelia formulates a plan to save her sisters and enact revenge on the violent men she’s come to hate. But is she willing to go back to Scopuli and face the decisions of her past? And will Proserpina forgive her for all that she’s done?Told in alternating timelines, Those Fatal Flowers is a powerful, passionate, and wildly cathartic love letter to femininity and the monstrous power within us all.]]> 384 Shannon Ives 0593725301 Death 0 to-read 3.57 2025
author: Shannon Ives
name: Death
average rating: 3.57
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/08
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 203422707 A socially awkward but determined phoenix keeper must partner with her longtime rival to save her beloved exhibit from falling into obscurity in this charming, romantic fantasy debut.

Aila is a little obsessed with phoenixes.Ìý   As head phoenix keeper at a world-renowned zoo for magical creatures, her childhood dream of conserving critically endangered firebirds seems closer than ever. There’s just one glaring her zoo’s breeding program hasn’t functioned for a decade. When a tragic phoenix-nabbing cripples the flagship program at a neighbouring zoo, Aila must prove her derelict facilities are fit to take the reins.Ìý   But saving a species takes more than stellar animal handling skills. Carnivorous water horses, tempestuous thunderhawks â€� Aila has no problem wrangling beasts. Inspiring zoo patrons? That’s another story. Finding the courage to ask for help from the hot dragon keeper at a neighbouring exhibit? Virtually impossible. And don’t get Aila started on her arch-rival from the glamorous leader of the zoo’s wildly popular griffin show, who’s convinced that Aila’s beloved phoenix would serve better as a performer than a conservation exhibit.   Aided by both friends and enemies, Aila must conquer her social anxiety if she is to restore her breeding programme. With the world watching and the threat of poachers looming, Aila’s success isn’t only a matter of keeping her the future of a species depends on her.]]> 490 S.A. MacLean 0316573108 Death 0 to-read 3.89 2024
author: S.A. MacLean
name: Death
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/08
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211428041
A queer, Caribbean, anti-colonial sci-fi novella, inspired by the Count of Monte Cristo, in which a betrayed captain seeks revenge on the interplanetary empire that subjugated her people for generations.

Virika Sameroo lives in colonized space under the Æerbot Empire, much like her ancestors before her in the British West Indies. After years of working hard to rise through the ranks of the empire’s merchant marine, she’s finally become first lieutenant on an interstellar cargo vessel.

When her captain dies under suspicious circumstances, Virika is arrested for murder and charged with treason despite her lifelong loyalty to the empire. Her conviction and subsequent imprisonment set her on a path to justice, determined to take down the evil empire that wronged her, all while the fate of her people hangs in the balance.]]> 168 Suzan Palumbo 1770417575 Death 0 to-read 3.59 2024
author: Suzan Palumbo
name: Death
average rating: 3.59
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/06/09
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 40245700 In the aftermath of war, the hunter becomes the hunted�

Bold and fearless, Nina Markova always dreamed of flying. When the Nazis attack the Soviet Union, she risks everything to join the legendary Night Witches, an all-female night bomber regiment wreaking havoc on the invading Germans. When she is stranded behind enemy lines, Nina becomes the prey of a lethal Nazi murderess known as the Huntress, and only Nina’s bravery and cunning will keep her alive.

Transformed by the horrors he witnessed from Omaha Beach to the Nuremberg Trials, British war correspondent Ian Graham has become a Nazi hunter. Yet one target eludes him: a vicious predator known as the Huntress. To find her, the fierce, disciplined investigator joins forces with the only witness to escape the Huntress alive: the brazen, cocksure Nina. But a shared secret could derail their mission unless Ian and Nina force themselves to confront it.

Growing up in post-war Boston, seventeen-year-old Jordan McBride is determined to become a photographer. When her long-widowed father unexpectedly comes homes with a new fiancée, Jordan is thrilled. But there is something disconcerting about the soft-spoken German widow. Certain that danger is lurking, Jordan begins to delve into her new stepmother’s past—only to discover that there are mysteries buried deep in her family . . . secrets that may threaten all Jordan holds dear.

In this immersive, heart-wrenching story, Kate Quinn illuminates the consequences of war on individual lives, and the price we pay to seek justice and truth.]]> 560 Kate Quinn Death 0 to-read 4.32 2019
author: Kate Quinn
name: Death
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/30
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 206334339 "Such an absolute joy to read. Highly recommended."–TJ Klune, New York Times bestselling author of The House in the Cerulean Sea

In this fresh-yet-familiar gothic tale—part historical fantasy, part puzzle-box mystery—the worlds of Dracula and Sherlock Holmes collide in a thrilling exploration of feminine power.

At the dawn of the twentieth century in Paris, Samantha Harker, daughter of Dracula’s killer, works as a researcher for the Royal Society for the Study of Abnormal Phenomena. But no one realizes how abnormal she is. Sam is a channel into the minds of a power that could help her solve the gruesome deaths plaguing turn-of-the-century Paris—or have her thrown into an asylum.

Sam finds herself assigned to a case with Dr. Helena Moriarty, daughter of the criminal mastermind and famed nemesis of Sherlock Holmes and a notorious detective whom no one wants to work with on account of her previous partners� mysterious murders. Ranging from the elite clubs of Paris to the dark underbelly of the catacombs, their investigation sweeps them into a race to stop a beast from its killing rampage, as Hel and Sam are pitted against men, monsters, and even each other. But beneath their tenuous trust, an unmistakable attraction brews. Is trusting Hel the key to solving the murder, or is Sam yet another pawn in Hel’s game?]]> 372 Susan J. Morris 1959411659 Death 4
This was an interesting little supernatural mystery. An urban fantasy whodunit set in 1900s Paris featuring descendents of the characters from Dracula and the tales of Sherlock Holmes.

The mystery hit a good balance between not being extremely obvious very early on and still giving the reader enough clues to piece it together before the protagonists might as the story goes on, if they were paying attention.

The mystery was inventive and the story made interesting use of folklore. 1900s Paris was both a atmospheric backdrop as well as a deeply important aspect of the story the book tells.

My only real issue is that the story felt a little too exposition heavy in the first part, with every interaction initially having several breaks to deliver exposition. This does get better as the plot gets moving and the book settles into a smooth pace.

Samantha and Helena were pretty enjoyable characters to follow and their burgeoning relationship is cute, though perhaps a little too subtle beyond the exposition. It'll be interesting to see where it goes.

Overall, Strange Beasts is an entertaining work of urban fantasy that borrows from some classics to deliver a intricate and well written mystery. If you enjoy Holmesian mysteries with a supernatural twist, I'd highly recommend picking this up.]]> 3.95 2024
author: Susan J. Morris
name: Death
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/27
date added: 2024/05/27
shelves:
review:
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was an interesting little supernatural mystery. An urban fantasy whodunit set in 1900s Paris featuring descendents of the characters from Dracula and the tales of Sherlock Holmes.

The mystery hit a good balance between not being extremely obvious very early on and still giving the reader enough clues to piece it together before the protagonists might as the story goes on, if they were paying attention.

The mystery was inventive and the story made interesting use of folklore. 1900s Paris was both a atmospheric backdrop as well as a deeply important aspect of the story the book tells.

My only real issue is that the story felt a little too exposition heavy in the first part, with every interaction initially having several breaks to deliver exposition. This does get better as the plot gets moving and the book settles into a smooth pace.

Samantha and Helena were pretty enjoyable characters to follow and their burgeoning relationship is cute, though perhaps a little too subtle beyond the exposition. It'll be interesting to see where it goes.

Overall, Strange Beasts is an entertaining work of urban fantasy that borrows from some classics to deliver a intricate and well written mystery. If you enjoy Holmesian mysteries with a supernatural twist, I'd highly recommend picking this up.
]]> 209439450
An exiled augur who sold her soul to save her brother's life is offered one last job before serving an eternity in hell. When she turns it down, her client sweetens the pot by offering up the one payment she can't resist―the chance to have a future where she grows old with the woman she loves.

To succeed, she is given three days to track down the White City Vampire, Chicago's most notorious serial killer. If she fails, only hell and heartbreak await.]]> 144 C.L. Polk 125037510X Death 0 to-read 3.86 2022
author: C.L. Polk
name: Death
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/17
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 157979441
Being the daughter of the village Capuwa, or demon-priest, Amara is used to keeping mostly to herself. Influenced by the new religious practices brought in by the British Colonizers, the villagers who once respected her father’s craft have turned on the family. Yet, they all still seem to call on him whenever supernatural disturbances arise.

Now someone—or something —is viciously seizing upon men in the jungle. But instead of enlisting Amara’s father’s help, the villages have accused him of carrying out the attacks himself.

As she tries to clear her father’s name, Amara finds herself haunted by dreams that eerily predict the dark forces on her island. And she can’t shake the feeling that it’s all connected to the night she was recovering from a strange illness, and woke up, scared and confused, to hear her mother’s frantic cries: No one can find out what happened .

Lush, otherworldly, and recalling horror classics like Carrie and The Exorcist , Island Witch is a deliciously creepy and darkly feminist tale about the horrors of moral panic, the violent space between girlhood and adulthood, and what happens when female rage is finally unleashed.]]> 384 Amanda Jayatissa 0593549260 Death 0 to-read 3.62 2024
author: Amanda Jayatissa
name: Death
average rating: 3.62
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/11
shelves: to-read
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]]> 37941735
When product goes missing at their Washington Territory outpost, Alma is tasked with tracking the thief and recovering the drugs. In disguise as the scrappy dockworker Jack Camp, this should be easy—once she muscles her way into the local organization, wins the trust of the magnetic local boss and his boys, discovers the turncoat, and keeps them all from uncovering her secrets. All this, while sending coded dispatches to the circling Pinkerton agents to keep them from closing in.

Alma’s enjoying her dangerous game of shifting identities and double crosses as she fights for a promotion and an invitation back into Delphine’s bed. But it’s getting harder and harder to keep her cover stories straight and to know whom to trust. One wrong move and she could be unmasked: as a woman, as a traitor, or as a spy.

A propulsive, sensual tour de force, The Best Bad Things introduces Katrina Carrasco, a bold new voice in crime fiction.]]> 400 Katrina Carrasco 0374123691 Death 0 to-read 3.33 2018
author: Katrina Carrasco
name: Death
average rating: 3.33
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 35395539 36 J.Y. Yang 0765398907 Death 0 to-read 3.79 2017
author: J.Y. Yang
name: Death
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 49927785 12 Malka Ann Older Death 4 sapphic-speculative 4.47 2019
author: Malka Ann Older
name: Death
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at: 2024/05/04
date added: 2024/05/04
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:

]]> 5356476
Tied to local legends of supernatural magic, as well as documented accidents and murders, the gnarled tree takes root in Sarah's imagination, prompting her to write her own account of its unsavory history.

And as the oak continues to possess her dreams and nearly almost all her waking thoughts, Sarah risks her health and her sanity to unearth a revelation planted centuries ago...]]> 385 Caitlín R. Kiernan 0451462769 Death 0 to-read 3.64 2009
author: Caitlín R. Kiernan
name: Death
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 43401925 In this captivating science fiction novel from an award-winning author, public gatherings are illegal making concerts impossible, except for those willing to break the law for the love of music, and for one chance at human connection.

In the Before, when the government didn't prohibit large public gatherings, Luce Cannon was on top of the world. One of her songs had just taken off and she was on her way to becoming a star. Now, in the After, terror attacks and deadly viruses have led the government to ban concerts, and Luce's connection to the world—her music, her purpose—is closed off forever. She does what she has to do: she performs in illegal concerts to a small but passionate community, always evading the law.

Rosemary Laws barely remembers the Before times. She spends her days in Hoodspace, helping customers order all of their goods online for drone delivery—no physical contact with humans needed. By lucky chance, she finds a new job and a new calling: discover amazing musicians and bring their concerts to everyone via virtual reality. The only catch is that she'll have to do something she's never done before and go out in public. Find the illegal concerts and bring musicians into the limelight they deserve.ÌýBut when she sees how the world could actually be, that won’t be enough.]]> 384 Sarah Pinsker 1984802593 Death 0 to-read 3.95 2019
author: Sarah Pinsker
name: Death
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 201907677
But that's not true, not really. Abigail isn't David's wife. She's not even human. She's a replacement, built in the image of the real Abigail, who died sixteen years ago.

When the law changes in three weeks, Abigail won't need to be David's wife any longer. She won't need to be a woman, or a human, if she doesn't want to be. She's going to be able to find out exactly who she is.

But if she's not Abigail Fuller, who is she?

Both tender and powerful, Some Body Like Me explores the boundaries of sexuality and the indefinable human capacity for love at the end of the world. Perfect for fans of Emily St John Mandel, Kazuo Ishiguro and Sequoia Nagamatsu.]]> 384 Lucy Lapinska 1399623052 Death 0 to-read 4.52 2025
author: Lucy Lapinska
name: Death
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2024/05/03
shelves: to-read
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]]> 209703992 Cathy Pegau's sharp, captivating historical mystery about two women in turn-of-the-century New York solving murder and fighting the heteropatriarchy.

There can be a blurry line between what is ethical and what is legal.

Margot Baxter Harriman took the reins of B&H Foods after her father passed. It’s not easy being a business woman in 1912, but she is determined to continue what her grandparents started decades ago, no matter what it takes.

When Margot finds Mrs. Gilroy, her father’s former assistant, dead in the office with a half-finished note confessing to nebulous misdeeds, she seeks out help from a very discreet, private investigator to figure out what's going on. Her company, and her good name, depends on determining the truth, otherwise she could lose everything, including her freedom.

Loretta “Rett� Mancini has run her father’s investigation operation since he started becoming increasingly forgetful. When Margot offers her the chance to look into the potential scandal with B&H, she jumps at the chance.

But the more the two dig, the more it becomes clear that Margot's company may be too far lost...and her life is at stake.]]> Cathy Pegau Death 0 to-read 3.76
author: Cathy Pegau
name: Death
average rating: 3.76
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211434035 A gorgeous, atmospheric debut fantasy that reimagines the Jewish myth of golem in a tale rooted in history, folklore, and sapphic romance—perfect for fans of Katherine Arden, Ava Reid, Hannah Whitten, and Naomi Novik.

The forest eats the girls who wander out after dark.

As the healer’s daughter, Malka has seen how the curse of the woods has plagued her village, but when the Ozmini Church comes to collect their tithes, they don’t listen to the warnings about a monster lurking in the trees. After a clergy girl wanders too close to the forest and Malka’s mother is accused of her murder, Malka strikes a bargain with a zealot Ozmini priest. If she brings him the monster, he will spare her mother from execution.

When she ventures into the blood-soaked woods, Malka finds a monster, though not the one she expects: an inscrutable, disgraced golem who agrees to implicate herself, but only after Malka helps her free the imprisoned rabbi who created her.

But a deal easily made is not easily kept. And as their bargain begins to unravel a much more sinister threat, protecting her people may force Malka to endanger the one person she left home to save—and face her growing feelings for the very creature she was taught to fear.]]> 400 Maddie Martinez 1035048795 Death 0 to-read 4.29 2025
author: Maddie Martinez
name: Death
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 9375 Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe is a now-classic novel about two women: Evelyn, who is in the sad slump of middle age, and gray-headed Mrs. Threadgoode, who is telling her life story. Her tale includes two more women, the irrepressibly daredevilish tomboy Idgie and her friend Ruth who back in the thirties ran a little place in Whistle Stop, Alabama, offering good coffee, southern barbecue, and all kinds of love and laughter, even an occasional murder. And as the past unfolds, the present will never be quite the same again.]]> 416 Fannie Flagg 0375508414 Death 0 to-read 4.28 1987
author: Fannie Flagg
name: Death
average rating: 4.28
book published: 1987
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 53966531
Selfless, dutiful, and just a touch naive, she takes to both her place as a parlor maid and to her new roommate, the bookish and progressive lady’s maid, Esther. In another time, the two women would have kept one another’s company forever in their little attic bedroom, living out their days in the employ of a Lord. But it’s now the dawn of a new age. The expanding empire has brought with it not only plundered wealth, but worldliness and new ideas. Suffragists agitate in the street, idle-rich bohemians challenge sexual mores, and Patience and Esther slowly come to realize the world is wider and full of more adventure and opportunity than they ever imagined . . . so long as they find the will to seize it.

Sensual, sweet, and beautifully illustrated, PATIENCE & ESTHER is a steamy period romance and an inspirational erotic journey across the epic sweep of history, from the end of a gilded age to the start of an uncharted future.]]> 328 Sarah Winifred Searle 1945820705 Death 0 to-read 3.80 2021
author: Sarah Winifred Searle
name: Death
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 20625696
Devon, 1349. In Brauntone, where seagulls screech across the fields and the wind has a mind to change, Father Thomas arrives as the new priest. Determined to impress his congregation, he quells fears of the coming pestilence with promises of protection.

For Anne, the priest’s arrival is an opportunity that at sixteen, she feels all too ready for. Convinced a grand fate awaits, she moves in as Thomas’s housekeeper, though hopeful of something more. But his home is a place without love or kindness. So when a strange, mute Maid is discovered, washed up in the marshes, and taken in, Anne is grateful for the company. Their friendship is to give Anne the chance of a happiness she thought she’d never know.

But soon the plague strikes Brauntone, spreading panic. And as the villagers� fear turns to anger, Thomas must sacrifice anything to restore their faith in him.]]> 400 Rosie Garland 0007492790 Death 0 to-read 3.50 2014
author: Rosie Garland
name: Death
average rating: 3.50
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 53306127 A moving and gripping story about three women who keep unspeakable truths, from the Richard & Judy recommended bestselling author Julie Cohen.

Viola has an impossible talent. Searching for meaning in her grief, she uses her photography to feel closer to her late father, taking solace from the skills he taught her - and to keep her distance from her husband. But her pictures seem to capture things invisible to the eye . . .

Henriette is a celebrated spirit medium, carrying nothing but her secrets with her as she travels the country. When she meets Viola, a powerful connection is sparked between them - but Victorian society is no place for reckless women.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, invisible threads join Viola and Henriette to another woman who lives in secrecy, hiding her dangerous act of rebellion in plain sight.

Faith. Courage. Love. What will they risk for freedom?]]> 352 Julie Cohen 1409179877 Death 0 to-read 3.91 2020
author: Julie Cohen
name: Death
average rating: 3.91
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 35890273
Unfortunately it soon becomes clear that all her demons have come with her. Prowlers, sexual obsessives, frauds, imposters, suicides and murderers: the tropes of her fictions clamour for her attention, rudely intruding on her peaceful Suffolk retreat. After the arrival of Ginny, an enigmatic young journalist bent on interviewing her, events take a catastrophic turn. Except, as always in Highsmith's troubled life, matters are not quite as they first appear . . .

Masterfully recreating Highsmith's much exercised fantasies of murder and madness, Jill Dawson probes the darkest reaches of the imagination in this novel - at once a brilliant portrait of a writer and an atmospheric, emotionally charged, riveting tale.]]> 256 Jill Dawson 1444731130 Death 0 to-read 3.32 2016
author: Jill Dawson
name: Death
average rating: 3.32
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 1585299 344 Shamim Sarif 075532191X Death 0 to-read 4.06 2001
author: Shamim Sarif
name: Death
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2001
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 13136119
A mysterious gathering of thirteen people is interrupted by local magistrate, Roger Nowell. Is this a witches' Sabbat?

Two notorious Lancashire witches are already in Lancaster Castle waiting trial. Why is the beautiful and wealthy Alice Nutter defending them? And why is she among the group of thirteen on Pendle Hill?

Elsewhere, a starved, abused child lurks. And a Jesuit priest and former Gunpowder plotter, recently returned from France, is widely rumoured to be heading for Lancashire. But who will offer him sanctuary? And how quickly can he be caught?

This is the reign of James I, a Protestant King with an obsession: to rid his realm of twin evils, witchcraft and Catholicism, at any price...]]> 194 Jeanette Winterson 0099561859 Death 0 to-read 3.40 2012
author: Jeanette Winterson
name: Death
average rating: 3.40
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 43879179
Shim Cheong lost her mother only 7 days after she was born and since her father was blind, she started to depend on people’s goodwill by living as a beggar. However, her life and her heart would change after saving the woman who was to marry minister Jang. This is a story based on a legend. But what is the real story behind it? What really happened? Will it have a happy ending?

Author: Seri
Artist: Biwan]]> Seri Death 0 4.69
author: Seri
name: Death
average rating: 4.69
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/01
shelves:
review:

]]> 31450910
Reeling from the recent death of her cop father, Roxane finds herself drawn to the story of Sarah's vanishing act, especially when she thinks she's linked Sarah's disappearance to one of her father's unsolved murder cases involving another teen girl. Despite her self-destructive tendencies, Roxane starts to hope that maybe she can save Brad's life and her own.

With echoes of Sue Grafton, Dennis Lehane and the hit podcast Serial, The Last Place You Look is the gripping debut of both a bold new voice and character.]]> 323 Kristen Lepionka 1250120519 Death 0 to-read 3.93 2017
author: Kristen Lepionka
name: Death
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 58787294 A wedding weekend spirals out of control in this bold, electrifying, hilarious novel about the complexities of female friendship 

Robin and Ellie have been best friends since childhood. When Robin came out, Ellie was there for her. When Ellie's father died, Robin had her back. But when Ellie asks Robin to be her maid of honor, she is reluctant. A queer academic, Robin is dubious of the elaborate wedding rituals now sweeping the nation, which go far beyond champagne toasts and a bouquet toss. But loyalty wins out, and Robin accepts.Ìý

Yet, as the wedding weekend approaches, a series of ominous occurrences lead Robin to second-guess her decision. It seems that everyone in the bridal party is out to get her. Perhaps even Ellie herself.Ìý

Manically entertaining, viciously funny and eerily campy, So Happy for You is the ultimate send-up to our collective obsession with the wedding industry complex and a riveting, unexpectedly poignant depiction of friendship in all its messy glory.Ìý]]> 304 Celia Laskey 1335426906 Death 0 to-read 3.37 2022
author: Celia Laskey
name: Death
average rating: 3.37
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 35133064
Mistry Law is handling the will of Mr. Omar Farid, a wealthy Muslim mill owner who has left three widows behind. But as Perveen goes through the papers, she notices something strange: all three have signed over their inheritance to a charity. What will they live on if they forefeit what their husband left them? Perveen is suspicious.

The Farid widows live in purdah: strict seclusion, never leaving the women's quarters or speaking to any men. Are they being taken advantage of by an unscrupulous guardian? Perveen tries to investigate and realizes her instincts about the will were correct when tensions escalate to murder. It's her responsibility to figure out what really happened on Malabar Hill, and to ensure that nobody is in further danger.]]> 385 Sujata Massey 1616957786 Death 0 to-read 3.88 2018
author: Sujata Massey
name: Death
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 59712013
Your favorite characters from Team Avatar and beyond are here in this collection of stories, from the heartwarming to the hilarious. Join Korra, Asami, Mako, Bolin, Tenzin, and more familiar faces from The Legend of Korra, featured in stories specially crafted by a bevy of talented comics creators! Be sure to add these all-new stories to your Avatar Legends library!]]> 80 Michael Dante DiMartino 1506721869 Death 4 4.15 2022
author: Michael Dante DiMartino
name: Death
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/28
date added: 2024/04/28
shelves:
review:

]]> 203608430 In this epic and seductive gothic fantasy, a vampire escapes the thrall of Dracula and embarks on her own search for self-discovery and true love.

Her name was written in the pages of someone else's story: Lucy Westenra was one of Dracula's first victims.

But her death was only the beginning. Lucy rose from the grave a vampire, and has spent her immortal life trying to escape from Dracula's clutches--and trying to discover who she really is and what she truly wants.

Her undead life takes an unexpected turn when, in twenty-first-century London, she meets another woman who is also yearning to break free from her past. Iris’s family has built a health empire based on a sinister secret, and they’ll do anything to stay in power.

Lucy has long believed she would never love again. But she finds herself compelled by the charming Iris, while Iris is mesmerized by the confident and glamorous Lucy. But their intense connection and blossoming love is threatened by forces from without. Iris's mother won't let go of her without a fight, and Lucy's past still has fangs: Dracula is on the prowl again.

Lucy Westenra has been a tragically murdered teen, a lonesome adventurer, and a fearsome hunter, but happiness always eluded her. Can she find the strength to destroy Dracula once and for all, or will her heart once again be her undoing?]]> 464 Kiersten White 0593724402 Death 5 sapphic-speculative
4.75/5

I really loved this book, but a fair warning to anyone interested, that if you are particularly attached to the characters of original Dracula(barring Lucy) or consider classics to be really untouchable, you may find yourself hating this.

That said, if you are willing to go in with an open mind or unaware of what the novel entails, this novel is a really fun ride. I do think this novel works without having read Dracula, but the reader may be left more in suspense initially.

Getting to the content of the book itself, the first 3/5th of the novel is told mainly in 3 perspectives, first is Lucy's journal retelling the story of Dracula from her perspective, the second is Lucy telling the story of her 130 years of life and journey since then to her therapist, and the third is from the perspective of Iris in present day meeting Lucy, falling in love, and starting the whole plotline of the vampire pyramind scheme.

I love stories of vampires/immortals and the many lives they weave through throughout history influencing the world, so the second perspective was close to my favourite aspect of this book. The characters she encounters during those 130 years(the vampires are mainly the significant characters here, though the therapist was a surprisingly fun addition) were fascinating and how she influenced each of them was rather interesting to read. This book is a story about women reclaiming their personhood, autonomy, sexuality, identity, and themselves, and I think it's best reflected in those sections. I did sort of end up wishing for a bit more of it, it skips a large section of time in the middle, but I highly enjoyed what there was.

What was possibly even better about this book than the recounting of Lucy's vampiric life, was how all the plotlines in every perspective(even short interludes outside of the main storyline) came together, both thematically and narratively. This book is brilliantly plotted. It's not a short book, but the pacing is really strong and there doesn't feel like there is any excess that doesn't serve the overarching narrative and themes. My only slight issue with the overall narrative was that a certain part of the ending felt slightly like a copout that wasn't necessarily earned to give a happier ending, but I didn't mind it too much.

The characters in this book(again, unless you are very attached to the characters of Dracula, but even those characters really) are all interesting and in my opinion, rather well written. I loved the Queen, Doctor, and the Lover. Lucy was just a wonderful protagonist to follow. Iris took a bit more time for me to get used to, her modernity a sharp clash to Lucy's perspectives, but I ended up really enjoying her too. The relationship between Lucy and Iris develops quite fast, but it made sense and all their jokes and quirks were really cute.

The narration of this book blends many styles and most of it mashes quite well. The narration is also often quite funny, how can it not be when a large part of the story is a vampire pyramid scheme in Utah. Few of the one liners didn't always land for me, but the humour meshed with me overall.

To conclude, Lucy Undying is an intricate(and funny) story about women reclaiming themselves. Keeping in mind aforementioned caveats about people's relationship to Dracula and classics, I'd honestly recommend this book to anyone, but especially people who enjoy reading about vampires, immortals, and yes, pyramid schemes in Utah. I think this might end up being a new favourite for me.]]> 3.71 2024
author: Kiersten White
name: Death
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/04/27
date added: 2024/04/27
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

4.75/5

I really loved this book, but a fair warning to anyone interested, that if you are particularly attached to the characters of original Dracula(barring Lucy) or consider classics to be really untouchable, you may find yourself hating this.

That said, if you are willing to go in with an open mind or unaware of what the novel entails, this novel is a really fun ride. I do think this novel works without having read Dracula, but the reader may be left more in suspense initially.

Getting to the content of the book itself, the first 3/5th of the novel is told mainly in 3 perspectives, first is Lucy's journal retelling the story of Dracula from her perspective, the second is Lucy telling the story of her 130 years of life and journey since then to her therapist, and the third is from the perspective of Iris in present day meeting Lucy, falling in love, and starting the whole plotline of the vampire pyramind scheme.

I love stories of vampires/immortals and the many lives they weave through throughout history influencing the world, so the second perspective was close to my favourite aspect of this book. The characters she encounters during those 130 years(the vampires are mainly the significant characters here, though the therapist was a surprisingly fun addition) were fascinating and how she influenced each of them was rather interesting to read. This book is a story about women reclaiming their personhood, autonomy, sexuality, identity, and themselves, and I think it's best reflected in those sections. I did sort of end up wishing for a bit more of it, it skips a large section of time in the middle, but I highly enjoyed what there was.

What was possibly even better about this book than the recounting of Lucy's vampiric life, was how all the plotlines in every perspective(even short interludes outside of the main storyline) came together, both thematically and narratively. This book is brilliantly plotted. It's not a short book, but the pacing is really strong and there doesn't feel like there is any excess that doesn't serve the overarching narrative and themes. My only slight issue with the overall narrative was that a certain part of the ending felt slightly like a copout that wasn't necessarily earned to give a happier ending, but I didn't mind it too much.

The characters in this book(again, unless you are very attached to the characters of Dracula, but even those characters really) are all interesting and in my opinion, rather well written. I loved the Queen, Doctor, and the Lover. Lucy was just a wonderful protagonist to follow. Iris took a bit more time for me to get used to, her modernity a sharp clash to Lucy's perspectives, but I ended up really enjoying her too. The relationship between Lucy and Iris develops quite fast, but it made sense and all their jokes and quirks were really cute.

The narration of this book blends many styles and most of it mashes quite well. The narration is also often quite funny, how can it not be when a large part of the story is a vampire pyramid scheme in Utah. Few of the one liners didn't always land for me, but the humour meshed with me overall.

To conclude, Lucy Undying is an intricate(and funny) story about women reclaiming themselves. Keeping in mind aforementioned caveats about people's relationship to Dracula and classics, I'd honestly recommend this book to anyone, but especially people who enjoy reading about vampires, immortals, and yes, pyramid schemes in Utah. I think this might end up being a new favourite for me.
]]> 193759650
By the time they are adults, their dreams are murkier. As a performance artist, Giselle must navigate an elite social world she never conceived of. As a coder thrilled by the internet’s early egalitarian promise, Jackie must contend with its more sinister shift toward monetization and surveillance. And as a community activist, Ellen confronts the increasing gentrification and policing overwhelming her New York City neighborhood. Over time their friendship matures and changes, their definitions of success become complicated, and their sense of what matters evolves.

Moving from the predigital 1980s to the art and tech subcultures of the 1990s to a strikingly imagined portrait of the 2040s, Memory Piece is an innovative and audacious story of three lifelong friends as they strive to build satisfying lives in a world that turns out to be radically different from the one they were promised.]]> 304 Lisa Ko 059354210X Death 0 to-read 3.18 2024
author: Lisa Ko
name: Death
average rating: 3.18
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/26
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 127306128 An outsider threatens to expose the secrets at an elite private school in this suspenseful debut novel

Louise Manson is the newest student at Highfield Manor, Dublin’s most exclusive private school. Behind its granite walls are high-arched alcoves, an oak-lined library...and the dark secret Lou has come to expose.

Lou’s working-class status makes her the consummate outsider, until she is befriended by some of her beautiful and wealthy classmates. But after Lou attempts to bring the school’s secret to light, her time at Highfield ends with a lifeless body sprawled at her feet.

Thirty years later, Lou gets a shocking phone call. A high-profile lawyer is bringing a lawsuit against the school—and he needs Lou to testify. Lou will have to confront her past and discover, once and for all, what really happened at Highfield. Powerful and compelling, When We Were Silent is a thrilling story of exploitation, privilege, and retribution.]]> 320 Fiona McPhillips 125090823X Death 0 to-read 3.54 2024
author: Fiona McPhillips
name: Death
average rating: 3.54
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 126431368 From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner comes a heartfelt short story about a complicated friendship and a youthful betrayal that still has the power to shape two women’s lives.

Senatorial favorite Ida Berkowitz is headed for a win. Raised by a hardworking widowed mother, she’s authentic, relatable, and down-to-earth. Voters love her. Polls promise victory. Then her campaign manager utters four awful words: Who is Marissa Schuyler? She had almost managed to forget. Ida’s bunkmate at Camp Golden Hills when they were girls, Marissa was confident, sophisticated, and wealthy. Everything Ida wasn’t. Now the polished wife of a major conservative donor, Marissa’s announced a press conference. About Ida.

Just like that, Ida’s old insecurities come rushing in. So do new feelings of dread. After all these years, she knows what’s on Marissa’s mind. It could undermine everything Ida’s worked for. Because it isn’t very pretty.]]> 53 Jennifer Weiner 1662514050 Death 2 3.90 2023
author: Jennifer Weiner
name: Death
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2024/04/24
date added: 2024/04/24
shelves:
review:

]]> 58890948
The prize: enough money to change everything.

Even though everyone is desperate to win--to seize their dream futures or escape their haunting pasts--Mack feels sure that she can beat her competitors. All she has to do is hide, and she's an expert at that.

It's the reason she's alive, and her family isn't.

But as the people around her begin disappearing one by one, Mack realizes this competition is more sinister than even she imagined, and that together might be the only way to survive.

Fourteen competitors. Seven days. Everywhere to hide, but nowhere to run.

Come out, come out, wherever you are.]]> 240 Kiersten White 0593359232 Death 0 to-read 3.30 2022
author: Kiersten White
name: Death
average rating: 3.30
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 58511583 Does true love break curses or begin them? The dark sorceress of “Sleeping Beauty� reclaims her story in this sequel to Malice.

The Dark Grace is dead.

Feared and despised for the sinister power in her veins, Alyce wreaks her revenge on the kingdom that made her an outcast. Once a realm of decadence and beauty, Briar is now wholly Alyce’s wicked domain. And no one will escape the consequences of her wrath. Not even the one person who holds her heart.

Princess Aurora saw through Alyce’s thorny facade, earning a love that promised the dawn of a new age. But it is a love that came with a heavy price: Aurora now sleeps under a curse that even Alyce’s vast power cannot seem to break. And the dream of the world they would have built together is nothing but ash.

Alyce vows to do anything to wake the woman she loves, even if it means turning into the monster Briar believes her to be. But could Aurora love the villain Alyce has become?

Or is true love only for fairy tales?

Book Two of the Malice Duology]]> 454 Heather Walter 1529156912 Death 4 sapphic-speculative
I liked Malice, but I *love* misrule. It's morally grey characters done right and every character in this book is morally grey. Aurora didn't seem that way to me at the end of Malice, but that has changed since. Similarly, I liked their romance in the last book well enough, but I am much more invested with it now(despite jumping into the other ship at certain points). This book really delivers on the angst and the ending made sense in that regard.

This book expands a lot on scope than its predecessor and has a lot of new characters. All of the new characters added were well written and had depth. They were great additions to the cast(I sort of wish there were more Regan scenes and more of a conversation that gave a bit more closure with her.). The emotional arcs of every character was believable and well executed.

This book is also paced better than Malice, though not completely rid of pacing issues and full of twists.

Overall, a fantastic end to the duology. Highly recommended.]]> 3.74 2022
author: Heather Walter
name: Death
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2022/05/16
date added: 2024/04/23
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:
4.25/5

I liked Malice, but I *love* misrule. It's morally grey characters done right and every character in this book is morally grey. Aurora didn't seem that way to me at the end of Malice, but that has changed since. Similarly, I liked their romance in the last book well enough, but I am much more invested with it now(despite jumping into the other ship at certain points). This book really delivers on the angst and the ending made sense in that regard.

This book expands a lot on scope than its predecessor and has a lot of new characters. All of the new characters added were well written and had depth. They were great additions to the cast(I sort of wish there were more Regan scenes and more of a conversation that gave a bit more closure with her.). The emotional arcs of every character was believable and well executed.

This book is also paced better than Malice, though not completely rid of pacing issues and full of twists.

Overall, a fantastic end to the duology. Highly recommended.
]]> 199798281 Wellness, motherhood, and technology converge in a future California as three women’s seemingly innocuous decisions have consequences greater than they could imagine.

In 2060, the WellPod is the latest launch from the largest tech company the world has ever seen—a fleet of floating personal paradises scattered throughout the Pacific Ocean, focused entirely on health, solitude, and relaxation. Created by an enigmatic founder who will stop at nothing to ensure her company’s success, it is the long-awaited pinnacle of wellness technology. For newly pregnant Maggie, the six-week program is the perfect chance to get away…especially since the baby isn’t her partner’s.

Noa Behar isn’t a perfect fiancée. She’s too distracted, too focused on her work in helping program the WellPod to give Maggie the attention she deserves. But when she discovers something rotten beneath WellPod’s shiny exterior—a history of faulty tech and dangerous cover-ups—she knows one thing: She’ll do whatever it takes to keep Maggie safe.]]> 320 Leslie Stephens 166803431X Death 2 sapphic-speculative
Unfortunately, this book didn't quite work for me. While the premise and themes of this book seemed pretty interesting, the book didn't really do anything new with the themes. All the themes explored seemed to retread well tread ground about tech and motherhood. The book didn't really didn't explore the themes very deeply either, letting it be more tertiary to the thriller aspect.

The thriller aspect of the book mainly hinged on one big reveal, which became very obvious to me less than halfway through the book. I kept waiting for the reveal to happen for most of the book and what that would result in, but the reveal doesn't happen until the end of the book and there was not really anything after. This made most of the reading experience repetitive and pointless. There were some minor reveals that were pretty well executed, but overall the thriller aspect was lacking tension.

This book attempts to deal with some very flawed women and I did appreciate that. I did end up appreciating Noa's character for the most part(though her inability to connect very obvious dots was more than a little frustrating). However, the character motivations/feelings, particularly in case of Maggie, were sometimes quite inconsistent.

One minor thing(it might just be how I am reading them and not entirely objective) is that some of scenes seemed to have a line or two that I felt had slight homophobic implications. Mileage may vary about those though.

Overall, I thought You're Safe Here had a lot of promise, but kind of fell apart on execution.]]> 3.32 2024
author: Leslie Stephens
name: Death
average rating: 3.32
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2024/03/05
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:
Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Unfortunately, this book didn't quite work for me. While the premise and themes of this book seemed pretty interesting, the book didn't really do anything new with the themes. All the themes explored seemed to retread well tread ground about tech and motherhood. The book didn't really didn't explore the themes very deeply either, letting it be more tertiary to the thriller aspect.

The thriller aspect of the book mainly hinged on one big reveal, which became very obvious to me less than halfway through the book. I kept waiting for the reveal to happen for most of the book and what that would result in, but the reveal doesn't happen until the end of the book and there was not really anything after. This made most of the reading experience repetitive and pointless. There were some minor reveals that were pretty well executed, but overall the thriller aspect was lacking tension.

This book attempts to deal with some very flawed women and I did appreciate that. I did end up appreciating Noa's character for the most part(though her inability to connect very obvious dots was more than a little frustrating). However, the character motivations/feelings, particularly in case of Maggie, were sometimes quite inconsistent.

One minor thing(it might just be how I am reading them and not entirely objective) is that some of scenes seemed to have a line or two that I felt had slight homophobic implications. Mileage may vary about those though.

Overall, I thought You're Safe Here had a lot of promise, but kind of fell apart on execution.
]]> 58659343
Moving through something that only resembles normal life, Miri comes to realize that the life that they had before might be gone. Though Leah is still there, Miri can feel the woman she loves slipping from her grasp.

Our Wives Under The Sea is the debut novel from Julia Armfield, the critically acclaimed author of Salt Slow. It’s a story of falling in love, loss, grief, and what life there is in the deep deep sea.]]> 240 Julia Armfield 152901722X Death 5 3.75 2022
author: Julia Armfield
name: Death
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2023/04/08
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative, sapphic-literary
review:

]]> 65213204
Jacqueline Millender is a reclusive billionaire/women’s rights advocate, and thanks to a generous donation, she’s just become the director of the Inside being built on the bones of Manhattan. Her ideas are unorthodox, yet alluring—she's built a whole brand around rethinking the very concept of empowerment.

Shelby, a business major from a working-class family, is drawn to Jacqueline’s promises of power and impact. When she lands her dream job as Jacqueline’s personal assistant, she's instantly swept up into the glamourous world of corporatized feminism. Also drawn into Jacqueline's orbit is Olympia, who is finishing up medical school when Jacqueline recruits her to run the health department Inside. The more Olympia learns about the project, though, the more she realizes there's something much larger at play. As Ava, Olympia, and Shelby start to notice the cracks in Jacqueline's system, Jacqueline tightens her grip, becoming increasingly unhinged and dangerous in what she is willing to do—and who she is willing to sacrifice—to keep her dream alive.

At once a mesmerizing story of queer love, betrayal, and chosen family, and an unflinching indictment of cis, corporate feminism, Yours for the Taking holds a mirror to our own world, in all its beauty and horror.]]> 336 Gabrielle Korn 1250283361 Death 2 sapphic-speculative

I am not quite certain what this book is trying to be. Speculative fiction generally focuses on either ideas primarily or plot and characters primarily. With the way this book starts off and its narration style, it seems to be a book that is trying to focus on ideas. And the ideas that it presents/attempts to challenge initially are promising. It could have been a interesting thought experiment about corporate feminism, gender essentialism, and the climate crisis.

However, somewhere along the way it shifts from exploring ideas with regards to climate fiction and feminism to just the exploits of one megalomaniacal woman. It's says less about the bigger ideas and more about how narcissistic Jacqueline is. It tries to shift to be a more character focused work on occasion as well, but all it leads to is a lack of cohesion in the narrative and ideas that feel very surface level. The attempts to focus on character/plot also falls flat in isolation as there isn't really any tension and the eventual resolution is very anticlimactic.

There has been a significant amount written with regards to feminist theories and climate change. This novel could have addressed or be in conversation with that, but instead it focuses on things that are overdone and contrite. It doesn't even take a strong stance on anything. Yes, billionaire bad, but I think we all know that at this point, so what else?

There is another aspect that was a pet peeve of mine, but is removed from my general critique of the narrative. Going a bit on the spoiler territory, [spoilers removed].

Overall, a pretty disappointing read from something that had a lot of potential.]]> 3.64 2023
author: Gabrielle Korn
name: Death
average rating: 3.64
book published: 2023
rating: 2
read at: 2023/05/29
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:
Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.


I am not quite certain what this book is trying to be. Speculative fiction generally focuses on either ideas primarily or plot and characters primarily. With the way this book starts off and its narration style, it seems to be a book that is trying to focus on ideas. And the ideas that it presents/attempts to challenge initially are promising. It could have been a interesting thought experiment about corporate feminism, gender essentialism, and the climate crisis.

However, somewhere along the way it shifts from exploring ideas with regards to climate fiction and feminism to just the exploits of one megalomaniacal woman. It's says less about the bigger ideas and more about how narcissistic Jacqueline is. It tries to shift to be a more character focused work on occasion as well, but all it leads to is a lack of cohesion in the narrative and ideas that feel very surface level. The attempts to focus on character/plot also falls flat in isolation as there isn't really any tension and the eventual resolution is very anticlimactic.

There has been a significant amount written with regards to feminist theories and climate change. This novel could have addressed or be in conversation with that, but instead it focuses on things that are overdone and contrite. It doesn't even take a strong stance on anything. Yes, billionaire bad, but I think we all know that at this point, so what else?

There is another aspect that was a pet peeve of mine, but is removed from my general critique of the narrative. Going a bit on the spoiler territory, [spoilers removed].

Overall, a pretty disappointing read from something that had a lot of potential.
]]> 198137715 368 Justine Champine 0593447204 Death 3 sapphic-literary
An important thing for readers to know before going into this book is that this book is much more focused on the literary aspect than the thriller aspect. Adjusting expectations to that might help the overall reading experience.

The book examines how living through a mystery of this sort permanently affects all aspects of their lives, how it is constantly at the back of their psyches influencing every decision, and how the lack of closure may freeze lives at a certain moment. It's also a examination of love and how we don't truly see or understand every aspect of the people we love.

All of the above mentioned aspects are interesting and in the start of the book and the last 1/4th of the book, it delivers a slowly unfurling mystery along with these aspects, providing a tense and claustrophobic, yet fascinating read.

However, the problem of the book lies in middle. For at least half of the book towards the middle, the story movement grinds to a screeching halt and the development happens excruciatingly slowly. If often feels meandering and all of the tension dissappears until the last 1/4th. It doesn't help that the narration is lacking in clarity of what is happening in the present(2010) and what are recollections of Jess's memory. Truthfully, it was difficult for me to even maintain engagement through this section and I really had to make myself power through. I am glad I did as the last 1/4th is definitely well done once again, but it did not make for the best reading experience.

Overall though, Knife Reader still manages to make for a compelling read through its explorations, if not the most engaging. It's worth checking out as a deep dive into the psyche of the people left behind on an unresolved missing persons/murder case.]]> 3.44 2024
author: Justine Champine
name: Death
average rating: 3.44
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/04/07
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-literary
review:
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

An important thing for readers to know before going into this book is that this book is much more focused on the literary aspect than the thriller aspect. Adjusting expectations to that might help the overall reading experience.

The book examines how living through a mystery of this sort permanently affects all aspects of their lives, how it is constantly at the back of their psyches influencing every decision, and how the lack of closure may freeze lives at a certain moment. It's also a examination of love and how we don't truly see or understand every aspect of the people we love.

All of the above mentioned aspects are interesting and in the start of the book and the last 1/4th of the book, it delivers a slowly unfurling mystery along with these aspects, providing a tense and claustrophobic, yet fascinating read.

However, the problem of the book lies in middle. For at least half of the book towards the middle, the story movement grinds to a screeching halt and the development happens excruciatingly slowly. If often feels meandering and all of the tension dissappears until the last 1/4th. It doesn't help that the narration is lacking in clarity of what is happening in the present(2010) and what are recollections of Jess's memory. Truthfully, it was difficult for me to even maintain engagement through this section and I really had to make myself power through. I am glad I did as the last 1/4th is definitely well done once again, but it did not make for the best reading experience.

Overall though, Knife Reader still manages to make for a compelling read through its explorations, if not the most engaging. It's worth checking out as a deep dive into the psyche of the people left behind on an unresolved missing persons/murder case.
]]> 199460236 A debut novel about love, family, queerness, and losing your mind in the modern world marks the arrival of a truly original, haunting voice in fiction who will make you laugh, cry, and scream, all in the same breath.

In the midst of god sending her signs through Instagram and Spotify telling her to break up with her girlfriend, twenty-seven-year-old Norma meets a new therapist for one she really needs to write again. With only one story left to finish her collection, Norma is desperate for an should she leave her girlfriend in order to finish her manuscript?

When her new therapist diagnoses her with depersonalization/derealization disorder, Norma insists she doesn't have it’s just Oblivion, the thing that started happening to her when she was two and a half. Haunted by SSRI side effects, her girlfriend’s kindness, her father’s incessant calls, and a world that becomes less hazily fictional by the day, Norma has never felt crazier. And whenever she attempts to write The Last Story, Norma is faced with the reality and unrealities of her past, the society she lives in, and everything that she’s ever believed about life, writing, and love. Against the backdrop of climate change, racial injustice, Google ads, and the metaverse, Norma begins sharing other stories, hoping that they'll help her connect the dissociative dots once and for all. Maybe it's crazy not to be crazy in a place like this. And in the midst of it all is Norma's girlfriend, who may well be an answer in Norma's search for meaning.

Told alternately through Norma's barely fictional fiction and through her crackling stream of consciousness, Please Stop Trying To Leave Me is an honest, comedic, horrifying, and heart-wrenching story about existing in today’s world, challenging all we’ve been taught about the distance between fiction and reality, sanity and insanity, mental illness and healing.]]> 416 Alana Saab 0593686780 Death 4 sapphic-literary
This book is a very raw look at mental health and trauma written in the style of a stream of consciousness narrated during the main character's therapy sessions interspaced with short stories.

The narrative style can take a while to get into and the book is somewhat of a slow build, but is rather engrossing once you get into it.

As mentioned before, this book is a very raw look at trauma, so it might be worth for some readers to look up the content warnings. It delves into how trauma irrevocably affects the lives of survivors and there is no clear way to be rid of it, and that even knowing the cause of trauma can't always explain people's actions. All we can really do is move forward, learn to live despite of it, and choose love.

That's where the book leaves the reader, and I think it's very apt.

Overall, Please Stop Trying to Leave Me is an unflinching look at learning to cope with severe mental health issues and learning to live despite all the horrors of the modern world. If mental health narratives and books like Emily Austin's work are something that you are interested in, I recommend picking this up.]]> 3.99 2024
author: Alana Saab
name: Death
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/04/15
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-literary
review:
Thanks to publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book is a very raw look at mental health and trauma written in the style of a stream of consciousness narrated during the main character's therapy sessions interspaced with short stories.

The narrative style can take a while to get into and the book is somewhat of a slow build, but is rather engrossing once you get into it.

As mentioned before, this book is a very raw look at trauma, so it might be worth for some readers to look up the content warnings. It delves into how trauma irrevocably affects the lives of survivors and there is no clear way to be rid of it, and that even knowing the cause of trauma can't always explain people's actions. All we can really do is move forward, learn to live despite of it, and choose love.

That's where the book leaves the reader, and I think it's very apt.

Overall, Please Stop Trying to Leave Me is an unflinching look at learning to cope with severe mental health issues and learning to live despite all the horrors of the modern world. If mental health narratives and books like Emily Austin's work are something that you are interested in, I recommend picking this up.
]]> 176443380
As her paranoia spirals out of control, Enid must contend with her mounting suspicion that something is seriously wrong with her. Because at the end of the day there’s only one person she can’t outrun—herself.

Brimming with quirky humor, charm, and heart, Interesting Facts about Space effortlessly shows us the power of revealing our secret shames, the most beautifully human parts of us all.]]> 320 Emily R. Austin 1668014238 Death 5 sapphic-literary
This book really took me on a journey. I felt so many things, good and bad. Austin's writing is so engrossing and Enid's paranoia felt so vivid at some points, that I could no longer sit alone in my lab while I was reading this book out of a level of anxiety. I haven't felt that way consuming even any kind of horror content since I was young child.

It was very relatable in some very specific ways(that I am not quite ready to introspect about), while also being very different than anything I've experienced in other ways. However, the writing kept me thoroughly enraptured through both circumstances.

The book also kept surprising me(not necessarily by plot twists, though they are there). It challenged a few assumptions I had made while reading the earlier parts the book and offered a lot of perspective into a variety of topics (I have to specifically mention that I understand true crime fans a lot better now lol). The characters and all their interactions also surprised me with how much depth they all had. Even one who was only on page a short hookup had surprising depth in her interactions. I specifically adored the sisters, but also most of the cast in general.

To end my rambling review, I loved this book. It's not perfect. I had a few issues here and there, but it was still among one of best things I've read or in general consumed this year. I think I'll keep thinking about this book for quite a while.

Merged review:

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book really took me on a journey. I felt so many things, good and bad. Austin's writing is so engrossing and Enid's paranoia felt so vivid at some points, that I could no longer sit alone in my lab while I was reading this book out of a level of anxiety. I haven't felt that way consuming even any kind of horror content since I was young child.

It was very relatable in some very specific ways(that I am not quite ready to introspect about), while also being very different than anything I've experienced in other ways. However, the writing kept me thoroughly enraptured through both circumstances.

The book also kept surprising me(not necessarily by plot twists, though they are there). It challenged a few assumptions I had made while reading the earlier parts the book and offered a lot of perspective into a variety of topics (I have to specifically mention that I understand true crime fans a lot better now lol). The characters and all their interactions also surprised me with how much depth they all had. Even one who was only on page a short hookup had surprising depth in her interactions. I specifically adored the sisters, but also most of the cast in general.

To end my rambling review, I loved this book. It's not perfect. I had a few issues here and there, but it was still among one of best things I've read or in general consumed this year. I think I'll keep thinking about this book for quite a while.

Merged review:

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book really took me on a journey. I felt so many things, good and bad. Austin's writing is so engrossing and Enid's paranoia felt so vivid at some points, that I could no longer sit alone in my lab while I was reading this book out of a level of anxiety. I haven't felt that way consuming even any kind of horror content since I was young child.

It was very relatable in some very specific ways(that I am not quite ready to introspect about), while also being very different than anything I've experienced in other ways. However, the writing kept me thoroughly enraptured through both circumstances.

The book also kept surprising me(not necessarily by plot twists, though they are there). It challenged a few assumptions I had made while reading the earlier parts the book and offered a lot of perspective into a variety of topics (I have to specifically mention that I understand true crime fans a lot better now lol). The characters and all their interactions also surprised me with how much depth they all had. Even one who was only on page a short hookup had surprising depth in her interactions. I specifically adored the sisters, but also most of the cast in general.

To end my rambling review, I loved this book. It's not perfect. I had a few issues here and there, but it was still among one of best things I've read or in general consumed this year. I think I'll keep thinking about this book for quite a while.]]> 3.83 2024
author: Emily R. Austin
name: Death
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2023/11/17
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-literary
review:
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book really took me on a journey. I felt so many things, good and bad. Austin's writing is so engrossing and Enid's paranoia felt so vivid at some points, that I could no longer sit alone in my lab while I was reading this book out of a level of anxiety. I haven't felt that way consuming even any kind of horror content since I was young child.

It was very relatable in some very specific ways(that I am not quite ready to introspect about), while also being very different than anything I've experienced in other ways. However, the writing kept me thoroughly enraptured through both circumstances.

The book also kept surprising me(not necessarily by plot twists, though they are there). It challenged a few assumptions I had made while reading the earlier parts the book and offered a lot of perspective into a variety of topics (I have to specifically mention that I understand true crime fans a lot better now lol). The characters and all their interactions also surprised me with how much depth they all had. Even one who was only on page a short hookup had surprising depth in her interactions. I specifically adored the sisters, but also most of the cast in general.

To end my rambling review, I loved this book. It's not perfect. I had a few issues here and there, but it was still among one of best things I've read or in general consumed this year. I think I'll keep thinking about this book for quite a while.

Merged review:

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book really took me on a journey. I felt so many things, good and bad. Austin's writing is so engrossing and Enid's paranoia felt so vivid at some points, that I could no longer sit alone in my lab while I was reading this book out of a level of anxiety. I haven't felt that way consuming even any kind of horror content since I was young child.

It was very relatable in some very specific ways(that I am not quite ready to introspect about), while also being very different than anything I've experienced in other ways. However, the writing kept me thoroughly enraptured through both circumstances.

The book also kept surprising me(not necessarily by plot twists, though they are there). It challenged a few assumptions I had made while reading the earlier parts the book and offered a lot of perspective into a variety of topics (I have to specifically mention that I understand true crime fans a lot better now lol). The characters and all their interactions also surprised me with how much depth they all had. Even one who was only on page a short hookup had surprising depth in her interactions. I specifically adored the sisters, but also most of the cast in general.

To end my rambling review, I loved this book. It's not perfect. I had a few issues here and there, but it was still among one of best things I've read or in general consumed this year. I think I'll keep thinking about this book for quite a while.

Merged review:

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book really took me on a journey. I felt so many things, good and bad. Austin's writing is so engrossing and Enid's paranoia felt so vivid at some points, that I could no longer sit alone in my lab while I was reading this book out of a level of anxiety. I haven't felt that way consuming even any kind of horror content since I was young child.

It was very relatable in some very specific ways(that I am not quite ready to introspect about), while also being very different than anything I've experienced in other ways. However, the writing kept me thoroughly enraptured through both circumstances.

The book also kept surprising me(not necessarily by plot twists, though they are there). It challenged a few assumptions I had made while reading the earlier parts the book and offered a lot of perspective into a variety of topics (I have to specifically mention that I understand true crime fans a lot better now lol). The characters and all their interactions also surprised me with how much depth they all had. Even one who was only on page a short hookup had surprising depth in her interactions. I specifically adored the sisters, but also most of the cast in general.

To end my rambling review, I loved this book. It's not perfect. I had a few issues here and there, but it was still among one of best things I've read or in general consumed this year. I think I'll keep thinking about this book for quite a while.
]]> 195703882 Crying in H-Mart meets My Sister, the Serial Killer in this feminist psychological horror about the making of a female serial killer from a Korean-American perspective.

Ji-won’s life tumbles into disarray in the wake of her appa’s extramarital affair and subsequent departure. Her mother, distraught. Her younger sister, hurt and confused. Her college freshman grades, failing. Her dreams, horrifying� yet enticing.

In them, Ji-won walks through bloody rooms full of eyes. Succulent blue eyes. Salivatingly blue eyes. Eyes the same shape and shade as George’s, who is Umma’s obnoxious new boyfriend. George has already overstayed his welcome in her family’s claustrophobic apartment. He brags about his puffed-up consulting job, ogles Asian waitresses while dining out, and acts condescending toward Ji-won and her sister as if he deserves all of Umma’s fawning adoration. No, George doesn’t deserve anything from her family. Ji-won will make sure of that.

For no matter how many victims accumulate around her campus or how many people she must deceive and manipulate, Ji-won’s hunger and her rage deserve to be sated.

A brilliantly inventive, subversive novel about a young woman unraveling, Monika Kim’s The Eyes Are the Best Part is a story of a family falling apart and trying to find their way back to each other, marking a bold new voice in horror that will leave readers mesmerized and craving more.]]> 278 Monika Kim 1645661237 Death 4
I've wanted to read this book since I saw its query letter on Reddit once and it did not disappoint. It was an eery, yet propulsive read. It was also darkly funny, which I didn't expect.

Ji-Won as a protagonist is more than a little unhinged, but you can't help but root for her(to eat those delicious eyes). I am not going to spoil it, but there is more than one man in this book that you are likely to root for getting what is coming for them. The family dynamics in the book were also fascinating to read about and more than a little relatable as an Asian woman.

The book is very straightforward in its messaging, and it does not hold back. A lot of the interactions involve very real forms of misogyny and racism, it's a wonder why more of us aren't eating eyes really.

There's something very dreamlike overall about the book, even outside of all the dream sequences, that often made me question how much of it was actually happening.


Overall, The Eyes Are The Best Part is a really strong debut from an author to watch out for. If you like reading about unhinged women(who just might be gay, which is really more reason to root for her) and feminine rage or just enjoy psychological horror in general, I'd highly recommend picking this book up.]]> 3.82 2024
author: Monika Kim
name: Death
average rating: 3.82
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/02/25
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative, sapphic-literary
review:
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I've wanted to read this book since I saw its query letter on Reddit once and it did not disappoint. It was an eery, yet propulsive read. It was also darkly funny, which I didn't expect.

Ji-Won as a protagonist is more than a little unhinged, but you can't help but root for her(to eat those delicious eyes). I am not going to spoil it, but there is more than one man in this book that you are likely to root for getting what is coming for them. The family dynamics in the book were also fascinating to read about and more than a little relatable as an Asian woman.

The book is very straightforward in its messaging, and it does not hold back. A lot of the interactions involve very real forms of misogyny and racism, it's a wonder why more of us aren't eating eyes really.

There's something very dreamlike overall about the book, even outside of all the dream sequences, that often made me question how much of it was actually happening.


Overall, The Eyes Are The Best Part is a really strong debut from an author to watch out for. If you like reading about unhinged women(who just might be gay, which is really more reason to root for her) and feminine rage or just enjoy psychological horror in general, I'd highly recommend picking this book up.
]]> 199797848 A controversial Los Angeles author attempts to revive her career and finally find true love in this hilarious nod to 1950s lesbian pulp fiction.

Having recently moved both herself and her formidable perfume bottle collection into a tiny bungalow in Los Angeles, mid-list author Astrid Dahl finds herself back in the Zoom writer’s group she cofounded, Sapphic Scribes, after an incident that leaves her and her career lightly canceled. But she temporarily forgets all that by throwing herself into a few sexy distractions—like Ivy, a grad student who smells like metallic orchids and is researching 1950s lesbian pulp, or her new neighbor, Penelope, who smells like patchouli.

Penelope, a painter living off Urban Outfitters settlement money, immediately ingratiates herself in Astrid’s life, bonding with her best friends and family, just as Astrid and Ivy begin to date in person. Astrid feels judged and threatened by Penelope, a responsible older vegan, but also finds her irresistibly sexy.

When Astrid receives an unexpected call from her agent with the news that actress and influencer Kat Gold wants to adapt her previous novel for TV, Astrid finally has a chance to resurrect her waning career. But the pressure causes Astrid’s worst vice to rear its head—the Patricia Highsmith, a blend of Adderall, alcohol, and cigarettes—and results in blackouts and a disturbing series of events.

Unapologetically feminine yet ribald, steamy yet hilarious, Anna Dorn has crafted an exquisite homage to the lesbian pulp of yore, reclaiming it for our internet- and celebrity-obsessed world.]]> 352 Anna Dorn 1668047179 Death 4 sapphic-literary

4.25/5

This book was such a hilarious ride into the world of writers, LA lesbians, cancel culture, toxic relationships and more. It's sharply written clever satire, yet it still has a lot of heart while exploring many complicated topics with nuance.

Astrid is such a great main character and so interesting to follow. Strangely relatable too, and of course hilarious. I adored her. This book also homages lesbian pulp of yore, while also critically examining it. It gave me a new appreciation for lesbian pulp.

I did have a few issues with the pacing of the book, which I felt could have been tightened in certain parts and did think some resolutions could possibly have been a bit more expanded. However, I still really enjoyed it.

If any of what I mentioned sounds interesting to you, or if you just want to laugh(cause this is the funniest book I've read all year), I'd highly recommend picking this up.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.]]> 3.89 2024
author: Anna Dorn
name: Death
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2023/12/21
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-literary
review:
We need more more messy and just a bit problematic lesbian rep like this- sincerely, a messy (possibly problematic) lesbian.


4.25/5

This book was such a hilarious ride into the world of writers, LA lesbians, cancel culture, toxic relationships and more. It's sharply written clever satire, yet it still has a lot of heart while exploring many complicated topics with nuance.

Astrid is such a great main character and so interesting to follow. Strangely relatable too, and of course hilarious. I adored her. This book also homages lesbian pulp of yore, while also critically examining it. It gave me a new appreciation for lesbian pulp.

I did have a few issues with the pacing of the book, which I felt could have been tightened in certain parts and did think some resolutions could possibly have been a bit more expanded. However, I still really enjoyed it.

If any of what I mentioned sounds interesting to you, or if you just want to laugh(cause this is the funniest book I've read all year), I'd highly recommend picking this up.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
]]> 32470949
Written by series co-creator Michael Dante DiMartino and drawn by Irene Koh (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Afrina and the Glass Coffin), with consultation by Bryan Konietzko, this is the official continuation of The Legend of Korra!]]> 76 Michael Dante DiMartino 1506700403 Death 3 sapphic-speculative 4.32 2018
author: Michael Dante DiMartino
name: Death
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2018
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:

]]> 41129909 Written by series co-creator Michael Dante DiMartino and drawn by Irene Koh (Secret Origins: Batgirl, Afrina and the Glass Coffin) and with consultation by Bryan Konietzko, this is the official continuation of The Legend of Korra! Collects The Legend of Korra: Turf Wars Parts One, Two, and Three.

New beginnings for Korra and Asami!

After a refreshing sojourn in the Spirit World, Korra and Asami return to Republic City but find nothing but political hijinks and human vs. spirit conflict! Pompous developer Wonyong Keum plans to turn the new spirit portal into an amusement park, potentially severing an already tumultuous connection with the spirits. At the city's edge, Zhu Li enlists everyone she can to aid the thousands of hungry and homeless evacuees who have relocated there. Meanwhile, the Triple Threats' ruthless new leader, Tokuga, is determined to unite the other triads under his rule, no matter the cost.

In order to get through it all, Korra and Asami vow to look out for each other--but first, they've got to get better at being a team!]]> 240 Michael Dante DiMartino 1506702023 Death 0 sapphic-speculative 4.35 2019
author: Michael Dante DiMartino
name: Death
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:

]]> 51477196
On the eve of its first elections, the Earth Kingdom’s future is endangered by its past. As Kuvira works to reclaim her honor, the devious commander Guan undermines the peace Avatar Korra has established to take power for himself. Korra and Kuvira must learn to work together to ensure the future of the Earth Kingdom.

Enjoy the continuing Avatar adventures, now with a new sketchbook section and artist commentary! Written by series co-creator Michael Dante DiMartino and drawn by Michelle Wong (Goosebumps: Download and Die), with consultation by Bryan Konietzko, this is the official continuation of the beloved television series!

Collects The Legend of Korra: Ruins of the Empire Part One, Two, and Three.]]> 240 Michael Dante DiMartino 1506708935 Death 0 sapphic-speculative 4.38 2020
author: Michael Dante DiMartino
name: Death
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:

]]> 33161035
A pompous developer plans to turn the new spirit portal into an amusement park, potentially severing an already tumultuous connection with the spirits. What's more, the triads have realigned and are in a brutal all-out brawl at the city's borders - where hundreds of evacuees have relocated!

In order to get through it all, Korra and Asami vow to look out for each other - but first, they've got to get better at being a team and a couple!

Written by series co-creator Michael Dante DiMartino and drawn by Irene Koh T.M.N.T., Sensation Comics featuring Wonder Woman, Secret Origins: Batgirl, Afrina and the Glass Coffin) and with consultation by Bryan Konietzko, this is the official continuation of The Legend of Korra!]]> 76 Michael Dante DiMartino 1506700152 Death 3 sapphic-speculative 4.32 2017
author: Michael Dante DiMartino
name: Death
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:

]]> 42104583 Korra must decide who to trust as the fate of the Earth Kingdom hangs in the balance!

On the eve of its first elections, the Earth Kingdom finds its future endangered by its past. Even as Kuvira stands trial for her crimes, vestiges of her imperial ambitions threaten to undermine the nation's democratic hopes. But when Korra, Asami, Mako, and Bolin don't all see eye-to-eye as to the solution, drastic measures will be taken to halt a new march to war!

Written by series co-creator Michael Dante DiMartino and drawn by Michelle Wong (Goosebumps: Download and Die), with consultation by Bryan Konietzko, this is the official continuation of the beloved television series!]]> 76 Michael Dante DiMartino 1506708943 Death 2 sapphic-speculative 4.38 2019
author: Michael Dante DiMartino
name: Death
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2019
rating: 2
read at:
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:

]]> 199797972 Hearts will race and anti-grav boots will fly in this scifi rom-com perfect for fans of WINTER'S ORBIT and THE RED SCHOLAR'S WAKE.

Ruth Johnson and her sister Jules have been small-time hustlers on the interstellar cruise lines for years. But then Jules fell in love with one of their targets, Esteban Mendez-Yuki, sole heir to the family insurance fortune. Esteban seemed to love her too, until she told him who she really was, at which point he fled without a word.

Now Ruth is set on disguised as provincial debutante Evelyn Ojukwu and set for the swanky satellite New Monte, she’s going to make Esteban fall in love with her, then break his heart and take half his fortune. At least, that's the plan. But Ruth hadn't accounted for his younger sister, Sol, a brilliant mind in a dashing suit... and much harder to fool.

Sol is hot on Ruth's tail, and as the two women learn each other’s tricks, Ruth must decide between going after the money and going after her heart.]]> 368 Rebecca Fraimow 1837861595 Death 4 sapphic-speculative
This was a really fun sci-fi romance with a lot of flair.

The world-building of this book was familiar with some fairly unique elements. It does involve a far future setting where humanity has become a space-faring civilization, but not one completely removed from current-day practices, prejudices and culture. In fact, capitalistic class issues have intensified so much in this future, that among the rich, some practices/culture of the Gilded Age have been reinstated. The aesthetics of that era, combined with science fiction aspects were not only window dressing but were integrated deftly into the plot.

The plot of this book was very charming with its fair share of quirky elements, but also had rather fun twists. You probably don't expect the transport of Kosher ducks and the like to be key to a science fiction book, so prepare to be surprised and amused.

The cast of characters were all flawed but well fleshed out. Ruth is such an entertaining protagonist and her push-and-pull relationship with Sol was just lovely. I really enjoyed the arc of their romance and how it played out. Even people with masks galore sometimes need someone to see them as they truly are. The familial dynamics were also interesting to read and had a lot of depth.

The ending of the book was somewhat open-ended and perhaps a little abrupt. The climax also could have been more heightened than it ended up being. It doesn't quite resolve every issue brought up. I am not sure whether that was to keep it open for a sequel or not, but either way, the book is still quite entertaining as it is.

Overall, Lady Eve's Last Con is a charming read with a lot of heart involving space travel, glitzy balls, daring rescues at the opera, space mobsters, class commentary, complicated cons, and a whole lot more. If stylistic science fiction or romance is your thing, I'd highly recommend picking this up.]]> 3.80 2024
author: Rebecca Fraimow
name: Death
average rating: 3.80
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/02
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was a really fun sci-fi romance with a lot of flair.

The world-building of this book was familiar with some fairly unique elements. It does involve a far future setting where humanity has become a space-faring civilization, but not one completely removed from current-day practices, prejudices and culture. In fact, capitalistic class issues have intensified so much in this future, that among the rich, some practices/culture of the Gilded Age have been reinstated. The aesthetics of that era, combined with science fiction aspects were not only window dressing but were integrated deftly into the plot.

The plot of this book was very charming with its fair share of quirky elements, but also had rather fun twists. You probably don't expect the transport of Kosher ducks and the like to be key to a science fiction book, so prepare to be surprised and amused.

The cast of characters were all flawed but well fleshed out. Ruth is such an entertaining protagonist and her push-and-pull relationship with Sol was just lovely. I really enjoyed the arc of their romance and how it played out. Even people with masks galore sometimes need someone to see them as they truly are. The familial dynamics were also interesting to read and had a lot of depth.

The ending of the book was somewhat open-ended and perhaps a little abrupt. The climax also could have been more heightened than it ended up being. It doesn't quite resolve every issue brought up. I am not sure whether that was to keep it open for a sequel or not, but either way, the book is still quite entertaining as it is.

Overall, Lady Eve's Last Con is a charming read with a lot of heart involving space travel, glitzy balls, daring rescues at the opera, space mobsters, class commentary, complicated cons, and a whole lot more. If stylistic science fiction or romance is your thing, I'd highly recommend picking this up.
]]> 193544852
Spirits are drawn to salt, be it blood or tears.

Roos Beckman has a spirit companion only she can see. Ruth—strange, corpse-like, and dead for centuries—is the light of Roos' life. That is, until the wealthy young widow Agnes Knoop visits one of Roos' backroom seances, and the two strike up a connection.

Soon, Roos is whisked away to the crumbling estate Agnes inherited upon the death of her husband, where an ill woman haunts the halls, strange smells drift through the air, and mysterious stone statues reside in the family chapel. Something dreadful festers in the manor, but still, the attraction between Roos and Agnes is undeniable.

Then, someone is murdered.

Poor, alone, and with a history of 'hysterics', Roos is the obvious culprit. With her sanity and innocence in question, she'll have to prove who—or what—is at fault or lose everything she holds dear.

"A Sapphic seance of preternatural proportions, My Darling Dreadful Thing summons a stunning new literary voice to be reckoned with. Johanna van Veen reaches beyond the veil to conjure up a gothic shocker like no other."—Clay McLeod Chapman, author of What Kind of Mother and Ghost Eaters

©2024 Johanna van Veen (P)2024 Tantor]]> 375 Johanna van Veen 1728281547 Death 5 sapphic-speculative
4.5/5

I am a sucker for horror and gothic stories, so this book was right up my alley.

If I had to describe this book, I would call it a mix between Bly Manor and especially Crimson Peak(both pieces of media I adore).

The narration is very atmospheric and melancholic, perfect for a gothic. It is told from the perspective of Roos recounting the events that lead to a death to Dr. Montague interspaced with the Doctor's notes and conversations with Roos. Due to the style of narration, there isn't a lot of suspense about what is going to happen as the book makes it clear early on, but focuses on the build-up to the how. The doctor's notes also provide a secondary non-supernatural explanation of the events that leave the reader wondering what really took place(though towards the end, the more "rational" explanation ends up with a lot more holes).

All the significant characters are explored through the lens of how abuse and trauma irrevocably affect people. All of the characters are flawed. There are a lot of difficult topics dealt with in this book(it is worth taking a look at the content warnings), but I felt they were dealt with with the sensitivity and care required.

As with any good gothic fiction, loneliness and isolation play a big role. It is perhaps the core of Roos as a character and the core of the love story the book surrounds.

Overall, My Darling Dreadful Thing is a great piece of gothic fiction exploring the effects of abuse and combining very classic gothic elements with an interesting perspective of scepticism. If you are a fan of stories like Crimson Peak or Bly Manor, I highly recommend picking this up.]]> 3.85 2024
author: Johanna van Veen
name: Death
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/03/24
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

4.5/5

I am a sucker for horror and gothic stories, so this book was right up my alley.

If I had to describe this book, I would call it a mix between Bly Manor and especially Crimson Peak(both pieces of media I adore).

The narration is very atmospheric and melancholic, perfect for a gothic. It is told from the perspective of Roos recounting the events that lead to a death to Dr. Montague interspaced with the Doctor's notes and conversations with Roos. Due to the style of narration, there isn't a lot of suspense about what is going to happen as the book makes it clear early on, but focuses on the build-up to the how. The doctor's notes also provide a secondary non-supernatural explanation of the events that leave the reader wondering what really took place(though towards the end, the more "rational" explanation ends up with a lot more holes).

All the significant characters are explored through the lens of how abuse and trauma irrevocably affect people. All of the characters are flawed. There are a lot of difficult topics dealt with in this book(it is worth taking a look at the content warnings), but I felt they were dealt with with the sensitivity and care required.

As with any good gothic fiction, loneliness and isolation play a big role. It is perhaps the core of Roos as a character and the core of the love story the book surrounds.

Overall, My Darling Dreadful Thing is a great piece of gothic fiction exploring the effects of abuse and combining very classic gothic elements with an interesting perspective of scepticism. If you are a fan of stories like Crimson Peak or Bly Manor, I highly recommend picking this up.
]]> 61264896 A Best Science Fiction & Fantasy Editors' Pick for Amazon

For fans who have always wanted their Twin Peaks to have some wizards, The Warden is a non-stop action adventure story from author Daniel M. Ford.

There was a plan.

She had the money, the connections, even the brains. It was become one of the only female necromancers, earn as many degrees as possible, get a post in one of the grand cities, then prove she’s capable of greatness. The funny thing about plans is that they are seldom under your control.

Now Aelis de Lenti, a daughter of a noble house and recent graduate of the esteemed Magisters� Lyceum, finds herself in the far-removed village of Lone Pine. Mending fences, matching wits with goats, and serving people who want nothing to do with her. But, not all is well in Lone Pine, and as the villagers Aelis is reluctantly getting to know start to behave strangely, Aelis begins to suspect that there is far greater need for a Warden of her talents than she previously thought.

Old magics are restless, and an insignificant village on the farthest border of the kingdom might hold secrets far beyond what anyone expected. Aelis might be the only person standing between one of the greatest evils ever known and the rest of the world.

At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.]]> 384 Daniel M. Ford 1250815665 Death 3 sapphic-speculative 4.09 2023
author: Daniel M. Ford
name: Death
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2024/02/20
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:

]]> 200987229 In her breathtaking debut—part space odyssey, part sapphic rom-com—Emily Hamilton tells a tale of galaxy-spanning friendship, improbable love, and found family.

So, here’s the thing: Cleo and her friends really, truly didn’t mean to steal this spaceship. They just wanted to know why, twenty years ago, the entire Providence crew vanished without a trace, but then the stupid dark-matter engine started on its own. Now these four twenty-somethings are en route to Proxima Centauri and unable to turn around while being harangued by a hologram that has the face and snide attitude of the ship’s missing captain, Billie.

Cleo has dreamt of being an astronaut all her life, and Earth is a lost cause at this point, so this should be one of those blessings in disguise that people talk about. But as the ship travels deeper into space, the laws of physics start twisting; old mysteries come crawling back to life; and Cleo’s initially combative relationship with Billie turns into something deeper and more desperate than either woman was prepared for.]]> 336 Emily Hamilton 0063320819 Death 3 sapphic-speculative
3.25/5

This was a fun and fairly ambitious read.

I will get my issues out of the way first, as they may be more of me problems and not something that will bother most people.

First and foremost, the science in this book is really bad, which is to be expected of science fantasy, but I am not talking about the fantasy parts. I like science fiction and can usually get behind the ridiculous science in the name of immersion, but the trick to that requires keeping explanations vague and in the made-up territory. However, the "scientist" protagonists of this book often try to explain things and make references to real-life scientific principles and methods that are wrong on so many levels. The book gets rudimentary physics wrong, (and biology and chemistry and what the divisions of engineering involve) which pulls the biochemist part of me out of the story every time. The fact that the book is supposed to be near future doesn't help with this.

The second issue was that the tone of the book was a little too twee for me. I recognise that might work really well for some people, but for me, it was a bit much.

These two issues aside, this book was mostly in line with what I wanted to read right now, which was light science fiction. Light science fiction(well, fantasy) describes this book perfectly. It's an easy-to-read space adventure with likeable characters, found family vibes, and quite a unique romance. The romance brings up some very interesting questions(the answers aren't necessarily the most satisfying, but interesting nonetheless) and is definitely one that would get you invested.

As I have mentioned before, the tone can be a bit too twee, but the plot was still pretty ambitious and fun. It had some fun twists and narrational choices made for a cool literary device.

Overall, The Stars Too Fondly is a fun, ambitious multidimensional adventure as well as a love story. If easy to read sci-fi adventure/romance with generous helpings of millennial humour sounds like your jam, then I recommend picking this up(as long as you can deal with inaccurate scientific references).]]> 3.70 2024
author: Emily Hamilton
name: Death
average rating: 3.70
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/01/17
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

3.25/5

This was a fun and fairly ambitious read.

I will get my issues out of the way first, as they may be more of me problems and not something that will bother most people.

First and foremost, the science in this book is really bad, which is to be expected of science fantasy, but I am not talking about the fantasy parts. I like science fiction and can usually get behind the ridiculous science in the name of immersion, but the trick to that requires keeping explanations vague and in the made-up territory. However, the "scientist" protagonists of this book often try to explain things and make references to real-life scientific principles and methods that are wrong on so many levels. The book gets rudimentary physics wrong, (and biology and chemistry and what the divisions of engineering involve) which pulls the biochemist part of me out of the story every time. The fact that the book is supposed to be near future doesn't help with this.

The second issue was that the tone of the book was a little too twee for me. I recognise that might work really well for some people, but for me, it was a bit much.

These two issues aside, this book was mostly in line with what I wanted to read right now, which was light science fiction. Light science fiction(well, fantasy) describes this book perfectly. It's an easy-to-read space adventure with likeable characters, found family vibes, and quite a unique romance. The romance brings up some very interesting questions(the answers aren't necessarily the most satisfying, but interesting nonetheless) and is definitely one that would get you invested.

As I have mentioned before, the tone can be a bit too twee, but the plot was still pretty ambitious and fun. It had some fun twists and narrational choices made for a cool literary device.

Overall, The Stars Too Fondly is a fun, ambitious multidimensional adventure as well as a love story. If easy to read sci-fi adventure/romance with generous helpings of millennial humour sounds like your jam, then I recommend picking this up(as long as you can deal with inaccurate scientific references).
]]> 157981739
When a fatal mistake leads to Yeeran’s exile from the Elven lands, they are both forced into the terrifying wilderness beyond their borders. There they encounter the the fae court.

The fae haven’t been seen for a millennium. But now Yeeran and Lettle are thrust into their seductive world � torn between their loyalty to each other, their elven homeland, and their hearts. . .]]> 386 Saara El-Arifi 0593723007 Death 3 sapphic-speculative
I am a big fan of The Ending Fire trilogy, so I was pretty curious about Saara El-Arifi's new book. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this nearly as much as I enjoyed The Final Strife. It's still a solid book for what it's trying to be, but my expectations might have been too high.

I'll start with the good in my opinion. El-Arifi's world-building remains as strong and imaginative as ever. While the world of Faebound isn't like that of The Ending Fire books, it's still very imaginative and interesting. Mosima in particular, was a really cool setting and the themes it instills into the story are fascinating. The African inspirations make it quite unique as well. The magic system is also very interesting. Like The Ending Fire books, this book also has queernormative world-building and a diverse range of characters. I also really liked the Obeah and how the bond worked.

The overarching themes of this book are also interesting, as it discusses notions of war, power, duty, family, freedom, violence, and free will.

I was aware beforehand that this would be a romantasy story, which is fine, but in being so romance-forward, I think the author foregoes her biggest strength, which is plotting. Honestly, even considering it simply from the romance angle, I didn't buy the romantic development of either the f/f or the f/m romance. Both felt very insta lust-y and the romantic developments didn't feel very natural. There were plenty of obstacles in the relationships, but at some point in the story, they didn't matter anymore for reasons I guess? I was never very invested in Rayan and Lettle's relationship, and although Yeeran and Furi's dynamic seemed quite interesting at the start, the development wasn't executed very well. At some point, they were all suddenly in love, but I wasn't really sure how. The book tries to portray Salawa and Yeeran's relationship as being not really love, however, that relationship felt far more believable.

The plotting is not only hindered by the romances(and it is as the characters spend a lot of time pining and rarely moving the plot forward) but also the framing. The story has a heavy reliance on prophecy and that along with the descriptions very clearly telegraphs the story beats and plot twists from a mile away, and makes the whole thing very predictable. The protagonists, Lettle in particular, just feel like observers for most of the story watching things happening around them because of prophecies. Lettle eventually gives up her whole purpose for love, which made me really question if she needed a POV at all. Given how strong the plotting and twists of The Ending Fire trilogy are, the plotting of this book really disappointed me.

At the end of the day though, this is a romantasy book. Romantasy books aren't usually known for their plotting, though there are exceptions. From that angle, it's an overall solid package with a lot of aspects that make it unique in the romantasy space. And perhaps there are readers who would appreciate the romances and romance forward nature of this more than I did.

The book does end on an interesting note plotwise. While reading the book, I was not aware it was the start of a new trilogy. I didn't think it had quite enough to it to be a trilogy, but I suppose we shall see if I continue with the series. I am not sure whether I will or not yet.]]> 3.53 2024
author: Saara El-Arifi
name: Death
average rating: 3.53
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at: 2024/01/07
date added: 2024/04/16
shelves: sapphic-speculative
review:
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I am a big fan of The Ending Fire trilogy, so I was pretty curious about Saara El-Arifi's new book. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this nearly as much as I enjoyed The Final Strife. It's still a solid book for what it's trying to be, but my expectations might have been too high.

I'll start with the good in my opinion. El-Arifi's world-building remains as strong and imaginative as ever. While the world of Faebound isn't like that of The Ending Fire books, it's still very imaginative and interesting. Mosima in particular, was a really cool setting and the themes it instills into the story are fascinating. The African inspirations make it quite unique as well. The magic system is also very interesting. Like The Ending Fire books, this book also has queernormative world-building and a diverse range of characters. I also really liked the Obeah and how the bond worked.

The overarching themes of this book are also interesting, as it discusses notions of war, power, duty, family, freedom, violence, and free will.

I was aware beforehand that this would be a romantasy story, which is fine, but in being so romance-forward, I think the author foregoes her biggest strength, which is plotting. Honestly, even considering it simply from the romance angle, I didn't buy the romantic development of either the f/f or the f/m romance. Both felt very insta lust-y and the romantic developments didn't feel very natural. There were plenty of obstacles in the relationships, but at some point in the story, they didn't matter anymore for reasons I guess? I was never very invested in Rayan and Lettle's relationship, and although Yeeran and Furi's dynamic seemed quite interesting at the start, the development wasn't executed very well. At some point, they were all suddenly in love, but I wasn't really sure how. The book tries to portray Salawa and Yeeran's relationship as being not really love, however, that relationship felt far more believable.

The plotting is not only hindered by the romances(and it is as the characters spend a lot of time pining and rarely moving the plot forward) but also the framing. The story has a heavy reliance on prophecy and that along with the descriptions very clearly telegraphs the story beats and plot twists from a mile away, and makes the whole thing very predictable. The protagonists, Lettle in particular, just feel like observers for most of the story watching things happening around them because of prophecies. Lettle eventually gives up her whole purpose for love, which made me really question if she needed a POV at all. Given how strong the plotting and twists of The Ending Fire trilogy are, the plotting of this book really disappointed me.

At the end of the day though, this is a romantasy book. Romantasy books aren't usually known for their plotting, though there are exceptions. From that angle, it's an overall solid package with a lot of aspects that make it unique in the romantasy space. And perhaps there are readers who would appreciate the romances and romance forward nature of this more than I did.

The book does end on an interesting note plotwise. While reading the book, I was not aware it was the start of a new trilogy. I didn't think it had quite enough to it to be a trilogy, but I suppose we shall see if I continue with the series. I am not sure whether I will or not yet.
]]>