en-US Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:46:19 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg 212173742 The stunning sequel to Talonsister, full of romance and treachery, powerful magic and devastating choices. Perfect for fans of Andrea Stewart, John Gwynn and Samantha Shannon.

The Othanim have conquered Brittletain. Their murderous leader, Icaraine, plans to feed Brittletain's queens to her monstrous son. But total victory over the othanim's ancient enemy, the griffins, still eludes her. If Brittletain's resistance can secure an alliance with the griffins, they may still stand a chance of defeating the othanim.

Envoy Kaeto has returned to the Imperium, hiding Felldir and Belise in a ruined castle. He believes both his friends and his attempt to murder Gynid Tyleigh have escaped the Empress's notice. Yet secrets are not so easy to keep in the Imperium. Kaeto will do anything to protect Felldir and Belise � and so finds himself en route to Brittletain as ambassador to the Othanim.

Leven, Cillian, and Ynis have spent the last two years tracking Ynis's griffin sister, T'rook, a prisoner of Gynid Tyleigh. But Ynis has secondary motives for pursuing Tyleigh. Meanwhile, Leven's health is deteriorating, and Cillian � exiled and disgraced � is tormented by strange voices, who tell him of the return of the mythic Green Man to Brittletain.

There is no hope for humanity in a world ruled by Icaraine. But the price of defeating her might be almost too heavy to bear.]]> 557 Jen Williams 1803364394 L.L. 4
There is so much magic, mythology, and lore, in this world, and I’d hoped we would have been able to learn more (e.g. the Empress and her doll) but some mysteries are left unsolved to keep the wonder of it all.

This book, while clearly epic fantasy, almost strays into horror at times. There’s a lot of dark fantasy things happening, but there are graphic deaths, body horror changes, and more that really skirt the line if you’re squeamish!

As the final book, there is war, there are battles being fought both overtly and covertly, and our characters are pushed to the brink of their limits and beyond. The world building remains deliciously vivid, and Williams� writing is an absolute joy.

Leven really grew in my estimation, as did Belise. The griffins remained fantastic, and I was so glad we were able to spend a bit more time with them in the sequel.

I love the focus on folklore, things being more than what they seem, and the human connection between us all.

Great duology!]]> 4.32 2024
author: Jen Williams
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/29
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves:
review:
The second book of this duology is pretty much non-stop action. I hadn’t realised there would be a two year time jump after the end of book one, and there are a great deal of changes that have since happened. While we slowly get to understand what happened (including a marriage!?) others are left open-ended.

There is so much magic, mythology, and lore, in this world, and I’d hoped we would have been able to learn more (e.g. the Empress and her doll) but some mysteries are left unsolved to keep the wonder of it all.

This book, while clearly epic fantasy, almost strays into horror at times. There’s a lot of dark fantasy things happening, but there are graphic deaths, body horror changes, and more that really skirt the line if you’re squeamish!

As the final book, there is war, there are battles being fought both overtly and covertly, and our characters are pushed to the brink of their limits and beyond. The world building remains deliciously vivid, and Williams� writing is an absolute joy.

Leven really grew in my estimation, as did Belise. The griffins remained fantastic, and I was so glad we were able to spend a bit more time with them in the sequel.

I love the focus on folklore, things being more than what they seem, and the human connection between us all.

Great duology!
]]> 137317277
But when the attack goes horribly wrong, Frey suddenly finds himself the most wanted man in Vardia, trailed by bounty hunters, the elite Century Knights, and the dread queen of the skies, Trinica Dracken. Frey realizes that they’ve been set up to take a fall but doesn’t know the endgame. And the ultimate answer for captain and crew may lie in the legendary hidden pirate town of Retribution Falls. That’s if they can get there without getting blown out of the sky.]]> 0 Chris Wooding L.L. 0 currently-reading 5.00 2009
author: Chris Wooding
name: L.L.
average rating: 5.00
book published: 2009
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/29
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 223008147 “Sky pirates, gunslingers, mythic knights, & treasure maps. This book has everything I’ve ever wanted in an epic future fantasy, all wrapped up in one stunning, action-packed debut.�

Captain Grey and his crew of sky pirates have a reputation for doing the impossible. From breaking into high-security military research facilities to conning the iCity elite—there isn’t a lock they can’t pick, a safe they can’t break, or a hidden treasure they can’t find. Until now.

Returning from a harrowing heist involving a neon battery and a trash chute, Grey and his crew are approached by Dalia, the immortal daughter of the infamous ArchGovernor—and she has an offer.

The job? Locate and steal the Stones of Indigo—seven fabled rocks invested with godlike power. The search for the first stone is a bona fide treasure hunt, guided by an ancient map to a deadly, uncharted island that’s protected by a mysterious guardian. The score? One million credits per crew member, per stone. The catch? Well, that’s where things get a little complicated.

The stones don’t exist. They’re a myth. A bedtime story told to little pirates to make them believe that power and wealth are attainable if you just work hard enough.

And to make matters infinitely worse, Grey’s never trusted immortals, and Dalia’s definitely hiding something. Something bad. And if they don’t figure out what it is, it might cost them their lives.

ONE CREW OF SKY PIRATES
SEVEN MYTHOLOGICAL STONES
A RACE TO FIND THEM ALL]]> 588 Maurice Africh L.L. 0 to-read 4.33
author: Maurice Africh
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.33
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 58988696
With no choice but to obey or be executed, Loulie journeys with the sultan’s oldest son to find the artifact. Aided by her bodyguard, who has secrets of his own, they must survive ghoul attacks, outwit a vengeful jinn queen, and confront a malicious killer from Loulie’s past. And, in a world where story is reality and illusion is truth, Loulie will discover that everything—her enemy, her magic, even her own past—is not what it seems, and she must decide who she will become in this new reality.

Inspired by stories from One Thousand and One Nights,ĚýThe Stardust Thief weaves the gripping tale of a legendary smuggler, a cowardly prince, and a dangerous quest across the desert to find a legendary, magical lamp.]]> 468 Chelsea Abdullah 0316368962 L.L. 0 currently-reading 4.13 2022
author: Chelsea Abdullah
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 219205
Yet the Land tempted him. He had been sick; now he seemed better than ever before. Through no fault of his own, he had been outcast, unclean, a pariah. Now he was regarded as a reincarnation of the Land's greatest hero--Berek Halfhand--armed with the mystic power of White Gold. That power alone could protect the Lords of the Land from the ancient evil of Despiser, Lord Foul. Only...Covenant had no idea of how the power could be used!

Thus begins one of the most remarkable epic fantasies ever written...]]> 480 Stephen R. Donaldson 0345348656 L.L. 0 to-read 3.72 1977
author: Stephen R. Donaldson
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.72
book published: 1977
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/22
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 42267952
When a very unusual mage does choose him as apprentice, however, his life starts to take a sharp turn for the better. Now all he has to worry about is the final test for the first years - being sent into the terrifying labyrinth below Skyhold.]]> 216 John Bierce L.L. 0 to-read 4.18 2018
author: John Bierce
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 221198501 History doesn’t care what they want, unfortunately, and it’s fallen right into their laps in the shape of a godslaying weapon from a fallen civilization. Thrown together out of chance, Thea and Aven will have to learn to work together if they want to survive their pursuers.
Because if they fail, and the weapon falls into the wrong hands? The results won’t be pretty. No one’s going to be using it on some random street corner goddess, teakettle god, or any of the other countless teeming millions of divinities on Ishveos.
No, there’s one target that sits above all others.
Cambrias, Whose Watch Never Ends. Cambrias, whose power has given rise to Cambrias� Wall, the greatest city in the known multiverse- a city that has already covered much of a continent, and is strip mining entire mountain ranges for space and building material. A city that threatens to spread across the entire surface of Ishveos.
And there’s no shortage of folks willing to kill Thea and Aven in order to stop the Wall, no matter the consequences.]]> 451 John Bierce L.L. 0 to-read 4.61
author: John Bierce
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.61
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 37570595
These stories explore urgent instances of racism and cultural unrest, and the ways we fight for humanity in an unforgiving world. In “The Finkelstein Five,� Adjei-Brenyah reckons with the brutal prejudice of our justice system. In “Zimmer Land,� we see a far-too-easy-to-believe imagining of racism as sport. And “Friday Black� and “How to Sell a Jacket as Told by IceKing� show the horrors of consumerism and the toll it takes on us all.

Entirely fresh in its style and perspective, and sure to appeal to fans of Colson Whitehead, Marlon James, and George Saunders, Friday Black confronts readers with a complicated, insistent, wrenching chorus of emotions, the final note of which, remarkably, is hope.]]> 194 Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah 1328911241 L.L. 0 to-read 4.06 2018
author: Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/17
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 18303071
At home on Earth, Caine is Hari Michaelson, a superstar whose adventures in Ankhana command an audience of billions. Yet he is shackled by a rigid caste society, bound to ignore the grim fact that he kills men on a far-off world for the entertainment of his own planet - and bound to keep his rage in check.

But now Michaelson has crossed the line. His estranged wife, Pallas Rill, has mysteriously disappeared in the slums of Ankhana. To save her, he must confront the greatest challenge of his life: a lethal game of cat and mouse with the most treacherous rulers of two worlds.]]> 384 Matthew Woodring Stover 1405525649 L.L. 0 to-read 3.98 1998
author: Matthew Woodring Stover
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.98
book published: 1998
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 228527539 Mission Impossible), Michael Chiklis (Fantastic Four, The Shield), Aldis Hodge (Justice League), Greta Lee (Russian Doll, Past Lives), Jimmi Simpson (Dark Matter, Westworld), and a full cast. A riveting listen perfect for fans of World War Z and Sleeping Giants.

Compiled by intrepid journalist Neve Pride, this archive of recordings spans the months after dragons emerged on earth, chronicling the communities that sprang up amid the destruction, the scientists, military leaders, and experts searching for a defense, and those steadfastly seeking the missing. Neve and her young daughter Bex travel among the wreckage speaking to those left behind and surviving, against all odds. Neve records everything for history, and in the hopes of locating a clue as to where the dragons came from and how one might stop them. When the defense strategy hits on a breakthrough at the same time Neve receives a lead regarding her missing son, she finds herself torn between what is personal to her and what is necessary for mankind’s hope.

Full cast of narrators Richard Tatum, Chioke I’Anson, Gail Shalan, Rez Kempton, Judy Gold, Piper Goodeve, Gregory Connors.

Available in Dolby Atmos on Audible.]]> Bob Proehl L.L. 3
It’s an interestingly told story, just through a collection of recordings, in the days, weeks, and months following “D-Day� when dragons suddenly appeared and laid waste to the world in a terrifying apocalypse.

There are a great many characters who appear, some of whom have recurring roles, and our protagonist is the journalist, Neve Pride, who wasn’t a particularly likeable character based on her behaviour with her children and husband. However, she is tenacious in obtaining as many stories as possible and cataloguing the information she can - first as a sort of history, and second as a way to look for a way to stop the dragons.

Many stories are harrowing and dark, but there is often hope.

Overall it was a short read, with some interesting sections, but my enjoyment never raised much past “pretty interested because dragons� although it was nice to see some easter egg nods to dragon glass and fantasy books - although these might be a bit too meta for some.

With a full cast of narrators, the audiobook production is fantastic, and made the world feel alive and rich!]]> 3.74
author: Bob Proehl
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.74
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2025/04/14
date added: 2025/04/14
shelves:
review:
A more modern Reign of Fire/World War Z, with a bit of How To Train Your Dragon thrown in at the second half.

It’s an interestingly told story, just through a collection of recordings, in the days, weeks, and months following “D-Day� when dragons suddenly appeared and laid waste to the world in a terrifying apocalypse.

There are a great many characters who appear, some of whom have recurring roles, and our protagonist is the journalist, Neve Pride, who wasn’t a particularly likeable character based on her behaviour with her children and husband. However, she is tenacious in obtaining as many stories as possible and cataloguing the information she can - first as a sort of history, and second as a way to look for a way to stop the dragons.

Many stories are harrowing and dark, but there is often hope.

Overall it was a short read, with some interesting sections, but my enjoyment never raised much past “pretty interested because dragons� although it was nice to see some easter egg nods to dragon glass and fantasy books - although these might be a bit too meta for some.

With a full cast of narrators, the audiobook production is fantastic, and made the world feel alive and rich!
]]> 212078448 The brilliant detective Ana Dolabra may have finally met her match in the gripping sequel to The Tainted Cup—from the bestselling author of The Founders Trilogy.

In the canton of Yarrowdale, at the very edge of the Empire’s reach, an impossible crime has occurred. A Treasury officer has disappeared into thin air—abducted from his quarters while the door and windows remained locked from the inside, in a building whose entrances and exits are all under constant guard.

To solve the case, the Empire calls on its most brilliant and mercurial investigator, the great Ana Dolabra. At her side, as always, is her bemused assistant Dinios Kol.

Before long, Ana’s discovered that they’re not investigating a disappearance, but a murder—and that the killing was just the first chess move by an adversary who seems to be able to pass through warded doors like a ghost, and who can predict every one of Ana’s moves as though they can see the future.

Worse still, the killer seems to be targeting the high-security compound known as the Shroud. Here, the Empire's greatest minds dissect fallen Titans to harness the volatile magic found in their blood. Should it fall, the destruction would be terrible indeed—and the Empire itself will grind to a halt, robbed of the magic that allows its wheels of power to turn.

Din has seen Ana solve impossible cases before. But this time, with the stakes higher than ever and Ana seemingly a step behind their adversary at every turn, he fears that his superior has finally met an enemy she can’t defeat.]]> 432 Robert Jackson Bennett 1399725424 L.L. 0 to-read 4.59 2025
author: Robert Jackson Bennett
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.59
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 219851876 "The differences between worlds -- they're like two tapestries, one made of silk and the other of wool. But this door is a needle that sends me between them, and I'm what stitches them together."

A future where memory is currency; a land of dinosaurs seeking the refuge of outer space; a city where events in the present can change the past; a family of colonists escaping grief on a distant planet; a dragon breathing fire on the bourgeoisie; an astronaut craving the power of flight.

Across the many Earths, change is the only constant. Every new tomorrow is a new beginning, whether you’re a superhero trying to hide your power from your boss, or an alien invasion has made you the richest person in the universe. Collected in this short story omnibus from Frasier Armitage are a catalogue of beginnings that stretch beyond the seams of our world. Step through a door to this unique multiverse of science fiction and fantasy in the first volume of short stories from the acclaimed author of New Yesterday and Time’s Ellipse, and travel to places that are only bound together by A Stitch Between Worlds.]]> 309 Frasier Armitage L.L. 5
I don’t think I’ve ever come across so many stories where the openings were SO strong and gripping. Absolutely masterfully written.

Frasier Armitage displays an incredible talent across a breadth of diverse tales, from full on fantasy to cyberpunk to modern to sci-fi, and all the flavours in between. The sheer variety of writing styles and sub-genres is astonishing, and every single style was incredibly well-written.

Unlike many collections, where the stories revolve around a similar theme and that’s it, this is such an intentional anthology that really lives up to its title.

The concepts of each story were incredibly unique, and typically followed the path less travelled. We had a plethora of different protagonists (not all of whom were likeable) trying to do their best in their respective worlds.

The stunning concluding story brought everything together in an incredibly satisfying (and unexpected!) way, that kept me turning the pages long after I needed to go to sleep.

I enjoyed every story to one degree or another, but my favourite was definitely POSTCARDS FROM ANOTHER WORLD. Such a brilliant concept that was executed flawlessly. So much emotion!

Highly recommend if you want a palette cleanser between other reads, and want to dip your toe into several brilliant short stories!]]> 4.80
author: Frasier Armitage
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.80
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/13
date added: 2025/04/13
shelves:
review:
What a fantastic collection of stories this was!

I don’t think I’ve ever come across so many stories where the openings were SO strong and gripping. Absolutely masterfully written.

Frasier Armitage displays an incredible talent across a breadth of diverse tales, from full on fantasy to cyberpunk to modern to sci-fi, and all the flavours in between. The sheer variety of writing styles and sub-genres is astonishing, and every single style was incredibly well-written.

Unlike many collections, where the stories revolve around a similar theme and that’s it, this is such an intentional anthology that really lives up to its title.

The concepts of each story were incredibly unique, and typically followed the path less travelled. We had a plethora of different protagonists (not all of whom were likeable) trying to do their best in their respective worlds.

The stunning concluding story brought everything together in an incredibly satisfying (and unexpected!) way, that kept me turning the pages long after I needed to go to sleep.

I enjoyed every story to one degree or another, but my favourite was definitely POSTCARDS FROM ANOTHER WORLD. Such a brilliant concept that was executed flawlessly. So much emotion!

Highly recommend if you want a palette cleanser between other reads, and want to dip your toe into several brilliant short stories!
]]> 86029840
Quen Santu works for her father tanning hides, waiting for her tides to turn. Everyone she grew up with has already committed to a herdclan. But Quen was born cursed with a second, shadow soul. Sensing the oddity within, animals run from her—an untenable trait in a herding culture. On the cusp of her twentieth year, Quen is at risk of becoming pesha —no one.

Then, a dragon kills her father. The murder turns Quen’s life upside down and dashes her hope for an honorable life. As her anger grows, so does her untapped power. Fueled by a quest for vengeance, she joins a vigilante group of rogues hunting the beast. But her journey soon reveals a terrible truth: beyond the safety of her desert village, she has caught the attention of dangerous eyes. And now, she has become the hunted.

At the end of her journey, Quen’s fate will be sealed. Can Quen overcome her curse and unite her warring souls? Or will her shadow soul consume her—and everyone she loves?

The fate of her homeland—and all she loves—hangs in the balance.]]> 484 Natalie Wright L.L. 0 to-read 4.15
author: Natalie Wright
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.15
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 202251782
In the Nine Lands, only those of noble blood can summon the spirits of their ancestors to fight in battle. But when Temi, a commoner from the slums, accidentally invokes a powerful spirit, she finds it could hold the key to ending a centuries-long war. But not everything that can be invoked is an ancestor. And some of the spirits that can be drawn from the ancestral realm are more dangerous than anyone can imagine.]]> 640 M.H. Ayinde 0356525309 L.L. 0 to-read 4.11 2025
author: M.H. Ayinde
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 195791340
It’s that, or end up like countless knights before her, as a puddle of gore and molten armor.

Maddileh is a knight. There aren’t many women in her line of work, and it often feels like the sneering and contempt from her peers is harder to stomach than the actual dragon slaying. But she’s a knight, and made of sterner stuff.

A minor infraction forces her to redeem her honor in the most dramatic way possible, she must retrieve the fabled Fireborne Blade from its keeper, legendary dragon the White Lady, or die trying. If history tells us anything, it's that “die trying� is where to wager your coin.

Maddileh’s tale contains a rich history of dragons, ill-fated knights, scheming squires, and sapphic love, with deceptions and double-crosses that will keep you guessing right up to its dramatic conclusion. Ultimately, The Fireborne Blade is about the roles we refuse to accept, and of the place we make for ourselves in the world.]]> 168 Charlotte Bond 1250290317 L.L. 0 to-read 3.75 2024
author: Charlotte Bond
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 33395557
Bob and his copies have been spreading out from Earth for 40 years now, looking for habitable planets. But that's the only part of the plan that's still in one piece. A system-wide war has killed off 99.9 percent of the human race; nuclear winter is slowly making the Earth uninhabitable; a radical group wants to finish the job on the remnants of humanity; the Brazilian space probes are still out there, still trying to blow up the competition; and the Bobs have discovered a spacefaring species that sees all other life as food.

Bob left Earth anticipating a life of exploration and blissful solitude. Instead he's become a sky god to a primitive native species, the only hope for getting humanity to a new home, and possibly the only thing that can prevent every living thing in the local sphere from ending up as dinner.]]> 311 Dennis E. Taylor L.L. 4
It’s far more than survival of humanity. Immortality isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, and there are some huge differences between the original Bob (and the first few copies) compared to the newer ones. Emotional attachments grow. Tensions build. And technology has to keep it all together.

A fun read!]]> 4.37 2017
author: Dennis E. Taylor
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/10
date added: 2025/04/10
shelves:
review:
Returning to the Bobiverse was a lot of fun! It sets off at a blistering pace and doesn’t stop until the very end. Makes sense considering there are several light years� worth of travel between principle characters. The sequel takes place almost immediately after the end of book one, and everything is scaled up massively. There are more Bobs (replicants? AIs? Something else?), with their own slightly shifted personalities, there are planets to discover and races to protect, and a big bad “Other� that is nipping at our heels on the edge of the picture.

It’s far more than survival of humanity. Immortality isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, and there are some huge differences between the original Bob (and the first few copies) compared to the newer ones. Emotional attachments grow. Tensions build. And technology has to keep it all together.

A fun read!
]]> 231014065
She goes on the hunt when the law doesn’t want to get its hands dirty.

Born and bred in the harsh northern winters, Hunter collects bounties on thieves and murderers for a handful of coin, dragging Rip, her animated corpse, behind her. Trust wears thin in the wild Territories, and the law doesn’t always land on the side of justice. Or the side of a necromancer.
Shadowed by the influence of a wealthy Shadesilver baron, Hunter takes on one last job. But instead of an easy payday, Hunter finds something she never expected, something that will tear open old wounds and set her on a path to find justice� for someone else.]]> 286 Tori Tecken 1937363074 L.L. 0 to-read 4.75
author: Tori Tecken
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.75
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 31702733
Born without the sorcery that is her birthright but with a perspicacious intellect, Isabelle believes her marriage will stave off disastrous conflict and bring her opportunity and influence. But the last two women betrothed to this prince were murdered, and a sorcerer-assassin is bent on making Isabelle the third. Aided and defended by her loyal musketeer, Jean-Claude, Isabelle plunges into a great maze of prophecy, intrigue, and betrayal, where everyone wears masks of glamour and lies. Step by dangerous step, she unravels the lies of her enemies and discovers a truth more perilous than any deception.]]> 416 Curtis Craddock 0765389592 L.L. 4
It’s pretty fast-paced, with some very unique world building (and magic), as well as disability rep. The characters are all pretty clever (there is of course the possibility to be fooled), which makes sense given the very heavy politics that are weaved throughout.

Some of the thought and treatment of women is dated (although expected as part of this world? e.g. women shouldn’t read or study, and there’s a significant plot thread regarding somewhat forced motherhood), but the creativity and uniqueness make this book shine.

Isabelle is an unhallowed noble, who has a pretty awful life under her father’s rule. Jean-Claude is a musketeer in whose care Isabelle resides. There are plots abound from each of the nations, temple artifixes, sky ships, changelings, royalty, and all manner of mechanical and alchemical creations that keep the world running.

Very interesting and fun read!]]> 4.06 2017
author: Curtis Craddock
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/05
date added: 2025/04/06
shelves:
review:
This was a fun gaslight/flintlock adventure, highly influenced by France and Spain. It’s set in an entirely floating world, with different magics from the descendants of Risen Saints, clockwork metals, and a great cast of characters.

It’s pretty fast-paced, with some very unique world building (and magic), as well as disability rep. The characters are all pretty clever (there is of course the possibility to be fooled), which makes sense given the very heavy politics that are weaved throughout.

Some of the thought and treatment of women is dated (although expected as part of this world? e.g. women shouldn’t read or study, and there’s a significant plot thread regarding somewhat forced motherhood), but the creativity and uniqueness make this book shine.

Isabelle is an unhallowed noble, who has a pretty awful life under her father’s rule. Jean-Claude is a musketeer in whose care Isabelle resides. There are plots abound from each of the nations, temple artifixes, sky ships, changelings, royalty, and all manner of mechanical and alchemical creations that keep the world running.

Very interesting and fun read!
]]> 39863266 "A gripping tale of a woman who refuses to be defined by her physical and magical limitations, thwarting both assassins and all who see her as a pawn. A great read!" -- Brandon Sanderson, on Curtis Craddock's An Alchemy of Masques and Mirrors

A Labyrinth of Scions and Sorcery is the masterful sequel to Curtis Craddock's critically-acclaimed high fantasy An Alchemy of Masques and Mirrors, which continues the engrossing tale of courtly intrigue and breathtaking magic, and starring our fiercely intelligent heroine Isabelle des Zephyrs with her loyal musketeer Jean-Claude.

Isabelle des Zephyrs has always been underestimated throughout her life, but after discovering the well of hidden magic within her, unveiling a centuries-long conspiracy, and stopping a war between rival nations, she has gained a newfound respect amongst the cutthroat court.

All that is quickly taken away when Isabelle is unfairly convicted of breaking the treaty she helped write and has her political rank and status taken away. Now bereft, she nevertheless finds herself drawn into mystery when her faithful musketeer Jean-Claude uncovers a series of gruesome murders by someone calling themselves the Harvest King.

As panic swells, the capital descends into chaos, when the emperor is usurped from the throne by a rival noble. Betrayed by their allies and hunted by assassins, Isabelle and Jean-Claude alone must thwart the coup, but not before it changes l'Empire forever.

The Risen Kingdom series
#1: An Alchemy of Masques and Mirrors]]> 416 Curtis Craddock 0765389622 L.L. 0 to-read 4.18 2019
author: Curtis Craddock
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 45046548 The Three Musketeers meets Jules Verne in Curtis Craddock's concluding novel in the critically-acclaimed high fantasy Risen Kingdoms series, an engrossing tale of courtly intrigue and breathtaking magic.

Isabelle and Jean-Claude undertake an airship expedition to recover a fabled treasure and claim a hitherto undiscovered craton for l'Empire Celeste. But Isabelle, as a result from a previous attack that tried to subsume her body and soul, suffers from increasingly disturbing and disruptive hallucinations. Disasters are compounded when the ship is sabotaged by an enemy agent, and Jean-Claude is seperated from the expedition.

In a race against time, Isabelle must figure out how to ward off her ailment before it destroys her and reunite with Jean-Claude to seek the fabled treasure as ancient secrets and a royal conspiracry threaten to undo the entire realm.

"A gripping tale of a woman who refuses to be defined by her physical and magical limitations, thwarting both assassins and all who see her as a pawn. A great read!"--#1 New York Times bestselling author Brandon Sanderson, on An Alchemy of Masques and Mirrors

The Risen Kingdom series
#1 An Alchemy of Masques and Mirrors
#2 A Labyrinth of Scions and Sorcery]]> 448 Curtis Craddock 0765389657 L.L. 0 to-read 4.16 2020
author: Curtis Craddock
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2020
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 229053180
For the ending to exist, we must talk about the beginnings, of which there are many.]]> 300 Joshua Walker L.L. 0 to-read 0.0
author: Joshua Walker
name: L.L.
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 41033158
So reads the sign outside of The Wandering Inn, a small building run by a young woman named Erin Solstice. She serves pasta with sausage, blue fruit juice, and dead acid flies on request. And she comes from another world. Ours.

It’s a bad day when Erin finds herself transported to a fantastical world and nearly gets eaten by a Dragon. She doesn’t belong in a place where monster attacks are a fact of life, and where Humans are one species among many. But she must adapt to her new life. Or die.

In a dangerous world where magic is real and people can level up and gain classes, Erin Solstice must battle somewhat evil Goblins, deadly Rock Crabs, and hungry [Necromancers]. She is no warrior, no mage. Erin Solstice runs an inn.

She’s an [Innkeeper].]]> 1235 Pirateaba L.L. 0 to-read 4.26 2018
author: Pirateaba
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 230093677
The truth of Fenn’s past is no longer lost—but the cost of remembering may be higher than forgetting. As war erupts and vengeful spirits awaken, the fate of Tassar will be decided once and for all.

The epic conclusion to the Dragon Spirits series—a sweeping, multi-POV fantasy set in a world of dragons, spirits, and cursed magic—is coming this July!]]> L.L. MacRae 1916676197 L.L. 0 0.0
author: L.L. MacRae
name: L.L.
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves:
review:

]]> 221891417 The time has come! Book seven in the bestselling Dungeon Crawler Carl series is here!

They call it Faction Wars.

The ninth floor.

Nine armies, each led by rich and powerful aliens from across the galaxy. Each team has one objective: to capture and hold the castle at the very center of the battlefield. Strategy, alliances, pitched battles, and, of course, betrayal... It all makes for great fun and even greater television.

After all, none of these powerful aliens really die when they’re playing war.

Except this time. This time, winner takes all. Those who fall, stay in the ground.

As the AI continues its rapid decline, Carl and company take advantage of the chaos. For the first time ever, the crawlers are fighting back. They are now one of the nine teams. And this season, there’s a tenth army on the playing field. The NPCs, who are normally used as nothing but cannon fodder, have become fully self-aware and formed a team of their own.

For Donut and Katia, the stakes are even higher. Only one of them will be allowed to leave this level.

If they all want to survive, they’re going to need a little help from a veteran or two.

This is it.
This is what they’ve been fighting toward.
This is war.

This inevitable ruin.]]> 29 Matt Dinniman L.L. 4
This is absolutely an epic fantasy-science fiction mash up, it’s just dressed in LitRPG clothes. I adore the Hunger Games/Battle Royale-esque core (a sadistic gameshow where players have to kill, kill, kill, all to the entertainment of others), as well as the political and cultural events that created the Crawl in the first place, and how they’re slowly becoming unravelled. It’s dystopian and fun and adventurous, and more emotionally complex and deep than it has any right to be.

It’s really outgrown its concept and roots and has become something new - hey, kinda like the AI, right?

That being said, we’re seven books in and there is an enormous cast of characters. While the narrator is phenomenal at giving them each distinct voices which helps differentiate their personalities, at this point they are kind of all blurring together for me. Some stand out more than others, and some are from previous floors and alliances that now have bigger parts (yay for when that happens with side characters), but I kind of need a dramatis personae and/or in-depth recap at this point xD Book seven is also significantly longer, due to the extended character cast and sub-plots

However, this is a rollercoaster of a series, with twists and turns seemingly coming out of nowhere. We have meddling gods, meddling factions, political parties moving for their own gain, side characters who absolutely move for their own gain and motivations, and some big character growth and development moments.

I have no idea where it’s going next, let alone when/where/how it will end. But I’m buckled in tightly for the ride and will be here until it finishes :D]]> 4.53 2024
author: Matt Dinniman
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.53
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/31
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves:
review:
Another epic addition to this incredible series, and it was absolutely worth the wait for the audiobook. The epilogues and ending credits alone are fantastic, and I couldn’t imagine devouring this series any other way.

This is absolutely an epic fantasy-science fiction mash up, it’s just dressed in LitRPG clothes. I adore the Hunger Games/Battle Royale-esque core (a sadistic gameshow where players have to kill, kill, kill, all to the entertainment of others), as well as the political and cultural events that created the Crawl in the first place, and how they’re slowly becoming unravelled. It’s dystopian and fun and adventurous, and more emotionally complex and deep than it has any right to be.

It’s really outgrown its concept and roots and has become something new - hey, kinda like the AI, right?

That being said, we’re seven books in and there is an enormous cast of characters. While the narrator is phenomenal at giving them each distinct voices which helps differentiate their personalities, at this point they are kind of all blurring together for me. Some stand out more than others, and some are from previous floors and alliances that now have bigger parts (yay for when that happens with side characters), but I kind of need a dramatis personae and/or in-depth recap at this point xD Book seven is also significantly longer, due to the extended character cast and sub-plots

However, this is a rollercoaster of a series, with twists and turns seemingly coming out of nowhere. We have meddling gods, meddling factions, political parties moving for their own gain, side characters who absolutely move for their own gain and motivations, and some big character growth and development moments.

I have no idea where it’s going next, let alone when/where/how it will end. But I’m buckled in tightly for the ride and will be here until it finishes :D
]]> 23621277 Alternate Cover Edition for ASIN: B007VDJ13Q

Amra is a thief with morals—she won’t steal from anyone poorer than she is. Fortunately, anybody that poor generally doesn’t have much worth stealing! Holgren is a mage with a distaste for magic and a soul bartered away to dark powers who will transport him to an eternity of torment on the instant of his death. Together they embark on a quest for the fabled city of Thagoth, where the secret of immortality is rumored to be hidden.

But Amra and Holgren aren’t the only ones after the secret. Many others seek to utilize the hidden magic for their own twisted ends. And waiting in the ruined city with dark plans for the world are the twin gods Tha-Agoth and Athagos, a brother and sister whose illicit passion is as destructive and vengeful as they are.

Now, as potent sorceries clash in a violent struggle for dominion over all that lives, Amra and Holgren face a choice between the unthinkable and the unbearable—with the fate of the world hanging in the balance...]]> 288 Michael McClung L.L. 4
This instalment continued the titular Amra’s journey, though instead of being set in the city with people to steal from and double cross, this adventure took us far out into pastures new.

The writing in this is excellent, as I learned from book one, though the tone is decidedly darker. It quickly moved into dark fantasy territory, and even into horror (with several body horror sequences that had me reading with one eye closed). We have meddling gods (which I loved), terrifying magic, shadow monsters, and death and grievous injury lurking around every corner.

I am not a huge fan of horror, so my enjoyment of this book was much less than the first. Amra is thrown from pillar to post throughout, mostly at the beck and call of creatures and deities far greater than herself. Although not as enjoyable as book one, it was a solid read :D]]> 3.78 2003
author: Michael McClung
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/31
date added: 2025/03/31
shelves:
review:
After absolutely adoring The Thief Who Pulled On Trouble’s Braids, I had to grab the sequels, although it took me a while to get around to book two.

This instalment continued the titular Amra’s journey, though instead of being set in the city with people to steal from and double cross, this adventure took us far out into pastures new.

The writing in this is excellent, as I learned from book one, though the tone is decidedly darker. It quickly moved into dark fantasy territory, and even into horror (with several body horror sequences that had me reading with one eye closed). We have meddling gods (which I loved), terrifying magic, shadow monsters, and death and grievous injury lurking around every corner.

I am not a huge fan of horror, so my enjoyment of this book was much less than the first. Amra is thrown from pillar to post throughout, mostly at the beck and call of creatures and deities far greater than herself. Although not as enjoyable as book one, it was a solid read :D
]]> 214948980
While his title may be gone, his duties are not. Celehar contends with a municipal cemetery with fifty years of secrets, the damage of a revethavar he’s terrified to remember, and a group of miners who are more than willing to trade Celehar’s life for a chance at what they feel they’re owed.

Celehar does not have to face these impossible tasks alone. Joining him are his mentee Velhiro Tomasaran, still finding her footing with the investigative nature of their job; Iäna Pel-Thenhior, his beloved opera director friend and avid supporter; and the valiant guard captain Hanu Olgarezh.

Amidst the backdrop of a murder and a brewing political uprising, Celehar must seek justice for those who cannot find it themselves under a tense political system. The repercussions of his quest are never as simple they seem, and Celehar’s own life and happiness hang in the balance.]]> 480 Katherine Addison 183786439X L.L. 0 to-read 4.17 2025
author: Katherine Addison
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.17
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 199653099 Hunger makes monsters in this dark new tale in Nghi Vo's Hugo Award-winning Singing Hills Cycle.

Wandering Cleric Chih of Singing Hills and their hoopoe companion Almost Brilliant come to the river town of Baolin chasing stories of a legendary famine. Amid tales of dishes served to royalty and desserts made of dust, they discover the secrets of what happens when hunger stalks the land and what the powerful will do to hide their crimes.

Trapped in the mansion of a sinister magistrate, Chih and Almost Brilliant must learn what happened in Baolin when the famine came to call, and they must do so quickly... because the things in the shadows are only growing hungrier.

The Singing Hills Cycle has been shortlisted for the Lambda Literary Award, the Locus Award, and the Ignyte Award, and has won the Crawford Award and the Hugo Award.

The novellas are standalone stories linked by the Cleric Chih, and may be read in any order.]]> Nghi Vo L.L. 0 to-read 5.00 2025
author: Nghi Vo
name: L.L.
average rating: 5.00
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 195790798 A palace the size of a city, ruled by giant Ladies of unknowable, eldritch origin. A land left to slow decay, drowning in the debris of generations. All this and more awaits you within The West Passage, a delightfully mysterious and intriguingly weird medieval fantasy unlike anything you've read before.

When the Guardian of the West Passage died in her bed, the women of Grey Tower fed her to the crows and went back to their chores. No successor was named as Guardian, no one took up the fallen blade; the West Passage went unguarded.

Now, snow blankets Grey in the height of summer. Rats erupt from beneath the earth, fleeing that which comes. Crops fail. Hunger looms. And none stand ready to face the Beast, stirring beneath the poisoned soil.

The fate of all who live in the palace hangs on narrow shoulders. The too-young Mother of Grey House sets out to fix the seasons. The unnamed apprentice of the deceased Grey Guardian goes to warn Black Tower. Both their paths cross the West Passage, the ancient byway of the Beast. On their journeys they will meet schoolteachers and beekeepers, miracles and monsters, and very, very big Ladies. None can say if they'll reach their destinations, but one thing is for the world is about to change.]]> 373 Jared PechaÄŤek 1250884837 L.L. 0 to-read 3.89 2024
author: Jared PechaÄŤek
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 54954579
A dread ritual casts a deadly shadow . . . Achaeos the seer has tracked the stolen Shadow Box to the marsh-town of Jerez, driven by the ghosts of the legendary Darakyon. But he has only days before this magical artifact will be lost to him forever . . . Meanwhile, the Empire's dread forces are mustering for their next great offensive. Stenwold and followers have only a short time to gather allies, before the enemy's soldiers march again - conquering everything in their path. If Stenwold cannot hold them back, the hated black and gold flag will fly over every city in the Lowlands before the year's end. And should the Shadow Box fall into the hands of the power-mad Emperor, nothing will save the world from his relentless ambition. Blood of the Mantis is followed by Salute the Dark, the fourth book in the Shadows of the Apt series.]]> 448 Adrian Tchaikovsky 1529050308 L.L. 5
The third book in this series continues what the second did - upping the stakes, expanding the world, adding characters, diving deeper into development (both character and location) and making for an utterly enjoyable read.

This is becoming one of my favourite series of all time and I was on the edge of my seat for so much of it. The weaving of the world, magic, myths, technological advancements, and the depths (and heights) the characters grow into is nothing short of sensational.

My heart bleeds for Totho and the very real, very tragic path his character is walking. I am terrified of so many dark powers in this, yet cannot wait to see where they take things and how their influence will be seen across the world. I loved the flier battles, seeing new parts of the world, feeling the horror and elation as one side seems to gain an upper hand, how there are rogue agents doing their own things.

I gasped and my jaw dropped many times while reading this. It absolutely has its claws in me!

Too many favourite characters, locations, and scenes to mention. No one is safe and I am rooting for so many of them.

Absolutely adored it and can’t wait to continue with book four!]]> 4.05 2009
author: Adrian Tchaikovsky
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2009
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/14
date added: 2025/03/14
shelves:
review:
Retuning to The Shadows of the Apt is like coming home in a way. It’s a familiar, comforting presence.

The third book in this series continues what the second did - upping the stakes, expanding the world, adding characters, diving deeper into development (both character and location) and making for an utterly enjoyable read.

This is becoming one of my favourite series of all time and I was on the edge of my seat for so much of it. The weaving of the world, magic, myths, technological advancements, and the depths (and heights) the characters grow into is nothing short of sensational.

My heart bleeds for Totho and the very real, very tragic path his character is walking. I am terrified of so many dark powers in this, yet cannot wait to see where they take things and how their influence will be seen across the world. I loved the flier battles, seeing new parts of the world, feeling the horror and elation as one side seems to gain an upper hand, how there are rogue agents doing their own things.

I gasped and my jaw dropped many times while reading this. It absolutely has its claws in me!

Too many favourite characters, locations, and scenes to mention. No one is safe and I am rooting for so many of them.

Absolutely adored it and can’t wait to continue with book four!
]]> 228928465 Matt Dinniman L.L. 0 to-read 4.53 2025
author: Matt Dinniman
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.53
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 78473145
What would you sacrifice to be free?

For Senn, former slave turned rebel leader and now the powerful Herald of the Lord of Greed, the answer was everything. He thought he had left hope behind forever. But when a ghostly child with sparkling blue eyes appears to him, Senn's loyalty is tested. His own God and army turn against him, forcing him to flee into the harsh desert wasteland alone and powerless.

But as he searches for revenge and a new source of power, he must confront his past, including the woman he left behind at the mercy of the Forever King and his Chainkeepers. A new path that may lead him to Hope, even if he's not yet ready to embrace it.

Will Senn find redemption and a new purpose, or will he fall to the forces that seek to destroy him and turn all of humanity into thralls?]]> 421 Mars G. Everson L.L. 0 to-read 3.86
author: Mars G. Everson
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.86
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 35696827
When the League gets word that Blackflame intends to detain—and execute—a leading political family, Hitomi volunteers to help the family escape. But there are more secrets at play than Hitomi’s, and much worse fates than execution. When Hitomi finds herself captured along with her charges, it will take everything she can summon to escape with her life.

]]> 152 Intisar Khanani L.L. 5
It’s a short book, but the pacing is exquisitely managed, never feeling rushed nor dragging. There is no filler, but there are plenty of times for quiet moments and contemplative reflection.

We follow Hitomi, a stranger in a country filled with corrupt government officials, wild magic, and a troupe of found family thieves. It starts with what you might expect with a street urchin thief troupe that gets involved with something bigger than itself, but Hitomi is slowly revealed to be far more than what she appears. The magic (I LOVED every single facet of this, from the stones to the titular sunbolt), the enemies, the side characters, are all well done, and honestly nothing really happened that I expected or predicted, which kept the entire book feeling fresh and fun.

We are able to explore and discover things as Hitomi does, we feel the fear, urgency, and loss as greatly as her successes (of which there are few), and the world grows and opens in a very natural way. There are no info dumping dialogues, no people acting stupidly to force the plot, and every trope is done excellently or subverted.

There are fangs, lycans, breathers, mages, and eleven kingdoms - hinting at a far greater world and story just waiting to be expanded.

Absolutely fantastic and highly recommend!]]> 4.22 2013
author: Intisar Khanani
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2013
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/05
date added: 2025/03/05
shelves:
review:
A beautifully written introduction to a world of magic, dark creatures, and promises.

It’s a short book, but the pacing is exquisitely managed, never feeling rushed nor dragging. There is no filler, but there are plenty of times for quiet moments and contemplative reflection.

We follow Hitomi, a stranger in a country filled with corrupt government officials, wild magic, and a troupe of found family thieves. It starts with what you might expect with a street urchin thief troupe that gets involved with something bigger than itself, but Hitomi is slowly revealed to be far more than what she appears. The magic (I LOVED every single facet of this, from the stones to the titular sunbolt), the enemies, the side characters, are all well done, and honestly nothing really happened that I expected or predicted, which kept the entire book feeling fresh and fun.

We are able to explore and discover things as Hitomi does, we feel the fear, urgency, and loss as greatly as her successes (of which there are few), and the world grows and opens in a very natural way. There are no info dumping dialogues, no people acting stupidly to force the plot, and every trope is done excellently or subverted.

There are fangs, lycans, breathers, mages, and eleven kingdoms - hinting at a far greater world and story just waiting to be expanded.

Absolutely fantastic and highly recommend!
]]> 215767834 The perfect read for fans of Pumpkin Spice Café and Legends and Lattes!

When Saphira opened up her café for baby dragons and their humans, she wasn’t expecting it to be so difficult to keep the fires burning. It turns out, young dragons are not the best magical animals to keep in a café, and replacing all that burnt furniture is costing Saphira more than she can afford from selling dragon-roasted coffee.

Aiden is a local gardener, and local heart-throb, more interested in his plants than actually spending time with his disobedient baby dragon. When Aiden walks into Saphira’s café, he has a genius idea � he'll ask Saphira to train his baby dragon, and he'll pay her enough to keep the café afloat.

Saphira’s happy-go-lucky attitude doesn’t seem to do anything but irritate the grumpy-but-gorgeous Aiden, except that everywhere she goes, she finds him there. But can this dragon café owner turn her fortunes around, and maybe find love along the way?]]> 317 A.T. Qureshi 0008727678 L.L. 0 to-read 3.19 2025
author: A.T. Qureshi
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.19
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/04
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 51340378 Fortune favors the bold. Magic favors the liars.

Ren is a con artist who has come to the sparkling city of NadeĹľra with one goal: to trick her way into a noble house, securing her fortune and her sister's future.

But as she's drawn into the elite world of House Traementis, she realizes her masquerade is just one of many surrounding her. And as nightmare magic begins to weave its way through the City of Dreams, the poisonous feuds of its aristocrats and the shadowy dangers of its impoverished underbelly become tangled…with Ren at their heart.

The Mask of Mirrors is the unmissable start to the Rook & Rose trilogy, a dazzling and darkly magical fantasy adventure by Marie Brennan and Alyc Helms, writing together as M. A. Carrick.]]> 630 M.A. Carrick 0356515176 L.L. 0 to-read 4.00 2021
author: M.A. Carrick
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/01
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 62493348
How would you like to begin an apprenticeship in the mystical craft of artificery? You’ll learn things that most people can only dream of. You’ll make swords with self-sharpening blades, bows that fire by themselves, and clocks that can read the future.

Even better, you’ll get to live in the sunlit village of Sunhampton, a sleepy little crafter’s village of cobbled streets, cozy taverns, and pleasant bakeries.

If this sounds like just the life for you, then grab a beer and a sweet roll, and follow Lewis as he begins his new life as an apprentice.

Lewis comes from a family who don’t regard him much, so he sets out on his own into the world, intent on securing an apprenticeship in an interesting profession. What he doesn’t expect is to find himself studying one of the most mystical arts in the land.

It’ll be hard work. Perhaps even dangerous work. But with an old artificery master to teach him, and the friends that he makes to help him, he’s sure he’ll get there.

Why not get yourself over to the cozy town of Sunhampton and join him on his quest?]]> 330 Tom Watts L.L. 0 to-read 4.32 2022
author: Tom Watts
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 62031 The author of 13 1�2 Lives of Captain Bluebear transports us to a magical world. Optimus Yarnspinner finds himself marooned in the subterranean world of Bookholm, the City of Dreaming Books, where reading can be dangerous, where ruthless Bookhunters fight to the death.

Optimus Yarnspinner, a young writer, inherits from his beloved godfather an unpublished short story by an unknown author. His search for the author's identity takes him to Bookholm--the so-called City of Dreaming Books. On entering its streets, our hero feels as if he has opened the door of a gigantic second-hand bookshop. His nostrils are assailed by clouds of book dust, the stimulating scent of ancient leather, and the tang of printer's ink.

Soon, though, Yarnspinner falls into the clutches of the city's evil genius, Pfistomel Smyke, who treacherously maroons him in the labyrinthine catacombs underneath the city, where reading books can be genuinely dangerous...]]> 461 Walter Moers 0099490579 L.L. 0 to-read 4.37 2004
author: Walter Moers
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.37
book published: 2004
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 18378 216 Daniel Keyes 1857989384 L.L. 5
I knew going into this nothing except it was trauma and a tear-jerker.

At face value, this is a story about a man in his 30s with a low IQ. He, like us all, is a human who wants to fit in with other people and be liked. He understands many of the people around him are smarter than he is, and he puts them on a pedestal. If it could just get there, to where they are, he will be better. Learning to read and write (reed and rite) is one way he tries to do this.

Then we get into the plot of the science buffs and psychologists operating on him to try and artificially boost his intelligence, following a successful trial on the titular mouse, Algernon.

Before I get into the rest of the review, I want to say that this premise really could be about any person or group of people who are made to feel “other� in our society. For me, it’s about being neurospicy. Trying to fit in with people, seeing their eyes glaze over, their sneers, their frowns of confusion or polite dismissal. Or the bullying of youth. Or the trauma of a parent furious with you for being lazy and not trying hard enough (and associated physical and/or psychological manipulations/aggressions/neglect to “just get you to be normal ffs�).

It could be your skin not being the right colour. Your gender expression being “wrong.� Your sexuality not being accepted. Your disabilities, visible or not, physical or not. The way you look, speak, move, dress.

Anyone who has been seen as “other� and who has to “mask� to try and fit in with mainstream accepted people, hide their trauma, or pretend to be “normal.� Who has just wanted to be accepted as they are.

About how deep down we are all people. We are all the same. We should not have one narrow frame of expectations of what a person is or should be, and ridicule and villainise any who don’t fit this mould.

So yes. I loved it.

Our MC, Charlie Gordon, has a desperate desire to please in order to be liked. He has a huge amount of childhood trauma from his abusive mother and absent father. He has repressed so many parts of himself that he doesn’t even know who he is.

The operation is a success, with an incredible boost to his intelligence that enables his reading and writing to enhance (correct spelling and punctuation is just the tip of the iceberg), he learns multiple languages, reads in multiple disciplines, and finds a connection with the mouse that went through the experiment before him.

He joins his idols on their pedestals. And much like us growing up and learning our parents/caregivers are flawed (or managers in work, or politicians in government, or any other position of authority) the cynicism and shock and anger grow, which is to be expected. Charlie tries harder and hard to fit in. He realises people laughed at him all his life, and has a deep-rooted insecurity about that. He wants the love and acceptance of his mother, who is unable to give it to him. He wants his emotional maturity to grow along with his intelligence, but he is two people almost, stuck in the same body.

For all his intelligence, what he wants and needs are still different.

And the story can only end in one way. Charlie knows it, and the last few pages were like the ticking seconds of a bomb counting down. We all knew what was going to happen, but it doesn’t make that terror any easier. I felt the desperate scrabbling of Charlie as he tries to hold on to everything that is suddenly slipping away from him. The deterioration is much like many mental illnesses, which makes it a hard read at times.

Additionally, this is very much a book of its time, with the female characters few and far between, and usually one-dimensional for a singular purpose (usually a trope).

There are deeper moral questions in this book - what does it mean to be human, our personal biases towards people we deem different, about the forgotten people, about happiness, about how to live life. It’s a story that has made me think.

I’m glad I read it because…wow.]]> 4.38 1966
author: Daniel Keyes
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.38
book published: 1966
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/25
date added: 2025/02/25
shelves:
review:
Wow

I knew going into this nothing except it was trauma and a tear-jerker.

At face value, this is a story about a man in his 30s with a low IQ. He, like us all, is a human who wants to fit in with other people and be liked. He understands many of the people around him are smarter than he is, and he puts them on a pedestal. If it could just get there, to where they are, he will be better. Learning to read and write (reed and rite) is one way he tries to do this.

Then we get into the plot of the science buffs and psychologists operating on him to try and artificially boost his intelligence, following a successful trial on the titular mouse, Algernon.

Before I get into the rest of the review, I want to say that this premise really could be about any person or group of people who are made to feel “other� in our society. For me, it’s about being neurospicy. Trying to fit in with people, seeing their eyes glaze over, their sneers, their frowns of confusion or polite dismissal. Or the bullying of youth. Or the trauma of a parent furious with you for being lazy and not trying hard enough (and associated physical and/or psychological manipulations/aggressions/neglect to “just get you to be normal ffs�).

It could be your skin not being the right colour. Your gender expression being “wrong.� Your sexuality not being accepted. Your disabilities, visible or not, physical or not. The way you look, speak, move, dress.

Anyone who has been seen as “other� and who has to “mask� to try and fit in with mainstream accepted people, hide their trauma, or pretend to be “normal.� Who has just wanted to be accepted as they are.

About how deep down we are all people. We are all the same. We should not have one narrow frame of expectations of what a person is or should be, and ridicule and villainise any who don’t fit this mould.

So yes. I loved it.

Our MC, Charlie Gordon, has a desperate desire to please in order to be liked. He has a huge amount of childhood trauma from his abusive mother and absent father. He has repressed so many parts of himself that he doesn’t even know who he is.

The operation is a success, with an incredible boost to his intelligence that enables his reading and writing to enhance (correct spelling and punctuation is just the tip of the iceberg), he learns multiple languages, reads in multiple disciplines, and finds a connection with the mouse that went through the experiment before him.

He joins his idols on their pedestals. And much like us growing up and learning our parents/caregivers are flawed (or managers in work, or politicians in government, or any other position of authority) the cynicism and shock and anger grow, which is to be expected. Charlie tries harder and hard to fit in. He realises people laughed at him all his life, and has a deep-rooted insecurity about that. He wants the love and acceptance of his mother, who is unable to give it to him. He wants his emotional maturity to grow along with his intelligence, but he is two people almost, stuck in the same body.

For all his intelligence, what he wants and needs are still different.

And the story can only end in one way. Charlie knows it, and the last few pages were like the ticking seconds of a bomb counting down. We all knew what was going to happen, but it doesn’t make that terror any easier. I felt the desperate scrabbling of Charlie as he tries to hold on to everything that is suddenly slipping away from him. The deterioration is much like many mental illnesses, which makes it a hard read at times.

Additionally, this is very much a book of its time, with the female characters few and far between, and usually one-dimensional for a singular purpose (usually a trope).

There are deeper moral questions in this book - what does it mean to be human, our personal biases towards people we deem different, about the forgotten people, about happiness, about how to live life. It’s a story that has made me think.

I’m glad I read it because…wow.
]]> 9461562 ]]> 278 Martha Wells 1597802166 L.L. 0 to-read 3.94 2011
author: Martha Wells
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.94
book published: 2011
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 34211805 It's not the journey that counts, but who is at your side

Nana is on a road trip, but he is not sure where to. All that matters is that he can sit beside his beloved Satoru in the front of his silver van. Satoru is keen to visit three old friends from his youth, though Nana doesn't know why and Satoru won't say.

Set against the backdrop of Japan's changing seasons and narrated with a rare gentleness and striking humour, Nana's story explores the wonder and thrill of life's unexpected detours. It is about friendship, solitude, and knowing when to give and when to take. Above all, it shows how acts of love, both great and small, can transform our lives.]]> 247 Hiro Arikawa L.L. 0 to-read 4.33 2012
author: Hiro Arikawa
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 162165256 Learn about the Mass Dragoning of 1955 in which 300,000 women spontaneously transform into dragons...and change the world.

Alex Green is a young girl in a world much like ours. But this version of 1950's America is characterized by a significant event: The Mass Dragoning of 1955, when hundreds of thousands of ordinary wives and mothers sprouted wings, scales and talons, left a trail of fiery destruction in their path, and took to the skies. Seemingly for good. Was it their choice? What will become of those left behind? Why did Alex's beloved Aunt Marla transform but her mother did not? Alex doesn't know. It's taboo to speak of, even more so than her crush on Sonja, her schoolmate.

Forced into silence, Alex nevertheless must face the consequences of dragons: a mother more protective than ever; a father growing increasingly distant; the upsetting insistence that her aunt never even existed; and a new "sister" obsessed with dragons far beyond propriety. Through loss, rage, and self-discovery, this story follows Alex's journey as she deals with the events leading up to and beyond the Mass Dragoning, and her connection with the phenomenon itself.]]> 336 Kelly Barnhill 1471412229 L.L. 0 to-read 3.76 2022
author: Kelly Barnhill
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 67353776 The Priory of the Orange Tree), three women band together against a cruel empire that divides people by blood.

Red is the blood of the elite, of magic, of control.
Blue is the blood of the poor, of workers, of the resistance.
Clear is the blood of the slaves, of the crushed, of the invisible.

Sylah dreams of days growing up in the resistance, being told she would spark a revolution that would free the empire from the red-blooded ruling classes' tyranny. That spark was extinguished the day she watched her family murdered before her eyes.

Anoor has been told she's nothing, no one, a disappointment, by the only person who matters: her mother, the most powerful ruler in the empire. But when Sylah and Anoor meet, a fire burns between them that could consume the kingdom--and their hearts.

Hassa moves through the world unseen by upper classes, so she knows what it means to be invisible. But invisibility has its uses: It can hide the most dangerous of secrets, secrets that can reignite a revolution. And when she joins forces with Sylah and Anoor, together these grains of sand will become a storm.

As the empire begins a set of trials of combat and skill designed to find its new leaders, the stage is set for blood to flow, power to shift, and cities to burn.

Book One of The Ending Fire Trilogy]]> 502 Saara El-Arifi 0008450447 L.L. 0 to-read 4.19 2022
author: Saara El-Arifi
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.19
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/24
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 221722124
Lindon’s journey may have ended, but there are still more tales to tell.

The stories in this collection will show you the world after Cradle, those left behind, and even some legends from long ago. If you’ve read the main series but you still want more, these are for you.

Witness the first Uncrowned King tournament. Visit the Monarchs and their voyages in the lands beyond. Get to know the Abidan in their homes, and meet the people of new worlds as they cross paths with familiar faces.

And, of course, check in on some old friends.

See them once again…across the Threshold.]]> 340 Will Wight L.L. 0 to-read 4.52 2025
author: Will Wight
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.52
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211004133 The Shape of Water meets Mexican Gothic in this sapphic monster romance novella wrapped in gothic fantasy trappings

The old keeper of the keys is dead, and the creature who ate her is the volatile Lady of the Capricious House�―Anatema, an enormous humanoid spider with a taste for laudanum and human brides.

Dália, the old keeper’s protégée, must take up her duties, locking and unlocking the little drawers in which Anatema keeps her memories. And if she can unravel the crime that led to her predecessor's death, Dália might just be able to survive long enough to grow into her new role.

But there’s a gaping hole in Dália’s plan that she refuses to see: Anatema cannot resist a beautiful woman, and she eventually devours every single bride that crosses her path.]]> 128 Hache Pueyo 1250376637 L.L. 0 to-read 3.88 2022
author: Hache Pueyo
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.88
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 217420653 An epic and romantic debut adventure fantasy, where a necromancer trying to resurrect her sister gets embroiled in bigger, world-ending plans instead

It's been thousands of years since the gods lifted the continents into the air so humanity could thrive, chaining the lands down with their bones and turning them into Anchor.

Azul del Arroyo doesn't care about gods or Anchor; she cares about being responsible for her sister's death and getting her bones from the capital so she can bring her back to life. Again. But in her way stands the Emissary of the Lord Death, who will do anything in his power to stop her, because a necromancer like her shouldn’t exist—no matter how alluring.

As Azul and the Emissary's cat-and-mouse game leads them to the dangerous Court of Cienpuentes, their fate becomes entwined with a count who begrudgingly works for a child king, a faceless witch who transforms Anchor into dreams she can peddle, and a long-lost half-brother with a secret of his own. It's a time of enlightenment, of rapiers and scientific prowess, in a country where Anchor ceased to be something worth revering a long time ago, and people have forgotten the gods' sacrifice.

But the gods haven’t. Because the gods want their bones back, and they're not opposed to becoming players in their own game.

Swashbuckling, grand, and tragically romantic, Mistress of Bones is a can't-miss debut about love, about loss, and, of course, about death.]]> 336 Maria Z. Medina 1250888239 L.L. 0 to-read 3.56 2025
author: Maria Z. Medina
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.56
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/17
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 63113748
Then one day this strange guy showed up with his even stranger pet, the latter a bit of a gift horse by all accounts, and turned it all upside down. They claimed to have come to save my life, and while they were at it, I got them to help out with the most important quest of my finding the Supreme Key of the Dragon. Needless to say, none of it turned out quite how I expected. But we had fun, even if it was hell sometimes. In the end, what we found was worth it all.

My name is Conor Drew, the Gods destined me for great things.

But I turned them down."]]> 528 Mitriel Faywood 1739151321 L.L. 5 3.97 2022
author: Mitriel Faywood
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves:
review:

]]> 127305606 The Dead Cat Tail Assassins are not cats.

Nor do they have tails.

But they are most assuredly dead.

Nebula and Alex Award winner P. Djèlí Clark introduces a brand-new world and a fantastical city full of gods and assassins.

Eveen the Eviscerator is skilled, discreet, professional, and here for your most pressing needs in the ancient city of Tal Abisi. Her guild is strong, her blades are sharp, and her rules are simple. Those sworn to the Matron of Assassins―resurrected, deadly, wiped of their memories―have only three unbreakable vows.

First, the contract must be just. That’s above Eveen’s pay grade.

Second, even the most powerful assassin may only kill the contracted. Eveen’s a professional. She’s never missed her mark.

The third and the simplest: once you accept a job, you must carry it out. And if you stray? A �nal death would be a mercy. When the Festival of the Clockwork King turns the city upside down, Eveen’s newest mission brings her face-to-face with a past she isn’t supposed to remember and a vow she can’t forget.]]> 213 P. Djèlí Clark 1250767040 L.L. 0 to-read 3.84 2024
author: P. Djèlí Clark
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 196253792 "How about making a bargain with me?" said the demon. "I'll break your spell if you agree to break this contract I'm under."

In the land of Ingary, where seven-league boots and cloaks of invisibility really exist, Sophie Hatter attracts the unwelcome attention of the Witch of the Waste, who puts a curse on her. Determined to make the best of things, Sophie travels to the one place where she might get help � the moving castle which hovers on the nearby hills.

But the castle belongs to the dreaded Wizard Howl, whose appetite, they say, is satisfied only by the hearts of young girls . . .]]> 302 Diana Wynne Jones 0007299265 L.L. 3
The opening was wonderful. Quaint and beautiful, with some lovely introductions of the fantasy elements. But after the first 50 or so pages, my interest waned and I struggled with the rest of it.

We know from the film that Howl is dramatic. But in the book that is taken to the nth degree, along with all the selfishness and moodiness of a teenager. Sophie is not much better, with a huge amount of misery and surliness that seems to come out of nowhere. Big, dramatic things happen with people in danger, and she decides to snoop in his bedroom and is upset because it’s dirty? Conversations seem to make little sense to me, and I never really understood what Sophie wanted to do or why she would suddenly start treating people around her badly.

Most of the cast is like this (Calcifer is a literal demon, so him being a bit sulky is almost expected), except for Michael who is the only good-hearted character in the story, it feels like.

Overall, the fever dream-esque story was not one for me, as much as I hoped it would be]]> 4.12 1986
author: Diana Wynne Jones
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.12
book published: 1986
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/14
date added: 2025/02/14
shelves:
review:
I really wanted to love this. It should have been perfectly up my street - whimsy, magic, vibes over plot, and I already adore the Studio Ghibli film.

The opening was wonderful. Quaint and beautiful, with some lovely introductions of the fantasy elements. But after the first 50 or so pages, my interest waned and I struggled with the rest of it.

We know from the film that Howl is dramatic. But in the book that is taken to the nth degree, along with all the selfishness and moodiness of a teenager. Sophie is not much better, with a huge amount of misery and surliness that seems to come out of nowhere. Big, dramatic things happen with people in danger, and she decides to snoop in his bedroom and is upset because it’s dirty? Conversations seem to make little sense to me, and I never really understood what Sophie wanted to do or why she would suddenly start treating people around her badly.

Most of the cast is like this (Calcifer is a literal demon, so him being a bit sulky is almost expected), except for Michael who is the only good-hearted character in the story, it feels like.

Overall, the fever dream-esque story was not one for me, as much as I hoped it would be
]]> 28421799
Sal is a fully autonomous robot, the creation of which was declared illegal ages earlier due to ethical concerns. She is older than the law, however, at best out of place in society and at worst hated. Her old master is long dead, but she continues to run the tea shop her master had owned, lost in memories of the past, slowly breaking down, and aiming to fulfill her master's dream for the shop.

When Clara stops by Sal's shop for lunch, she doesn't expect to find a real robot there, let alone one who might need her help. But as they begin to spend time together and learn more about each other, they both start to wrestle with the concept of moving on...]]> 65 Meredith Katz L.L. 0 to-read 3.99 2016
author: Meredith Katz
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 199635075 The Princess Bride meets People We Meet on Vacation in this cozy quest romantasy about a group of friends who once defended their magical land together but haven’t spoken since, reuniting to attend a royal wedding, and ending up on a new adventure to save the realm—and hopefully themselves.

Ten years ago, they saved the realm. It ruined their lives.

Everyone in Mythria knows the story of how best friends Beatrice and Elowen, handsome ex-bandit Clare, and valiant leader Galwell the Great defended the land from darkness. It’s a tale beloved by all—except the former heroes. They haven’t spoken in a decade, devastated by what their quest cost them.

But when they receive an invitation to the queen of Mythria’s wedding, it’s a summons they can’t refuse . . . and a reunion for the ages, with Clare secretly not over his long-ago fling with Beatrice, Beatrice fighting the guilt she feels over how everything ended, Elowen unprepared for the return of her former flame (the cunning Vandra), and all of them lost without Galwell’s presence. And if reuniting with old friends and lovers wasn’t perilous enough, dark forces from their past have returned, plotting a domination that only Mythria’s one-time defenders can stop. Maybe.

Dusting off old weapons and old instincts, they face undead nemeses, crystal caves, enchanted swords, coffee shops, games of magical Truth or Dare, and, hardest of all, their past—rife with wounds never healed and romances never forgotten.

This time around, will their story end in happily ever after?]]> 416 E.B. Asher 0063371367 L.L. 0 to-read 3.38 2024
author: E.B. Asher
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.38
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 75495021 A hotheaded hacker must outwit the AI at the heart of a rogue warship–turned–penal colony if she and her crew of con women want to escape with their lives in this electrifying sci-fi thriller from the acclaimedĚýauthor of Bonds of Brass.

Murdock has always believed in Hark, the woman who shaped her from a petty thief and lowlife hacker into a promising con artist. Hark is everything Murdock aspires to be, from her slick fashion sense to her unfailing ability to plan under pressure. Together with Bea, a fearless driver who never walks away from a bet, and Fitz, Murdock’s infuriatingly mercurial rival who can sweet-talk the galaxy into spinning around her finger, they form a foursome with a reputation for daring heists, massive payoffs, and never, ever getting caught.

Well, until now.

Getting caught is one thing. Getting tithed to a sentient warship that’s styled itself into a punitive god is a problem this team has never faced before. Aboard the Justice is a world stitched together from the galaxy’s sinners—some fighting for survival, some struggling to build a civilized society, and some sacrificing everything to worship the AI at the heart of the ship.

The Justice ’s all-seeing eyes are fixed on its newest acquisitions, Murdock in particular. It has use for a hacker—if it can wrest her devotion away from Hark. And Murdock’s faith is already fractured. To escape the Justice ’s madness, they need a plan, and Hark might not be up to the task.

If Hark—brilliant, unflappable Hark—can’t plot a way out, Murdock will have to use every last trick she’s learned to outwit the Justice, resist its temptation, and get her crew out alive.]]> 310 Emily Skrutskie 0593499751 L.L. 0 to-read 3.62 2023
author: Emily Skrutskie
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.62
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 62919382
A “breathtaking space opera� ( Publishers Weekly , starred review) about a young tea expert who is taken as a political prisoner and recruited to spy on government officials—a role that may empower her to win back her nation’s independence—perfect for fans of N.K. Jemisin and Nnedi Okorafor.

The dust may have just settled in the failed war of conquest between the Holy Vaalbaran Empire and the Ominirish Republic, but the last Emperor’s surrender means little to a lowly scribe like Enitan. All she wants is to quit her day job and expand her fledgling tea business. But when her lover is assassinated and her sibling is abducted by Imperial soldiers, Enitan abandons her idyllic plans and weaves her tea tray up through the heart of the Vaalbaran capital. There, she learns just how far she is willing to go to exact vengeance, free her sibling, and perhaps even secure her homeland’s freedom.]]> 384 Kemi Ashing-Giwa 1668008475 L.L. 0 to-read 3.40 2023
author: Kemi Ashing-Giwa
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.40
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 79332496 A dying planet. A desperate mission. A crew facing impossible odds. Humanity’s last hope lies with them�

Time is running out for the people of New Pallas. Nobody knows that better than Alvera Renata, a tenacious captain determined to scout past the stars with nothing but a handpicked crew and the promise she made: to find a new home for humanity.

But between navigating the dangers of dark space and playing first contact politics with a galactic civilisation already on the brink of war, Alvera soon realises keeping her word might not be as easy as she thought.

Her only hope may be the secrets of the ancient alien waystations scattered across the galaxy. The mysterious technology could be the key to humanity’s survival—or bring the unwanted attention of the long-forgotten beings who built them.

But remaining united in the face of annihilation is a lot to ask from a crew already splintering under the weight of their differences. A jaded pilot wrestling with his family’s blood-stained legacy looks for a place he can start over. A young translator desperate to leave her mark on the galaxy searches for meaning out in its lawless frontier. And Alvera reckons with the aftermath of betrayal as she fights for a way to save them all.

As they break apart to forge their own paths, Alvera and her crew all face the same question: what are they willing to sacrifice to save those left behind?]]> 403 N.C. Scrimgeour L.L. 0 to-read 3.83 2021
author: N.C. Scrimgeour
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 58938271 The triumphant third and final part of the God-King Chronicles. The Godbreaker is the unmissable culmination of the series, filled with war-dragons, armoured knights, sea-faring raiders, dangerous magic and battle scenes.

War comes to Narida and Nothing Will Be The Same Again.Ěý

As the Black Keep Council prepares for war, journeying far to protect their lands and friend, The God-King and his sister try to keep Narida together in the face of betrayal while the Splinter King remains at large.

The Golden and his hordes of raiders press their advantage and sweep across the land with unholy powers.ĚýĚý

Sacrifices will be made, and not everyone will make it back to Black Keep alive...Ěý]]> 665 Mike Brooks 0356513947 L.L. 0 currently-reading 4.13 2022
author: Mike Brooks
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.13
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/10
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 56758509
After discovering just how filled with magic, intrigue, and adventure the parahuman world of being an Undead American can be, Fredrick Frankford Fletcher did exactly what was expected--he became a certified parahuman accountant. Myths and legends, as it turns out, are not so great at taking appropriate deductions and keeping their receipts, and Fred is more than happy to return to a life others view as woefully dull, expanding his accounting business to cater to various monsters and their respective financial needs.

Said monsters are, unfortunately, still spectacular at pulling Fred into trouble, though. And despite merely wanting to stick with simple paperwork, Fred once again finds he is going to have to deal with enchanted weaponry, government agents, possessed houses, and one enigmatic dragon’s interest. In the parahuman world, any business can turn deadly, even one as mundane as accounting.]]> 7 Drew Hayes L.L. 4
Once again the graphic audio, with cast and sound effects, added another layer of life to the audiobook which heightened my enjoyment even more.

Great reads and brilliant palette cleansers in between darker or heavier works.

Highly recommend!]]> 4.00 2015
author: Drew Hayes
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/09
date added: 2025/02/09
shelves:
review:
Another fun, solid entry to this series! I love the world building and how our cast of misfits slowly becomes a found family, with a new character added every couple of stories or so. The stakes rise steadily along with the pacing, and we get to see some cool new powers every now and then. There are callbacks to old characters and locations, new lore added, and everything is expanding in a lovely, gradual way.

Once again the graphic audio, with cast and sound effects, added another layer of life to the audiobook which heightened my enjoyment even more.

Great reads and brilliant palette cleansers in between darker or heavier works.

Highly recommend!
]]> 214229691 From an outstanding new voice in cozy fantasy comesĚýGreenteeth,Ěýa Ěýtale of fae, folklore, and found family, narrated by a charismatic lake-dwelling monster with a voice unlike any other, perfect for fans of T. Kingfisher.

Beneath the still surface of a lake lurks a monster with needle sharp teeth. Hungry and ready to pounce.

Jenny Greenteeth has never spoken to a human before, but when a witch is thrown into her lake, something makes Jenny decide she's worth saving. Temperance doesn't know why her village has suddenly turned against her, only that it has something to do with the malevolent new pastor.

Though they have nothing in common, these two must band together on a magical quest to defeat the evil that threatens Jenny's lake and Temperance's family, as well as the very soul of Britain.]]> 304 Molly O'Neill L.L. 0 to-read 3.98 2025
author: Molly O'Neill
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/07
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 60811826 Deep underground, forty women live imprisoned in a cage. Watched over by guards, the women have no memory of how they got there, no notion of time, and only a vague recollection of their lives before.


As the burn of electric light merges day into night and numberless years pass, a young girl—the fortieth prisoner—sits alone and outcast in the corner. Soon she will show herself to be the key to the others' escape and survival in the strange world that awaits them above ground.


Jacqueline Harpman was born in Etterbeek, Belgium, in 1929, and fled to Casablanca with her family during WWII. Informed by her background as a psychoanalyst and her youth in exile, I Who Have Never Known Men is a haunting, heartbreaking post-apocalyptic novel of female friendship and intimacy, and the lengths people will go to maintain their humanity in the face of devastation. Back in print for the first time since 1997, Harpman’s modern classic is an important addition to the growing canon of feminist speculative literature.]]> 184 Jacqueline Harpman 1945492600 L.L. 0 to-read 4.11 1995
author: Jacqueline Harpman
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.11
book published: 1995
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 222376572 Return to the cozy fantasy world of the #1 New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes series with a new adventure featuring fan-favorite, foul-mouthed bookseller, Fern.

Fern has weathered the stillness and storms of a bookseller’s life for decades, but now, in the face of crippling ennui, transplants herself to the city of Thune to hang out her shingle beside a long-absent friend’s coffee shop. What could be a better pairing? Surely a charming renovation montage will cure what ails her!

If only things were so simple�

It turns out that fixing your life isn’t a one-time prospect, nor as easy as a change of scenery and a lick of paint.

A drunken and desperate night sees the rattkin waking far from home in the company of a legendary warrior surviving on inertia, an imprisoned chaos-goblin with a fondness for silverware, and an absolutely thumping hangover.

As together they fend off a rogue’s gallery of ne’er-do-wells trying to claim the bounty the goblin represents, Fern may finally reconnect with the person she actually is when there isn’t a job to get in the way.]]> 336 Travis Baldree 1250334888 L.L. 0 to-read 4.14 2025
author: Travis Baldree
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 223170849 Petre Mercy’s had a rough time since he rode home on a cyborg horse. He’s lost a hand that’s been replaced with a mess of steel and piano string, broke his thyroid-powered sword, and helped ignite a civil war that’s engulfed the countryside.

His sister, The Queen, has ordered him to root out any traitors in Mercy House. But Petre can hardly ferret out the truth from his siblings, let alone a vast network of spies with counterplots. And every day more turncoats move against him.

If he has any hope of putting down this uprising, he’ll have to work with a sister he’s still learning to trust. But his enemies are one step ahead of him at all times. And they’re hiding in the last place he’d think to look.



"It’s bigger, better, darker, filthier, more complex, more gut wrenching, more deliciously deranged, and it just bleeds with a manic �WHAT THE FUCK?� energy."
- Esmay Rosalyne, Grimdark Magazine

"Caplan is the most imaginative writer I have ever read and has the demented genius associated with painters like Dali or Breugel."
- Sue Bavey, author of Lucky Jack

"This book sucked me in and chewed on me and then spit me out. Its intrigue and brutality and inventiveness is a visceral high."
- E.M. Hamill, author of ¶Ů˛ą±ôĂ­

"One of the most weird, original, and disgusting worlds I've ever read about in a book. That's just the way I like it."
- Travis Riddle, author of On Lavender Tides

"Unbound, unpredictable, undefinable, and unbelievably addictive."
- Craig Bookwyrm]]> 474 C.M. Caplan 1737209551 L.L. 0 currently-reading 4.70
author: C.M. Caplan
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.70
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/25
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 56257789
One fateful night � different from the night he died, which was more inconvenient than fateful � Fred reconnects with an old friend at his high school reunion. This rekindled relationship sets off a chain of events thrusting him right into the chaos that is the parahuman world, a world with chipper zombies, truck driver wereponies, maniacal necromancers, ancient dragons, and now one undead accountant trying his best to “survive.� Because even after it’s over, life can still be a downright bloody mess.]]> 6 Drew Hayes L.L. 4
I thought this would lean a lot more into humour or satire, like Orconomics, but it was much more serious than I’d expected. It helped make a lot of the tension real and the stakes rise. I’ve always loved the paranormal element you get in urban fantasy, but I don’t want the romance elements (werewolf romance/mates etc.) so this straddled that line perfectly.

There is a sort of romantic sub-plot in the first mini-story, but it is a very small part and moves on to the more interesting world building and plot super quickly, which I really liked.

There are plenty of new and old classic mythological/paranormal creatures sharing our world - vampires, werewolves (and other were creatures), dragons and shape shifters. There are also some new creatures (or at least new to me) that I really enjoyed discovering.

This was also my first ever graphic audiobook, and the additional music and sound effects really kept my focus and engagement levels high. I’ve already bought the next book in this series and look forward to returning :D

Highly recommend if you want something different and unique in fantasy, with strong characters in a modern, urban setting.]]> 3.67 2014
author: Drew Hayes
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.67
book published: 2014
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/24
date added: 2025/01/24
shelves:
review:
A short, fun urban fantasy with humour that lands well, and reminds me of The Heartstrikers series (or especially the follow up series, The DFZ), which was an unexpected surprise.

I thought this would lean a lot more into humour or satire, like Orconomics, but it was much more serious than I’d expected. It helped make a lot of the tension real and the stakes rise. I’ve always loved the paranormal element you get in urban fantasy, but I don’t want the romance elements (werewolf romance/mates etc.) so this straddled that line perfectly.

There is a sort of romantic sub-plot in the first mini-story, but it is a very small part and moves on to the more interesting world building and plot super quickly, which I really liked.

There are plenty of new and old classic mythological/paranormal creatures sharing our world - vampires, werewolves (and other were creatures), dragons and shape shifters. There are also some new creatures (or at least new to me) that I really enjoyed discovering.

This was also my first ever graphic audiobook, and the additional music and sound effects really kept my focus and engagement levels high. I’ve already bought the next book in this series and look forward to returning :D

Highly recommend if you want something different and unique in fantasy, with strong characters in a modern, urban setting.
]]> 32295221 Ken Liu is one of the most original, thought-provoking and award-winning short-story writers of his generation. This is the first collection of his work � sixteen stories that invoke the magical within the mundane, by turns profound, beguiling and heartbreaking.

Contents:
Preface � essay
The Bookmaking Habits of Select Species � (2012) � short story
State Change � (2004) � short story
The Perfect Match � (2012) � short story
Good Hunting � (2012) � short story
The Literomancer � (2010) � novelette
Simulacrum � (2011) � short story
The Regular � (2014) � novella
The Paper Menagerie � (2011) � short story
An Advanced Readers' Picture Book of Comparative Cognition � short story
The Waves � (2012) � novelette
Mono no Aware � (2012) � short story
All the Flavors � (2012) � novella
A Brief History of the Trans-Pacific Tunnel � (2012) � short story
The Litigation Master and the Monkey King � (2013) � novelette
The Man Who Ended History: A Documentary � (2011) � novella]]> 437 Ken Liu 1784975699 L.L. 0 currently-reading 4.39 2016
author: Ken Liu
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/19
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 220376307 Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn meets Tarzan in this epic fantasy, Japanese-inspired coming of age tale.

WHAT BEGINS WITH WATER WILL FINISH IN FLAMES.

On the day the river destroyed his people, Jilo took up his father’s spear. Years later, when the heirloom is taken from him, he vows to do anything to get it back.

The river is sick and putrid.

The magic is in the wrong hands.

The spear is the answer to it all.

The Child of the Greenwood is the second novella that supports The Song of the Sleepers series, an epic new fantasy from Joshua Walker.]]> 118 Joshua Walker 0648642763 L.L. 4
Jilo is a fantastic protagonist. I was more drawn to the events of his past, but both time periods are extremely well-linked and influence each other subtly and overtly. We have old magic (Luminosity), anthropomorphic weasels, and a spear that is far more than any common weapon. Plenty to love if you’re a fan of epic fantasy and coming of age stories.

You feel the fourteen year old’s fear in the “past� timeline, where he endures unimaginable horrors (the description of the Sickness in the river was masterfully done - I was absolutely transported there). We also explore the tumultuous relationship he has with his father and feel Jilo’s sense of loss and grief during the final chapters of the arc.

The “present� timeline is much more action-focussed, with an older (more traumatised and hardened) Jilo. We still have a lot of events from the past catching up to him, and how he deals with long repressed (almost forgotten) thoughts and emotions was almost painful to ensure alongside him.

A good chunk of this novella is set in the titular Greenwood, and the portrayal of this lush, verdant forest was so immersive I could practically smell the trees. Jilo finds himself against Priests of Dirt, who wear human skulls blended with animal antlers or horns, which lends an almost horror-like element to this character-driven novella.

I haven’t read anything else in this series, so I am unfamiliar with the wider plot, however it is clear this is a world in the midst of ancient wars and tribulations. The Child of the Greenwood is very much a small peek into what is evidently a huge saga, and the sheer scale of this series is hinted at on every page.

This was a wonderful story from an exciting new voice in epic fantasy!]]> 4.65
author: Joshua Walker
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.65
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/19
date added: 2025/01/19
shelves:
review:
The Child of the Greenwood is my first foray into Walker’s writing, and it is viscerally descriptive. Told in a dual timeline format, we follow the emotional tale of Jilo during past events that shaped who he is, alongside current events set more than one hundred and fifty years later.

Jilo is a fantastic protagonist. I was more drawn to the events of his past, but both time periods are extremely well-linked and influence each other subtly and overtly. We have old magic (Luminosity), anthropomorphic weasels, and a spear that is far more than any common weapon. Plenty to love if you’re a fan of epic fantasy and coming of age stories.

You feel the fourteen year old’s fear in the “past� timeline, where he endures unimaginable horrors (the description of the Sickness in the river was masterfully done - I was absolutely transported there). We also explore the tumultuous relationship he has with his father and feel Jilo’s sense of loss and grief during the final chapters of the arc.

The “present� timeline is much more action-focussed, with an older (more traumatised and hardened) Jilo. We still have a lot of events from the past catching up to him, and how he deals with long repressed (almost forgotten) thoughts and emotions was almost painful to ensure alongside him.

A good chunk of this novella is set in the titular Greenwood, and the portrayal of this lush, verdant forest was so immersive I could practically smell the trees. Jilo finds himself against Priests of Dirt, who wear human skulls blended with animal antlers or horns, which lends an almost horror-like element to this character-driven novella.

I haven’t read anything else in this series, so I am unfamiliar with the wider plot, however it is clear this is a world in the midst of ancient wars and tribulations. The Child of the Greenwood is very much a small peek into what is evidently a huge saga, and the sheer scale of this series is hinted at on every page.

This was a wonderful story from an exciting new voice in epic fantasy!
]]> 31357814 “Are you happy with your life?�

Those are the last words Jason Dessen hears before the masked abductor knocks him unconscious. Before he awakens to find himself strapped to a gurney, surrounded by strangers in hazmat suits. Before a man Jason’s never met smiles down at him and says, “Welcome back, my friend.�

In this world he’s woken up to, Jason’s life is not the one he knows. His wife is not his wife. His son was never born. And Jason is not an ordinary college physics professor but a celebrated genius who has achieved something remarkable--something impossible.

Is it this world or the other that’s the dream? And even if the home he remembers is real, how can Jason possibly make it back to the family he loves? The answers lie in a journey more wondrous and horrifying than anything he could’ve imagined—one that will force him to confront the darkest parts of himself even as he battles a terrifying, seemingly unbeatable foe.]]> 416 Blake Crouch 0451496418 L.L. 4
I’m dipping my toe into sci-fi, and Dark Matter came highly recommended by several friends.I can absolutely see why! I only put the book down for bathroom breaks, to cook dinner, and to have a call with friends, but otherwise I read it all in one day.

The parallel worlds / multi-verse is utterly gripping, as is the deeply philosophical questions about self, life, and the choices that make up who we are. The pace is nothing short of relentless, despite long chapters, every page helped me race along in the reading. The mystery and tension were through the roof, although I was not a fan of the ending.

Overall, the concept is fantastic (and frightening) but I didn’t like some of the plot turns, especially in the final third. Still an incredible book and I’m glad to have read this pillar of science fiction!]]> 4.15 2016
author: Blake Crouch
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/18
date added: 2025/01/18
shelves:
review:
I don’t think I’ve ever read a book in a day (unless it was a short story or novella), but this one quite literally gripped me from page one and did not let go until the end.

I’m dipping my toe into sci-fi, and Dark Matter came highly recommended by several friends.I can absolutely see why! I only put the book down for bathroom breaks, to cook dinner, and to have a call with friends, but otherwise I read it all in one day.

The parallel worlds / multi-verse is utterly gripping, as is the deeply philosophical questions about self, life, and the choices that make up who we are. The pace is nothing short of relentless, despite long chapters, every page helped me race along in the reading. The mystery and tension were through the roof, although I was not a fan of the ending.

Overall, the concept is fantastic (and frightening) but I didn’t like some of the plot turns, especially in the final third. Still an incredible book and I’m glad to have read this pillar of science fiction!
]]> 60678027 "Everything dragon lovers crave in a fantasy adventure, and more. Holt and Ash are now two of my favorite fantasy characters ever."
- Dyrk Ashton, Bestselling author of the Paternus series

Holt Cook was never meant to be a dragon rider. He has always served the Order Hall of the Crag dutifully, keeping their kitchen pots clean.

Until he discovers a dark secret: dragons do not tolerate weakness among their kin, killing the young they deem flawed. Moved by pity, Holt defies the Order, rescues a doomed egg and vows to protect the blind dragon within.

But the Scourge is rising. Undead hordes roam the land, spreading the blight and leaving destruction in their wake. The dragon riders are being slaughtered and betrayal lurks in the shadows.

Holt has one chance to survive. He must cultivate the mysterious power of his dragon's magical core. A unique energy which may tip the balance in the battles to come, and prove to the world that a servant is worthy after all.

"Ascendant is a delightful dragon-rider yarn in the tradition of Pern, Pit Dragon, Eragon, and Temeraire. It plucks at the strings of nostalgia in the best possible way, and picking it up feels like returning to old, beloved haunts."
- John Bierce, Bestselling author of the Mage Errant series]]> Michael R. Miller L.L. 5
Ascendant may only be the first book of this series, but it already welcomes readers to an amazingly well-realised world with a defined history and consequences that roll through the generations.

From the wyrm cloaks to the different dragon species, everything has been so well-crafted that I feel like I could walk among the lush forests or hide from the scourge.

Holt is a brilliant protagonist. Young at 16 and naive as to be expected, but without the irritating tropey behaviour that is so common in coming of age stories within fantasy. He is a true underdog with a heart of gold. He makes mistakes, he listens, he learns. I was rooting for him all the way instead of scowling at arrogance or rolling my eyes at disobedience.

He is the son of a cook, and often referred to as a pot-boy, and yet this is actually an integral part of his character. Much of his knowledge of cooking, herbs, spices etc. is used again and again, and when combined with dragon’s meat preferences, there are some unbelievably delicious passages throughout. I tried to get in the habit of having a mug of tea or a snack when reading this because my stomach would inevitably rumble at all the food and cooking descriptions!

Ash has immediately become one of my most favourite dragons ever. I love the idea of a lunar dragon, I love the idea of forging, cleansing, and different levels of power. Ascendant skilfully blends epic adventure with progression fantasy elements into an utterly moreish tale.

We are joined by side characters, some clearly have more going on behind the scenes in terms of backstory and influence, and I’m so excited to see how their stories and journeys will intertwine.

This is a pure, fun adventure fantasy. There are internal struggles that Holt (and Ash, to a lesser extent) must overcome, external struggles both local and world-wide, and the looming threat keeps the urgency up. The action sequences are exciting, the emotions are real, and the stakes keep growing.

A fantastic start to what is sure to be an impressive series, and I cannot wait to continue!

The audiobook narration by Peter Kenny was wonderful, too.]]> 4.35 2020
author: Michael R. Miller
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.35
book published: 2020
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/17
date added: 2025/01/17
shelves:
review:
A phenomenal dragon rider fantasy with strong progression themes!

Ascendant may only be the first book of this series, but it already welcomes readers to an amazingly well-realised world with a defined history and consequences that roll through the generations.

From the wyrm cloaks to the different dragon species, everything has been so well-crafted that I feel like I could walk among the lush forests or hide from the scourge.

Holt is a brilliant protagonist. Young at 16 and naive as to be expected, but without the irritating tropey behaviour that is so common in coming of age stories within fantasy. He is a true underdog with a heart of gold. He makes mistakes, he listens, he learns. I was rooting for him all the way instead of scowling at arrogance or rolling my eyes at disobedience.

He is the son of a cook, and often referred to as a pot-boy, and yet this is actually an integral part of his character. Much of his knowledge of cooking, herbs, spices etc. is used again and again, and when combined with dragon’s meat preferences, there are some unbelievably delicious passages throughout. I tried to get in the habit of having a mug of tea or a snack when reading this because my stomach would inevitably rumble at all the food and cooking descriptions!

Ash has immediately become one of my most favourite dragons ever. I love the idea of a lunar dragon, I love the idea of forging, cleansing, and different levels of power. Ascendant skilfully blends epic adventure with progression fantasy elements into an utterly moreish tale.

We are joined by side characters, some clearly have more going on behind the scenes in terms of backstory and influence, and I’m so excited to see how their stories and journeys will intertwine.

This is a pure, fun adventure fantasy. There are internal struggles that Holt (and Ash, to a lesser extent) must overcome, external struggles both local and world-wide, and the looming threat keeps the urgency up. The action sequences are exciting, the emotions are real, and the stakes keep growing.

A fantastic start to what is sure to be an impressive series, and I cannot wait to continue!

The audiobook narration by Peter Kenny was wonderful, too.
]]> 103148839
A summons from the Life Elder sets them on a perilous mission, leading to steaming jungles and blistering islands where ancient secrets will challenge everything they know of magic and dragons.

Talia, the Red Queen, is beset on all sides by pirate raiders and marauding mercenaries. Empress Skadi has abandoned her, battling uprisings in her own lands. As the noose tightens on Feorlen, Talia faces a difficult choice: let her people suffer or turn her powers against mortal foes?

Osric Agravain has found hope with his newly bonded black dragon, but some wounds run deeper than flesh and bone. Along the Fallow Frontier, he seeks the inner peace that has long eluded him.

And within the sanctum at Falcaer, Paragon Adaskar is struggling to unite the fracturing riders. If he fails, ruinous chaos will break across the world.

For when Elders and Paragons quarrel, kingdoms will fall.]]> 897 Michael R. Miller L.L. 0 to-read 4.56 2023
author: Michael R. Miller
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.56
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214441905 A werewolf terrorizes the city of Lamplight!

It's the week of Hunter's Eve, a yearly celebration of monsters, ghosts, and things that go bump in the night. But for Huntress Isabeau Agarwal, the event is a stark reminder that in her line of work, there is never a day's rest.

Murders rock the city, and Isabeau is charged with solving them before the killer strikes again. One, a macabre accident during a dangerous magician's trick gone awry. The other, a slain politician, his disfigured body displayed atop Lamplight's most memorable landmark.

The deaths are seemingly unrelated, until Isabeau learns both magician and politician belong to the same mysterious social club filled with powerful paragons of the city, each with their own hidden agendas—each with a reason to kill.

And during it all, a werewolf stalks the streets, bounding from rooftop to rooftop and claiming the lives of innocent citizens. As Isabeau uncovers the city's secrets, complications arise: the monster and the murders may be connected.

The magician. The police chief. The Ethereal Maiden. The professor. The criminal kingpin. The industrialist.

One may be a killer. One may be a werewolf. All are hiding something.]]> 398 Morgan Stang L.L. 5
There are werewolves, ghosts, and all manner of unnamed horrors (especially in the final quarter, where things take a definite Resident Evil/Bloodborne-esque turn), and the central mystery revolves around two (almost) simultaneous murders.

As with the previous books, I did not piece anything together until Evie or Izzie reveals the puzzle pieces, and everything fit perfectly. I’m always in awe of authors who can write convincing mysteries where you have an “oh of course� revelation rather than feeling like things are too convenient.

There are also some familiar faces and callbacks from the first books and some expansions on the lore from Spindle Manor, which were lovely.

Penny and Mr Homes are back, providing much needed support to our duo as they have an ever more threatening suspect list to work through.

Throughout this book there is growing threat, like a lengthening shadow, nipping at the heels of our principle characters. It keeps the pacing ticking along at a healthy speed while also giving a few pauses to breathe and think.

A brilliant series if you want a victorian-esque murder mystery that isn’t afraid to tap into the horrors lurking in the shadows.]]> 4.44
author: Morgan Stang
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.44
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/09
date added: 2025/01/09
shelves:
review:
Another excellent entry into the Lamplight Mystery series, we see Huntress Isabeau and Warwick Yard Detective Evie take on another case of the paranormal - this one taking place across an entire city, rather than a single manor or train.

There are werewolves, ghosts, and all manner of unnamed horrors (especially in the final quarter, where things take a definite Resident Evil/Bloodborne-esque turn), and the central mystery revolves around two (almost) simultaneous murders.

As with the previous books, I did not piece anything together until Evie or Izzie reveals the puzzle pieces, and everything fit perfectly. I’m always in awe of authors who can write convincing mysteries where you have an “oh of course� revelation rather than feeling like things are too convenient.

There are also some familiar faces and callbacks from the first books and some expansions on the lore from Spindle Manor, which were lovely.

Penny and Mr Homes are back, providing much needed support to our duo as they have an ever more threatening suspect list to work through.

Throughout this book there is growing threat, like a lengthening shadow, nipping at the heels of our principle characters. It keeps the pacing ticking along at a healthy speed while also giving a few pauses to breathe and think.

A brilliant series if you want a victorian-esque murder mystery that isn’t afraid to tap into the horrors lurking in the shadows.
]]> 22544764 “Our Dragon doesn’t eat the girls he takes, no matter what stories they tell outside our valley. We hear them sometimes, from travelers passing through. They talk as though we were doing human sacrifice, and he were a real dragon. Of course that’s not true: he may be a wizard and immortal, but he’s still a man, and our fathers would band together and kill him if he wanted to eat one of us every ten years. He protects us against the Wood, and we’re grateful, but not that grateful.�

Agnieszka loves her valley home, her quiet village, the forests and the bright shining river. But the corrupted Wood stands on the border, full of malevolent power, and its shadow lies over her life.

Her people rely on the cold, driven wizard known only as the Dragon to keep its powers at bay. But he demands a terrible price for his help: one young woman handed over to serve him for ten years, a fate almost as terrible as falling to the Wood.

The next choosing is fast approaching, and Agnieszka is afraid. She knows�everyone knows—that the Dragon will take Kasia: beautiful, graceful, brave Kasia, all the things Agnieszka isn’t, and her dearest friend in the world. And there is no way to save her.

But Agnieszka fears the wrong things. For when the Dragon comes, it is not Kasia he will choose.]]> 438 Naomi Novik 0804179034 L.L. 0 to-read 4.02 2015
author: Naomi Novik
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 75675152
The city of Charisat, a tiered monolith of the Ancients� design, sits on the edge of the vast desert known as the Waste. Khat, a member of a humanoid race created by the Ancients to survive in the Waste, and Sagai, his human partner, are relic dealers working in the bottom tiers of society, trying to stay one step ahead of the Trade Inspectors.

When Khat is hired by the all-powerful Warders to find relics believed to be part of one of the Ancients' arcane engines, he, and his party, begin unravelling the mysteries of an age-old technology.

This they expected.

They soon find themselves as the last line of defense between the suffering masses of Charisat and a fanatical cult, bent on unleashing an evil upon the city with an undying thirst for bone.

That, they did not expect.

This updated and revised edition is the author’s preferred text.]]> 416 Martha Wells 1250861675 L.L. 0 to-read 3.92 1995
author: Martha Wells
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.92
book published: 1995
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/04
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 60784562
It’s not going to last.

It may be sunny now, but winter is coming. The antimatter that fuels the colony is running low, and Marshall wants his bomb back. If Mickey agrees to retrieve it, he’ll be giving up the only thing that’s kept his head off of the chopping block. If he refuses, he might doom the entire colony. Meanwhile, the creepers have their own worries, and they’re not going to surrender the bomb without getting something in return. Once again, Mickey finds the fate of two species resting in his hands. If something goes wrong this time, though, he won’t be coming back.]]> 292 Edward Ashton 1250275059 L.L. 0 to-read 3.89 2023
author: Edward Ashton
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 24737140
On a remote jungle island, genetic engineers have created a dinosaur game park.

An astonishing technique for recovering and cloning dinosaur DNA has been discovered. Now one of mankind's most thrilling fantasies has come true and the first dinosaurs that the Earth has seen in the time of man emerge.

But, as always, there is a dark side to the fantasy and after a catastrophe destroys the park's defence systems, the scientists and tourists are left fighting for survival...

With this masterful cross of science fiction and action-adventure, Michael Crichton created one of the biggest bestsellers of all time, turned by Steven Spielberg into the highest grossing blockbuster ever in 1993.]]> 480 Michael Crichton L.L. 4
It was of course impossible not to imagine the film characters (actors) when I read about their book versions, but it was brilliant to see far more detail to the story than the big-screen adaptation could show. I was almost surprised that so many of the side characters had far bigger roles - especially Dr Wu, John Arnold, and Gennaro.

John Hammond is probably the biggest departure from the movie version. A lot darker, with more selfish, greedy, and egotistical tendencies - which is perhaps to be expected. The kids, Lex especially, are far more annoying in the book, though they do come up clutch a few times here and there.

Characters who die in the film survive in the book, and vice versa. The dinosaurs themselves have a bigger role, and there are far more of them (and more species) than we get to see on screen, which is of course fantastic.

I loved we got more of the “science,� how the splicing of amphibian DNA led to the dinosaurs� visual acuity being based on movement (the way a frog catches flies mid-air), as well as the unexpected breeding.

There were a lot more disembowelments and darker scenes, and it definitely toed the line between horror and thriller on more than one occasion.

Because there were so many differences, I was kept in a state of not knowing what was going to happen next, which kept everything exciting. I loved the back and forth with the lead up to the crisis, and hadn’t realised the final few chapters would be so open ended (and paced a little oddly).

This is a book of its time. There are stereotypes, many of which are negatives, and many of the characters feel bland or more like caricatures (with the exception of Dr Malcolm who has, of course, a deplorable excess of personality). But that’s fine. This isn’t an epic fantasy novel where everyone must have a deep and interesting past, internal conflict, and plenty of personality. This is an easy to read thriller that was utterly gripping from beginning to end. There was something compelling about it, and I just kept picking it up to read a few more pages, or another short chapter.

Overall, I think I prefer the movie version. It’s more streamlined, atmospheric, and the characters have a bit more to them. It would have been nice to see a bit more of the competency that the adults show in the book, plus a couple of sequences that would have been fab to see, but it’s a very solid book with an exceptional adaptation.

This is going to be the last book I read in 2024, and it was a brilliant one to round off the year :D]]> 4.33 1990
author: Michael Crichton
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.33
book published: 1990
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/30
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves:
review:
Oh wow, what a fantastic journey this book was! Jurassic Park is one of my all time favourite films, and I’ve been desperate to read the original novel it was based on.

It was of course impossible not to imagine the film characters (actors) when I read about their book versions, but it was brilliant to see far more detail to the story than the big-screen adaptation could show. I was almost surprised that so many of the side characters had far bigger roles - especially Dr Wu, John Arnold, and Gennaro.

John Hammond is probably the biggest departure from the movie version. A lot darker, with more selfish, greedy, and egotistical tendencies - which is perhaps to be expected. The kids, Lex especially, are far more annoying in the book, though they do come up clutch a few times here and there.

Characters who die in the film survive in the book, and vice versa. The dinosaurs themselves have a bigger role, and there are far more of them (and more species) than we get to see on screen, which is of course fantastic.

I loved we got more of the “science,� how the splicing of amphibian DNA led to the dinosaurs� visual acuity being based on movement (the way a frog catches flies mid-air), as well as the unexpected breeding.

There were a lot more disembowelments and darker scenes, and it definitely toed the line between horror and thriller on more than one occasion.

Because there were so many differences, I was kept in a state of not knowing what was going to happen next, which kept everything exciting. I loved the back and forth with the lead up to the crisis, and hadn’t realised the final few chapters would be so open ended (and paced a little oddly).

This is a book of its time. There are stereotypes, many of which are negatives, and many of the characters feel bland or more like caricatures (with the exception of Dr Malcolm who has, of course, a deplorable excess of personality). But that’s fine. This isn’t an epic fantasy novel where everyone must have a deep and interesting past, internal conflict, and plenty of personality. This is an easy to read thriller that was utterly gripping from beginning to end. There was something compelling about it, and I just kept picking it up to read a few more pages, or another short chapter.

Overall, I think I prefer the movie version. It’s more streamlined, atmospheric, and the characters have a bit more to them. It would have been nice to see a bit more of the competency that the adults show in the book, plus a couple of sequences that would have been fab to see, but it’s a very solid book with an exceptional adaptation.

This is going to be the last book I read in 2024, and it was a brilliant one to round off the year :D
]]> 207299293 MĂ©ka must capture a king dragon, or die trying.

War between the island states of Kattaka and Mazemoor has left no one unscathed. Méka’s nomadic people, the Ba’Suon, were driven from their homeland by the Kattakans. Those who remained were forced to live under the Kattakan yoke, to serve their greed for gold alongside the dragons with whom the Ba’Suon share an empathic connection.

A decade later and under a fragile truce, Méka returns home from her exile for an ancient, necessary rite: gathering a king dragon of the Crown Mountains to maintain balance in the wild country. But Méka’s act of compassion toward an imprisoned dragon and Lilley, a Kattakan veteran of the war, soon draws the ire of the imperialistic authorities. They order the unwelcome addition of an enigmatic Ba’Suon traitor named Raka to accompany Méka and Lilley to the mountains.

The journey is filled with dangers both within and without. As conflict threatens to reignite, the survival of the Ba’Suon people, their dragons, and the land itself will depend on the decisions � defiant or compliant � that Méka and her companions choose to make. But not even Méka, kin to the great dragons of the North, can anticipate the depth of the consequences to her world.]]> 150 Karin Lowachee 1837862397 L.L. 0 to-read 3.83 2024
author: Karin Lowachee
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/30
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 60006489 Now experience where the hit movie from Academy Award-winning director Bong Joon-ho, starring Robert Pattinson, started in Mickey7 (the inspiration for the film Mickey 17).

Dying isn’t any fun…but at least it’s a living.

Mickey7 is an Expendable: a disposable employee on a human expedition sent to colonize the ice world Niflheim. Whenever there’s a mission that’s too dangerous—even suicidal—the crew turns to Mickey. After one iteration dies, a new body is regenerated with most of his memories intact. After six deaths, Mickey7 understands the terms of his deal…and why it was the only colonial position unfilled when he took it.

On a fairly routine scouting mission, Mickey7 goes missing and is presumed dead. By the time he returns to the colony base, surprisingly helped back by native life, Mickey7’s fate has been sealed. There’s a new clone, Mickey8, reporting for Expendable duties. The idea of duplicate Expendables is universally loathed, and if caught, they will likely be thrown into the recycler for protein.

Mickey7 must keep his double a secret from the rest of the colony. Meanwhile, life on Niflheim is getting worse. The atmosphere is unsuitable for humans, food is in short supply, and terraforming is going poorly. The native species are growing curious about their new neighbors, and that curiosity has Commander Marshall very afraid. Ultimately, the survival of both lifeforms will come down to Mickey7.

That is, if he can just keep from dying for good.]]> 288 Edward Ashton L.L. 4
Mickey7 is, unfortunately (for him, or fortunately for the colony ship crew) an Expendable. Forget the elite mercenaries from the film series, the expendables in this book have much more literal meaning. Mickey is there to die. He’s the only member of the crew who can. He can do all the dangerous work that can often result in death when you’re travelling across interstellar space, or trying to set up the roots of a new colony on some far-flung planet.

But never fear! When an iteration of an expendable dies, a new one can be cooked up in the tank and wake up as if no time at all had passed.

Even in the distant future, where we have antimatter powering starships, cyclers to reduce waste, and all manner of aerial combat machinery, life isn’t easy.

What would drive someone to sign up for this? Is it immortality or is there something weirder or darker going on?

And what on earth is going on with the local alien life, dubbed crawlers?

Brilliant read and I’ve already ordered book two!]]> 4.05 2022
author: Edward Ashton
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.05
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/28
date added: 2024/12/29
shelves:
review:
Managed to squeeze in this eBook before 2024 wrapped! It’s been on my TBR all year, and it’s a fantastically gripping sci-fi. In fact, other than a late story blip, it was almost perfect for me, and I blitzed through it super fast!

Mickey7 is, unfortunately (for him, or fortunately for the colony ship crew) an Expendable. Forget the elite mercenaries from the film series, the expendables in this book have much more literal meaning. Mickey is there to die. He’s the only member of the crew who can. He can do all the dangerous work that can often result in death when you’re travelling across interstellar space, or trying to set up the roots of a new colony on some far-flung planet.

But never fear! When an iteration of an expendable dies, a new one can be cooked up in the tank and wake up as if no time at all had passed.

Even in the distant future, where we have antimatter powering starships, cyclers to reduce waste, and all manner of aerial combat machinery, life isn’t easy.

What would drive someone to sign up for this? Is it immortality or is there something weirder or darker going on?

And what on earth is going on with the local alien life, dubbed crawlers?

Brilliant read and I’ve already ordered book two!
]]> 209047419 #1 New Release in Poetry

Challenge negativity with Donna Ashworth’s incredible poems about joy, transformation, and embracing your beautiful pathway.

Change your life with words of wisdom. Feeling lost in life can be so easy to fall into, yet harder to escape. Instead of listening to self-doubt, discover how one-of-a-kind you are through Donna Ashworth’s life-changing book. I Wish I Knew is a poetry book full of mantras, reflections, and affirmations for women that will redefine the chaos in your life into life-changing revelations. With this poetry book, featuring hopeful truths that will strengthen your heart, mind, and soul, you’ll be able to experience your journey with meaning and gratitude.

Life isn’t perfect, so why let perfectionism take over yours? Follow Donna Ashworth as she shines a light on her journey of taking chances instead of stagnating in expectations and hopelessness. Each poem explores the transformative lessons she discovered along the way, and how doubting your potential for happiness can stop you from finding yourself. Full of beautiful, compassionate poetry, this manual for life offers you methods to persevere through pressure and make the most out of the one-of-a-kind path you are on.

There is something for everyone inside I Wish I Knew, such

The healing power of accepting small winsThe rare moments of your inner strength that often go unnoticedThe simplicity that unveils what you’re looking for



So if you enjoyed poem books such as Call Us What You Carry, You Could Make This Place Beautiful, or Wild Hope, then you’ll love I Wish I Knew.

]]> 192 Donna Ashworth 1684815908 L.L. 5
This is a wonderful collection of poetry on self-worth and self-esteem, and while much of it might be on the nose, all of it is meaningful. I loved pretty much every page, but especially:

- Becoming
- Manual of Life
- Follow the Flawed
- Rollercoaster
- Greener Grass
- Your Light
- You Should Be Too
- Chapters

And my top three were:

- Small Wins
- Know Yourself
- You’re Not Going there

I read it over an evening with a cup of tea, and had to force myself to slow down and savour each page. Really good reminder, especially for those neurospicy women who struggle to fit in, those who’ve been through trauma, those who have times where they hate themselves simply for existing. It really spoke to me and felt like a good friend helping me to be gentle with myself.

Definitely recommend :)]]> 3.97 2022
author: Donna Ashworth
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/27
date added: 2024/12/27
shelves:
review:
Wanted to grab this after hearing “Joy Comes Back� and loving it.

This is a wonderful collection of poetry on self-worth and self-esteem, and while much of it might be on the nose, all of it is meaningful. I loved pretty much every page, but especially:

- Becoming
- Manual of Life
- Follow the Flawed
- Rollercoaster
- Greener Grass
- Your Light
- You Should Be Too
- Chapters

And my top three were:

- Small Wins
- Know Yourself
- You’re Not Going there

I read it over an evening with a cup of tea, and had to force myself to slow down and savour each page. Really good reminder, especially for those neurospicy women who struggle to fit in, those who’ve been through trauma, those who have times where they hate themselves simply for existing. It really spoke to me and felt like a good friend helping me to be gentle with myself.

Definitely recommend :)
]]> 203579293 Blood of the Old Kings begins an epic adventure in which three strangers journey through a vast Empire that uses the power of dead wizards to conquer and subdue, from award-winning author Sung-il Kim and translated by the highly-acclaimed Anton Hur.

Powered by the corpses of sorcerers, the Empire has conquered the world. It claims to have brought peace and stability to its conquered lands, but some see that peace for what it is—a lie—and will give everything in the fight against it.

Loran is desperate for revenge after the Empire killed her family, so much so that the swordswoman climbs the volcano where the legends say an ancient dragon slumbers and leaps in. She finds that the legends are true, and Loran leaves the mountain with a sword made of dragon’s fang and a great purpose before her.

Cain arrived in the Imperial Capital lost and orphaned, and it’s only thanks to the kindness of a stranger-turned-mentor that he survived on the city’s streets. When his friend is found murdered, he will leave no stone unturned to find those responsible, even if it means starting a war.

Arienne’s future has never been in question—born a sorcerer, she’ll be a Power Generator for the Empire upon her death. But when she starts to hear the voice of a powerful necromancer in her head, she realizes the only thing more terrifying than dying for the Empire is never getting to truly live in the first place.

When peace is a lie, there is power in truth—and as Loran, Cain, and Arienne hunt for answers in their own lives, any one of their small rebellions could be the stone that brings the Empire toppling down.]]> 368 Sung-Il Kim 1250895332 L.L. 0 to-read 3.73 2016
author: Sung-Il Kim
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.73
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 214229274 From critically acclaimed author Richard Swan, Grave Empire begins the epic tale of an empire on the verge of industrial revolution, where sorcery and arcane practices are outlawed � and where an ancient prophecy threatens the coming end of days.

Blood once turned the wheels ofĚýempire. Now it is money.

A new age of exploration and innovation has dawned, and theĚýEmpireĚýof the Wolf stands to take its place as the foremost power in the known world. Glory and riches await.

But dark days are coming. A mysterious plague has broken out in the pagan kingdoms to the north, while in the south, theĚýEmpire’s proxy war in the lands of the wolfmen is weeks away from total collapse.Ěý

Worse still is the message brought to the Empress by two heretic monks, who claim to have lost contact with the spirits of the afterlife. The monks believe this is the start of an ancient prophecy heralding the end of days—the Great Silence.Ěý

It falls to Renata Rainer, a low-ranking ambassador to an enigmatic and vicious race of mermen, to seek answers from those who still practice the arcane arts. But with the road south beset by war and theĚýEmpireĚýon the brink of supernatural catastrophe, soon there may not be a world left to save...Ěý]]> 529 Richard Swan L.L. 0 to-read 4.15 2025
author: Richard Swan
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 62606460
Leven has no memory of her life before she was a soldier. The process of turning her into a Herald � a magical killing machine � was traumatic enough that it wiped her mind clean. Now, with the war won and the Imperium satisfied, she finds herself unemployed and facing a bleak future. Her fellow Heralds are disappearing, and her own mind seems to be coming apart at the seams. Strange visions, memories she shouldn’t have, are resurfacing, and none of them make any sense. They show her Brittletain, the ancient and mysterious island that the Imperium was never able to tame. Leven resolves to go to this place of magic and warring queens, with the hope of finding who she really is.

Envoy Kaeto has done a number of important little jobs for the Imperium, most of them nasty, all of them in the shadows. His newest assignment is to escort the bone-crafter Gynid Tyleigh as she travels across the Imperium � as the woman responsible for creating the Heralds, his employers owe her a great deal. But Tyleigh’s ambition alarms even Kaeto, and her conviction that she has found a new source of Titan bones, buried deep in the earth, could lead to another, even bloodier war.

Ynis was raised by the griffins, and has never seen another human face. She lives wild, as they do, eating her meat raw and flying with her talon-sister, T’rook. The griffins fiercely protect their isolation � the piles of skulls that litter the mountains of Brittletain are testament to that � but the magic they guard will always make them a target for the greed of men. By choosing not to kill Ynis when she was just a baby, the griffins may have doomed themselves � because the girl’s past is coming for her, and it carries a lethal blade.]]> 560 Jen Williams 1803364351 L.L. 5
As always with Williams’s worlds, they are immersive, richly detailed, and overflowing with magic in all forms. They are inhabited by an eclectic cast of characters with all manner of tragic and traumatic pasts, and the found family themes rule supreme.

The lore and magic of the Titans is one that absolutely tickled my interest the moment they were introduced, and we’ve only scratched the surface of who (and what) they are, much less what they are capable of. The idea of stealing magical power from these creatures is written incredibly well. There is an underlying horrific curiosity, and the resulting Heralds are magnificent.

Of course, no power comes without cost, and there are a lot of steep bills to pay. Druid magic is no less taxing, and when you throw in forest spirits and ancient creatures, a heart of the woods that is angered by something, and far-reaching ancient bone magic, and you have all the seeds of a thrilling epic adventure.

There are plenty of stand out characters, many of whom do silly things in the hopes they are helping themselves or their loved ones, and the ripple effects this has on the wider world is an aspect that I try to include in my own writing. This was so much my jam.

We have Ynis, caught between two worlds and not fitting into either. We have Leven, thrown out of the only world she knows (yay for memory loss) and struggling to find her place. We have Cillian, a Druin with his own fears and doubts and what might happen when he pushes through them. We have queens and princesses, we have griffins and forbidden cities, we have thousands of beetles, we have Inkwort, and oh my gosh, I loved every single page of this.

We get to explore an "alternate" Britain (and Europe), with the rich history, folklore, and mythology that fills our island. There is a wonderful focus on exploration as the foundations of the world, magic, and different factions are set. It's my absolute favourite kind of story, and it is treated with so much reverence and care, that I just want to wander in the woods and let that joy fill my soul.

I neeeeeeed to order book two immediately and read it as soon as possible!]]> 4.25 2023
author: Jen Williams
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.25
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/24
date added: 2024/12/24
shelves:
review:
A breathtaking return to the fantasy worlds of Jen Williams! Talonsister was such a joyful read that it got me back into the “just one more chapter� as the clock ticked away hours and days.

As always with Williams’s worlds, they are immersive, richly detailed, and overflowing with magic in all forms. They are inhabited by an eclectic cast of characters with all manner of tragic and traumatic pasts, and the found family themes rule supreme.

The lore and magic of the Titans is one that absolutely tickled my interest the moment they were introduced, and we’ve only scratched the surface of who (and what) they are, much less what they are capable of. The idea of stealing magical power from these creatures is written incredibly well. There is an underlying horrific curiosity, and the resulting Heralds are magnificent.

Of course, no power comes without cost, and there are a lot of steep bills to pay. Druid magic is no less taxing, and when you throw in forest spirits and ancient creatures, a heart of the woods that is angered by something, and far-reaching ancient bone magic, and you have all the seeds of a thrilling epic adventure.

There are plenty of stand out characters, many of whom do silly things in the hopes they are helping themselves or their loved ones, and the ripple effects this has on the wider world is an aspect that I try to include in my own writing. This was so much my jam.

We have Ynis, caught between two worlds and not fitting into either. We have Leven, thrown out of the only world she knows (yay for memory loss) and struggling to find her place. We have Cillian, a Druin with his own fears and doubts and what might happen when he pushes through them. We have queens and princesses, we have griffins and forbidden cities, we have thousands of beetles, we have Inkwort, and oh my gosh, I loved every single page of this.

We get to explore an "alternate" Britain (and Europe), with the rich history, folklore, and mythology that fills our island. There is a wonderful focus on exploration as the foundations of the world, magic, and different factions are set. It's my absolute favourite kind of story, and it is treated with so much reverence and care, that I just want to wander in the woods and let that joy fill my soul.

I neeeeeeed to order book two immediately and read it as soon as possible!
]]> 26118426 Ninefox Gambit, centers on disgraced captain Kel Cheris, who must recapture the formidable Fortress of Scattered Needles in order to redeem herself in front of the Hexarchate.

To win an impossible war Captain Kel Cheris must awaken an ancient weapon and a despised traitor general.

Captain Kel Cheris of the hexarchate is disgraced for using unconventional methods in a battle against heretics. Kel Command gives her the opportunity to redeem herself by retaking the Fortress of Scattered Needles, a star fortress that has recently been captured by heretics. Cheris’s career isn’t the only thing at stake. If the fortress falls, the hexarchate itself might be next.

Cheris’s best hope is to ally with the undead tactician Shuos Jedao. The good news is that Jedao has never lost a battle, and he may be the only one who can figure out how to successfully besiege the fortress.

The bad news is that Jedao went mad in his first life and massacred two armies, one of them his own. As the siege wears on, Cheris must decide how far she can trust Jedao–because she might be his next victim.]]> 384 Yoon Ha Lee L.L. 0 to-read 3.76 2016
author: Yoon Ha Lee
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.76
book published: 2016
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 202039
Suddenly two innocents are thrust into the midst of the conflict. Alain, a young man granted a vision by the Lady of Battles, and Liath, a young woman with the power to change the course of history. Both must discover the truth about themselves before they can accept their fates. For in a war where sorcery, not swords, may determine the final outcome, the price of failure may be more than their own lives.]]> 636 Kate Elliott 0886777712 L.L. 0 to-read 3.80 1997
author: Kate Elliott
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.80
book published: 1997
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 23346525 Keiko is a ship of smugglers, soldiers of fortune and adventurers, travelling Earth’s colony planets searching for the next job. And nobody talks about their past.

But when a face from Captain Ichabod Drift’s former life send them on a run to Old Earth, all the rules change.

Trust will be broken, and blood will be spilled.]]> 432 Mike Brooks 0091956641 L.L. 0 to-read 3.53 2015
author: Mike Brooks
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.53
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 221365113 From debut author Laura Elliot comes a tense horror novel emboldened by the surreal, perfect for fans of 28 Days Later and The Girl With All the Gifts.

Science has stolen sleep and awakened a world of horror.

“I’ve been an insomniac all of my life, but I’m not Sleepless and I won’t become Sleepless, just as long as the chips that were put into their heads never get put into mine. There’s little chance of that, since I won’t put the machinery into my brain and neither will Edgar and neither will the Professor, and we’re the only three left who could. I don’t want to be Sleepless…�

Civilisation has ended. In a bid to make us more productive, to give us more time, science took sleep from humanity. But sleeplessness turned people into feral monsters and now a small group of scientists are trapped in the Tower of London, consumed by guilt at what they have done and desperately searching for a cure. And then one day, as the last ravens circle, two miraculous survivors walk into the Tower.

Are they the answer or a terrible question?]]> Laura Elliott 1915998913 L.L. 0 to-read 3.79 2025
author: Laura Elliott
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 207809402 A plucky underdog. A powerful necromancer. And the idiot heroes bent on killing them.

Kobolds are supposed to run away—it’s what they’re best at. But Jack? Born with a club foot, he’s had to adapt. Resilient and clever, he clawed his way to respectability as majordomo of a premiere subterranean estate. He even found a father figure in the famed necromancer who owns the place.

Life was perfect� until a superband of overpowered do-gooders arrived bent on burglary and murder. These mercilessly righteous warriors of light cannot be beaten, or at least that’s how it looks on paper.

Jack must choose between survival and the people he loves� unless he can somehow defy the stats and find an unconventional solution.

If you like Terry Pratchett, J. Zachary Pike, or Nicholas Eames, you’ll love Majordomo. Buy now, before the price goes up or the murderhobos descend.]]> 135 Tim Carter 1738267008 L.L. 5
Fantastically well-written, endearing, and contains some incredibly poignant moments, this is a story of the underdogs, the misrepresented, the unjustly treated, and my goodness me I loved every single page.

Kobolds. Ghouls. Orcs. Spiders. Necromancers.

Good or evil?

I am so bored of “the chosen one� being special just because of the circumstances of their birth. People are a result of their actions and thoughts, not where they come from. This incredible novella subverts all the expected tropes of high fantasy and turns everything on its head. There is humour, but mostly this is full of heart.

The characters are brilliant, the story is perfectly paced (even as a novella, it feels deep enough and not at all rushed), and several points made me well up.

Go into this without any expectations, and I’m sure you’ll have just as great a read as I did.

HIGHLY recommend!]]> 4.66
author: Tim Carter
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.66
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/12/22
date added: 2024/12/22
shelves:
review:
This was exactly the read I didn’t know I needed!

Fantastically well-written, endearing, and contains some incredibly poignant moments, this is a story of the underdogs, the misrepresented, the unjustly treated, and my goodness me I loved every single page.

Kobolds. Ghouls. Orcs. Spiders. Necromancers.

Good or evil?

I am so bored of “the chosen one� being special just because of the circumstances of their birth. People are a result of their actions and thoughts, not where they come from. This incredible novella subverts all the expected tropes of high fantasy and turns everything on its head. There is humour, but mostly this is full of heart.

The characters are brilliant, the story is perfectly paced (even as a novella, it feels deep enough and not at all rushed), and several points made me well up.

Go into this without any expectations, and I’m sure you’ll have just as great a read as I did.

HIGHLY recommend!
]]> 57571238 Stephen’s god died on the longest day of the year�

Three years later, Stephen is a broken paladin, living only for the chance to be useful before he dies. But all that changes when he encounters a fugitive named Grace in an alley and witnesses an assassination attempt gone wrong. Now the pair must navigate a web of treachery, beset on all sides by spies and poisoners, while a cryptic killer stalks one step behind�

From the Hugo and Nebula Award winning author of Swordheart and The Twisted Ones comes a saga of murder, magic, and love on the far side of despair.]]> 13 T. Kingfisher 1705297722 L.L. 4
Having one main character the paladin of a dead saint and the other a perfumer was fantastically creative and outside the norm, and I enjoyed what these elements brought to their characters, and how they fit into their world.

There is a small mystery going on (nothing major, just some severed heads turning up all over the city) which hints at a much greater and darker magic in play outside the sphere of our leads. I would have loved more of the saints, what is left of the order, and some of the other paladins.

Ultimately, there was something very compelling about this book. It was incredibly easy to read, and the narrator was fantastic.

I loved the quote, “Relief feels like happiness when you don’t know the difference.”]]> 4.01 2020
author: T. Kingfisher
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2024/12/21
date added: 2024/12/21
shelves:
review:
I went into this audiobook completely blind. I don’t think I would have picked it if I’d known it was a fantasy romance. That being said, I LOVED the world building, magic, saints, and deeper cultures of the various nations that is simmering under the surface of this quick story. If this had been a pure fantasy, I would have enjoyed it much more (there was a bit too much pining and, “oh why am I saying this, why am I acting like this, why does he smell of gingerbread�), however the two leads were very “normal� middle-aged people, without the “chiseled jaws� or “voluptuous bosoms� that typically fill romance, and none of the witty snark either, so that was fantastic. It absolutely had me on their side and made me root for them.

Having one main character the paladin of a dead saint and the other a perfumer was fantastically creative and outside the norm, and I enjoyed what these elements brought to their characters, and how they fit into their world.

There is a small mystery going on (nothing major, just some severed heads turning up all over the city) which hints at a much greater and darker magic in play outside the sphere of our leads. I would have loved more of the saints, what is left of the order, and some of the other paladins.

Ultimately, there was something very compelling about this book. It was incredibly easy to read, and the narrator was fantastic.

I loved the quote, “Relief feels like happiness when you don’t know the difference.�
]]> 60321155
The Concluding Part of the Epic Viking Fantasy Trilogy

ALL SHALL PERISH

The great wolf howls for Ragnarok to begin. The half-giant Einer leads an army of the dead to clash with the golden shields of Asgard. The nornir tie and retie their threads, as Loki’s and Odin’s schemes unfold� and unravel. For not even cunning gods and giants see every part of the web.

As the survivors of the burned village of Ash-hill converge on the final battle on Ida’s Plain, only two are truly free to choose their paths and prevent the annihilation of the nine a storyteller who holds all destinies in his hands, and a shieldmaiden with no destiny at all.]]> 574 Thilde Kold Holdt 1786187450 L.L. 0 to-read 4.09
author: Thilde Kold Holdt
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.09
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 59612836

The Hexologists, Iz and Warren Wilby, are quite accustomed to helping desperate clients with the bugbears of city life. Aided by hexes and a bag of charmed relics, the Wilbies have recovered children abducted by chimney-wraiths, removed infestations of barb-nosed incubi, and ventured into the Gray Plains of the Unmade to soothe a troubled ghost. Well-acquainted with the weird, they never shy away from a challenging case.
Ěý
But when they are approached by the royal secretary and told the king pleads to be baked into a cake—going so far as to wedge himself inside a lit oven—the Wilbies soon find themselves embroiled in a mystery that could very well see the nation turned on its head. Their effort to expose a royal secret buried under forty years of lies brings them nose to nose with a violent anti-royalist gang, avaricious ghouls, alchemists who draw their power from a hell-like dimension, and a bookish dragon who only occasionally eats people.
Ěý
Armed with a love toughened by adversity and a stick of chalk that can conjure light from the darkness, hope from the hopeless, Iz and Warren Wilby are ready for a case that will test every spell, skill, and odd magical artifact in their considerable bag of tricks.]]> 318 Josiah Bancroft L.L. 0
That voice is present in the Hexologists, but it feels like it is turned up to the nth degree. While it is full of charm and vocabulary I had to look up every dozen pages or so, after a while, it became somewhat grating. Mostly because the pacing suffered, and my already slow reading pace had to slow further.

I read the free short story some time ago (The Small Hands of Chokedamp), and while I enjoyed the taste of the world, I couldn’t wait to get into the meat of the main book.

Our story centres around a married couple, who are a pair of investigators for the city. Iz is a hexologist, and her husband Warren is a� cook? It starts off when they are asked to investigate something for the royal court, and they reluctantly accept (the political sphere here is that they are not a fan of them), and traipse from one location to another, usually annoying the locals or have the supernatural and fantastical turned against them.

The concept of the world ticks all of my boxes. I love different types of magic, creatures, flora and fauna. Alchemy, wizardry, necromancy and more are in abundance here.

However, I couldn’t really get into the story. Police procedurals/murder mysteries typically aren’t my cup of tea, so I struggled with the core character jobs. Coupled with a very slow pace due to wading through all the marvellous description, and I struggled to get through a single chapter in a single reading session towards the end.

As such, I put it down at just over 60% and decided it wasn’t for me. However, as I’m over the 50% point, I will mark it as read.

A shame because I had such high hopes for this, but it just didn’t quite work for me on a subjective level. (Due to not finishing the book, I will not rate it)]]> 3.79 2023
author: Josiah Bancroft
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.79
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at: 2024/12/20
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves:
review:
I absolutely adore Senlin Ascends. It was the first audiobook I ever listened to, and opened up the doors to a whole new way of reading. Josiah Bancroft’s author voice is wonderful to read, full of quirks, turns of phrase, and an incredible way of describing things (and people) in a visceral way.

That voice is present in the Hexologists, but it feels like it is turned up to the nth degree. While it is full of charm and vocabulary I had to look up every dozen pages or so, after a while, it became somewhat grating. Mostly because the pacing suffered, and my already slow reading pace had to slow further.

I read the free short story some time ago (The Small Hands of Chokedamp), and while I enjoyed the taste of the world, I couldn’t wait to get into the meat of the main book.

Our story centres around a married couple, who are a pair of investigators for the city. Iz is a hexologist, and her husband Warren is a� cook? It starts off when they are asked to investigate something for the royal court, and they reluctantly accept (the political sphere here is that they are not a fan of them), and traipse from one location to another, usually annoying the locals or have the supernatural and fantastical turned against them.

The concept of the world ticks all of my boxes. I love different types of magic, creatures, flora and fauna. Alchemy, wizardry, necromancy and more are in abundance here.

However, I couldn’t really get into the story. Police procedurals/murder mysteries typically aren’t my cup of tea, so I struggled with the core character jobs. Coupled with a very slow pace due to wading through all the marvellous description, and I struggled to get through a single chapter in a single reading session towards the end.

As such, I put it down at just over 60% and decided it wasn’t for me. However, as I’m over the 50% point, I will mark it as read.

A shame because I had such high hopes for this, but it just didn’t quite work for me on a subjective level. (Due to not finishing the book, I will not rate it)
]]> 13228487
The seven dragon tribes have been at war for generations, locked in an endless battle over an ancient, lost treasure. A secret movement called the Talons of Peace is determined to bring an end to the fighting, with the help of a prophecy -- a foretelling that calls for great sacrifice.

Five dragonets are collected to fulfill the prophecy, raised in a hidden cave and enlisted, against their will, to end the terrible war.

But not every dragonet wants a destiny. And when the select five escape their underground captors to look for their original homes, what has been unleashed on the dragon world may be far more than the revolutionary planners intended . . .]]> 336 Tui T. Sutherland 0545349184 L.L. 0 to-read 4.22 2012
author: Tui T. Sutherland
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2012
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 216555204 Jendia Gammon L.L. 0 to-read 5.00 2025
author: Jendia Gammon
name: L.L.
average rating: 5.00
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 218153843 From the internationally bestselling author of Tigana, All the Seas of the World, and A Brightness Long Ago comes a majestic new novel of love and war that brilliantly evokes the drama and turbulence of medieval France.

Thierry Villar is a well-known--even notorious-- tavern poet, familiar with the rogues and shadows of that world, but not at all with courts and power. He is an unlikely person, despite his quickness, to be caught up in the deadly contests of ambitious royals, assassins, and invading armies.

But he is indeed drawn into all these things on a savagely cold night in his beloved city of Orane. And so Thierry must use all the intelligence and charm he can muster as political struggles merge with a decades-long war to bring his country to the brink of destruction.

As he does, he meets his poetic equal in an aristocratic woman and is drawn to more than one unsettling person with a connection to the world beyond this one. He also crosses paths with an extraordinary young woman driven by voices within to try to heal the ailing king--and help his forces in war. A wide and varied set of people from all walks of life take their places in the rich tapestry of this story.

A new masterwork from the internationally bestselling author of All the Seas of the World, A Brightness Long Ago, and Tigana, Written on the Dark is an elegant tour de force about power and ambition playing out amid the intense human need for art and beauty, and memories to be left behind.]]> 320 Guy Gavriel Kay 0593953983 L.L. 0 to-read 4.38 2025
author: Guy Gavriel Kay
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 211479192 A woman inherits a pawnshop where you can sell your regrets, and then embarks on a magical journey when a charming young physicist wanders into the shop, in this dreamlike and enchanting fantasy novel.

On a backstreet in Tokyo lies a pawnshop, but not everyone can find it. Most will see a cozy ramen restaurant. And only the chosen ones—those who are lost—will find a place to pawn their life choices and deepest regrets.

Hana Ishikawa wakes on her first morning as the pawnshop’s new owner to find it ransacked, the shop’s most precious acquisition stolen, and her father missing. And then into the shop stumbles a charming stranger, quite unlike its other customers, for he offers help instead of seeking it.

Together, they must journey through a mystical world to find Hana’s father and the stolen choice—by way of rain puddles, rides on paper cranes, the bridge between midnight and morning, and a night market in the clouds.

But as they get closer to the truth, Hana must reveal a secret of her own—and risk making a choice that she will never be able to take back.]]> 384 Samantha Sotto Yambao 0593724992 L.L. 0 to-read 3.78 2025
author: Samantha Sotto Yambao
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.78
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/12/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 197346621 27 Matt Dinniman L.L. 5
I just... omg !!!!!]]> 4.57 2023
author: Matt Dinniman
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.57
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/30
date added: 2024/11/30
shelves:
review:
Holy shit.

I just... omg !!!!!
]]> 206101583 'A church is a sort of wood. A wood is a sort of church. They're the same thing really.'

Nineteen-year-old Merowdis Scott is an unusual girl. She can talk to animals and trees—and she is only ever happy when she is walking in the woods.

One snowy afternoon, out with her dogs and Apple the pig, Merowdis encounters a blackbird and a fox. As darkness falls, a strange figure enters in their midst—and the path of her life is changed forever.

From the internationally bestselling and prize-winning author of Piranesi and Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, an enchanting, beautifully illustrated short story set in the Strange universe. Featuring an introduction by Susanna Clarke and gorgeous illustrations from Victoria Sawdon truly worthy of the magic of this story, this is a mesmerising, must-have addition to any fantasy reader's bookshelf.]]> 64 Susanna Clarke 1639734481 L.L. 2
When it arrived, I realised it was a short story. My mistake for not doing any research� I read this in about 10 minutes, which by itself is not necessarily a bad thing.

This is one of those short stories you’d find in a children’s book, or a collection of stories for children, although instead of a moral message it seems to be a religious one? Something about saints and wanting a baby (despite being a child and not wanting to be married?). A lot of people are talking about how magical and atmospheric this was, but I unfortunately didn’t feel any of that.

It is a pretty little book. I love the copper foils on the cover, and the illustrations are nice.]]> 3.47 2024
author: Susanna Clarke
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.47
book published: 2024
rating: 2
read at: 2024/11/28
date added: 2024/11/28
shelves:
review:
I saw a recommendation for this illustrated hardcover on social media. As I don’t read blurbs, I simply grabbed it the other day when I thought it was a great deal - £6.99 for a hardback book!

When it arrived, I realised it was a short story. My mistake for not doing any research� I read this in about 10 minutes, which by itself is not necessarily a bad thing.

This is one of those short stories you’d find in a children’s book, or a collection of stories for children, although instead of a moral message it seems to be a religious one? Something about saints and wanting a baby (despite being a child and not wanting to be married?). A lot of people are talking about how magical and atmospheric this was, but I unfortunately didn’t feel any of that.

It is a pretty little book. I love the copper foils on the cover, and the illustrations are nice.
]]> 59663913 988 Ken Liu 1784973300 L.L. 0 currently-reading 3.98 2021
author: Ken Liu
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/11/28
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> 75314439 The unmissable follow-up to the highly acclaimed Children of Time and Children of Ruin.

Earth is failing. In a desperate bid to escape, the spaceship Enkidu and its captain, Heorest Holt, carry its precious human cargo to a potential new Eden. Generations later, this fragile colony has managed to survive, eking out a hardy existence. Yet life is tough, and much technological knowledge has been lost.

Then Liff, Holt’s granddaughter, hears whispers that the strangers in town aren’t from neighbouring farmland. That they possess unparalleled technology � and that they've arrived from another world. But not all questions are so easily answered, and their price may be the colony itself.

Children of Memory by Arthur C. Clarke Award-winning author Adrian Tchaikovsky is a far-reaching space opera spanning generations, species and galaxies.]]> 480 Adrian Tchaikovsky 152908718X L.L. 3
It was entirely unpredictable throughout, which has been a staple of this series, and this final book still leaves threads somewhat open-ended. The whole book is a thought experiment, exploring various what-ifs, for better or worse (mostly worse). There are moral and ethical questions galore, defining self, defining sentience, along with a blend of mixed timelines and looped experiences to keep you slightly off-kilter.

It’s another good book from Tchaikovsky, but not my favourite of this trilogy. It swims a bit too deeply in existentialism and philosophy rather than horror-ish sci-fi, though it keeps the theme of community, being greater than the sum of our parts, and camaraderie that I feel like Tchaikovsky is known for.

I’m glad I read the series, for sure, but nothing hit those same highs as Children of Time as far as my personal enjoyment]]> 3.99 2022
author: Adrian Tchaikovsky
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at: 2024/11/28
date added: 2024/11/28
shelves:
review:
A sort of Narnia-Groundhog Day-Matrix blend, that feels solidly fantasy for a good chunk of time before it dives back into philosophical-laden sci-fi.

It was entirely unpredictable throughout, which has been a staple of this series, and this final book still leaves threads somewhat open-ended. The whole book is a thought experiment, exploring various what-ifs, for better or worse (mostly worse). There are moral and ethical questions galore, defining self, defining sentience, along with a blend of mixed timelines and looped experiences to keep you slightly off-kilter.

It’s another good book from Tchaikovsky, but not my favourite of this trilogy. It swims a bit too deeply in existentialism and philosophy rather than horror-ish sci-fi, though it keeps the theme of community, being greater than the sum of our parts, and camaraderie that I feel like Tchaikovsky is known for.

I’m glad I read the series, for sure, but nothing hit those same highs as Children of Time as far as my personal enjoyment
]]> 37941670
Can an unlikely saviour provide the answers to the questions he barely comprehends?]]> 167 Adrian Tchaikovsky 1250197562 L.L. 0 to-read 3.75 2018
author: Adrian Tchaikovsky
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.75
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/11/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 54954578
Every hero must be tested . . .

The Wasp Empire’s armies are on the move � and the city of Tark will be first to feel their might. Salma and Totho prepare for battle, alongside their Ant-kinden brethren. And within Tark’s walls, they’ll face a force greater than any Lowlander has ever seen. Stenwold Maker predicted this threat, and the Empire's secret service now deems him too dangerous to live. So he’s to be eliminated, and his beloved city of Collegium destroyed. For if this centre of learning is lost, it will crush Lowland resistance.

As the Empire's troops continue their relentless advance, their young Emperor pursues another, even darker goal. And his success would trigger a reign of blood lasting a thousand years.

Dragonfly Falling is followed by the third book in the Shadows of the Apt series, Blood of the Mantis.]]> 688 Adrian Tchaikovsky 1529050286 L.L. 5
There are so many characters to love, so many who are a mystery, and so many more still hiding I’m sure. Wasps and Bees, Beetles and Spiders, Dragonflies and Mantids, the breadth of the kinden knows no bounds, and it is just the sort of world building rabbit hole I can fall into for days at a time!

The war is unfolding, with dozens of moving parts, duels, battles, and sieges, trickery and betrayals, ambushes and slow descents into darkness. A thousand small acts build to the conflict, each adding their own wound to the Lowlands everyone is desperate to fight for - some for defence, some to conquer.

I loved this just as much as the first and will be diving eagerly into the third book in the not-too-distant future!]]> 4.18 2009
author: Adrian Tchaikovsky
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2009
rating: 5
read at: 2024/11/21
date added: 2024/11/21
shelves:
review:
A fantastic return to the Lowlands, book two in The Shadows of the Apt is everything a sequel should be - it continues the story of book one, raises the stakes, introduces new lore/characters/points of interest, and the pacing pushes everything along at a good clip.

There are so many characters to love, so many who are a mystery, and so many more still hiding I’m sure. Wasps and Bees, Beetles and Spiders, Dragonflies and Mantids, the breadth of the kinden knows no bounds, and it is just the sort of world building rabbit hole I can fall into for days at a time!

The war is unfolding, with dozens of moving parts, duels, battles, and sieges, trickery and betrayals, ambushes and slow descents into darkness. A thousand small acts build to the conflict, each adding their own wound to the Lowlands everyone is desperate to fight for - some for defence, some to conquer.

I loved this just as much as the first and will be diving eagerly into the third book in the not-too-distant future!
]]> 75568732 Listening time 11 hours 4 minutes
I wasn’t supposed to survive.

The station has been hit. Everyone around me is dead.

I have 11 hours of life support left and no way of contacting Earth.

I’m alone. I’m stranded. I’m desperate.

But I’m alive.

The more of the station I explore, the surer I get that this was no accident. Someone did this, and I don't think they're finished yet.

Making it home feels like an impossible task, but I'm not just fighting for my own life.

I have to protect my family � whatever it takes.

And as long as I’m breathing, this isn't over.

Because whoever did this almost pulled it off� but they made one big mistake:

They left the wrong man standing...]]> Craig A. Falconer L.L. 4
This was a very entertaining and short read that was almost equal parts thriller and sci-fi. It has a definite flavour of Project Hail Mary, but with a very different main character and situation.

We have betrayals and corruption, a fight to survive, several mysteries, a robot and an animal sidekick.

As it is part of a series, the ending leaves some things open for the story to continue, so it wasn’t quite as satisfying as if it had been a standalone.

Great narration of the audiobook, too :D

Oh, and this was my 40th read of the year, hitting my TBR target!]]> 3.93 2022
author: Craig A. Falconer
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/07
date added: 2024/11/07
shelves:
review:
Solid sci-fi that kept me guessing all the way to the end!

This was a very entertaining and short read that was almost equal parts thriller and sci-fi. It has a definite flavour of Project Hail Mary, but with a very different main character and situation.

We have betrayals and corruption, a fight to survive, several mysteries, a robot and an animal sidekick.

As it is part of a series, the ending leaves some things open for the story to continue, so it wasn’t quite as satisfying as if it had been a standalone.

Great narration of the audiobook, too :D

Oh, and this was my 40th read of the year, hitting my TBR target!
]]> 19310143 You, dear reader, continue at your own risk. It is not for the faint of heart—no more so than the study of dragons itself. But such study offers rewards beyond compare: to stand in a dragon's presence, even for the briefest of moments—even at the risk of one's life—is a delight that, once experienced, can never be forgotten. . . .

All the world, from Scirland to the farthest reaches of Eriga, know Isabella, Lady Trent, to be the world's preeminent dragon naturalist. She is the remarkable woman who brought the study of dragons out of the misty shadows of myth and misunderstanding into the clear light of modern science. But before she became the illustrious figure we know today, there was a bookish young woman whose passion for learning, natural history, and, yes, dragons defied the stifling conventions of her day.

Here at last, in her own words, is the true story of a pioneering spirit who risked her reputation, her prospects, and her fragile flesh and bone to satisfy her scientific curiosity; of how she sought true love and happiness despite her lamentable eccentricities; and of her thrilling expedition to the perilous mountains of Vystrana, where she made the first of many historic discoveries that would change the world forever.]]> 10 Marie Brennan L.L. 3
Isabelle’s courtship thankfully is a very small part of this, and we have established relationships for the majority of the book. The narrative style is Isabelle (or Lady Trent, as she later becomes known) telling us the story from some indeterminate future point, which is a style I typically don’t enjoy. It robs all stakes and tension (we know she will survive everything because she’s telling us the story from when she was 19yo from her 50s), so the emotional stakes never really grew for me.

There is some excellent world building, with different locations, cultures, languages, mythologies and legends, which brought a huge amount of depth to this light-hearted and fast-paced story. The different dragon species reminded me of Blood of an Exile by Brian Naslund, and I love how they are part of the ecosystem and see how they impact the environment, people, other animal species etc.

The audiobook was well narrated, with the perfect tone for this type of story.]]> 3.71 2013
author: Marie Brennan
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.71
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/31
date added: 2024/11/01
shelves:
review:
This was a quick, fun read about a woman in high society is more bookish (or ink-nosed) than other ladies, and has an obsession with dragons (I mean, who wouldn’t). There are many species and subspecies of dragons, and young Isabelle’s dream is to see a fully grown wild dragon. There is a naturalist / scientific approach, so dragons are shot and killed and cut open to see how they work (not a huge fan of that), and there is the whole regency-esque, “I must find a husband,� which is what all young female characters in these genres must do.

Isabelle’s courtship thankfully is a very small part of this, and we have established relationships for the majority of the book. The narrative style is Isabelle (or Lady Trent, as she later becomes known) telling us the story from some indeterminate future point, which is a style I typically don’t enjoy. It robs all stakes and tension (we know she will survive everything because she’s telling us the story from when she was 19yo from her 50s), so the emotional stakes never really grew for me.

There is some excellent world building, with different locations, cultures, languages, mythologies and legends, which brought a huge amount of depth to this light-hearted and fast-paced story. The different dragon species reminded me of Blood of an Exile by Brian Naslund, and I love how they are part of the ecosystem and see how they impact the environment, people, other animal species etc.

The audiobook was well narrated, with the perfect tone for this type of story.
]]> 208819132
When Azetla’s battalion is sent into the desert to catch a Sahr devil—one of the famously brutal inhabitants of the region—his tenuous position is threatened. He discovers that there is far more to this mission than catching a fiend. For the Emperor of Maurow, it is a way to prove that he fears nothing, not even devils. For the Emperor’s brother, it is a stepping-stone to rebellion. For Azetla it could be deadly either way, as he is cornered into choosing a side in the coming coup.

But the devil that Azetla finds in the desert is not what anyone expects or wants. As the conspiracy against the Emperor becomes entangled with the simmering ambitions of the desert tribes, Azetla must decide if he’s willing to strike a bargain with a devil in order to survive.

Naturally, she is not to be trusted. But then again, neither is he.]]> 374 J.L. Odom L.L. 0 to-read 4.46
author: J.L. Odom
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.46
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/30
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 1026483 256 Michael H. Payne 0812566750 L.L. 0 to-read 4.06 1998
author: Michael H. Payne
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.06
book published: 1998
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 341735
And when he woke and he was 18 again, with all his memories of the next 25 years intact. He could live his life again, avoiding the mistakes, making money from his knowledge of the future, seeking happiness.

Until he dies at 43 and wakes up back in college again...]]> 311 Ken Grimwood 068816112X L.L. 0 to-read 4.16 1987
author: Ken Grimwood
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.16
book published: 1987
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 25667920 A broken wing.
A stolen country.

The last job didn't end well.

Years go by, and scars fade, but memories only fester. For the animals of the Captain's company, survival has meant keeping a low profile, building a new life, and trying to forget the war they lost. But now the Captain's whiskers are twitching at the idea of evening the score.]]> 226 Daniel Polansky 0765384000 L.L. 0 to-read 3.72 2015
author: Daniel Polansky
name: L.L.
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> 133454 307 Steven Brust 360893264X L.L. 0 to-read 4.15 1983
author: Steven Brust
name: L.L.
average rating: 4.15
book published: 1983
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]>