Anie's bookshelf: all en-US Wed, 02 Apr 2025 12:42:09 -0700 60 Anie's bookshelf: all 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[The Dragonbone Chair (Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn, #1)]]> 317449
Only a small, scattered group, the League of the Scroll, recognizes the true danger awaiting Osten Ard. And to Simon - a castle scullion unknowingly apprenticed to a member of this League - will get the task of spearheading the quest for the solution to a riddle that offers the only hope of salvation, a ridde of long-lost swords of power...and a quest that will see him fleeing and facing enemies straight out of a legend-maker's worst nightmares!]]> 783 Tad Williams 0886773849 Anie 0 will-get-back-to, to-read 3.99 1988 The Dragonbone Chair (Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn, #1)
author: Tad Williams
name: Anie
average rating: 3.99
book published: 1988
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: will-get-back-to, to-read
review:

]]> The Count of Monte Cristo 7131 1488 Alexandre Dumas 037576030X Anie 5 I finally finished this and I LOVE IT.

✔️ to the second ‘everest� book this year, even tho this actually took me all freaking year.]]> 4.34 1846 The Count of Monte Cristo
author: Alexandre Dumas
name: Anie
average rating: 4.34
book published: 1846
rating: 5
read at: 2025/04/02
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: classic-literature, 2025-classics-book-club-picks
review:
I FREAKING DID IT, YOU GUYS.
I finally finished this and I LOVE IT.

✔️ to the second ‘everest� book this year, even tho this actually took me all freaking year.
]]> Nightshade (Nightshade, #1) 59479184 A love so forbidden, it would shake the heavens.

My father called them messengers.
He once told me they walked among us, and that somewhere in this dark and godless city, there shined a faint sliver of hope. I had only to look for the signs.

Well, I’ve spent my whole life investigating the inexplicable, and all I've found are the unsettling vestiges of iniquity - the evidence of another world shrouded by the obscure. Purgatory to some, where depravity hides in shadows, and girls like me are little more than delicious bites of temptation.

Others call it Nightshade.

This peculiar place is where I first met the cold and callous recluse living in a decaying cliffside cathedral. Jericho Van Croix is the epitome of everything I’ve been told to fear. A raven-winged harbinger who wears intrigue like a warm black cloak. An enigma that I’m determined to unravel � even if it means getting closer than I should.

One touch is forbidden. Even so much as a kiss would be my demise. But the sin on his lips burns me up like a wild flame, and his growing infatuation weakens my resolve.

Giving him what he wants, though, will mean no chance for redemption, or escape. What's worse is, the signs I’ve followed yet failed to see all these years begin to unmask a terrifying reality:

That falling may be my only saving grace.]]> 676 Keri Lake Anie 0 to-read, will-get-back-to 3.93 2021 Nightshade (Nightshade, #1)
author: Keri Lake
name: Anie
average rating: 3.93
book published: 2021
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: to-read, will-get-back-to
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Memories of Tomorrow: Book One of The Tales of Aerym]]> 217963913
Now, years after he watched everyone and everything he had ever known burn to ash, Aerym finds himself with his sole remaining companion, Jasper. Lost and without purpose, they bide their time until the inevitable comes; when Aerym is warned of their imminent demise... Yet even now he doubts if he's strong enough to combat what's to come.

With little hope left for him and his friend, Aerym resigns to go far to the south, to the lands where magic is as common as war. To where he might get answers, and, if he's lucky, strength enough to gain control of his own life.

Memories and prophecies guide them on their path to salvation, but the past lies, and the future speaks only in tragedies.

Is it truly a blessing to know what's coming even if you're powerless to stop it?]]> 313 Noah Isaacs Anie 0 to-read 4.65 2024 Memories of Tomorrow: Book One of The Tales of Aerym
author: Noah Isaacs
name: Anie
average rating: 4.65
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Sunrise on the Reaping (The Hunger Games, #0.5)]]> 214331246 When you’ve been set up to lose everything you love, what is there left to fight for?

As the day dawns on the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes.

Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves.

When Haymitch’s name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He’s torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 tributes: a young friend who’s nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he’s been set up to fail. But there’s something in him that wants to fight . . . and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena.]]> 382 Suzanne Collins 1546171460 Anie 3 4.67 2025 Sunrise on the Reaping (The Hunger Games, #0.5)
author: Suzanne Collins
name: Anie
average rating: 4.67
book published: 2025
rating: 3
read at: 2025/03/19
date added: 2025/03/19
shelves:
review:
Review to come. I have many, many thoughts to organize.
]]> Goblin Market 59849909 One sister must save the other from the goblin prince in this rich, spooky, and delightfully dark fantasy!

Lizzie and Minka are sisters, but they’re nothing alike: Minka is outgoing and cheerful, while Lizzie is shy and sensitive. But when Minka is charmed and ensnared by a prince of the zduszes—the goblins—and taken to his dark forest home, Lizzie will have to draw on reserves of strength she never knew she had and follow her sister into a world of dreams, danger, and death.

Rich worldbuilding inspired by Polish folklore combines with a tender sister story for an original and compelling fantasy-horror adventure.]]> 240 Diane Zahler 0823450813 Anie 0 to-read, will-get-back-to 3.83 2022 Goblin Market
author: Diane Zahler
name: Anie
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/18
shelves: to-read, will-get-back-to
review:

]]> Thrum 210835673 Meg Smitherman Anie 5 SFF Insiders
For now: Smitherman always leaves me asking: "wtf did I just read" in the best way possible.]]> 3.98 2024 Thrum
author: Meg Smitherman
name: Anie
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2025/03/17
date added: 2025/03/17
shelves:
review:
Full Review to Come on SFF Insiders
For now: Smitherman always leaves me asking: "wtf did I just read" in the best way possible.
]]> <![CDATA[Jade City (The Green Bone Saga, #1)]]> 43587154 JADE CITY is a gripping Godfather-esque saga of intergenerational blood feuds, vicious politics, magic, and kungfu.

The Kaul family is one of two crime syndicates that control the island of Kekon. It's the only place in the world that produces rare magical jade, which grants those with the right training and heritage superhuman abilities.

The Green Bone clans of honorable jade-wearing warriors once protected the island from foreign invasion--but nowadays, in a bustling post-war metropolis full of fast cars and foreign money, Green Bone families like the Kauls are primarily involved in commerce, construction, and the everyday upkeep of the districts under their protection.

When the simmering tension between the Kauls and their greatest rivals erupts into open violence in the streets, the outcome of this clan war will determine the fate of all Green Bones and the future of Kekon itself.]]> 540 Fonda Lee 0316440884 Anie 0 currently-reading 4.06 2017 Jade City (The Green Bone Saga, #1)
author: Fonda Lee
name: Anie
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2017
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/11
shelves: currently-reading
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Deathless One (The Gravesinger, #1)]]> 220160831 A princess murdered at the altar makes a deal with the god of death for vengeance and to save her people in this first in a unique romantasy trilogy from USA TODAY bestselling author Emma Hamm.

Jessamine was raised to be a leader for her people, but when the land is overrun by an incurable plague, she must enter a political marriage to save them all. A union that should have brought hope only brings death as her new husband murders her at the wedding altar and seizes the throne.

But her death is just the beginning. Her spirit is met by the Deathless One, a god of death yearning to return to the mortal plane, and he needs her help. The two of them make a deal—her life and the return of her kingdom in exchange for his resurrection. But the Deathless One is a known trickster, and a deal with him is one made in blood.

Jessamine knows the Deathless One is a dangerous ally, but the longer they work together, the more she wants him and the less she can stay away. As their connection deepens, soon she wonders if she even wants this contract to end. Perhaps the more appealing throne is the one by his side, but she’d have to turn her back on her people to get it.]]> 336 Emma Hamm 1668063123 Anie 0 to-read 3.82 The Deathless One (The Gravesinger, #1)
author: Emma Hamm
name: Anie
average rating: 3.82
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil]]> 215020997 London, 1837.
Boston, 2019.

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

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

And all of them grow teeth.]]> 560 Victoria E. Schwab 1035064642 Anie 0 to-read 4.38 2025 Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil
author: Victoria E. Schwab
name: Anie
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Katabasis 210223811 Two graduate students must set aside their rivalry and journey to Hell to save their professor’s soul, perhaps at the cost of their own.

Alice Law has only ever had one goal: to become one of the brightest minds in the field of Magick. She has sacrificed everything to make that a reality—her pride, her health, her love life, and most definitely her sanity. All to work with Professor Jacob Grimes at Cambridge, the greatest magician in the world—that is, until he dies in a magical accident that could possibly be her fault.

Grimes is now in Hell, and she’s going in after him. Because his recommendation could hold her very future in his now incorporeal hands, and even death is not going to stop the pursuit of her dreams. Nor will the fact that her rival, Peter Murdoch, has come to the same conclusion.]]> 400 R.F. Kuang Anie 0 to-read 4.12 2025 Katabasis
author: R.F. Kuang
name: Anie
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Witch Roads (The Witch Roads, #1)]]> 217388109 Status is hereditary, class is bestowed, trust must be earned.

When an arrogant prince (and his equally arrogant entourage) gets stuck in Orledder Halt as part of brutal political intrigue, competent and sunny deputy courier Elen―once a child slave meant to shield noblemen from the poisonous Pall―is assigned to guide him through the hills to reach his destination.

When she warns him not to enter the haunted Spires, the prince doesn’t heed her advice, and the man who emerges from the towers isn’t the same man who entered.

The journey that follows is fraught with danger. Can a group taught to ignore and despise the lower classes survive with a mere deputy courier as their guide?

The Witch Roads is the latest epic novel by fan favorite, Kate Elliott.]]> 448 Kate Elliott 1250338611 Anie 0 to-read 4.33 2025 The Witch Roads (The Witch Roads, #1)
author: Kate Elliott
name: Anie
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Knight and the Moth (The Stonewater Kingdom, #1)]]> 205335957
Sybil Delling has spent nine years dreaming of having no dreams at all. Like the other foundling girls who traded a decade of service for a home in the great cathedral, Sybil is a Diviner. In her dreams she receives visions from six unearthly figures known as Omens. From them, she can predict terrible things before they occur, and lords and common folk alike travel across the kingdom of Traum's windswept moors to learn their futures by her dreams.

Just as she and her sister Diviners near the end of their service, a mysterious knight arrives at the cathedral. Rude, heretical, and devilishly handsome, the knight Rodrick has no respect for Sybil's visions. But when Sybil's fellow Diviners begin to vanish one by one, she has no choice but to seek his help in finding them. For the world outside the cathedral's cloister is wrought with peril. Only the gods have the answers she is seeking, and as much as she'd rather avoid Rodrick's dark eyes and sharp tongue, only a heretic can defeat a god.]]> 400 Rachel Gillig 0356522962 Anie 0 to-read 4.61 2025 The Knight and the Moth (The Stonewater Kingdom, #1)
author: Rachel Gillig
name: Anie
average rating: 4.61
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/03/02
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Anathema (The Eating Woods, #1)]]> 209741142 A spellbinding gothic dark fantasy about a shunned woman who is forced beyond the mortal realm's forbidden boundary, into a terrifying world of cursed souls and grotesque creatures.

Only the banished know what lies beyond the woods ...

There are whispers about what lurks in Witch Knell—the forest where sinners go to die. The villagers call it The Eating Woods because what’s taken is never given back. Only those who’ve lost their senses would dare to go near it.

Or the banished.

Maevyth Bronwick knows better than to breach the misty labyrinth of trees, but a tragic turn of events compels her beyond the archway of bones, to a boundary no mortal has crossed before. One that cloaks a dark and fantastical world that’s as dangerous as it is alluring.

It’s there that he dwells, the cursed lord of Eidolon. The one tasked to keep her hidden from the magehood that seeks to crucify her in the name of an arcane prophesy. Zevander Rydainn, known to his prey as The Scorpion, is the coldest, most calculated assassin in all of Aethyria and he’d sooner toss his feisty ward to a pack of vicious fyredrakes than keep her safe.

If only he could.

Maevyth’s blood is the key to breaking his despised curse and vanquishing the slumbering evil in Witch Knell. Unfortunately for Lord Rydainn, fate has other plans for the irresistible little enchantress. And his growing obsession with her threatens to destroy everything.

Including himself.

Anathema is a full-length, gothic dark fantasy, the first book in The Eating Woods duology. Perfect for readers who enjoy a plot-heavy and atmospheric story with a unique magic system, a slow-burn romance and a touch of horror.]]> 688 Keri Lake Anie 4 Review to come! 4.14 2024 Anathema (The Eating Woods, #1)
author: Keri Lake
name: Anie
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/28
date added: 2025/02/28
shelves:
review:
Review to come!
]]> <![CDATA[Eldritch (The Eating Woods, #2)]]> 219866773 Keri Lake Anie 0 to-read 4.62 2025 Eldritch (The Eating Woods, #2)
author: Keri Lake
name: Anie
average rating: 4.62
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/28
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Cello's Gate (The Sky Pirates of Imperia, #1)]]> 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 Anie 0 to-read 4.38 Cello's Gate (The Sky Pirates of Imperia, #1)
author: Maurice Africh
name: Anie
average rating: 4.38
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/25
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Two Twisted Crowns (The Shepherd King, #2)]]> 63910262 In the luscious, dark sequel to One Dark Window, Elspeth must face the consequences of what she's wrought - perfect for readers of Hannah Whitten's For the Wolf and Alexis Henderson's The Year of the Witching.

Elspeth and Ravyn have gathered most of the twelve Providence Cards, but the last, and most important one remains to be found: The Twin Alders.

If they are going to find it before the Solstice and cure the kingdom of the dark magic infecting it, they will need to journey beyond the dangerous mist-cloaked forest that surrounds their kingdom.

And the only one who can lead them there is the monster that shares Elspeth's head. The Nightmare. And he's not eager to share any longer.]]> 437 Rachel Gillig 0356519503 Anie 5
Picking up right where One Dark Window concluded, this duology is everything I was hoping it would be and the hype is absolutely justified. And this time, we get more than the first allowed us: more POVS!


Characters
Last time we had only Elspeth to rely on as our narrator, but in Two Twisted Crowns, Gillig gave us exactly what I had been hoping for: more points of view. This time not only do we have Elspeth and the Nightmare living in her head, but we get to see things through the eyes of Ravyn Yew and Renelm “Elm� Rowen.

“But I do want it said, loud enough so everyone hears, that I am nothing like Hauth.�

I was very happy for this change, even though the perspective alters between first and third person, it blends so well and is woven into the story in a way that brings us back to our original narrator in a deliciously dark way. I especially liked seeing things happen with Elm, since our beloved band has been mostly separated during the search for the Twin Alders Card. Readers got to see a side of the broody, wayward prince that we didn’t before and it made me like him as a character more. I even gained a respect for Ione, which I never thought I would do.

Hauth is still a prick, and I curse the day he started walking on the page again, because all he does is make me want to choke him � as I know Elm wanted to do very badly as well.

Because we already met these characters in the first book, the second installment was all about developing these characters further. Not only did we know our main characters better but we got to know the Nightmare on a deeper, more intimate level that I praise Gillig for indulging us in.

“Surely you didn’t think it was sheep I shepherded.�


Atmosphere
“Yews do not break…they bend�

The charms of this series are ever present, and continued on in a great way. While the setting is still the same, we get a deeper look in the woods and the mist, and even get a vivid peak into the mindspace of the Shepherd King. The magic had me drunk and wanting more books like this.


Writing Style
Again, this sequel gave us new perspectives that only made the story that much broader. Gillig certainly has a wonderful way with words, stitching eloquent and quote-worthy phrases in scenes of peril and romance all in one. The back-and-forth from first to third person drew me in, and was done with such an ease that it was easy to fall into the pages of this story.


Plot
Just like One Dark Window, the plot takes center stage. Now that the gang has all but the Twin Alders Card, Ravyn is sent out into the mist to find it � along with his sister Jespyr, two spare Destriers, and Elspeth/The Nightmare. Elspeth is stuck in the depths of her mind, but in her place sits the Nightmare front and center (and as snarky and confounding as ever.) They face barters and tribulations in the mist they never expected.

Left behind by command of the king is Elm, forced to endure his father and the demands of the court pressed upon him. But he finds solace in Ione as he helps her find her lost Maiden Card. She is trapped in its grip, but while it may be stripping her of all emotion and feeling, it’s saving her life as she sits in a den of wolves.


Intrigue
To say I flipped page upon page is an understatement. There is so much at stake on both ends of this story that I couldn’t help but fervently seek the last page. There’s a lot going on, and there is no shortage of intrigue.


Excitement
Excited to talk about this book is another understatement. While everyone was reading this duology months ago, I kept telling myself “I’ll get to it soon! My TBR is calling!� And what a fool I was. I should have put everything down and picked this series up immediately. I loved it all to say the least, and I would absolutely recommend it to readers looking for something unique in the fantasy/romantasy realm. The romances are not center stage, but they are not exactly closed-door, so (as I always do) I caution a younger crowd or anyone not interested in those scenes, but I also wholeheartedly believe the few that exist can be skimmed over in favor of reading this series, and this sequel in particular. ]]> 4.39 2023 Two Twisted Crowns (The Shepherd King, #2)
author: Rachel Gillig
name: Anie
average rating: 4.39
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/09
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

Picking up right where One Dark Window concluded, this duology is everything I was hoping it would be and the hype is absolutely justified. And this time, we get more than the first allowed us: more POVS!


Characters
Last time we had only Elspeth to rely on as our narrator, but in Two Twisted Crowns, Gillig gave us exactly what I had been hoping for: more points of view. This time not only do we have Elspeth and the Nightmare living in her head, but we get to see things through the eyes of Ravyn Yew and Renelm “Elm� Rowen.

“But I do want it said, loud enough so everyone hears, that I am nothing like Hauth.�

I was very happy for this change, even though the perspective alters between first and third person, it blends so well and is woven into the story in a way that brings us back to our original narrator in a deliciously dark way. I especially liked seeing things happen with Elm, since our beloved band has been mostly separated during the search for the Twin Alders Card. Readers got to see a side of the broody, wayward prince that we didn’t before and it made me like him as a character more. I even gained a respect for Ione, which I never thought I would do.

Hauth is still a prick, and I curse the day he started walking on the page again, because all he does is make me want to choke him � as I know Elm wanted to do very badly as well.

Because we already met these characters in the first book, the second installment was all about developing these characters further. Not only did we know our main characters better but we got to know the Nightmare on a deeper, more intimate level that I praise Gillig for indulging us in.

“Surely you didn’t think it was sheep I shepherded.�


Atmosphere
“Yews do not break…they bend�

The charms of this series are ever present, and continued on in a great way. While the setting is still the same, we get a deeper look in the woods and the mist, and even get a vivid peak into the mindspace of the Shepherd King. The magic had me drunk and wanting more books like this.


Writing Style
Again, this sequel gave us new perspectives that only made the story that much broader. Gillig certainly has a wonderful way with words, stitching eloquent and quote-worthy phrases in scenes of peril and romance all in one. The back-and-forth from first to third person drew me in, and was done with such an ease that it was easy to fall into the pages of this story.


Plot
Just like One Dark Window, the plot takes center stage. Now that the gang has all but the Twin Alders Card, Ravyn is sent out into the mist to find it � along with his sister Jespyr, two spare Destriers, and Elspeth/The Nightmare. Elspeth is stuck in the depths of her mind, but in her place sits the Nightmare front and center (and as snarky and confounding as ever.) They face barters and tribulations in the mist they never expected.

Left behind by command of the king is Elm, forced to endure his father and the demands of the court pressed upon him. But he finds solace in Ione as he helps her find her lost Maiden Card. She is trapped in its grip, but while it may be stripping her of all emotion and feeling, it’s saving her life as she sits in a den of wolves.


Intrigue
To say I flipped page upon page is an understatement. There is so much at stake on both ends of this story that I couldn’t help but fervently seek the last page. There’s a lot going on, and there is no shortage of intrigue.


Excitement
Excited to talk about this book is another understatement. While everyone was reading this duology months ago, I kept telling myself “I’ll get to it soon! My TBR is calling!� And what a fool I was. I should have put everything down and picked this series up immediately. I loved it all to say the least, and I would absolutely recommend it to readers looking for something unique in the fantasy/romantasy realm. The romances are not center stage, but they are not exactly closed-door, so (as I always do) I caution a younger crowd or anyone not interested in those scenes, but I also wholeheartedly believe the few that exist can be skimmed over in favor of reading this series, and this sequel in particular.
]]> <![CDATA[Quicksilver (Fae & Alchemy, #1)]]> 217536270
In the land of the unforgiving desert, there isn't much a girl wouldn't do for a glass of water.

Twenty-four-year-old Saeris Fane is good at keeping secrets. No one knows about the strange powers she possesses, or the fact that she has been picking pockets and stealing from the Undying Queen's reservoirs for as long as she can remember.

But a secret is like a knot. Sooner or later, it is bound to come undone.

When Saeris comes face-to-face with Death himself, she inadvertently re-opens a gateway between realms and is transported to a land of ice and snow. The Fae have always been the stuff of myth, of legend, of nightmares... but it turns out they're real, and Saeris has landed herself in the middle of a centuries-long conflict that might just get her killed.

The first of her kind to tread the frozen mountains of Yvelia in over a thousand years, Saeris mistakenly binds herself to Kingfisher, a handsome Fae warrior, who has secrets and nefarious agendas of his own. He will use her Alchemist's magic to protect his people, no matter what it costs him . . . or her.

Death has a name. It is Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate. His past is murky. His attitude stinks. And he's the only way Saeris is going to make it home.]]> 624 Callie Hart 1538774194 Anie 4
“I am the thing that exists on the other side of dark. I’m the thing that puts the fear of gods into the monsters who would eat you bones and all.�

I was quickly sucked into Quicksilver after being on a short pause from fantasy reads. I was looking for exactly what this book is: a romantasy with all my favorite tropes, a dark and broody shadow daddy, and a chosen one of epic proportions.

Characters
A heady mix of both character-driven and plot-driven, I found myself falling in love with all the characters, even the villains. While some might find the over-indulgence of tropes cheesy, I melted right into them like a fondue made just for me. Saeris is strong-willed right from the start and doesn’t take a single shit from anyone, proud of who she is and where she comes from � so much it almost brings her to her own death. Little does she know her weakness for her family and a misunderstanding of her powers becomes a strength she feeds on. When she falls into the quicksilver, her life changes forever.

But she’s not alone. There to catch her in her fall from grace is the ever-feared and revered Kingfisher � many names follow him but one thing remains true: he doesn’t believe in himself nearly as much as he should. He’s a perpetual grump, but one Saeris can’t seem to stay away from.


Atmosphere
Who doesn’t love transcending worlds and a now-classic Fae Realm setting? I was enraptured by the beginning, where the reader is introduced to Zilvaren: a veritable wasteland with two blazing suns that never set, a deliciously evil Queen that never dies, and a rebellion forming right under her nose. Then, when we are thrust into the fae realm of Yvelia, it’s the exact ethereal setting, seasoned with the dangers any fantastical arena hides in its wooden depths. I felt all the feels, and want more of this setting. Plus, looking for a dark labyrinth and demonic creatures from your nightmares? Check. We got ‘em.


Writing Style
Hart is most certainly writing for an older crowd. There are graphic fight scene and explicit love scenes that are not at all geared toward a young audience, BUT the ease at which she writes sucks you into the pages. Quicksilver is all first-person POV, and brings the reader directly into the action.


Plot/Logic
“It isn’t disease that’s contagious in my ward, Captain. It’s dissent.�

Again, while this is a good mix of character and plot-driven, the plot is where the story shines, in my opinion. It’s rebellion, it’s fighting scenes, it’s love scenes, it’s trope-filled: but that’s what I enjoyed about it most. While I may feel like I had read this story before, it’s the comforting familiarity that wrapped me up. Alchemy is the name of the game within Saeris, and combined with the magical powers of Kingfisher, they are a wicked and combustible team against the forces of oppression from multiple worlds.

The two are pressured together, reluctantly at first, and then willfully. They make sense together.


Intrigue
From start to finish this book is filled with tension and absolutely intriguing. I’m very eager to continue on with the series, the next one coming out later this year. Saeris is about to embark on a completely new set of obstacles, and after this read: I need to know where it goes. A great example of “first of the series� excitement.


Excitement
I read this through the night, in one sitting. I’d say I was very excited by it, and have been telling people about it non-stop (with the caveat that it is not for people who prefer closed-door fantasy.) I couldn’t put it down, and Kingfisher has definitely made it onto my book boyfriend list. Absolute recommendation for anyone looking for a modern romantasy.]]> 4.30 2024 Quicksilver (Fae & Alchemy, #1)
author: Callie Hart
name: Anie
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/07
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

“I am the thing that exists on the other side of dark. I’m the thing that puts the fear of gods into the monsters who would eat you bones and all.�

I was quickly sucked into Quicksilver after being on a short pause from fantasy reads. I was looking for exactly what this book is: a romantasy with all my favorite tropes, a dark and broody shadow daddy, and a chosen one of epic proportions.

Characters
A heady mix of both character-driven and plot-driven, I found myself falling in love with all the characters, even the villains. While some might find the over-indulgence of tropes cheesy, I melted right into them like a fondue made just for me. Saeris is strong-willed right from the start and doesn’t take a single shit from anyone, proud of who she is and where she comes from � so much it almost brings her to her own death. Little does she know her weakness for her family and a misunderstanding of her powers becomes a strength she feeds on. When she falls into the quicksilver, her life changes forever.

But she’s not alone. There to catch her in her fall from grace is the ever-feared and revered Kingfisher � many names follow him but one thing remains true: he doesn’t believe in himself nearly as much as he should. He’s a perpetual grump, but one Saeris can’t seem to stay away from.


Atmosphere
Who doesn’t love transcending worlds and a now-classic Fae Realm setting? I was enraptured by the beginning, where the reader is introduced to Zilvaren: a veritable wasteland with two blazing suns that never set, a deliciously evil Queen that never dies, and a rebellion forming right under her nose. Then, when we are thrust into the fae realm of Yvelia, it’s the exact ethereal setting, seasoned with the dangers any fantastical arena hides in its wooden depths. I felt all the feels, and want more of this setting. Plus, looking for a dark labyrinth and demonic creatures from your nightmares? Check. We got ‘em.


Writing Style
Hart is most certainly writing for an older crowd. There are graphic fight scene and explicit love scenes that are not at all geared toward a young audience, BUT the ease at which she writes sucks you into the pages. Quicksilver is all first-person POV, and brings the reader directly into the action.


Plot/Logic
“It isn’t disease that’s contagious in my ward, Captain. It’s dissent.�

Again, while this is a good mix of character and plot-driven, the plot is where the story shines, in my opinion. It’s rebellion, it’s fighting scenes, it’s love scenes, it’s trope-filled: but that’s what I enjoyed about it most. While I may feel like I had read this story before, it’s the comforting familiarity that wrapped me up. Alchemy is the name of the game within Saeris, and combined with the magical powers of Kingfisher, they are a wicked and combustible team against the forces of oppression from multiple worlds.

The two are pressured together, reluctantly at first, and then willfully. They make sense together.


Intrigue
From start to finish this book is filled with tension and absolutely intriguing. I’m very eager to continue on with the series, the next one coming out later this year. Saeris is about to embark on a completely new set of obstacles, and after this read: I need to know where it goes. A great example of “first of the series� excitement.


Excitement
I read this through the night, in one sitting. I’d say I was very excited by it, and have been telling people about it non-stop (with the caveat that it is not for people who prefer closed-door fantasy.) I couldn’t put it down, and Kingfisher has definitely made it onto my book boyfriend list. Absolute recommendation for anyone looking for a modern romantasy.
]]> <![CDATA[The Rarkyn's Familiar (The Rarkyn Trilogy, #1)]]> 54704737 An orphan bent on revenge. A monster searching for freedom. A forbidden pact that binds their fates together.

Lyss has heard her father’s screams; smelled the iron-tang of his blood. She’s witnessed his execution.

And plotted her revenge.

Then a violent encounter traps Lyss in a blood-pact with a rarkyn from the otherworld and imbues her with the monster’s forbidden magic. A magic that will erode her sanity. To break the pact, she and the rarkyn must journey to the heart of the Empire. All that stands in their way are the mountains and the Empire’s soldiers—and each other.

But horrors await them on the road, horrors even rarkyns fear. The most terrifying monster isn’t the one Lyss travels with...

It’s the one that’s awoken inside her.

Monsters of a feather flock together

2023 Sir Julius Vogel Winner for Best Youth Novel
2022 Foreward INDIES Book of the Year Bronze Winner for Young Adult Fiction
2022 Aurealis Award Finalist for Best Young Adult Novel
2022 Indie Ink Award Winner (Best Friendship)
2022 Indie Ink Award Winner (Prettiest Prose)
2022 Indie Ink Award Winner (Side Character MVP)
2022 Indies Today Finalist]]> 359 Nikky Lee 1953539947 Anie 5
I first found out about this book thanks to the SFF Insider Discord! The author had posted a link to a sale on the first of this series, and from the cover alone I knew I wanted to read it. I’m so glad I did because this stands as one of my favorite reads of the month. Lyss and her reluctant companion The Rarkyn must travel through mountains, burning towns, and Order strongholds to get to the great city of Illredus in hopes of ridding themselves of a blood pact and hopefully all before Lyss loses her mind to the magic of it all.


Characters
We are introduced to the story by way of a mysterious creature that is known as a rarkyn � a beast of the Otherworld, trapped in the human realm. A rockslide has crushed his captor under rubble, but he is still bound by magic that suppresses his ability to escape.

Then along comes Lyss, who in her foolishness and naivety attempts to release him from his binds. But all backfires when the clutches of their combined magic binds them in a blood pact. I really like Lyss. She seems timid but she proves to be anything but as the story progresses, she grows into her own as they attempt to escape the Order that would see them both dead.


Atmosphere
I really enjoyed the setting and the world-building of this story. It’s unique and brings beast and girl together on a mission that would release them both from the tethers that bind them. While the rarkyn has been hunted and forced to stay in this realm, Lyss is anchored by her own past and the pressures she had placed on herself her whole life to be better than anyone expects from her.


Writing Style
Lee has a great and unique storytelling voice in the young adult fantasy space. She has presented us with a magical story that all readers can enjoy, staying true to the adventure fantasy with only a very soft romance on the fringes of the tale. I would only caution the very younger side of the spectrum in the young adult range, as there are some graphic action scenes. But overall, I think readers both younger and older can enjoy this first-of-a-series.


Plot
With the blood pact threatening to turn Lyss against her own mind, she and the rarkyn embark on an adventure across the kingdom to seek out the help of stronger mancers of magic in the city of Illredus. There is nothing easy about their trek, and they are faced with many trying times and forces against their control. On top of that, they are being hunted, not just by the Order but also by the very man who trapped the rarkyn to begin with � rarkyn are intensely sought after for their Otherwordly magic and neither of them are safe on this trip. I turned page after page to see them on their way.


Intrigue
The uniqueness of this story pulled me right in from the very first page. There is a spring of world-building and character development that immersed me in a story I couldn’t put down. The Order on their tails was thrilling and the magic at word was enthralling. I was especially eager to see Lyss transform on the page from a timid girl to someone worth her salt, and while this does end on a bit of a cliffhanger (kind of par for the course in a series) this took me on a ride I won’t soon forget.


Excitement
Excitement is an understatement! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am so eager to get into the pages of the next book! I am giving it some time for the author to release more about the third and final book in this trilogy, but I highly recommend this to all readers looking for an action and magic-packed adventure fantasy.]]> 4.37 The Rarkyn's Familiar (The Rarkyn Trilogy, #1)
author: Nikky Lee
name: Anie
average rating: 4.37
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/26
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

I first found out about this book thanks to the SFF Insider Discord! The author had posted a link to a sale on the first of this series, and from the cover alone I knew I wanted to read it. I’m so glad I did because this stands as one of my favorite reads of the month. Lyss and her reluctant companion The Rarkyn must travel through mountains, burning towns, and Order strongholds to get to the great city of Illredus in hopes of ridding themselves of a blood pact and hopefully all before Lyss loses her mind to the magic of it all.


Characters
We are introduced to the story by way of a mysterious creature that is known as a rarkyn � a beast of the Otherworld, trapped in the human realm. A rockslide has crushed his captor under rubble, but he is still bound by magic that suppresses his ability to escape.

Then along comes Lyss, who in her foolishness and naivety attempts to release him from his binds. But all backfires when the clutches of their combined magic binds them in a blood pact. I really like Lyss. She seems timid but she proves to be anything but as the story progresses, she grows into her own as they attempt to escape the Order that would see them both dead.


Atmosphere
I really enjoyed the setting and the world-building of this story. It’s unique and brings beast and girl together on a mission that would release them both from the tethers that bind them. While the rarkyn has been hunted and forced to stay in this realm, Lyss is anchored by her own past and the pressures she had placed on herself her whole life to be better than anyone expects from her.


Writing Style
Lee has a great and unique storytelling voice in the young adult fantasy space. She has presented us with a magical story that all readers can enjoy, staying true to the adventure fantasy with only a very soft romance on the fringes of the tale. I would only caution the very younger side of the spectrum in the young adult range, as there are some graphic action scenes. But overall, I think readers both younger and older can enjoy this first-of-a-series.


Plot
With the blood pact threatening to turn Lyss against her own mind, she and the rarkyn embark on an adventure across the kingdom to seek out the help of stronger mancers of magic in the city of Illredus. There is nothing easy about their trek, and they are faced with many trying times and forces against their control. On top of that, they are being hunted, not just by the Order but also by the very man who trapped the rarkyn to begin with � rarkyn are intensely sought after for their Otherwordly magic and neither of them are safe on this trip. I turned page after page to see them on their way.


Intrigue
The uniqueness of this story pulled me right in from the very first page. There is a spring of world-building and character development that immersed me in a story I couldn’t put down. The Order on their tails was thrilling and the magic at word was enthralling. I was especially eager to see Lyss transform on the page from a timid girl to someone worth her salt, and while this does end on a bit of a cliffhanger (kind of par for the course in a series) this took me on a ride I won’t soon forget.


Excitement
Excitement is an understatement! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am so eager to get into the pages of the next book! I am giving it some time for the author to release more about the third and final book in this trilogy, but I highly recommend this to all readers looking for an action and magic-packed adventure fantasy.
]]> <![CDATA[One Dark Window (The Shepherd King, #1)]]> 58340706
Elspeth Spindle needs more than luck to stay safe in the eerie, mist-locked kingdom of Blunder—she needs a monster. She calls him the Nightmare, an ancient, mercurial spirit trapped in her head. He protects her. He keeps her secrets.

But nothing comes for free, especially magic.

When Elspeth meets a mysterious highwayman on the forest road, her life takes a drastic turn. Thrust into a world of shadow and deception, she joins a dangerous quest to cure Blunder from the dark magic infecting it. And the highwayman? He just so happens to be the King’s nephew, Captain of the most dangerous men in Blunder…and guilty of high treason.

Together they must gather twelve Providence Cards—the keys to the cure. But as the stakes heighten and their undeniable attraction intensifies, Elspeth is forced to face her darkest secret yet: the Nightmare is slowly taking over her mind. And she might not be able to stop him.]]> 399 Rachel Gillig 0316312487 Anie 5
A few words before I start this review: I’m kicking myself in the shins for not starting this duology when everyone was first recommending it to me. I feel the FOMO now, even though I am already devouring the second book. Another book from this week that I read in one sitting, could barely put down, and am now downright obsessed with.

“Be wary. Be clever. Be good.�


Characters
Elspeth Spindle is infected with magic from an all-consuming mist set on the land, Blunder, by the vengeful Spirit of the Wood. But more than being illegally alive, she harbors another dark secret that she has carried since she was nine years old: she is inhabited by a Nightmare. Her family has kept the secrets they know about her hidden, but all is coming to light.

I love Elspeth. She seems quiet and unassuming yet she is anything but. It’s just what has kept her alive and out of the hungry-for-blood sights on King Rowan (who I honestly got a bit of a laugh out of because his first name is QUERCUS. It means oak in Latin, and plant names, especially tree names, are traditional in this world, but come on - could you take a king seriously with that name? Shade � given from me, a humble reader � King Quercus. To say I dislike him is an understatement) and the ever-prying hands of the Physicians - the ones set out to find and confirm infected people, sending them to their inevitable deaths. When she is overtaken by highwaymen one night in the woods, her life goes from being quiet and out-of-sight to thrust into a rebellious scheme to gather all the Cards of Providence (I will go into this deeper next.)

Her magic skill of being able to see who carries Cards entwines her with a band of royals hellbent on their mission to collect the cards and rid Blunder of the infectious mist. From this she collides with Ravyn Yew, the King’s Captain of the Destriers (essentially the policing force in Blunder) and in a deliciously forced-proximity, faking-a-courting situation, they come together bound by their own dark secrets.

Even though this is all from the perspective of Elspeth, the other characters don’t just highlight the story, they are a beaming light. Elm is a favorite of mine � ever-broody and suspicious of Elspeth from the start. The Nightmare - well what can I say: he’s terrible but has his own agenda in keeping Elspeth safe and secure, guiding her along the way.

Even the villains like the king and his reprehensible son Hauth make this story so well-rounded.


Atmosphere/Plot
“There once was a girl, clever and good, who tarried in shadow in the depths of the wood. There also was a King - a shepherd by his crooks, who reigned over magic and wrote the old books. The two were together, so the two were the same: The girl, the King, and the monster they became.�

I need more books like this in my life. Taking inspiration from tarot cards, the Cards of Providence are not only structured similarly, but imbue the holder with a magic that is actually legal in Blunder, as they were gifts to the people given by the Spirit of the Wood. That plan kind of backfired on the Spirit, but she has been exacting her revenge with the mist and the infection that will eventually eat the victim from the inside out. But wielding the power of a card also comes at a great cost � use it for too long, and you will start to feel the effects unique to each card. But there are only so many, and a prophecy describing how to rid the mist from the land is just missing one thing: the ever-elusive and lost-to-time Two Alders card. No one has seen it in five-hundred years and the only way to break the spell is to collect one of each kind of card and bring them together in a swirling potion of ingredients: cards, blood, and sacrifice. I will make the case that this book is more plot-driven, and the world-building is wonderful. Familiar fantasy settings but with a unique and deliciously dark twist on classic tropes.

Writing Style
Gillig has a way with words and a special way of weaving her story. So many quotable passages. First-person throughout, the plot and characters with the illustrious descriptions provided by Gillig provide nothing but entertainment. I will caution: this has some graphic fight scenes, a lot of blood and ripping of flesh, as well as some explicit love scenes not meant for a younger audience. This is the one fault I place on this story: that it will turn some readers away who prefer closed-door scenes. While it’s not nearly a habanero on the Scoville scale of spiciness, I would caution those who aren’t into that. On the other hand, I whole-heartedly believe they are scenes that could be skipped over for those who wish to do that kind of reading. I place no shame or guilt on any kind of reader, but will always caution this when it arises.


Intrigue
“Magic smells of salt.�>

Did I mention I couldn’t put this book down? From page one I knew I needed to make it through to the last without a pause: I just NEEDED to know how this would end, and while it is a duology and doesn’t round off in this book, it was so indulgent in unique and turn-worthy pages.


Excitement
Again, kicking myself for not reading this earlier because it is right up my alley. It’s a gothic fantasy I think any adult reader will enjoy and filled with rich and unique magic. Recommending this book is turning into my job now, because I want everyone to read it. ]]> 4.26 2022 One Dark Window (The Shepherd King, #1)
author: Rachel Gillig
name: Anie
average rating: 4.26
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at: 2025/02/08
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

A few words before I start this review: I’m kicking myself in the shins for not starting this duology when everyone was first recommending it to me. I feel the FOMO now, even though I am already devouring the second book. Another book from this week that I read in one sitting, could barely put down, and am now downright obsessed with.

“Be wary. Be clever. Be good.�


Characters
Elspeth Spindle is infected with magic from an all-consuming mist set on the land, Blunder, by the vengeful Spirit of the Wood. But more than being illegally alive, she harbors another dark secret that she has carried since she was nine years old: she is inhabited by a Nightmare. Her family has kept the secrets they know about her hidden, but all is coming to light.

I love Elspeth. She seems quiet and unassuming yet she is anything but. It’s just what has kept her alive and out of the hungry-for-blood sights on King Rowan (who I honestly got a bit of a laugh out of because his first name is QUERCUS. It means oak in Latin, and plant names, especially tree names, are traditional in this world, but come on - could you take a king seriously with that name? Shade � given from me, a humble reader � King Quercus. To say I dislike him is an understatement) and the ever-prying hands of the Physicians - the ones set out to find and confirm infected people, sending them to their inevitable deaths. When she is overtaken by highwaymen one night in the woods, her life goes from being quiet and out-of-sight to thrust into a rebellious scheme to gather all the Cards of Providence (I will go into this deeper next.)

Her magic skill of being able to see who carries Cards entwines her with a band of royals hellbent on their mission to collect the cards and rid Blunder of the infectious mist. From this she collides with Ravyn Yew, the King’s Captain of the Destriers (essentially the policing force in Blunder) and in a deliciously forced-proximity, faking-a-courting situation, they come together bound by their own dark secrets.

Even though this is all from the perspective of Elspeth, the other characters don’t just highlight the story, they are a beaming light. Elm is a favorite of mine � ever-broody and suspicious of Elspeth from the start. The Nightmare - well what can I say: he’s terrible but has his own agenda in keeping Elspeth safe and secure, guiding her along the way.

Even the villains like the king and his reprehensible son Hauth make this story so well-rounded.


Atmosphere/Plot
“There once was a girl, clever and good, who tarried in shadow in the depths of the wood. There also was a King - a shepherd by his crooks, who reigned over magic and wrote the old books. The two were together, so the two were the same: The girl, the King, and the monster they became.�

I need more books like this in my life. Taking inspiration from tarot cards, the Cards of Providence are not only structured similarly, but imbue the holder with a magic that is actually legal in Blunder, as they were gifts to the people given by the Spirit of the Wood. That plan kind of backfired on the Spirit, but she has been exacting her revenge with the mist and the infection that will eventually eat the victim from the inside out. But wielding the power of a card also comes at a great cost � use it for too long, and you will start to feel the effects unique to each card. But there are only so many, and a prophecy describing how to rid the mist from the land is just missing one thing: the ever-elusive and lost-to-time Two Alders card. No one has seen it in five-hundred years and the only way to break the spell is to collect one of each kind of card and bring them together in a swirling potion of ingredients: cards, blood, and sacrifice. I will make the case that this book is more plot-driven, and the world-building is wonderful. Familiar fantasy settings but with a unique and deliciously dark twist on classic tropes.

Writing Style
Gillig has a way with words and a special way of weaving her story. So many quotable passages. First-person throughout, the plot and characters with the illustrious descriptions provided by Gillig provide nothing but entertainment. I will caution: this has some graphic fight scenes, a lot of blood and ripping of flesh, as well as some explicit love scenes not meant for a younger audience. This is the one fault I place on this story: that it will turn some readers away who prefer closed-door scenes. While it’s not nearly a habanero on the Scoville scale of spiciness, I would caution those who aren’t into that. On the other hand, I whole-heartedly believe they are scenes that could be skipped over for those who wish to do that kind of reading. I place no shame or guilt on any kind of reader, but will always caution this when it arises.


Intrigue
“Magic smells of salt.�>

Did I mention I couldn’t put this book down? From page one I knew I needed to make it through to the last without a pause: I just NEEDED to know how this would end, and while it is a duology and doesn’t round off in this book, it was so indulgent in unique and turn-worthy pages.


Excitement
Again, kicking myself for not reading this earlier because it is right up my alley. It’s a gothic fantasy I think any adult reader will enjoy and filled with rich and unique magic. Recommending this book is turning into my job now, because I want everyone to read it.
]]> Guard in the Garden 224267315 Embark on a wholesome journey of healing and self-discovery. A cozy fantasy tale of forging new friendships and overcoming fears. A quiet quest of family bonds and budding romance.

From dragon fire to garden flowers �

Felton Holdum spent his entire life training to become one of Galium’s elite dwarven warriors. When a bloody battle leaves him injured, he has no choice but to move into his eccentric twin aunts� quaint home in the town’s quiet Garome District.

With his life of military service seemingly over, the captain of the city guard gives Felton his only chance at a fresh start in the new life he never wanted.

But when a human woman barges through his front door, the grumpy dwarf starts to wonder if there is more to life than war. The sunshine woman invites him to visit her garden, where Felton gains a new nemesis and a new purpose in life.

Take a walk through the garden and see what magic awaits.

Come enjoy the hospitality of the whimsical Garome District. Meet new friends as you sample new breads at the bakery, play a game of Castle Brick at the tavern, and taste homemade pies during the annual pie baking contest at the Fall Festival.

“Virgin River meets The Hobbit� in this heartwarming, feel-good fantasy.]]> Z.S. Diamanti 1961580136 Anie 4 arcs
From the bloody end on a battlefield to the inspiring rise of a war hero who was down in the dumps, Diamanti took me for a rollercoaster of emotions that I won't soon forget. There is so much hope woven into this story that it would be hard for anyone to not feel its glow. This is the epitome of cozy fantasy and I highly recommend it!

Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC of this book. ]]> 4.68 Guard in the Garden
author: Z.S. Diamanti
name: Anie
average rating: 4.68
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/18
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves: arcs
review:
Immediately I was taken in by the harrowing story of the dwarf-veteran Felton Holdum and his journey on the way back to himself. A story close to his own heart, Z.S. Diamanti paints a picture of loss and trauma paired with wonderful world building and scenes that had me in literal tears. This book is perfect for anyone who is or has a veteran in their life, or someone who just needs an uplifting story to get them through a hardship. The characters are likeable, well-rounded, and brought life to what could have been a tragic story for Felton. And don't forget the absolutely mouth-watering depictions of food! Can I jump into this world just to have a bacon hash scramble??

From the bloody end on a battlefield to the inspiring rise of a war hero who was down in the dumps, Diamanti took me for a rollercoaster of emotions that I won't soon forget. There is so much hope woven into this story that it would be hard for anyone to not feel its glow. This is the epitome of cozy fantasy and I highly recommend it!

Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC of this book.
]]> Nocticadia 136470356 A dark, atmospheric tale of deadly secrets and forbidden love.

Mortui vivos docent.
The dead teach the living.

After watching my mother succumb to a mysterious illness, I promised myself two things. I’d find the cure for what ravaged her. And leave the godforsaken city where she abandoned me.

Four years later, I receive an acceptance letter from Dracadia University, one of the oldest, most prestigious schools in the country. Nestled on a secluded island off the coast of Maine, it’s rumored to be haunted by the souls of the mental patients exiled there centuries before. Those whose bones are said to make up the island’s white sandy shores.

And restless ghosts aren’t even its most daunting peculiarity.

Devryck Bramwell, known on campus as Doctor Death, is a brilliant pathologist in charge of the midnight lab. He’s also my devastatingly handsome professor, who seems to loathe tenacious first-years, like me. Except, his dark and enigmatic gaze tells me all the ways he’d devour me if given the chance, and his stolen kisses burn my lips with forbidden jealousy.

I crave his authority.
He aches for redemption.
Together, we’re toxic. Delicious fodder for the prying eyes hellbent on exhuming the rotted skeletons of our pasts.

For the dead have much to teach, and it’s only a matter of time before Dracadia’s most depraved secret is resurrected.

Nocticadia is a standalone dark academia gothic romance.]]> 682 Keri Lake Anie 3 I keep debating whether to give this three or four stars. I’ll defer to my CAWPILE system to be honest but for now my gut rating is like 3.5]]> 4.23 2023 Nocticadia
author: Keri Lake
name: Anie
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/22
date added: 2025/02/22
shelves:
review:
Review to come
I keep debating whether to give this three or four stars. I’ll defer to my CAWPILE system to be honest but for now my gut rating is like 3.5
]]> <![CDATA[The Hiding: (Book One of The Seer of York)]]> 201746891 The Hiding is an enthralling adventure of demons, spirits, witches and their hunters. Within its secret rooms, it’s an examination of identity and community and the very real magic therein.�
—Rae Knowles, Author of The Stradivarius & Merciless Waters

“A delightful weave of supernatural mystery and family drama, balanced against a tale of found family and pain.�
—Alexander James, Author of The Woodkin

Arcane archivist Harper has always been plagued by dreams of grotesque creatures and bloody deaths. When she bumps into a ghostwalker in the Shambles and has a visceral experience of his execution, she knows it’s a foretelling. Yet fear of the Queen’s Guard stops her speaking out. When her vision indeed comes true, the unusual markings on the ghostwalker’s corpse, combined with his neatly excised vocal cords, send a ripple of terror through York.

The witch hunt is on. As the body count rises, Harper knows her magic is the only way to find the killer � if she can avoid being hanged as a witch. To protect both human and supernatural, Harper walks the thin line between their worlds. She and her demonhunter foster-sister form a multi-faith team with a forensic scientist, a spirit Harper accidentally summoned, and a techno-witch, to catch the killer before more people die.]]> 282 Alethea Lyons 1957537825 Anie 0 to-read 4.31 The Hiding: (Book One of The Seer of York)
author: Alethea Lyons
name: Anie
average rating: 4.31
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/20
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Phantasma (Wicked Games, #1) 204593914 Caraval meets Throne of the Fallen in this spicy dark romantasy where a necromancer needs help from a dangerous phantom to win a deadly competition, only to find their partnership puts her at risk of breaking the game’s most vital rule: don't fall in love.

When Ophelia and her sister discovers their mother brutally murdered, there is no time to grieve: Ophelia has inherited both her powerful death-driven magic and enormous debt on their home. Circumstances go from dire to deadly, however, when Ophelia’s sister decides to pay off the loan by entering Phantasma—a competition where most contestants don’t make it out alive and the winner is granted a single wish.

The only way to save her sister is to compete. But Phantasma is a cursed manor, with twisting corridors and lavish ballrooms, and filled with enticing demons and fatal temptations. Ophelia will need to face nine floors of challenges to win... if her fears don’t overtake her first.

When a charming, arrogant stranger claims he can protect and guide Ophelia, she knows she shouldn’t trust him. While Blackwell may not seem dangerous, appearances can be deceptive. But with her sister’s life on the line, Ophelia can’t afford to turn him away. She just needs to ignore the overwhelming, dark attraction drawing them closer and closer together.

Because in Phantasma, the only thing deadlier than losing the game is losing your heart.]]> 497 Kaylie Smith 1538769255 Anie 4 review to come! 4.06 2024 Phantasma (Wicked Games, #1)
author: Kaylie Smith
name: Anie
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/19
date added: 2025/02/19
shelves:
review:
review to come!
]]> Enchantra (Wicked Games, #2) 217182344 Ready or Not meets Throne of the Fallen in a spicy, enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance, where an Italian getaway turns deadly after a young woman is trapped in her host family's cursed game.

Ready or not, the game has begun.

Genevieve Grimm has felt adrift ever since her sister became the head of the family. So when a mysterious friend of their mother's invites her to Italy, she accepts. She arrives at his grand palace, expecting passion and magic, decadence and luxury... perhaps even a midnight ball.

She doesn't expect the owner's ruthlessly handsome son to slam the door in her face. Rowin Silver is tall, dark, and exceptionally rude, and invitation or not, he demands Genevieve leave and never come back. But Genevieve follows nobody's orders, especially those of arrogant rich boys. She slips inside—and immediately discovers her mistake.

Rowin and his family are caught in an insidious game of hide and seek, where only one can win. The rest will be trapped in Hell... until the competition begins again.

Genevieve must either join the hunt or forfeit any hope of escaping. But to her dismay, her best chance of survival lies with Rowin. Since lovers may play as a pair, Rowin and Genevieve agree to form an alliance under the guise of a fake courtship. However, as they race through the game's elaborate labyrinth, trapped among gleaming gold and shining marble, their loathing gives way to irresistible attraction. Only Rowin is keeping secrets, especially when it comes to his ruthless family, and Genevieve can't help but wonder if she's trapped in two treacherous games: Enchantra and the one Rowin is playing with her heart.]]> 448 Kaylie Smith 1538770806 Anie 0 to-read 4.45 2025 Enchantra (Wicked Games, #2)
author: Kaylie Smith
name: Anie
average rating: 4.45
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/19
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Wistful Ascending (Hybrid Helix, #1)]]> 55251766 A superhero space opera for grownups.

For fans of Guardians of the Galaxy or Invincible.
Like Dragonball Z but wish it had a little more hard science fiction in it?

The il’Drach Empire spans half a galaxy, built on the feet and fists of their Powered hybrid children.

At eight Rohan of Earth learned that he was only half human. By sixteen he was an active superhero, using his inherited powers to fight crime, in mask and spandex. At twenty-two he left his home to fight for the his father's people, expanding the il’Drach Empire and protecting it from local and interdimensional threats. At thirty-two, exhausted by ten years of ruthless warfare, he retired to Wistful, a vast sentient independent space station, to try to live a normal life.

With a steady job, someone far out of his league to date, and the most cosmopolitan selection of fine dining in the sector, things are looking up.

Then a long dormant wormhole in Wistful's system is opened by a ship full of refugees, drawing unwanted attention from the Empire. The appearance of the refugees sets off a chain of events that will force Rohan to confront his checkered past and cast doubt on whether he can ever leave behind his violent warrior heritage.

To keep his friends safe, and himself in one piece, Rohan has to face giant insects, body-skipping assassins, vengeful armored aliens, an inquisition of intelligent bears, and a team of his fellow hybrids. The open question is whether tapping into his savage alien powers will end up destroying the peaceful life he has been trying to build.]]> 415 J.C.M. Berne Anie 0 to-read 4.47 Wistful Ascending (Hybrid Helix, #1)
author: J.C.M. Berne
name: Anie
average rating: 4.47
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/18
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Warden 22823136 Librarian's Note: this is an alternate cover edition for ISBN 13: 9780140432145

The tranquil atmosphere of the cathedral town of Barchester is shattered when a scandal breaks concerning the financial affairs of a Church-run almshouse for elderly men. In the ensuing furore, Septimus Harding, the almshouse's well-meaning warden, finds himself pitted against his daughter's suitor Dr. John Bold, a zealous local reformer. Matters are not improved when Harding's abrasive son-in law, Archdeacon Grantly, leaps into the fray to defend him against a campaign Bold begins in the national press. An affectionate and wittily satirical view of the workings of the Church of England, "The Warden" is also a subtle exploration of the rights and wrongs of moral crusades and, in its account of Harding's intensely felt personal drama, a moving depiction of the private impact of public affairs.]]> 201 Anthony Trollope Anie 3 2025-classics-book-club-picks We have one last discussion in the classic book club I want to be in first, before I give my final thoughts, but overall I did like it and it was a good reintroduction to the book club and reading classics on the whole. ]]> 3.57 1855 The Warden
author: Anthony Trollope
name: Anie
average rating: 3.57
book published: 1855
rating: 3
read at: 2025/02/18
date added: 2025/02/18
shelves: 2025-classics-book-club-picks
review:
Review to come!
We have one last discussion in the classic book club I want to be in first, before I give my final thoughts, but overall I did like it and it was a good reintroduction to the book club and reading classics on the whole.
]]> <![CDATA[Court of Ravens and Ruin (The Shadow Bound Queen, #1)]]> 62685652
Reyna was born a valuable slave to the Gold Court, imprisoned her whole life in a glittering palace by sadistic, greedy fae.
When the palace is raided, she takes her opportunity to escape. But the raid is led by her worst nightmare. The Prince of the most feared fae of all; the Shadow Court. And he wants one thing.
Her. The copper-haired, rune-marked human.

Reyna doesn’t know why the Prince has kidnapped her. But when he announces her as his betrothed, she knows that she must escape before she is eternally bound to the monster behind the mask.
Only, when he takes the mask off, he isn’t what she expects. He’s lethal, beautiful and exudes sin. And he needs her.

Drawn into a deadly world shrouded in secrets, and desperate to keep her own hidden, Reyna must find a way out. If she doesn’t, she risks more than just death. She risks giving everything to her intoxicating captor.

This is the first book in the Shadow Bound Queen series, and is inspired by Norse mythology and Vikings. Sexy fae Vikings. It has Hades and Persephone, Beauty and the Beast vibes, and is slow-burn enemies to lovers fantasy romance with a burn-the-world-down-for-her hero. The series builds in steam and is filled with magic, myth, and delicious tension.

Brides of Mist and Fae is a brand new world from Eliza Raine, unconnected to the Dark Gods of Olympus.]]> 312 Eliza Raine Anie 1 3.89 2022 Court of Ravens and Ruin (The Shadow Bound Queen, #1)
author: Eliza Raine
name: Anie
average rating: 3.89
book published: 2022
rating: 1
read at: 2025/02/15
date added: 2025/02/15
shelves:
review:

]]> For A Few Days More 203810308



Roth is a bodyguard trying to leave his dark past behind, but history has a way of turning back up. Cynthia is a bandit who's trying to make a future by wading through blood. They travel separately, trying to live by their own codes. All while a man in a red cloak tracks their blood-soaked footprints.]]> 221 Z.B. Steele 1737381745 Anie 0 to-read 4.65 For A Few Days More
author: Z.B. Steele
name: Anie
average rating: 4.65
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Earth-Treader (The Earthen-Crest Kingdoms, #1)]]> 56036929
After a short walk to the Grove and stumbling into a talking cat, she realizes she may have no other choice. There she is told she’s an Earth-Treader—one who can bend the will of nature and speak to animals, and she’s reminded of the Earth-Lore—the five missing stones which once held their kingdoms together. But with a growing Darkness lurking on the horizon, the missing stones are being sought by many. Rylla is tasked with finding them herself, especially before the cruel Lord Brennigan does.

Despite all her protestations, Rylla can’t escape her fate. She must embark on this impossible journey and leave all her comforts behind. But she’s not alone. Even with fear and doubt as her armor, Rylla meets strangers who challenge her resolve, and she learns that even in the shadows love and light can thrive. Perhaps it’s even enough to give her wings.]]> 490 Alissa J. Zavalianos Anie 4 SFFINSIDERS.COM

“Darkness can only hide for so long. Truth is revealed in light.�

Where to begin with this book? I really enjoyed it at the start, and zipped through over half the book in one sitting. It captured me as a sort of Snow White and the Huntsman style book, where the heroine is chased, with a super soft romance budding from it. But it’s more than just that. It also has a bit of a Tolkien meets Thanos plot, in the sense that Rylla, our heroine, has to find and collect valuable stones while also fighting off fantastical forces and beasts of epic proportions. Combined with a cozy, familiar feeling, I believe this a great fantasy for young readers.


Characters
There are multiple characters that are prominent throughout the book but I’ll start with our heroine:

Rylla is a young girl who is imbued with new powers called “Earth-Treading� which allow her to connect with the power of various earth stones. She’s new to it all, and winging it as she goes. Along with being able to tap into this power, she can speak to animals, and has a companion who follows her on her trip across the lands � Moo, a cat. She has a lot on her small shoulders but presents a strong sense of purpose, even if at first she is hesitant to accept her fate. She leaves her family to complete her quest not knowing that along the way, more surprises than not await her.

Caz, one of our huntsmen � yes I said one of many people are after Rylla because Earth-Treaders are being tracked and captured by the antagonist, but we will get there shortly � help Rylla when he probably shouldn’t. He is conscripted in the king’s army, but is a deserter. When he finds Rylla running for her life in the woods, instead of taking her hostage, he aids her and continues to follow her even after she abandons him from fear. Their bond blossoms towards the end of the book, and is a very clean, true-to-its-demographic YA connection. I can appreciate this aspect.

The antagonist, Brennigan, sets the entire book on course in the prologue, something I’m not a personal fan of, but without it, the book really wouldn’t have much of a starting point. He is overpowered, losing his precious and powerful stone and cast out like Voldemort, incorporealizing in defeat. But, much like old Voldy, he has a loyal compatriot who is helping him regain power and find all the lost earth stones (the very same ones Rylla has been tasked with collecting and protecting.)

All-in-all, I think the main set of characters set a good foundation, but I did find some of the twists and turns relating to them a bit predictable and at times oddly incorporated. In an effort to keep this as spoiler-free as possible, I will leave it at that. I think the overall development of the characters could have been fleshed out a little more.


Atmosphere
The overall world-building is one of those where you have to just immediately accept that things are happening and they just…are. We are thrust into the Earth-Crest Kingdoms with little to no backstory other than that told by a cat and a cartographer and a prologue. This is one of the fantasies where it is definitely more character-driven than plot-driven, in my opinion. Had it been described more in depth, I may have connected to the story far more, but it didn’t make it undesirable. Just one of those cases where you are set down in the middle of a place and have to adapt your thinking to what’s given to you. Combined with the feeling of a retelling, it’s not wholly unfamiliar, but the uniqueness of the story could have been set apart with a little more fleshing out. However, with that said, it’s a great story for a younger reading base. It’s enough detail to keep a reader captivated but also still feel like they can follow the story.


Writing Style
Again, a very easy to read novel overall. Zavalianos has a simple way of writing that allows for anyone to pick up her book and enjoy it. I certainly did, all things considered.


Plot
While the plot didn’t necessarily drive the story, it was well-paced and there are several scenes that had me on my toes. Rylla has to contend with many forces all while being totally untrained in her new gifts. Along the way she has to escape forest spirits, a twisted old cave-dweller who basically holds her hostage, a giant sea serpent, and of course the half-there and disgraced Brennigan. Rylla has forces coming at her from all sides, and the only people she can truly trust are her animal companion. Even those she thought she could trust get twisted by the wills of the magic stones at some point. It’s hard for her to navigate a world she thought was simple, but is in reality a very dangerous place, testing her resolve at every turn. I did believe there were some plot holes from the lesser world-building that could have made this story feel fuller, but all in all, the story moved forward and resolved in a satisfying way.


Intrigue
You’re probably thinking: wow what made you keep reading? Well, I was really rooting for Rylla the entire time. She was thrown into this mess by no doing of her own, and she is young, unseasoned, and unprepared for the broad world around her. All in all, it really is a cozy fantasy page-turner. And the faster-paced scenes did keep me on my toes (especially the giant sea snake.)


Logic
I don’t want to sound like a broken record, so I’ll just leave it at: I wish there was more substance to the world-building and some plot points were confusing and predictable in their simplicity.


Excitement
Truth be told � even through all of that � I would still absolutely recommend this as it does stand on its own as a good read, especially to a younger audience looking for a clean fantasy with a super soft romance. A lot of fantasies thrust you into their world, and this shouldn’t be discounted by any means.
]]> 4.29 2020 The Earth-Treader (The Earthen-Crest Kingdoms, #1)
author: Alissa J. Zavalianos
name: Anie
average rating: 4.29
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/12
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on SFFINSIDERS.COM

“Darkness can only hide for so long. Truth is revealed in light.�

Where to begin with this book? I really enjoyed it at the start, and zipped through over half the book in one sitting. It captured me as a sort of Snow White and the Huntsman style book, where the heroine is chased, with a super soft romance budding from it. But it’s more than just that. It also has a bit of a Tolkien meets Thanos plot, in the sense that Rylla, our heroine, has to find and collect valuable stones while also fighting off fantastical forces and beasts of epic proportions. Combined with a cozy, familiar feeling, I believe this a great fantasy for young readers.


Characters
There are multiple characters that are prominent throughout the book but I’ll start with our heroine:

Rylla is a young girl who is imbued with new powers called “Earth-Treading� which allow her to connect with the power of various earth stones. She’s new to it all, and winging it as she goes. Along with being able to tap into this power, she can speak to animals, and has a companion who follows her on her trip across the lands � Moo, a cat. She has a lot on her small shoulders but presents a strong sense of purpose, even if at first she is hesitant to accept her fate. She leaves her family to complete her quest not knowing that along the way, more surprises than not await her.

Caz, one of our huntsmen � yes I said one of many people are after Rylla because Earth-Treaders are being tracked and captured by the antagonist, but we will get there shortly � help Rylla when he probably shouldn’t. He is conscripted in the king’s army, but is a deserter. When he finds Rylla running for her life in the woods, instead of taking her hostage, he aids her and continues to follow her even after she abandons him from fear. Their bond blossoms towards the end of the book, and is a very clean, true-to-its-demographic YA connection. I can appreciate this aspect.

The antagonist, Brennigan, sets the entire book on course in the prologue, something I’m not a personal fan of, but without it, the book really wouldn’t have much of a starting point. He is overpowered, losing his precious and powerful stone and cast out like Voldemort, incorporealizing in defeat. But, much like old Voldy, he has a loyal compatriot who is helping him regain power and find all the lost earth stones (the very same ones Rylla has been tasked with collecting and protecting.)

All-in-all, I think the main set of characters set a good foundation, but I did find some of the twists and turns relating to them a bit predictable and at times oddly incorporated. In an effort to keep this as spoiler-free as possible, I will leave it at that. I think the overall development of the characters could have been fleshed out a little more.


Atmosphere
The overall world-building is one of those where you have to just immediately accept that things are happening and they just…are. We are thrust into the Earth-Crest Kingdoms with little to no backstory other than that told by a cat and a cartographer and a prologue. This is one of the fantasies where it is definitely more character-driven than plot-driven, in my opinion. Had it been described more in depth, I may have connected to the story far more, but it didn’t make it undesirable. Just one of those cases where you are set down in the middle of a place and have to adapt your thinking to what’s given to you. Combined with the feeling of a retelling, it’s not wholly unfamiliar, but the uniqueness of the story could have been set apart with a little more fleshing out. However, with that said, it’s a great story for a younger reading base. It’s enough detail to keep a reader captivated but also still feel like they can follow the story.


Writing Style
Again, a very easy to read novel overall. Zavalianos has a simple way of writing that allows for anyone to pick up her book and enjoy it. I certainly did, all things considered.


Plot
While the plot didn’t necessarily drive the story, it was well-paced and there are several scenes that had me on my toes. Rylla has to contend with many forces all while being totally untrained in her new gifts. Along the way she has to escape forest spirits, a twisted old cave-dweller who basically holds her hostage, a giant sea serpent, and of course the half-there and disgraced Brennigan. Rylla has forces coming at her from all sides, and the only people she can truly trust are her animal companion. Even those she thought she could trust get twisted by the wills of the magic stones at some point. It’s hard for her to navigate a world she thought was simple, but is in reality a very dangerous place, testing her resolve at every turn. I did believe there were some plot holes from the lesser world-building that could have made this story feel fuller, but all in all, the story moved forward and resolved in a satisfying way.


Intrigue
You’re probably thinking: wow what made you keep reading? Well, I was really rooting for Rylla the entire time. She was thrown into this mess by no doing of her own, and she is young, unseasoned, and unprepared for the broad world around her. All in all, it really is a cozy fantasy page-turner. And the faster-paced scenes did keep me on my toes (especially the giant sea snake.)


Logic
I don’t want to sound like a broken record, so I’ll just leave it at: I wish there was more substance to the world-building and some plot points were confusing and predictable in their simplicity.


Excitement
Truth be told � even through all of that � I would still absolutely recommend this as it does stand on its own as a good read, especially to a younger audience looking for a clean fantasy with a super soft romance. A lot of fantasies thrust you into their world, and this shouldn’t be discounted by any means.

]]> <![CDATA[Mercy Rising: An Exile War Novel]]> 137974582 A Girl. A Mysterious Power. A Revolution

The Archon Dominion crushes all dissent. Mercy Hail wants change, no matter the cost to herself. But freak accidents keep happening around her, and she can’t explain why. So when she lights the fuse on an uprising, it’s not exactly a surprise when everything goes wrong at once.

The Dominion sends Dante Matter to Mercy’s world with a simple set of Find the girl with emerging telekinetic powers and put her to work for us. Nobody warned him she’d be beautiful, though. Nobody warned him her gifts would be greater than his own. And nobody warned him that his hunt would be the first battle in an interstellar war.

In a world where gifts like hers have been all but extinguished, Mercy must choose sides in a war that will spread across the stars. To survive, she’ll have to learn how to use her power, learn how she feels about Dante, and learn the true story of the past that made her who she is.]]> 232 Bowen Greenwood Anie 4
This one took me for a loop from the get-go! As this not only quelled a craving for something slightly different, but kept me on my toes throughout. It is on the shorter side, but packed with action from start to finish.

Mercy Rising is actually the fifth book of an extended series, but it can stand on its own. I am not typically a fan of diving into a series that is as established as this one, but I would actually say this is a good novella to introduce you to the series as a whole � picking up years after the Exile War ended, with the antagonist Archons in control. From the very first chapter, a weak and failing rebellion is holding onto the last threads it can when an attack ensues. The action did not stop from then on, and I ended up turning page after page.

Characters
Warring factions are right up my alley lately. Crazy hog-man-hybrid creatures I was not too sure about but they grew on me as the story progressed. Most of all is Mercy Hail, imbued with a special gift but the conundrum of what to do in this war. I immediately connected to her and rooted for her from the start. She is clever and has a way of getting in and out of places unseen � a big reason why she gets recruited to begin with. The rebellion hinges on her talent but does not wait � they bring the fight to the enemy.

Speaking of which, the antagonist, Archon rising star: Dante Matter. He is pompous, arrogant, and everything that makes a great villain. He is one of those “I’ll walk and find you while you run away thinking you can hide� kind of villains who wields fear as a weapon and is well-versed in the skill. As a villain girlie, I did sometimes find myself rooting for him, too.


Atmosphere
I think anyone can see themselves enjoying this space war novel. It has a similar feel to some of the classic favorite rebellion stories, like Star Wars or Valerian. Did I mention the hog-men are cannibals? It is all woven together skillfully to bring to life a world that has intrigued me enough to want to read the other books in this series.


Writing Style
Bowen has an easy way with words that can bring any reader in, even to a book that is technically fifth in a series. That’s a true testament! In most cases I am not a fan of being dumped into a world mid-series, but the way this one is written makes you believe you have been here the whole time.


Plot
As I mentioned, the characters are a big part of the story, but the plot is what I believe drives the whole story. Mercy is recruited to collect secret documents from very tightly closed government facilities. The Archons use an army of the cannibal hogs I mentioned to keep everyone in check, and their reach is ever expanding. The “magic� (telepathy) seasoned into the story is anything but fantastical, making it a true sci fi novel to its core. The character arcs are believable and the plot makes for a tense and enjoyable read all around.


Intrigue
Absolutely action packed from the very first page. It was one thing after another, and had very few slow spots. I am eager to read more from this author, and definitely within this series.


Excitement
It is certainly a book I will be recommending to others. Great for adult readers who love a bit of a twist on science fiction, an empowering rebellion force, and some quite good villainous characters. ]]> 4.67 Mercy Rising: An Exile War Novel
author: Bowen Greenwood
name: Anie
average rating: 4.67
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/16
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

This one took me for a loop from the get-go! As this not only quelled a craving for something slightly different, but kept me on my toes throughout. It is on the shorter side, but packed with action from start to finish.

Mercy Rising is actually the fifth book of an extended series, but it can stand on its own. I am not typically a fan of diving into a series that is as established as this one, but I would actually say this is a good novella to introduce you to the series as a whole � picking up years after the Exile War ended, with the antagonist Archons in control. From the very first chapter, a weak and failing rebellion is holding onto the last threads it can when an attack ensues. The action did not stop from then on, and I ended up turning page after page.

Characters
Warring factions are right up my alley lately. Crazy hog-man-hybrid creatures I was not too sure about but they grew on me as the story progressed. Most of all is Mercy Hail, imbued with a special gift but the conundrum of what to do in this war. I immediately connected to her and rooted for her from the start. She is clever and has a way of getting in and out of places unseen � a big reason why she gets recruited to begin with. The rebellion hinges on her talent but does not wait � they bring the fight to the enemy.

Speaking of which, the antagonist, Archon rising star: Dante Matter. He is pompous, arrogant, and everything that makes a great villain. He is one of those “I’ll walk and find you while you run away thinking you can hide� kind of villains who wields fear as a weapon and is well-versed in the skill. As a villain girlie, I did sometimes find myself rooting for him, too.


Atmosphere
I think anyone can see themselves enjoying this space war novel. It has a similar feel to some of the classic favorite rebellion stories, like Star Wars or Valerian. Did I mention the hog-men are cannibals? It is all woven together skillfully to bring to life a world that has intrigued me enough to want to read the other books in this series.


Writing Style
Bowen has an easy way with words that can bring any reader in, even to a book that is technically fifth in a series. That’s a true testament! In most cases I am not a fan of being dumped into a world mid-series, but the way this one is written makes you believe you have been here the whole time.


Plot
As I mentioned, the characters are a big part of the story, but the plot is what I believe drives the whole story. Mercy is recruited to collect secret documents from very tightly closed government facilities. The Archons use an army of the cannibal hogs I mentioned to keep everyone in check, and their reach is ever expanding. The “magic� (telepathy) seasoned into the story is anything but fantastical, making it a true sci fi novel to its core. The character arcs are believable and the plot makes for a tense and enjoyable read all around.


Intrigue
Absolutely action packed from the very first page. It was one thing after another, and had very few slow spots. I am eager to read more from this author, and definitely within this series.


Excitement
It is certainly a book I will be recommending to others. Great for adult readers who love a bit of a twist on science fiction, an empowering rebellion force, and some quite good villainous characters.
]]> Iron Legacy (Iron Legacy, #1) 216736398 RED RISING, DIVERGENT, and THE COLLAPSING EMPIRE.�

All Cato has ever known is the Euclid, a colony on the Gravidian moon Logos and a last bastion for humanity � or so the history spun by those in power has led him to believe. But when the Euclidian Affinity Examination known as “the Lottery� reaches its culmination, secrets begin to unravel that leave Cato longing for justice. The first of those secrets being anyone found without future societal utility is executed. Immediately. And Cato is supposed to be among them.

Finding an almost impossible ally in Helena, daughter of the woman who had ordered his execution, Cato is finally given the chance to break free from the trial and injustice that hold him bound to the Euclid � bound to the lie the Iron War had come to an end. A chance he is willing to die for.]]> 384 Gavin Oxley Anie 4
Y’all! I might be slightly obsessed with this book at the moment. If you were hungover after Red Rising and wanted more space opera in your life or have been desperate for something that feels like Divergent with a more adult feel: This book is for you. Does it have some flaws? Sure. But dive in with me as I take you on a whirlwind of a review that will hopefully convince you to put this book on your TBR and shelves.


Characters
I want to first express that this is a multi-POV, first person sci fi. The main characters, Cato and Helena, at first represent somewhat opposite ends of the spectrum in society: one an outcast and the other the daughter of a high-up politician. What seems like an unlikely pair are thrust together in an uprising of universal proportions.

“It’s a chance to become more than the names we carry. On the other side of the Lottery, we are what we make of our Discipline.�

We are first introduced to Cato as he prepares for a ceremony that will determine his place in society. There are several factions (called Disciplines) he can go to, and he’s hoping to be of importance. However, what was advertised as a selection turns into a reaping, and sets him on a course of rebellion. He was not meant to be there, but alas, he defies many odds throughout the book and ends up joining the War Discipline, training with what I think is a really badass weapon called an Auron channeling rod. They are reminiscent of a light-saber in the sense that they use light energy to form BUT what sets them apart and makes them super unique is that their manifestation is determined by the energy given out by the user, and it’s a massively dangerous weapon to have.

“The channeling rod is not unique to its yielder, but the color of the Auron energy channeled through the rod will be, telling an entire story about the wielder of the blade.�

Helena is reluctant to accept Cato in the beginning, but something blossoms between them during training that transcends just rescuing their society from an all-encompassing tyrant government. She realizes Cato is someone worth putting her trust and hope into. But don’t get it twisted � she is a force to be reckoned with one her own. But together with Cato and their band of rebels, she becomes so much more. I really like her as a character and her growth is leaps and bounds from the beginning, no matter how much strife they both go through. And she certainly goes through a ringer.

I am also fully connected to the “side characters� and find them to be a great addition to the group. Sometimes there are some side characters I can’t stand, but in this case, even the unenjoyable ones add a certain flavor to the story that wouldn’t be there without them. I laughed and I cried alongside them.


Atmosphere
I love a good space opera mixed with a dystopian edge. This one met all the things I was craving after going through a major book slump. Advertised as a mix of Red Rising and Divergent, I can say the world-building follows through with this promise. I enjoyed all the aspects this first-of-a-series has to offer and will absolutely keep reading this series, because the setting, while maybe a typical sci-fi space-theme, brings so many more elements together than can easily be enjoyed by many.


Writing Style
Oxley writes from the heart of someone who loves science fiction and fantasy alike, as weaves them together in a way that hooked me from the start.


Plot/Logic
The core of this story is a rebellion against a tyrant government called the Euclid. For too long they have gotten away with pushing people to their own will, until a major mistake brings Cato to the forefront, and he goes to battle against them and his own ghosts from the past.

“Though the Iron War had become cold for a time, it was clear the firestorm of emotions were never extinguished.�

The Euclid thought they had everything under control, but alas, everything is being unraveled by an unlikely band of warriors. I turned pages faster than I thought I could. Does it have some plot holes? Yeah, admittedly it does. But as the first in a series, I’m eager to see where this story goes in the next books. Some passages I had to reread as I thought I might have missed something, but overall it doesn’t take away from the main story in such a way that it’s misunderstood.


Intrigue/Excitement
This was an absolutely intriguing read, combining some of my favorite tropes from science fiction. I would definitely recommend this to readers, but would caution a younger crowd. It’s definitely an adult book and is advertised as such, but I wholeheartedly believe it would appeal to the YA crowd from the elder end of that spectrum (there are some graphic scenes and swearing that might not be totally suitable for the younger end of the spectrum.)
]]> 4.53 Iron Legacy (Iron Legacy, #1)
author: Gavin Oxley
name: Anie
average rating: 4.53
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/23
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

Y’all! I might be slightly obsessed with this book at the moment. If you were hungover after Red Rising and wanted more space opera in your life or have been desperate for something that feels like Divergent with a more adult feel: This book is for you. Does it have some flaws? Sure. But dive in with me as I take you on a whirlwind of a review that will hopefully convince you to put this book on your TBR and shelves.


Characters
I want to first express that this is a multi-POV, first person sci fi. The main characters, Cato and Helena, at first represent somewhat opposite ends of the spectrum in society: one an outcast and the other the daughter of a high-up politician. What seems like an unlikely pair are thrust together in an uprising of universal proportions.

“It’s a chance to become more than the names we carry. On the other side of the Lottery, we are what we make of our Discipline.�

We are first introduced to Cato as he prepares for a ceremony that will determine his place in society. There are several factions (called Disciplines) he can go to, and he’s hoping to be of importance. However, what was advertised as a selection turns into a reaping, and sets him on a course of rebellion. He was not meant to be there, but alas, he defies many odds throughout the book and ends up joining the War Discipline, training with what I think is a really badass weapon called an Auron channeling rod. They are reminiscent of a light-saber in the sense that they use light energy to form BUT what sets them apart and makes them super unique is that their manifestation is determined by the energy given out by the user, and it’s a massively dangerous weapon to have.

“The channeling rod is not unique to its yielder, but the color of the Auron energy channeled through the rod will be, telling an entire story about the wielder of the blade.�

Helena is reluctant to accept Cato in the beginning, but something blossoms between them during training that transcends just rescuing their society from an all-encompassing tyrant government. She realizes Cato is someone worth putting her trust and hope into. But don’t get it twisted � she is a force to be reckoned with one her own. But together with Cato and their band of rebels, she becomes so much more. I really like her as a character and her growth is leaps and bounds from the beginning, no matter how much strife they both go through. And she certainly goes through a ringer.

I am also fully connected to the “side characters� and find them to be a great addition to the group. Sometimes there are some side characters I can’t stand, but in this case, even the unenjoyable ones add a certain flavor to the story that wouldn’t be there without them. I laughed and I cried alongside them.


Atmosphere
I love a good space opera mixed with a dystopian edge. This one met all the things I was craving after going through a major book slump. Advertised as a mix of Red Rising and Divergent, I can say the world-building follows through with this promise. I enjoyed all the aspects this first-of-a-series has to offer and will absolutely keep reading this series, because the setting, while maybe a typical sci-fi space-theme, brings so many more elements together than can easily be enjoyed by many.


Writing Style
Oxley writes from the heart of someone who loves science fiction and fantasy alike, as weaves them together in a way that hooked me from the start.


Plot/Logic
The core of this story is a rebellion against a tyrant government called the Euclid. For too long they have gotten away with pushing people to their own will, until a major mistake brings Cato to the forefront, and he goes to battle against them and his own ghosts from the past.

“Though the Iron War had become cold for a time, it was clear the firestorm of emotions were never extinguished.�

The Euclid thought they had everything under control, but alas, everything is being unraveled by an unlikely band of warriors. I turned pages faster than I thought I could. Does it have some plot holes? Yeah, admittedly it does. But as the first in a series, I’m eager to see where this story goes in the next books. Some passages I had to reread as I thought I might have missed something, but overall it doesn’t take away from the main story in such a way that it’s misunderstood.


Intrigue/Excitement
This was an absolutely intriguing read, combining some of my favorite tropes from science fiction. I would definitely recommend this to readers, but would caution a younger crowd. It’s definitely an adult book and is advertised as such, but I wholeheartedly believe it would appeal to the YA crowd from the elder end of that spectrum (there are some graphic scenes and swearing that might not be totally suitable for the younger end of the spectrum.)

]]> <![CDATA[Nothing Larger Than These Stars (Iona Duology Book 1)]]> 214573700 Faith believed in the benevolence of the Company, until it used her code to frame her lover, then tried to kill them both.

On Company planet Home World, Faith uncovered secrets that made her a target in a shadowy game of interplanetary-scale corporate intrigue. She fled to independent Iona, where she’s spent the last eight years tinkering with space junk and keeping a low profile. But her carefully controlled life unravels when a mysterious someone attacks her planetmates with a chemical weapon that drops them into stasis and turns their bodies blue. Then the Company starts making noise about sending a representative to “help,� and all Faith’s alarm bells go off.

Proving a connection between the Company and the attacker might save Iona from both, but Faith can’t do it alone and her prospective allies all suspect each other. Should she trust the new arrival whose “nice guy� persona doesn’t quite match up with rumors of a shady past? Or the frosty Company official who’s clearly got an agenda of her own? And then there’s her long-lost lover, who lands on Iona full of secrets but no straight answers about what he’s been up to--or why he disappeared completely all those years ago.

Simply making the wrong choice could be enough to doom Iona, but as Faith discovers the hidden truth about the little planet, she realizes the Company may be the least of their problems.]]> 350 E. Marie Robertson Anie 4

Nothing Larger Than These Stars by E. Marie Robertson drew me in immediately, and while it was not completely unique in the science fiction realm, it stands out on its own as a must-read for people who love the genre. Sometimes, reading a lot of books from the same genre and even subgenre can dull the senses, but ‘Nothing Larger Than These Stars� is a page-turner with twists and turns that left me guessing until the cliffhanger at the end (and still guessing because it is part of a duology, and I will not know the full conclusion until I read the next book, which I will one-hundred percent be doing.)



Characters
There is a huge amount of character development going on in this one, with a strong female protagonist. Faith self-exiled off planet when things go awry, but what was a quiet life turned intense when the trouble followed her. Between herself and the side characters, she is on a mission to uncover the truth. While not completely character-driven, they certainly stand out and press the plot forward. It is a great combination of character-driven and plot-driven. Faith has no choice but to unravel corporate political terrorization, but she does it well, never really shying away from the task at hand. She’s on her toes and works well with others, and it left me on my own toes, too.


Atmosphere
While my time over the last few months reading not much else other than science fiction has jaded me for some tropes, ‘Nothing Larger Than These Stars� kept my attention and is unique in its own right. Sometimes it can be hard to separate plot lines when you’ve been reading so much of seemingly the same thing, but this one has impeccable world-building with descriptive visuals that brought me the page right to my imagination. I am admittedly more of a character-driven reader, and enjoy books that focus on the characters, but with that said, the atmosphere and plot-driven aspects combined wonderfully with the really strong protagonists and antagonists (I’m a bit of a villain-lover most times, but I felt myself rooting so heavily for the heroes of this story.)


Writing Style
Robertson has a way with words, and just as I said before, the world-building and character development make this an absolute page-turner. It’s easy to read, thrilling, and inescapably realistic in the attempt to bring the reader in on the mystery and the pull of espionage.


Plot/Logic
I’m combining these two tenets because they go hand-in-hand most times anyways. The plot, while again not completely original, is still interesting and I was pulled into the story from the first chapter. While we don’t get a conclusion in this book (it’s part of a duology) the logic of the characters intertwining with everything going on makes a huge impact, and is one of the reasons I really hope it moves on in the competition. It’s well worth the read just for the imaginative world-building and strong female lead character.


Intrigue
Was this intriguing? Absolutely! The twists! The thrills! The heated political disputes! Amazing world-building! I might sound like a broken record, but the pull was immediate and had me turning pages, hoping to uncover the truth. It’s raw, rife sweeping twists that had me hooked. Paired with energetic writing, the pace was fast and suspenseful. It’s a combination of political strife from the shady Company and their power over any who it reaches and a thrilling murder mystery that kept myself and the characters on their toes.


Excitement
I would one-hundred percent recommend this read. It’s well-paced and full of mystery. You’ll definitely see me talking about it on my socials and recommending it around to those I know love some politically intriguing science fiction. ]]> 4.67 Nothing Larger Than These Stars (Iona Duology Book 1)
author: E. Marie Robertson
name: Anie
average rating: 4.67
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/20
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on


Nothing Larger Than These Stars by E. Marie Robertson drew me in immediately, and while it was not completely unique in the science fiction realm, it stands out on its own as a must-read for people who love the genre. Sometimes, reading a lot of books from the same genre and even subgenre can dull the senses, but ‘Nothing Larger Than These Stars� is a page-turner with twists and turns that left me guessing until the cliffhanger at the end (and still guessing because it is part of a duology, and I will not know the full conclusion until I read the next book, which I will one-hundred percent be doing.)



Characters
There is a huge amount of character development going on in this one, with a strong female protagonist. Faith self-exiled off planet when things go awry, but what was a quiet life turned intense when the trouble followed her. Between herself and the side characters, she is on a mission to uncover the truth. While not completely character-driven, they certainly stand out and press the plot forward. It is a great combination of character-driven and plot-driven. Faith has no choice but to unravel corporate political terrorization, but she does it well, never really shying away from the task at hand. She’s on her toes and works well with others, and it left me on my own toes, too.


Atmosphere
While my time over the last few months reading not much else other than science fiction has jaded me for some tropes, ‘Nothing Larger Than These Stars� kept my attention and is unique in its own right. Sometimes it can be hard to separate plot lines when you’ve been reading so much of seemingly the same thing, but this one has impeccable world-building with descriptive visuals that brought me the page right to my imagination. I am admittedly more of a character-driven reader, and enjoy books that focus on the characters, but with that said, the atmosphere and plot-driven aspects combined wonderfully with the really strong protagonists and antagonists (I’m a bit of a villain-lover most times, but I felt myself rooting so heavily for the heroes of this story.)


Writing Style
Robertson has a way with words, and just as I said before, the world-building and character development make this an absolute page-turner. It’s easy to read, thrilling, and inescapably realistic in the attempt to bring the reader in on the mystery and the pull of espionage.


Plot/Logic
I’m combining these two tenets because they go hand-in-hand most times anyways. The plot, while again not completely original, is still interesting and I was pulled into the story from the first chapter. While we don’t get a conclusion in this book (it’s part of a duology) the logic of the characters intertwining with everything going on makes a huge impact, and is one of the reasons I really hope it moves on in the competition. It’s well worth the read just for the imaginative world-building and strong female lead character.


Intrigue
Was this intriguing? Absolutely! The twists! The thrills! The heated political disputes! Amazing world-building! I might sound like a broken record, but the pull was immediate and had me turning pages, hoping to uncover the truth. It’s raw, rife sweeping twists that had me hooked. Paired with energetic writing, the pace was fast and suspenseful. It’s a combination of political strife from the shady Company and their power over any who it reaches and a thrilling murder mystery that kept myself and the characters on their toes.


Excitement
I would one-hundred percent recommend this read. It’s well-paced and full of mystery. You’ll definitely see me talking about it on my socials and recommending it around to those I know love some politically intriguing science fiction.
]]> Moon Soul 198541396
August has never been good with change and isn’t sure who she is beyond her job of reading memories in the sand. When she comes to the conclusion that she has to quit her job, she’s left with an overwhelming sense of emptiness. What follows is the quiet chaos of a girl regaining control over her life on a small desert moon.

Deciding to take a job in the hanging gardens of the Spire, August discovers more to life as she meets new friends, forms a different connection with her home, and faces an unexpected visitor from her past.

Rich in relatable emotions and experiences, inspiring in message, and written in prose that will hook you from page one, Moon Soul is a science fantasy novella unlike any you’ve read before. It will leave you feeling seen and understood.]]> 212 Nathaniel Luscombe 1962337901 Anie 5
Set on a distant, purple moon, Moon Soul hit me right in my own soul. Initially standing out by its first-person perspective, I was immediately drawn into the cozy and surreal experience as August, a bit of a wayward individual who takes on a new job in the hanging gardens of her towering Spire home.

With the help of her therapist, August has to navigate new experiences, feelings, difficult family dynamics, and new friendships as someone who is used to a certain routine. But quitting her decidedly monotonous job of reading the sands for a sense of renewal and adventure, the hanging gardens throw her into something exhilarating and completely fresh. She not only meets new people, some of whom she may never had met if she had stayed stagnant, but also gets involved in a soft romance. She breaks out of her shell in many ways. Luscombe painting an inspiring picture for anyone who is feeling this same way: stuck.

I believe the use of first-person by Luscombe was brilliant in bring the reader directly into the story, and it may not have had the same impact on me if it had been told in the third. I felt like I was August, navigating my new life on a paradise-like moon.

From the stunning science-fiction landscape, to fantastical beings that can read memories in the purple sands below the towering Spire, Luscombe weaves a gentle and impactful story of risk and renewal.

This is perfect for anyone looking for a short, but compelling story of healing.

]]> 4.39 Moon Soul
author: Nathaniel Luscombe
name: Anie
average rating: 4.39
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/10/02
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

Set on a distant, purple moon, Moon Soul hit me right in my own soul. Initially standing out by its first-person perspective, I was immediately drawn into the cozy and surreal experience as August, a bit of a wayward individual who takes on a new job in the hanging gardens of her towering Spire home.

With the help of her therapist, August has to navigate new experiences, feelings, difficult family dynamics, and new friendships as someone who is used to a certain routine. But quitting her decidedly monotonous job of reading the sands for a sense of renewal and adventure, the hanging gardens throw her into something exhilarating and completely fresh. She not only meets new people, some of whom she may never had met if she had stayed stagnant, but also gets involved in a soft romance. She breaks out of her shell in many ways. Luscombe painting an inspiring picture for anyone who is feeling this same way: stuck.

I believe the use of first-person by Luscombe was brilliant in bring the reader directly into the story, and it may not have had the same impact on me if it had been told in the third. I felt like I was August, navigating my new life on a paradise-like moon.

From the stunning science-fiction landscape, to fantastical beings that can read memories in the purple sands below the towering Spire, Luscombe weaves a gentle and impactful story of risk and renewal.

This is perfect for anyone looking for a short, but compelling story of healing.


]]> <![CDATA[The Murder Algorithm: A Fast Paced Sci-fi Crime Thriller for the Social Media Age]]> 209347748 In a world where social media never sleeps, murder has a new audience—Roman Glass is about to face the deadliest broadcast of his life.

In a not-so-distant future where social media broadcasts people's lives 24 hours a day, Roman Glass is broadcast killing the number one media star. Now Roman must race against the clock to unravel a web of deceit. As he fights to prove his innocence, Social Media Investigator Rae Dettmer unearths a sinister a series of seemingly unrelated murders connected by the invisible threads of the digital realm.

The Murder Algorithm is an exciting blend of science fiction and mystery, where the line between private and public is as thin as the pixels on a screen. With each revelation, layers of intrigue are revealed, leaving readers questioning the price of fame, and the lengths the powerful will go to maintain control.

In the age of perpetual surveillance, the most dangerous game is the one played in plain sight.

Are you ready to challenge the boundaries of reality?

Join the adventure where every click, every post, and every like is a weapon. Get your copy today and follow Roman Glass in a race against time to unravel the truth.]]> 391 Wilson Kincaid Anie 4
The Murder Algorithm is a fast-paced science fiction blended with an intriguing murder mystery. Immediately I was drawn in by the way true reality is blended with the online reality created by the mega media conglomerate, StarSee. The surreal backdrop of a partially burning LA mixed with a reality-tv-like obsession kept me turning pages, eager to see if Roman Glass would be exonerated or eviscerated.


Characters
Roman Glass is determined to prove his innocence, not only to the Social Media Division and the Homicide Division of the LAPD, but to his online watchers. Throughout the book, the importance of both takes the stage. After years of improving his image and gaining Admiration Points, his involvement in the murder of superstar Starla Devine has not only tainted his reputation, but put a target on his back. He will do anything to clear his name, even trick the police.

Among the police is peppered those who want to progress the station into the online world of StarSee and those who want to uphold the law as it is and keep the prying eyes of the public out. Peppered in are some corrupt individuals, and the one person who believes Roman is innocent is none other than Rae Dettmer, an investigator in the recently formed Social Media Division. But she has more fish to fry than just this murder. She’s convinced there is nefarious involvement in several murders by the StarSee founding family: The Blakewells.

Which brings me to Maddox Blakewell. He’s a control-freak and a great villain in this story. He’s just psychotic and powerful enough to believe he can get away with anything, even bypassing his own algorithms. That is until Dettmer is on the case.

Overall these characters worked so well together and against each other, that is character-driven mystery kept me turning pages.


Atmosphere
While I was a bit surreal reading about LA in the current climate of early 2025, the hyper-reality show that has become society was intriguing. It begs the question: How far are people willing to go to have an online presence? When the new norm is driven by technology that keeps everyone connected and watching in real time, it’s both exhilarating and uncomfortable. Roman has to battle both to clear his name, and in the end, the technology ends up being pivotal.

It’s not something I think I would be completely comfortable with, but does have a bit of a “Black Mirror� feel to it.


Writing Style
Kincaid’s writing style flows well and easily. Even with the plethora of tech, it is easy to grasp and follow. The way it is written, it has both a current and far-future feel that will bring any reader of science-fiction immediately into his grasp.


Plot
This is certainly a page-turner for anyone who loves a good murder mystery with a future-feel. Just enough suspense to keep the reader interested while not too obvious that it’s predictable. In fact, I had expected a slightly different outcome. Again, it also doesn’t read as a setting so far distant from our own, making it relatable, if not close to a potential future we may experience at the rate our own technology is developing.


Intrigue/Excitement
I was immediately drawn into the story and it kept me reading. The dynamic between Roman and his group of loyal friends was great to see, and the fact that Dettmer wasn’t just a corrupt agent made it all the more intriguing. I was expecting it to go a bit differently with how much stock is put into each person’s online presence and the obvious power of StarSee, but those things aren’t important to her. In fact, she actively works against StarSee and their monopoly tactics. Without her tenacity, the story would have been cut and dry and the outcome would have benefited the villain far more than the protagonist.


The question you might be asking: Would I recommend this book?
The answer is: ABSOLUTELY.]]> 4.38 The Murder Algorithm: A Fast Paced Sci-fi Crime Thriller for the Social Media Age
author: Wilson Kincaid
name: Anie
average rating: 4.38
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/12
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

The Murder Algorithm is a fast-paced science fiction blended with an intriguing murder mystery. Immediately I was drawn in by the way true reality is blended with the online reality created by the mega media conglomerate, StarSee. The surreal backdrop of a partially burning LA mixed with a reality-tv-like obsession kept me turning pages, eager to see if Roman Glass would be exonerated or eviscerated.


Characters
Roman Glass is determined to prove his innocence, not only to the Social Media Division and the Homicide Division of the LAPD, but to his online watchers. Throughout the book, the importance of both takes the stage. After years of improving his image and gaining Admiration Points, his involvement in the murder of superstar Starla Devine has not only tainted his reputation, but put a target on his back. He will do anything to clear his name, even trick the police.

Among the police is peppered those who want to progress the station into the online world of StarSee and those who want to uphold the law as it is and keep the prying eyes of the public out. Peppered in are some corrupt individuals, and the one person who believes Roman is innocent is none other than Rae Dettmer, an investigator in the recently formed Social Media Division. But she has more fish to fry than just this murder. She’s convinced there is nefarious involvement in several murders by the StarSee founding family: The Blakewells.

Which brings me to Maddox Blakewell. He’s a control-freak and a great villain in this story. He’s just psychotic and powerful enough to believe he can get away with anything, even bypassing his own algorithms. That is until Dettmer is on the case.

Overall these characters worked so well together and against each other, that is character-driven mystery kept me turning pages.


Atmosphere
While I was a bit surreal reading about LA in the current climate of early 2025, the hyper-reality show that has become society was intriguing. It begs the question: How far are people willing to go to have an online presence? When the new norm is driven by technology that keeps everyone connected and watching in real time, it’s both exhilarating and uncomfortable. Roman has to battle both to clear his name, and in the end, the technology ends up being pivotal.

It’s not something I think I would be completely comfortable with, but does have a bit of a “Black Mirror� feel to it.


Writing Style
Kincaid’s writing style flows well and easily. Even with the plethora of tech, it is easy to grasp and follow. The way it is written, it has both a current and far-future feel that will bring any reader of science-fiction immediately into his grasp.


Plot
This is certainly a page-turner for anyone who loves a good murder mystery with a future-feel. Just enough suspense to keep the reader interested while not too obvious that it’s predictable. In fact, I had expected a slightly different outcome. Again, it also doesn’t read as a setting so far distant from our own, making it relatable, if not close to a potential future we may experience at the rate our own technology is developing.


Intrigue/Excitement
I was immediately drawn into the story and it kept me reading. The dynamic between Roman and his group of loyal friends was great to see, and the fact that Dettmer wasn’t just a corrupt agent made it all the more intriguing. I was expecting it to go a bit differently with how much stock is put into each person’s online presence and the obvious power of StarSee, but those things aren’t important to her. In fact, she actively works against StarSee and their monopoly tactics. Without her tenacity, the story would have been cut and dry and the outcome would have benefited the villain far more than the protagonist.


The question you might be asking: Would I recommend this book?
The answer is: ABSOLUTELY.
]]> <![CDATA[The City That Disappeared: The City That Disappeared Book 1]]> 218721115
Rebecca Vance fears that something disastrous has happened to Khonsu. She and her friend Mark Wu, the nearest thing there is to an expert on Reiddo, convince the leadership at the AAIR (the American Agency for Interplanetary Relations) to investigate the city’s strange disappearance, eventually making their way to the site of the lost city itself. From the beginning, the expedition is plagued by problems. The city isn't where it's supposed to be. There are mysterious deaths among the team members. Rebecca has never trusted easily, but she must put aside her fears and doubts in a frantic attempt to find survivors before they are lost forever. The natives are friendly and seem anxious to help, but they aren’t alone. A deadly secret puts her own life at risk and possibly the lives of the members of her team. It may even spell doom for the entire planet she calls home.]]> 390 Cheryl Peña Anie 4
Two researchers are left to figure out what’s happening when suddenly transmissions stop, confusing everyone and putting them into a bit of a panic. But they come together to solve the mystery, in a plot both eerie and thrilling.


Characters
Rebecca Vance and her counterpart Mark Wu compliment eachother. With a depth of character growth, the move from being a bit more reserved at the beginning to something blossoming comes in waves. They are researchers when suddenly transmissions from Khonsu cease and the burden of figuring it all out falls on their shoulders, problems and all.


Atmosphere/Plot
Earth is far more advanced and has definitively discovered other-wordly life, including massive advances in space travel and interstellar communication which brings the vast universe down to a size. What was once felt unconquerable is now accessible. This was a great read for those who like a bit of a space opera feel. The ending leaves room for future installments that I am eager to read, most certainly. At times this felt like it would tip into horror or something akin to Annihilation by Jeff Vandermeer (which still haunts me dreams to this day) when they explore abandoned sectors and I was fully expecting a jump scare, since there are some similarities in the sense there is an out-of-control lifeforms plaguing the area.


Writing Style
I do like Peña’s writing style. In an almost 400-page book there are bound to be some slower moments but I don’t think they took away from the overall story. There are mixed genres, and did sometimes feel like a “genre dump� where the author wanted to fit in as many tropes as they could, but again, I don’t think it took away from the mystery.


Logic
I liked how Rebecca and mark worked so well together, and I also think for the most part the story is logical. Where it could fall of the rails for some is the genre dumping, as mentioned before, where we go from something similar to a space research team to full blown space opera in the middle, on top of the added layer of spooky mystery that brings the whole thing together. The world-building is the real glue that kept me turning pages and enjoying the story.


Excitement
The real question everyone is asking is: Would I recommend this book? Absolutely. I think it’s a great setup for future installments and a good read for anyone who likes a little genre blending within the sci-fi realm.]]> 4.00 The City That Disappeared: The City That Disappeared Book 1
author: Cheryl Peña
name: Anie
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/01/24
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

Two researchers are left to figure out what’s happening when suddenly transmissions stop, confusing everyone and putting them into a bit of a panic. But they come together to solve the mystery, in a plot both eerie and thrilling.


Characters
Rebecca Vance and her counterpart Mark Wu compliment eachother. With a depth of character growth, the move from being a bit more reserved at the beginning to something blossoming comes in waves. They are researchers when suddenly transmissions from Khonsu cease and the burden of figuring it all out falls on their shoulders, problems and all.


Atmosphere/Plot
Earth is far more advanced and has definitively discovered other-wordly life, including massive advances in space travel and interstellar communication which brings the vast universe down to a size. What was once felt unconquerable is now accessible. This was a great read for those who like a bit of a space opera feel. The ending leaves room for future installments that I am eager to read, most certainly. At times this felt like it would tip into horror or something akin to Annihilation by Jeff Vandermeer (which still haunts me dreams to this day) when they explore abandoned sectors and I was fully expecting a jump scare, since there are some similarities in the sense there is an out-of-control lifeforms plaguing the area.


Writing Style
I do like Peña’s writing style. In an almost 400-page book there are bound to be some slower moments but I don’t think they took away from the overall story. There are mixed genres, and did sometimes feel like a “genre dump� where the author wanted to fit in as many tropes as they could, but again, I don’t think it took away from the mystery.


Logic
I liked how Rebecca and mark worked so well together, and I also think for the most part the story is logical. Where it could fall of the rails for some is the genre dumping, as mentioned before, where we go from something similar to a space research team to full blown space opera in the middle, on top of the added layer of spooky mystery that brings the whole thing together. The world-building is the real glue that kept me turning pages and enjoying the story.


Excitement
The real question everyone is asking is: Would I recommend this book? Absolutely. I think it’s a great setup for future installments and a good read for anyone who likes a little genre blending within the sci-fi realm.
]]> Failsafe 215075391
Matter Manipulation Devices alter the physical world, turning dreams into reality. But some dreams are treacherous, and the streets are filled with mods that manipulate matter in illegal and dangerous ways.

As a seasoned MMD agent, Anna fights back against the criminals who misuse these devices and traffic in illegal mods. When she intervenes in a plot to assassinate one of the world's most respected political leaders, her methods draw the ire of her superiors, and she finds herself under investigation from her own agency.

Increasingly isolated and unsure whom she can trust, Anna works to unravel a conspiracy that would unleash the worst potential of matter manipulation technology on the world.]]> 378 Jeff Sylvester Anie 4 This review was originally posted on


I was immediately taken by the strong science fiction tropes blended with a hearty crime thriller. It set a compelling tone that blurred the lines between technology and rebellion. But be warned, it is a first in a series, and does end on a cliff-hanger than had me eager for more. Criminals that have felt comfortable in their escapades are now in the spotlight when Anna Flynn is on the case of a particular perp, snowballing from a story where the bad guy isn't the only one on the run.

It’s futuristic while still having a homeworld feel, rife with political conspiracy and government overreach, and a strong female protagonist hellbent on justice.


Characters
Anna Flynn’s whole job is to focus on weeding out the illegal use of Matter Manipulation Devices, MMD, and what starts out as her tracking down a rogue agency quickly turns into her running for her proverbial life. She has to prove her own innocence to the very people she reports back to when a “failsafe� switch is turned off � allowing for anyone to take hold and take advantage of the technology. The key to her ultimate success or failure hinges on her husband, the tech genius Daniel Flynn and her partner Agent Lisa Williams as they move against the rogue group that call themselves “A Better Way�, but who she can trust is more up for debate than ever.


Atmosphere/Plot
As a heavily political science fiction thriller set in a close-to-home reality, Failsafe highlights the dangers of technology when integrated so deeply into the real world and what can happen when corrupt hands get their hands on manipulative technology. The MMDs have taken a hold, so much so that humans have started altering themselves in a cyborg-like fashion. So while the reader might not be jet setting off through space, they can hunker down to a read that brings them to familiar streets and scenarios that lead them on a twisted trail. On the brink of destruction, the richly built world is teetering upon the removal of the failsafe switch, and it’s up to Flynn to balance the scales once more.

Writing Style
This type of story needs no introduction, as there are common themes from within the genre, and the multi-POV, third person perspective weaves an interesting tale for any reader of science fiction and crime mysteries. It kept me on my toes, rooting for Anna as she works for herself and against retaliating forces.

Intrigue/Excitement
Betrayal, vengeance, the balance of control and power all come together in a character-driven plot that kept me turning pages. It almost has the same tone as The Matrix, sifting between code and reality. It really made me contemplate how much technology should be integrated into our own lives and the benefits and dangers of it being unleashed. Would I recommend this book: sure would! ]]> 4.00 Failsafe
author: Jeff Sylvester
name: Anie
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/11/12
date added: 2025/02/13
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on


I was immediately taken by the strong science fiction tropes blended with a hearty crime thriller. It set a compelling tone that blurred the lines between technology and rebellion. But be warned, it is a first in a series, and does end on a cliff-hanger than had me eager for more. Criminals that have felt comfortable in their escapades are now in the spotlight when Anna Flynn is on the case of a particular perp, snowballing from a story where the bad guy isn't the only one on the run.

It’s futuristic while still having a homeworld feel, rife with political conspiracy and government overreach, and a strong female protagonist hellbent on justice.


Characters
Anna Flynn’s whole job is to focus on weeding out the illegal use of Matter Manipulation Devices, MMD, and what starts out as her tracking down a rogue agency quickly turns into her running for her proverbial life. She has to prove her own innocence to the very people she reports back to when a “failsafe� switch is turned off � allowing for anyone to take hold and take advantage of the technology. The key to her ultimate success or failure hinges on her husband, the tech genius Daniel Flynn and her partner Agent Lisa Williams as they move against the rogue group that call themselves “A Better Way�, but who she can trust is more up for debate than ever.


Atmosphere/Plot
As a heavily political science fiction thriller set in a close-to-home reality, Failsafe highlights the dangers of technology when integrated so deeply into the real world and what can happen when corrupt hands get their hands on manipulative technology. The MMDs have taken a hold, so much so that humans have started altering themselves in a cyborg-like fashion. So while the reader might not be jet setting off through space, they can hunker down to a read that brings them to familiar streets and scenarios that lead them on a twisted trail. On the brink of destruction, the richly built world is teetering upon the removal of the failsafe switch, and it’s up to Flynn to balance the scales once more.

Writing Style
This type of story needs no introduction, as there are common themes from within the genre, and the multi-POV, third person perspective weaves an interesting tale for any reader of science fiction and crime mysteries. It kept me on my toes, rooting for Anna as she works for herself and against retaliating forces.

Intrigue/Excitement
Betrayal, vengeance, the balance of control and power all come together in a character-driven plot that kept me turning pages. It almost has the same tone as The Matrix, sifting between code and reality. It really made me contemplate how much technology should be integrated into our own lives and the benefits and dangers of it being unleashed. Would I recommend this book: sure would!
]]> <![CDATA[The Dark Element (Power of the Stars, #3)]]> 226067200 "Pain will become a known brother. Grief, a sister. Hatred will guide the stars like an overbearing parent, and death will be the child spawned from it all."

Alone and under constant duress, Colton fights to maintain his strength, will, and sanity.

Violet and a group of others struggle through their own hell, battling tyrannical guards, inhumane monsters, and a dangerous new element.

Meanwhile, Ace and the boys are desperate to find Colton. To gain the help they need to accomplish the task, they must travel to the mysterious and, perhaps, unwelcoming sister planets.

Back in the Vintaran System, V-Company does all it can to repel the Flame invaders from Penski. Win or lose: war always costs one's soul.

If these friends can't conquer their separate battles and save one another, then darkness will reign, and peace will become a distant memory to the souls of humanity.

The Dark Element is the thrilling third installment of the genre-bending science fantasy series Power of the Stars.]]> Bryan Wilson Anie 0 to-read 5.00 The Dark Element (Power of the Stars, #3)
author: Bryan Wilson
name: Anie
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/12
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Reign of Rose (The Sacred Stones, #3)]]> 205064757
They must save the world—but can they also save each other?

Kane Ravenwood, King of Onyx Kingdom, would go to the ends of the continent for Arwen Valondale, but what if she’s beyond even that? Broken in ways he never imagined he could be, Kane must find a way to fulfill the prophecy and kill his father, Fae King Lazarus. And after what he’s endured, he’s willing to save Evendell by whatever means necessary—even if that spells his own death.

Little does Kane know, he’s not the only one fighting for revenge. Arwen is no longer afraid to fight—no sacrifice is too great, no enemy too daunting. Now, nothing will stop her from destroying Lazarus and his allies, because she knows if she fails, both realms will be doomed forever.]]> 496 Kate Golden 0593641949 Anie 0 to-read 3.90 2024 A Reign of Rose (The Sacred Stones, #3)
author: Kate Golden
name: Anie
average rating: 3.90
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/11
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Sword of Kaigen 41886271 A son struggling to grasp his violent future,
A father blind to the danger that threatens them all.

When the winds of war reach their peninsula, will the Matsuda family have the strength to defend their empire? Or will they tear each other apart before the true enemies even reach their shores?

High on a mountainside at the edge of the Kaigenese Empire live the most powerful warriors in the world, superhumans capable of raising the sea and wielding blades of ice. For hundreds of years, the fighters of the Kusanagi Peninsula have held the Empire’s enemies at bay, earning their frozen spit of land the name ‘The Sword of Kaigen.�

Born into Kusanagi’s legendary Matsuda family, fourteen-year-old Mamoru has always known his purpose: to master his family’s fighting techniques and defend his homeland. But when an outsider arrives and pulls back the curtain on Kaigen’s alleged age of peace, Mamoru realizes that he might not have much time to become the fighter he was bred to be. Worse, the empire he was bred to defend may stand on a foundation of lies.

Misaki told herself that she left the passions of her youth behind when she married into the Matsuda house. Determined to be a good housewife and mother, she hid away her sword, along with everything from her days as a fighter in a faraway country. But with her growing son asking questions about the outside world, the threat of an impending invasion looming across the sea, and her frigid husband grating on her nerves, Misaki finds the fighter in her clawing its way back to the surface.]]> 651 M.L. Wang Anie 0 to-read 4.46 2019 The Sword of Kaigen
author: M.L. Wang
name: Anie
average rating: 4.46
book published: 2019
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/08
shelves: to-read
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]]> <![CDATA[Fourth Wing (The Empyrean, #1)]]> 61431922 Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders...

Twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail was supposed to enter the Scribe Quadrant, living a quiet life among books and history. Now, the commanding general—also known as her tough-as-talons mother—has ordered Violet to join the hundreds of candidates striving to become the elite of Navarre: dragon riders.

But when you’re smaller than everyone else and your body is brittle, death is only a heartbeat away...because dragons don’t bond to “fragile� humans. They incinerate them.

With fewer dragons willing to bond than cadets, most would kill Violet to better their own chances of success. The rest would kill her just for being her mother’s daughter—like Xaden Riorson, the most powerful and ruthless wingleader in the Riders Quadrant.

She’ll need every edge her wits can give her just to see the next sunrise.

Yet, with every day that passes, the war outside grows more deadly, the kingdom's protective wards are failing, and the death toll continues to rise. Even worse, Violet begins to suspect leadership is hiding a terrible secret.

Friends, enemies, lovers. Everyone at Basgiath War College has an agenda—because once you enter, there are only two ways out: graduate or die]]> 665 Rebecca Yarros 1649374046 Anie 3 4.56 2023 Fourth Wing (The Empyrean, #1)
author: Rebecca Yarros
name: Anie
average rating: 4.56
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2023/05/17
date added: 2025/02/08
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]]> <![CDATA[A Promise of Peridot (The Sacred Stones, #2)]]> 175345169 A prophecy of death. A weapon of hope. A sacrifice of love.

Arwen Valondale is sailing for the mysterious Kingdom of Citrine after the battle of Siren's Bay. Reeling from shocking revelations and her newfound powers, Arwen directs all of her pain and rage toward the man who betrayed her: King Kane Ravenwood.

Kane's presence is unavoidable as he travels with Arwen and her friends to seek the Blade of the Sun, a legendary weapon inextricably tied to her fate and the future of the realm. Even an uneasy truce proves difficult as Arwen fights against her unresolved feelings for Kane, who is willing to become darkness itself to protect her.

As Arwen faces creatures, foes, and magic beyond her wildest imaginings, she must discover the secrets of her past to defeat the monstrous Fae king Lazarus. But finding the light within might mean the death of her and everyone she loves.]]> 482 Kate Golden 1529434076 Anie 4 review to come. <br /> 4.02 2024 A Promise of Peridot (The Sacred Stones, #2)
author: Kate Golden
name: Anie
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/08
date added: 2025/02/08
shelves:
review:
review to come.

]]> <![CDATA[The Man-Kzin Wars (Man-Kzin Wars, #1)]]> 302546
Contents:
1 · Introduction · Larry Niven · in *
5 · The Warriors · Larry Niven · ss If Feb �66
27 · Iron [Part 1 of 2] · Poul Anderson · n. Far Frontiers Vol. VII, ed. Jerry Pournelle & Jim Baen, Baen, 1986
116 · Iron [Part 2 of 2] · Poul Anderson · n. New Destinies, Vol. 1, ed. Jim Baen, Baen, 1987
179 · Cathouse · Dean Ing · na New Destinies, Vol. III, ed. Jim Baen, Baen, 1988

]]> 289 Larry Niven 1416532838 Anie 0 to-read, will-get-back-to 3.69 1988 The Man-Kzin Wars (Man-Kzin Wars, #1)
author: Larry Niven
name: Anie
average rating: 3.69
book published: 1988
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/02/07
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]]> Brimstone (Fae & Alchemy, #2) 222139748 Duty. Blood. Honour. Power.

Saeris Fane doesn't want power. The very last thing she needs is her name whispered on an entire court's lips, but now that she's been crowned queen of the Blood Court, she's discovering that a queen's life is not her own. A heavy weight rests upon her shoulders.

Her ward - and her brother - need her back in her homeland . . . but the changes that have strengthened Saeris have also made her weak. Born under blazing suns, Saeris will surely die if she makes her way home through the Quicksilver. Which means that, once again, she must send someone else in her stead . . .

'Keep your mouth shut. Stick to the shadows. And for the love of all seven Gods, do NOT crack any jokes.'

Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate has defeated armies and survived all manner of horrors, but traveling back to Zilvaren with Carrion Swift might just be the death of him. The male just will not shut up. Hidden dangers await them down the narrow alleyways of the Silver City. Unfolding secrets pose impossible threats. Fisher must wrangle the smuggler and accomplish his goals quickly if he wants to see his mate again.

A darkness falls across Yvelia. The realm and their friends are in danger. Together, Saeris and Fisher will pass through fire and brimstone to save them.]]> 720 Callie Hart 1538774224 Anie 0 to-read 4.30 2025 Brimstone (Fae & Alchemy, #2)
author: Callie Hart
name: Anie
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/07
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]]> <![CDATA[Of Friction (Altered Earth #1)]]> 203196749 Decades of hostilities. A chance for peace. Caught between belligerent groups, will this operation be her last?

Sam “Valkyrie� Ryan is reeling. Struggling with her brother’s recent decision to make their next assignment his last, the recon specialist fights to change his mind. But she has no time to process her emotions when they’re tasked to protect a pivotal reconciliation summit between the Altered and Humans from human-supremacist terrorists.

Distracted by a charming medic, the golden-haired marine struggles to stay focused as events quickly unravel. And with the conflict becoming dangerously unpredictable, secrets from the past catch Sam by surprise as she uncovers a plot to destroy all of humanity.

Can she stop a violent and oppressive history from spiraling into a catastrophic future?

Of Friction is the fast-paced first book in the Altered Earth dystopian military speculative fiction series. If you like strong women, tense action, and slow-burn dynamics, then you’ll love S.J. Lee’s gripping story.

Buy Of Friction to launch a critical mission today!]]> 388 S.J. Lee Anie 4 gathering my thoughts but for now: really enjoyed this one, and a great audiobook.]]> 4.60 Of Friction (Altered Earth #1)
author: S.J. Lee
name: Anie
average rating: 4.60
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2025/02/03
date added: 2025/02/03
shelves:
review:
review to come!!
gathering my thoughts but for now: really enjoyed this one, and a great audiobook.
]]> <![CDATA[Magician: Apprentice (The Riftwar Saga, #1)]]> 13812 here.

To the forest on the shore of the Kingdom of the Isles, the orphan Pug came to study with the master magician Kulgan. His courage won him a place at court and the heart of a lovely Princess, but he was ill at ease with normal wizardry. Yet his strange magic may save two worlds from dark beings who opened spacetime to renew the age-old battle between Order and Chaos.]]> 485 Raymond E. Feist 0553564943 Anie 0 to-read 4.18 1982 Magician: Apprentice (The Riftwar Saga, #1)
author: Raymond E. Feist
name: Anie
average rating: 4.18
book published: 1982
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/02/03
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]]> Swallowed 221101521
Humanity's first mission to the Planet ended in tragedy, but botanist Jill Jones won’t let that stop her from joining the second.

Perfect climate, perfect terrain, perfect flora and fauna; the Planet has called to Jill all of her life. She knows, with bone-deep certainty, it's home. A new beginning for humanity. She just needs a chance to prove it.

But as Jill and her team survey the Planet, a mysterious presence begins to infiltrate their thoughts. When her colleagues start to disappear, it's up to Jill to uproot the Planet's secrets before they consume her, her friends, and the one man she would do anything to keep.]]> 180 Meg Smitherman Anie 5 review to come. 4.03 Swallowed
author: Meg Smitherman
name: Anie
average rating: 4.03
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/29
date added: 2025/01/29
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review to come.
]]> Les Miserables 23846159
“So long as ignorance and poverty exist on earth, books of the nature of Les Misérables cannot fail to be of use,� says Victor Hugo in the preface of his famous novel. Set in the years after the French Revolution, Les Misérables is certainly French history recounted through the personal stories of its main Jean Valjean, Fantine, Cosette, Javert, and others. And the novel offers philosophical insight on the good deeds that can happen even amidst ignorance and poverty. This handsome leather-bound volume is a beautiful addition to any classic literature library with specially designed endpapers, gilded edges, and a ribbon bookmark so you will never lose your place.]]> 1264 Victor Hugo 1626864640 Anie 0 4.51 1862 Les Miserables
author: Victor Hugo
name: Anie
average rating: 4.51
book published: 1862
rating: 0
read at:
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]]> Don Quixote 3835 Don Quixote chronicles the adventures of the self-created knight-errant Don Quixote of La Mancha and his faithful squire, Sancho Panza, as they travel through sixteenth-century Spain. You haven't experienced Don Quixote in English until you've read this masterful translation.]]> 940 Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 0060934344 Anie 0 4.12 1615 Don Quixote
author: Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
name: Anie
average rating: 4.12
book published: 1615
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/29
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]]> Cranford 182381
Cranford depicts the lives and preoccupations of the inhabitants of a small village - their petty snobberies, appetite for gossip, and loyal support for each other in times of need This is a community that runs on cooperation and gossip, at the very heart of which are the daughters of the former rector: Miss Deborah Jenkyns and her sister Miss Matty, But domestic peace is constantly threatened in the form of financial disaster, imagined burglaries, tragic accidents, and the reapparance of long-lost relatives. to Lady Glenmire, who shocks everyone by marrying the doctor. When men do appear, such as 'modern' Captain Brown or Matty's suitor from the past, they bring disruption and excitement to the everyday life of Cranford.

In her introduction, Patricia Ingham places the novel in its literary and historical context, and discusses the theme of female friendship and Gaskell's narrative technique. This edition also contains an account of Gaskell's childhood in Knutsford, on which Cranford is based, appendices on fashion and domestic duties supplemented by illustrations, a chronology of Gaskell's life and works, suggestions for further reading, and explanatory notes.]]> 257 Elizabeth Gaskell 0141439882 Anie 0 3.85 1853 Cranford
author: Elizabeth Gaskell
name: Anie
average rating: 3.85
book published: 1853
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/29
shelves: 2025-classics-book-club-picks, to-read-classics
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]]> Tomorrow's Child 68002626
Join Jax as she unravels the secrets of this alien world and explores a burgeoning romance, all while struggling to get her ship and crew home.]]> 205 D.G. Barnes 1999452933 Anie 1 4.00 Tomorrow's Child
author: D.G. Barnes
name: Anie
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 1
read at: 2024/11/19
date added: 2025/01/24
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]]> A Dirge for Cascius: Part I 211131533 True Detective meets Hyperion in this epic space opera debut, perfect for fans of James S.A. Corey and Christopher Ruocchio.

Chaos seeps into the Valsollas Galaxy.

Cascius Carcyde is on the brink of letting his addiction to reliving his sorrows claim his mind. When the Sages demand he take a new partner, Cascius must forfeit his old ways in order to solve the twisted Red Hand murders.

To unravel an interstellar mystery and stop the Red Hand, Cascius must pull himself from the very depths of despair and learn to change before the entire Velutra falls into oblivion.

Stare too long into the abyss, and the abyss peers back.]]> 475 Calum Lott 1763518116 Anie 0 to-read 4.32 A Dirge for Cascius: Part I
author: Calum Lott
name: Anie
average rating: 4.32
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/01/22
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]]> <![CDATA[The Justice of Kings (Empire of the Wolf, #1)]]> 58293284
The Empire of the Wolf simmers with unrest. Rebels, heretics, and powerful patricians all challenge the power of the Imperial throne. Only the Order of Justices stands in the way of chaos. Sir Konrad Vonvalt is the most feared Justice of all, upholding the law by way of his sharp mind, arcane powers, and skill as a swordsman. At his side stands Helena Sedanka, his talented protégé, orphaned by the wars that forged the Empire. When the pair investigates the murder of a provincial aristocrat, they unearth a conspiracy that stretches to the very top of Imperial society. As the stakes rise and become ever more personal, Vonvalt and Helena must make a choice: Will they abandon the laws they’ve sworn to uphold, in order to protect the Empire?]]> 496 Richard Swan Anie 0 to-read 4.00 2022 The Justice of Kings (Empire of the Wolf, #1)
author: Richard Swan
name: Anie
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/14
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Grave Empire (The Great Silence, #1)]]> 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 ofempire. Now it is money.

A new age of exploration and innovation has dawned, and theEmpireof 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, theEmpire’s proxy war in the lands of the wolfmen is weeks away from total collapse.

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.

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 theEmpireon the brink of supernatural catastrophe, soon there may not be a world left to save...]]> 529 Richard Swan Anie 0 to-read 4.18 2025 Grave Empire (The Great Silence, #1)
author: Richard Swan
name: Anie
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2025
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/01/14
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]]> The Mimameid Solution 123212500
Five years after the world he knew collapsed in ecological disaster, Lysander is back in his homeland of Old Scandinavia with his companions, Magdelena and Linnaea. The atmosphere is full of ash, the days are cold and dark and they are constantly under threat from the Celts, who have invaded and are burning the countryside in their wake. When a rogue group of soldiers led by a fiery Lieutenant named Petra offers them refuge in a place called Mimameid, they are tempted by a chance at safety.

But when Mimameid turns out to be more than he bargained for, Lysander must take control of his own fate and decide whether to stay or to go.]]> 495 Katherine Kempf 1960477013 Anie 0 to-read 4.50 The Mimameid Solution
author: Katherine Kempf
name: Anie
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 0
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date added: 2025/01/13
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]]> The Parallels 36276602 A scientist with the key to humanity’s future.
A girl locked in a glass tank.

One seeking justice. One seeking fame. One seeking answers. With the galaxy on the brink of war, time is not on their side.

Join them in their battle for survival.]]> 168 Keyla Damaer Anie 3 3.58 2017 The Parallels
author: Keyla Damaer
name: Anie
average rating: 3.58
book published: 2017
rating: 3
read at: 2024/12/28
date added: 2025/01/13
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review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Child of the Greenwood (The Song of the Sleepers, #1.5)]]> 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 Anie 5 Review coming very soon, but for now: this is excellent. ]]> 4.65 The Child of the Greenwood (The Song of the Sleepers, #1.5)
author: Joshua Walker
name: Anie
average rating: 4.65
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2025/01/12
date added: 2025/01/12
shelves:
review:
Wow.
Review coming very soon, but for now: this is excellent.
]]> <![CDATA[An Empire of Dirt & Lies (The Song of the Sleepers, #2)]]> 220929370
At the cost of finding her father's killer, the presumed-dead Queen Esme finds herself in the enemy's hands, living with a new name and an insurmountable task: destroy the Empire of Therador from the inside out.

Aobian fighters rescue their exiled one, Drift, and reveal the weight of hundreds of years worth in secrets. Lies are more valuable than truths, and only time will tell how far the truth can really go. One book of histories may be the answer, but Drift's search is urgent, and time is running out.]]> Joshua Walker Anie 0 to-read 0.0 2025 An Empire of Dirt & Lies (The Song of the Sleepers, #2)
author: Joshua Walker
name: Anie
average rating: 0.0
book published: 2025
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[From the Mountains to the Valley: An Earth-Treader Epilogue (The Earthen-Crest Kingdoms, #1.5)]]> 61398344
From the Mountains to the Valley is the untold epilogue of The Earth-Treader. Both bittersweet and reminiscent of Rylla’s past adventures, this short tale answers the long-awaited question: “What happens next?”]]> 80 Alissa J. Zavalianos Anie 0 to-read 4.74 From the Mountains to the Valley: An Earth-Treader Epilogue (The Earthen-Crest Kingdoms, #1.5)
author: Alissa J. Zavalianos
name: Anie
average rating: 4.74
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Iron Fall (Iron Legacy, #2) 222659325
New Gravidus. Euclidians deserters. Political rivals. Cato and Helena are doomed to end the lives they rebelled to save if they are unable to confront sins both past and present. They have lost too many lives while the battle for a just, peaceful future has only just begun. Only they can be bold enough to end it.]]> Gavin Oxley Anie 0 to-read 0.0 Iron Fall (Iron Legacy, #2)
author: Gavin Oxley
name: Anie
average rating: 0.0
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2025/01/05
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> The Annotated Mansfield Park 18310155 An alternative cover can be found here.

Adopted into the household of her uncle, Sir Thomas Bertram, Fanny Price grows up a meek outsider among her cousins in the unaccustomed elegance of Mansfield Park. Soon after Sir Thomas absents himself on estate business in Antigua (the family's investment in slavery and sugar is considered in the Introduction in a new, post-colonial light), Mary Crawford and her brother Henry arrive at Mansfield, bringing with them London glamour, and the seductive taste for flirtation and theatre that precipitates a crisis. While Mansfield Park appears in some ways to continue where Pride and Prejudice left off, it is, as Kathryn Sutherland shows in her illuminating Introduction, a much darker work, which challenges 'the very values (of tradition, stability, retirement and faithfulness) it appears to endorse'. This new edition provides an accurate text based, for the first time since its original publication, on the first edition of 1814.]]> 885 Jane Austen 0307390799 Anie 3 classic-literature 4.28 1814 The Annotated Mansfield Park
author: Jane Austen
name: Anie
average rating: 4.28
book published: 1814
rating: 3
read at: 2018/08/03
date added: 2024/12/20
shelves: classic-literature
review:

]]> The New World 125429118
An AI calling itself Schema has assimilated earth into its System. As a consequence, everyone gained access to status screens, power-ups, and skills. This AI turned these concepts from fiction to fact. It's easy to become intoxicated with leveling up and becoming stronger. To some, it's too good to be true like living out a dream. For Daniel, however, it's closer to a nightmare. He's in a bit of a predicament. Cracks in our dimensional fabric have unleashed terrifying beasts from dark, abyssal places. Schema organizes these cracks into dungeons, giving the native species of the planet a chance to fight back.

Daniel finds himself stuck in one of these dungeons. It's time to break free, by any means necessary.]]> 849 Monsoon117 Anie 3 audiobook, litrpg This review was originally posted on




Characters - I liked but didn’t love them (overall score: 6/10)

Daniel is thrust into a world that is a hellish nightmare, but he takes everything in stride. Because this subgenre has a habit of throwing characters into these gamer situations, this wasn’t weird, but the speed at which a seemingly normal guy leveled up was a bit inconsistent. That being said, because he has leveled up so quickly, he progresses through The New World, and the fast pace of the rest of the story makes up for this. However, I didn’t like certain aspects of the antagonist(s). Of course, the MC must beat local “bosses,� but events within the book's first third derailed the story, and everything felt disjointed after that point.



Atmosphere � (overall score: 12/14)

Setting: I want to read more like this (9/10)

The setting was interesting: space rifts, AI-generated gamer interfaces, and everything that makes alien landscapes cool are included. I would absolutely read more books with this setting.



Mood: Some scenes had me captivated (3/4)

The first third of this book is fast-paced and kept me captivated with epic, detailed battle scenes. But I think the overabundance of stats killed the mood in other scenes. (I will speak more about this in Writing Style)



Writing Style � (overall score: 10/18)

Storytelling: I had to re-read some passages (4/10)

The overwhelming amount of stats thrown at the reader had me re-listening to them (in this case, pausing, following in the ebook, and reading the stats.) Even for a LitRPG, a lot of dense information was thrown at you and not in a way that made it easy to follow.



Grammar: Noticeable errors (2/4)

Everything was fine until the book's last portion, where there were blatant errors (not capitalizing the names of characters, spelling, etc.) I’m not sure what happened, but if you read this, you will see them. If you listen, you won’t notice. Unfortunately, I followed along in the book for some portions and noticed them.



Formatting: No issues (4/4)



Plot � Not unique, but enjoyable (overall score: 7/10)

This is set in a simulation, and killing off alien beasties might not be new to this genre, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t enjoyable! I like tropes, and I even like the overdone ones, so escaping an AI realm hellbent on killing the MC was definitely a fun ride.


Intrigue � (overall score: 7/14)

General: No strong feelings (5/10)

I was neither wowed nor disappointed with this book. The audiobook made it easy to get through, but I would have put it down frequently if I had not listened to it. Up until the first third of the book, I was listening with anticipation, but an event occurring around that point (keeping this spoiler-free) derailed the story, and the rest fell flat.



Re-Readability: Would not reread (2/4)



Logic - (overall score: 9/14)

Plot Logic: Mostly explained, but something is missing (6/10)

Maybe because Daniel didn’t make it to the training module and the information was given in dumps, it felt like there was something just slightly off that could have been rounded off.



Character Logic: Some characters didn’t fit (3/4)

Daniel meets up with some others in the dungeons, and personally, I don’t think they add too much to the overall story because Daniel is kind of doing his own thing anyway most of the time. They didn’t hold back the story but could have been more formed.



Excitement � Glad I picked it up but not wowed (6/10)

On the whole, I did like this book! Definitely has plenty of epic fight scenes and eldritch horrors that will pull any lover of Sci Fi in. However, the stats (while a staple in LitRPGs) were too dense, and the disjointed storyline left it hanging.

Audiobook Review:



Dialogue � Dialogue had awkward moments (3/4)

Performance � Good performance (3/4)

Pace � Pace had incongruencies (3/4)



Scores:

CAWPILE: 57/90

DP2: 9/12]]> 4.06 2023 The New World
author: Monsoon117
name: Anie
average rating: 4.06
book published: 2023
rating: 3
read at: 2024/03/19
date added: 2024/10/31
shelves: audiobook, litrpg
review:

This review was originally posted on




Characters - I liked but didn’t love them (overall score: 6/10)

Daniel is thrust into a world that is a hellish nightmare, but he takes everything in stride. Because this subgenre has a habit of throwing characters into these gamer situations, this wasn’t weird, but the speed at which a seemingly normal guy leveled up was a bit inconsistent. That being said, because he has leveled up so quickly, he progresses through The New World, and the fast pace of the rest of the story makes up for this. However, I didn’t like certain aspects of the antagonist(s). Of course, the MC must beat local “bosses,� but events within the book's first third derailed the story, and everything felt disjointed after that point.



Atmosphere � (overall score: 12/14)

Setting: I want to read more like this (9/10)

The setting was interesting: space rifts, AI-generated gamer interfaces, and everything that makes alien landscapes cool are included. I would absolutely read more books with this setting.



Mood: Some scenes had me captivated (3/4)

The first third of this book is fast-paced and kept me captivated with epic, detailed battle scenes. But I think the overabundance of stats killed the mood in other scenes. (I will speak more about this in Writing Style)



Writing Style � (overall score: 10/18)

Storytelling: I had to re-read some passages (4/10)

The overwhelming amount of stats thrown at the reader had me re-listening to them (in this case, pausing, following in the ebook, and reading the stats.) Even for a LitRPG, a lot of dense information was thrown at you and not in a way that made it easy to follow.



Grammar: Noticeable errors (2/4)

Everything was fine until the book's last portion, where there were blatant errors (not capitalizing the names of characters, spelling, etc.) I’m not sure what happened, but if you read this, you will see them. If you listen, you won’t notice. Unfortunately, I followed along in the book for some portions and noticed them.



Formatting: No issues (4/4)



Plot � Not unique, but enjoyable (overall score: 7/10)

This is set in a simulation, and killing off alien beasties might not be new to this genre, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t enjoyable! I like tropes, and I even like the overdone ones, so escaping an AI realm hellbent on killing the MC was definitely a fun ride.


Intrigue � (overall score: 7/14)

General: No strong feelings (5/10)

I was neither wowed nor disappointed with this book. The audiobook made it easy to get through, but I would have put it down frequently if I had not listened to it. Up until the first third of the book, I was listening with anticipation, but an event occurring around that point (keeping this spoiler-free) derailed the story, and the rest fell flat.



Re-Readability: Would not reread (2/4)



Logic - (overall score: 9/14)

Plot Logic: Mostly explained, but something is missing (6/10)

Maybe because Daniel didn’t make it to the training module and the information was given in dumps, it felt like there was something just slightly off that could have been rounded off.



Character Logic: Some characters didn’t fit (3/4)

Daniel meets up with some others in the dungeons, and personally, I don’t think they add too much to the overall story because Daniel is kind of doing his own thing anyway most of the time. They didn’t hold back the story but could have been more formed.



Excitement � Glad I picked it up but not wowed (6/10)

On the whole, I did like this book! Definitely has plenty of epic fight scenes and eldritch horrors that will pull any lover of Sci Fi in. However, the stats (while a staple in LitRPGs) were too dense, and the disjointed storyline left it hanging.

Audiobook Review:



Dialogue � Dialogue had awkward moments (3/4)

Performance � Good performance (3/4)

Pace � Pace had incongruencies (3/4)



Scores:

CAWPILE: 57/90

DP2: 9/12
]]> <![CDATA[Hand of the Executioner (City of Chains #1)]]> 208888147
The corrupt city of Adelstrad is full of blood, lies and shit. If an invading barbarian screaming prayers to unspeakable gods doesn't kill you, the thugs inside the walls will. Schemes breed like flies in a corpse. Even in death, there is no peace. The alchemists reanimate the fallen as enslaved automata.

Viktor is a defiant criminal. He angered the ruthless Baron and was given a choice: serve or die. Now he grudgingly acts as the state-sanctioned executioner. He carries out the tyrant's savage parody of justice, secretly fighting for those he can save.

Enter Milletra, a brutal smuggler bearing a hateful grudge against Viktor. She's hauling a hazardous alchemical cocktail into the city. The lunatic could murder thousands, so Viktor's superiors want her head. His reward is a pardon, but Milletra won't be easily dealt with. Even if he does succeed, there's something insidious lurking in the city, something that could be disastrous if not stopped...

He's the closest thing we have to a champion. Will he be enough? Buy now to find out!
If you enjoyed Game of Thrones and the Witcher, then you'll love Hand of the Executioner.]]> 237 Sebastian Priest Anie 0 4.38 2023 Hand of the Executioner (City of Chains #1)
author: Sebastian Priest
name: Anie
average rating: 4.38
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at: 2024/04/01
date added: 2024/10/31
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Son of the Prophets (Power of the Stars, #2)]]> 205204503 The Son of the Prophets is the thrilling second installment of the genre-bending science fantasy series Power of the Stars.


"Those of white and those of flame will clash, and the universe will begin to shake."

Colton's mission is straightforward: go home to Earth, wield the power of the stars for all to see, and seek the prophet his planet was named after. But nothing has come easy since he left his world.

Traitors lurk in the shadows, causing chaos across the stars. War has begun, and with newfound responsibilities arising, those around Colton realize they will have to carry some of the burden if there's to be any hope of defeating the Army of Flame.

Ace and Morris set out on their own course, hunting a rogue admiral down at Willick's side. Meanwhile, Violet Doku travels with her fellow soldiers of Vintara Company, sailing to the mysterious Forsaken Barrier, where the fight they have trained for lies in wait.

Colton knows he will have to be quick with his tasks if he hopes to fulfill the prophecies and save mankind. But when age-old mysteries are answered, and past conflicts reemerge, he starts to question whether he can even save himself.

"A heart-pounding, exhilarating continuation of a sweeping space opera, with the detailed worldbuilding and scope necessary to become a must-read for lovers of fantasy and science fiction." - The Dragon Reread, SFF Insiders

"Had me yearning for more with how violently intense and impactful some plot points were...The Son of the Prophets is an engagingly excellent entry into the Power of the Stars series and an absolute gem that needs to be picked up." - The Wulvers Library, FanFiAddict]]> 496 Bryan Wilson Anie 4 This review was originally posted on


Picking up where The Forsaken Planet left off, readers are thrust back into the world of Colt and his crew as they navigate familiar enemies and unforeseen obstacles on the search for the prophet. What started as a coming-of-age has progressed into a coming-into-power story of epic proportions.
The Son of the Prophets by Bryan Wilson

Characters - Most of them are really good (overall score: 8/10)

Immediately, the characters are more fleshed out, especially the ones for which we get extra POVs. It creates depth in the story with perspectives we didn’t see before. I can also see Wilson changed the tune of particular characters to make them more relatable (likable even. I’m looking at you, MOM.)


Atmosphere � (overall score: 12/14)

Setting: I want to read more like this (9/10)

Wilson's world-building weaves fantasy with reality well. His blending of the characters' stories with human folklore added depth the first lacked. Where The Forsaken Planet suffered slightly from “first of a series syndrome�, Son of the Prophets picks up and improves on it.

Mood: Some scenes had me captivated (3/4)

While some scenes were slow, for the most part, this book was action-packed.

Writing Style � (overall score: 15/18)

Storytelling: Engaging but missing something (7/10)

Bryan’s writing lacked confidence in scenes where it needed it. His writing is engaging and has improved since his first book, which is always good. It certainly didn’t take away from the story’s flow as a whole, but was noticeable in those scenes.


Grammar: No grammatical errors (4/4)

This is an arc, so I don’t place too much importance on this against the author since things like this can still be corrected before publication. However, I do not recall seeing any errors anyway.

Formatting: No issues (4/4)



Plot � A little different and well-paced (8/10)

As a sequel, readers will already be familiar with what’s happening, but the twists and turns had me flipping pages. This storyline is much more mature and action-packed than the first, and Colt and his crew are more established.



Intrigue � (overall score: 10/14)

General: Kept me guessing and engaged (7/10)

Again, as a sequel, we know what’s going on for the most part, but I was flipping pages!



Re-Readability: Would reread (3/4)



Logic - (overall score: 11/14)

Plot Logic: I understand but am not wowed (8/10)

As the middle of a series, it understandably doesn’t start from the bottom with the plot, but the places Wilson did take it build on the world he created.



Character Logic: Some characters didn’t fit (3/4)

The extra POVs are a great addition. This went from a coming-of-age story to a coming-into-power story, and Colt rose to the occasion. However, I still wasn’t a huge fan of some characters.



Excitement � Have told my friends about it (9/10)

Overall, this ride was thrilling, and I’m eager to share about it. It is an epic sequel!



Scores:

CAWPILE: 73/90 ]]> 4.69 The Son of the Prophets (Power of the Stars, #2)
author: Bryan Wilson
name: Anie
average rating: 4.69
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/03/19
date added: 2024/10/31
shelves:
review:

This review was originally posted on


Picking up where The Forsaken Planet left off, readers are thrust back into the world of Colt and his crew as they navigate familiar enemies and unforeseen obstacles on the search for the prophet. What started as a coming-of-age has progressed into a coming-into-power story of epic proportions.
The Son of the Prophets by Bryan Wilson

Characters - Most of them are really good (overall score: 8/10)

Immediately, the characters are more fleshed out, especially the ones for which we get extra POVs. It creates depth in the story with perspectives we didn’t see before. I can also see Wilson changed the tune of particular characters to make them more relatable (likable even. I’m looking at you, MOM.)


Atmosphere � (overall score: 12/14)

Setting: I want to read more like this (9/10)

Wilson's world-building weaves fantasy with reality well. His blending of the characters' stories with human folklore added depth the first lacked. Where The Forsaken Planet suffered slightly from “first of a series syndrome�, Son of the Prophets picks up and improves on it.

Mood: Some scenes had me captivated (3/4)

While some scenes were slow, for the most part, this book was action-packed.

Writing Style � (overall score: 15/18)

Storytelling: Engaging but missing something (7/10)

Bryan’s writing lacked confidence in scenes where it needed it. His writing is engaging and has improved since his first book, which is always good. It certainly didn’t take away from the story’s flow as a whole, but was noticeable in those scenes.


Grammar: No grammatical errors (4/4)

This is an arc, so I don’t place too much importance on this against the author since things like this can still be corrected before publication. However, I do not recall seeing any errors anyway.

Formatting: No issues (4/4)



Plot � A little different and well-paced (8/10)

As a sequel, readers will already be familiar with what’s happening, but the twists and turns had me flipping pages. This storyline is much more mature and action-packed than the first, and Colt and his crew are more established.



Intrigue � (overall score: 10/14)

General: Kept me guessing and engaged (7/10)

Again, as a sequel, we know what’s going on for the most part, but I was flipping pages!



Re-Readability: Would reread (3/4)



Logic - (overall score: 11/14)

Plot Logic: I understand but am not wowed (8/10)

As the middle of a series, it understandably doesn’t start from the bottom with the plot, but the places Wilson did take it build on the world he created.



Character Logic: Some characters didn’t fit (3/4)

The extra POVs are a great addition. This went from a coming-of-age story to a coming-into-power story, and Colt rose to the occasion. However, I still wasn’t a huge fan of some characters.



Excitement � Have told my friends about it (9/10)

Overall, this ride was thrilling, and I’m eager to share about it. It is an epic sequel!



Scores:

CAWPILE: 73/90
]]> <![CDATA[Spark of the Divine (The Kalaraak Chronicles, #1)]]> 195976217
As a Divine, Mae wields her strange gifts quietly as a mercenary—until a simple rescue job has her crew uncover a plot to steal divinity from the gods. When the god Mae serves is attacked, she must restore their power before the seven realms are thrown into chaos.

Originally inspired by a years-long Dungeons and Dragons campaign; and the first instalment in fantasy series The Kalaraak Chronicles, SPARK OF THE DIVINE follows a group of reluctant heroes on a quest to save a god while the fate of all divinity hangs in the balance. Will they each find what they desperately seek, or will the secrets they keep from one another be their undoing? Can they master their fears to defeat an evil their world has never seen?

Is it the strength of the god that matters, or the belief of the Divine?]]> 632 Louise Holland 0645889601 Anie 5
I enjoyed this more than I could put into proper words. Sometimes, you find a book that just checks every box, and this one was very much it for me.

Characters - I would die for them (overall score: 10/10)
Mae is an obvious favorite, but every character, even the ones who had me screaming and throwing this book across the room, breathed life into this story. The dynamics between this found-family gripped me, and I am invested in their stories. (And Camden, my honorable mention of the review because he’s a catalyst, and I loved his character.) The villains � chef kiss. OH AND GRUNDLE. UM, I HAVE NOT FORGOTTEN MS HOLLAND.

Atmosphere � (overall score: 13/14)
Setting: I want to read more like this (9/10)
Holland mentioned she based this on a DnD campaign, and let me tell you, I NEED MORE OF IT, thanks.
Mood: I felt all the feels (4/4)
When I say I felt all the feels, trust me. I laughed, I cried, I was enraged, and I was surprised.

Writing Style � (overall score: 17/18)
Storytelling: Excellent storytelling (9/10)
Had me from page one. I think I highlighted more in this book than I have in a long while.
Grammar: No issues (4/4)
Formatting: No issues (4/4)


Plot � A pageturner (overall score: 10/10)
While I did try my best to savor this, I devoured it. The book has a few POVs and a few campaigns, and it’s a pretty epic ride, if I do say so myself.

Intrigue � (overall score: 13/14)
General: Couldn’t put it down (9/10)
This whole book is a pageturner, but during that last third of the book I was flipping pages so quickly, so much was happening that I was gripped.
Re-Readability: Dying to reread (4/4)
You bet I will be hosting a read-along!

Logic - (overall score: 13/14)
Plot Logic: I understand and want more (9/10)
Character Logic: Characters made sense (4/4)
If I give too much away in this section, it will be too spoiler-filled. As a general rule, I try to keep my reviews spoiler-free, but I will say I love these relationships. I was shocked by others, and one literally made me DM the author. I was so surprised.

Excitement � I’m in the exclusive fan club (10/10)
I bought all the editions, and I am the queen of the fan club. Expect my socials to blow up with quotes.

Scores:
CAWPILE: 86/90]]> 4.65 2023 Spark of the Divine (The Kalaraak Chronicles, #1)
author: Louise Holland
name: Anie
average rating: 4.65
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2024/03/26
date added: 2024/10/31
shelves:
review:
This review was originally posted on

I enjoyed this more than I could put into proper words. Sometimes, you find a book that just checks every box, and this one was very much it for me.

Characters - I would die for them (overall score: 10/10)
Mae is an obvious favorite, but every character, even the ones who had me screaming and throwing this book across the room, breathed life into this story. The dynamics between this found-family gripped me, and I am invested in their stories. (And Camden, my honorable mention of the review because he’s a catalyst, and I loved his character.) The villains � chef kiss. OH AND GRUNDLE. UM, I HAVE NOT FORGOTTEN MS HOLLAND.

Atmosphere � (overall score: 13/14)
Setting: I want to read more like this (9/10)
Holland mentioned she based this on a DnD campaign, and let me tell you, I NEED MORE OF IT, thanks.
Mood: I felt all the feels (4/4)
When I say I felt all the feels, trust me. I laughed, I cried, I was enraged, and I was surprised.

Writing Style � (overall score: 17/18)
Storytelling: Excellent storytelling (9/10)
Had me from page one. I think I highlighted more in this book than I have in a long while.
Grammar: No issues (4/4)
Formatting: No issues (4/4)


Plot � A pageturner (overall score: 10/10)
While I did try my best to savor this, I devoured it. The book has a few POVs and a few campaigns, and it’s a pretty epic ride, if I do say so myself.

Intrigue � (overall score: 13/14)
General: Couldn’t put it down (9/10)
This whole book is a pageturner, but during that last third of the book I was flipping pages so quickly, so much was happening that I was gripped.
Re-Readability: Dying to reread (4/4)
You bet I will be hosting a read-along!

Logic - (overall score: 13/14)
Plot Logic: I understand and want more (9/10)
Character Logic: Characters made sense (4/4)
If I give too much away in this section, it will be too spoiler-filled. As a general rule, I try to keep my reviews spoiler-free, but I will say I love these relationships. I was shocked by others, and one literally made me DM the author. I was so surprised.

Excitement � I’m in the exclusive fan club (10/10)
I bought all the editions, and I am the queen of the fan club. Expect my socials to blow up with quotes.

Scores:
CAWPILE: 86/90
]]> <![CDATA[By Blood, by Salt (Land of Exile, #1)]]> 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 Anie 4 arcs
“The words were spoken. Now it was up to the One who heard�

I was immediately taken by the world-building and eloquent prose of J.L. Odom in By Blood, By Salt, the first installment of the Land of Exile series. As a character-driven book, the multi points-of-view give the reader all the insight we need to weave a unique tapestry. As a fantasy, I will say it’s loosely such, and reads more like a historical/military fiction with fantastical/mythological elements.
Characters: 9/10
Writing Style: 17/18

Inspired by the Middle East, the military career of the author shines through in her writing. The desert landscape is rich with culture from the inhabitants that we meet along the way, all while working out the political games being played behind the scenes.
Atmosphere:13/14

The Maurowan army has been sent out to the desert on a mission to capture a Sahr devil, and the desert hands out more than anyone was bargaining for. Especially Azetla. As an outsider, Azetla relied on the acceptance of his fellows in order to survive, but when the commander who favors him is killed, Azetla’s safety is compromised. Is the key to salvation might just be in the desert and the devil he came for?
Intrigue: 13/14


Odom is a great story-teller, bringing this story to life on the pages. While it does have a slightly slower pace, the plot makes up for it.
Plot: 9/10
Logic: 13/14

Overall, I’m sad this one is over, and will be keeping an eye out for future installments in this series!

DEFINITELY RECOMMEND
Excitement: 8/10

Conclusion
CAWPILE Score: 78/90]]> 4.43 By Blood, by Salt (Land of Exile, #1)
author: J.L. Odom
name: Anie
average rating: 4.43
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/19
date added: 2024/10/30
shelves: arcs
review:
This review was originally posted on

“The words were spoken. Now it was up to the One who heard�

I was immediately taken by the world-building and eloquent prose of J.L. Odom in By Blood, By Salt, the first installment of the Land of Exile series. As a character-driven book, the multi points-of-view give the reader all the insight we need to weave a unique tapestry. As a fantasy, I will say it’s loosely such, and reads more like a historical/military fiction with fantastical/mythological elements.
Characters: 9/10
Writing Style: 17/18

Inspired by the Middle East, the military career of the author shines through in her writing. The desert landscape is rich with culture from the inhabitants that we meet along the way, all while working out the political games being played behind the scenes.
Atmosphere:13/14

The Maurowan army has been sent out to the desert on a mission to capture a Sahr devil, and the desert hands out more than anyone was bargaining for. Especially Azetla. As an outsider, Azetla relied on the acceptance of his fellows in order to survive, but when the commander who favors him is killed, Azetla’s safety is compromised. Is the key to salvation might just be in the desert and the devil he came for?
Intrigue: 13/14


Odom is a great story-teller, bringing this story to life on the pages. While it does have a slightly slower pace, the plot makes up for it.
Plot: 9/10
Logic: 13/14

Overall, I’m sad this one is over, and will be keeping an eye out for future installments in this series!

DEFINITELY RECOMMEND
Excitement: 8/10

Conclusion
CAWPILE Score: 78/90
]]> <![CDATA[Where Sirens Roam (The Twin Worlds Saga)]]> 219384381 Fear lies in the depths.
Daruhm just wants to be left alone, away from the broken world he inhabits.
However, as one of the last remaining scribes of his kind, he is tasked with joining the Iron Dragon for a voyage across the Great Sea, giving an account of their findings, alongside an ancient race that are now seen as mere slaves. But the waters are not what they seem. None who yet traverse them ever return. Vast storms and territory not known on any map await them, and an old myth come to life.
The Sirens will sing once again.]]> 140 Cameron Michaels Anie 4 This review was originally posted on

“This is about more than yourself, this is about expanding your reach, discovering things not yet seen by human eyes�

A brand new novella in the Twin World’s Saga, Where Sirens Roam follows Daruhm, a scribe and scholar, and Aydra, a Takahrn slave.

Daruhm might study the sea and the legendary sirens, but he certainly doesn’t play the part of pirate well. His sea legs are wobbly but his determination is held under a blazing fire, and he wants to find the sirens as badly as the Iron Dragon’s captain, Xerohnis. A reluctant hero he may be, Daruhm defies the odds and breaks some chains while he’s there.

Aydra is being held captive against her will on the Iron Dragon, one of three Takahrn beig used for their magical abilities. She bides her time, using her water weilding to help move the ship, but what she senses in the water might be what they came on this suicide mission to find. She’s headstrong and just as determined as Daruhm in her own quest to not only escape, but save her friend.
Characters: 8/10

I love a good seafaring adventure story, and Where Sirens Roam did not disappoint. Vivid descriptions of the boat, and even that queasy feeling of sea-sickness kept me enveloped in the world-building. Cameron does a great job of describing the overall atmosphere on the wide, dark sea, and *full disclosure* you can read this as a standalone from the first full-length novel of the Twin Worlds Saga, The Faded Dragon, but it helps to understand the depth of the magic system if you’ve read it.
Atmosphere: 13/14
Writing Style: 15/18

“You will join Captain Xerohnis and his crew aboard the Iron Dragon.�

Can you imagine, being a scribe and never having left land, and then hearing those words? My stomach would DROP. But Darhum kept his composure, and found himself sailing the sea before he could really process it all. But this is a discovery of a lifetime: Sirens.

On the other hand, Aydra is just trying to stay alive long enough to escape and save her friend. She is consistently abused by the first mate, Ivis, a scumlord if there ever was one. But she sense things only Daruhm has ever witness, and no one believed him when it happened. The two make a formidable pair.

I would say this story is pretty equally character and plot driven, being a shorter novella the pace flows well, and it’s easy to get invested in both.
Plot: 9/10
Intrigue:11/14
Logic: 13/14

Overall, this novella is well worth the read for those who have either already read The Faded Dragon or not. If you like unique magics, dragons, sirens, pirate adventures, and a hearty sea shanty: this one is for you. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND.
Excitement: 9/10

CAWPILE Score: 78/90]]> 4.22 Where Sirens Roam (The Twin Worlds Saga)
author: Cameron Michaels
name: Anie
average rating: 4.22
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/27
date added: 2024/10/30
shelves:
review:

This review was originally posted on

“This is about more than yourself, this is about expanding your reach, discovering things not yet seen by human eyes�

A brand new novella in the Twin World’s Saga, Where Sirens Roam follows Daruhm, a scribe and scholar, and Aydra, a Takahrn slave.

Daruhm might study the sea and the legendary sirens, but he certainly doesn’t play the part of pirate well. His sea legs are wobbly but his determination is held under a blazing fire, and he wants to find the sirens as badly as the Iron Dragon’s captain, Xerohnis. A reluctant hero he may be, Daruhm defies the odds and breaks some chains while he’s there.

Aydra is being held captive against her will on the Iron Dragon, one of three Takahrn beig used for their magical abilities. She bides her time, using her water weilding to help move the ship, but what she senses in the water might be what they came on this suicide mission to find. She’s headstrong and just as determined as Daruhm in her own quest to not only escape, but save her friend.
Characters: 8/10

I love a good seafaring adventure story, and Where Sirens Roam did not disappoint. Vivid descriptions of the boat, and even that queasy feeling of sea-sickness kept me enveloped in the world-building. Cameron does a great job of describing the overall atmosphere on the wide, dark sea, and *full disclosure* you can read this as a standalone from the first full-length novel of the Twin Worlds Saga, The Faded Dragon, but it helps to understand the depth of the magic system if you’ve read it.
Atmosphere: 13/14
Writing Style: 15/18

“You will join Captain Xerohnis and his crew aboard the Iron Dragon.�

Can you imagine, being a scribe and never having left land, and then hearing those words? My stomach would DROP. But Darhum kept his composure, and found himself sailing the sea before he could really process it all. But this is a discovery of a lifetime: Sirens.

On the other hand, Aydra is just trying to stay alive long enough to escape and save her friend. She is consistently abused by the first mate, Ivis, a scumlord if there ever was one. But she sense things only Daruhm has ever witness, and no one believed him when it happened. The two make a formidable pair.

I would say this story is pretty equally character and plot driven, being a shorter novella the pace flows well, and it’s easy to get invested in both.
Plot: 9/10
Intrigue:11/14
Logic: 13/14

Overall, this novella is well worth the read for those who have either already read The Faded Dragon or not. If you like unique magics, dragons, sirens, pirate adventures, and a hearty sea shanty: this one is for you. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND.
Excitement: 9/10

CAWPILE Score: 78/90
]]> <![CDATA[Blazing Flux (Flux Catastrophe #2)]]> 204736543
But the situation is getting desperate. Supplies are dwindling. Conscripts are deserting in droves to join the looters. Worst of all, the flux is behaving in ways that Ryza’s sure it shouldn’t.

The resurrected autominds of the battle’s dead won’t stop staring at him, familiar faces have been appearing in the surface of the molten flux itself, and it still hasn’t shown a hint of turning to blazing flux, the volatile gas that should occur when concentrated in more than a bucketful.

When Ryza discovers what’s truly controlling molten flux, he realises nothing’s as it’s meant to be.

Including himself.

Releasing on the 2nd of April, 2024, BLAZING FLUX is the second book of The Flux Catastrophe Series and sequel to Molten Flux. Drawing inspiration from both Mad Fury Road and HBO’s Chernobyl mini-series, readers of fantasy and science fiction alike will find thrilling action and brutal battles in a world of sandstorms and scrap metal.]]> 610 Jonathan Weiss 0645773050 Anie 4 This review was originally posted on

“To help us is to hurl themselves close to yet another death. I can’t imagine a more terrifying fate than certainty.�

Where once sat a reluctant hero now stands a man on the brink of an existential crisis of epic proportions. Everything in sight is in ruins and on the brink of flux setting itself ablaze while Ryza is doing everything he can to keep himself together. But the pieces of his former self were left in the explosion of Revance, and now, while he spends fruitless days clearing molten flux from the surface, he discovers something he never expected within himself. He’s questioning his own existence (Is he real? Is he not real? ‘If it looks like a duck and it quacks like a duck, is it really a duck� sort of questions) while all around him his reality sits on very shaky ground.

“I needed it...I needed someone to just tell me something so I would know what to be.�

Flux is central to this whole story: what is it, how does it act, and why does it act the ways it does? And it’s in this sequel that the flux comes to life on the pages as more than just a silver, volatile liquid pulsing across the world and corrupting people. I do however wish the runics were explored a *touch* more, because the lore around them is interesting.

“What happens when a Reythurist dies away from the sky?�
A slower start explodes into action and intrigue as these characters discover what it truly means to be alive.

B𲹰Ƿɲ

Characters (9/10)
As a sequel this really builds on the relationships from the previous book. I actually like Holm this time around. She’s still a bit of a wildcard, and proves to be a handful (pun intended) later on but she really helped shape Ryza’s character a bit more. I also liked the villains yet again. They are conniving and propel the story.

Atmosphere (13/14)
* Setting (9/10)
While the characters don’t go too far away from Iroka, they do go deep. A very dusty, dystopian science fiction was brought more to life under the surface.
* Mood (4/4)
Scenes between Ryza and Holm tugged at me the most. As someone who only started liking Holm in the sequel, I could really understand her this time. On the other hand, the action scenes were short, but impactful and made for a great read!

Writing Style (16/18)
* Storytelling (8/10)
Jonathan has an ease at which he weaves his stories that make them enjoyable, and overall it flowed at a nice pace.
* Grammar (4/4)
* Format (4/4)

Plot (9/10)
I will admit that when I first began this sequel I was worried it was going to be a bit slower, but I am happily proven wrong. The pace is in the middle range leaning closer to fast with how the plot progressed. What at first seems like “not a lot going on� since the characters stay pretty centrally located albeit on and under the surface, ends up being an exploration of the self, the impressions we make on others, and how that image can shape our perception.

Intrigue (11/14)
* Overall (8/10)
This book took me out of a five month reading slump and I absolutely want to read more in this series! It simply has that “middle of a series� feel, where the reader is given more information but the story is still reaching for that overall climax.
* Readability (3/4)

Logic (13/14)
* Plot Logic (9/10)
Ryza navigating his existence in a dying world made for a great subplot, but the overarching story of what molten flux is and learning how it works (while reminiscent of a fever dream) fits the tone.
* Character Logic (4/4)
While I still don’t see what Ryza sees in Holm, their relationship wasn’t actually the one that gave me pause. I was pleasantly surprised by Ditric, and the way she grounded Ryza when he needed it most.

Excitement (10/10)
Is there a fan club? Because I could head it! Overall I’m hyped about this book and this series as a whole and I cannot wait to see what comes next. Weiss has a way of ending his books on a huge bang and now I’m practically flinging myself off a cliff to find out what happens.
DEFINITELY RECOMMEND.

Final Scores
CAWPILE Rating: 81/90]]> 4.44 Blazing Flux (Flux Catastrophe #2)
author: Jonathan Weiss
name: Anie
average rating: 4.44
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/15
date added: 2024/10/30
shelves:
review:

This review was originally posted on

“To help us is to hurl themselves close to yet another death. I can’t imagine a more terrifying fate than certainty.�

Where once sat a reluctant hero now stands a man on the brink of an existential crisis of epic proportions. Everything in sight is in ruins and on the brink of flux setting itself ablaze while Ryza is doing everything he can to keep himself together. But the pieces of his former self were left in the explosion of Revance, and now, while he spends fruitless days clearing molten flux from the surface, he discovers something he never expected within himself. He’s questioning his own existence (Is he real? Is he not real? ‘If it looks like a duck and it quacks like a duck, is it really a duck� sort of questions) while all around him his reality sits on very shaky ground.

“I needed it...I needed someone to just tell me something so I would know what to be.�

Flux is central to this whole story: what is it, how does it act, and why does it act the ways it does? And it’s in this sequel that the flux comes to life on the pages as more than just a silver, volatile liquid pulsing across the world and corrupting people. I do however wish the runics were explored a *touch* more, because the lore around them is interesting.

“What happens when a Reythurist dies away from the sky?�
A slower start explodes into action and intrigue as these characters discover what it truly means to be alive.

B𲹰Ƿɲ

Characters (9/10)
As a sequel this really builds on the relationships from the previous book. I actually like Holm this time around. She’s still a bit of a wildcard, and proves to be a handful (pun intended) later on but she really helped shape Ryza’s character a bit more. I also liked the villains yet again. They are conniving and propel the story.

Atmosphere (13/14)
* Setting (9/10)
While the characters don’t go too far away from Iroka, they do go deep. A very dusty, dystopian science fiction was brought more to life under the surface.
* Mood (4/4)
Scenes between Ryza and Holm tugged at me the most. As someone who only started liking Holm in the sequel, I could really understand her this time. On the other hand, the action scenes were short, but impactful and made for a great read!

Writing Style (16/18)
* Storytelling (8/10)
Jonathan has an ease at which he weaves his stories that make them enjoyable, and overall it flowed at a nice pace.
* Grammar (4/4)
* Format (4/4)

Plot (9/10)
I will admit that when I first began this sequel I was worried it was going to be a bit slower, but I am happily proven wrong. The pace is in the middle range leaning closer to fast with how the plot progressed. What at first seems like “not a lot going on� since the characters stay pretty centrally located albeit on and under the surface, ends up being an exploration of the self, the impressions we make on others, and how that image can shape our perception.

Intrigue (11/14)
* Overall (8/10)
This book took me out of a five month reading slump and I absolutely want to read more in this series! It simply has that “middle of a series� feel, where the reader is given more information but the story is still reaching for that overall climax.
* Readability (3/4)

Logic (13/14)
* Plot Logic (9/10)
Ryza navigating his existence in a dying world made for a great subplot, but the overarching story of what molten flux is and learning how it works (while reminiscent of a fever dream) fits the tone.
* Character Logic (4/4)
While I still don’t see what Ryza sees in Holm, their relationship wasn’t actually the one that gave me pause. I was pleasantly surprised by Ditric, and the way she grounded Ryza when he needed it most.

Excitement (10/10)
Is there a fan club? Because I could head it! Overall I’m hyped about this book and this series as a whole and I cannot wait to see what comes next. Weiss has a way of ending his books on a huge bang and now I’m practically flinging myself off a cliff to find out what happens.
DEFINITELY RECOMMEND.

Final Scores
CAWPILE Rating: 81/90
]]> <![CDATA[An Exile of Water & Gold (The Song of the Sleepers, #1)]]> 204179769
Drift, a young and cynical Aobian, has been exiled from his homeland � forever. Now, with no understanding of this condemnation, Drift must traverse the land of humans below, and find his purpose in an ever-changing world. Tarri, his betrothed, seeks to do the same, whilst also bringing him home.

Elsewhere on Q’ara, an unknown organisation seeks to weaponise Luminosity for their own nefarious purposes. Drift himself is a part of this puzzle, and it quickly becomes apparent that the struggle for true power in Q’ara is emerging for reasons greater than anyone is prepared to grasp.]]> 602 Joshua Walker 0648642739 Anie 5 indie-authors
Two exiles; two destinies lie that along the same fragile thread of light. One a wayward spirit forced to leave. The other forging a path against the odds.
“But this part of the world wasn’t meant for us, Drift.�

THE THINGS I LIKED
I was immediately enraptured with the easy way Walker introduces us to each character � of which there are five points-of-view, and all a mix of what his constructed universe has to offer.

Being split up into two parts, the first focuses mostly on Drift, the first exile. And the second half revolves more around Esme, the second exile, who gets far less than she bargains for in the end. I’m heavily invested in both of their outcomes.
Characters: 9/10
“And if you were to believe the legend that became of the story, you would also expect the ending to be different depending on who told it.�
Throughout the book, Walker weaves a wonderful, glowing landscape, and I can’t help but want more from this series. The lore alone is so fascinating I could read a mythology on it (can we make that happen, Mr. Walker?) and the way the characters are so connected to their environment creates the perfect atmosphere for this high fantasy.
Atmosphere: 13/14
Writing Style: 16/18
“I wish you luck, Tarri. The kind that does not expire.�
I had a lot of speculations as I read this. I aim to keep this review spoiler-free, but the reason for Drift’s exile and his adventure into the human lands thereafter kept me on the edge of my seat. There’s rogues. There’s deception. There is culture shocks abound.
The way Tarri relentlessly pursues the truth about the event and uncovers the secrets kept by the Sleepers inspires hope that they will be reunited. She’s so tenacious, and if anyone is going to dismantle the utopia that is Aobia, it’s going to be her.
On the completely other side is Esme, who is foreign her own path to find out the truth about her father. I loved her chapters and am eager to see what ends up happening to her in the next installment. Another very tenacious woman in this universe. She has VASTLY under-estimated some people, but I have a feeling she will find an ally in a certain ambassador.
Plot: 9/10
Intrigue: 11/14
Logic: 12/14
“The only stars in Tarri’s sky, extinguished in minutes.�
Overall, I did very much enjoy this story!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Excitement: 9/10

SOMETHING ON MY MIND�.
Flow was on the top of my list of “must watch� characters and someone I was very eager to see show up on the page. He was set up with a lot of potential for subterfuge and his character was building, but at some point he pivoted and fell a bit flat. In fact the arc between Flow and Sedulus overall felt cut short when I thought it would take on a larger storyline in conjunction with Tarri/Nischia. It’s one of the few things that I marked against the story.

CDzԳܲDz
CAWPILE Score: 78/90]]> 4.41 An Exile of Water & Gold (The Song of the Sleepers, #1)
author: Joshua Walker
name: Anie
average rating: 4.41
book published:
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/20
date added: 2024/10/30
shelves: indie-authors
review:
This review was originally posted on

Two exiles; two destinies lie that along the same fragile thread of light. One a wayward spirit forced to leave. The other forging a path against the odds.
“But this part of the world wasn’t meant for us, Drift.�

THE THINGS I LIKED
I was immediately enraptured with the easy way Walker introduces us to each character � of which there are five points-of-view, and all a mix of what his constructed universe has to offer.

Being split up into two parts, the first focuses mostly on Drift, the first exile. And the second half revolves more around Esme, the second exile, who gets far less than she bargains for in the end. I’m heavily invested in both of their outcomes.
Characters: 9/10
“And if you were to believe the legend that became of the story, you would also expect the ending to be different depending on who told it.�
Throughout the book, Walker weaves a wonderful, glowing landscape, and I can’t help but want more from this series. The lore alone is so fascinating I could read a mythology on it (can we make that happen, Mr. Walker?) and the way the characters are so connected to their environment creates the perfect atmosphere for this high fantasy.
Atmosphere: 13/14
Writing Style: 16/18
“I wish you luck, Tarri. The kind that does not expire.�
I had a lot of speculations as I read this. I aim to keep this review spoiler-free, but the reason for Drift’s exile and his adventure into the human lands thereafter kept me on the edge of my seat. There’s rogues. There’s deception. There is culture shocks abound.
The way Tarri relentlessly pursues the truth about the event and uncovers the secrets kept by the Sleepers inspires hope that they will be reunited. She’s so tenacious, and if anyone is going to dismantle the utopia that is Aobia, it’s going to be her.
On the completely other side is Esme, who is foreign her own path to find out the truth about her father. I loved her chapters and am eager to see what ends up happening to her in the next installment. Another very tenacious woman in this universe. She has VASTLY under-estimated some people, but I have a feeling she will find an ally in a certain ambassador.
Plot: 9/10
Intrigue: 11/14
Logic: 12/14
“The only stars in Tarri’s sky, extinguished in minutes.�
Overall, I did very much enjoy this story!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Excitement: 9/10

SOMETHING ON MY MIND�.
Flow was on the top of my list of “must watch� characters and someone I was very eager to see show up on the page. He was set up with a lot of potential for subterfuge and his character was building, but at some point he pivoted and fell a bit flat. In fact the arc between Flow and Sedulus overall felt cut short when I thought it would take on a larger storyline in conjunction with Tarri/Nischia. It’s one of the few things that I marked against the story.

CDzԳܲDz
CAWPILE Score: 78/90
]]> Belladonna (Belladonna, #1) 59227936
Orphaned as a baby, nineteen-year-old Signa has been raised by a string of guardians, each one more interested in her wealth than her well-being—and each has met an untimely end. Her remaining relatives are the elusive Hawthornes, an eccentric family living at Thorn Grove, an estate both glittering and gloomy. Its patriarch mourns his late wife through wild parties, while his son grapples for control of the family’s waning reputation, and his daughter suffers from a mysterious illness. But when their mother’s restless spirit appears claiming she was poisoned, Signa realizes that the family she depends on could be in grave danger and enlists the help of a surly stable boy to hunt down the killer.

However, Signa’s best chance of uncovering the murderer is an alliance with Death himself, a fascinating, dangerous shadow who has never been far from her side. Though he’s made her life a living hell, Death shows Signa that their growing connection may be more powerful—and more irresistible—than she ever dared imagine.]]> 409 Adalyn Grace 0316158232 Anie 4 3.97 2022 Belladonna (Belladonna, #1)
author: Adalyn Grace
name: Anie
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2022
rating: 4
read at: 2024/10/30
date added: 2024/10/30
shelves:
review:

]]> Realms of Wrath and Ruin 143189596 All that's left of Hallie Walker after the Eudora Jayde mission are nightmares and an ancestry tangled with dark secrets. When her parents send an urgent telegram to return home, she knows it's time to face the past she's determined to forget. In doing so, she unwittingly stumbles into a scheme as old as the planet itself. If only she can convince a certain cocky pilot to fly her home...
Reeling from the death of his brother, Kase Shackley focuses on anything but reality itself. But when his past sins spill into the light of day, Kase does what he does best-run. If only he knew how to tell a certain bubbly scholar goodbye...
The world of Yalvara sits on a precipice, peering into the murky depths below. The kingdom of Cerulene has been too quiet since attacking the nation of Jayde, and a dangerous extremist group lurks in the shadows. When the ancient Yalvs arrive in Jayde's capital with stories of a dragon and its rider destroying their holy city, Hallie and Kase know the horizon of war has finally come. The question is, who will be standing when the smoke clears?
Realms of Wrath & Ruin is the second heart-wrenching, character-driven steampunk novel in the Gate Chronicles series featuring a slow burn romance, perfect for fans of the magic system in Attack on Titan, the world of Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross, and the romance of Fox's 1997 film Anastasia.]]> Alli Earnest Anie 0 to-read, will-get-back-to 4.17 Realms of Wrath and Ruin
author: Alli Earnest
name: Anie
average rating: 4.17
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/30
shelves: to-read, will-get-back-to
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Ruined King (The Wingless King Book 2)]]> 220953191 The Veil is spreading, and with it, corruption deepens. Now, harboring the resurfaced memories of his forgotten past, Seren realizes the role he must play as the fate of the realm hangs in the balance. With the soul of a reincarnated goddess inside him, Seren must return home and accept his destiny-the one to perform the Cleansing.

Upon his long-awaited return to his homeland, Seren is immediately thrust into his role by Aiden, with no time to process the years that have kept them apart.

Alongside his allies, Seren sets out to fulfill the prophecies by gathering the trinity of holy items-the harp, the sword, and the crown.

The whereabouts of only the harp are known, hidden deep within the fallen kingdom of Andanova. Seren embarks on this perilous quest with his companions, including Jude, whose past is intricately tied to Andanova's dark history. As new and unexpected truths begin to emerge, Seren is faced with more secrets and lies than he ever anticipated.

How many more revelations will Seren uncover before the full truth is revealed? And what if some truths are better left buried in the dark?]]> K.C Wassem Anie 0 to-read 5.00 The Ruined King (The Wingless King Book 2)
author: K.C Wassem
name: Anie
average rating: 5.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/10/29
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Umbra (Sentient Stars, #1) 206755811 Umbra is the first book in the Sentient Stars trilogy, an intergalactic, space opera, adventure story, with a slow burn enemies to lovers romance, told from 3 POV’s with fully sentient starships, a militaristic society, alien worlds, and a signal in the darkness that threatens to destroy humanity.

Earth That Was has faded into myth. After millenia spent wandering, humans are no longer nomads. Twelve tribes stand allied under the United Tribal Axis; but there is a signal in the darkness that threatens to destroy everything.

All Skyla wanted after leaving the Navy was to be left alone. Just her ship, the stars, and a new adventure. But when a strange virus disables her ship, she is thrown into the middle of a conflict she doesn’t understand, forcing her to take on responsibilities she swore she never would again.

Hinata always followed the rules, honor above all else. He always won, until he didn’t. Sentenced to exile for his failures, he is determined to prove himself, until a mysterious woman arrives on his station and chaos threatens to break already fragile alliances.

Freyja was always angry, an outcast, playing the part of admiral and black ops operative. But she is tired of being a pawn in the Empress� games and when she’s stranded on the wrong side of enemy lines after a vengeful battle, she’s forced to ally with her adversaries to clear her name.

A Rogue.
A Commander.
And an Admiral.

Brought together by circumstance, held together by duty.
Can they find a way to work together to save humanity?]]> 381 Amber Toro Anie 4 -review to come- 4.32 Umbra (Sentient Stars, #1)
author: Amber Toro
name: Anie
average rating: 4.32
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/09/28
date added: 2024/09/28
shelves:
review:
-review to come-
]]> <![CDATA[Earthbound (Of Earth and Sky, #1)]]> 213700003
In a land where the Earth spawns terrible beasts capable of moving through all but stone, the Sky bestows power to those bound by Oaths.

As earthbound creatures invade, bringing with them chaos and whispers of a coming war, protector and Overseer Tehran fights to keep his people safe. After losing his best friend to the beasts and with the stability of the region deteriorating, Tehran heads to the Capital to plead for support from the Order of the Sky.

When his friend’s widow stows aboard the transport, determined to hold the Order accountable for the death of her husband, Tehran’s plans are derailed. Torn between upholding his responsibility as an Overseer or honouring his friend’s memory, Tehran must either choose the Oaths that have forged him or trust new bonds to guard the fate of the Mercurial.]]> 450 Katee Stein 1068849509 Anie 5 audiobook
With THREE points-of-view, we are not lacking for perspectives, even with a slightly unreliable one. Knox is headstrong but always in a bit of a bind. His bonded, Amelia, is on a challenging path, and while I do empathize with her situation (she’s only doing what she can with the information she has) her actions still made me want to throw my proverbial book across the room. Then there’s Tehran � the backstabbing, no-good, TAKER OF ADVANTAGES—�-

I digress.
If you can’t tell, these characters are easy to become invested in.

Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10

The setting is unique and again, the mix of fantasy and sci fi are blended to create a world with beasts made from legend and tech of a farther future. The namesake of this book, the Earthbound, are fascinating and scary, Knox having a few run ins that are less than desirable. They immediately sucked me into the story thanks to Carlssen’s bard-like narration.

Atmosphere/Mood: 13/14
Writing Style: 17/18

Intrigue and Excitement are an understatement. Had I read this in physical form I would have been flipping pages furiously! Instead I savored it (so glad I did) on audio, and have not stopped talking about it since! There isn’t a person I haven’t mentioned this book to.

Intrigue: 14/14
Excitement: 10/10

Ok. Now we get to the hard parts of this review which takes up the L in CAWPILE � Logic. The story makes sense of course. The way it ended leaves me wanting more. However! If you’ve heard me yap about this, then you know that I’m about to contradict myself, because while he’s in a surface level I do empathize with Amelia but that doesn’t make her actions LOGICAL. Is she under the spell of an oath. Quite possible. The whole book is about the power of oaths and the power behind our words. And, like myself, Amelia sometimes doesn’t think before she speaks, and doesn’t always listen to the voice inside her head ringing alarm bells. I don’t fault the author for weaving this into the story because it adds to the intrigue but if I was Amelia’s friend I would be having some sage words for her. Too bad all she has is Tehran�

Logic: 13/14


Overall if you are slumping from after Sanderson, this reminiscing-feel fantasy is just for you! And I highly recommend the audiobook for those who are into that sort of thing.

CAWPILE SCORE: 87/90 (my highest yet�)
DP2 SCORE (for audiobooks): 12/12
STAR RATING: 5]]> 4.57 2024 Earthbound (Of Earth and Sky, #1)
author: Katee Stein
name: Anie
average rating: 4.57
book published: 2024
rating: 5
read at: 2024/09/24
date added: 2024/09/27
shelves: audiobook
review:
Earthbound is a fantastic new fantasy from author Katee Stein! I’ve been seeing this book all over, and right when I finally purchased a physical copy, I was gifted with the audiobook. I’m so glad I listened to this first, before reading it in my own voice. Magnus Carlssen brought it to life!

With THREE points-of-view, we are not lacking for perspectives, even with a slightly unreliable one. Knox is headstrong but always in a bit of a bind. His bonded, Amelia, is on a challenging path, and while I do empathize with her situation (she’s only doing what she can with the information she has) her actions still made me want to throw my proverbial book across the room. Then there’s Tehran � the backstabbing, no-good, TAKER OF ADVANTAGES—�-

I digress.
If you can’t tell, these characters are easy to become invested in.

Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10

The setting is unique and again, the mix of fantasy and sci fi are blended to create a world with beasts made from legend and tech of a farther future. The namesake of this book, the Earthbound, are fascinating and scary, Knox having a few run ins that are less than desirable. They immediately sucked me into the story thanks to Carlssen’s bard-like narration.

Atmosphere/Mood: 13/14
Writing Style: 17/18

Intrigue and Excitement are an understatement. Had I read this in physical form I would have been flipping pages furiously! Instead I savored it (so glad I did) on audio, and have not stopped talking about it since! There isn’t a person I haven’t mentioned this book to.

Intrigue: 14/14
Excitement: 10/10

Ok. Now we get to the hard parts of this review which takes up the L in CAWPILE � Logic. The story makes sense of course. The way it ended leaves me wanting more. However! If you’ve heard me yap about this, then you know that I’m about to contradict myself, because while he’s in a surface level I do empathize with Amelia but that doesn’t make her actions LOGICAL. Is she under the spell of an oath. Quite possible. The whole book is about the power of oaths and the power behind our words. And, like myself, Amelia sometimes doesn’t think before she speaks, and doesn’t always listen to the voice inside her head ringing alarm bells. I don’t fault the author for weaving this into the story because it adds to the intrigue but if I was Amelia’s friend I would be having some sage words for her. Too bad all she has is Tehran�

Logic: 13/14


Overall if you are slumping from after Sanderson, this reminiscing-feel fantasy is just for you! And I highly recommend the audiobook for those who are into that sort of thing.

CAWPILE SCORE: 87/90 (my highest yet�)
DP2 SCORE (for audiobooks): 12/12
STAR RATING: 5
]]> <![CDATA[Magical Girl Blues (The Clandestine #2)]]> 219359012 Some things are worse than death� or high school.

Fourteen-year-old Xenia Findlay survived the crash that claimed her parents and her best friend Bethany. Moving to Porter Valley to live with her great aunt should have been the perfect opportunity to heal. Instead of the peace and quiet she so desperately needs, she’s plagued by terrible headaches� and hallucinatory visits from her dead friend.

Worse, the students of Porter Valley High are disappearing. As, one by one, the missing students join Bethany in Xenia’s visions she begins to suspect that what she sees is real. If that’s true, then everything she thought she knew—about the world, about death, and about herself—is wrong. Magic is real. Ghosts exist. And a monster lurks in the shadows of her idyllic new home.

The bodies are piling up and it won’t be long before the ghastly force preying upon Porter Valley turns its eyes upon her. If Xenia can unlock the power she’s discovered, she might just save herself, her town� and her very soul.

A thrilling new Urban Fantasy sure to please fans of Seanan McGuire, Faith Hunter and Jim Butcher.

Magical Girl Blues is Book 2 in The Clandestine Series.]]> 436 Russell Isler 1961479028 Anie 0 to-read 4.00 Magical Girl Blues (The Clandestine #2)
author: Russell Isler
name: Anie
average rating: 4.00
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[All In (The Clandestine Book 1)]]> 156774155 What dies in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

Vampire playboy Eddy Fry has spent years living it up, so to speak, in Las Vegas. In all those decades, not once has he met another of his kind.

Until tonight.

Eddy learns that, not only are there other vampires out there, the one after him is older and much more powerful than he is. As if that wasn't bad enough, she’s got a small army of supernatural creatures at her beck and call. In a flash, she’s muscled him out of the casino he calls home and left him with an offer he can’t refuse.

Out-gunned and out of his depth, Eddy will need to find his own allies, allies who know their way around this whacked-out supernatural world he’s been ignoring for so long. Otherwise, he might just see his first sunrise in years…]]> 396 Russell Isler 196147901X Anie 0 to-read 4.74 All In (The Clandestine Book 1)
author: Russell Isler
name: Anie
average rating: 4.74
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/23
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Performances of a Death Metal Bard: A Brutal Novella]]> 218312967
My coin only seems to be enough to get me to the next run-down village, and it’s dwindling fast.

To make matters worse, my newest lute is not normal. It never stays in tune, it’s barely holding together, and it keeps whispering to me. Over and over, demands for vengeance and murder echo in my head, with the promise that I’ll find the sound I need if I just listen to the voices.

So what’s a starving bard to do?

Performances of a Death Metal Bard is a brutal fantasy adventure inspired by The Witcher and Metalocalypse, merging the episodic travels of a musical elf with the darkness, blood, and raw riffs of the heaviest metal the kingdom has ever seen.]]> 146 Rob Leigh Anie 0 to-read 4.41 Performances of a Death Metal Bard: A Brutal Novella
author: Rob Leigh
name: Anie
average rating: 4.41
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Princess of Oldir (Power of the Stars, #2.5)]]> 214623112
Rhanna, the daughter of the current Lord Supreme, considers it her duty to rid the planet of its troubles. She spends most of her days training to take up her family’s mantle. But when a popular young leader from a neighboring world arrives on their soil, it becomes evident that there are those with other wishes.

Set more than three decades before the events of The Forsaken Planet, this is a story of one family’s struggle to do what is right, even if it costs them their legacy.

A Princess of Oldir is both a standalone story in the Power of the Stars universe and a complementary addition for those familiar with the main books. You do not need to have read the other work to enjoy this novella.]]> 93 Bryan Wilson Anie 0 to-read 4.50 A Princess of Oldir (Power of the Stars, #2.5)
author: Bryan Wilson
name: Anie
average rating: 4.50
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Memory Of Song: First Verse Of The Last Ballad (The Last Ballad, #1)]]> 206149628 In a dying land, the armies of the dead hold sway. And those who rule them are more god than human.

James Culdaine, the last heir of the Northern Throne, was just a young man when the armies of the South murdered his parents and subjugated his lands. He has never forgotten those responsible, nor has he forgiven. He has spent the last ten years living in isolation with The Feldarra; a sacred Northern clan of fierce warriors, led by the fearless Wulfee who, still reeling from the loss of her own children, finds new meaning in protecting what only family she has left.

Now, an ancient order of warlocks has returned to the North, singing dark songs composed of blood magic that null the elements and threaten all that is living.

With nature depleted and the Southern armies returning to the North, James struggles to embrace the unique power he has long tried to repress; the ability to commune with the spirits of the dead. In the bitter heart of a growing war, with the world dying around them, James and Wulfee desperately seek answers, vengeance, and a way to save the ones they love... No matter the cost.

Fires refuse to burn. The skies are thirsty and breathless. The earth won't eat its rot...
Welcome to Ardura.

Braveheart and A Song of Ice and Fire meet Stephen King in Palmer's triumphant first installment to the Last Ballad Series. Don't miss the start of The Last Ballad. Grab your copy now!]]> Scott Palmer Anie 0 to-read 4.12 A Memory Of Song: First Verse Of The Last Ballad (The Last Ballad, #1)
author: Scott Palmer
name: Anie
average rating: 4.12
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Stone & Sky (Stone & Sky, #1) 182100150 From across the sea, a shadow rises. A lone survivor may be the kingdom’s only hope against annihilation.

Orin is a sworn protector. As a stalwart member of the Griffin Guard, he’s proud to protect the kingdom against a dreaded nation of orcs. But when the fires of war burn bright from the north, his entire squadron falls to deadly wyvern riders, leaving the devastated Orin bloody and alone.

With his squad dead, Orin has his mind set on saving others from the same fate.

Teaming up with a local huntsman’s family, Orin and his new friends must push themselves past their limits to face mysterious dangers and ancient magics. Shocked to discover the orcs� secret weapon, the lone guardian’s last chance to save his home could require the ultimate sacrifice.

Come fly away on griffin-back!

Fly off to the world of Finlestia in this epic fantasy story for readers looking for adventure, magic, and just plain fun; a tale where friendships must overcome insurmountable odds and remind readers to never lose hope.

Buy Stone & Sky to join the battle today!]]> 466 Z.S. Diamanti 1961580012 Anie 0 to-read 4.14 2023 Stone & Sky (Stone & Sky, #1)
author: Z.S. Diamanti
name: Anie
average rating: 4.14
book published: 2023
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Silence is Silver (Shadowbinders, #0.5)]]> 212592339
Beneath the desert sands, Bas has spent his entire life training to become a fully-fledged Urdahl. And now his time has come to prove his worth. First, he must drink from the Seeing Bowl to clear his clouded mind and witness visions bestowed to him by ancient deities. Next, he must prove strength of body with the Passage of the High Pass. But destiny is shrouded in red and strength of arm will not be enough to survive its true tests.

Will he ascend to a full Urdahl or will his visions of blood come to pass?

The turning season has begun.

Taking place before the events of the Shadowbinders trilogy, “Silence is Silver� is a novella for both old and new readers.]]> 53 Andrew Watson 1739340027 Anie 0 to-read 4.35 Silence is Silver (Shadowbinders, #0.5)
author: Andrew Watson
name: Anie
average rating: 4.35
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Hytharo Redux (The First Hytharo #1)]]> 197389175
A THOUSAND YEARS LATER SPIRIC WAS SPARED.

Lost among the dune-swept ruins of ancient glass towers, 14-year-old Spiric hunts for his stolen memories. Guided by the exiled scholar that found him, he embarks on a perilous journey across the Droughtlands to uncover his origins.

He’s told his red eyes mark him as a Hytharo, one of the long-extinct storm callers that sealed all water into the air itself before they were erased from history. In the thousand years since, thirst has been quenched simply by breathing, but that hasn’t stopped the surviving runic peoples from wanting water any less.

For without it, there’s no ink, no runes, no magic, and in the vast desert wastes of the Droughtlands, magic means power.

To Spiric, the mantra is eerily familiar.

Word of his presence ripples across the Droughtlands and pressure mounts on him to reverse the Hytharo’s final, sacrificial act. It’s only as his memories begin to return that he realises the true reason his people were wiped out.

With the fragments of Spiric’s memories growing bloodier and more desperate, he must determine whether carrying out his supposed fate will cause history to repeat, or if he can forge a new destiny, both for himself and the Droughtlands.]]> 479 Jonathan Weiss 0645773042 Anie 0 to-read 4.15 The Hytharo Redux (The First Hytharo #1)
author: Jonathan Weiss
name: Anie
average rating: 4.15
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Dragon Legion (Sunborn, #1)]]> 211662127 Broken generations ago in the Cleansing,The Sunborn Bloodline persists.

Dragh the Sunborn Empire’s last son rises in the ranks of the Second Legion, a Legion of criminals. Sent to quell the rebelling Northern Tribes, the last Sunborn son finds himself in a cruel world of politics, murder and betrayal as he struggles to survive.

Welcome to the Sunborn Series, where Empires rise, fall and against all odds, rise again.

The Dragon Legion is born.]]> 365 Isaac Hill 173829840X Anie 0 to-read 4.04 The Dragon Legion (Sunborn, #1)
author: Isaac Hill
name: Anie
average rating: 4.04
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Mushroom Blues (The Hofmann Report, #1)]]> 205981469 ENTER THE FUNGALVERSE. Blade Runner, True Detective, and District 9 meld with the weird worlds of Jeff VanderMeer, Philip K. Dick, and China Miéville in Adrian M. Gibson’s award-winning fungalpunk noir debut, now with a foreword from acclaimed author Nicholas Eames and six pieces of original interior artwork in this ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY EDITION.


Two years after a devastating defeat in the decade-long Spore War, the island nation of Hōppon and its capital city of Neo Kinoko are occupied by invading Coprinian forces. Its fungal citizens are in dire straits, wracked by food shortages, poverty, and an influx of war refugees. Even worse, the corrupt occupiers exploit their power, hounding the native population.


As a winter storm looms over the metropolis, NKPD homicide detective Henrietta Hofmann begrudgingly partners up with mushroom-headed patrol officer Koji Nameko to investigate the mysterious murders of fungal and half-breed children. Their investigation drags them deep into the seedy underbelly of a war-torn city, one brimming with colonizers, criminal gangs, racial division, and moral decay.


In order to solve the case and unravel the truth, Hofmann must challenge her past and embrace fungal ways. What she and Nameko uncover in the midst of this frigid wasteland will chill them to the core, but will they make it through the storm alive?

]]> 410 Adrian M. Gibson Anie 0 to-read 3.95 2024 Mushroom Blues (The Hofmann Report, #1)
author: Adrian M. Gibson
name: Anie
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/21
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> Uglies (Uglies, #1) 24770
But Tally's new friend Shay isn't sure she wants to become a pretty. When Shay runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world—and it isn't very pretty. The authorities offer Tally a choice: find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all. Tally's choice will change her world forever....]]> 425 Scott Westerfeld 0689865384 Anie 0 to-read 3.85 2005 Uglies (Uglies, #1)
author: Scott Westerfeld
name: Anie
average rating: 3.85
book published: 2005
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/16
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dance of Thieves (Dance of Thieves, #1)]]> 35796008
At the same time, Kazi, a legendary former street thief, is sent by the queen to investigate transgressions against the new settlements. When Kazi arrives in the forbidding land of the Ballengers, she learns that there is more to Jase than she thought. As unexpected events spiral out of their control, bringing them intimately together, they continue to play a cat and mouse game of false moves and motives in order to fulfill their own secret missions.

Mary E. Pearson's Dance of Thieves is a new YA novel in the New York Times bestselling Remnant Chronicles universe, in which a reformed thief and the young leader of an outlaw dynasty lock wits in a battle that may cost them their lives—and their hearts. ]]> 512 Mary E. Pearson 1250159016 Anie 0 will-get-back-to, to-read 4.11 2018 Dance of Thieves (Dance of Thieves, #1)
author: Mary E. Pearson
name: Anie
average rating: 4.11
book published: 2018
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/09/15
shelves: will-get-back-to, to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dark Town, A Fantasy LitRPG Adventure: Level One of the Dragon's Crawl]]> 209634404
Hidden underneath the small town of Haverly Arms lies an entrance to the Dragon’s Game, an extensive world where adventurers compete to collect power objects and progress to the next level.

Temerity’s father and brothers have been down in the game for years, leaving Temerity and her mother, plus their house goblin, Half-pint, to manage their tavern. Bored with small-town life, Temerity decides to enter the tunnel labyrinth, launching an adventure to survive Level One of the Dragon’s Game: Dark Town.]]> 410 Palmer Pickering 1960530003 Anie 4 litrpg RTC! 4.03 Dark Town, A Fantasy LitRPG Adventure: Level One of the Dragon's Crawl
author: Palmer Pickering
name: Anie
average rating: 4.03
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2024/08/30
date added: 2024/08/30
shelves: litrpg
review:
RTC!
]]> <![CDATA[The Tournament of Heirs (The Mexica Chronicles, #1)]]> 216901052 Bloodshed is coming

It's simple.

Six Houses

Twelve Heirs

Only Two Blood Bound tributes can win and bring home victory.

Acalan has a duty to the empire he will inherit, and his sister Metztli has to make sure she keeps Acalan alive long enough to see his rule come to fruition. Together, both siblings must compete in the Tournament and win, but nothing in the empire is quite as it seems, and destiny has plans of its own.

Only one thing is certain for the two heirs of the House of Life.

Sacrifices must be made.]]> 532 Amilea Perez Anie 0 to-read 3.85 The Tournament of Heirs (The Mexica Chronicles, #1)
author: Amilea Perez
name: Anie
average rating: 3.85
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/27
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Yellow Wallpaper and Other Stories]]> 99300
Written from a feminist perspective, often focusing on the inferior status accorded to women by society, the tales include "turned," an ironic story with a startling twist, in which a husband seduces and impregnates a naïve servant; "Cottagette," concerning the romance of a young artist and a man who's apparently too good to be true; "Mr. Peebles' Heart," a liberating tale of a fiftyish shopkeeper whose sister-in-law, a doctor, persuades him to take a solo trip to Europe, with revivifying results; "The Yellow Wallpaper"; and three other outstanding stories.

These charming tales are not only highly readable and full of humor and invention, but also offer ample food for thought about the social, economic, and personal relationship of men and women � and how they might be improved.

Collects:
—The Yellow Wallpaper
—Three Thanksgivings
—The Cottagette
—TܰԱ
—Making a Change
—If I Were a Man
—Mr. Peebles' Heart]]> 129 Charlotte Perkins Gilman 0486298574 Anie 5
The room she is given in the estate is what she assumes to have originally been a nursery, as the windows are barred (symbolic of her imprisonment) and a gaudy, torn yellow wallpaper. During her stay she writes in a secret journal, and describes all of the eerie experiences she is having since moving in, most importantly the effect the wallpaper is having on her sanity. Since this is the only thing she has for stimulation, she naturally begins obsessing over it, tracing her fingers across the pattern, until one summer day she sees a figure in the paper that is trapped behind the shadows of the bars over the windows.

At this point, with a husband who doesn’t give her an ounce of attention other than to pat her on the head like a small child, and a lonely house that absorbs all of her obsessive thoughts, she goes completely mad. When she barricades herself in the room, her husband tries desperately to break in, only to find her crawling in frantic circles around the room, tearing at the wallpaper.

The story ends with her basically in a trance, trampling her husband to death in her frenzy.]]> 4.05 1892 The Yellow Wallpaper and Other Stories
author: Charlotte Perkins Gilman
name: Anie
average rating: 4.05
book published: 1892
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves:
review:
I’m not even sure where to begin with this story, as there is so much I could say about it. It is strange in the extreme, but also a fascinating and powerful feminist piece of fiction. It is told in the first person, and is about a woman and her physician husband who move out to the countryside in an attempt to calm down her“hysteria�. While her husband does love her, he doesn’t really understand her, and it eventually drives her to madness.

The room she is given in the estate is what she assumes to have originally been a nursery, as the windows are barred (symbolic of her imprisonment) and a gaudy, torn yellow wallpaper. During her stay she writes in a secret journal, and describes all of the eerie experiences she is having since moving in, most importantly the effect the wallpaper is having on her sanity. Since this is the only thing she has for stimulation, she naturally begins obsessing over it, tracing her fingers across the pattern, until one summer day she sees a figure in the paper that is trapped behind the shadows of the bars over the windows.

At this point, with a husband who doesn’t give her an ounce of attention other than to pat her on the head like a small child, and a lonely house that absorbs all of her obsessive thoughts, she goes completely mad. When she barricades herself in the room, her husband tries desperately to break in, only to find her crawling in frantic circles around the room, tearing at the wallpaper.

The story ends with her basically in a trance, trampling her husband to death in her frenzy.
]]> <![CDATA[Twenty Years After (Trilogie des Mousquetaires #2)]]> 7184
Twenty Years After (1845), the sequel to The Three Musketeers, is a supreme creation of suspense and heroic adventure.

Two decades have passed since the musketeers triumphed over Cardinal Richelieu and Milady. Time has weakened their resolve, and dispersed their loyalties. But treasons and stratagems still cry out for justice: civil war endangers the throne of France, while in England Cromwell threatens to send Charles I to the scaffold. Dumas brings his immortal quartet out of retirement to cross swords with time, the malevolence of men, and the forces of history. But their greatest test is a titanic struggle with the son of Milady, who wears the face of Evil.]]> 845 Alexandre Dumas 0192838431 Anie 0 to-read-classics 4.06 1845 Twenty Years After (Trilogie des Mousquetaires #2)
author: Alexandre Dumas
name: Anie
average rating: 4.06
book published: 1845
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves: to-read-classics
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Burn (Songs of Submission, #5)]]> 17909617
Until you surrender yourself to me fully, I will not touch you.

Until the world can know you belong to me, I will not kiss you.

I'm going to be inches away, at your side. I'm going to whisper in your ear and put my breath on your neck, but the heat of my skin will not feel the shudder of yours until you commit yourself to me completely and without reservation.]]> 197 C.D. Reiss Anie 4 4.25 Burn (Songs of Submission, #5)
author: C.D. Reiss
name: Anie
average rating: 4.25
book published:
rating: 4
read at: 2016/12/15
date added: 2024/08/07
shelves:
review:

]]> The Might (The Raven Rings) 60524756
Hirka forbereder seg på å møte det rådende huset i en kald, hierarkisk verden der forakten for svakhet regjerer. Motvillig aksepterer hun sin skjebne, i håp om å holde Rime i live og Ymslanda trygt. Men de likfødtes tørst etter Evna er altoppslukende, og Hirka innser at krigen hun ville stanse, er uunngåelig. En innsikt som snart vil utfordre alt hun har trodd på og kjempet for. Evna er den tredje og siste boka i den kritikerroste fantasyserien Ravneringene. En spektakulær finale som utforsker røtter, makt og hovmod.]]> 504 Siri Pettersen Anie 0 to-read 4.51 2015 The Might (The Raven Rings)
author: Siri Pettersen
name: Anie
average rating: 4.51
book published: 2015
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/08/06
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[House of Flame and Shadow (Crescent City, #3)]]> 52857700
Bryce Quinlan never expected to see a world other than Midgard, but now that she has, all she wants is to get back. Everything she loves is in Midgard: her family, her friends, her mate. Stranded in a strange new world, she's going to need all her wits about her to get home again. And that's no easy feat when she has no idea who to trust.

Hunt Athalar has found himself in some deep holes in his life, but this one might be the deepest of all. After a few brief months with everything he ever wanted, he's in the Asteri's dungeons again, stripped of his freedom and without a clue as to Bryce's fate. He's desperate to help her, but until he can escape the Asteri's leash, his hands are quite literally tied.

In this sexy, breathtaking sequel to the #1 bestsellers House of Earth and Blood and House of Sky and Breath, Sarah J. Maas's Crescent City series reaches new heights as Bryce and Hunt's world is brought to the brink of collapse-with its future resting on their shoulders.]]> 835 Sarah J. Maas 1681193094 Anie 0 to-read 4.15 2024 House of Flame and Shadow (Crescent City, #3)
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Anie
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2024
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/07/10
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?]]> 761996 Smooth Talk, which became the subject of much feminist debate.


This casebook includes an introduction by the editor, a chronology of Oates’s life, an authoritative text of “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been,� an essay by Oates on Smooth Talk, the original Life article about the serial killer, ten critical essays (including two about the film), and a bibliography.
The contributors are Brenda O. Daly, Christina Marsden Gillis, Don Moser, Tom Quirk, B. Ruby Rich, R.J.R. Rockwood, Larry Rubin, Gretchen Schulz, Marie Mitchell Oleson Urbanski, Joyce M. Wegs, Marilyn C. Wesley, and Joan D. Winslow.

]]> 178 Joyce Carol Oates 0813521351 Anie 5 4.11 1966 Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?
author: Joyce Carol Oates
name: Anie
average rating: 4.11
book published: 1966
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2024/06/14
shelves:
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Nameless Heir (Sunblood Trilogy, #1)]]> 205573177 Fallon Solveij was born to be on a throne, and let the gods hear her when she swore she would sit upon one again. No matter what it took.

A fugitive hell-bent on revenge, Fallon needs an army if she is going to reclaim her birthright as heir of the Blodvinger Clan. Alas, her reputation as Barwyn’s Bastard leads to her capture and imprisonment in enemy lands.

Fallon’s cellmate, a Hulder named Elowen, pulls back the curtain to a world straight out of her late mother’s storybooks: Faeries. The Fae were real. Promising to get Elowen home, Fallon pauses her plans of vengeance. A strange boy with mismatched eyes reluctantly helps the girls to safety, but the Fae realm of Elphyne is not as perfect as her old bedtime stories portrayed it to be.

As the last Fire Fae, Fritjof Aodh has set his sights on claiming the Ash Throne and ruling Elphyne. Unbeknownst to him, a trio of half-blooded misfits might be the last thing standing in his way. But there is a far darker enemy working in the shadows, and it is going to take more than a broken girl, an outcast boy, and an abandoned maiden to stop them.]]> 455 Emma Arch Anie 0 to-read, will-get-back-to 4.53 The Nameless Heir (Sunblood Trilogy, #1)
author: Emma Arch
name: Anie
average rating: 4.53
book published:
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/06/03
shelves: to-read, will-get-back-to
review:

]]> Titan Hoppers 61261449
Born talentless, Iro has all but resigned himself to a life of drudgery, watching his sister hop across to the massive space titan for supplies. But when the titan explodes and his sister is killed, Iro finds a new determination to take her place. He’s not about to let weakness prevent him.

When the fleet encounters a new titan, filled with powerful monsters, deadly traps, and mysterious cloaked figures, Iro is the first to spontaneously manifest a new talent. Now sent to a different ship, to train with others far beyond his strength, Iro will have to train twice as hard just to catch up.

To protect his fleet, and to uncover the mysteries of the titans, Iro won’t just open the Gates of Power. He’ll break them.]]> Rob J. Hayes Anie 0 to-read 3.86 2022 Titan Hoppers
author: Rob J. Hayes
name: Anie
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2022
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/06/03
shelves: to-read
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Lady of the Lake (Cosimo Classics Literature)]]> 12767 Fast poured his eyes at pity's claims,
And now, with mingled grief and ire,
He saw the murdered maid expire.
"God, in my need, be my relief,
As I wreak this on yonder Chief!"

- from The Lady of the Lake

Wildly successful with readers and critics on both sides of the Atlantic when it was first published in 1810, this is Scott's renowned romantic poem about love and honor amidst a bitter rivalry between King James V and the powerful Douglas family.

This revised edition, published in 1899, features an extensive introduction that places Scott and his writings in historical and literary context, as well as explanatory notes, study guides, and suggested selections for class or book-group readings. Scottish novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott (1771 - 1832), a literary hero of his native land, turned to writing only when his law practice and printing business foundered. Among his most beloved works are Rob Roy (1818), and Ivanhoe (1820). American writer William Vaughn Moody (1869 - 1910) served as co-editor of the Harvard Monthly and assistant professor of English at the University of Chicago. He authored several verse plays, books of poetry, and histories and criticisms of English literature.]]> 276 Walter Scott 1596054727 Anie 0 to-read-classics 3.87 1810 The Lady of the Lake (Cosimo Classics Literature)
author: Walter Scott
name: Anie
average rating: 3.87
book published: 1810
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/05/10
shelves: to-read-classics
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Swann’s Way (In Search of Lost Time, #1)]]> 133539
He claims that people are defined by the objects that surround them and must piece together their identities bit by bit each time they wake up. The young Marcel is so nervous about sleeping alone that he looks forward to his mother's goodnight kisses, but also dreads them as a sign of an impending sleepless night. One night, when Charles Swann, a friend of his grandparents, is visiting, his mother cannot come kiss him goodnight. He stays up until Swann leaves and looks so sad and pitiful that even his disciplinarian father encourages "Mamma" to spend the night in Marcel's room.]]> 615 Marcel Proust 0375751548 Anie 4 classic-literature
I have come to find you either love Proust, or you don't like him at all. I am in the "Love Him" camp and really enjoyed his loquacious descriptions. I have broken this volume down more in an instagram series, if you are interested in those you can find them on there @/meetmeinmalkovich. The series is called "Unfolding Proust".]]> 4.28 1913 Swann’s Way (In Search of Lost Time, #1)
author: Marcel Proust
name: Anie
average rating: 4.28
book published: 1913
rating: 4
read at: 2023/10/30
date added: 2024/04/29
shelves: classic-literature
review:
I set out at the beginning of the year to read this entire series. Predictably, it took me almost the entire year to finish the first volume, and simply because I took my time with it and savored it.

I have come to find you either love Proust, or you don't like him at all. I am in the "Love Him" camp and really enjoyed his loquacious descriptions. I have broken this volume down more in an instagram series, if you are interested in those you can find them on there @/meetmeinmalkovich. The series is called "Unfolding Proust".
]]> <![CDATA[The Queen of Thieves (The Moonwind Mysteries #2)]]> 63902317 207 Johan Rundberg 1662509626 Anie 3 audiobook review to come 3.97 The Queen of Thieves (The Moonwind Mysteries #2)
author: Johan Rundberg
name: Anie
average rating: 3.97
book published:
rating: 3
read at: 2024/03/25
date added: 2024/03/25
shelves: audiobook
review:
review to come
]]> <![CDATA[Molten Flux (Flux Catastrophe #1)]]> 142332941
His prowess with a rifle draws the interest of the Locusts, a clandestine faction within Revance’s ranks. It turns out that not all aboard the fortress seek to stamp out the plague of molten flux, the mysterious liquid metal that fills the bodies of the dead and makes them walk again.

Some seek to profit.

The reanimated corpses —known as autominds� are used to control enormous contraptions of magnetically enchanted metal, forming the backbone of The Droughtland’s factories. The only thing stopping the smelters from expanding their illicit industry is Revance.

The Locusts make Ryza an offer. Either help overthrow Revance to do the smelter’s bidding or reveal his father’s legacy as the very thing Ryza now fights against.

The former is unthinkable. The latter means death.

Ryza resolves to infiltrate them and expose the mutiny, plunging him back into the murky underworld of the smelters, testing his convictions, and even leading him to the ancient origins of molten flux itself.]]> 470 Jonathan Weiss Anie 5 He's been conscripted to the ever-moving fortress known as Revance, but something needs to be fixed with operations, and Ryza is hellbent on figuring it out. I gotta say, this book captured me from the start!


My CAWPILE Scores:
Characters: 9/10 They live free in my head
Ryza is a reluctant hero who slips up, but he's such a cool character, flaws and all. I, of course, LOVE HOLM also.

Atmosphere: 14/14
breakdown
- setting: 10/10 Spot on world-building
- mood: 4/4 I felt all the feels
This was a mashup of some of my favorite elements in science fiction, so this really hit the nail on the head for me. It was the perfect atmosphere. Chef kiss to making me scream at a character. Haven't done that in a hot minute.

Writing Style: 15/18
breakdown
- storytelling: 8/10 Very good storytelling
- grammar: 3/4 Some grammatical errors
- format: 4/4 No formatting issues
For the most part, the storytelling was engaging and easy to read.

Plot: 9/10 Different and I liked it
From the start, I was enthralled with the idea of a Mad Max + Howl's Moving Castle concept, and Weiss delivered so much more!

Intrigue: 13/14
breakdown
- overall: 9/10 Didn't want to put it down
- readability: 4/4 Gonna start a book club forum

Logic: 13/14
breakdown
- plot logic: 9/10 I understand and want more
- character logic: 4/4 Characters made sense
Even when I wanted to throttle some characters, they do make sense, lol

Excitement: 10/10 I'm in the exclusive fan group
EVERYONE GO OUT AND READ THIS OK? OK.


Totals:
CAWPILE: 82/90
Final Rating: 5 Stars]]> 4.51 2023 Molten Flux (Flux Catastrophe #1)
author: Jonathan Weiss
name: Anie
average rating: 4.51
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at: 2024/03/24
date added: 2024/03/25
shelves:
review:
Ryza doesn't give a flux.
He's been conscripted to the ever-moving fortress known as Revance, but something needs to be fixed with operations, and Ryza is hellbent on figuring it out. I gotta say, this book captured me from the start!


My CAWPILE Scores:
Characters: 9/10 They live free in my head
Ryza is a reluctant hero who slips up, but he's such a cool character, flaws and all. I, of course, LOVE HOLM also.

Atmosphere: 14/14
breakdown
- setting: 10/10 Spot on world-building
- mood: 4/4 I felt all the feels
This was a mashup of some of my favorite elements in science fiction, so this really hit the nail on the head for me. It was the perfect atmosphere. Chef kiss to making me scream at a character. Haven't done that in a hot minute.

Writing Style: 15/18
breakdown
- storytelling: 8/10 Very good storytelling
- grammar: 3/4 Some grammatical errors
- format: 4/4 No formatting issues
For the most part, the storytelling was engaging and easy to read.

Plot: 9/10 Different and I liked it
From the start, I was enthralled with the idea of a Mad Max + Howl's Moving Castle concept, and Weiss delivered so much more!

Intrigue: 13/14
breakdown
- overall: 9/10 Didn't want to put it down
- readability: 4/4 Gonna start a book club forum

Logic: 13/14
breakdown
- plot logic: 9/10 I understand and want more
- character logic: 4/4 Characters made sense
Even when I wanted to throttle some characters, they do make sense, lol

Excitement: 10/10 I'm in the exclusive fan group
EVERYONE GO OUT AND READ THIS OK? OK.


Totals:
CAWPILE: 82/90
Final Rating: 5 Stars
]]>