natashaleighton_'s reviews
976 reviews

adventurous dark funny mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Having seen soo many people rave about this book and its comparisons to the MCU I knew I had to check it out. And I’m glad to report it didn’t disappoint!

It was a fast paced, rollercoaster of a read with high stakes action and a nuance exploration surrounding consent, power and the dangers of corporate greed which I found incredibly fascinating.

The characters were really endearing too, especially Sil, our Black Widow-esque protagonist racing against the clock to clear her name (before the super computer in her head kills her.) I loved her banter filled interactions and slightly impulsive, badass-ness that had me rooting for her from the start.

The dystopian world and shadowy organisation Sil works for wasn’t very fleshed out, but the lack of info surrounding the company worked in its favour as the mystery only intensified the perception of villainy. It felt very much like Minority Report and The Bourne Identity had a love child with Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

I also had a soft spot Ryder, Sil’s devastatingly handsome (rebel) love interest, who Sil had soo much chemistry with. If you love a side of romance with your action then you’re gonna really enjoy this!

I’m still pretty new to the YA Sci-Fi genre but found this such an engaging and easy to follow read, and with soo many shocking twists I didn’t see coming —I was on the edge of my seat until the very last page. If you’re also quite new to Sci-Fi I highly recommend checking this out as it’s definitely a great intro to the genre. Just be sure to check the TWs.

Content Warnings

The Thirteenth Child by Erin A. Craig

Go to review page

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

A deliciously lush and atmospherically gothic, dark fairytale of a read that follows Hazel, the thirteenth child in a struggling (and rather neglectful) family, who becomes the goddaughter of Death.

Inspired by the Grimm fairytales “Godfather Death” and “The Story of the Youth Who Went Forth to Learn What Fear Was”, Craig manages capture the essence of the originals thanks to her decadently gothic (and utterly addictive) prose. As well injecting her own unique spin, in the sweeping Cottagecore-esque fantasy setting that I was absolutely obsessed with.

But it was the compelling cast of characters (the good, bad and morally ambiguous) that really made this a such an intriguing read.

Hazel, our protagonist (and the mortal Goddaughter of Death) was soo endearing and I loved seeing her grow from the neglected and unwanted child into a capable and caring person, who uses her healing abilities for good. Her mortal perspective, and the conflicting emotions that arise from the expectations her immortal godfather (and the other gods) have of her was fascinating.

And yet, despite not really understanding Hazel’s longing for human interaction, Merrick (the god of death) did genuinely care for Hazel, (more so than most of her human family.) And the vulnerability he shows as their father-daughter bond grows was actually quite sweet to watch unfold.

We do see some growing pains as the pair occasionally disagree (a right of passage when raising a teen). But I liked Craig’s use of juxtaposing mortality and immortality—emphasising human life and its governance by immortals, who, thanks to their disconnect, will never truly understand what it means to be human.

I adored the romantic tension between Hazel and Leo too, which though brief, was full of soo much emotion. The Intensity of their feelings for one another was soo well done, that I was in a literal chokehold rooting for them to find happiness together.

This was actually the first book by Erin A. Craig I’ve ever read, but I know it definitely won’t be the last!

Overall, this was a satisfyingly nuanced and emotionally complex feast for the senses, with a powerful underlying message about life and the human condition— that gothic, fairytale loving fantasy fans are almost certain to enjoy. Though I do recommend checking the TWs.

Also, thanks to Blackcrow PR and Rock the Boat books for the gorgeous finished copy.

Content Warnings

So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional funny tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Rachel Harrison’s deliciously eerie and addictive take on vampires delivers a feminist twist— in this compelling exploration of love, friendship, identity and female empowerment. That fellow horror fans will almost certainly want to sink their teeth into.

We follow sole POV character Sloane Parker, and her childhood bestie Naomi on a weekend getaway to the Finger lakes for Sloane’s 36th Birthday. Which quickly spirals out of control when the pair find themselves the guests of honour at a vampire gathering that ends in violence. Leaving them to work through a lifetime of self doubt as they slowly come to grips with their new, bloodier and far more complicated lives.

From the vividly intense, atmospheric settings to the addictively visceral descriptions, and character driven narrative. Harrison’s skillful prose is unmatched! I was completely in awe of her ability to craft such flawed, complex and endearing characters. And absolutely loved getting to know both Sloane and Naomi, whose Thelma and Louise-esque, ride or die friendship dynamics really stole the show.

I also really liked that we explore the transformation from the POV of women in their late thirties. A lot of vampire stories focus on the allure of eternal life for younger people, most of whom have barely lived long enough to fully comprehend the long term ramifications of such a change. So to see more authentic reactions (and the conflicting emotions) surrounding uprooting an entire life (and the people who must be left behind) was really interesting to me.

The vampires themselves were all quite interesting too, though we don’t go nearly as in depth to them as we do Sloane or Naomi. But the little glimmer humour that abound in these scenes (thanks in part to Ilie and his adorable earnestness) really helped to break up some of the more emotionally intense moments.

Henry, sloane’s brooding vampire admirer (whose adoration was in stark contrast to her rather bland relationship with husband Joel) was definitely my fave vampire. His chemistry with Sloane was scorchingly good and I was rooting for him the very moment they locked eyes.

I don’t want to say too much else as I don’t want to spoil the plot, but if you love pacy feminist horrors (and sexy vampires) then you definitely need to order yourself a copy ASAP! Just check TWs beforehand.

Also, a huge thank you to Kabriya and Titan Books for the stunning proof

Content Warnings

A Werewolf's Guide to Seducing a Vampire by Sarah Hawley

Go to review page

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

The third and final instalment in the Glimmer Falls series was a brilliantly funny, whimsically heartfelt and sizzlingly romantic end to what has been my favourite paranormal Rom-com series.

Set two years after the events of A Demon’s Guide To Wooing A Witch we follow Plant Emporium owner (and Mariel’s werewolf Boss) Ben Rosewood after he drunkenly buys a possessed crystal on EBay that contains the terrifyingly beautiful (600 year old) Vampire Succubus, Eleonore.

The sparks fly instantly between the pair, but Ben is determined to help Eleonore end the curse which sees her forced to obey the orders of whoever owns the crystal. Giving Eleonore the chance to choose her own future, wherever it may lead her…

I didn’t think it was possible to love this series more than I already did, but Sarah Hawley has once again proved otherwise! And Eleonore (despite being a new character) immediately stole the top spot as my fave Glimmer Falls resident (sorry Calladia and Astaroth.) Her fierce and fiery disposition actually reminded me of Mazikeen (from Lucifer), which I loved!

Trapped for centuries and ordered to commit terrible acts (on behalf of the witch who cursed her) she’s full of rage and pain when we first meet her, but with the support of Ben and the other Glimmer Falls residents, she begins to process her trauma and start her journey to recovery.

Ben was great too. A gentle, compassionate character, he put everyone first even to the detriment to his own health. It’s why I think he and Eleonore worked soo well together. He was soo patient and willing to give her the time she needed to adjust. Likewise, she was able to speak up when people asked too much of him.

But his selflessness and Hawley’s sensitive, realistic depiction of anxiety really helped to emphasise just how life altering anxiety can be. Making Ben not only a layered, multidimensional character, but a relatable one as well.

There’s still plenty of whimsy and humour, but it was the found family vibes I enjoyed the most. If you loved the previous books you’ll also be pleased to know plenty fan favourites return; with Mariel, Ozroth, Calladia, Astaroth and Lilith (among many others) all making appearances.

Overall, a must read for all paranormal Rom-com lovers! Though do check TWs.

Also, thanks to Gollancz for the finished copy (and replica possessed crystal.)

Content Warnings

A Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan

Go to review page

adventurous emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

An immersive and plot twisty, high stakes romantasy that swept me off my feet! Fans of magic, witches, dragons or sizzlingly intense (angst-filled) romance should definitely consider checking this out. It’s MARVELLOUS!

You probably know by now that I’m a sucker for books with dragons, so it should come as no surprise that I jumped at the chance to read this. Described as an enemies to lovers/ marriage of convience romantasy (with dragons), I went into this with very high expectations—and to my relief it definitely lived up to them.

The worldbuilding was good, though a little light in terms of lore. But, the tension between our MCs, Tamsyn and Fell (once they came face to face) was incredibly delicious. I really liked Tamsyn, and found myself emotionally invested in her almost instantly. I do warn, we start the book from Tamsyn’s POV during a violent situation (a whipping) so I urge everyone to check the TWs before picking this up. That being said, the depth we get from Tamsyn (and also Fell) and the emotions they were anow invoke were impressive.

An orphan raised alongside princesses and treated (for the most part) as part of the family, I imagine it wasn’t easy for Tamsyn to come to terms with being a whipping girl. The flashbacks had me especially weepy at times and wanting to give her soo many hugs! I personally don’t think I’d have the mental capacity (let alone the pain threshold) to endure what she’s had to her whole life.

Yet, her love for her “sisters” and the optimism and compassion she shares not only for them but for the King and Queen was remarkable — they totally didn’t deserve her.

And I can’t forget the fabulously brooding Fell, who was incredibly likeable too. Stoic and guarded at first glance, with a beastly reputation to mask his hidden compassionate side. I loved watching Tamsyn slowly uncover just how caring he truly is—making her to reevaluate everything she thought she knew about him. I also loved that he utterly embodies the “touch her and die” trope when it comes to Tamsyn, who he definitely falls for first.

We don’t get to explore his past in as much detail as we do Tamsyn’s, but the snippets we did get were good. I will say that though I did suspect a certain twist when it came to Fell, I still didn’t fully expect THOSE turn of events. I wasn’t ready for it to end soo soon though! I’m now waiting with bated breath for news on the sequel (which I desperately NEED a copy of immediately!)

This is also a prequel of sorts, for the origins of the dragon shifters in Sophie Jordan’s Firelight trilogy (A YA series I believe.) I’ve actually yet to read it, but knowing it’s set in the same world has me really eager to read it.

Overall, a satisfyingly pacy read that romantasy readers should definitely consider checking out.

Also, thanks to Rachel Quin and HQ for the stunning proof.

Content Warnings

Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood

Go to review page

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Another amazing romance from Ali Hazelwood, who has never steered me wrong! I never thought I’d be this invested in chess or a romance surrounding it … but Mallory and Nolan (amidst their rivals to lovers banter and deliciously intense chemistry) might have just given me a new appreciation of the game.

I really enjoyed the supporting cast of characters too, which brought an added layer of depth and emotion to Mallory and Nolan as we got to know their friends and family. Especially Mallory’s younger sister Darcy and Nolan’s best friends (Tanu and Emil) who I found entertaining.

If you’ve loved Ali’s other books then you’re certain to enjoy this, but just be aware it is a YA romance so don’t expect any spice. And as always, do check TWs beforehand.

Content Warnings

Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood

Go to review page

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

A heartwarmingly cosy, fantasy debut whose autumnal, witchy aesthetics will have fans (nostalgic for 90s faves Charmed and Practical magic) completely spellbound!

Set in the UK (which pleasantly surprised me as I was expecting a Gilmore Girl esque- US town) we follow Belladonna Blackthorn, who, after the disastrous trial to prove herself worthy of her Coven’s magic); is given until the end of October to change their minds, by undergoing a series of magical trials (which she must pass) — or risk losing her magic forever.

But with dark magic and a mysterious saboteur working against her, Belle will need all the help she can get— from both her magic wielding mother, coven appointed mentor and frustratingly handsome watchman, who is sworn to protect her…

I adored every second of this! It’s the perfect blend of The Ex Hex and Sabrina The Teenage Witch (except our protagonist is a just turned 30 bookseller trying to work through her magic and life based insecurities.) It does start a little slow, but did quickly pick up once Belle started using her magic.

I really loved the heartfelt sense of whimsy and emotional reflection that Lucy Jane Wood managed to weave into her prose. Allowing us to explore the themes of identity, self love, connection and the fear of failure in such a tender,nuanced and empowering way.

I definitely feel a lot of readers are gonna relate to Belle’s conflicted emotions surrounding the pressures that life and all its important milestones can have —particularly if you’ve recently (or a close to) entering your 30s and still don’t feel like you’ve checked all the socially expected boxes.

But the compelling cast of characters and their endearing support of Belle as she learns to reconnect with magic, and rediscover everything that makes her soo amazing, was what really made this a standout out read. The romance was also really good; slow-burn and swoon-worthy without taking away from the rest of the plot. I also loved our drool worthy love interest, Rune, (who we definitely didn’t get nearly enough of!)

Life affirmations and magical coziness aside, we also meet some adorable furry companions in Belle’s cat familiar,Jinx and her mum’s Irish wolfhound, aptly named Wolfie —both of whom I also need to see more of.

Overall, a wonderfully uplifting, warm hug of a read that cosy fantasy lovers and fans of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches should definitely check out. But do check the TWs.

Also, a huge thank you Book Break UK for the proof.

Content Warnings

Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Why did I take soo long to read this!? It’s definitely gonna be one of my fave reads this year — and one I won’t be forgetting for a very long time!

Drawing on her Nigerian heritage and her beautifully skillful prose, it’s easy to see why Tomi Adeyemi’s sweeping YA fantasy debut has become such a beloved book to millions worldwide.

The rich magic system, vividly detailed lore and pacy, high stakes action will have any fantasy adventure aficionado on the edge of their seats. But Adeyemi’s ability to weave such dark (yet incredibly relevant) themes into such an empowering story — imbuing her cast of characters with such depth and poignancy that had me crying (and during the lighter moments laughing) alongside them.

Zelie (one of our MCs and the first POV of character we meet) was probably my favourite of all three of our POV characters. Headstrong, short tempered but utterly invested in protecting her family from the kingdom’s oppressive regime.

Delving deep into her fears, insecurites and childhood trauma we get to explore Zelie’s connections with the Orisha, her magic and her bond to her maji powers —which really brought her to life for me and helped me to understand her motivations and thought processes.

Runaway Princess, Amari and Zelie’s steadfast older brother, Tzain were both really fascinating characters too and I look forward to following the journeys in the rest of the series, I just wish we got the explore Tzain’s POV.

With the themes of oppression, inequality and genocide at the forefront of the story, it’s definitely not hard to see comparisons to current world events— highlighting the work that still needs to be done to create a safer, more equal society for everyone.

It’s rare that a book will leave me utterly speechless (and unable to think about anything else) but this one certainly managed to , and that ending?! I won’t spoil it, but if you love your plot twists frequent and shockingly unpredictable then you’re gonna be incredibly satisfied.

Overall, a phenomenally adventurous, epic fantasy that really lived up to the hype, I’m soo excited to read the rest of the series! Though do check TWs beforehand.

Also, a huge thank you to Pan Macmillan/ Macmillan Children’s Books for the finished copy.

Content Warnings

A Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Gorgeously written and utterly atmospheric, Allison Saft’s folklore infused, adult fantasy debut felt like the sapphic, dark academia twin to Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries and I loved every mystery-ladened second!

Saft’s vividly detailed descriptions of the world and the creatures who inhabit it were phenomenal, and I adored all of the magical (and often deadly) creatures (ie: nixies, alps, wildeleutes & lindworms) that we got to encounter, however brief. I do wish we had a companion novel detailing each creature as some of them (like the Alp) were super fascinating.

The murder mystery aspect, and introspective, character driven elements were also really good and managed to propel the plot in such a deliciously satisfying manner-which had me on tenterhooks the entire time.

I do want to note that this is a single POV story, told from the perspective of Lorelai, our surly, sharp- tongued protagonist who I found thoroughly compulsive. Her perspective was complex and rife with emotion, but did mean every character was a suspect whose motivations we had to work out. Which, admittedly, did help to keep the mystery (and high stakes intensity of the team’s political machinations) at the forefront of the story.

Though a little prickly at first, I ended up really loving Lorelai, whose tragic past experiences and guardedness have allowed her (and her heart) to remain protected from the world. But her academic rivalry with the sunshiny Sylvia Von Wolff, who soo easily managed to break down her walls (and get under her skin) really helped to showcase a slightly softer more, selfless side of Lorelai that I found quite endearing.

Their slow burn romance was good too and I chuckled quite a few times at how oblivious they both could be —despite the blatant yearning and long stares they threw at one another.

Overall, a satisfyingly magical read that messy, political intrigue addicts, folklore fiends and sapphic fantasy lovers should definitely consider adding to their TBRs this autumn. But do check the TWs.

Also, a huge thank you to Blackcrow PR and Daphne Press for the proof.

Content Warnings

Isabel and the Rogue by Liana De la Rosa

Go to review page

adventurous emotional lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

Rich in historical detail, with a delicious amount of suspense and romantic tension, the second book in The Luna Sisters series was a delight from start to finish!

We follow, Isabel, the middle Luna sister, who uses her often forgotten presence at social gatherings to covertly gain intel on behalf of her home countries’ (Mexico) president— in order to help Mexico defeat the invading French army.

Only, she has a slight problem… the roguish Captain Sirius Dawson doesn’t find her nearly as forgettable. And as a covert agent himself, for the Home office (who seduces high born ladies for counter intelligence purposes) he quickly realises Isabel’s snooping is more that just idle curiosity.

The pair do lock horns, but Sirius (who quickly finds himself outwitted and outmanoeuvred by the smart, savvy and sharp tongued Isabel) is practically besotted (not that he would ever admit it.) Especially when their intense, mutual attraction leads them into some pretty steamy predicaments that had me utterly hooked!

I absolutely adored this and think readers looking for more diversity and depth in their historical romance will definitely be pleased with this series.

Isabel and Sirius were both wonderfully compelling characters whose emotional backstories really added a layer of depth and dimension that we don’t often get in the genre.

From PTSD and survivor’s guilt to racism, colonialism, sisterhood and cultural exploitation— the spectrum of social commentary Liana De La Rosa explores is quite vast, but perfectly highlights why diverse perspectives are soo important in literature—especially in historical romances where struggles can be glossed over in favour of a more romanticised view.

As a Brit, I’m not overly familiar with Mexico’s history, especially during the era this book is set, so really enjoyed getting to explore from a non-Eurocentric perspective. It was refreshingly informative and made me appreciate Isabel and her family’s struggles all the more.

Overall a satisfyingly steamy (and deliciously angsty) historical romance that has me eager for Isabel’s sassy younger sister, Gabby’s book.

Also, thanks to Piatkus/ Little Brown UK for the PB copy.

Content Warnings

More...

natashaleighton_'s reviews 976 reviews

natashaleighton_'s reviews
976 reviews