fantasy
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*Advanced Reader Copy* An ambitious seafaring fantasy filled with powerful mages, ancient gods, and expansive world-building. While Ian Green creates a vivid and immersive setting, I personally struggled to connect with the story’s pacing and repetitive structure. Although it wasn’t the right fantasy for me, readers who enjoy action-packed adventures across richly imagined worlds may… Read more
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Legends & Lattes is a warm and enchanting cosy fantasy that swaps epic battles and dangerous quests for coffee, friendship, and finding a place to belong. Following Viv, an orc who leaves behind her life as a warrior to open the world’s first coffee shop, Travis Baldree creates a charming story about second chances, unexpected… Read more
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The House in the Cerulean Sea is a heartwarming cosy fantasy that blends humour, magic and unforgettable characters with powerful themes of acceptance, found family and challenging prejudice. It’s a gentle yet thought-provoking story that reminds us that sometimes the people we’re taught to fear are the ones who teach us the most about love… Read more
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*Advanced Reader Copy* A world divided by angels and demons, soul bonds that change lives forever, and a knight forced to question everything she has ever believed. The Wretched Divine delivers a rich high fantasy romance filled with forbidden tension, betrayal, political conflict, and emotional bonds that blur the line between good and evil. Slow… Read more
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Spark of the Everflame is an accessible fantasy romance that feels very much like the foundation of something much bigger. While parts of the story are predictable, the political tension, layered world-building, and Diem’s coming-of-age journey left me with more questions than answers — and just enough intrigue to want to continue the series. Read more
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Clytemnestra is a sharp, accessible feminist retelling that gives one of Greek mythology’s most notorious women her own voice. I enjoyed how easy it was to read, though the short, punchy sentences sometimes made the story feel a bit rushed. The themes of female rage, power, and trauma come through clearly, especially in the chapter… Read more
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I am a Weyward, and wild inside. My blood runs with the memory of herbs and whispers, the rustle of wings and wind through trees. They called us witches once, but they never understood — our power was never in spells or curses. It was in knowing, in listening, in belonging to the earth itself Read more
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A Marvellous Light is a queer, magical realist novel set in an alternative Edwardian England. It follows Robin Blyth, who unexpectedly finds himself in a new government position that plunges him into a hidden world of magic. After being attacked and cursed, Robin must rely on the help of Edwin Courcey, a prickly and intelligent… Read more
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Last weekend I was lucky enough to go to The Queen’s Reading Room, a literary festival at Chatsworth House. I was so proud to meet seven wonderful authors, including Samantha Shannon. I also attended her talk Fantasy and Dystopia within Fiction, where she was interviewed by the equally incredible Saara El-Arifi. The setting made it… Read more
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On Saturday 20th September, I had the absolute pleasure of attending The Queen’s Reading Room, a remarkable literary festival hosted within the breath-taking grounds of Chatsworth House and Gardens — famously recognised as the cinematic backdrop of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Read more
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The Unmaking of June Farrow is a fantasy/sci-fi novel by Adrienne Young, featuring June, a woman who travels from 2023 to 1951, entangled in a complex timeline involving murder, romance, and a family curse affecting only women. The engaging story highlights gender roles, despite leaving some questions unanswered, and showcases intriguing character relationships. Read more
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A Discovery of Witches follows Diana Bishop, a historian and reluctant witch who discovers a powerful manuscript, plunging her into a magical world. As her powers awaken, she forms a bond with Matthew Clairmont, a vampire. Their relationship, fraught with tension and conflict, drives the narrative, offering a modern twist on supernatural lore. Read more
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Rosie Hewlett’s fantasy novel centres on Medea, a young princess navigating her magical abilities while seeking freedom from her family’s rejection. The engaging story, rich with Greek mythology and strong female characters, offers twists and a deep exploration of love and manipulation, though the rushed ending leaves questions unanswered. Read more
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Tusk Love, inspired by Critical Role, is a romantic fantasy about Guinevere and Oskar, whose chemistry ignites during a perilous journey. The novel combines D&D adventure, humor, and steamy romance, appealing to both fans and newcomers. Its compelling pacing and charming nods to the series make it a must-read for fantasy romance lovers. Read more
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The third and final book in Robin Hobb’s Farseer Trilogy follows FitzChivalry as he revives from death, striving to reclaim his identity and seek the rightful king while combating King Regal. Rich in character development and intricate magic, the story culminates in an unexpected yet satisfying conclusion, highlighting the journey and growth of its characters. Read more
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Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb follows Fitz, a royal bastard raised in a castle stable, as he trains to become an assassin for the crown amidst a looming civil war. The character development, especially through Fitz’s unique perspective and relationships, enhances the story. This engaging fantasy book appeals to fans of historical fiction and classic… Read more
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Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb follows Fitz, a royal bastard raised in a castle stable, as he trains to become an assassin for the crown amidst a looming civil war. The character development, especially through Fitz’s unique perspective and relationships, enhances the story. This engaging fantasy book appeals to fans of historical fiction and classic… Read more