natashaleighton_'s reviews
1048 reviews

adventurous emotional funny hopeful 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

A fun, swoon-worthy (and satisfyingly sexy) love letter to fandoms—and fanfic culture—that as a former fanfic girlie, I couldn’t help but thoroughly devour!

Rosie Danan’s newest Rom-Com; full of AO3 meta references, a sharply witty protagonist in super fan, Alex, and a feast of popular plot tropes to sink your proverbial claws into (forced proximity, black cat/golden retriever, reluctant allies,etc.) Is definitely a read that fans of paranormal shows like Buffy or Teen Wolf (or anyone in need of a feel good, werewolf romance) should consider adding to their TBRs.

I have to say, I loved the lore surrounding long standing TV Show, The Arcane Files (TAF), and the strange occurrences the show’s lead, Devin is currently experiencing. With a fan compiled archive for research and it’s moderator acting as Devin’s personal consultant, we really get a glimpse behind the scenes of life on the receiving end of fan culture as well as the fandom as a whole.

Which really highlighted the symbiotic relationship between a show and its fans, and validating the importance of fans in ensuring success —without glossing over the negative aspects that arise as a result.

But, it was the scorchingly intense chemistry between Alex and Devin, and the emotional struggles they each face (regarding intimacy, identity and their own self worth) that really made this a stand out read for me. Plus their witty interactions were soo entertaining.

I adored Alex, who despite being such a witty, compassionate and fiercely devoted person. Is still emotionally guarded, in fear of rejection and losing the people she loves most. But, her journey to finally overcome those fears (and embrace the possibilities IRL relationships can create) was phenomenal.

The same for Devin’s journey. Which sees our poster boy for disillusioned celebrity finally realise his value isn’t tied to fame or success but to his own self acceptance—and the connections he chooses to make along the way.

Overall, an enjoyable, uplifting, and delightfully spicy read that I cannot recommend enough. Though do check TWs.

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

Content Warnings

Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalco

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional mysterious 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

4.0

I loved The Kingdom of The Wicked series so was super excited when I found out Wrath’s brothers were getting their own books. And despite it taking a while for me to finally pick up (my tbr is a bit out of control) it surpassed all my expectations!

Deliciously seductive and fabulously intense, with plenty of intrigue to keep me hooked, Camilla and Envy and their chemistry laden dynamics were phenomenal! Can’t wait to read Gluttony’s book. Though do check the TWs cause it does get a little dark at times.

Content Warnings

Nightweaver by R.M. Gray

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense 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 breathtakingly immersive, rollercoaster of a read! R.M. Gray’s YA romantasy debut is packed with vividly atmospheric world-building that (when paired with the political intrigue, power struggles and fabulously intense slowburn romance) kept me in an emotional chokehold until the very last page.

The prose was stunning with a gothic, undertone that fit the grand (but eerie) Manor House setting perfectly. And I have to mention, that spectacular opening chapter— which really set the tone of this high stakes, danger-infused world.

It also gave us the chance to see MC, Aster, in her element as a fierce and resilient Pirate willing to face down death (in order to protect what she believes in.) That made the juxtaposition between her old life on the high seas and her new life at Bludgrave, (navigating a quieter, more politically charged world) all the more interesting.

There were quite a few mysteries to unravel, which made Aster and the other characters involved feel even more multi-layered and complex. like Henry, who I wasn’t initially a fan of, but whose arc (and tragic experiences) definitely made me rethink my opinions of him.

In fact, a lot of the characters have motivations that aren’t immediately apparent —which did keep me on my toes, trying to guess all the twists and turns.

I also loved the lore surrounding the Nightwalkers! Exploring aspects of their history and legends (alongside the human versions of those events) was really intriguing, especially in how history and stories can change/twist over time. (cough*The Underlings*cough.)

The romance was good too, but wasn’t the sole focus of the story. However, if you love swoon-worthy, action filled build-ups full of emotional conflict (that sees our protagonist really come into her own) then you’ll probably really enjoy this.

Overall, this was a plot twisty page turner of a debut, that’s perfect for anyone who loves female MCs as fiercely compelling as Lila Bard (or Jude Duarte.) Or loves a premise that reads like a magical Downton Abbey mixed with (the atmospheric suspense of) The Haunting of Bly Manor, (If the new household staff were formerly Pirates.) But do check the TW/CWs first.

Also, thanks to Nina Douglas & Penguin UK for the PB copy.

Content Warnings

The Sleepless by Jen Williams

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional funny inspiring mysterious reflective medium-paced

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

5.0

A gorgeously rich, YA romantasy that had me absolutely swooning at its epic, high stakes plot and unusual love triangle (between a monster girl, a possessed boy and the evil spirit that inhabits him) which had me thoroughly obsessed!

I previously read Jen Williams’ epic fantasy, Talonsister, and fell utterly in love with her ability to craft vividly immersive worlds and emotionally compelling characters (which heavily contributed to my excitement for The Sleepless.) And I have to say, I loved it even more than I had expected!

With a smaller and more intimate cast of POV characters (Elver, Artair and Lucian), Williams is able to explore each MC (their emotional inner thoughts, motivations and backstories) in even more depth. Which I felt added a unique and multilayered perspective that had me emotionally invested in all three of them.

Though Elver, our resident monster girl, was probably my favourite. After being saved by the Queen of Serpents as a child, (who gifted her with a poisonous touch) she spends her days in isolation, protecting fellow monsters within the Jih Forest.

Her emotionally guarded demeanour has saved her from the pain and disappointment of humanity. But, after meeting Artair (the only person immune to her touch) and Lucian (the parasitic spirit who inhabits him), she begins to let down her walls and finally open up to the possibility of connection and companionship. Something that leads to a lot of internal conflict and emotional tension that had me utterly hooked.

I really loved Williams’ nuanced approach to Artair and Lucian’s portrayals too, which sees them both struggle with powerlessness—in losing their bodily autonomy (Artair) and their memories (Lucian.) Though of the two, I definitely gravitated a little more towards morally grey, Lucian, who I found soo fascinating.

But I adored the complicated, love triangle-esque romance that slowly builds between our protagonists most of all. It was phenomenally swoon-worthy (though it is YA so don’t expect things to get too steamy) and led to some wonderfully (emotionally) intense scenes.

Overall, an emotionally satisfying and deliciously intense Romantasy with banter, a strong FMC and an adorable Keltraxia cub (who just wants to bite humans and eat stuff.) I recommend preordering immediately.

Also, a huge thank you to First Ink/ Bookbreak UK for the stunning (purple) proof

Content Warnings

Destroy Me by Tahereh Mafi

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional fast-paced

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

3.5

Content Warnings

Fracture Me by Tahereh Mafi

Go to review page

emotional reflective tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Content Warnings

Where Shadows Bloom by Catherine Bakewell

Go to review page

adventurous 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

This was a beautifully atmospheric coming of age fantasy, with a tender sapphic romance at its heart that readers are bound to find riveting.

The world-building was really magical and lush (with whimsical, regency-esque, Princess Bride meets Bridgerton vibes), and I adored Catherine Bakewell’s prose which was gorgeously poetic and unputdownable. And if you love the romantic chemistry of a tender, slow-burn relationship; that’s steeped in pining, and a quiet (but steadfast) affection that transcends words—then you’re probably gonna enjoy this.

Particularly as we get such a wonderful cast of characters. My fave being Female Knight, Lope, who struggles with her loyalty to, (and unspoken feelings for) the naive Lady Ofelia, who she’s duty bound to protect; and her need to stop the shadow creatures (that have plagued the kingdom for decades and taken the lives of soo many of her friends.) This duality to her motivations and the struggle she endures, really added a complexity and depth to her that I found soo compelling.

I loved the setting too — which takes the opulence of the royal palace, “Le Château Enchanté” and juxtaposes it against the (fear inducing) shadow monsters that stalk beyond the gates (and cause all manner of destruction and chaos.)

However, it was the mystery surrounding the origin of the shadows (and the King’s strange refusal to allow any mention of them), that really piqued my interest. The plot twists and reveals were all really good too, though I did manage to guess quite a lot of them.

Tonally, this felt very much at the younger end of YA fantasy, so tween/teen readers are almost certainly gonna enjoy this one. If you love more mature/darker themed fantasy, however, then you might not enjoy this nearly as much.

But, it does tackle some pretty interesting themes, such as: self discovery and overcoming fears, love (both romantic and platonic), power and privilege, and the highly relevant reality vs. Illusion; that I feel would be the perfect starting place for further discussions (into some very timely topics.)

Overall, this was a magically satisfying read that fans of lyrical, heartwarming storytelling (or the whimsy of Margaret Rogerson’s An Enchantment of Ravens) should definitely consider checking out.

Also, a huge thank you to Harper360YA for the proof.

Content Warnings

Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi

Go to review page

adventurous 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

4.0

Content Warnings

What Lies Beyond the Veil by Harper L. Woods

Go to review page

challenging dark tense medium-paced

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

2.5

Content Warnings

Finding Jupiter by Kelis Rowe

Go to review page

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad 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? It's complicated

4.0

With gorgeous prose, found poetry and a tender (beautifully moving) exploration of love, grief, identity, friendship and healing— I loved every second of this one and genuinely didn’t want to put this down!

The depiction of first love was incredible and the slow burn build-up, as Ray and Orion get to know one another (and share their inner most thoughts and feelings with each other) felt soo nuanced and realistic.

This was definitely on the deeper side in terms of emotions and did have me crying multiple times — but the message (of hope, healing and resilience) was absolutely worth it!

So, if you love Contemporary YA or coming of age stories, you should definitely consider checking this one out.

I won this copy a while back, so just want to say thanks again to United By Books

Content Warnings

More...

natashaleighton_'s reviews 1048 reviews

natashaleighton_'s reviews
1048 reviews