natashaleighton_'s reviews
1023 reviews

In a celebration of Taylor Swift’s storytelling prowess through song, 113 Poets take on the task of delving into her vast musical catalogue; and use the emotions/ personal experiences her lyrics evoke, to craft their own works which I found beautifully engaging.

I don’t usually read much poetry (not since my own school days at least) but found myself thoroughly invested and in full analytical detective mode whilst reading. I was utterly transfixed, trying to grasp the glimmers of Swiftian imagery & symbolism to correctly figure out which song each poem is inspired by. 

Did I mention? The poets never outwardly specify which song got their creative juices flowing, so it’s an anthology that will keep readers pondering long after finishing. It’s certainly kept my attention, I keep going back trying to figure out which song inspired each poem.

So, this is definitely a must read (and perfect gift) for Swifties who enjoy analysing and decoding the intricate (nuanced) layers and details hidden in Taylor’s lyrics. 

Also, a huge thank you to Isabelle over at Headline for sending me this gorgeous finished copy. 

Georgia Nicholson meets Lola Steppe in this hilarious, YA Rom-com debut with a strong message about friendship, identity, self discovery and love —that thoroughly stole my heart. 

We follow teen Drama King, Patrick ‘Patch’ Simmons and his misadventures navigating teenage life and the “full proof”plan he’s devised to snag a boyfriend. With overly supportive bestie, Jean, in tow and his mum’s old self help books for guidance. I genuinely couldn’t put this down (or stop laughing!)

I loved Patch, he was a marvellously endearing MC who, despite his impulsive flair for the dramatic, really captures the feelings of chaos (and uncertainty) we all feeling during adolescence. There were also a few moments that really reminded me of Lola Steppe from Confessions of A Teenage Drama Queen which I found absolutely marvellous (despite being a bit of a movie flop it’s always been one of my faves.) 

But it was the friendships and journey Patch takes to being a little less self absorbed and a lot more compassionate (and communicative), to the people who care about him most that really won me over.

Harry Trevaldwyn is a natural when it comes to writing comedic prose, (the pithy one liners would make even Georgia Nicholson green with envy) and was dripping with humour, warmth and relatable teen struggles that I know soo many readers—both the young, and not so young (I refuse to say old) are gonna adore. 

Especially as Patch’s larger than life personality and cringeworthy mishaps brought a lighthearted sense of whimsy (and a good dose of self awareness) to the plot. That, much like Alice Oseman, perfectly encapsulates the modern coming of age journey for Gen-Z teens.
 
The romance was equally as compelling, though I don’t want to delve too much into it. As Patch has two contenders for the role of Boyfriend, and I don’t want to spoil that wonderfully sweet conclusion. Though, I will say I was rooting for his “end game” love interest almost from the start.
 
I also have to give a shout out to Phoebe (little sister to Patch’s new, and rather shy friend Sam) as her energetic (and hilariously unhinged high jinks) definitely rivalled Patch for most chaotic antics performed in a single day. I really hope she makes an appearance in future books (even if just in a background scene) as she was soo entertaining. 

Overall, a heartwarmingly humorous read that Louise Rennison, Becky Albertelli or Teen Rom-Com fans definitely need to consider adding to their TBRs. 

Also, a huge thank you to First Ink for the physical proof.

With exquisitely rich prose and a sizzlingly, slow-burn romance (and I DO mean slow-burn) that’s brimming with emotional intensity— epic romantasy lovers are almost guaranteed to be as obsessed with this as I was. 

The world building and magic system were phenomenally well crafted; intricately weaving the unique magical elements into the high stakes action and political conflict. Which I felt really brought a sense of depth to the world and to our complex, morally grey protagonists (Talasyn and Alaric) both trying to understand where they fit, in the cycle of violence and war that has dominated soo much of their world (and lives.)

But, it was the decisions made, particularly by Talasyn, in the wake of a brutal, colonialist take over which I found the most interesting. Even at its most heartbreakingly poignant, I couldn’t put it down!

Given the darker themes (Death, War & Colonialism) it’s difficult at first to see how Talasyn could ever grow to like Alaric —especially when his presence is a constant reminder of all that she’s lost.

But Thea Guanzon delivers those answers with a confidence that had me thoroughly impressed. Exploring both characters’ (quite emotional) pasts and the complicated inner thought processes, it definitely helped to thaw my initial skepticism, without downplaying the horror (and pain) of the destruction and violence that takes place. 

I was on the edge of my seat (and holding my breath) through pretty much every single one their interactions. That, I’m still not sure if it was the lack of oxygen or the on-page chemistry that had me practically swooning. 

It does end on a cliffhanger (which can always be a bit hit and miss for me) but this one was good—and the sequel is now out, so thankfully I won’t have to wait ages to continue reading.  Though, I do suggest checking the TWs before going into this one. 

A strange yet subtly claustrophobic, dystopian-esque read that, much like the garden itself, grew on me the further in I traversed. 

With rich imagery and a uniquely compelling narrative that oscillates between the hazy, past memories and current lives of elderly sisters, Evelyn and Lily. I was completely fascinated by the eccentric nature of our protagonists and the secluded lives they’ve both led in this post apocalyptic setting. As well as the momentous change that happens when a strange boy finds his way into their walled-off sanctuary. 

I also really enjoyed exploring their complex (slightly dysfunctional) sisterly dynamics, that briefly touches on their reasons for living soo off-grid. It felt very much like Grey Gardens and Flowers In The Attic had a dystopian, cottage-core horror love child — complete with an uncanny gothic undertone that kept me on edge of my seat. 

Trust me, once you start reading this, you’ll probably not be able to put it down, because I certainly couldn’t! And that’s all down to Nick Newman’s skill in capturing the unfiltered rawness of human idiosyncrasies, his understanding of the affect isolation can have on someone’s sense of identity and (of course) his incredibly evocative prose.

I do have to say, it was a bit of a slow start but did pick up at around the 50 page mark — which is when I got completely hooked! 

It’s definitely the kind of book you have to read to truly appreciate (though I do suggest checking trigger warnings beforehand.) 

And, if you’re a literary lover, I highly recommend you consider adding this to your TBR, as I suspect it’s gonna be on quite a few award shortlists next year. 

Also, a huge thank you to Milly at Transworld/Doubleday for the proof. 

Jessica Jones meets These Violent Delights in this Greek myth infused, YA fantasy from debut author Kika Hatzopoulou. I loved how deftly she weaves the complex ties of fate, family and the influence of power —which had me utterly glued to my seat and desperate for more.

The gritty, mystery noir vibes were fabulously strong (if you love the darker tone of Jessica Jones or The Watchmen then you’ll probably really enjoy this.) And along-with our cast of morally ambiguous (but utterly endearing) characters, really helped to bring the richly layered narrative to life. 

I was especially impressed with the depth and emotion explored in protagonist Io, her complicated relationship with sisters (Ava and Thais) as well as her powers as a cutter. And ethical quandaries that seem to spring from those abilities (like altering the personal preferences and emotional ties that can affect someone’s future, or even cut their life short.) 

It’s a dilemma I found endlessly fascinating, especially in comparison to the way other characters we meet choose to use their abilities (lackadaisical and without thought to the damage they may inflict.) 

I also really liked that despite the discrimination she often faces, Io is still one of the most compassionate characters we meet. Willing to risk her own safety (and career) to get justice for people society has deemed “unworthy.” I pretty much rooted for her from the start, openly defying the advice of everyone around her. 

And of course, I have to mention the slow burn intensity of her growing dynamics with gang member, Edei (who she happens to share a fate thread with.) Their interactions were breathtaking and really captured the emotional essence of our characters, much like Homer and Ovid but for a modern audience. 

I don’t want to spoil anything so I won’t go into too much detail, but it was ka pacy, plot twisty and thoroughly immersive read that really delves into the relatable (and very human) struggles that modern Societies as a whole, face (ie: class inequality and racism.) 

Honestly, each consecutive plot reveal had me even more emotionally invested. And THAT Ending?! I will definitely be reading the sequel very soon. 

So, if you love the sound of a gritty mystery, set in a world infused with magic and Greek mythology (and full of morally grey characters just trying to survive the hand they’ve been dealt) — then you really have to consider checking this out. It’s marvellous! 

Also thanks to Penguin UK/ House of YA for the PB copy. 

The sequel to Vanessa Len’s vividly immersive YA fantasy, Only A Monster, was a high stakes and plot twisty delight that I literally couldn’t put down! 

After THAT phenomenal ending in Only A Monster, I had no idea which direction Len was gonna go with the plot. But I definitely hadn’t planned on seeing (former antagonist) Nick again. 

In a slightly reversed character role than before, Nick (who remembers nothing from the previous timeline) teams up with Joan (who remembers everything) to save their current timeline from total devastation. And I kinda loved that she’s just as on edge as I was. 

The tension and suspense achieved in their scenes together, and the attraction they can’t seem to resist was exquisite! As was the complicated web of betrayal that ties them to each other. I must admit though, that I still have a soft spot for Aaron, as (despite his less than friendly reintroduction) his chemistry with Joan still intrigues me.

But the best part had to be Joan’s character growth, which explores a slightly more assertive side of Joan that only made her more fascinating. She’s still torn between her human and monster sides though, and we get a lot of complexity from her inner thoughts as she explores further into the monster world (and her own place within it.) 

I don’t want to say anything else, as I don’t want to spoil the plot, but I will say Vanessa Len had me once again questioning what it truly means to be a hero (or a monster.) 

Overall, a pacy and phenomenally plot twisty (time travel filled) YA fantasy that I absolutely enjoyed. With only one book left in the series (Once A Villain), I’m already counting down the days until it’s released.

A beautifully written and poignant coming of age YA, that draws on author Abigail Johnson’s own experiences as a wheelchair user, weaving a heartfelt story of strength, resilience, love and hope that literally stole my heart! 

The prose was beautiful l and brought Ethan and Rebecca to life so well, I honestly didn’t want it to leave them after that fabulous (and satisfyingly sweet) ending. 

Following their childhood friendship over the years, from their first meeting to their reunion and all the complicated struggles and feelings in between.

And was blown away by just how vividly in-depth our both Ethan and Rebecca were; in their grief, joy, and guilt they felt for every moment of happiness. I don’t often find myself this fully invested in characters, but Ethan and Rebecca felt so real. And watching them overcome some pretty large personal struggles (which had me sobbing quite a few times) made me feel soo proud of them. 

Rebecca’s story was especially impactful as she adjusts to life in a wheelchair after a car accident (that also resulted in the death of her father) and the grief she still endures in losing him. 

Her relationship with her mother was a little fraught too and I really wanted to give her soo many hugs after every interaction. But she does eventually open up and finally communicate her feelings — which again, did have me sobbing uncontrollably. 

Ethan’s experiences as an only child of a parent struggling with addiction (and being constantly uprooted) was just as poignant, and Johnson’s sensitive approach to the subject material incredibly well done. 

If you love books that explore complex issues alongside the teen angst and romance, or want something that’s guaranteed to hit you in the feels, then you’re gonna want to add this to your TBRs ASAP! 

Also a huge thank you to Harper360YA for the proof. 

Loosely inspired by Penelope’s twelve hanged maids immortalised in The Odyssey. Sarah Underwood’s Greek myth-infused debut was a surprisingly relevant and pacy, character driven read that brings female rage and resilience to the forefront of the narrative. 

Not a retelling as such, but a creative reinterpretation (that uses the original as a starting point), I had been a little nervous to start this one as I’d seen a few mixed reviews. But I’m soo glad I finally did, as I really enjoyed it! 

The prose was wonderfully immersive, and I enjoyed delving into the lives (and alternating perspectives) of our three protagonists — all of whom are trying to break the Curse that has plagued Ithaca for centuries. It can get angsty at, but I really enjoyed that tension. 

Leto-compassionate, fiercely determined and strong willed, is the first character we meet and she was incredible! It’s her rage and need for vengeance that initially propels the plot, but her dynamics with fellow hanged maid Melantho, Prince Matthias and her endearing capacity for empathy (despite all she’s endured), is what really kept me invested. 

Melantho (along with Leto) were my absolute favourite characters and I loved seeing their growing relationship develop. Their past experiences and emotional complexity was phenomenal. And really focuses on the difficult choices that they must make —in a world that sees them (and other women like them) as easily replaceable/ disposable. 

Matthias, was an interesting and somewhat endearing character too, but his complicity in the hangings (which he had to oversee) and slow start in actively trying to break the curse, meant I did kind of dislike him at the start. He does eventually begin to make up for it as the story unfolds, but I feel his character not being as developed as Leto and Melantho did hinder him a little. 

Nevertheless, his actions speak louder than any words ever could, and had me absolutely sobbing by the end. 

Given the current climate (and attacks on women’s personal freedoms) worldwide, this felt like a very relevant and topical read. In which the previously silenced voices of women (subjected, objectified or victimised) can use their new power to finally get justice for all the pain they (and others like them) have suffered. 

Overall, a perfect introduction to Greek Mythology for readers eager for more female centric reimaginings. Especially, if they’re already fans of Madeline Miller or Jennifer Saint. 

Also, thank you to Electric Monkey books for the PB copy. 

This biographical exploration of Taylor Swift’s career, which delves into the genre defying pop star’s own Mythos and meteoric rise to fame (via her songs and live performances), is an absolute must read for Swifties.

Written by Rollingstone Journalist, Rob Sheffield (who has documented her career from the very start), we explore his personal experiences, anecdotes and music analysis of Taylor’s work. Which is just as much an exploration into his own love and personal history with Swift’s music as it is about Swift herself. 

As someone who’s been a fan of Taylor since I was 15 (I’m 31 now), I found this a wonderfully nostalgic trip through her career (and music repertoire), that really gave me a new appreciation for the unique way she has handled her career. In an industry that has historically loved to put a shelf life on female pop stars, I loved seeing the ways Taylor has “broken” the rules and paved the way for a new whole generation of starlets (who have begun to sweep the charts themselves.)

The fact that Rob Sheffield writes so passionately and enthusiastically about Taylor’s music makes this all the more enjoyable. And, with comparisons and references as eclectic as Emily Dickinson, Madonna and (surprising of all) Morrissey —there’s a lot of interesting tidbits and music history for fans to consume. 

Spanning every era of Taylor’s music career, the inspiration that may have inspired her songs and the musical greats that came before. This was a fun and rather nostalgic read that Swifties (or the loved ones of a Swiftie) should definitely consider picking up.

And, a huge thank you to Rachel Quin and HQ/ HarperCollins UK for the finished copy.