natashaleighton_'s reviews
1030 reviews

A Pirate's Life for Tea by Rebecca Thorne

adventurous funny lighthearted 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? No

5.0

High seas shenanigans, piratical puns, and matchmaking schemes abound in this marvellously entertaining follow up to Rebecca Thorne’s sapphic cosy fantasy, Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea.

I adored the first book in this series, so was beyond thrilled for the to finally revisit my favourite bookstore/ teashop owners, Kianthe and Reyna. As they embark on an exciting new mission to track down the three stolen dragon eggs and return them to their rightful home.

Like the perfect Tea blend Thorne infuses the warm and cosy atmosphere of Legends & Lattes, with the hilariously endearing humour (and antics) of Our Flag Means Death—for a satisfyingly swashbuckling (and romantic) read that I won’t be forgetting any time soon!

Kianthe and Reyna were still a delight to explore (thanks in part to the character driven focus of the plot) and I loved seeing how far their relationship and dynamics have come since they first set foot in Tawney. Reyna really comes into her own, with a less weary demeanour, and far more confident outlook that I loved.

Kianthe, our pun-loving ball of elemental magic was fabulous too! Seeing her in action as the Arcandor, and the authority and power she wields was fascinating especially as well delve (very briefly) into her past and childhood insecurities surrounding her magic.

The supporting cast were incredible too, and filled with some new and very entertaining new faces. Including constable,Bobbie and her childhood bestie turned outlaw, Serina (who find themselves at the centre of Reyna and Kianthe’s matchmaking schemes.) We also get a cameo from Kianthe’s favourite pirate captain, The Dread Pirate Dreggs, whose fun loving nature really gave Kianthe competition for most loveably chaotic.

But of course, it was baby griffon, Ponder and her sassy father, Visk that really stole the show for me. I loved every scene they were in and CANNOT wait to see what other mischief Ponder gets up to in the next book (called Tea You at the Altar, which, if the UK release doesn’t change, will come out on my birthday)

Overall, a satisfyingly cosy, pirate filled adventure that has me already eager to get my hands on the next book.

Also, a huge thank you to Olivia and Pan Macmillan/ Tor Books for the finished copy.

Content Warnings

Swordcrossed by Freya Marske

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adventurous emotional 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

4.0

As a huge fan of The Last Binding series, Swordcrossed has been on my list of most anticipated reads since Freya Marske shared the premise at an online Q&A last year. And having finally read it, I can confirm it’s just as fun, steamy and dazzlingly cosy as I hoped it would be.

Marske’s prose was once again vividly detailed and dripping with intrigue, yet it was her heartfelt, character driven narrative (and a certain playfully witty, cinnamon roll MC) that really made this a standout read for me.

Our first POV character, Matti, was such a kindhearted (though anxious) protagonist. But his willingness to put everyone else first, even at the expense of his own happiness (or comfort) was soo incredibly endearing. Plus his interactions with the roguishly charming, Luca (our second POV character) were deliciously swoon-worthy and gave Robin and Edwin (from The Last Binding) some pretty strong competition in the slow burn relationship stakes.

Luca, in all his Labrador-esque (and cinnamon roll) glory, completely stole my heart with all his antics. His laissez faire demeanour and outlook on life contrasted so well with Matti’s self imposed reticence (which we see Luca slowly dismantle) but also served to hide some of his own insecurities (primarily his struggle with Dyscalculia.)

I really liked that Marske explored both neurodiversity and mental health in her protagonists; adding a layer of depth and dimension to Matti and Luca’s experiences that only made me love them more.

The inclusion also highlighted just how necessary representation is in raising awareness, amplifying voices and combating stigma surrounding neurodivergence, and the effects that a lack of support can have on people’s mental health. The LGBTQ+ rep was phenomenal as well and just one of many reasons Marske has quickly become one of my favourite authors.

I don’t want to say too much else for fear of spoiling the plot, but the supporting cast (including Matti’s sister, Maya and his betrothed, Sophia) were wonderfully well written too. I’m not sure if this is standalone or not, but I really hope we get the chance to see more of them as they were both soo delightfully entertaining.

The pacing was a bit slower than anticipated, but did made up for it with its witty banter and engaging characters. Definitely a worthwhile read for slow burn, historical romance lovers or fans of Freya Marske’s previous books.

Also a huge thank you to BookBreak / Tor for the proof.

Content Warnings

Graphic: Panic attacks/disorders and Sexual content

Moderate: Cursing, Violence, and Blood

Minor: Deadnaming, Stalking, and Alcohol

Bridgerton meets The Bodyguard (by way of Georgette Heyer) in this low stakes and sizzlingly romantic, fantasy of manners. Which follows a dutiful heir and the charming, con-man-turned-swordsman he hires to serve as best man at his arranged wedding. As a huge fan of The Last Binding series, Swordcrossed has been on my list of most anticipated reads since Freya Marske shared the premise at an online Q&A last year. And having finally read it, I can confirm it’s just as fun, steamy and dazzlingly cosy as I hoped it would be. Marske’s prose was once again vividly detailed and dripping with intrigue, yet it was her heartfelt, character driven narrative (and a certain playfully witty, cinnamon roll MC) that really made this a standout read for me. Our first POV character, Matti, was such a kindhearted (though anxious) protagonist. But his willingness to put everyone else first, even at the expense of his own happiness (or comfort) was soo incredibly endearing. Plus his interactions with the roguishly charming, Luca (our second POV character) were deliciously swoon-worthy and gave Robin and Edwin (from The Last Binding) some pretty strong competition in the slow burn relationship stakes. Luca, in all his Labrador-esque (and cinnamon roll) glory, completely stole my heart with all his antics. His laissez faire demeanour and outlook on life contrasted so well with Matti’s self imposed reticence (which we see Luca slowly dismantle) but also served to hide some of his own insecurities (primarily his struggle with Dyscalculia.) I really liked that Marske explored both neurodiversity and mental health in her protagonists; adding a layer of depth and dimension to Matti and Luca’s experiences that only made me love them more. The inclusion also highlighted just how necessary representation is in raising awareness, amplifying voices and combating stigma surrounding neurodivergence, and the effects that a lack of support can have on people’s mental health. The LGBTQ+ rep was phenomenal as well and just one of many reasons Marske has quickly become one of my favourite authors. I don’t want to say too much else for fear of spoiling the plot, but the supporting cast (including Matti’s sister, Maya and his betrothed, Sophia) were wonderfully well written too. I’m not sure if this is standalone or not, but I really hope we get the chance to see more of them as they were both soo delightfully entertaining. The pacing was a bit slower than anticipated, but did made up for it with its witty banter and engaging characters. Definitely a worthwhile read for slow burn, historical romance lovers or fans of Freya Marske’s previous books. Also a huge thank you to BookBreak/Tor for the proof.

Death at Morning House by Maureen Johnson

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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

4.5

A suspenseful and deliciously plot twisty YA Mystery, with an endearingly quirky protagonist I thoroughly enjoyed. Arm chair detectives and Agatha Christie fans (who like to be kept on their toes) definitely need to consider adding this to their TBRs.

Told through two interwoven timelines, that alternates between the POVs of Morning House’s original inhabitants and our present day protagonist, Marlowe. Maureen Johnson cleverly explores two edge-of-your-seat mysteries (occurring almost a century apart) and the complicated bonds of friendships, relationships and family that I found unputdownable.

It was a bit slow to start, but the attention to detail and dearth of clues paired with those atmospheric visuals and a foreboding sense of unease more than made up for it. The pacing did pick up at around 100 page mark and the twists and secrets, once they started, just kept coming!

I really loved Marlowe, who was such a relatable and realistic teenage character. She’s a little awkward (as were most of us at that age) but came off very endearing, that I couldn’t help but want to see her thrive. And to finally flirt/date without it leading to property damage.

There’s a bit of a romance sub plot that I really enjoyed, Marlowe’s dynamics and blossoming friendship with the sharply witty and cynical, Riki was really good and I honestly could read an entire series of these two just attempting to solve crimes (Cold Case style.)

In fact, I liked quite a lot of the supporting cast, who were all intriguing in different ways. With secrets and personal motivations that we learn very little about, I was immediately suspicious of all of them! And, despite my best efforts (and multiple guesses) I wasn’t able to correctly work out either of the big mysteries we encounter, which pleasantly surprised me. I’m definitely gonna have to reread this to fully digest all the little details I missed the first time around.

Overall, an unputdownable and plot twisty, standalone mystery that kept me utterly hooked until the very last page. I can totally see why Johnson is described as the Queen of Mystery — and will be adding all of her back list titles to my TBR as soon as possible.

Also, a huge thank you to Nina Douglas and Harper360YA for the (signed and personalised!) finished copy.

Content Warnings

The Kiss of the Nightingale by Adi Denner

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adventurous dark emotional mysterious medium-paced

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

4.0

A sumptuously enchanting, historical romantasy that takes us into an opulent, Phantom of The Opera- esque world where magic, betrayal and sacrifice take centre stage.

I loved every second of this! Adi Denner’s atmospheric prose and lush attention to detail (especially when it came to the fashion) was utterly addictive. And, combined with the intriguing, gem based magic system; created an almost cinematic experience that had me glued to my seat.

The world-building wasn’t nearly as in depth as I would’ve liked, but I feel the characters more than made up for it in their a nuanced and depth filled portrayals. Cleodora, our morally grey protagonist and sole POV was probably my favourite as I really enjoyed her nuanced and emotional journey.

Struggling to keep her family’s dressmaking business going (and take care of her ill sister) leads her into the employ of the mysterious Lady Sibille (Dahlia)— who gifts her the (stolen) talent of singing in order to infiltrate the Opera, and steal the Talent of one of it’s most important Patrons. The Vicomte Lenoir.

The tragic complexity of Cleo’s circumstances and her conflicting feelings surrounding this new life really endeared me to her, especially her drive to protect her sister. But I did enjoy her more morally dubious choices, as it really highlighted how rigid class structures, inequality and widespread poverty can force literally anyone into unsavoury (or illegal) situations (in the desperate need to survive.)

The same for several of the other characters we meet (Lirone, Dahlia, Veronique) who’s actions, though not necessarily right, did raise some interesting thoughts around morality and ethics that I hadn’t really considered before.

I really enjoyed the emotionally intense, love triangle-esque romance we explore between Cleo, Dahlia and Nuriel (the Vicomte.) Which, like Phantom of the Opera has an underlying sense of danger, urgency (and lust) that I found incredibly intoxicating —there’s some incredible, chemistry laden scenes that romantasy fans will definitely appreciate too. But they don’t overpower the plot, so if you’re new to the genre (or aren’t as big a fan of romance) I think you’ll still enjoy it.

Overall, an immersive, magical and pacy debut that kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page.

Also, a huge thank you to Emily over at Dialogue Books for the stunning proof.

Content Warnings

Mindwalker by Kate Dylan

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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natashaleighton_'s reviews 1030 reviews

natashaleighton_'s reviews
1030 reviews