natashaleighton_'s reviews
1032 reviews

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

Not for the Faint of Heart by Lex Croucher

Go to review page

adventurous emotional 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? Yes

5.0

Hilariously thrilling and utterly heartfelt, Lex Croucher delivers yet another marvellously queer, medieval Rom-com that I didn’t want to end!

Not only did the banter-filled prose have me in stitches, but the emotional complexity and depth in all of our characters was phenomenal! Clem, Baxter, Kit, Morgan, Josie and Mariel all stole my heart with their mischievous antics, moral quandaries and surprisingly deep personal struggles.

I was delighted that we got to explore a little hit beyond our two MCs — with glimpses into the backstories of several supporting characters, who I felt really benefitted from the added context. It was still brief, but really helped to understand Kit, Morgan and even Mariel’s mum a little better.

Taking inspiration from the legend of Robin Hood (and his band of Merry Thieves) we delve headfirst into life amongst the Merry Men after Robin’s retirement and the legacy that his granddaughter, Mariel, has been trying to live up to.

Constantly sidelined by her father and all but ignored by her fellow Captains, it wasn’t difficult to sympathise with Mariel’s frustrations and root for her (and her supportive, found family-esque team) to get the recognition and respect they so rightfully deserved.

Though, I have to admit, it was fellow protagonist /POV character (and kidnapped healer), Clem that really helped cement this as a five star read for me.

Her wit and lighthearted banter kept even the most intense, heartbreaking of scenes from getting too dark. And I loved the opening scene with the fox— it really set the whole tone, and worked as a nice little call back to the animated Disney version of Robin’s story.

The dynamics and romance between Clem and Mariel was wonderfully swoon-worthy too (if you like the only one bed trope then you’re almost guaranteed to love the only one horse scene) and I urge anyone in their sapphic, historical romance era to definitely consider checking this out. Though, as always, do be sure to check the TWs.

Also, a huge thank you to Bloomsbury (and Bloomsbury Creators Circle) for the finished copy.

Content Warnings

Hits Different by Lizzie Huxley-Jones, Tasha Ghouri

Go to review page

emotional funny inspiring 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

This was such a fun, summery read. The romance was really sweet and the disability representation phenomenal!

Cassie was such a loveable character and I enjoyed watching her grow in confidence, accept the support from the people who love her most and embrace her differences instead of trying to hide or minimise them.

I’ve not read many books with a deaf main character, so found Cassie’s experiences with Cochlear implants really interesting and informative. Plus her chemistry with dreamy love interest Levi was absolutely perfect, I couldn’t help but root for them!

I loved soo many of the supporting cast of characters too, particularly Cassie’s bestie (and biggest supporter), Pen who definitely deserves a sequel of their own.

If you’re looking for a quick read to lose yourself in this summer, then you definitely need to check this out.

Content Warnings

Old Wounds by Logan-Ashley Kisner

Go to review page

dark emotional 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

4.5

Old Wounds by Logan-Ashley Kisner Review

As emotionally thought-provoking as it was spine-chilling! Logan Ashley Kisner’s YA Horror debut was a terrifying, rollercoaster of a read that deftly explores gender and trans identity (and highlighting how historically underrepresented the trans and queer community have been in the genre.)

Readers looking for a heartfelt and unflinchingly honest depiction of the trans experience; of resilience, empowerment and a heartfelt journey towards healing — then you’ll definitely want to check this out.

Kisner’s skillful prose was really good! His atmospheric descriptions were brimming with an eerie, skin crawling undertone (encapsulated in the creepy, Midsommar/The Wicker Man-esque side characters) that I felt really upped the sense of danger and intensity of the plot —and made for an unforgettable, edge of your seat reading experience.

You know that mounting sense of dread you feel at the start of a Horror movie, right before the bad stuff starts? Well, if you love this genre, then you should be pleased to know you’ll find plenty of that here.

From the opening scenes, which document the complex bonds and family dynamics that both Erin and Max face, to their differing experiences as trans teens in (a largely unaccepting) small US town — the unease lies soo heavy in the air you’ll be hard pressed not to binge read in its entirety.

But, what I found most impressive was the depth we explore in our POV characters, Erin and Max (two flawed but compelling teens) and the sense of hope that’s woven through the heart of their story.

I don’t think my words can really do this book justice, so I’ll just say if you enjoy Horror Thrillers and have been eager to see more diverse perspectives, then you’ll probably gonna enjoy this one.

However, it does explore some pretty deep subject material (and references real life murders/suicides of trans people) so I do advise checking the CW/TWs beforehand.

Also, a huge thank you to Ayesha at Usborne for the proof.

Content Warnings

Fear the Flames by Olivia Rose Darling

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional 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

Full of danger, betrayal and a reluctant, allies to lovers romance brimming with heat (the banter between our MC, Elowen, and her love interest, Cayden is especially good.) Olivia Rose Darling’s dragon filled debut is not to be missed!

The world-building was intriguing (though not as detailed as I’d like) and the political manoeuvring breathtakingly bloody. I wasn’t expecting it to be as violent as it was, but must admit (having started this after watching latest season of House of The Dragon) I wasn’t mad at it.

The violence and bloody scenes were very descriptive, though made total sense (especially for the lives Elowen and Cayden currently lead) but I still advise readers to check the content warnings before picking up.

That being said, I really liked Elowen who reminded me soo much of Arya and Daenerys from Game of Thrones. Like them she’s determined, resilient and willing to do whatever it takes to defeat her enemies (I.e: her tyrannical father) in order to save her dragons.

Elowen’s magical bond with them (there are five dragons in total) is very “Mother of Dragons” coded, but I was a bit disappointed in how little the dragons actually feature. The first half is mostly just planning the heist to rescue them, and getting all the pieces in place to make it happen. Though, the ending did make up for it (in my opinion) as it was fabulously explosive and full of backstabby surprises.

We do also (briefly) delve into Elowen’s past and the painful experiences life has dealt her; which goes some way in explaining a lot of her morally grey (and ruthlessly questionable) actions. But her banter and scorchingly sexy chemistry with the brooding, bloodthirsty Cayden (Commander of Vareveth-an enemy kingdom of her father’s) was what really kept me hooked.

The intensity between them off the charts incredible, and his devoted, “touch her and you die” energy had me savouring every scene he shared with Elowen. However if you’re not overly fond of your romances packed with tropes then you may not enjoy this nearly as much.

Overall, an enjoyable read with a hint of spice—that fans of romantasy and badass FMCs should definitely consider checking out.

Also a huge thank you to Ellie Pilcher and Zaffre/ Bonnier Books for the proof.

Content Warnings

More...

natashaleighton_'s reviews 1032 reviews

natashaleighton_'s reviews
1032 reviews