Book Review: Rose of Jericho by Alex Grecian

What would happen if the dead don't seem to stay dead? They walk, talk, and more. They aren't zombies. There's no craving to eat flesh. How did they get this way and is there a way to restore the normal order of things? It's not enough that the house they've bought is very haunted. Sadie Grace, Rose Nettles, and Rabbit find themselves confronted with this situation when they move to the small town of Ascension, Massachusetts. They are trying to keep a low profile while they investigate. And yet as the dead walk around, chaos ensues.

You might be able to read this as a standalone, but it would be better to go back and start with Red Rabbit where the characters are first encountered. This gives you more of a background as to what they are like and what they are capable of doing and how they've changed in the 10 yrs between Red Rabbit and Rose of Jericho.

I found the way that the author handled the idea of death ceasing to be interesting. He examines not only what happens to the dead physically, but how it affects their thoughts and emotions. And the living get to weigh in on how they feel about what is going on.

I gave this book five stars. It was a good read. There are some interesting characters to go with the interesting predicament. If you've read Red Rabbit and enjoyed it, this is a must read. If the plot sounds interesting to you, then you should give it a try. It's well-written.

I borrowed my copy from the library.

Rose of Jericho by Alex Grecian was released March 11th, 2025 from Tor Nightfire.

Book Review: Wizard of Most Wicked Ways by Charlie N. Holmberg

 

From the publisher:

Whimbrel House is changing. Merritt and Hulda are raising a family. Owein has signed a marriage contract with the magically compatible Lady Cora, a heavyweight of British nobility who’s an ocean away. And the lovely shape-shifting druid Fallon makes a distractingly fetching friend for Owein. But another change is in the air, and this time it’s something wicked.

The greatest wizard of the millennium, Silas Hogwood, is back—after five years dead. New body, same foul scent, and driven by madness and revenge. Owein, fearing he isn’t strong enough to fend off Silas, seeks Cora’s help and influence in England. Alarms ringing, Queen Victoria dispatches her League of Magicians, including her personal necromancer, to aid in Owein’s defense.

As magic, both good and evil, converges on Blaugdone Island, Owein realizes how harrowing the forces against them are. Combating them will require some digging—literally—for half-formed secrets of magic Hulda doesn’t want him to have. But no promise, lock, or government red tape will keep Owein from doing what’s necessary to protect those he loves. One way or another, Silas will only take Whimbrel House over Owein’s third dead body.

Wizard of Most Wicked Ways by Charlie N. Holmberg is the 4th book in the Whimbrel House series. It was released March 4, 2025 from 47North.

My Thoughts: I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars.

It began slowly, but that gave time for showing character growth, especially in Owein. I did find it a little agonizing because I like the characters a lot and knew bad things were in store for them. In his previous appearances, Silas seemed to be motivated solely by greed. Now he still seems greedy, but also like he's losing his sanity. Once the action started, things moved along at a better pace. 

This should not be read as a standalone. There are references to earlier books that would be better understood if the previous volumes have been read. Plus, only then can you really appreciate the changes in the characters.

I did get a little teary near the end of the book. To me, that means it was well-written and the characters are mostly sympathetic. Also, I thought it was the last book in the series, but it appears there will be at least one more.

I would recommend this book to others who've read the series. And I would recommend the series to those who enjoy historical fantasy. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This did not affect my opinions nor my review.

Book Review: Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost Tales by Heather Fawcett

 

From the publisher:

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • The third installment in the heartwarming and enchanting Emily Wilde series, about a curmudgeonly scholar of folklore and the fae prince she loves

Emily Wilde has spent her life studying faeries. A renowned dryadologist, she has documented hundreds of species of Folk in her Encyclopaedia of Faeries. Now she is about to embark on her most dangerous academic project yet: studying the inner workings of a faerie realm—as its queen.

Along with her former academic rival—now fiancé—the dashing and mercurial Wendell Bambleby, Emily is immediately thrust into the deadly intrigues of Faerie as the two of them seize the throne of Wendell’s long-lost kingdom, which Emily finds a beautiful nightmare filled with scholarly treasures.

Emily has been obsessed with faerie stories her entire life, but at first she feels as ill-suited to Faerie as she did to the mortal world: How can an unassuming scholar such as herself pass for a queen? Yet there is little time to settle in, for Wendell’s murderous stepmother has placed a deadly curse upon the land before vanishing without a trace. It will take all of Wendell’s magic—and Emily’s knowledge of stories—to unravel the mystery before they lose everything they hold dear.

Emily Wlde's Compendium of Lost Tales by Heather Fawcett was released February 11th, 2025 from Del Rey.

My Thoughts: In this third book in the series, the story is told from Emily's point of view. We see her worries and her joys as she and Wendell claim his throne in Faerie. This is the perfect point of view for the book considering it is pretty much Emily and her adventures for a good portion of the book. Nothing wrong with that. 

Former Queen Arna has put a curse on the land. It's harming groves of trees and killing both plants and Folk that happen to be within the area it strikes. Together Wendell and Emily must find a cure for the blight and a suitable punishment for the former Queen.

Wendell's assuming the throne and having to deal with such problems allows us to see how far he's grown since meeting Emily. And Emily consults her books to find the best path forward that will yield the best results.

There is some travelling around the kingdom with Emily and Wendell. Once the problem escalates though, it's mostly Emily and ever-faithful Shadow on the road together. I think she shows great bravery and strength of character.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was a little slow in places, but it didn't stop me from wanting to know what was going to happen next. I would recommend reading the books in the series in order to get the most out of this one. There are previous characters who have parts in this book. And there are some references to previous adventures. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy a good fantasy based on the Folk. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my review. All opinions therein are my own.

Book Review: At the Bottom of the Garden by Camilla Bruce

 

From the publisher:

A murderess becomes the guardian of two very unusual girls in this mesmerizing gothic novel from acclaimed author Camilla Bruce.

Clara Woods is a killer—and perfectly fine with it, too. So what if she takes a couple of lives to make her own a little bit better? At the bottom of her garden is a flower bed, long overgrown, where her late husband rests in peace—or so she’s always thought.

Then the girls arrive.

Lily and Violet are her nieces, recently orphaned after their affluent parents died on an ill-fated anniversary trip. In accordance with their parents’ will, the sisters are to go to their closest relative—who happens to be Clara. Despite having no interest in children, Clara agrees to take them, hoping to get her hands on some of the girls’ assets—not only to bolster her dwindling fortune but also to establish what she hopes will be her legacy: a line of diamond jewelry.

There’s only one problem. Violet can see the dead man at the bottom of the garden. She can see all of Clara’s ghosts . . . and call them back into existence. Soon Clara is plagued by her victims and at war with the gifted girls in her care. Lily and Violet have become a liability—and they know far more than they should.

My thoughts: I enjoyed the book. I felt like there was a lot to like about the story. It's definitely a gothic tale from the moment that Aunt Clara appears. We don't see who is haunting Clara though until the girls appear on the scene. And not too long after that, it's a question of if the ghosts are only going to haunt Clara or if they will go after the girls and the housekeeper as well.

The setting of the spooky house is classic gothic. The patchy front steps, the smallish rooms that the girls inhabit, the taxidermied animals at every turn all work together to make it a gothic setting.

The chapters are told from the differing perspectives of Clara, Violet (the youngest), and Lily (Violet's slightly older sister.) Early on, some of the scariest material comes from Violet's perspective since she is the only one who can see the dead at that point. It's not that long afterwards that they can all see the ghosts who seem to take a particular delight in haunting Clara.

Clara is a horrifying human being. A murderess who has come into guardianship of her nieces with hopes to get her mitts on their money. The longer the book goes on, the more horrifying she becomes. If this were fairy tale, she would easily be the wicked witch or the evil stepmother.

Generally speaking, this is an enjoyable, horrifying, gothic story. I was surprised that Violet had little fear of the ghosts after their conversion. And there is a little bit of a lull mid book when Aunt Clara takes the girls on a road trip. The lull doesn't last long though. And sets in motion the last part of the book.

Overall I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars. I really liked this gothic tale. If you enjoy gothic literature, this would be a good book for you. This is the first book I've read by Camilla Bruce, but it won't be my last.

At the Bottom of the Garden by Camilla Bruce was released Tuesday January 28th, 2025 from Del Rey.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my opinion.

Book Review: Candle and Crow by Kevin Hearne

 

From the publisher:

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Iron Druid Chronicles comes the final book in the “action-packed, enchantingly fun” (Booklist) Ink & Sigil series, as an ink-slinging wizard pursues the answer to a very personal mystery: Who cast a pair of curses on his head?

Al MacBharrais has a most unusual job: He’s a practitioner of ink-and-sigil magic, tasked with keeping order among the gods and monsters that dwell hidden in the human world. But there’s one supernatural mystery he’s never been able to solve: Years ago, someone cast twin curses on him that killed off his apprentices and drove away loved ones who heard him speak, leaving him bereft and isolated. 

But he’s not quite alone: As Al works to solve this mystery, his friends draw him into their own eccentric dramas. Buck Foi the hobgoblin has been pondering his own legacy—and has a plan for a daring shenanigan that will make him the most celebrated hobgoblin of all. Nadia, goth queen and battle seer, is creating her own cult around a god who loves whisky and cheese. 

And the Morrigan, a former Irish death goddess, has decided she wants not only to live as an ordinary woman but also to face the most perilous challenge of the mortal world: online dating. 

Meanwhile, Al crosses paths with old friends and new—including some beloved Druids and their very good dogs—in his globe-trotting quest to solve the mystery of his curses. But he’s pulled in so many different directions by his colleagues, a suspicious detective, and the whims of destructive gods that Al begins to wonder: Will he ever find time to write his own happy ending?

My thoughts: This was a good wrap up for the trilogy. Story threads for Al, Buck Foi, Nadia, the Morrigan, and Gladys-who-has-seen-some-shite are drawn to conclusions. I felt that the endings were open-ended enough that if the author decides to revisit any of the characters, say for a short story, he will have plenty to write about.

I gave this book 5 stars. It's well-written. It's a good conclusion for the trilogy. Things happen at a good pace. My only note is that I felt there wasn't enough foreshadowing about who is responsible for the curses on Al. If you enjoyed the first two books in this trilogy, this is a must read. If you enjoyed the Iron Druid books, you will most likely enjoy this trilogy as well. And the trilogy would make a good Christmas present for your fan of urban fantasy.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This did not affect my review. 

Book Review: Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret by Benjamin Stevenson

 

From the publisher:

Benjamin Stevenson returns with a Christmas addition to his bestselling, “deviously good fun” (Nita Prose), Ernest Cunningham mysteries. Unwrap all the Christmas staples: presents, family, an impossible murder or two, and a deadly advent calendar of clues. If Knives Out and The Thursday Murder Club kissed under the mistletoe.

My name’s Ernest Cunningham. I used to be a fan of reading Golden Age murder mysteries, until I found myself with a haphazard career getting stuck in the middle of real-life ones. I’d hoped, this Christmas, that any self-respecting murderer would kick their feet up and take it easy over the holidays. I was wrong.

So here I am, backstage at the show of world-famous magician Rylan Blaze, whose benefactor has just been murdered. My suspects are all professional tricksters: masters of the art of misdirection.

THE MAGICIAN, THE ASSISTANT, THE EXECUTIVE, THE HYPNOTIST, THE IDENTICAL TWIN, THE COUNSELLOR,  THE TECH. 

My clues are even more abstract: A suspect covered in blood, without a memory of how it got there. A murder committed without setting foot inside the room where it happens. And an advent calendar. Because, you know, it’s Christmas.

If I can see through the illusions, I know I can solve it.

After all, a good murder is just like a magic trick, isn’t it?

Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret was released October 22, 2024 from Mariner Books.

My thoughts: Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret by Benjamin Stevenson is the third book in the Ernest Cunningham mysteries. Slightly shorter than the first two, it makes a wonderful addition to the series.

This time around it's Ernest's ex-wife calling from jail that sets everything in motion. At this point there has been one murder. Before the end of the book there will be two for the price of one.

Ern continues to divulge information in such a way that he maintains that the reader has all the information necessary to solve the crime. It's fun when he breaks the fourth wall to remind us of this and sometimes also of clues. I also liked how the author uses the Advent Calendar and Secret Santa motifs to further the plot.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. The mysteries are good and well-written. Using the Advent Calendar to organize the book is interesting and different. I agree with Ernest that this would make a good holiday read. If you've enjoyed the other books in the series, or just enjoy holiday themed mysteries, this could be a good book for you.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my opinion.

Book Review: The Sullivan's Island Supper Club by Susan M. Boyer

 

From the publisher:

From the bestselling author of the award-winning novel Big Trouble on Sullivan’s Island comes a captivating new tale that explores the deep ties of friendship, family, and community—and the hidden cracks that can fracture even our strongest connections.

Welcome to Sullivan’s Island, an idyllic beachside town just outside Charleston, South Carolina. This serene, unspoiled sanctuary offers tourists a picturesque taste of the lush Lowcountry while the locals enjoy a laid-back, small-town lifestyle. Amidst an eclectic mix of newcomers and natives, lifelong resident and social maven Tallulah Wentworth’s legendary monthly dinners have united an unlikely group of women into the very best of friends.

To outsiders, this sunny, seaside haven is nothing short of paradise, but the residents of this beachside hamlet know that it harbors its share of troubles. Everyone has an opinion about the most hotly contested local issue—how to manage the maritime forest that’s sprung up on accreted land—and civility is quickly running out at both town council meetings and in online forums.

When a neighborhood meet-and-greet devolves into violence, several pillars of the community are led away in handcuffs. By the next morning, a very real, very dead body is the newest addition to Sarabeth Boone’s spooky Halloween graveyard display. But who could possibly be responsible for such a heinous act?

Did someone finally snap over the mounting tension between conservationists and cutters? Or was this a premeditated act perpetrated by an opportunistic killer masquerading as a trustworthy friend and neighbor?

The Sullivan’s Island Supper Club weaves a tale of mystery, friendship, and love—new love, old love, and second-chance love. Discover the lengths these women will go to protect each other and uncover the truth, even when it shatters the delicate balance of their seemingly perfect lives.

With her uniquely Southern voice, Susan M. Boyer delivers a fast-paced follow-up to the reader-favorite Big Trouble on Sullivan’s Island. Perfect for fans of strong Southern women, twisting tales, and the breathtaking Carolina coast, this charming whodunnit mystery marries scandal and sisterhood for the ultimate reading treat.

The Sullivan''s Island Supper Club was released September 17th, 2024 from Stella Maris Books.

My thoughts:

This is an interesting book. We're made aware of the murder up front, but not who the victim is. The bulk of the book after that is a big flashback of events leading up to the discovery of the body. 

The chapters are told from different characters points of view. We get to know pretty much all of the guests at the Sullivan's Island Supper club as well as why it was formed. I was a little confused at first, but each chapter is clearly marked as to when the events in it took place as well as whose eyes they are being seen through. And the  female characters are all strong women. I think my favorite though is Sarabeth Boone who was hosting a party with her husband Tucker the night before the body was found in her front yard.

It is a mystery, but it seems to me that it is told more as a story about the women and the community they inhabit. After the initial discovery of the body, we are left guessing as to who the victim and the killer might be as we get to know the group. I was able to guess who the victim was, but I was a little surprised at who the killer was.

Overall I give this book 5 stars out of 5 stars. It's well written. And the way the mystery is handled is different from any mystery book I've read lately. The characters are interesting. There is one scene with an attempted suicide, so be aware if this is a trigger for you. If you enjoyed the first book in the series, then you will like this one. And if you are a reader who likes to read about strong southern women, then this would be a good book for you. I look forward to reading more in this series.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This did not affect my opinion. My review is freely given and all my own ideas.

Book Review: Boy of Chaotic Making by Charlie N. Holmberg

 

Once there was a dog who'd been a house who'd been a boy. Owein could remember that. He was now a mixed terrier breed dog. He communicated with his many greats nephew via magic. Merritt Fernsby loved Owein (his many greats uncle). And he enjoyed talking with him, but one of the consequences of doing so was a temporary loss of his voice depending on how long they'd been talking.

Hulda Larkin, Merritt's fiancee, loved Owein too. So it was the three of them, after discussion, who decided to see exactly what the Queen of England had in mind when she said she was interested in Owein. And especially what she had in mind when she said that they could find Owein a human body and transfer him into it and marry him into the royal family. Merritt and Owein travel to London to find out exactly what the deal is. Adventure ensues.

The characters in the book are well done, especially Merritt, Owein, and Hulda.I liked them for who they were on the page and for the way they interact with one another.

The world building is consistent with the first two books in the Whimbrel House series. I like that for every kind of magic used there is a natural sort of reaction. For example, Merritt's voice is affected when he converses mentally with Owein.

In general, the plotting and writing is well done. It's better to have read the first two books before you read this one. The story moves along at a good pace. And I was a little surprised at the culprit in the mystery.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. It's well written and entertaining. If you like historic fantasy set in a slightly different world from ours, then you would most likely enjoy this book and series. It appears there is a book 4 on the horizon. I look forward to it.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my opinions or review.

Book Review: The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett

 

As far as murders go, making a tree spontaneously grow out of someone killing them instantly is pretty unique. This is exactly what happens to an Imperial officer as the inciting event in this mystery.

Ana Dolabra along with her assistant Dinios Kol are assigned to investigate. Din acts as Ana's eyes and ears as he has been modified as an engraver to have a perfect memory. Ana seldom leaves home, so the accuracy of Din's evidence gathered and interviews are of utmost importance. In addition to seldom leaving her home, Ana wears a blindfold most of the time and swears like a sailor. The swearing somewhat scandalizes Din, but Ana can get away with a lot because of how well her mind works while solving a case. 

I loved both Ana and Din.They work so well together. We get to know Din a little more though since the story is told through his eyes.

The world building is excellent. The Empire reminds me a little of a medieval walled city in structure. The further away from the wall you get, the more affluent you are. And in this case, the further away from the wall you get, the safer you are from the leviathans who try and breach the wall. So in addition to working on solving the mystery, Ana and Din must be aware of the dangers lurking.

Overall this is a very well written book. I gave it 5 stars out of 5. It has a fascinating mystery, excellent world building, and interesting characters. And as it is book one in a series, I look forward to reading more about Ana and Din. I'd recommend this book to people who enjoy a good fantasy as well as those who enjoy a good mystery in a fantasy setting.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my opinion.

The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett was published February 6th, 2024 by Del Rey. It is book one in the Shadow of the Leviathan series.

Book Review: Red Rabbit by Alex Grecian

 

From the publisher:

A ragtag posse must hunt down a witch through a wild west beset by demons and ghosts—where death is always just around the bend—in this new supernatural horror by bestselling author Alex Grecian.

Sadie Grace is wanted for witchcraft, dead (or alive). And every hired gun in Kansas is out to collect the bounty on her head, including bona fide witch hunter Old Tom and his mysterious, mute ward, Rabbit.

On the road to Burden County, they’re joined by two vagabond cowboys with a strong sense of adventure – but no sense of purpose – and a recently widowed schoolteacher with nothing left to lose. As their posse grows, so too does the danger.

Racing along the drought-stricken plains in a stolen red stagecoach, they encounter monsters more wicked than witches lurking along the dusty trail. But the crew is determined to get that bounty, or die trying.

Written with the devilish cadence of Stephen Graham Jones and the pulse-pounding brutality of Nick Cutter, Red Rabbit is an epic adventure of luck and misfortune.

Red Rabbit by Alex Grecian is expected out September 19th 2023 from Tor Nightfire.

My Thoughts:

I gave Red Rabbit 5 out of 5 stars. I really enjoyed reading it. If weird westerns is your thing, then this would be a good book for you. Also if you enjoy horror that just happens to be set in the old west, you would probably enjoy this book as well. 

Old Tom and his mute ward Rabbit are on their way to catch a witch. The group grows first by 2 cowboys, then the recently widowed woman, and a ghost that none of them seem to know is there. So, you have a large group of characters going on a trip in this book, not to mention the witch herself.The group encounters horrors along the way - obstacles in their paths on the way to the witch. I liked the little group that tagged along with Old Tom basically because they had nothing better to do. I especially liked the widow woman and that the men she traveled with treated her well.

This book seemed pretty much to be a quest story. Generally, it's well-paced. Everyone had their reasons for being part of the group. And when their first goal seemed to fall through, they find another goal and keep going.

It's a well-written horror/adventure story. The way it ends leaves it open to sequels without being a cliffhanger. I definitely recommend this book if you like weird westerns or horror quest stories.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my opinion.

Book Review: Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano

 

From the publisher:

FINLAY DONOVAN IS KILLING IT . . . except, she’s really not. The new book she promised her literary agent isn’t written, her ex-husband fired the nanny without telling her, and this morning she had to send her four-year-old to school with hair duct-taped to her head.

When Finlay’s overheard discussing the plot of her new novel with her agent over lunch, she’s mistaken for a contract killer and inadvertently accepts an offer to dispose of a problem husband in order to make ends meet . . . and she soon discovers that crime in real life is a lot more difficult than its fictional counterpart.

Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano was released February 2, 2021 from Minotaur Books. It is the first in the Finlay Donovan series. There are currently 3 books in the series with a fourth planned for release in March of 2024.

My Thoughts:

Finlay Donovan is stretched thin trying to care for her children and write a book. And she's not making ends meet. Her soon to be ex-husband Steven pays the electric only because his children are living there. In the middle of a contentious divorce, they are barely civil to each other while arguing custody issues. Finlay Donovan is a sympathetic character. Even more so after the morning she has at the beginning of the book. Duct tape doesn't fasten hair back on a child very well.

I enjoyed the outrageousness of the plot. I could see that possibly happening in real life. The whole thing is a humorous mystery. There is banter between parents, conversations with the nanny, and words out of the mouths of babes (Are you dating him, Mommy?)

I liked the twisted plot lines from the beginning to the somewhat unexpected ending. The book moved along at a good pace. The ending was satisfying. I look forward to seeing what happens next for Finlay and Vero.

I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars. I would recommend it to people who enjoy humorous mysteries with female main characters.

This book is currently available on Kindle Unlimited.

Book Review: Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo

 

From the publisher:

Find a gateway to the underworld. Steal a soul out of hell. A simple plan, except people who make this particular journey rarely come back. But Galaxy “Alex” Stern is determined to break Darlington out of purgatory—even if it costs her a future at Lethe and at Yale.

Forbidden from attempting a rescue, Alex and Dawes can’t call on the Ninth House for help, so they assemble a team of dubious allies to save the gentleman of Lethe. Together, they will have to navigate a maze of arcane texts and bizarre artifacts to uncover the societies’ most closely guarded secrets, and break every rule doing it. But when faculty members begin to die off, Alex knows these aren’t just accidents. Something deadly is at work in New Haven, and if she is going to survive, she’ll have to reckon with the monsters of her past and a darkness built into the university’s very walls.

Thick with history and packed with Bardugo’s signature twists, Hell Bent brings to life an intricate world full of magic, violence, and all too real monsters.

Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo was released January 10th, 2023 by Flatiron Books. This is the second book in the Alex Stern series.

My thoughts:

Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo is an excellent read. I give it 5 stars out of 5 possible. 

Among other things, this book is well paced right up to the ending. The end leaves off in such a way that a sequel is definitely called for. I can't wait for it!

The characters are interesting. I liked Alex, Turner, and Dawes the best. They were the most well-rounded characters. We did learn a little about Tripp and Alex's roommate Mercy, but not as much as we do about Stern, Turner, and Dawes. I especially liked the commitment that the characters showed to getting Darlington out of Hell.

I liked the definition of what vampires are supposed to be and what affects them. It was different. At first I was surprised at that inclusion of a vampire character. As the book goes on though, it makes sense to have the character type introduced when it was. 

So, overall this was a really great read. I would recommend it to people who enjoy dark academia novels, horror, or dark urban fantasy. The ending is a little bit of a cliffhanger, but it makes sense and has me looking forward to the next book in the series.

Happy Book Birthday to Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett

 

Today Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries is released by Del Rey Books. 

From the publisher:

Cambridge professor Emily Wilde is good at many things: She is the foremost expert on the study of faeries. She is a genius scholar and a meticulous researcher who is writing the world’s first encyclopaedia of faerie lore. But Emily Wilde is not good at people. She could never make small talk at a party—or even get invited to one. And she prefers the company of her books, her dog, Shadow, and the Fair Folk to other people.

So when she arrives in the hardscrabble village of Hrafnsvik, Emily has no intention of befriending the gruff townsfolk. Nor does she care to spend time with another new arrival: her dashing and insufferably handsome academic rival Wendell Bambleby, who manages to charm the townsfolk, muddle Emily’s research, and utterly confound and frustrate her.

But as Emily gets closer and closer to uncovering the secrets of the Hidden Ones—the most elusive of all faeries—lurking in the shadowy forest outside the town, she also finds herself on the trail of another mystery: Who is Wendell Bambleby, and what does he really want? To find the answer, she’ll have to unlock the greatest mystery of all—her own heart.

I've read the book and have a review posting soon. I gave it 5 out of 5 stars. I really enjoyed it. If you like stories about Faeries and books set in the early 1900s, then this could be a good pick for you. Check it out!

Book Review: Of Claws and Fangs by Faith Hunter

 

From the publisher:

Collected together for the first time, this volume contains shorter works featuring heroines Jane Yellowrock and Nell Ingram, as well as a host of other characters from the Jane Yellowrock and Soulwood series. Faith Hunter is “an expert at creating worlds filled with intriguing supernatural elements and exciting scenarios”* and her skills are on full display in this collection. From a vampire-filled Halloween evening in New Orleans to the searing tale of how a certain were-leopard first got his spots, this collection has something for everyone, and each story is sure to put the super in supernatural.
 
With eighteen stories in all, Of Claws and Fangs will enrich and entertain—it’s a must-have for Faith Hunter’s readers and all lovers of fantasy.

Of Claws and Fangs was published May 3rd, 2022 by Ace.

My thoughts:

The stories may have been previously published, but not all of them are readily available elsewhere. Faith Hunter puts a note at the beginning of the collection about this as well as brief notes before each story explaining its origin and where it might fall in the timeline of things. 

I thought all of the stories were excellent which is often unusual in a collection or anthology. While I enjoyed them all, the story "Bound into Darkness" stood out to me. It's a little longer than the rest, but it held me rapt. It's got Liz Everhart and Eli Younger as the main characters. It's told in alternating points of view between the two. There's plenty of action and magic. And there's loads of suspense.

Overall, I give this collection 5 out of 5 stars. I agree with the publisher that this is a must read for anyone who enjoys Faith Hunter's books. Other fans of urban fantasy might enjoy the book as well. It could serve as an introduction to Jane Yellowrock, Nell Ingram, and other characters and elements of their world.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my review.

Book Review: Under the Whispering Door by T.J. Klune

 

From the publisher:

Welcome to Charon's Crossing.
The tea is hot, the scones are fresh, and the dead are just passing through.

When a reaper comes to collect Wallace from his own funeral, Wallace begins to suspect he might be dead.

And when Hugo, the owner of a peculiar tea shop, promises to help him cross over, Wallace decides he’s definitely dead.

But even in death he’s not ready to abandon the life he barely lived, so when Wallace is given one week to cross over, he sets about living a lifetime in seven days.

Hilarious, haunting, and kind, Under the Whispering Door is an uplifting story about a life spent at the office and a death spent building a home.

Under the Whispering Door by T.J. Klune was published September 21st, 2021 by Tor Books.

My Thoughts:

Wallace is a very busy man. Work is his life. Imagine his surprise and consternation when a reaper comes for him as he's watching his own funeral. She brings him to a tea shop where the ferryman is. Wallace is quite upset. At one point he even stomps his foot and demands to be returned to the living. Hugo, the ferryman, informs him this is impossible. Wallace sulks. This is how he begins his transformative journey with the help of Hugo, Hugo's grandfather, the reaper, and a ghost dog.

The characters are all interesting. Wallace undergoes the biggest and most obvious change. But the others experience growth as well. I enjoyed the characters and rooted for them. I especially liked the bits between Wallace and Hugo's grandfather. And I enjoyed reading about Wallace and Hugo as they grow closer.

The novel has a quiet sort of tone to it. Almost all of the action takes place in the tea shop. The calmness is the perfect background for the story. 

There are a few scenes that are full of action. And there is a certain amount of sarcasm in the story as well. There's also some humor. I wasn't crazy about the ending, but it does follow the experiences logically.

I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars. It's well written. The characters are endearing for the most part. I really wanted to know what was going to happen to them. If you enjoy fantasy titles , you might enjoy this one. I really looked forward to this book and it did not disappoint.. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: True Dead by Faith Hunter

 

From the publisher:

Jane Yellowrock goes back to the city where it all began in the newest installment of this thrilling New York Times bestselling series.

Jane used to hunt vampires, but now she’s their queen. She’s holed up in the mountains with the Yellowrock Clan, enjoying a little peace, when a surprise attack on her people proves that trouble is brewing. Someone is using very old magic to launch a bid for power, and it’s all tied to the place where Jane was first drawn into the world of Leo Pellissier—the city of New Orleans.

Jane is compelled to return to NOLA because someone is trying to destabilize the paranormal world order. And because she now sits near the top of the vampire world, the assault is her problem. She will do what she must to protect what’s hers. Her city. Her people. Her power. Her crown.

True Dead by Faith Hunter was published September 14th, 2021 by Ace.

My thoughts:

This is the fourteenth book in the Jane Yellowrock series and the second to last novel in the series. That it's been so long running shows that there are readers who enjoy it as well as a talented author.

The world building is detailed and complex. There are many cultures and magic systems. For Jane, the center of it all is New Orleans. It's where things started and where things may end. As the Dark Queen, Jane is responsible for many different people and beings. And because she is the Dark Queen she will be challenged. It's hard to keep the many cultures straight. Lucky for her she has people to help with that.

Jane herself is not just Jane. Beast also resides within her. The relationship between the two has changed over the years and is complex. Both of them continue to grow as more responsibility is thrust upon them. It's interesting to watch how they view the same situations differently.

There's plenty of action in the book. It seems a little slow at first, but it picks up soon enough. With each action scene, the stakes seem to get higher. 

This book should not be read as a standalone. There are plot points that refer to previous occurrences in the series. While some explanation is given, there's so much more richness to be gotten from reading other books in the series first.

Overall I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars. It's a well written, complex piece of urban fantasy. If you have read other books in the series, this is a must -read. If you like urban fantasy, you will probably enjoy this series.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina by Zoraida Córdova

 

From the publisher: 

The Montoyas are used to a life without explanations. They know better than to ask why the pantry never seems to run low, or why their matriarch won’t ever leave their home in Four Rivers—not for graduations, weddings, or baptisms. But when Orquídea Divina invites them to her funeral and to collect their inheritance, they hope to learn the secrets that she has held onto so tightly their whole lives. Instead, Orquídea is transformed into a ceiba tree, leaving them with more questions than answers.

Seven years later, her gifts have manifested in different ways for Marimar, Rey, and Rhiannon, granting them unexpected blessings and powers. But soon, a hidden figure begins to tear through their family tree, picking them off one by one as it seeks to destroy Orquídea’s line. Determined to save what’s left of their family and uncover the truth behind their inheritance, her descendants travel to Ecuador—to the place where Orquídea buried her secrets and broken promises and never looked back.

The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina by Zoraida Cordóva was published September 7th, 2021 by Atria Books.

My thoughts: 

This book is a wonderful piece of magical realism. Magic happens in the characters lives and they accept it as normal. It starts with how they receive their invitations to receive their inheritances and grows from there. It's very well done.

The point of view switches among characters. In the case of Orquídea, it also alternates between her past and present. I had no problem following whose eyes we were looking through at any particular time. 

The characters themselves are intriguing. And it was interesting to watch how they dealt with their inheritances and the danger when it presented itself. For some there is an outward sign of the inheritance. And I think all of them undergo some kind of transformation even if it only affects their world view.

The story is beautifully told. Overall I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. If you enjoy magical realism, you will probably enjoy this book. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: Velvet Was the Night by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

 

From the publisher:

1970s, Mexico City. Maite is a secretary who lives for one thing: the latest issue of Secret Romance. While student protests and political unrest consume the city, Maite escapes into stories of passion and danger.

Her next-door neighbor, Leonora, a beautiful art student, seems to live a life of intrigue and romance that Maite envies. When Leonora disappears under suspicious circumstances, Maite finds herself searching for the missing woman—and journeying deeper into Leonora’s secret life of student radicals and dissidents.

Meanwhile, someone else is also looking for Leonora at the behest of his boss, a shadowy figure who commands goon squads dedicated to squashing political activists. Elvis is an eccentric criminal who longs to escape his own life: He loathes violence and loves old movies and rock ’n’ roll. But as Elvis searches for the missing woman, he watches Maite from a distance—and comes to regard her as a kindred spirit who shares his love of music and the unspoken loneliness of his heart.

Now as Maite and Elvis come closer to discovering the truth behind Leonora’s disappearance, they can no longer escape the danger that threatens to consume their lives, with hitmen, government agents, and Russian spies all aiming to protect Leonora’s secrets—at gunpoint.

Velvet Was the Night by Silvia Moreno-Garcia was published August 17th, 2021 by Del Rey.

This is definitely a character driven story. Elvis and Maite are like two planets orbiting the same star (the search for Leonora). Neither Elvis nor Maite are perfect. Of the two, I liked Elvis a little better than Maite who lies a lot and is prone to petty theft. 

Elvis makes an interesting comparison between Maite and Bluebeard's wife in fairy tales. It seems valid though not only for the reason he thinks. The more she sees of what is really going on, it seems to change her.

The book is well-written. The imagery draws you in. The plot moves along for the most part at a good rate. The closer it gets to the end, the harder it is to put down. I gave this book 5 stars out of 5. It's a good historical noir with two interesting antiheroes.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review: The Best Thing You Can Steal by Simon R. Green

 

From Goodreads: 

Gideon Sable is a thief and a con man. He specializes in stealing the kind of things that can't normally be stolen. Like a ghost's clothes, or a photo from a country that never existed. He even stole his current identity. Who was he originally? Now, that would be telling. One thing's for sure though, he's not the bad guy. The people he steals from always have it coming. Gideon's planning a heist, to steal the only thing that matters from the worst man in the world. To get past his security, he's going to need a crew who can do the impossible . . . but luckily, he has the right people in mind. The Damned, the Ghost, the Wild Card . . . and his ex-girlfriend, Annie Anybody. A woman who can be anyone, with the power to make technology fall in love with her. If things go well, they'll all get what they want. And if they're lucky, they might not even die trying . . .

My review:  

It's really well-written. I was luke warm about the heist idea, but the more I read, the better it got. It's quite an unusual crew that the new Gideon Sable assembles. Each member has his or her own good reason for going forward with the heist.

The pace of the story is good. I thought the part about assembling the crew and preparing for the heist would drag, but it did not. The suspense increases as the book goes on. I reached a point where I could not put it down. I needed to know the fates of the crew members.

I liked the idea of a London where magic coexists with the mundane, but not everyone is aware of it. And I enjoyed the descriptions of some of the magical items and how they worked. It shows a lot of creativity.

Overall, I gave the book 5/5 stars. It's definitely worth a read. This was my first book by Simon R. Green, but it won't be my last. 

 The Best Thing You Can Steal by Simon R. Green was published April 6th, 2021 by Severn House Publishers.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not influence my opinion. 

Review: Magic Lessons by Alice Hoffman

 

Once there was a babe abandoned in the snowy woods not far from Hannah Owens home. Hannah took in Maria and raised her. Maria had a talent for the unnamed arts and Hannah taught her all she knew. Hannah admonishes her to always love someone who will love you back.

Disaster strikes. Hannah dies and young Maria is left on her own. Robbed of her childhood by what she witnessed, Maria seeks help from her biological parents. Her father sells her into indentured servitude in Curacao. 

It's in Curacao that Maria first falls in love. She is  subsequently abandoned again. She makes her way to Salem, Massachusetts where witch hysteria is brewing. Along the way Maria will learn more about love. And it is in Salem she will utter the famous Owens family curse.

I liked the characters of Maria, Samuel Dias, and Hannah the most. Faith, Maria's daughter, is an interesting character as well. It's not that Faith is unlikable, but some of her choices are. Generally speaking, the characters in the book are appropriately fleshed out. Those you should like, you will probably like. Those that are less likable, the reader is shown reasons why they are less likable.

The pace of the book is well done. I was only tempted to look ahead once and that was because of a plot point rather than a pacing issue. I was worried for Maria going to Salem at a time when one could be accused and put on trial for witchcraft. I didn't look ahead though. 

This book is worth reading whether you've read the other books yet or not. I give it 5 out of 5 stars. It's well-written. There are interesting characters and plot twists. And it is well paced. I would recommend this book if you've read the others or want to, like historical literature, or like witchy books.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my review.