What I’m Reading: January 2024
New year, new reading goals!
There are so many exciting new releases coming out this year, and I can’t wait to share my reviews. This month, I read a couple of new books and a couple of less recent books that have been on my TBR for a while.
I don’t have a specific reading number goal in mind, since it depends on how busy I am and my mood. I’m a believer in Quality over Quantity when it comes to books. I have a goal of widening out to different genres this year. 2023 was the year of romantasy, which I love, but I’m hoping to pick up some more variety this cycle.
Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross
Finished on January 6, 2024
The much-anticipated sequel to Divine Rivals did not disappoint. (Though I know there has been some debate in the book community about it!)
I love Roman and Iris, and I’ll take them in whatever way I can get them. I was lucky enough to attend a Q&A with Rebecca Ross shortly after the book came out, and I am enthralled with her ability to craft characters that feel so real.
Much like its predecessor, Ruthless Vows made me feel nostalgic while I was reading it, knowing I’ll never get to read it for the first time again. I had to remind myself to put it down and savor it, which is always a good sign.
I laughed and cried more than once. Ross presents the found family and the first love tropes effortlessly in a way that I was hardly aware of the plot devices being used at all. After completing the lovely duology, I’m excited to explore the rest of Ross’s portfolio of work.
2. The Foxglove King by Hannah Whitten
Finished on January 11, 2024
This was the book club pick for January!
When I first picked up The Foxglove King, I didn’t realize it was the same author who wrote For the Wolf, which I read a couple of years ago. I didn’t finish the For the Wolf duology, since the first one felt like a standalone.
At times, the plot was obvious, and the predictions I made at the beginning of the book came true. I wasn’t surprised by much, even though some story developments felt as if they were thrust into the plot just to get them out there. The ending felt abrupt and rushed, and I would have enjoyed a little more time for worldbuilding.
Despite the room for growth, in The Foxglove King, it feels like Whitten has matured as a writer. The magic system is better developed, and the characters are more interesting. While I wasn’t entirely satisfied with certain plot points, overall, I enjoyed it.
3. Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher
Finished on January 18, 2024
I loved the vibes of this book. As a student of classic fairy tales, I appreciated the dark undertones and mature themes. The author addresses issues of women’s rights, domestic abuse, and self-confidence in such a heartbreakingly authentic way, through the lens of fantasy, that I can’t help but love it.
If you’re expecting romance, this isn’t the book. But if you want to meet a realistic female character who just wants to see her sister happy—and is willing to sacrifice her own comfort to help her find it—then this is for you.
4. Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews (#4 in the Kate Daniels series)
Finished on January 24, 2024
These books are my go-to series when I’m in a book slump. I’ve been reading them for about a year now, and they never disappoint. As an Atlanta native, I thoroughly enjoy the alternate universe Atlanta that Andrews creates. Kate is just a bad-ass character, and she always comes out on top. The world-building and magic systems are unique reimaginations of fantasy classics in an urban setting.
What’s not to love?
5. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Mass (Graphic Audio edition)
Finished on January 29, 2024
Yes, I’ve read the entire Mass catalog, including the ACOTAR series in the past. But it’s been several years since I finished this series, and I wanted a refresher on the Massverse before the Crescent City 3 release.
This is the first Graphic Audio book I’ve listened to, and it’s my new obsession. If you don’t know, Graphic Audio produces dramatized audiobooks and features a full cast and sound effects.
I won’t go into detail about the book, since almost anyone with a pulse has heard of it by now. I understand the hype, and I understand the hate. As an editor, I like to stay on the fence about online book debates, especially about books that are so well-loved. Who am I to judge if people enjoy a book?
All I can say is that I thoroughly enjoy everything Mass writes, and listening to the audiobook was just fun. I found myself going on long walks just to have an excuse to listen. Say what you will about the series, but I’ll keep reading as long as it’s entertaining.
I’m currently listening to the Court of Mist and Fury Graphic Audio, and it’s also really, really good.
Here’s a tip: I got the audiobooks from my library through Hoopla for free! Don’t sleep in public libraries, people!
That’s all I have for this month! Don’t forget to subscribe to the monthly newsletter to get helpful writing and editing tips, book reviews, and more in your inbox at the beginning of every month.
Happy reading!