What I’m Reading: March 2024
Godkiller by Hannah Kaner
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book wasn’t what I expected. Since it’s been popular online, I thought it would be a lighter read with more romance and fun fantasy world-building. I was wrong. It’s not a light read — there’s very minimal romance — and the characters aren’t exactly likable. That said, I enjoyed it. The world-building and magic system is unique, and I enjoyed the aspect of individuals gaining power from gods and the gods getting greedy off humans’ sacrifices for their blessing. It’s gritty and dark, but there’s just enough light and hope to keep up the suspense. I’m excited to read the next book in this series soon.
One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book has been on my radar for a while. It was first recommended to me while standing in line for the Iron Flame midnight release. I remember the girls in line saying it was their favorite fantasy series because the magic isn’t free, and sometimes the price for using it is too high. I was instantly intrigued and put it on my TBR.
I really, really enjoyed this unique book. In the world of One Dark Window, people are terrified of catching an infection that leaves them with unnatural abilities that eventually drain their life force and cause them to lose their minds. Anyone who catches the infection is hunted and dispatched by the Rowan King’s elite soldiers. Infection isn’t the only way to gain power though. Ambitious individuals collect Providence Cards, which give them specific powers, though not without cost. Elspeth finds herself in the middle of political scheming as she tries to hide the consequences of her infection and the dark power that lurks beneath her skin and threatens everything that she is.
Gothic, intriguing, and magical, One Dark Window is one of my favorite books I’ve read so far this year. The next book, Two Twisted Crowns is on my list!
House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Mass
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Much anticipated … maybe a little too anticipated.
I hate to admit I was disappointed with HOFAS. Up until this point I have loved the Crescent City series. I think they’ve been a good display of Mass’s fantasy writing and world-building abilities. But this book felt rushed and trope-ish. Without spoiling too much, all I can say is that I expected more. I don’t think this is the last we’ll read of these characters, but I don’t think Mass left much room for character or story growth either. Maybe she’s pushed this world too far. I’m hoping we see something different from Sarah soon. I’d love for her to explore a new world and a new cast of characters again.
Unbound by Christy Healy
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Inspired by Celtic lore, Unbound is a beauty and the beast retelling, except the beast happens to be a beautiful woman cursed with magic that is not her own. It’s the story of one woman finding and choosing herself and unraveling her past and true emotions from the expectations set out by the men who controlled her life for so long. It’s a beautifully told folktale with a strong message that will resonate with many readers. The banter between characters was top-tier and I found myself rooting for certain characters despite not really liking them just because they were so charming, which added a lovely complex emotional layer. While I loved the imagery and dialogue, it seemed to drag at times. The overall plot wasn’t really progressing for most of the chapters, and I thought the final resolution was sort of anti-climactic. But I really enjoyed the beautiful folklore imagery and feminist messaging of this book, and I look forward to Healy’s future works.
Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Warning: This will cause cravings for coffee and pastries.
Cozy, heartwarming, and funny–this might be one of my new favorite books. I listened to the audiobook, which is read by the author, and I enjoyed it so much.
Viv is a retired mercenary who decides to put a life of battle behind her and open a coffee shop. Used to going to battle alone and keeping her distance from people, she must learn to be part of a community and rely on others. This book is filled with fun characters and personalities and the author does a fantastic job bringing them to life in the audio book.
This book brought me to actual tears (of joy) multiple times. I loved the characters and their development so much. I don’t think I’ve ever wanted to transport into a story so bad. I can’t wait to read the next book, Bookshops & Bonedust.
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