October 2024

Exploring Divine Power and Intricate World-Building in The Gods Below by Andrea Stewart

The Gods Below by Andrea Stewart takes readers on an epic journey into a world shaped by ancient magic, gods in hiding, and powerful gemstones that bestow magical abilities on the fortunate few. Through the eyes of multiple characters, we are immersed in a richly built world of political intrigue, environmental destruction, and survival. Stewart…
Enchanting Folklore and Slow-Burn Romance: A Review of A Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft

A Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft is a lush and captivating sapphic fantasy romance that masterfully blends folklore, mystery, and an intriguing murder plot. Set in the magical kingdom of Brunnestaad, the story follows Lorelai Kaskel, a sharp-tongued folklorist, and her academic rival Sylvia von Wolff as they embark on an expedition to…
Cast Your Vote for the 2024 Readers Awards Shortlist

The 2024 Readers Awards are officially open for voting, and it’s your time to shine a light on your favourite books of the year! Curated by passionate booksellers from across the UK, these awards are all about celebrating the stories that captured our imaginations in 2024. Whether you love fiction, non-fiction, poetry, young adult, or…
You’ve Reached Sam by Dustin Thao: A Heart-Wrenching Tale of Love, Loss, and Letting Go

You’ve Reached Sam by Dustin Thao is a poignant debut that explores the complexities of grief, love, and the struggle to let go. The story follows Julie, a seventeen-year-old girl who finds herself lost after the sudden death of her boyfriend, Sam. When she unexpectedly reconnects with him through a mysterious phone call, Julie gets…
Nettle by Bex Hogan 🌿 A Dark, Enchanting Faery Tale

Nettle by Bex Hogan is a bewitching tale inspired by faery myth and folklore, taking readers on a captivating journey through a dark and dangerous fae kingdom. This young adult fantasy weaves together the enchantment of the faery realm with the treacherous consequences of striking bargains with the fae. Following the determined and curious protagonist,…
Standout Horror Authors and Their Must-Read Works

Horror fiction has been shaped and redefined by numerous authors who have pushed the boundaries of fear, imagination, and storytelling. These writers have created some of the most memorable and influential works in the genre, each bringing their own unique voice and vision to the realm of horror. Here’s a look at some standout authors…
A Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan – A Romantic Tale of Dragons and Deception

Sophie Jordan’s A Fire in the Sky promises an enchanting tale filled with dragons, magic, and romance set in a world where power and deceit reign. The story introduces us to Tamsyn, a royal whipping girl, and Fell, a feared warrior known as the Beast of the Borderlands. As the two are thrust into a…
Belladonna by Adalyn Grace: A Gothic Mystery with Death as a Love Interest

Belladonna by Adalyn Grace is a gothic murder mystery wrapped in lush, atmospheric writing and laced with romance. The story centres on Signa, a young orphan raised by a string of ill-fated guardians, and her eerie connection with Death, who has shadowed her since infancy. When Signa moves in with her last remaining relatives, the…
Mistress of Lies by K.M. Enright 🩸 A Dark Blend of Blood Magic, Romance, and Revenge

Mistress of Lies by KM Enright plunges readers into a world brimming with blood magic, political intrigue, and morally complex characters. The story follows Shan LeClaire, a blood worker willing to kill for power, and Samuel Hutchinson, a reluctant participant in a world of magic he’s tried to avoid. The intricate layers of betrayal, revenge,…