Book Reviews

Uptown Oracle Reads… Seven Mercies by Elizabeth May and L.R. Lam

Seven Mercies is an absolute gem that shines brightly in the sci-fi genre, offering a thrilling adventure filled with depth, diversity, and heart. This novel is the second installment in the Seven Devils duology, and it not only meets the high expectations set by its predecessor but surpasses them with a richly woven narrative that…
Uptown Oracle Reads… A Riveting Saga of Espionage and Redemption in Foul Lady Fortune by Chloe Gong

If you’re a fan of rich character development, intricate plots, and historical settings infused with supernatural elements, Chloe Gong’s Foul Lady Fortune might just be your next obsession. Set against the backdrop of 1930s Shanghai, this novel weaves together espionage, romance, and themes of identity and loyalty, creating a narrative that is as emotionally resonant…
Uptown Oracle Reads… To Sleep in a Sea of Stars by Christopher Paolini | A Grand Return to the Stars: Paolini’s Epic Space Opera

Christopher Paolini, known for his Inheritance Cycle series, ventures into the realm of science fiction with his ambitious novel To Sleep in a Sea of Stars. This expansive space opera brings together complex characters, intricate plots, and detailed world-building. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes this book a hit for sci-fi fans and where…
Mini Book Reviews – July 2024

Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to dive into some captivating reads that transport you to different worlds, filled with magic, mystery, and unforgettable characters. In this post, we explore three books that did catch my attention: “Wolfsong” by TJ Klune, “The Book of Azrael” by Amber Nicole, and “A Master of Djinn”…
Uptown Oracle Reads… A Taste of Gold and Iron by Alexandra Rowland

If you’re a reader who loves a richly crafted fantasy world combined with an engaging queer romance, A Taste of Gold and Iron by Alexandra Rowland might just be the next book for your TBR pile. But before you dive in, let’s explore what makes this novel stand out—and whether it’s the right fit for…
Uptown Oracle Reads… Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes | A Fresh Perspective on Medusa’s Myth

In Stone Blind, Natalie Haynes breathes new life into the age-old myth of Medusa, offering readers a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on one of mythology’s most misunderstood figures. Published in 2022, this novel delves into the story of Medusa, the only mortal Gorgon, whose life is irrevocably altered by the whims of the gods. Unlike…
Discovering the Enchanting World of Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett 🧚

If you’ve ever been captivated by the mysteries of faerie folklore or charmed by the cosy atmospheres of low fantasy tales, then Heather Fawcett’s “Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries” is a book you won’t want to miss. This unique novel, set in the remote Scandinavian country of Ljosland, immerses readers in a world where the…
Uptown Oracle Reads… Hyperfocus by Chris Bailey

Hyperfocus by Chris Bailey explores the power of intense concentration and focus in a world filled with distractions. Bailey delves into the concept of hyperfocus, which he defines as the ability to concentrate deeply on a task or activity, allowing individuals to achieve greater productivity and creativity. He contrasts hyperfocus with its counterpart, scatterfocus, which…
Uptown Oracle Reads… A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal

Step into the enchanting world of A Tempest of Tea, where fantasy and adventure collide in a tale of courage, loyalty, and resilience. In this riveting novel by Hafsah Faizal, readers are transported to the bustling tearoom of Spindrift, where a band of unlikely heroes embarks on a daring mission to save their home and…