The Queen of Days by Greta Kelly

Title: The Queen of Days

Author: Greta Kelly

Genre: Fiction, Fantasy/Steampunk

Series: N/A

Hardcover, 384 pages 

Publication: October 24, 2023 by Harper Voyager 
Source: Personal library 
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For Balthazar and his family of thieves, stealing a statue during the annual celebration of the god Karanis was just a good bit of fun…or a way to stick it to the governor who murdered his parents. And yeah, the small fortune in reward doesn’t hurt—even if his boss also hired the mysterious Queen of Days to join the crew as “the weapon of last resort...”

Whatever that means.

But Bal doesn’t know the ceremony isn’t simply empty words and dusty tradition; it’s true magic. The kind of magic that rips open a portal for the god himself. Only the idol that Karanis planned on using for a body now lies broken at the Queen of Days’ feet. And half of it is missing.

With the aid of a lovable brawler, a society lady turned bomb maker, a disgraced soldier, and a time-eating demon, Bal must hunt down the missing half of the statue if he has any hope of earning his money, keeping his crew alive…and perhaps even saving all of humanity. But as his journey sends him racing through the city—and across realities—he discovers that doing all this might just doom the city.

The city be damned. It’s time to kill a god.

MY THOUGHTS

I'm always looking for a good hiest novel and The Queen of Days delivered. Bal and his crew is hired to steal an artifact from the Governor's temple with one stipulation. They must aquire assistance from the infamous thief, The Queen of Days, Tass.

Bal and his crew thought The Queen of Days was nothing more than myths and legends since they've never personally seen her and they're born and bred of Cothis. Except she's real and not entirely human. In exchange for helping them retrieve the artifact, they must each give up a month's time of their life. From the get-go the assignment goes sideways when an ancient God inhabits the Governor's body and it seems like everyone in Cothis is after Bal, his crew and Tass.

I enjoyed The Queen of Days much more than I expected to. The main storyline of vengeful Gods trying to takeover the human realm has been done many times but what stood out from this novel were the characters. As I got to know more of Bal and his crew, his family and of Tass and her background I grew more invested in their lives and was rooting for them to take out the bad guy. However, the downside is this is a standalone so all that character development felt a bit surface level and rushed. The book was open ended but I could see more possible stories involving these characters. The stories are there and I hope the author gives these characters more stage time.

The Magic system was fascinating. Tass is a demigod, part god-part human and her life-force hinges on taking time from human or energy from the netherworld (I think). It was funny to see the Crew's realization that the Gods they worship are truly living beings and some of them resides alongside humanity in every day life and no one is the wiser. We met Tass's brother, Uncle and Grandfather...and I want to meet more of the family. Finger crossed for more books in this world!

Overall The Queen of Days was a great read. There's plenty of action and heart and characters you can't help but root for. If you love a fun and thrilling heist novel; I highly recommend Tbe Queen of Days!

 

 

 

Bittersweet in the Hollow by Kate Pearsall

Title: Bittersweet in the Hollow

Author: Kate Pearsall

Genre: YA, Fiction, Folklore

Series: Bittersweet in the Hollow #1

Hardcover, 384 pages 

Publication: October 10, 2023 by G.P Putman's Sons Books for Young Readers
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
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In rural Caball Hollow, surrounded by the vast National Forest, the James women serve up more than fried green tomatoes at the Harvest Moon diner, where the family recipes are not the only secrets.

Like her sisters, Linden was born with an unusual ability. She can taste what others are feeling, but this so-called gift soured her relationship with the vexingly attractive Cole Spencer one fateful night a year ago . . . A night when Linden vanished into the depths of the Forest and returned with no memories of what happened, just a litany of questions--and a haze of nightmares that suggest there's more to her story than simply getting lost.

Now, during the hottest summer on record, another girl in town is gone, and the similarities to last year's events are striking. Except, this time the missing girl doesn't make it home, and when her body is discovered, the scene unmistakably spells murder.

As tempers boil over, Linden enlists the help of her sisters to find what's hiding in the forest . . . before it finds her. But as she starts digging for truth--about the Moth-Winged Man rumored to haunt the Hollow, about her bitter rift with Cole, and even about her family--she must question if some secrets are best left buried.

MY THOUGHTS

When I first read the synopsis of Bittersweet in the Hollow, I thought I was getting a small-town witchy cottage-core mystery. To my surprise I got all of that and so much more. Bittersweet in the Hollow incorporates the rich tradition and folklore of the Appalachians; especially to the story setting of West Virginia and its myths and legends of the Winged Moth-man.

A year ago, Linden James disappeared in the woods and only to reappear battered with no memories of what happened. Suddenly another girl goes missing except she doesn't return. The townspeople start whispering tales that perhaps the Winged Moth-Man abducted the girl like they did a child twenty-years ago…or a worst rumor, that Linden is involved. In a race against time, Linden begins investigating the disappearances only to unearth secrets that've been buried long ago while also unlocking memories from the night she disappeared.

What I loved about Bittersweet in the Hollow is everything can be found in reality and grounded in traditions and history. The James women come from a long generation of intuitives and healers…or what most like to say, witches. Each woman has a specialty; Linden can taste and influence peoples’ feelings, Rowan can detect lies, Juniper sees spirits and Sorrel can charm bees. The women work and own Bittersweet Farms that provides for their diner, The Harvest Moon. Any ailment that anyone may have, the James women can whip up a homemade remedy for it. As previously mentioned, Linden’s ability is that she tastes people’ feeling. I love how descriptive it was. Most of the time I notice that when authors use metaphors, they make no sense. But Pearsall’s metaphorical description and storytelling was clear, vivid and well-done. I also loved the use of the language of flowers…something I don’t see often used in literature except once before. It’s truly fascinating.

At the forefront the book is a mystery wrapped in lore but at the core it’s a story about family, sisterhood and community. I thought the mystery aspect was great and I was on the edge of my seat as the story picked up one-third of the way through but what I really enjoyed was the tight-knit family and cozy vibes. I love the description of the town of Caball Hollow and can see it clearly as if I was there. From Linden’s family Diner, the creek where all the high school-er ventured, all the little garden bed on Bittersweet Farm to the split Bone Tree in the forest.

Bittersweet in the Hollow was truly a pleasant surprise. As a girl that lives in the city, I am quite charmed and fond of rural small towns, and I absolutely love all things magical and folklore…and Bittersweet in the Hollow was the perfect combo hitting all the high notes. If you’re looking for this year’s fall-spooky book, look no further than Bittersweet in the Hollow. It won’t disappoint! For an extra treat, sprinkled in between chapters are snippets of Appalachians wisdoms along with recipes. How great is that?! 

 

 

 

 

 

Strange Unearthly Things by Kelly Creagh

Title: Strange Unearthly Things

Author: Kelly Creagh

Genre: YA, Gothic Romance, Paranormal

Series: N/A

Hardcover, 368 pages 

Publication: August 22, 2023 by Viking Books for Young Readers
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
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Eighteen-year-old Jane Reye is a psychic artist. She draws what she sees, and what she sees are spirits and the supernatural. Growing up orphaned, she's now of legal age and can no longer return to the girls' school she's called home for most of her life. Lost and alone after the death of her lifelong friend, she receives an invitation to partake in a study at the English manor Fairfax Hall: an investigation of the property that requires her specific area of expertise. Upon arrival, Jane understands this will be no ordinary study when she meets Elias Thornfield, the elusive proprietor of the estate, a boy her age, roguishly handsome, who dons a mysterious eye patch. During the study it becomes clear that something is amiss--something having to do with Elias and the spiritual activity taking place around the manor. Turning to her art to unravel the mystery, Jane is shocked to find that her talents--and her growing affection for Elias--could be the key to saving him from a horrible fate.

 

MY THOUGHTS

Now that Fall has arrived and spooky season is upon us, Strange Unearthly Things is the perfect book to kick-off the season. This book had me at Gothic Romance. But also a Jane Eyre retelling?! Say less and sign me right up! In Strange Unearthly Things, Jane, who recently aged out of the system had no idea what to do next nor where to go. But thanks to her psychic specialty in drawing what others don’t see, spirits, Jane is offered a high paying assignment at Fairfax Hall Manor to rid of its unwanted guest. Upon her arrival she discovers there’s more going on at the manor and with its owner Elias Thornfield than was previouslyd disclosed. Danger and death lurks in the shadows and the only one that can save Elias and the others is Jane.

I am quite fond of the classics and I unfortunately haven’t found many retelling or re-imaginings living up to its inspirations. However, Cregah takes the beloved Jane Eyre down a whole new route incorporating the paranormal. And if you know me, I’m a sucker for all things paranormal. For readers 

familiar with the story of Jane Eyre will surely be smitten to see the author’s use of dialogue from the original story. I absolutely loved the Gothic setting. But sometimes it was jarring with Elias being all prim and proper, the setting and vernacular of the psychic guests were all 21st century. I wasn’t expecting that and it honestly took a bit to get use to since it clashed when they interacted with Elias. 

I was pleasantly surprised that this wasn’t a straight ghost story. Halfway through the book Jane made a horrifying discovery that changed everything. While many reviewers didn’t like this turn of event, I found it fascinating. I should warn readers now that the ending is somewhat a HEA, but it's probably not one they’d expect or want. Not like the original Jane Eyre. And for that I am glad. I like seeing author put their own spin on the story and make it something similar yet unique. My favorite character in the entire book was Giovanni, his smart and funny quips was endless amusement that kept the story from getting too bleak.

All in all, Strange Unearthly Things was enjoyable. Like I said, my favorite character was Giovanni and I sadly wasn’t as attached to Jane and Elias like I hoped. Oddly, I wanted to know more about Elias and Thea’s backstory and wouldn’t mind if the author wrote a prequel on the events leading up to Elias's predicament. Now that’s a story I’d love to read. I still recommend this book and think it’s the perfect book to get into the spooky season Gothic vibes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Legacies by Jesscia Goodman

Title: The Legacies

Author: Jesscia Goodman

Genre: YA Thriller

Series: N/A

Hardcover, 336 pages 

Publication: July 25, 2023 by Razorbill
Source: I received a review copy in exchange for a honest review.
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Old money. New secrets. One killer party.

Scoring an invitation for membership to the exclusive Legacy Club in New York City is more than an honor. It gives you a lifetime of access to power and wealth beyond any prep school doors and guaranteed safety and security as Legacy Club members always look out for their own. That is, after you make it through a rigorous week of events and the extravagant gala, the Legacy Ball.

So it’s not surprising when Excelsior Prep seniors Bernie Kaplan, Isobel Rothcroft, and Skyler Hawkins are nominated as Legacies; their family pedigrees have assured their membership since birth—even if they're all keeping secrets that could destroy their reputations. But scholarship kid from Queens Tori Tasso? She’s a surprise nominee, someone no one saw coming. Tori’s never fit in this world of designer bags, penthouse apartments, and million-dollar donations. So what did she do to secure her place?

The night of the Legacy Ball is supposed to be the best night of these seniors’ lives, a night of haute couture, endless champagne, and plenty of hushed gossip.

Everyone expects a night of luxury and excess. No one expects their secrets to come out. Or for someone to die trying to keep them hidden.

 MY THOUGHTS

The Legacies is a standalone YA mystery thriller with the perfect vibe of Gossip Girl. The story is centered around four Excelsior seniors leading up to the Legacy Club Ball, an event that will shape their entire future. The book jumps back and forth through time and multiple POV of the three main heroines, Bernie the “It” girl, Isobel the “sidekick best friend” and Tori the “scholarship girl”. The Legacies opened up with a murder that shook high society to its core, as readers discovers alongside the characters what transpired and the identity of the victim as they navigated: lies, betrayal, secrets, blackmail…all in the name of The Legacy Club.

I’m normally not a fan of multiple point-of-view but in the case of The Legacies, it worked and was integral to the story. Readers were able to see more depth and exactly what the characters were thinking because most of the time, what we think we see and know on the surface isn’t the entire story. The girls couldn’t be more different, all nominated to the club for different reasons but all with the same goal. The Legacy club is the key to opening doors that are only available for the select members. Because it's not how or what you do but who do you know.

I enjoyed The Legacies more than I expected to. The first page set the tone of the book and I was hooked right away. The story flashed back before the Legacy ball and after, sprinkled with interview snippets as we pieced the puzzle pieces on the victim’s identity and people’ motives. The mystery aspect had me on the edge of my seat with endless twists and turns I didn’t see coming! Goodman’s writing and storytelling kept me engaged the entire time, adding enough bread crumbs along the way to entice reader resulting in a satisfying conclusion. Its been awhile since I’ve read a standalone and I forgot how nice it was to reach the end with things all tied up and completed.

 

 

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Title: Fourth Wing

Author: Rebecca Yarros

Genre: NA, Fantasy

Series: The Empyrean # 1

Hardcover, 512 pages 

Publication: May 2, 2023 by Redtower Books
Source: Personal Library
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Twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail was supposed to enter the Scribe Quadrant, living a quiet life among books and history. Now, the commanding general—also known as her tough-as-talons mother—has ordered Violet to join the hundreds of candidates striving to become the elite of Navarre: dragon riders.

But when you’re smaller than everyone else and your body is brittle, death is only a heartbeat away...because dragons don’t bond to “fragile” humans. They incinerate them.

With fewer dragons willing to bond than cadets, most would kill Violet to better their own chances of success. The rest would kill her just for being her mother’s daughter—like Xaden Riorson, the most powerful and ruthless wingleader in the Riders Quadrant.

She’ll need every edge her wits can give her just to see the next sunrise.

Yet, with every day that passes, the war outside grows more deadly, the kingdom's protective wards are failing, and the death toll continues to rise. Even worse, Violet begins to suspect leadership is hiding a terrible secret.

Friends, enemies, lovers. Everyone at Basgiath War College has an agenda—because once you enter, there are only two ways out: graduate or die.

 

MY THOUGHTS

There has been so much hype for Fourth Wing it’s literally everywhere. Whenever a book garners that much attention, it falls into two categories; extremely loved or hated. The hype was right! Fourth Wing has been called The Hunger Games of our time but with Dragons. I agree! The book takes place at Basgaith War College, training young adults in a career to help serve their kingdom of Navarre. There are four paths one could take,they can become a healer, scribe, infantry, or rider. We follow our main heroine, Violet, as she navigates the Rider Quadrant training and fighting to bond with a Dragon.

The cool thing about Fourth Wing was seeing a character with a medical disability being portrayed. Violet’s condition is similar to EDS, which is a disease that weakens connective tissues. It means a person has loose joint and thin skin that can easily bruise, along with weaken vessel and organs. In the book readers are told and shown this and the main heroine accepts this fact, that she’s different from her peers but she never once let it stop her from doing what everyone else was doing. Not only was she capable of doing the same tasks and activities, but she also excelled at all of them. I love a underdog.

Violet overall was a good heroine. I loved seeing her growth over the course of the book. It was more realistic as the story spanned the course of almost a year. Because of her differences she worked twice as hard as her peers. There briefly looked as if there was going to be a love triangle but thankfully her childhood best friend Dain wasn’t much of a contender. And gosh, how I loathed him. Have you ever met someone who tells you what to do under the guise of knowing what’s best or them trying to protect you? Or gives backhanded compliments? That’s Dain in a nutshell. Then there’s Xaden, an enemy of the family. Xaden is the certifiable bad boy in the entire school. He’s dangerous and deadly and yet he never mistreated or treated Violet differently. He treated her as his equal and went as far as making her stronger and better. He did a lot for Violet…things that would make any girl swoon lol. The rest of the cast were great. There was another character that I adored and was absolutely crushed that he didn’t make it in the end.

I thoroughly enjoyed Fourth Wing more than I expected to. The plot and pacing was action packed and kept me engaged at the edge of my seat till the very end…an ending I didn’t see coming! All the raves I’ve been hearing about this series starter were correct because this book was addicting. I love the world and characters and am so excited that we won’t have to wait too long for the next book which comes out at the end of the year!

 

 

 

 

Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder

Title: Poison Study

Author: Maria V. Synder

Genre: NA, Fantasy

Series: Chronicle of Ixia # 1

Paperback, 368 pages 

Publication: September 27, 2005
Source: Personal Library
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About to be executed for murder, Yelena is offered an extraordinary reprieve. She'll eat the best meals, have rooms in the palace—and risk assassination by anyone trying to kill the Commander of Ixia.

And so Yelena chooses to become a food taster. But the chief of security, leaving nothing to chance, deliberately feeds her Butterfly's Dust—and only by appearing for her daily antidote will she delay an agonizing death from the poison.

As Yelena tries to escape her new dilemma, disasters keep mounting. Rebels plot to seize Ixia and Yelena develops magical powers she can't control. Her life is threatened again and choices must be made. But this time the outcomes aren't so clear...

 

MY THOUGHTS

I was in the middle of a reading slump jumping from book to book and nothing grabbed my attention. I had Poison Study on my TBR for years and decided to read it on a whim hoping to get out of the slump. That certainly did the trick! I cannot believe the book has been out for over 15 years and I’ve never read it! It was so, so good, way better than I expected.

Poison Study follows nineteen-year-old Yelena who recently escaped the noose and was given somewhat of a second chance at life by becoming a poison taster for a high commander. Imagine your life on the line with each bite and sip you took. But that’s not all. A general under the commander wants Yelena gone and won’t stop at nothing until he accomplishes it.

I absolutely loved Yelena. She’s intelligent, resourceful, kind but also doesn’t ever back down from a fight. Yelena’s growth from the beginning of the book till the end was incredible to witness and yet she’s barely tapped into her full powers. Valek, Yelena’s teacher and love interest, was also a great male lead. I enjoyed seeing the slow shift that their relationship took. However, after realizing there was such a big age gap between the two, it didn’t sit too well with me.

This series is beloved by many and although I never read it when it was first published; reading it now shows that this book truly stands the test of time. And oddly relevant in 2023. The current obsession and trend right now is Romantasy or Fantasy Romance (whatever you want to call it) and Poison Study rivals everything currently on the market and out shines them easily. I cannot wait to continue Yelena’s journey and other novels in the Chronicles of Ixia.