Fire Touched by Patricia Briggs

Title: Fire Touched

Author: Patricia Briggs

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Series: Mercy Thompson # 9

320 Pages, Hardcover

Publication: March 8, 2016

Source: Personal Library

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Tensions between the fae and humans are coming to a head. And when coyote shapeshifter Mercy and her Alpha werewolf mate, Adam, are called upon to stop a rampaging troll, they find themselves with something that could be used to make the fae back down and forestall out-and-out war: a human child stolen long ago by the fae.

Defying the most powerful werewolf in the country, the humans, and the fae, Mercy, Adam, and their pack choose to protect the boy no matter what the cost. But who will protect them from a boy who is fire touched?

MY THOUGHTS

The last Mercy book that went in-depth on the Fae was the third installment, Iron Kissed. But the Fae take center stage once again in the ninth installment, Fire Touched, when Zee is broken out of Underhill along with a human child touched by the Fae who is seeking sanctuary with Mercy and Adam from the Gray Lords.

I'm surprised to say this, but I think Fire Touched is my favorite Mercy novel in the series so far and I'm only a little more than halfway through. I loved seeing many of the key players again. We have Zee, Tad, and the entire pack, but we're also introduced to new characters such as the other Gray Lords, Baba Yaga, and Aiden, the human child.

To be frank, this far into the series, I was afraid the story would start to feel repetitive or monotonous, but that wasn't the case at all. I love that I can still enjoy the series and continue to be surprised by it. The last time I read a Mercy book, her relationship with the pack was still rocky, and in Fire Touched we still see some of that strain while also watching those relationships slowly improve.

It was cool to see Adam's pack making unprecedented changes that could affect all packs across the U.S., although I'm sure that will bring even more trouble in future books. The Fae politics were also interesting. Many of the Fae were hoping to go to war with the humans, indirectly through Adam and Mercy, so we got to see how that all played out and how it affected the Marrok.

Another thing I appreciate about this book and the series overall is seeing the evolution of Mercy and Adam's relationship. Most of the time, especially in newer books, we don't get to see the "after" in happily ever after once the lead couple finally gets together. Stories usually end too early. And even when we do get to see it, it's often poorly done, treated as unimportant, or pushed to the back burner.

That's not the case here, though. Seeing their relationship continue to grow and strengthen is so refreshing. I love how honest and open their communication is. They're mature, supportive, and always have each other's backs. It's just wonderful to see in fantasy books.

I can't wait to read the next book in the series, and I hope this is the last time we see Christy because she is nothing but bad juju and drama.

This Monster of Mine by Shalini Abeysekara

Title: This Monster of Mine
Author: Shalini Abeysekara

Genre: Fantasy

Series: This Monster of Mine # 1

Publication: April 1, 2025, 416 pages

Source: Purchase

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Eighteen-year-old Sarai doesn't know why someone tried to kill her four years ago, but she does know that her case was closed without justice. Hellbent on vengeance, she returns to the scene of the crime as a Petitor, a prosecutor who can magically detect lies, and is assigned to work with Tetrarch Kadra. Ice-cold and perennially sadistic, Kadra is the most vicious of the four judges who rule the land - and the prime suspect in a string of deaths identical to Sarai's attempted murder.

Certain of his guilt, Sarai begins a double life: solving cases with Kadra by day and plotting his ruin by night. But Kadra is charming and there's something alluring about the wrath he wields against the city's corruption. So when the evidence she finds embroils her in a deadly political battle, Sarai must also fight against her attraction to Kadra - because despite his growing hold on her heart, his voice matches the only memory she has of her assailant...

MY THOUGHTS

I received This Monster of Mine in a subscription box last year, and while the summary always sounded intriguing, I wasn’t entirely convinced about reading a novel with an eighteen-year-old FMC in what is supposed to be a new adult/adult book. However, I am so glad I gave this book a chance because it was absolutely amazing. I’m kind of kicking myself for not starting it sooner!

I am a sucker for anything inspired by Ancient Rome. The world-building was vivid and well developed. I could easily picture Sarai strolling around Ur Dinye and taking in the picturesque Academiae buildings. The magic system was fascinating; many of the powers stemmed from something akin to blood magic, using blood over runes to activate abilities such as mind-probing, healing, illusions, and creating fire and lightning, to name a few. I thought the book was beautifully written. The plot was gripping, the pacing was perfect, and the combination of mystery, political intrigue, and forbidden romance balanced the story perfectly.

Over the past couple of years, I’ve noticed an emergence of novels centered around feminine rage. The majority, if not all, are, in my opinion, poorly written, or the reasons for the FMC’s rage are not well defined or justifiable. Usually, the causes of their rage feel innocuous or asinine. To be honest, they were so bad I was starting to get jaded. This Monster of Mine is the first book that truly encapsulates what a feminine rage story ought to be. Abeysekara created a brave, intelligent, sympathetic, and caring heroine who experienced the horrors of what humanity is capable of, whether through deplorable acts committed by strangers, fellow citizens, superiors, colleagues, or so-called friends. It was refreshing to see that, despite everything, Sarai did not become bitter, hateful, or unlikable like the perpetrators. Instead, her experiences propelled her to fight harder against the injustices of the world while remaining steadfast in her beliefs and sense of self. That was admirable and something I love seeing in a lead character. Her growth and transformation were incredible to witness, and although the story took place over only a couple of months, it still felt realistic and believable. I also thought the rest of the cast was extremely well written and fleshed out, even the villains.

This Monster of Mine was an incredible first book. I was fully immersed in the world Abeysekara created and completely invested in the story and characters. I can’t wait to read the sequel, and I already know this will be a series I revisit again and again. I highly recommend This Monster of Mine; it had everything: a compelling storyline full of action, mystery, suspense, and romance, beautiful writing, and unforgettable characters.

Family and Honor by K.N. Banet

Title: Family and Honor

Author: K.N. Banet

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Series: Jacky Leon # 2

356 pages, Paperback

Publication: November 15, 2019

Source: Kindle Unlimited

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I got away with it. Carey and her family are safe and I survived to tell the tale. Now I’m the only werecat in the supernatural community that can say a small family of werewolves lives in my borders. But, in the effort of saving Carey and helping her father, I had to begin shedding the secrets that kept me safe for years.

My identity is out there now. As one of Hasan’s children, more is expected of me and I had no idea what sort of repercussions would come from my decisions. Werecats are reporting problems all over the world and when two go missing, I can’t avoid the feeling of guilt.

My name is Jacky Leon and I am a child of Hasan, ruler of the werecats. I have to learn how to live up to the obligations and expectations of my family before more people die.

MY THOUGHTS

Family and Honor is the second book in the Jacky Leon series. After the events in Dallas, the supernatural world is never the same, as more people become aware of werecats and seek their protection for their own humans. When two werecats are found deceased, Jacky’s brother, Jabari, is sent to investigate. But after the family hasn’t heard from him for a week, Jacky is sent to uncover what happened to the murdered werecats and to find her brother.

If you aren’t familiar with urban fantasy, most series tend to follow a similar format. There’s usually an overarching storyline, but each book feels more episodic, with a new problem or mystery introduced and resolved by the end. In Oath Sworn, readers were introduced to werewolves, and in this installment, vampires enter the picture. Like the first book, it was incredibly easy to get immersed in Jacky’s world.

This series is very character-driven, and thankfully, for once I genuinely love all of the characters. One of the best parts of Family and Honor (as the title suggests) is finally getting to see more of Jacky’s werecat family. They’re a fascinating bunch, and I can’t wait to learn more about each sibling. Since Jacky sets out to find Jabari, the oldest sibling, he’s the first one we truly get to know. Jabari, a.k.a. The General, is exactly what you’d expect from that moniker: a strict, no-nonsense warrior who’s nearly three thousand years old. A scary sonavib*tch but by the end of the book, I was firmly Team Jabari. Of course, also Team Jacky and Team Heath.

Jacky continues to impress me, constantly proving she’s not someone to mess with yet everyone around her keeps underestimating her. She’s such a great and realistic character, and that’s a big reason why this series stands out and remains so enjoyable. She feels authentic, which is refreshing in a sea of cookie-cutter FMCs fueled solely by feminine rage that I've been seeing left and right. So much so, it's like its own trope now.

I am officially hooked on this series and have already started book three! I can’t wait to see what Banet has in store for these characters next. Once again, if you haven’t checked out this series yet, please do, it’s amazing.

Heir of Illusion by Madeline Taylor

Title: Heir of Illusion

Author: Madeline Taylor

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Verran Isles # 1

Publication: April 1, 2025

460 pages

Source: Libby Library

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She is not the pet they tamed.

Blessed with the power of illusion, Iverson Pomeroy has many tricks up her sleeve. However, none of them are a match for the enchanted collar at her throat that keeps her bound as assassin and mistress to a ruthless king. Forced to play the role of his obedient pet, she plots in secret to destroy him and claim the freedom she has always been denied.

She is the beast they let inside.

When a mysterious reaper, Thorne, arrives in the city with his sights set on the same weapon Ivy needs—the only artifact that can remove her collar—she must decide how far she’s willing to go.

And she will show no mercy.

With a tenuous alliance tying them together, Ivy learns there is more to her reluctant companion than meets the eye... He sparks her curiosity and ignites dangerous desires within her. But will the secrets they harbor destroy each other? And does it even matter, when anyone who so much as touches Thorne dies?

MY THOUGHTS

Finally! My prayers have been answered. I don’t know what it is, but the last few books I’ve read have been duds. I decided to pick up Heir of Illusion because the synopsis sounded promising and I’m so glad I did. It finally got me out of my reading rut!

Heir of Illusion had me from the very first page. Talk about one heck of an opening line! The book is being pitched as the “Next Romantasy Hit,” and honestly, I think we should retire the word romantasy because it’s becoming synonymous with mediocre books and poor writing (to me) which Heir of Illusion is absolutely not. It is so much more than what’s currently dominating the romantasy space. The worldbuilding and magic system felt refreshing and unique. I loved how the world was divided into different Isles and the Gods who inhabit them. The abilities granted by each God and how they manifest in the citizens and their heirs were fascinating to explore. The worldbuilding was complex enough to feel layered yet still easy to follow, which I appreciated. The writing was excellent, the pacing was great, and everything flowed so smoothly. Some dialogue might be considered modern for a fantasy setting, but because I was enjoying the story so much, it didn’t bother me at all.

Iverson was an amazing protagonist, flawed yet incredibly self-aware, which I appreciated. It was such a nice change from many current FMCs who are, frankly, oblivious and intolerable dolts. Iverson endured a terrible upbringing, and the more we learn about her, the easier it is to root for her. For a first book in a series, her growth felt realistic and very easy to emotionally connect with. She reminded me of old-school heroines: kickass with questionable decision-making at times, but ultimately full of heart. I like Thorne, for the most part. I’m still not entirely sure what to make of him because I’m not used to morally gray characters who openly express their feelings as easily as he does. He’s so understanding and considerate that it sometimes gave me pause. Still, Iverson and Thorne were fantastic leads, and I loved their early banter. The secondary characters were also well-developed and compelling. I adored Darrow, he was such an unexpected standout, and I’m glad we got more of him beyond the first chapter.

I truly thought I knew where this story was going, but I did not see those twists and turns coming! I love when a book can move me, keep me engaged, and genuinely surprise me. And the ending…Thorne…Iverson… absolutely brilliant! Heir of Illusion is an incredible start to a brand-new trilogy, and I cannot wait to read the next book. I’m shocked this is Taylor’s debut because the writing, worldbuilding, and plot were so impeccably done. For once, I wholeheartedly agree with the rave reviews, Heir of Illusion will be the next big fantasy obsession. One hundred percent earned. I highly recommend Heir of Illusion, such an incredible book!

The Jasad Crown by Sara Hashem

Title: The Jasad Crown

Author: Sara Hashem

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Scorched Throne # 2

Publication: July 15, 2025, 688 pages

Source: Libby Library

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Held deep in a mountain refuge, Sylvia has been captured by the Urabi, who believe she can return their homeland to its former power. But after years of denying her legacy and a forbidden alliance with Jasad's greatest enemy, Sylvia must win the group's trust while struggling to keep control of both her magic and her mind.

In the rival kingdom, Arin is caught between his father's desire to put down the brewing rebellion and the sacred edicts he's sworn to uphold. Arin must find Sylvia before his father's army, but his search will call into question the very core of Arin's beliefs about his family and the destruction of Jasad.

War is inevitable and Sylvia cannot abandon her people again. The Urabi plan to raise the Jasadi fortress, and it will either kill Sylvia or destroy the humanity she's fought so hard to protect. For the first time in her life Sylvia doesn't just want to survive. She wants to win. The fugitive queen is ready to come home.

MY THOUGHTS

I read The Jasad Heir earlier this year and loved it. Naturally, I had a lot of expectations going into the second and final book in the duology. I’m happy to say that The Jasad Crown did NOT disappoint!

I’ve been searching for a duology and a Romantasy that hit all the marks: multifaceted world-building and characters, an interesting and well-thought-out storyline, a true enemies-to-lovers trope, and overall excellent writing and storytelling. This duology accomplishes it all with flying colors. That said, I’m not sure I’d even categorize this series strictly as Romantasy, labeling it that almost feels like a disservice. Yes, there’s romance, but it doesn’t eclipse the entire novel. It’s woven into the story rather than being the main focus, and that balance makes it even stronger.

In my experience with duologies, the second book usually suffers from “second book syndrome". I’ve rarely found a sequel that’s as good as, let alone better than, its predecessor. But that’s not the case here. Hashem’s The Jasad Crown is not only as excellent as the first book, but I might also even say it’s better! The action, the stakes, the character development, and the expansion of the world are all taken up several notches.

This sequel also introduces two additional POVs: Marek and Sefa. Normally, I’m not a fan of dual POVs, let alone multiple POVs but here, it worked beautifully. The new perspectives added layers and depth to the story. After a few chapters, I began to appreciate how much they enriched the narrative.

These days, especially in the Romantasy genre, it seems every book claims to be an “enemies to lovers.” But after reading this series, I can confidently say that many of those claims fall short. The Jasad Heir and The Jasad Crown? Absolutely yes. This is the truest, finest depiction of the trope, from beginning to end. The slow burn, the yearning, the delicious tension, it’s all so well-written and satisfying. This is exactly how you write enemies-to-lovers.

I absolutely loved this book, this series, this world. The Jasad Crown (and The Jasad Heir) are among the best books I’ve read this year, and this is hands-down the best duology I’ve ever read. I’m so grateful I discovered this gem of a series and genuinely surprised it isn’t talked about more. The ending was bittersweet yet wrapped the story up beautifully. I know Hashem has said she doesn’t intend to return to this world, but I hope she does someday. If not, this is a series I’ll be adding to my rotation of comfort rereads. If you haven’t read this duology yet, I highly recommend adding it to your TBR, it’s truly amazing!

The Jasad Heir by Sara Hashem

Title: The Jasad Heir

Author: Sara Hashem

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Scorched Throne # 1

Publication: July 18, 2023, 523 pages

Source: Personal Library

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Ten years ago, the kingdom of Jasad burned. Its magic was outlawed. Its royal family murdered. At least, that’s what Sylvia wants people to believe. The Heir of Jasad escaped the massacre, and she intends to stay hidden, especially from the armies of Nizahl that continue to hunt her people.

But a moment of anger changes everything. When Arin, the Nizahl Heir, tracks a group of Jasadi rebels to her village, Sylvia accidentally reveals her magic—and captures his attention. Now Sylvia’s forced to make a deal with her greatest enemy: Help him hunt the rebels in exchange for her life.

A deadly game begins. Sylvia can’t let Arin discover her identity, even as hatred shifts into something more between the Heirs. And as the tides change around her, Sylvia will have to choose between the life she wants and the one she abandoned.

The scorched kingdom is rising, and it needs a queen.

MY THOUGHTS

I've had The Jasad Heir on my TBR since its release but hadn't gotten around to it due to the mixed reviews. I'm so glad I finally gave it a chance; it exceeded all my expectations!

The Jasad Heir is an Egyptian-inspired Romantasy that breathes new life into some of our favorite tropes. That said, I wouldn't categorize it strictly as "Romantasy", a term I'm honestly not fond of. This book is so much more than that. It's a perfect blend of action, suspense, romance, rich cultural depth, an engaging plot, and, most importantly, complex and compelling characters. The story is very character-driven, which is exactly what I love.

I was astonished to learn that this is Hashem's debut novel. The writing feels like the work of a seasoned author. The attention to detail, the depth of research, and the immersive world-building are top-notch. It’s clear how much heart and hard work went into crafting this story. I was hooked from the very first chapter.

I absolutely loved the characters, especially the contrast between Sylvia and Arin. Both are stubborn, strong-willed, and in control, but while Sylvia embodies controlled chaos, Arin exudes disciplined restraint. I truly appreciated the slow-burn tension between them. It felt subtle and organic, unlike many recent Romantasies that tend to overemphasize the romantic tension to the point of being forced.

What stood out most to me was the world-building. Readers get glimpses of the four main kingdoms, their rulers, citizens, and daily lives, it was fascinating. The trial arc, though brief and occurring later in the book (around the 70% mark), was well-executed and kept me engaged. I've read plenty of trial and competition-centered stories, and I can confidently say the trials here were above par—concise, well-paced, and genuinely interesting, without dragging down the story.

If you haven’t read The Jasad Heir yet, I highly recommend it. With the final book in the duology just around the corner, there’s no better time to dive in!

Creatures of Chaos By Julie Hall

Title: Creatures of Chaos

Author: Julie Hall

Genre: UF Fantasy

Series: Creatures of Chaos # 1

Paperback, 445 Pages 

Publication: October 29, 2024

Source: Personal Library
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Chaos, the vicious supernatural competition where heroes are born and riches are won.

To most, it's just an urban legend whispered in the darkest shadows, but that all changes when my best friend drags me into a savage world where vampires, shifters, and fae compete for glory and fame.

As a creature without magic, I’d be a fool to enter Chaos, but the prize—a dagger of untold power—could change my powerless existence. With that dagger, I could wield magic, earn respect, and maybe, just maybe, win the heart of the dragon heir… it’s a risk I have to take.

Now, I'm pitted against beasts in a ruthless battle with no powers, no plan, and an infuriatingly attractive ally who’s just as likely to slit my neck as save it. Every round of Chaos leads me closer to seizing my deepest desires or losing everything.

In Chaos, survival is the only rule. And winning is all that matters.

MY THOUGHTS

Creatures of Chaos is my first Julie Hall novel. I serendipitously came across Hall's book a couple weeks before its release date and I am so glad I did. I didn't know much about the story except there was a supernatural competition and a magicless girl was one of the contestants.

I kid you not, I was hooked from the first page. The author throws readers right into the suspense as she introduces us to our protagonist, Locklyn as she takes the dark tunnel shortcut to her class only to be ambushed by the school's mean girls. I immediately took to Locklyn. Despite being magic less in a school full of shifters, faes and vampires she doesn't let that fact stop her from standing up for herself or backing down from confrontation. I absolutely love the entire cast of characters and seeing Locklyn's relationship with her parents, best friends, the entire school and the mysterious Talon. 

Creatures of Chaos had everything I enjoy reading about; deadly competition trial, a magical academy setting, and a tension filled love triangle that's part best friends to lover and frenemies to lover. To be fair, love triangles are usually a hit or miss, but at the beginning this triangle; it had me giggling and let me say, I was without a doubt Team Talon from the start and am still rooting for that outcome. While I adore Locklyn, I felt she was really oblivious when it came to her best friend, Becks. He was kind of a controlling douche. But I had to remind myself that this was a young adult series and Locklyn is seventeen. 

I don't read as much Young Adult as I did in the past and have found many Young Adult books this past year and prior years to be lacking, mediocre and cookie-cutter but I am happy to say Creatures of Chaos has rekindled my faith back in the genre. I loved Creature of Chaos. Despite all the similar tropes I mentioned earlier, Hall created an engaging and exciting novel, and I can't wait to read more about Locklyn and her friends. Because what makes this book standout from others like it, are the characters. And anyone who has read it or plan to read it will know exactly what I mean. If you haven't read Creatures of Chaos yet, this is a book you don't want to miss. Add it to the top of your TBR A.S.A.P.

When We Were Kings by A.H. Hadley

Title: When We Were Kings

Author: A.H. Hadley

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Wolf of Oberhame # 1

Paperback, 312 pages 

Publication: September 23, 2015

Source: Personal Library
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When tossed into the gladiator arena, the delicate girl in the fancy pink dress should be the first to die. She has other plans. Surviving is at the top of Leyli's list. Revenge is a close second.

Having grown up behind the sheltered walls of the Oberhame Palace, she knows what the crowd wants. Her country was built from the scraps of their neighbors. Gladiators are just one part. Evidently, political coups are another, and she's just become a pawn in the games of men. But why is she still alive? They've killed the heir to the throne. Have they gotten to her father? Is the king dead?

In the cell beside her, the man known as the Lion is impressed. The first day, they all cry. Men, women, it doesn't matter. But this one is different. Her tears don't slow her down. They make her stronger, and when he looks in her eyes, he sees it. Her desperation is feral. It means she won't hesitate to do what she has to. She might be cornered, but this bitch is the kind who'll bite.

When he offers advice, she takes it. When she manages to survive, he's pleasantly surprised. Little does he know, he's about to become her best weapon. Leyli isn't merely trying to live through the games. She also wants to protect her father's throne - but to do that, she needs to become someone else. She can no longer be the Princess.

The Lion has to forge the Wolf.

MY THOUGHTS

I was in the middle of a reading slump when I came across When We Were Kings by A.H. (Auryn) Hadley. The cover caught my attention but the synopsis piqued my curiosity further. A sheltered princess gets thrown into the Gladiator rings and teams up with the strongest, scariest player in the entire game...say less! 

I was enthralled within the first chapter and connected with the characters immediately. I loved the dynamic relationship between The Lion and, Leyli a.k.a. The Wolf of Oberhame. It was so satisfying seeing Leyli's growth from a novice to pro gladiator, bringing down men twice her size. The stakes were high as Leyli and The Wolf try to stay alive all while keeping her identity a secret. There were some quiet moments in the book where it's just the two of them training and talking to each other, and I don't know why but those were probably my most favorite scenes. The Wolf, Tristan was also a great MC and I know this may sound cliché, but he really wasn't like the other men in the ring. But I never once got that stereotypical snowflake; I'm special vibe from either Tristan or Leyli, which was a nice change for once.

I absolutely loved When We Were Kings from start to finish. The ending tied up everything nicely to lead into the next book and I can't wait to start it! This book has been out since 2015, the trilogy complete. I'm surprised that this book isn't more well-known or popular because it should be! It's better than most books right now in the market in terms of Romantasy (hate this new word the Pub made-up) or just Fantasy. I've read a couple of Gladiator related books in the past, but nothing was ever written this well or this engaging. If you haven't read this series yet, i highly recommend it! This series is definitely going on my "Forever Shelf". 

Acolyte by Stephanie Fisher

Title: Acolyte

Author: Stephanie Fisher

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Tempris # 2

Paperback, 651 pages 

Publication: April 16, 2020

Source: Personal Library
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Magic marked her for suffering.

Magic will save her.

Magic will lead her home.

How far is too far when it comes to love?In a matter of moments, everything Taly ever thought she knew came crashing down around her. Her mother’s spells were broken, her powers unleashed. She’s no longer mortal but fey, and every day serves as a reminder that her entire life has been a lie.To make matters worse, Taly has been captured and imprisoned by a woman claiming to be the Time Queen. Her only way home is to play the Queen’s game and train in the art of time magic. The Queen has commanded that she become an Acolyte — a task that could take years to complete. Meanwhile, Skye is left as the last line of defense to protect Tempris from an invading horde of walking dead. He still doesn’t have a name or a face to put to his enemy, and there are traitors inside the city. Everyone keeps saying that Taly is dead, but he can’t accept it. He won’t. And he’ll do whatever it takes to bring her back — even if it costs him everything.A renegade queen, forbidden magic, and a love that reaches across time and space — Taly and Skye will be tested, their loyalties pushed to the point of breaking, as war looms on the horizon.

MY THOUGHTS

Acolyte started exactly where we left off in the first book, Shardless, with Vaughn being reprimanded, Taly in a time loop space with the Time Queen and Skye battling the Shades. The second book expanded a lot more on the history, character backgrounds and their motives. Biggest question of all was: Who was the villain and why did the Queen close the gates all those centuries ago?

Acolyte was just as good as the first book, but I wished we had more scenes with Taly and Skye together. There were a few but it wasn't the same. Most of the book involved Taly learning time magic while Skye figured out how to save Taly since everyone around him thought she was gone.

I really enjoyed seeing and learning more about Skye's older brother Kato. There was so much more depth to him than first impressions but in this book, we had the opportunity to peel back the layers to better understand why he acts the way he does. I like him just as much as Skye and Taly.

The final few chapters had my heart racing with anticipation. I can't wait to read the third book whenever it gets published. Hopefully this year! All in all, Acolyte was a great sequel. To be honest, I'm surprised this series isn't as popular as other books, if not more. The series is truly magical, breath of fresh air, exceptionally written with standout character, plot and worldbuilding. Seriously, this is a series you don't want to miss. Highly, highly recommend!

Daughter of the Blood by Anne Bishop

Title: Daughter of the Blood

Author: Anne Bishop

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Black Jewels Trilogy # 1

Paperback, 384 pages 

Publication: March 1, 1998

Source: Personal Library
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Seven hundred years ago, a Black Widow witch saw an ancient prophecy come to life in her web of dreams and visions. Now the Dark Kingdom readies itself for the arrival of its Queen, a Witch who will wield more power than even the High Lord of Hell himself. But she is still young, still open to influence—and corruption.

Whoever controls the Queen controls the darkness. Three men—sworn enemies—know this. And they know the power that hides behind the blue eyes of an innocent young girl. And so begins a ruthless game of politics and intrigue, magic and betrayal, where the weapons are hate and love—and the prize could be terrible beyond imagining...everything.

MY THOUGHTS

I’ve heard about The Black Jewel Trilogy for as long as I’ve been reading fantasy, which is quite a long time. I’ve even read Bishop’s The Others series. So, I’m not sure why I never picked up The Black Jewels Trilogy sooner, but I’m glad I finally did because the first book in the series, Daughter of the Blood, was absolutely incredible!

Bishop didn’t waste any time and threw her readers right into the story, opening up with a prophecy of a girl the entire realm has been waiting for. I’ll be honest; the first 25% of the book was very hard to understand. The author gave a brief description before the story of the Jewel ranks and Blood Hierarchy, but that’s it. The world is complex, and there are a lot of major players to get through, but once readers get pass the 25%, I guarantee you’ll be glued to the pages, as I was.

Daughter of the Blood has one of the most deliciously dark worldbuildings I’ve ever read. It was intriguing and sexy, yet brutal and unforgiving. I’m not sure if the book was ever intended for the young audience it reached, but this book is not for the faint of heart. There were so many trigger warnings and topics that normally raise my red flags that would put me off reading a book, and still, I continued reading and found myself not only enjoying the book but loving it. Definitely check the warnings before you read!

Most of the characters in Daughter of the Blood were truly morally grey characters. I loved them all with their faults and flaws. Bishop did an amazing job showcasing the horrendous and beautiful sides of people’s humanity. I’ve never seen it done so well until now.

Daughter of the Blood was written back in the late '90s, specifically 1998, and I can say without a doubt that this book has truly stood the test of time. The themes and topics posed in the book were relevant then and are relevant now. I’ve read many books over the years, and I could already tell this book is something special and a book that I know I will return to time and time again. It’s no wonder it is so loved and so highly spoken of. Many of the books being published today cannot even hold a candle to this book, nor do come close. 

I can't wait to read the sequel!

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?!