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!

Immortal Consequences by I.V. Marie

Title: Immortal Consequences

Author: I.V. Marie

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Souls of Blackwood Academy # 1

Publication: July 29, 2025, 512 pages

Source: I received a review copy from the publisher in exchange for a honest review. 

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Welcome to Blackwood Academy: the legendary school located at the fringes of the afterlife, where students are fated to spend the rest of eternity shepherding lost souls. Once a pupil enters the school’s arched gates, there is no way out…except for the Decennial, a once-in-a-decade celebration that rewards nominees who pass its trials with a choice: formally graduate and join Blackwood’s magical elite, or venture into the unknown and cross over to the mysterious Other Side.

Wren Loughty is certain that this Decennial, she has what it takes to earn the nomination—unless, that is, her academic archrival Augustine Hughes steals her spot.

Irene Manette Bamford has never cared about playing by the rules. She’s willing to break whatever (and whoever) stands between her and getting the hell out of Blackwood, including her best and only friend, Masika Sallow.

Olivier Dupont gave up on securing the nomination ages ago. But after he meets Blackwood’s newest student, Emilio Córdova, he’ll do anything to keep Emilio from leaving him and crossing over to the Other Side—even if it means claiming the victory for himself.

All of them are determined to be Blackwood’s chosen candidate–and all of them would do anything to win. But none of them are prepared for what’s to come. Because this Decennial will be different. This time, the Decennial isn’t a celebration…it’s a competition. And there can only be one victor.

MY THOUGHTS

I’ve been excited for Immortal Consequences ever since I first heard it was picked up by a publisher. A dark academia novel with a boarding school in the afterlife? I'm already sold.

Immortal Consequences is told from six different points of view, all students of Blackwood Academy. Every ten years, students are selected to participate in the Decennial; a trial in which one is chosen to join the next level and become an Ascended, an elite protector of the school. While the others face a different fate: join the ethers, tasked with reaping souls for all of eternity.

The story wastes no time, diving right into the action and quickly introducing the key players and the central mystery. I immediately adored Wren and August, Blackwood’s top students. I loved how quickly I connected with the characters and how distinct their personalities felt, even within just a few chapters. Each was well-written and easy to identify: Wren and August, the academic rivals fighting a growing attraction; Oliver and Emilio, the inseparable pair of opposites; and Masika and Irene, the classic grumpy-and-sunshine duo.

As a fan of dark academia, I thought the concept of a school in the afterlife was incredibly unique. Blackwood Academy isn’t the only force at play though, there’s also the Demien Order, made up of former students or faculty who gave up their humanity to wield shadow magic. And then there are other mysterious entities lurking in purgatory. The magical school, the looming threat, the house system, all reminded me of Harry Potter in the best way. The students are divided into houses, each specializing in a particular magical ability. I especially enjoyed the scenes where we saw them use their powers, whether it be elemental, spellcasting, or defensive magic.

I truly love Marie’s writing; it flows beautifully and made it easy to immerse myself in this world. Normally, I’m not a big fan of multiple points of view, but Marie made it work flawlessly. The chapters felt just the right length, and I appreciated how the book was segmented into parts, giving readers a sense of pacing and structure.

All in all, Immortal Consequences is an excellent start to a new series, full of compelling characters, action, and plenty of twists and turns. With the way it ended, I absolutely can’t wait to see what happens next. If you're a fan of all things supernatural or dark academia, I highly recommend making Immortal Consequences your next read!

The Midnight Pack by Jasmine Kuliasha

Title: The Midnight Pack

Author: Jasmine Kuliasha 

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Series: Jericho James # 1

Publication: May 27, 2025, 338 pages

Source: Libby

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Jericho James is in over her head.

She's a Private Investigator famed for debunking mythical creature sightings, and she expects her latest case in Stillbridge, Maine to be just another instance of "town who cried wolf." But instead of finding a poorly judged animal in the Northeastern woods, Jericho discovers a family of reclusive scientists. Handsome scientists, no less, working on a cure for a mystery virus.

Intrigued by the virus and utterly captivated by Benjamin--a man with cheekbones that must have been chiseled by God himself--Jericho finds she's dying to learn more about the family and their work.

And when she accidentally discovers the family's secret, she might just get her wish.

MY THOUGHTS

When I first saw the cover for The Midnight Pack, I literally gasped. It was stunning and the fact that it was a werewolf urban fantasy was an added bonus. I've been reading urban fantasy for as long as I can remember; it's one of my favorite sub-genres. The cover and synopsis both looked and sounded promising. But it saddens me to say that The Midnight Pack unfortunately did not live up to my expectations.

To start, the pitch for this book was completely inaccurate. Beauty and the Beast meets Supernatural? The novel was nowhere near being influenced by Beauty and the Beast. There was ONE line, cheesy as hell and not in a good or funny way. As for the Supernatural comparison, I’m guessing it’s because the main character is a P.I. who takes on bizarre, unexplainable cases? Hard to say. To be frank, I had a lot of issues with The Midnight Pack.

The story begins with Jericho being called to the town of Stillbridge to solve a murder. In the first couple of chapters, she does the usual investigative work' talking to people and witnesses. She gets a tip about a reclusive man in the woods, and on her way to find him, she sprains her ankle and is rescued by his son, Benjamin. For the next 70% of the book, I had to endure endless scenes of Jericho and Benjamin flirting. She stays with him for most of the book, supposedly waiting for her ankle to heal but for someone who's injured, she walks around quite a bit. The murder case is all but forgotten, and whenever Jericho does remember it, she’s quickly distracted by her lust for Benjamin.

Despite being in their late twenties or early thirties, Jericho and Benjamin acted like horny teenagers; immature and ridiculous. The author repeatedly used the word “blushed” to describe their reactions to each other, every few paragraphs and it drove me bonkers.

I wish the werewolf element had been a mystery to the reader, but since it's splashed across the cover, watching Jericho obliviously stumble around the Grey' household, clueless that they’re werewolves, was painful. There was so much missed potential for suspense and discovery, but it was completely undermined by the cover tagline. The worst part of the novel, however, was the romance; it was childish and full of angst. It was instalove in the worst way. They said “I love you” after knowing each other for a week or less. There was no foundation, no buildup; just superficial attraction: she’s hot, he’s hot. If the author had removed the romance altogether, the novel might have been better, but unfortunately, it ends up overshadowing everything and dragging the story down.

There were also numerous plot holes, where things either didn’t make sense or were too easily and conveniently explained, as if the reader was just supposed to accept it and move on. The Midnight Pack was a real chore to get through, but I pushed on just to finish it. I had already invested so much time that I didn’t want to DNF it; though in hindsight, I should have. I do not recommend this book. The Midnight Pack was poorly written, with superficial characters and a subpar plot.

Labyrinth's Heart by M.A. Carrick

Title: Labyrinth's Heart

Author: M.A. Carrick

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Rook and Rose # 3

Publication: August 15, 2023, 688 pages

Source: Personal Library

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May you see the face and not the mask.

Ren came to Nadežra with a plan. She would pose as the long-lost daughter of the noble house Traementis. She would secure a fortune for herself and her sister. And she would vanish without a backward glance. She ought to have known that in the city of dreams, nothing is ever so simple.

Now, she is Ren, con-artist and thief. But she is also Renata, the celebrated Traementis heir. She is Arenza, the mysterious pattern-reader and political rebel. And she is the Black Rose, a vigilante who fights alongside the legendary Rook.

Even with the help of Grey Serrado and Derossi Vargo, it is too many masks for one person to wear. And as the dark magic the three of them helped unleash builds to storm that could tear the very fabric of the city apart, it's only a matter of time before one of the masks slips—and everything comes crashing down around them.

MY THOUGHTS

Labyrinth’s Heart is the third and final novel in the Rook and Rose series. Ren, Vargo, Grey, and many others have come a long way since the first book. While it was incredible to witness their transformation over the course of the trilogy, this final installment brings the simmering tensions between the upper and lower banks, the Vraszenians, Liganti, and Nadezrians to a head.

This book was everything I could hope for—and so much more. I loved every single moment. As I’ve mentioned before, the city’s tension escalates as people draw lines in the sand. New alliances form, old ones fracture, and friends become foes. But at its core, this story is about relationships; both new and long-standing. I was in awe of how the authors wrapped everything up, answering questions we've had since the beginning while still delivering plenty of twists and surprises. They had my jaw dropping and gasping at all the revelations. It was spectacular. 

Reading this book was truly bittersweet. It stirred so many emotions; I laughed, I gasped, I cried, mostly from joy at seeing how everything unfolded. It was the perfect ending to an incredible series. Even though I read and finished the trilogy in just a few months, it feels like I’ve known these characters my whole life. I can confidently say this is one of the best series I’ve ever read. I already want to start a re-read! 

If you love a complex and multifaceted world, magic system and characters with a touch of history, tarot and astrology then look no further than the Rook and Rose series. This series has all the making of a phenomenal fantasy; one you need to add on your TBR A.S.A.P!

Warbreaker by Brandon Sanderson

Title: Warbreaker

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Genre: Science Fiction

Series: N/A

Publication: June 9, 2009, 688 pages

Source: Audiobook, Libby

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Warbreaker is the story of two sisters, who happen to be princesses, the God King one of them has to marry, the lesser god who doesn't like his job, and the immortal who's still trying to undo the mistakes he made hundreds of years ago.

Their world is one in which those who die in glory return as gods to live confined to a pantheon in Hallandren's capital city and where a power known as BioChromatic magic is based on an essence known as breath that can only be collected one unit at a time from individual people.

By using breath and drawing upon the color in everyday objects, all manner of miracles and mischief can be accomplished. It will take considerable quantities of each to resolve all the challenges facing Vivenna and Siri, princesses of Idris; Susebron the God King; Lightsong, reluctant god of bravery, and mysterious Vasher, the Warbreaker.

MY THOUGHTS

I think most readers have at least heard of Brandon Sanderson or read one of his books. With his extensive catalog, I decided that this would be the year I finally started one of his works. I chose Warbreaker, which, in hindsight, probably wasn’t the best entry point. The synopsis and rave reviews promised an epic fantasy, but unfortunately, I didn’t experience that at all. There were many aspects I disliked, and I didn’t even find it mildly enjoyable.

First, the cover and title felt misleading. Siri is featured on the cover, yet the book is named after another character. In the grand scheme of the story, with so many characters, Siri and Vasher were two of the main ones, but their roles felt small and somewhat insignificant. They had plenty of page time, yet their presence barely moved the story forward. It’s hard to explain, but their impact just didn’t feel substantial.

At first, the worldbuilding intrigued me. The concept of colors and Breath as a magical system was unique; people could animate inanimate objects by drawing color from their surroundings, provided they had accumulated enough Breath. To gain Breath, they had to take it from another living person. Things became more complex with the introduction of gods and the Returned: people who had died but were brought back to life and worshiped as deities. While the idea was interesting, the execution became confusing and convoluted. The reasoning behind the Breath system and its connection to the gods was poorly explained, and when the truth was finally revealed, it felt underwhelming and inane.

Character-wise, I immediately disliked Vivenna. She was one of the dullest protagonists I’ve ever read. Though she underwent significant development over the course of the book, she remained unlikable. Siri, the younger princess who became the Hallandren Queen, fared slightly better. Initially dismissed as the useless princess, she actually grew over the course of the book. However, I didn’t feel connected to any of the characters. Vivenna, Siri, Lightsong, Vasher, Denth, Tonk Fah, the God King, and even the side characters all felt underdeveloped. None of them had a single memorable moment or defining trait. As the story progressed, I lost interest in the story and didn't care what happened to them.

The pacing was a major issue. Warbreaker was unnecessarily long, with the middle section dragging painfully. Then, after all that buildup, thousands of Lifeless marching on Idris, Vasher’s hidden army, there was no actual battle scene? The ending felt rushed, abrupt, and anticlimactic. One of the worst ending I've read in a long time.

Overall, I don’t recommend this book. It was drawn out for far too long, and I honestly wish I had DNF-ed it instead of wasting so much time, only to be left disappointed.

The Liar's Knot by M.A. Carrick

Title: The Liar's Knot

Author: M.A. Carrick

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Rook & Rose # 2

Publication: 629 pages, December 9, 2021

Source: Personal Library

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Trust is the thread that binds us . . . and the rope that hangs us.

In Nadezra, peace is as tenuous as a single thread. The ruthless House Indestor has been destroyed, but darkness still weaves through the city’s filthy back alleys and jewel-bright gardens, seen by those who know where to look.

Derossi Vargo has always known. He has sacrificed more than anyone imagines to carve himself a position of power among the nobility, hiding a will of steel behind a velvet smile. He'll be damned if he lets anyone threaten what he's built.

Grey Serrado knows all too well. Bent under the yoke of too many burdens, he fights to protect the city’s most vulnerable. Sooner or later, that fight will demand more than he can give.

And Ren, daughter of no clan, knows best of all. Caught in a knot of lies, torn between her heritage and her aristocratic masquerade, she relies on her gift for reading pattern to survive. And it shows her the web of corruption that traps her city.

But all three have yet to discover just how far that web stretches. And in the end, it will take more than knives to cut themselves free...

MY THOUGHTS

The Liar's Knot picks up a couple of months after the dramatic events of The Mask of Mirrors. The Rook and the Black Rose succeeded in saving their city, rooting out the corruption of Mettore Indestor and the Cinquerat. Renata is now officially inscribed into House Traementis’s register, Vargo has risen to nobility, and finally, we uncover the identity of the Rook! However, peace in Nadežra is fleeting. Unchecked power and unsanctioned numinatria and eisar are wreaking havoc on unsuspecting citizens, leaving them vulnerable to its taint. Once again, Ren, Grey, Vargo, and their allies must set aside their differences to protect their city.

Just when I thought I had a handle on the intricacies of this world and its characters, authors Marie Brennan and Alyc Helms proved me utterly wrong. The duo continues to expand their already rich, multifaceted world, adding more layers to both the characters and the lore. I absolutely adore the chemistry and dynamic between the central trio; Ren, Grey, and Vargo. In this sequel, while the main trio remains front and center, Tess, Giuna, and Alsius (a.k.a. Master Peabody) are given more time to shine. Tess and Giuna, once timid and reserved in the first book, show tremendous growth, evolving into strong, capable women you don't want to mess with.

That said, Master Peabody completely stole the show every time he appeared. His humor and wit had me smiling and laughing throughout, and his scenes are a true highlight. I also appreciated learning more about Vargo and Alsius’s backstory and the bond they share. Honestly, I would love to read an entire book centered on a young Vargo’s rise from runner to Knot Boss to nobleman. Just putting that out there!

This series boasts some of the best characters and world-building I’ve encountered in a long time, and I read a lot. The sheer depth of key players, hierarchies, the city’s history and clans, gods and religion, the magic system, and more is staggering. Yet, at no point did I feel confused or overwhelmed. The authors weave astrology, astronomy, numerology, and tarot seamlessly into the story, creating a world that feels both intricate and alive.

I was completely immersed in this unique world and its complex characters, only to be constantly surprised by twists and turns I never saw coming. It’s rare to find a book that can genuinely keep a reader on their toes, and this series accomplishes it masterfully.

The Liar’s Knot is a phenomenal continuation of an amazing series. It’s just as fantastic as The Mask of Mirrors, and I can’t recommend this one-of-a-kind fantasy enough. If you enjoy hidden identities, political intrigue, morally gray characters, and exceptional world-building, this series deserves a top spot on your TBR. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

I can already tell this will be my 2025 top read and new favorite series!

Full Speed to a Crash Landing by Beth Revis

Title: Full Speed to a Crash Landing

Author: Beth Revis

Genre: Sci-Fi

Series: Chaotic Orbits # 1, Novella

Publication: 192 Pages, August 6, 2024

Source: Personal Library

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Ada Lamarr may have gotten to the spaceship wreck first, but looter’s rights won’t get her far when she’s got a hole in the side of her ship and her spacesuit is almost out of air. Fortunately for her, help arrives in the form of a government salvage crew—and while they reluctantly rescue her from certain death, they are not pleased to have an unexpected passenger along on their classified mission.

But Ada doesn’t care—all that matters to her is enjoying their fine food and sweet, sweet oxygen—until Rian White, the government agent in charge, starts to suspect that there’s more to Ada than meets the eye. He’s not wrong—but he’s so pretty that Ada is perfectly happy to keep him paying attention to her—at least until she can complete the job she was sent to pull off. But as quick as Ada is, Rian might be quicker—and she may not be entirely sure who’s manipulating who until it’s too late….

MY THOUGHTS

Full Speed to a Crash Landing is a light and entertaining novella that throws readers right into the action. Ada, a scavenger stranded on her ship, is awaiting rescue, which arrives in the form of a governmental vessel on a secret mission. The story sets the stage for what I see will be a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase as everyone scrambles to find a device with the power to change humanity forever.

At just 192 pages, this novella is a quick read and serves as the opening of a trilogy. The series is structured like episodes of a favorite TV show, with each novella offering a piece of the larger narrative. While reading, I found it initially challenging to piece together what was happening. Ada’s carefree attitude felt a bit too light and cheesy for my taste at first. However, as the story unfolded, the characters and overarching plot began to take shape, tying everything together by the end.

I’ll admit I wasn’t fully hooked until the final pages, but the ending intrigued me enough to continue with the series and read the next installment. Overall, Full Speed to a Crash Landing is a decent entry point for readers new to the sci-fi genre. Its quick pace and accessible style make it an easy read that could appeal to a wide variety of readers.

A Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan

Title: A Fire in the Sky

Author: Sophie Jordan

Genre: Fantasy

Series: A Fire in the Sky # 1

Hardcover, 336 Pages 

Publication: September 24, 2024

Source: Personal Library
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Dragons are extinct. Witches are outcast. Magic is dying.

But human lust for power is immortal.

Dragon fire no longer blisters the skies over Penterra, but inside the lavish palace, life is still perilous…especially for Tamsyn. Raised in the glittering court alongside the princesses, it's her duty to be punished for their misdeeds. Treated as part of the royal family but also as the lowliest servant, Tamsyn fits nowhere. Her only friend is Stig, Captain of the Guard...though sometimes she thinks he wants more than friendship.

When Fell, the Beast of the Borderlands, descends on her home, Tamsyn’s world becomes even more dangerous. To save the pampered princesses from a fate worse than death, she is commanded to don a veil and marry the brutal warrior. She agrees to the deception even though it means leaving Stig, and the only life she’s ever known, behind.

The wedding night begins with unexpected passion—and ends in near violence when her trickery is exposed. Rather than start a war, Fell accepts Tamsyn as his bride...but can he accept the dark secrets she harbors—secrets buried so deep even she doesn’t know they exist? For Tamsyn is more than a royal whipping girl, more than the false wife of a man who now sees her as his enemy. And when those secrets emerge, they will ignite a flame bright enough to burn the entire kingdom to the bone.

Magic is not dead...it is only sleeping. And it will take one ordinary girl with an extraordinary destiny to awaken it.

MY THOUGHTS

I went into A Fire in the Sky with fresh eyes, having skipped the synopsis, and it turned out to be better than I anticipated. The reviews for the book weren’t great, but I’m so glad I gave it a chance. The main plot, featuring tropes like hidden identity, secret power, and a marriage of convenience (a personal weakness of mine), may have been done countless times before, yet I found myself invested in Tamsyn and Fell’s story.

The world-building was straightforward and easy to follow but, at the same time, fairly basic. The setting revolves around a central kingdom with Viking-esque clans where humans, witches, and dragons coexist. While intriguing, the story took a while to truly get going. Despite the month-long journey Tamsyn undertakes to reach the Borderlands with the clan, little to nothing significant happens until about the midpoint of the book.

Apart from the main couple, there was another love interest, Stig the guard. I didn’t understand why the author included him, as he added no real value to the story. He only appeared in two scenes as a plot device, and even then, his role barely advanced the narrative. On top of that, Stig came across as a creep from page one, and I never felt any real connection between him and Tamsyn.

Although the book was 336 pages long, the story felt incomplete, especially with the major cliffhanger ending. I wish there had been more interaction between Tamsyn and Fell to develop their relationship further. Despite its issues, I’m still interested in continuing their journey and look forward to the next book. I just hope it offers deeper character development and more robust world-building.

The Coven by Harper L. Woods

Title: The Coven

Author: Harper L. Woods

Genre: Urban Fantasy, Romantasy

Series: Coven of Bones # 1

Paperback, 304 Pages 

Publication: March 1, 2023

Source: Personal Library
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Revenge.

Raised to be my father’s weapon against the Coven that took away his sister and his birthright, I would do anything to protect my younger brother from suffering the same fate. My duty forces me to the secret town of Crystal Hollow and the prestigious Hollow’s Grove University―where the best and brightest of my kind learn to practice their magic free from human judgment.

There are no whispered words here. No condemnation for the blood that flows through my veins. The only animosity I face comes from the beautiful and infuriating Headmaster, Alaric Grayson Thorne, a man who despises me just as much as I loathe him and everything he stands for.

But that doesn’t mean secrets don’t threaten to tear the school in two. No one talks about the bloody massacre that forced it to close decades prior, only the opportunity it can afford to those fortunate enough to attend.

Because for the first time in fifty years, the Coven will open its wards to the Thirteen.

Thirteen promising students destined to change the world.

If the ghosts of Hollow’s Grove’s victims don’t kill them first.

MY THOUGHTS

The Coven has been on my radar for a while now, but I kept putting it off due to all the mixed reviews. However, if there's one thing you should know about me, it’s that I’m a sucker for dark academia, any book set in a school and I’m sold!

This is my first book by Woods, and I’m surprised to say I enjoyed it far more than I expected. From the very first page, I was hooked as Headmaster Throne is tasked with bringing in a late enrollee, Willow, to Hollow Grove University. However, Willow isn’t the untrained witch The Covenant thought she was; she’s far more powerful than anyone, Throne included, anticipated.

I really enjoyed the cat-and-mouse chase between Gray and Willow. At first, their budding relationship felt a bit odd, especially since he’s literally the Headmaster of the university. I also thought it was a bit too convenient how he was always in Willow’s orbit—didn’t he have a school to run? Still, I liked Willow for the most part. She talks the talk, walks the walk, and is unapologetically herself.

The ending was unexpected, and now I’m eager to see how this duology wraps up. The Coven was a quick, engaging read, perfect as an in-between book that doesn’t require much mental effort. It’s definitely brain candy, in the best way.

The Isles of the Gods by Amie Kaufman

Title: Isles of the Gods

Author: Amie Kaufman

Genre: YA Fantasy

Series: Isles of the Gods #1

Paperback, 464 pages 

Publication: May 2, 2023

Source: I received a review copy in exchange for a honest review.
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When Selly's father leaves her high and dry in the port of Kirkpool, she has no intention of riding out the winter on land while he sails to adventure in the north seas. But any plans to follow him are dashed when a handsome stranger with tell-tale magician's marks on his arm boards her ship, presenting her and the crew with a dangerous mission: to cross the Crescent Sea without detection so he can complete a ritual on the sacred Isles of the Gods. What starts as a leisure cruise will lead to acts of treason and sheer terror on the high seas, bringing two countries to the brink of war, two strangers closer than they ever thought possible and stirring two dangerous gods from centuries of slumber...

MY THOUGHTS

Isle of the Gods by Amie Kaufman is an engaging, fast-paced Young Adult fantasy that skillfully weaves together a story of magic, sleeping gods, and high-seas adventure. It's been over 500 years since the gods last walked the earth. While they may be asleep, Alinor's god, Barrica the Warrior, remains visually present for the kingdom through its prosperity. In contrast, Mellacea’s god, Macean the Gambler, lies dormant, mirroring the kingdom's struggle to keep faith amidst hard times.

Every year, the Kingdom of Alinor sends a representative to make a sacrifice to Barrica to ensure continued blessings. This year, however, was different. The Queen has chosen her brother, Prince Leander, to perform the task, but he has delayed the task until now. With tension brewing between Alinor and Mellacea, Leander embarks on a stealthy mission to the sacred Isles of the Gods, hiding his identity to avoid those who wish him harm. But when things quickly go awry, the prince, along with a magician seafarer, and historian, find themselves racing against time to reach the isles.

I was hooked from the start! Kaufman wasted no time throwing readers into the heart of the action. We met the three main protagonists early on as they board the Lizabetta and swiftly set sail for the Isles of the Gods. However, forces were already conspiring to prevent the prince from completing his mission, and the ship was attacked before the journey truly began.

The tension between Alinor and Mellacea was skillfully portrayed through five different points of view, which help readers understand both sides of the conflict. The alternating perspectives of Selly, the magician seafarer; Prince Leander; Historian Keegan; Jude, the errand boy of a crime boss; and Laskia, the crime boss’s sister, offered a well-rounded view of the unfolding events.

I’m usually not a fan of multiple POVs, but I actually enjoyed all of these characters. Each one was well-developed, with distinct personalities and motivations. They felt real, flawed, and deeply human—even Laskia, who, while despicable, had understandable reasons for her actions.

The magic system in this world was intriguing. Magicians could connect with any of the five elements, but to do so, they must offer a token or sacrifice of personal value. This exchange adds a unique layer of depth to the magic. Another fascinating aspect was the gods’ ability to create Messengers—individuals chosen to channel a god or goddess’s powers. This divine connection adds a rich element to the story.

Overall, Isle of the Gods is a captivating read, packed with thrilling moments, well-developed characters, and an inventive take on gods and magic. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment, The Heart of the World, and see where Kaufman takes these characters next!

Lady of Darkness by Melissa K. Roehrich

Title: Lady of Darkness

Author: Melissa K. Roehrich

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Lady of Darkness # 1

Paperback, 538 pages 

Publication: March 1, 2020

Source: Personal Library
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A CAGE.

Owned by a ruthless Assassin Lord, Scarlett Monrhoe and her two sisters have been trained since they were children to torture and take life. They are the most feared trio on the continent, but they are also wild and unpredictable. A tragic night has Scarlett finding herself locked away in a noble's household, trapped and forgotten, until she's ready to fall into line.

A CHOICE.

Until the day she is presented with a job. If she completes the assignment, her payment will be something she has coveted for ten years. Revenge against the Fae Fire Prince who brutally killed her mother ten years ago. Is she willing to sacrifice her ideals for retribution?

A MYSTERY.

But when children begin disappearing from her home, all her plans are put on hold as she races to save the most innocent. With the help of old friends, a jilted lover, and a mysterious newcomer who claims the magic of the Fae is possible in the mortal lands, Scarlett delves into the darkest corners of the world. Forgotten secrets will come to light, and she will discover the darkness extends far beyond her own kingdom.

MY THOUGHTS

I've started and stopped reading Lady of Darkness a handful of times over the last two years. I don't quite remember why though whether it was the book or just my mood. But I finally read and finished the book! The beginning of the book was slow, and I didn't really like Scarlet all that much. I had to remind myself that she's 18-years old or so and is basically an immature child. Ironic that she's part of an assassin syndicate and she's one of their top members. The more I read, I realized that the author's Legacy series is a spinoff or based off the same world as Lady of Darkness. And I actually read The Legacy series before reading this book. Which I guess it helped me understand the world building easier. 

I noticed many similarities between Scarlett and The Legacy's heroine, Tessa. They're literally the same character just in a different timeline. With that said, having finished Lady of Darkness, I'm not sure how I feel about Scarlet. I didn't like her at the beginning and towards the end there wasn't much improvement. I plan to continue with the series and hope that changes and we see more personal development and growth for Scarlet. I also didn't really care for Sorin. I understood the immediate obsession, borderline instalove but he read like all the other typical MMC I've read. Nothing stands out about Sorin, not even being the Fire Prince. 

I thought the plot and writing was well-done, not surprising considering how much I enjoyed Roehrich's Legacy series. I am interested in continuing this series to see what happens next with the characters after the revelation about Scarlet. Lady of Darkness while not as strong as The Legacy, I believe it could get better once I get further into the series. Overall, it was a decent series opener. 

Vesselless by Cortney L. Winn

Title: Vesselless

Author: Cortney L. Winn

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Merciless Realms # 1

Ebook, 494 pages 

Publication: March 23, 2024

Source: Kindle Unlimited
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She’s heiress to the throne. The throne her father stole from him.

Nizzara has always been able to perceive spirits better than the average caster. When she enters a deadly tournament to end her betrothal, she's determined to win without succumbing to the addictive spirit magic she channels or taking a life in the duel ring. Finding herself outmatched, Nizzara must face her fear of power and team up with Dagen—an enemy who is half-ghost and all charm—to survive the tournament.

Dagen, the last King of Zarr, was killed by Nizzara’s father ten years ago. Now a half-ghost—able to phase between his human and spirit form—he is stuck in another realm, hunting wretched souls. When his keeper offers him a chance to reclaim his freedom in exchange for Nizzara’s soul, Dagen takes the deal.

There’s only one catch: she must freely give it to him by the tournament’s end or his own soul is forfeit.

MY THOUGHTS

Vesselless has been taking the book world by storm, and I am so glad I read it! When I heard this book featured ghosts, I was intrigued, though I was also a bit skeptical about how everything would work, given that one of the main characters is a ghost. However, Winn weaves everything together perfectly.

Vesselless incorporates many tropes that readers have come to either love or hate, such as the morally grey/shadow daddy, trials and competitions, and an arranged marriage. Yet, Winn puts her own spin on these elements, offering a refreshing new take. What truly sets Vesselless apart from other books in its genre is its magical world-building and richly developed characters.

In the world of Vesselless, three main kingdoms are vying for dominance. Readers can expect political intrigue and godly influences shaping the lives of the people of Zarr, Zo, and Zem. Adding to the complexity, the nobility and their people wear vessel rings that bond the user with a spirit. These spirits not only offer protection but also grant magical abilities. Meanwhile, the infantry and guards are tied to their rulers through these rings, compelling them to obey every command.

I absolutely loved the world and characters. Without a doubt, I haven't read any book quite like Vesselless. The author skillfully integrated many elements I enjoy, with perfect pacing and writing. I immediately connected with Nizzara and Dagen, and I loved their chemistry and banter. Many readers described this as a slow burn, but in my opinion, I wish it had been even slower—I would have preferred if the leads didn't get together in the first book. Nevertheless, I enjoyed every aspect of their relationship.

While the ending was somewhat predictable, I am still excited to see what happens next. I thoroughly enjoyed Vesselless and highly recommend it to fans of Romantasy.