Mid-Year Book Freak Out 2024

Do you enjoy reading when stressed? Whether exhausted, overwhelmed, or in a health flare-up, I find reading can help. Let’s recap the highlights of 2024!

Five books I’m freaking out about include: a book that made me happy, my biggest surprise, the best audiobook, the best book of the year (so far), and a sweet, summer read!

⭐️

#1 – Book that made me happy

The House In The Cerulean Sea – By TJ Klune

TJ Klune writes with levity and humor, despite themes of neglect and abuse.

To begin, we meet Linus Baker, as he stumbles out of his sedate routine and into a haven of sorts. An orphanage on an island in the sea.

A government worker for ‘the department in charge of magical youth’, Mr. Baker is fair in assessments. As he investigates, he tries to feel out what makes this orphanage so…odd.

The children are uniquely magical, but they are regular children. The house may be secluded, but it is inviting and bright.

Does the wry, unflappable Mr. Parnassis have good reason to isolate the children? The answer is here in this heartwarming, chosen-family story.

⭐️

#2 – Biggest surprise

The Cursebound Thief – By Megan O’Russell

Coming in August 2024, book 4 will complete The Fracture Pact series, which is good enough for my personal rule not to read an unfinished series. (Ok, ok, it’s a rule I often break!)

The Cursebound Thief opens the series with Jerek Holden recruiting a team for a super secret heist. Why? To save the magical world, of course!

A recent tragedy fractured magic itself, leaving the feu–or the magical community–starved for magic. His father had theorized a solution, leaving Jerek to take over the mission. To succeed, he gathers together Ari, his chaotic platonic soulmate, a vampire thief, a werewolf who owes him a favor, a man on the inside, and his secret weapon, Grace.

Grace is just an average high school student, or so she believes before several teenagers impersonating X-men present her with a spiel about saving the world.

Even as they execute the plan, how can the team be certain that their goals are the same? Lets hope the teens can build trust by unearthing murder conspiracies and treasonous plots.

⭐️

#3 – Best audiobook

Funny Story – By Emily Henry

Funny Story by Emily Henry was super entertaining, despite the grand-scale betrayal!

Nothing like a betrayal to lay insecurities bare. Other fun effects: unlikely friends, fits of rage, and shoving emotions in the closet!

To begin, Daphne is engaged to her dream guy, Peter, decorating their new townhouse in style, and loving her children’s librarian gig. But then…Peter’s betrayal. He breaks off the engagement with an air of “whoops, my bad, but it’s for the best”. We hate Peter.

Miles’ girlfriend was Peter’s best friend-now-girlfriend. Having this heartbreak in common prompts a highly depressing roommate situation.

As she searches for her new chapter in life, Daphne opens up to her coworker, Ashley, and gets to know her new town with the help of Miles.

When her deadbeat dad turns up, abandonment issues in tow, Daphne questions whether she is willing to trust any one place as her forever home.

Julia Whelan’s audio performance of Daphne’s sardonic wit is excellent! Wow. Miles came to life, too, a gruff vocalization of a man discovering that emotions exist. 10/10

⭐️

#4 – Best Book Of 2024 so far

The Vanishing Half – By Brit Bennett

The Vanishing Half is a story in halves, the leavers and the left. Brit Bennett has done emotional heavy-lifting, afflicting convoluted characters with the complexities of joy, fear, comfort, and pain.

We can best appreciate this masterpiece by sitting in each heavy moment. Feel for a twin waking to find her other half gone. Feel for ungrieved and needless loss. Feel for ignorance. For loneliness.

Each woman is a main character. Love isn’t only for a story’s end. Maybe it’s the start, or the middle, before the worst happened. Maybe love is what happens when you walk straight through fear, unblinking.

The author hurdles between past and present to visit twins Desiree and Stella, Jude, Kennedy, Loretta, and Early the hunter.

A phantom limb of a story, The Vanishing Half hunts for lost truths. I sense that, if I sit in the story, there is more yet to feel about life and love.

⭐️

#5 – A Sweet Summer Read

A Fragile Enchantment – Allison Saft

Always have on hand a cute romantic fantasy with creative magical elements!

Naimh aims to secure her family’s future by taking a lucrative offer to dress a royal wedding party.

However, Niamh has underestimated the political unrest between her own people and their former tyrant’s successor. Can she keep her head down? Will her ability to weave emotion into elaborate attire be used for a nefarious plot?

Why does the prince, Kit, refuse to prepare for his own wedding (and why is that Niamh’s problem)?

Find out in this absorbing tale of desperation, accountability, and self-acceptance by Allison Saft. (Additionally, we have representation of a fictional chronic illness, which I love to see!)

Conclusion

I’m buzzing from these reviews! This feeling is the opposite of stress. After a workweek full of computer troubleshooting and answering disgruntled emails, I am celebrating doing what I love: reading and writing! Thanks for keeping me company.

I hope you’ll share recommendations for happy, fun – new or old – books!

Thank you for reading. 💙

• Mid-Year Book Freak Out 2024
• My Comfort Reads
• Dating Robyn the Weird
• This Again, a poem
• Checking In

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

What does one do in ‘The Midnight Library’? Nora Seed might be the first person ever to find out.

This morning, I am listening to (loud) music. Weezer’s new album (SZNZ: Autumn). I’m taking a few moments in time to feel deep gratitide for Lucy and Mon, who read ‘The Midnight Library’ with me. What a journey!

Now that we're together
We're gonna sing you a song
Let these steel strings
Take you home to me
And let yourself be soothed
By the sound of drums
Climb down the stairs and 
out the door
'Til your feet are on the earth
- The Sound Of Drums (2022)
Weezer

Content warning: this post references mental health topics, indirectly (suicide) and directly (depression and anxiety). Take care.

Nora Seed

The first thing you need to know about Nora Seed is she studied philosophy. Yeah. I can relate–I’m a deep thinker, too. It can be destructive. Secondly, she is quite lonely. And thirdly, she is creative. She used to write songs and play keyboard in a band. She used to want to write a novel. She used to imagine a lot of things.

Image credit: Chris Coady, inews.co.uk

So, what does Nora do in The Midnight Library?

1. Listen

Nora has been listening, and the signs are telling her the world is better off without her. It’s sad, but she’s accepting it today.

She wakes up from a sad bottle of wine to a metaphysically impossible library, stuck interminably at midnight.

Her childhood librarian (and friend) Mrs. Elm introduces Nora to a curated collection of lives, pretty on display in rows and rows. You can have any of them, she promises. Start with one.

Will Nora listen to these alternate lives? What will she learn from the many paths not taken?

‘There are more possible ways to play a game of chess than the amount of atoms in the observable universe.’ -The Midnight Library

I listen.

I am intrigued by the idea of exploring a different major life choice! What if? What if we chose differently? Took a risk? Moved bravely to another country? Or invested our precious time differently? Studied writing? Learned a language? I’m listening, Matt Haig.

2. Regret

I don’t believe in regret. There’s no editing out the good and bad from the results. This is life. It’s a mess of mistakes and question marks. We’ll never know why some paths fell away. I see the incomparable view from the peak and I regret none of the thorn slashes, aching muscles or uncertainty.

Take a look at where you
started from
And where you are today
You climbed mountains
Swam oceans
You got knocked down
And kept goin'
- A Little Bit Of Love (2022)
Weezer

Nora’s regret

Second-guessing has become Nora Seed’s favorite passtime. What could she have done to not lose her brother’s love? She should have moved to Australia with Izzy as she’d once planned. She should have gone through with her wedding. Should, should, should. Not once does she think, what can I do to change this? And I understand. She forgets how powerful choice can be.

‘Sometimes if we fill that lack with something else the original want disappears entirely. Maybe you have a lack problem rather than a want problem. Maybe there is a life that you really want to live.’ -The Midnight Library

3. Choose

Nora must choose a book from The Library and give it a fair chance. Will it improve on her life? Replace it? Will it replace her with a better version of Nora Seed?

Yeah, I'm gonna be 
somebody else
Be somebody else
The opposite of me
- The Opposite Of Me (2022)
Weezer

I choose.

When I choose a book to read, it’s an opportunity and a sacrifice. Time spent reading is time away from my everyday life. It’s a chance to glean wisdom, I suppose. Or to discover joy that I can then share with others!

4. Be inspired

Nora shares music with newly inspired folks as they buy their first guitar. For those who refresh their passion buying guitar picks and sheet music, she distributes potential joy. It’s just a dull job at a music shop.

When Nora examines her regrets, she notices a theme: abandoned inspiration. Why had she decided not to aim high? Olympic swimming, writing, performing with her band, pursuing glaciology (and saving the earth from global warming)- what had become of all her passion? Could she find it again and follow through?

‘To be part of nature was to be part of the will to live.’ -The Midnight Library

My inspiration.

Music sculpts new structures from my mutable essence. When someone else is vulnerable, talented, genius and generous… sharing in the product overwhelms me with joy. It’s not a job or hobby for me. Actually, it’s bigger than me.

5. Hope

Lately, I find hope in my past because the future seems uncertain. I’m privileged, I know. I get paid to work with people I care about. I live with my favorite person in the world. I’m also living with black ropes constraining my movement. Anxiety. Ropes that say, “can’t, shouldn’t, and what if it hurts?”

Nora’s hope.

Nora has depression. “Everyone has mental health”, she reminds her boss. But she loses her job. That’s when the path forward begins to disintegrate. What is her future? What is she good for? And truly, depression has stolen the answer from her. Her memories have warped so she can’t see how much she has survived and achieved- no, not achieved- offered to the world! The music and friendship, talent and kindness.

Corrosion in the wires 
Makes it hard for me to understand
Part of me is curious, part of me 
is too afraid to ask
- What Happens After You (2022)
Weezer

My Review

In the space between seconds in time, Nora has the unheard of option to change everything. The question is, how will this choice affect Nora’s original self? What is she truly leaving behind in the unemployed, fiancée-less, feline-less, friendless woman, besides regret?

Matt Haig leads readers by the hand through a surreal and existential challenge. Mental health is portrayed without many clinical terms, instead feeling out truth and testing lies. ‘The Midnight Library’ is difficult at times. The constant shift from life to life, reality to reality, breaks life apart to build it up again. It feels breathless and dizzying. It feels revolutionary, as we face Nora’s fears and somehow survive.

My friends and I may be divided across the world, but our book club is a source of joy and inspiration. We are branching out from Jane Austen and other classics, this time to share in surrealism. I’m so grateful to have delved into ‘The Midnight Library’ with my two reading pals.

We often struggle and we suffer because life hurts. Yet we persevere. We have built upon our shared love of reading! What is life for if not to share? Books, music, time, truth – we share it all, because that’s what living is. That is my lesson from ‘The Midnight Library’.

Feeding on the fire
Shattering those iron bars
Through the sky 
like shooting stars
Wild at Heart
You got me wild at heart
- Wild At Heart (2022)
Weezer

If you enjoyed this post, you may also like: Mental Health In Life And Fiction!

• Mid-Year Book Freak Out 2024
  Five books I’m freaking out about include: a book that made me happy, my biggest surprise, the best audiobook, the best book of the year, and a sweet, summer read!
• My Comfort Reads
  Coffee and books…these are the fun things in life!
• Dating Robyn the Weird
  I broke up with someone, for the first and only time, at age sixteen. It’s a weird story.
• This Again, a poem
  Are we back to this again / Am I sorry for being weak
• Checking In
  I have some thoughts.

Mid-Year Book Freak Out (2022)

2022 is the year of Percy Jackson! Production has begun for the PJO Disney+ series. The ‘Riordanverse’ is alive with anticipation. But, wait! I promise not to only blog about that! I really, really believe I can talk about other books, too. 😅

*Questions altered from last year’s tag!

Best book you’ve read so far in 2022

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

I found this sweet gem while looking for a funny, honest, relatable story! What could be more relatable to a fangirl like myself than Cath, an anxious young woman with trust issues and an obsession with fictional characters that exceeds all else?

Like a ninja, Cath slips into advanced writing classes. Also like a ninja, she manages to avoid making new friends – especially with her surly college roommate. Oh well, she has thousands of people depending on her to post Simon Snow fan fiction! No doubt Cath’s new peers would judge her for this, as does her twin, Ren. Or, is she also a ninja at hiding from the truth?

Favorite new (to me) author

Rainbow Rowell

How excellent is this? I’m almost wordless. ‘Fangirl’ is a YA novel about transitioning to college and independence. Cath, a creative, anxious introvert, is my new best friend. Rainbow is my new idol! She writes with an adoration for language! She writes worlds within worlds. Super-imposed realities.

I’m expecting to stay in a contemporary YA mood for a few more weeks…maybe months. Library audiobooks FTW! After Fangirl, I’m waiting on Eleanor & Park. 😆

Newest favorite character

Magnus Chase

Magnus lives life in heightened awareness of dangers to his soft heart. His senses are just different to those of others. He’s deeply empathetic. Once Magnus Chase is your friend you will never feel alone.

This is the first character in the Riordanverse I deeply identify with, surprisingly enough. He’s a blonde male teen, sure, but who cares? Maybe I’m also a child of a Norse god! ☺️

Best sequel you’ve read so far in 2022

The Ship of the Dead (Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard #3)

Ahhhhh! I keep going back to read favorite moments! So many epic moments are hilarious while also plumbing the depths of emotion. I love everyone. What are side characters? Character growth for everyone!

Too, the worlds never disappoint! Riordan invites us into worlds of Valkyries, Elfs, Dwarfs, Giants, and those awkward humans. Don’t forget the pop culture references. Thor is not the Thor of Marvel movies, and is Taylor Swift human or elf?! 😲

Book that made you happy

The Son of Neptune (Heroes of Olympus #2)

Three of a kind, these questers bring me joy! First, there’s Percy. He’s a sassy hero, even when out of his element. Frank Zhang and Hazel Levesque lead the way to Alaska. They are the two softest, squishiest cuties of Camp Jupiter – but powerful enough to impress Percy. Do not underestimate!

Biggest surprise

The Mark Of Athena (Heroes of Olympus #3)

I didn’t realize before how much of this series is written around romantic attachments! It’s clear to me now why the relationships seem stunted. Is any conflict resolved, really? Or am I just told that it is?

Don’t worry, I still love Percabeth. I just wish that the switching between POVs was more purposeful. And can we not with love triangles ever again? 😬

Biggest disappointment

The House Of Hades (Heroes of Olympus #4)

Trauma-driven character development is disappointing. I’ve heard it said that a certain side character’s *traumatic experience* should have been written from their own POV. From another POV, the narrative came across exploitive at worse, pointless at best. This series is lacking that friendship and teamwork that Riordan developed gradually throughout Percy Jackson and the Olympians.

Favorite fictional friendship*

Aza Holmes and Daisy

These two. Daisy surprised me by showing up for Aza in ways that indicate maturity and emotional intelligence. I appreciated the security of their friendship, even while tough issues (like finances and health) challenged their bond. Also, ‘Holmsey’ is the sweetest nickname!

Book that made you cry

Solitaire by Alice Oseman

Solitaire played at cute then gutted me with jabs of emotion. The pacing is real strange. There’s a lot left unresolved.

But the mysterious entity ‘Solitaire’ is genuinely my favorite thing! Solitaire is breeding rebellion using flashes of music and tech sabotage. It’s stupid. That’s not how people communicate – or, wait, is it? Whoever Solitaire is, they’re communicating the way they know how and it’s futile. I. Feel. This. 😭

It was depressing. Maybe don’t read it if you’re already in a crisis, okay? #selfcare

Best Audiobook Production*

Simon Vs The Homo Sapien Agenda by Becky Abertalli

Production value 10/10! Simon is funny, kind and earnest – as is the performance of this sweet teen romance. It’s impossible not to relate as a former teenager who had to deal with cliques and hormones and family drama. And actual drama. #theatrenerds

It’s interesting to read a teen drama where the main character is aware of their own privilege, actively struggling to connect. The arc follows Simon as a friend/son/brother becoming a kinder and more self-accepting person (humor intact!)

Simon’s voice is unique. Even if he swears a lot (which I usually hate), I still wish the heroes in Heroes Of Olympus felt more like this.

Didn’t live up to the hype*

The Red Pyramid (The Kane Chronicles #1) by Rick Riordan

This is now the only series in the Riordanverse I’ve not yet read. It’s been slow going, even though I love Ancient Egypt stuff and I had just enjoyed Moon Knight! Maybe book 2 gets better. I just keep forgetting about Carter and Sadie. Sigh. But I won’t give up on them.

New release you haven’t read yet, but want to read

Book Lovers by Emily Henry (Published May 2022)

It would be a meet-cute if not for the fact that they’ve met many times and it’s never been cute. If Nora knows she’s not an ideal heroine, Charlie knows he’s no hero, but as they are thrown together again and again—in a series of coincidences no editor worth their salt would allow—what they discover might just unravel the carefully crafted stories they’ve written about themselves.

From Goodreads, book description – Book Lovers, Emily Henry

Could this read any cuter? If I could pour it directly into my brain I would. (And it’s not even YA.)

What books do you need to read by the end of the year?

With Club Austen I am reading this Matt Haig novel with weekly discussions. It’s a journey!

The Midnight Library – Matt Haig

Of course, I won’t stop reading Heroes of Olympus. I love the final book in this series, so much.

The Blood Of Olympus (Heroes of Olympus #5) – Riordan

And for Jane Austen July…I’d like to try Sanditon, although which version to choose?

The Kane Chronicles trilogy – Riordan

This Rainbow Rowell audiobook is loaded up. Do your worst, Rowell! 😭

Eleanor & Park – Rainbow Rowell

Whew. And now: back to following Percy Jackson Fan Art on Instagram. You know where to find me! #fangirling

More book freak outs? 2020 ~ 2021

More fangirling? ~ Percy Jackson Playlist #SpoilerAlert

A Victober Bookdragon Hoard

Victober. I thought it was a spooky bookish event. I thought I’d need to read Dracula! Or Wuthering Heights (again).

I was wrong. See, Victorian literature isn’t all gothic thrill and desperate heroism. Morality may be expounded; characters self-aware or heedless, as well as the heroic. I have found this genre to be structured, inspirational, domestic – or a combination thereof. And sure, it’s often suspenseful!

The origin: Victober was created as a BookTube reading challenge!

I suspect it’s time to hoard some Victorian classics! Thanks to Club Austen, I’ve already discovered several Victorian novels that have transformed me. 🖤

A bookdragon needs to explore treasure from every era.

A Tale Of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

Dickens describes hope and strength in the midst of poverty. His artful method assigns meaning to the grotesque; poetry to the mundane.

A frenchman rejects his inheritance, dedicating his life to the moral high road. Meanwhile, an englishman is “recalled to life” from The Bastille prison. A slew of innocent, guilty, and morally grey characters merge in a maelstrom of corruption and revolution.

Love

Suspense and secrecy unravel slowly and tantalizingly to reveal the truth in a shocking revelation.

Like

Fiction based on a real-life historical event: the French Revolution!

The oppression by the French aristocracy reaches boiling point. The peasant class rises as one to revolt. Even an old school textbook version of events horrified my teenaged self. Experienced through the eyes of Dickens’ ink-for-blood characters, it is devastating.

Hate

Monsters. To read about monstrous people and their dehumanizing acts which incited revolutionaries to violence is horrifying.

North And South by Elizabeth Gaskell

Margaret Hale is in transition. The wedding of her cousin marks the date she is to return to the love-filled parsonage where her dear parents reside. She is then quickly and unexpectedly transplanted again, this time to a strange location.

Now in a factory town, culture shock wars with the upright Margaret’s dignity. She confronts her biases as she meets the locals, including successful businessman John Thornton. Meanwhile, her quick eye and capable mind unravel the workings of her new, fascinating home.

Love

A strong female who is treated as capable by all who understand her. Margaret is deferred to by her parents. She carries herself with rational calm. By contrast, the whining and giddy females in her life tend to lift our queen high above all else.

Even today, it is notable that a female main character should be her own savior.

Like

Tolerance. When the doubter, the believer, and the dissenter can work together it proves love conquers all! I like to see a productive debate over law, religion, and faith. Take note, 21st century readers!

I would compare Miss Hale to Jane Austen’s Elinor, whose strength was also necessary and self-perpetuating.

Hate

When a wonderful character is only introduced at the end of a book! Mr. Bell ties everyone together (I won’t say how). His witty wordplay adds sauciness to a languid stretch and develops every character he meets. He is gold.

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

David Copperfield is a fatherless child, happily cared for by his youthful mother and her devoted housekeeper, Peggotty. When his new stepfather sends the sensitive boy to school, David finds protection under a charismatic elder student with his own dubious motives.

Life veers down the darkest of paths when David after his mother’s tragic death. However, he seems born to work hard. He has memorized stories and plays the hero time and again; the dutiful nephew, the kind stranger, the devoted employee. Will he realize that real life does not always deliver the hero from harm?

Love

The found family trope! Specifically, the eccentric found family: Mr. Dick, Betsey, Trotwood, and Little Blossom! I live for this flawed, saintly, loyal crew.

Like

A fake memoir. I don’t think this is an unusual trope in Victorian lit. (My favorite character of all time, Jane Eyre, was written in similar style!) They say Charles Dickens incorporated much of his own experience into this novel. I am sorry to hear it! Mr. Copperfield’s life could fill three lifetimes with heartache and drama!

Hate

A naïve main character. Time after time after time, David falls for a trick. A manipulation. A duplicitous friendship. I just want him to stand up for himself once.

So that was my October. I look forward to next year’s celebration of Victorian novels!

Above are the novels I’m coveting for my growing hoard. What are your favorite Victorian authors, novels, characters?

Thank you for reading! 🖤

Mid-Year Book Freakout (2021)

Is it June, already?! There’s a heat wave coming this week, and I’m ready to hole up indoors and enjoy writing about some books. What do you like to read in the summertime?

This year has been atypical so far. I feared that my vision was worsening, but a trip to the Optometrist proved only that my eyes were chronically dry. Thanks to audiobooks, podcasts, and new music, I have survived the weeks of mandatory rest for my eyes. A series of treatments later, and I’m ready to get back to my ever-lengthening TBR list! 🐉📚

#1 Best Book You’ve Read So Far In 2021

A Tale Of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

A Tale Of Two Cities was just so poignant, and I need more! Charles Dickens’ voice is saturated with irony. The best part was experiencing this tale for the first time with my brilliant book club friends, Lucy, Mon and Maria! We are finishing up Oliver Twist soon, and I’m sensing another fast favourite. ❤️

Free audiobook available on YouTube via Librivox.org

#2 Best Sequel You’ve Read So Far In 2021

Ice and Sky (Ena Of Ilbrea #3) by Megan O’Russell

This is a story of survival. Survival for Ena, the enduring main character, and survival of a people who have been crushed to the brink of existence.
Ilbrea is a desolate place, but special folks carve out their own havens and make their stand against evil, and that makes this story worthwhile.

#3 New Release You Haven’t Read Yet But Want To

Tower of Nero (The Trials Of Apollo #5) by Rick Riordan

Apollo is changing. I didn’t know gods could do that. I guess it’s the immortality-thing. Thankfully, in this final instalment of this series, Apollo is still mortal!

He is awkward, sullen, and he is still playing servant to a snarky girl called Meg. Why not try to confront his mortal enemy? This can only end well.

#4 Most anticipated release for the second half of the year

All Ways by Kelly Coons

“With humor and warmth, author Kelly Coons introduces neurotypical readers to the rich interpersonal lives of [two autistic] people, challenging biases about autism. At the same time, Autistic readers will feel at home with Andreas and York as they come to terms with their “differences” and move boldly toward their future.” —About ‘All Ways’ by Kelly Coons

#5 Biggest disappointment

Ready Player Two by Ernest Cline

Ugh, I don’t want to talk about it. (See my review at Robearsbooks)

#6 Biggest surprise

The Real Doctor Will See You Shortly: A Physician’s First Year by Matt McCarthy

This memoir was described to me as a funny, candid account of a doctor’s intern year. I’d been listening to a Scrubs podcast and hoped that this memoir would fit in with the humor/medical mood!

It was entertaining, sure. But it was also surprisingly compelling and full of human connection. Twists and turns. Dr. McCarthy recollects his excruciating progress through thirty hour shifts, stale food and trauma. Struggling to connect with patients without losing touch with reality, Matt is gradually forged into a Real Doctor.

I listened to this Podcast on Spotify, but here’s the main link. So funny, and interesting with behind-the-scenes details! Fake Doctors Real Friends with Zach and Donald Definitely check out the episodes guest starring Judy and John C! ❤️❤️❤️ #fangirling

#7 Favorite new author (debut or new to you)

Megan O’Russell

My favorite part of reading her books is that I never want to stop. It’s actually painful not to have the next book in the series! At least, I can explore her other series while I wait! (See my blog post about her latest, here.)

• 

• 

Suzanne Collins

I knew to expect excellence from The Hunger Games author, but her substantial, poetic prose surprised and impressed me! (See my blog post reviewing The Hunger Games and more…here.)

#8 Newest fictional crush

The Code For Love And Heartbreak By Jillian Cantor

This extra-sweet teen romance is loosely based on Jane Austen’s Emma! This Emma is a talented but socially awkward student, rather than a social queen. Why does she care about matchmaking? Well, she has to invent an app for her coding club, and—well, you’ll see!

#9 Newest favorite character

Javier (from vN: The Machine Dynasty #1 by Madeline Ashby)

Javier is an adult android, created specifically to save the earth from global warming. That may be the reason he was born, and what he is good at, but can he do more? And how long can he keep outrunning (and out-jumping) the violence and injustice?

Javier is supporting character to Amy in this science fiction thriller about artificial intelligence. The plot takes place in a dystopian system in which one religion monopolizes artificial intelligence. The extreme religious teachings affect all people, both organic and synthetic.

#10 Book that made you cry

Let Me Hear A Rhyme by Tiffany D. Jackson

You know that I love books about music! The poetic lyrics interspersed throughout intensified my empathy for the teenage characters as they grieved for their friend.

“Korey Jackson, Nile Bullock, Adenrele Ojo, and Adam Lazarre-White take turns narrating this young adult title set in the ’90s in New York City. Each narrator brings a unique and heartbreaking voice to life. The story follows two best friends who try to honor the life and rapping talent of a friend who has died. With the help of his sister, they hatch a scheme to make him famous from beyond the grave by getting him a record deal. The quartet of narrators has such distinct voices that the story plays out like an audio drama. These captivating performances will keep listeners glued to their earbuds. This is an audiobook that begs to be binged.” —audiofilemagazine.com

#11 Book that made you happy

Tone Deaf by Olivia Rivers

This is a special book. The author wanted to create a main character living with a realistic disability. Compared to the often romanticized dysfunction common to YA, these characters strike me as realistically sincere, and flawed, survivors.

Here, we have a book with a musical theme, but primarily we follow Ali as she fights for her life. After reading the final paragraph, I then jumped back to page one on my Kindle, starting it over again! It was just too emotional to feel everything in that first read.

#12 Most beautiful book you’ve bought (or received) this year

I had lent my friend a book a while back, and recently she gave me a heads up that she was mailing it back to me. Great! As it turned out, she was using this as an excuse to send me a gift:

A handmade book. Wow. Made from up-cycled material, this journal could be used as a scrapbook, travel journal, or maybe even a poetry book. I imagine that Jane Austen herself possessed a book such as this to record her thoughts.

• 

• 

#13 What books do you need to read by the end of the year?

• I will definitely continue to read Charles Dickens.
• I’ve just started another O’Russell series, it’s kind of Riordan meets Rowling! The Tale Of Bryant Adams
• I’m excited to slip back into the world of androids via the sequel to vN …when I’m ready.
• Did you know about Jane Austen July? Apparently it’s time for more Austen obsession, and I’m here for it!!

There’s no pressure here, though. Slowing down this year has heightened my appetite for both fiction and non, and I feel blessed with abundance! Please comment to recommend any great audiobooks or podcasts (whether or not they’re about books). I love to learn, and I need some laughs.

Thank you for reading. Stay safe! 💙

A Bookdragon Hoard ~ Children’s Stories

Are you a child at heart? It’s awesome, isn’t it? Instead of lamenting all the books we didn’t get to read as kids, we can read everything we want – and then take a nap!

It’s good for adults to read children’s fiction periodically. It teaches us humility. To paraphrase Professor Dumbledore, age is guilty if it forgets what it was like to be young. Here are four kids books that I love and recommend. I hope you check them out!

#1. Planet Earth Is Blue

— Nicole Panteleakos

Why Read: This book invites us to examine how much the world has changed, yet how much farther we have to go when it comes to accepting differences and treating everyone as equal.

The first novels I read as a child were historical fiction. This beautiful story about 12-year-old Nova counting down to the Challenger launch has me feeling nostalgic for that time.

This story navigates serious topics including Autism and the foster care system. However, the plot focuses mainly on the relationship between two sisters, Bridget and Nova. Nova is a thinker, not a talker. Apart from her sister for the first time, she struggles to adapt to an entirely new environment.Nova is a thinker, not a talker.

Communication is examined as being diverse and unique to every person, requiring patience and a willingness to connect. Nova and Bridget have always used music and facts about space travel to communicate. As they share an increasing anticipation for the historic launch, Nova draws closer to her classmates and community.

#2. The Secret Garden

— Frances Hodgson Burnett

Why Read: Be reminded of the natural connection we have to our environment and all living creatures. Not only children, but humans of every age, can experience rebirth and discovery!

Mary Lennox finds herself newly an orphan and sent to live with an uncle who is a stranger to her. She is thrown into quite a new world. Not an unpleasant world, but one with strange folk with rather interesting ideas: The English moor is a beautiful place. A robin bird makes a loyal friend. A smile makes a face look nice!

But the strangest idea of all begins with the mysterious crying in the night and a doorless garden which seems to inspire a certain magic! The Secret Garden is a beautifully written story of redemption and the power, found within all living things, to grow and change.

“Is the spring coming?” he said. “What is it like?”… “It is the sun shining on the rain and the rain falling on the sunshine…”

—The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

#3. Dragon Rider

— Cornelia Funke

Why Read: Return to the basics of fantasy reading! Recall the first dragon you ever met in a book. Root for unlikely friends and their quest to overcome evil!

Firedrake is a young dragon who sets off on a quest to find the acclaimed Rim of Heaven after learning that his home–and all the dragons that live in it–are in grave danger of a man-induced flood that will destroy their home.

We learn that many friendly magical creatures exist, but few trust humans. Can a dragon, a brownie, and a human boy survive a quest for the fabled haven? Or will they fail to save the last of the silver dragons from a heartless monster?

The fantastic voice of Brendan Fraser brings a great range of characters to life in this audiobook!

#4. The Mary Poppins Collection

— P.L. Travers

Why Read: Lets remind ourselves that childhood is a state of mind, and adulthood is just a trick played on us when ordinary life takes over!

The Mary Poppins Collection centres around the Banks family of 17 Cherry Tree Lane and their adventures with their on-again-off-again nanny. She is Elegant, Stylish and Proper. I’d follow her “to the stars and back!”

Mary Poppins leads the children to and from jarringly unreal places to meet odd and fascinating folks within the terribly normal setting of London, England. The thrill is in the contrast between the average and the uncanny! Somewhere, squashed between the tedium of weekly errands and the scent of fresh-baked gingerbread, is proof magic exists.

Is there such a thing as children’s fiction? P.L. Travers doubts it. (Quote from a lecture, “On Not Writing For Children”)

Believe it or not, I read all of these stories for the first time as an adult. And I loved them! True of many examples of children‘s lit, the lessons and imagery are all the more potent because they are written to appeal to youthful sensibilities.

Do you have a favorite children’s book that you first discovered as an adult, either on your own or with the kids in your life? Please comment below! Thanks for reading!

Gushing About Heart of Smoke

Guys, I might’ve gotten carried away diving into fictional worlds and overshot to outer-space. Brain melting. Can’t stop spinning. 💫

Translation: I discovered an author who writes exceptional young adult fantasy, sci-fi and adventure. And she has four series already completed – sparkly and new! Am I dead?!😵

Megan O’Russell is a world traveler, professional musical theatre performer, lyricist, playwright and indie author!

Ena of Ilbrea Series

“Ember and Stone” is where it all began for me. It was actually included in a free trial combo called “When Worlds Begin”. Before I knew it, I’d binged all the way through the Ena Of Ilbrea series. The suspense pulled me onward as the plot unfolded. Assassins. Spies. Magical abilities. A powerhouse woman with snarkiness for days! Best of all, each character came alive in the brilliant dialogue. 🤩

Mood: Do you want a strong female main character? Still in the realm of YA, but exploring more mature themes? An immersive and cutthroat series with hidden magic, forbidden love, and rebellion?

Girl Of Glass Series

Exhausted and obsessed, I immediately found another series from the Megan O’Russell. “Girl Of Glass”, a coming of age story, features a slightly younger protagonist. Nola and her pure heart are infinitely dear to me! She’s a member of a privileged class, living in protective Domes, which makes for an intriguing dystopian perspective. We’ve got teen drama, betrayal, vampires, zombies – you’ll love it!

Mood: Do you want a high-stakes plot, in a futuristic society where climate change and disease ravage humanity? Oh, and a love triangle? If you loved the Divergent series by Veronica Roth (which I did) then you’ll get into this adventure!

Heart Of Smoke (Book #1)

I was dying of fantasy-adventure overload. OF COURSE I fangirled about it!! Megan saw my review on Instagram, or my blog, and reached out to suggest her new series. Wait. WHAT?

That’s right, the Heart Of Smoke series follows Lanni, a teen from the exploited class in the same world as Girl Of Glass. The characters, including the stubborn Lanni, are just as powerful and compelling! 😍

Mood: Do you want a fast-paced, grim tale about the bitter, angry citizens whose lives mean little to nothing, and a secret plot to exact vengeance? If you enjoyed clenching your teeth through James Dashner’s The Maze Runner, I think you can handle it!

Lanni works in one of the factories run by The Incorporation, supplying the Domes. She takes care of her sister, often stealing and lying to protect young Mari. Even their own mother has secrets. Suddenly, it seems, Lanni and Mari are offered a one-way ticket out of the burning hole they call home. How can they leave their mother?

Every moment is tense with fear and danger. Lanni is poised to play along with whatever elaborate plan keeps Mari breathing. But doubt creeps in as we race toward the end of book one. Who is really pulling the strings behind Lanni’s rescue?

What Next?

Help! I can’t choose! 😅

Heart Of Smoke was fast-paced and intense! That cliff-hanger, though!! It’ll be over a week (April 22, 2021) before the new sequel, Soul Of Glass, is released. I’m so psyched up, maybe I’ll read book one again! 😂

Alternatively, I have another YA series by O’Russell called The Tethering. Magic? Check. Teen angst? Check. Romance? Goodness, I hope so!

Or, The Geek’s Guide To Wizarding Mastery In One Epic Tome: The Complete Tale Of Bryant Adams. Whew, that’s a title! It’s four books about a nerdy wizard who’s always the sidekick, with quirky humor and hopefully some crazy-awesome magic!

So, the options are to read Heart Of Smoke again, binge a new magical series…or continue to drift aimlessly through nothingness!

Eventually, I’ll choose one and savour the adventure! Authors like Megan O’Russell are real treasures. What’s the last series you discovered that collapsed your whole freaking universe? I’d love to know!

Thanks for reading! ❤️

Books I Want To Read (But Don’t Want To Read) Tag

Hello, happy Sunday! I’ve been working on a different blog post, but decided not to rush that one. Instead, I got inspired by a book tag from Zezee with books, originally created by Jamishelves.

Have you ever wanted to read a book, but somehow simultaneously NOT wanted to pick it up? Sigh. Please tell me you can relate to this bookdragon problem. The following are 8 of my “kinda don’t wanna read” titles from my TBR!

1. A book that you feel you need to read because everyone talks about it

Go Set A Watchman by Harper Lee

I’ve wanted to read this since it was released! How interesting that the author of the classic, powerful ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ has at length written a second novel! What do you suppose Scout is up to? (No spoilers, I’ve still got to read it!) 😉

2. A book that’s really long

The Lord Of The Rings trilogy by J.R. Tolkien

The films are amazing. Tolkien’s works are precursors to modern fantasy! I must read them. I have the audiobooks, too. But… I’m scared to begin and then fail at this legendary trilogy.

3. A book you’ve owned / had on your TBR for too long

The Life Of Elves by Muriel Barbery

I adore a deeply introspective novel. After enjoying Muriel Barbery’s ‘The Elegance of the Hedgehog’, I was psyched to buy another of her novels! The cover of ‘The Life of Elves’ is as gorgeous as the title. Why haven’t I progressed past chapter one? I honestly don’t know.

4. A book that is ‘required’ reading (eg, school text, really popular classic – something you feel obligated to read!)

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

Also, Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury and Animal Farm by George Orwell. I don’t remember everything I read in high school, but I definitely not these! To be honest, it’s usually movies like ‘Easy A’ with Emma Stone, or tv series’s like Gilmore Girls that reference such books and make me wonder what I’m missing.

5. A book that intimidates you

The Yellow Wall-Paper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

I’ve a great interest in mental health. Memoirs are brave efforts to shed light on previously taboo subjects. It’s also great to see well-researched fiction relating to tough health issues. This work is special in that its 63-page account of postpartum depression shocked society, prompting change in the mental health industry.

6. A book that you think might be slow

The Burning Page Genevieve Cogman

This is book three of ‘The Invisible Library’ series. The first two books boasted of gorgeous imagery, an elaborate, imaginative premise, and intriguing personalities! But… there was no meat to it. No tension to keep me plunging onward. Urgency without substance. Though this steampunk, spy, fantasy series had potential to become a favorite, I don’t regret stopping at book two.

7. A book you need to be in the right mood for

Vampire Academy (#1) by Richelle Meade

After my recent Twilight saga binge, I was wondering if there might be a better YA vampire series out there. This one seems promising. Great reviews on Goodreads! But I should be in the mood for an addictive, suspenseful vampire romance before I buy and binge this six-book series…right?

8. A book you’re unsure if you will like

Juvenilia by Jane Austen

I am a Janeite. A reader, re-reader and analyzer of her six published novels. Austen’s incomplete stories, like Sanditon, and childhood writing efforts have also been made available since her death. Her childhood stories make up Juvenilia. I’m so afraid to ruin what I’ve got going on with my beloved Jane that I’ve never read Juvenilia. I’ve heard that it should have a trigger warning!

There you have it, guys! And my battery is getting low, so I’ll post this now. Please comment! And I’ll be finishing my A Bookdragon Hoard ~ YA Dystopia post very soon!

Thanks for reading! 🖤 You’re officially tagged to post your own list! Are there any on my list that you think I shouldn’t miss?

A Bookdragon Hoard ~ Werewolf Fantasy

Werewolves howling at the full moon, trapped somewhere between human and beast. The appeal is foreign to me, although I do acknowledge that Remus Lupin of the Harry Potter series is a hero, an inspiration and the best teacher of all time! But…aren’t werewolves usually bad guys, feral, hungry and hunted?

To answer this question, I have scoured my e-reader, and Goodreads, and Google for the top choices in werewolf lit! I discovered a wide range, from unimaginative teen romance to grim-dark supernatural thrillers. From the wild wolf to the hybrid wolf-man monstrosity. And finally, I found a niche in the genre for a bookdragon like me!

Cry Wolf by Patricia Briggs

Alpha & Omega #1

Anna is an unforgettable protagonist. She’s a breath of sweet sunshine, scrappy and kind. And shattered. We don’t just pity her or admire her, we become her. After surviving isolation and brutality, the relief and residual unease of escape is staggering! Despite the brutality of wolf life, will Anna accept the loyalty, the love, of a healthy “family“?

A developed world. Patricia Briggs was a top result when I embarked on my werewolf hunt. She’s set up an immense urban fantasy world spanning multiple series. As a reader, I appreciate that the history and lore is woven seamlessly into the plot. I sought an enticing series packed with action and intrigue, and I’ve struck gold!

I hate violence. But I also understand it’s necessary to an extent for a thrilling plot. Fighting enemies who are willing to kill, and defending loved ones, will result in injuries – or worse. In ‘Cry Wolf’, we focus less on bloody mess and more on the mental fallout of trauma. It’s actually brilliant. So, I hate nothing!

Intense romance. I define romance as a character actively trying to fit someone new into their life, whether or not they end up becoming partners. Werewolf lore often involves imprinting, where mates are bonded in an all encompassing devotion. This is only romantic, in my opinion, if both werewolves have agency and interest in figuring out the new relationship. When they do, it’s compelling!

Phased by Victoria Tecken

On Goodreads

Want a standalone with powerful young women battling werewolf stereotypes? You must read Phased! The characters are endearing, infuriating, flawed and brave in this YA fantasy. A seemingly average school incorporates human and were students with apparent success. But they’ve never met anyone like Lyla and Val.

Sisterly bonds. Val and Lyla are together, and that’s what they focus on. Not the years they were forced apart while interned at the facility. Although many students at their new boarding school fear the girls, they are not as alone as they expected to be. Alternating perspectives reveal a snarky, sweet and raw relationship.

Over-dependence on the alpha trope. Briefly, the alpha is a boss wolf. Betas naturally follow the alpha. Omegas are lone wolves, basically exempt from the wolf hierarchy. Pack status does play a clear role in the story, but I seriously doubt a school could remain standing with so many alphas in one building! Also, complex personalities should factor into whether an alpha werewolf garners respect from “the pack”.

Dystopia. A broken society with science fiction elements. A world in which werewolves, though commonplace, are subject to prejudice and discrimination. I. Love. This. The elaborate settings and medical technology drew me in. Toxic language such as “feral” and “assimilation” had me clambering for reform.

Wolves And Roses by Christina Bauer

Fairy Tales of the Magicorum Book 1

All Bryar Rose really wants is to study Ancient Egyptian papyri and hang out with her rebellious bestie, Cinderella aka Elle. But a recurring dream – the one with a wolf and a sexy guy – may mean she’s in danger! She’s going to need all of her teenage sass and martial arts skills to survive her eighteenth birthday.

A real, live girl. Yes, Bryar will need the help of her magical friends, including a gruff werewolf named Knox who melts her heart. But she’s no damsel. Her hopes, interests, ideas and beliefs are present throughout the story. There’s doubt, shock, mistaken confidence. She is so much the over-sheltered teen with a rebellious streak, I want to give her a hug and buy her some french fries!

Basic descriptors. Authors, if you’re only going to describe the main character as having “blue eyes and brown hair” then why bother? There are a zillion hair types and body types and attitudes to feed us an image of your character. I want to know what about this young woman demands my attention. And that had better not be the hue of her hair. That said, these characters had sass for days, so I’ll temporarily overlook the dull descriptors. End of rant.

It’s about the magic. Underneath the friendship, family dysfunction, fledgling romance and petty crime, the main theme is magic. Magicians hide their abilities like the gems in their unassuming sport coat pockets. Shifters mask the golden gleam of their eyes as they slip out of the city to take animal form. And fairies. Well, fairies are divas, clever, resourceful and fond of drama. A disastrous mix!

I shudder to recall the interest with which my callous teen self once indulged in the beauty-becomes-beast gore-fest called ‘Ginger Snaps’.

These are my three favorite werewolf novels! Not only do I need to know what’s next for the characters, but I’m invested in their worlds. Could Bryar and Elle be destined for high school high jinks? Will there be a sequel to Phased? What other forms of shifters will appear in Patricia Briggs’ other books?

I also enjoyed comparing transformations! Do you like your werewolves more canine or monstrous? Relatable or insatiable? I was surprised to find that I enjoyed both – the more natural wolf form in ‘Cry Wolf’ and the fiercer biped form in ‘Phased’. It turns out the struggle with an inner beast is exciting and compelling. I can’t help but love a werewolf story!

• Do you have a favorite werewolf?
• Can you suggest another great book or series about shapeshifters?
• Thanks for reading! 🖤

A Bookdragon Hoard ~ Urban Fantasy

Hello, there! I hope you have lots to read. I sure do, more than a Bookdragon could read in a year. Not that I should brag about my hoarding tendencies…but I do want to brag about three of my bookish treasures!

I am comparing three books from the young adult genre, specifically: Urban Fantasy. Urban Fantasy basically means there’s magic going on, but the story takes place in our familiar old world on planet earth.

The problem with reviewing books is that I love each and every one for unique reasons. It’s tough! Hey— what if I tell you exactly what I love and hate about my treasures? You can judge the value for yourself and perhaps find new treasures for your own hoard.

#1 Titus Fogg by Aaron Piper

(The Wyrd Book 1)

Titus Fogg is a normal high school student. At least that’s what he keeps saying to himself. But is it normal to be suspected of murder? Or to argue with your pervy shadow? Or to enjoy algebra? At the very least, he’d like to keep the m-word out of things, given how magic has ruined his life so far!

Tess Roe loves scary films, soccer, and the ancient library where her mother works crazy hours. When she meets the new kid, Titus, she’s aware he’s weird, insane and possibly homicidal. She senses something more in him, however, and soon she’s sucked into his world of Wyrd with no way out.

Characters with weaknesses. Trust issues. Callousness. Pig-headedness. Prejudice. Titus lacks social skills, but is a mathematical genius. Tess has anger issues, but oozes compassion. Can two substantially flawed kids turn their weirdness their advantage? Or will evil overtake them before they can figure out they need each other?

When the point of view changes between several characters! When executed well, the switch between POVs heightens suspense while illuminating relationship dynamics.

Terrible editing. I sincerely hope there’s a better edited version out there. Spelling errors like loose instead of lose and a misused word or two, like sympatic instead of sympathy, kept me from losing myself in the magic!

Mystery. I enjoy guessing, figuring out the characters and their motives. We’re given nothing more about Titus, Tess and their families than is necessary to follow the plot. As the reader, I felt respected. I trusted that every gory, unexpected event was leading to a big reveal!

#2 We Own The Sky by Sara Crawford

(The Muse Chronicles Book 1)

Sylvia Baker is musical. Music should be the antithesis of depression, but not in her case. Her summer was punctuated with a visit to an in-patient care facility. Her very young single father is a recovering addict. Sylvia struggles with his local fame and her own loneliness.

Her life is about to change when Sylvia meets a dark stranger. Suddenly inspired, she realizes how important he is to her journey as a musician—maybe even to her as a person. Is music the cure? Can she balance her obsession with the flighty Vincent, her new friends, her band, and her dad’s sobriety?

An emotional artist’s view of her craft. Music is my favorite subject for an art-fueled novel! It’s magical, mythical, how music connects thought and feeling; draws folks of all different experiences together. In ‘We Own The Sky”, Art with a capital A is described as an almost supernatural motivation. And yet, the most basic of human emotions are deeply imbedded in musical expression.

Grab your headphones and breathe in Sylvia’s playlist as she meets her Muse, exploring new avenues of herself and bringing us along for the ride. Flying, falling, grieving, transforming— it’s all experienced through the concept of music. 🎶

Interesting side characters. The more great characters the better, I say. The sensational personalities in Sylvia’s life include Travis, a self-assured and gifted lead singer, Vincent, a dejected and intense loner, and Mariella, a spunky Muse with poor punctuality!

Brushing mental health issues under the rug. It’s absolutely amazing when a character fights their demons, accepts help, and pulls out the other side having learned to trust. That being said, it’s dangerous when an author portrays mental health in a misleading way. To be very honest, I found this attitude triggering.

Sylvia lies about taking her meds. She lies about returning her therapist’s calls. And she lies about her suicide attempt. I kept waiting, waiting, waiting for her to realize that it was okay to get help. Worse, the fantasy element is used to explain book’s dismissive attitude toward treatment.

When the main character realizes she fits in after all! You know I am all for angsty, no-one-gets-me, lonely-punk-teenager tropes. But even better than that? Our lonely-punk-teen finds a friend group! She opens up to new experiences and personalities! She finds she belongs! Real life, right there. We all belong somewhere.

#3 The Hidden Oracle by Rick Riordan

(The Trials of Apollo series Book 1)

Apollo. The Greek god of the sun, music, and being mega hot! *poses for photo op*! Being immortal makes a person have a big head, it’s not Apollo’s fault he’s amazing! *flashes a blinding grin* But according to daddy Zeus, that recent situation with the half-bloods was his fault. Big time. And his punishment is way unfair: mortality.

Apollo finds himself un-amazing, in the mortal world, hoping a little girl will save him! What he really needs is a few half-bloods to accept the great honor of questing for him! Unfortunately, he’s got a lot to learn about mortal life. Turns out he doesn’t know much about demigods, either.

Mythology in modern day. As the fans of the Riordanverse well know, being a demigod is dangerous business! Humans remain cheerfully oblivious, while monsters and other ruthless mythical beings tend to make life suck for people like Percy Jackson. Did I mention that Olympus is atop the Empire Stare Building in NYC? No one adapts Greek lore into trage-larious adventure like Rick Riordan.

Un-relatable main characters. I’m drawn to books with great character development. That means a character has to be fully formed, flawed, and functional before the events of the story take place. I’m not sure Apollo counts by this description. Can he even improve himself as a (former) god among men?

Tying in characters from previous storylines. Hey, Percy! Missed you, man. I enjoyed catching a glimpse of several other favourites from the series Heroes of Olympus. Will Solace, son if Apollo, is one of them. He’s a skilled healer at Camp Half-Blood. Friendly and easy-going, Will is the ideal tour guide for his disillusioned dad.

All three of these books boast realistic city backdrops with uncanny twists on magic and mythology—top-tier Urban Fantasy. In reviewing these beauties, I have very intentionally avoided contrasting them with popular works of the same genre. Reviewers love to say “for fans of Harry Potter” or “for fans of Twilight” or “for fans of Percy Jackson”. But I say, let’s give new stories a chance to be special on their own merit! Thanks for reading. 🖤

• Have you enjoyed any of these books/authors? 💎
• Would you like more Love/Hate/Like reviews from me? ❤️
• Would you identify yourself as a Bookdragon? 🐉