Knives Out Meets The Secret Garden: Hazelthorn by C.G. Drews

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I’m officially obsessed with C.G. Drews’s brand of environmental/forest horror. There’s just something intoxicating about the way she blends lush, lyrical writing with creeping dread and botanical menace. Hazelthorn feels like it’s set in the same eerie world as Don’t Let the Forest In (or maybe dreamed up by Andrew and Thomas), but it never feels like a repeat. Instead, it’s as though Drews knows exactly what we loved from her last book and has turned the dial up even higher.

Blurb

Evander has lived like a ghost in the forgotten corners of the Hazelthorn estate ever since he was taken in by his reclusive billionaire guardian, Byron Lennox-Hall, when he was a child. For his safety, Evander has been given three ironclad rules to follow:

He can never leave the estate. He can never go into the gardens. And most importantly, he can never again be left alone with Byron’s charming, underachieving grandson, Laurie.

That last rule has been in place ever since Laurie tried to kill Evander seven years ago, and yet somehow Evander is still obsessed with him.

When Byron suddenly dies, Evander inherits Hazelthorn’s immense gothic mansion and acres of sprawling grounds, along with the entirety of the Lennox-Hall family’s vast wealth. But Evander’s sure his guardian was murdered, and Laurie may be the only one who can help him find the killer before they come for Evander next.

Perhaps even more concerning is how the overgrown garden is refusing to stay behind its walls, slipping its vines and spores deeper into the house with each passing day. As the family’s dark secrets unravel alongside the growing horror of their terribly alive, bloodthirsty garden, Evander needs to find out what he’s really inheriting before the garden demands to be fed once more.

My Thoughts

The book opens with a classic hook: Byron Lennox-Hall is dead, and his ward Evander suspects foul play. It’s the perfect setup for a gothic murder mystery… except that’s just the bait. The real danger comes from the sprawling Hazelthorn estate itself: more specifically, the overgrown, bloodthirsty garden that refuses to stay outside. Before long, murder takes a backseat to something stranger and far more unsettling. Imagine Knives Out meets The Secret Garden meets botanical body horror, with spores and vines slipping under doors and into your lungs.

At the center are two boys who are as frustrating as they are compelling. Evander tested my patience early on: passive, withdrawn, and almost too resigned to his gilded cage. But as the story unfolded, I grew to understand his hesitations. And Laurie? My poor cinnamon roll. He’s going through it, but he’s magnetic and impossible not to love. I wish I knew more about who he was like in the outside world, but it almost feels as if nothing exists outside of the Hazelthorn estate. Drews captures that push-pull between craving control and drowning in self-hatred with a raw, unsettling honesty.

None of the characters’ choices made sense at first, but that’s part of the magic. Slowly, their motivations snap into place, and by the time I realized I’d been hooked, it was too late to put the book down. Surprisingly, there’s also a thread of delicious, seething feminine rage woven into this story about gay boys… and maybe that’s just my read on it, but it gives the book an added bite I didn’t expect.

Hazelthorn is, at its roots, a YA horromance (yes, horror + romance) about inheritance, secrets, and the monstrous beauty of nature unleashed. And C.G. Drews proves once again that nobody does creeping, vine-twisting, soul-crushing atmosphere quite like she does.

Verdict: If you like your gothic horror strange, gorgeous, and tinged with romance, you’re going to want to wander into this garden… just watch your step.

Out Oct 28, 2025

I love you, bro — The Broposal by Sonora Reyes

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I’ve been in a bit of a writing slump lately thanks to (imagine me gesturing wildly around) life. I actually read this book over a month ago, but I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. And with the current U.S. leadership making it abundantly clear that foreigners are not welcome on their soil, this story feels more timely—and more necessary—than ever. I missed the book’s publishing date (Jan. 21), and I’m a little ashamed of that, because I really want this one to find its readers and get the success it deserves. So today, let me tell you about… a romance. Well, a bromance.

Blurb

It’s about time roommates Alejandro and Kenny get married. Or at least, that’s what all their close friends and family think when they announce their engagement. The kicker? The two are faking their whole relationship so Alejandro can get a green card. But if Han was going to marry anyone, it would be his ride or die since second grade.

Han has never been able to put down roots, and the only one who truly breaks through his walls is Kenny. Sweet, sensitive Kenny is newly single, and what better distraction from his soul-sucking relationship than proposing marriage to Han? Kenny can’t think of anything more fun than spending his life with his best friend, even if it’s just for a piece of paper. But as Kenny keeps up the charade, he’s soon struggling to resist their sizzling chemistry.

The line between fact and fiction begins to blur the closer they get to their wedding date. With all eyes on Han and Kenny—including a meddling ex and immigration officers—will these two bros make it down the altar for real?

My Thoughts

I loved this book.

On the surface, The Broposal is a fake-dating, best-friends-to-lovers romcom—sweet, funny, and full of swoony moments. But underneath the swoons and slow-burn chemistry, this book also explores the very real fear and hardship of being undocumented in the U.S.—making it one of the most emotionally resonant romances I’ve read in a long time.

As an immigrant myself—an American who’s never lived in the U.S.—I’m painfully familiar with the bureaucratic nightmares that come with trying to stay legal. I’ve had applications lost, had to rely on family for fees, and even turned down job opportunities because they might jeopardize my status. I’ve been in rooms where people complain about “foreigners getting free handouts” without realizing I’m one of those very people (though, where those handouts are hiding, I’d love to know). And still, I recognize the immense privilege I have—legality, support, and even the invisibility granted by my skin color.

The Broposal put that into perspective. Han is a young undocumented immigrant who’s built a life in the U.S. but lives every day under the weight of fear and restriction. The story doesn’t shy away from the consequences of that reality: the exploitation, the lack of medical access, the quiet terror of being found out. The paradox of wanting, needing to be legal, and not having the resources to do so because you’re not. It’s powerful. It’s real. And it’s a stark reminder that the right to live a life of dignity should not be up for debate.

And yet, against this backdrop, we have the most wholesome, perfect romance between Han and Kenny.

Best friends since second grade, their bond is so warm and full of mutual care that it’s no wonder everyone around them assumes they’re already in love. We all see it! Right away! Their friendship is beautiful on its own, and while I’d love to see more representations of strong, platonic male friendships in fiction, I couldn’t help but cheer when they started to realize what everyone else already knew: they’re soulmates.

The chemistry? Off the charts. The emotional depth? Devastating in the best way. It also features one of the most heartbreaking explicit sex scenes you will ever read, so prepare yourself emotionally.

Another highlight: the book thoughtfully includes the experience of emotional abuse from a female partner—something rarely depicted in romance, especially from a male perspective. Kenny’s past relationship is handled with nuance and care, and it adds even more complexity to his emotional journey.

I listened to the audiobook and highly recommend it. Having two narrators—one for Han and one for Kenny—was such a gift. It’s still way too rare in audiobooks where both POVs are the same gender, and it made these characters feel even more alive.

In short: The Broposal is more than just a romance. It’s a story about identity, safety, love, and the messy beauty of realizing you’ve had everything you needed all along. It’s timely. It’s tender. It’s so worth reading.

If you’re in the U.S. right now and going through this—if you’re undocumented, on a visa, waiting for your paperwork, or living in fear of what might come next—please know: the outside world is watching. Many of us see what’s happening, and we care deeply. You deserve safety, dignity, and the freedom to live without fear. You shouldn’t have to prove your worthiness to exist.

If you’re looking for support, here are some resources that may help:

United We Dream (https://unitedwedream.org) – the largest immigrant youth-led community in the U.S., offering resources, advocacy, and community support.

Immigration Equality (https://immigrationequality.org) – especially for LGBTQ+ immigrants, they offer legal assistance and know-how.

RAICES (https://www.raicestexas.org) – provides legal and social services to immigrants and refugees, particularly in Texas but with national reach.

National Immigration Law Center (https://nilc.org) – a long-standing advocacy group working to defend and advance the rights of low-income immigrants.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. Please reach out to trusted people, advocacy groups, or mental health professionals when you can. And if reading stories like The Broposal helps you feel seen or even just momentarily lighter—you’re not wrong to reach for that, too.

We see you. We care. And we’re not giving up on a more just world.

Thank God and Tom Hanks — Celebrity Crush by Christy Swift

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I promised I’d be back, and for once, I’m on time! I’m so thrilled this week to bring you another exceptional romance novel — one that manages to sneak sci-fi quotes and references into a contemporary story (you know I’m a sucker for that!).

Summary

A romance writer’s wildest dreams—the bestseller list, a movie deal, and a date with the real-life inspiration for her Hollywood hero—are all within her grasp if only she can hold it all together.    

Author Emmy Ellison is a sucker for a page-turning happy ending, but she’s no longer counting on one for herself. If she stays focused on her career goals instead of her love life, she just might find success. And now that her latest novel is about to become a movie, she’s determined to become the latest social media sensation.

When her secret celebrity crush (the real-life inspiration for her romantic hero) accepts the starring role in the big-screen adaptation of her book, she’s determined to team up with a fake dating scheme—now that he’s in need of some good PR of his own. Ideally, she can ride the wave of popularity all the way to the top of the bestseller lists. But when the harsh spotlight of fame exposes the truth, will they try to turn their on-camera chemistry into a real-life relationship?

What happens when your biggest celebrity crush stars in the movie adaptation of your book—and you start catching real feelings?

My Thoughts

Emmy Ellison is living the ultimate author fantasy. Her novel, Hashtag, CelebrityCrush, goes viral after the internet speculates which real-life celebrity inspired her leading man. Cue an even bigger dream come true—her book gets a movie deal, and none other than Jason Harlow, the actual muse behind her fictional Hollywood hero, signs on for the role. Suddenly Emmy’s at fancy Hollywood parties as her book skyrockets to the top of the bestseller list. What could possibly go wrong?

Well… emotions, for starters! When the lines between fiction and reality blur, and Emmy and Jason start falling for each other for real, the pressures of Hollywood, social media, and their own pasts make it nearly impossible to tell what’s genuine and what’s scripted.

The moment this book dropped a Star Trek reference in the first line, I knew I was in for a treat. If you’ve ever been obsessed with a sci-fi series and the leading actors who bring those characters to life (cough David Tennant’s hair cough), then this book is for you. And even if sci-fi isn’t your thing, don’t worry—the references are balanced enough that non-nerds will still absolutely love it. Also, can we talk about Lost Star Dance Troupe Saves the Universe? I need this to be a real show immediately. Imagine Firefly but with a ridiculously attractive cast and dance numbers? Get a producer on the line STAT!

But what makes Celebrity Crush truly shine is how authentic the characters feel. Emmy is more than just a dreamy, starstruck romance writer—she’s a single mom working tirelessly to build the life she and her daughter deserve. Jason, meanwhile, is a single dad trying to make the right choices for his son while navigating the exhausting world of fame. Their chemistry is undeniable, but what really makes their love story hit home is how real it feels. They’re both navigating the pressure of public life, surrounded by people who constantly push them to use each other for their own gain. In a world of PR-driven relationships and social media scrutiny, trusting your heart isn’t easy. Their slow-burn connection—full of longing, hesitation, and genuine tenderness—makes you root for them at every turn. Just two people searching for something authentic in a world built on illusion.

Something I thought was pretty brilliant was the mise en abyme —or to avoid using a French term I can’t properly translate, Celebrity-Crush-Ception. The book is about Emmy’s celebrity crush, who plays the character based on himself in the movie adaptation of her book, #CelebrityCrush. So clever!

Just when you think you know where the story is going, Swift throws in a curveball that completely upends your expectations. The pacing is spot-on, with just the right balance of romantic tension, humor, and jaw-dropping surprises. Every time I thought I had the story figured out, something unexpected happened—and I loved it. The HEA is so satisfying, and I was grinning from ear to ear by the final chapters. While the leaked photo scandal wrapped up a little too quickly for my liking, that’s just a minor nitpick.

Also: I listened to the audiobook, and the dual narration really elevated the story. Having separate narrators for Emmy and Jason brought both perspectives to life, and the snippets of celebrity news, gossip blogs, and interviews were hilariously well done. The over-the-top Hollywood personalities were chef’s kiss perfect.

Celebrity Crush is the kind of book that gives you all the warm, fuzzy, heart-fluttering feelings. It’s fun, clever, and packed with swoon-worthy moments—plus, the fake dating trope is executed so well. The side characters are also fantastic (I need a Val in my life—when will my royalties start rolling in so I can afford a professional stylist?). If you’re looking for a romance that’s equal parts smart, sexy, and full of heart, this is it. And if it’s a little wish-fulfill-y? So what! That’s exactly what I needed. Highly recommended for fans of Hollywood romances and sci-fi-loving heroines who finally get their happily-ever-after.

Pub Date Feb 11 2025

Cursed in Love by Emily Colin — and Sweet Purple Ponies, has it been that long?

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Heya, dear readers. Did you miss me?

I hopped on the blog to write up this review and… when I saw the date of my last post… well, I cringed. Or did a bit more than cringe. Because when it’s been a whole YEAR since I promised a new post, well, I don’t particularly know what to think. Suffice to say that 2024 was a YEAR. 2025 is promising to be one too, but hey, there are some great books coming out, and I’ll try to tell you all about them. Starting this week with Emily Colin’s latest novel, Cursed in Love!

Blurb

Stars Hollow meets Charmed in this darkly funny, small-town paranormal romcom… Love doesn’t get much more forbidden than this.

In the quirky, tight-knit town of Sapphire Springs, beloved for its chocolate-caramel milkshakes and spicy senior citizens’ book club, Rune Whitlock has always felt like an outsider. Gifted with the ability to see the future but cursed to have no one believe her premonitions, she’s accepted that romance isn’t in the cards. She’s got a cozy cottage, a fulfilling graphic design career, a loyal best friend, and Valentine—the sweet rescue kitty who is definitely not her familiar. So what if she’s sometimes lonely?

But everything changes when she meets Donovan Frost. A brilliant, brooding data engineer, Donovan is everything Rune is not: methodical, reserved, logical. He’s also grumpy, judgmental, and 5-chili-peppers hot. Thrown together on a mysterious work project, the two clash spectacularly—until an unexpected connection ignites between them.

Then, Rune’s gift reveals a chilling truth: they are destined for each other, but their love story is doomed to end in tragedy on their wedding day. To protect Donovan, Rune must push him away, even if it breaks her heart. But the harder she tries, the more entangled they become. As dark forces conspire against them and secrets come to light, Rune must unravel the mystery of her curse…before it’s too late.

✨A woman who’s cursed to see the future but never have anyone believe her premonitions falls in love with a man who’s destined to die on their wedding day. ✨

Sweet Purple Ponies! When I picked up Cursed in Love, I was expecting a cozy romcom with a dash of magic, but Emily Colin delivered so much more. While the book is packed with charm, humor, and swoon-worthy romance, it also has serious stakes and emotional depth that completely took me by surprise. Rune’s backstory is tough—there’s real pain and loss behind her quirky exterior—and the content warnings are definitely there for a reason. These moments, however, never detract from the magic of the story. Instead, they make Rune’s journey feel that much more powerful and real. So expect more of a paranormal romance set in a rom-com world.

Rune Whitlock is the kind of protagonist you can’t help but root for: quirky, fiercely independent, and delightfully awkward in all the right ways. But in Sapphire Springs—a town where the gossip blogs are practically Big Brother-level invasive—Rune can’t so much as slip without the whole town knowing. (Honestly, I could never live there. Rune deserves a medal for surviving it!) Her curse, the ability to see the future but never be believed, is fascinating and perfectly integrated into the plot. It shapes her relationships, her choices, and the quiet loneliness that defines so much of her life.

And then there’s Donovan Frost. Let me just say this: if you’ve ever wanted Henry Cavill as a grumpy data engineer with a spreadsheet obsession (turns out, that’s kinda my type), you’re in for a treat. Rune and Donovan’s chemistry practically jumps off the page—it’s that good. Their dynamic is a delightful mix of opposites attracting, with Rune’s messy, magical unpredictability clashing with Donovan’s buttoned-up, logical approach to life. Yet beneath the surface, they share a connection that feels both inevitable and electric. No wonder the town is shipping them so hard! And speaking of the town, I adore the Sinsters (the senior women’s romantasy book club). They might be a little obsessed with social media gossip, but Hot Yoga Grandma makes up for it.

What really sets Cursed in Love apart, though, is how it constantly keeps you guessing. Just when I thought I had the story figured out, Colin threw in a twist that had me gasping out loud. The way all the threads come together at the end? Absolutely brilliant.

As someone who’s loved Emily Colin’s romantasy (The Sword of the Seven Sins trilogy, Fate and Fury), I was curious to see how her signature style would translate to a contemporary setting. Let me tell you—she nailed it. This book has all her trademarks: magical curses, badass female leads, heart-pounding twists, and those beautiful moments of self-discovery. It’s like she took the essence of romantasy and seamlessly wove it into a small-town paranormal romcom. She may just be the queen of forbidden love.

Cursed in Love truly has it all: romance, magic, high stakes, low stakes, and a heartfelt story about a woman learning to come into her own power—all while falling for her grumpy, reluctant coworker. If you’re a fan of Charmed, quirky small towns, or love stories that make you laugh, cry, and believe in magic, then you’re going to love this book.

Pub Date Feb 14 2025 from Black Orchid Books

An Island Strange and Wild: The Secret Garden of your deepest dreams

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Hello, dear readers! I’m so excited about today’s review, as this is a book I’ve had the privilege of watching come together over the past few years. Lisa Amowitz has crafted a Secret Garden retelling that speaks to the deepest part of me, weaving science and magic into a beautiful work of art, like slipping into a Monet painting and watching every plant come to life.

Blurb

Devastated by the freak death of her fellow climate activist and best friend/secret crush Tyler, eighteen-year-old science geek Rosalie Gatell decides to ditch her prestigious summer study abroad and escape to the place of his birth, which happens to be an endangered and uncharted island off the coast of Maine.

Once there, Rosalie discovers a shocking truth about her past…and that what troubles this island goes far beyond the laws of nature. Even with a vanishing walled garden, a miraculous healing plant with a mind of its own, an unknown aunt trapped in a tree, nothing confounds Rosalie as much as the enigmatic Liam, a reckless and beautiful island boy with a supernatural green thumb. Rosalie believes she may have found salvation in this island wonderland—and a path to completing Tyler’s climate work.

But as her attraction to Liam grows, she’s confronted by myths and legends about her family’s origins that forces her to reconcile science and magic in order to save the island, and everyone on it, from an ancient evil. To do so, Rosalie will have to rely on her own power, instead of logic or science, if she is to free Liam from his curse while keeping the evil from consuming her and everyone else she’s ever loved.

My Thoughts

I adored this highly atmospheric read! A mesmerizing tale that captures the heart with its atmospheric storytelling and enchanting worldbuilding. Amowitz takes us on a journey with Rosalie, a young woman reeling from personal tragedy, as she discovers the wonders and secrets of an endangered island off the coast of Maine.

The novel is a beautiful homage to “The Secret Garden,” reimagined with a modern twist and an infusion of fantasy elements that breathe life into the story. With it being one of my favorite books as a child (along with the BBC adaptation, which had me searching for secret gates in hedges for years), I was excited for this retelling, and it did not let me down. The author’s worldbuilding is exquisite, both in its complexity and in the beauty of what she’s created: the plants burst off the page, blooming to life and taking root in your mind.

At the heart of this narrative is Rosalie, a young woman grappling with personal loss. Her character is a masterful blend of intelligence, resilience, and vulnerability. As she uncovers the mysteries of her past and the island’s secrets, we see her grow and find her own power. Rosalie’s journey is a compelling exploration of grief, identity, and strength.

The book weaves together elements of romance, magic, and the supernatural, yet it never loses its grip on the real emotional stakes at play. The ethical dilemmas and the struggle between science and magic add layers of depth to the story, making it thought-provoking as well as captivating.

An Island Strange and Wild is a testament to the power of storytelling. It’s a book that doesn’t just tell a story; it takes you on a journey. The blend of enchanting narrative, rich worldbuilding, and complex characters make it a must-read. It’s a book that reminds us why we fall in love with stories in the first place and the transformative power they hold.

Lisa Amowitz has crafted a tale that resonates long after the last page is turned, making An Island Strange and Wild an unforgettable addition to any book lover’s collection.

Expected publication February 20, 2024

Detective Work in Jupiter’s Orbit: The Imposition of Unnecessary Obstacles

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Have you ever longed for a journey that combines the intellectual rigor of a scholarly puzzle with the thrill of space opera? Look no further! The Imposition of Unnecessary Obstacles by Malka Older landed on my reading list like an unexpected comet, whisking me away on an interstellar adventure filled with intrigue and wonder. Join me as I reunite with Investigator Mossa and Scholar Pleiti, navigating the vast expanses of Jupiter’s settlements and the intricate corridors of human complexity.

Blurb

Investigator Mossa and Scholar Pleiti reunite to solve a new mystery in the follow-up to the cozy space-opera detective mystery The Mimicking of Known Successes, which Hugo Award-winning author Charlie Jane Anders called “an utter triumph.”

Mossa has returned to Valdegeld on a missing person’s case, for which she’ll once again need Pleiti’s insight. Seventeen students and staff members have disappeared from Valdegeld University—yet no one has noticed. The answers to this case may lie on the moon of Io—Mossa’s home—and the history of Jupiter’s original settlements during humanity’s exodus from Earth.

But Pleiti’s faith in her life’s work as a scholar of the past has grown precarious, and this new case threatens to further destabilize her dreams for humanity’s future, as well as her own.

My thoughts

Returning to the world of Mossa and Pleiti was like a reunion with old university friends—familiar yet full of surprises. Malka Older’s vision of life on Jupiter is an absolute treat, crafting worlds both vast and intricately detailed. The day-to-day peculiarities of Jupiter’s settlements—the railcars, the interplay of the moons, and the reconstructed diurnal rhythms—illustrate Older’s extraordinary skill in world-building.

This sequel poses an intriguing question: Why do we complicate our lives in the pursuit of simplicity? It’s a contemplative thread that weaves through the narrative, prodding us to examine our own convoluted paths to ‘better’ living. The Holmesian overlay in this installment is more pronounced, teetering on the edge of pastiche at times. While it’s a charming nod to the detective genre, it occasionally distracted from the novel’s own original voice—something I savored in the first book.

Nevertheless, the journey was worth the ride. Older’s blend of brain puzzles and cosmic exploration is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. And though the detective homage is strong, the heart of the story—questioning our self-imposed complexities—resonates profoundly.

For those who fancy a cerebral jaunt across space with a dash of detective flair, The Imposition of Unnecessary Obstacles is a worthy expedition. Just be prepared for the occasional echo of deerstalker caps amidst the stars. I wonder how I didn’t notice how Sherlockian their dialogue was before: did I miss it in the first book, or is it just more extreme here?

As I closed the book, I was left with a sense of fulfillment and curiosity. Malka Older has once again proven her ability to entangle the cosmic and the personal, making us ponder the universe’s mysteries and our place within it. So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey that’s as introspective as it is interstellar, grab your space gear and dive into “The Imposition of Unnecessary Obstacles”. Let’s unravel the universe’s puzzles together!

Expected Publication Date 13 Feb 2024 from Tor Publishing Group, TorDotCom

Ai Weiwei’s Zodiac: A Graphic Memoir of Myth, Memory, and Meaning

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I didn’t know what to expect from this graphic novel. I’m a huge fan of the artist and was extremely lucky to see his expo made for Marseille, so I was really excited. I was expecting it to read like a memoir, but it feels more like stepping into a contemplative journey through time, art, and personal struggle. This graphic novel, far from being a conventional memoir, is an intricate tapestry that weaves together Ai Weiwei’s reflections on life, art, and freedom through the mythical lens of the Chinese zodiac.

Blurb

In this beautifully illustrated and deeply philosophical graphic memoir, legendary artist Ai Weiwei explores the connection between artistic expression and intellectual freedom through the lens of the Chinese zodiac.

As a child living in exile during the Cultural Revolution, Ai Weiwei often found himself with nothing to read but government-approved comic books. Although they were restricted by the confines of political propaganda, Ai Weiwei was struck by the artists’ ability to express their thoughts on art and humanity through graphic storytelling. Now, decades later, Ai Weiwei and Italian comic artist Gianluca Costantini present Zodiac , Ai Weiwei’s first graphic memoir.

Inspired by the twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac and their associated human characteristics, Ai Weiwei masterfully interweaves ancient Chinese folklore with stories of his life, family, and career. The narrative shifts back and forth through the years—at once in the past, present, and future—mirroring memory and our relationship to time. As readers delve deeper into the beautifully illustrated pages of Zodiac , they will find not only a personal history of Ai Weiwei and an examination of the sociopolitical climate in which he makes his art, but a philosophical exploration of what it means to find oneself through art and freedom of expression.

Contemplative and political, Zodiac will inspire readers to return again and again to Ai Weiwei’s musings on the relationship between art, time, and our shared humanity.

My Thoughts

From the outset, Zodiac captivates with its unique narrative structure. The story unfolds not linearly but as a series of vignettes, blending Ai Weiwei’s past experiences with Chinese zodiac mythology, cultural tales, and intimate conversations with family and friends. These elements come together to paint a broader picture of the Cultural Revolution’s impact and the relentless spirit of those who dare to challenge it.

Each page of this memoir is a testament to the enduring power of art and expression. While the narrative takes readers through various periods of Ai Weiwei’s life, it also delves into the philosophical, exploring the artist’s and his contemporaries’ motivations, struggles, and triumphs. The art, while simple in its black-and-white presentation, is intentionally styled to focus the reader’s attention on the narrative’s depth and complexity. While I personally hoped for more intricate visuals, the starkness of the illustrations serves to amplify the memoir’s thematic weight, compelling readers to engage more profoundly with the text and its underlying ideas.

Zodiac is not just a book but an experience, one that demands revisiting. Its layered narrative and philosophical underpinnings offer new insights with each reading. Although it can be consumed quickly (I read it in an hour), the true value lies in its lingering effect, inviting readers to ponder and reflect long after the last page is turned.

In sum, this book is a compelling blend of art, history, and philosophy, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential contemporary artists. It’s a work that challenges, enlightens, and inspires, much like Ai Weiwei himself.

Recommended for those who appreciate graphic novels with a deep, introspective edge and anyone interested in the intersections between art, society, and personal narrative.

Expected publication January 30, 2024 by Ten Speed Graphic

The Truth of the Aleke: A Journey Back to the Forever Desert

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Welcome back, fellow readers, and happy new year! I know I haven’t been posting reviews regularly, and I have a good excuse – it turns out my burn out? Yeah, it wasn’t a burn out, there was something way more serious going on in my insides! Now that that’s settled, I’m feeling my energy return by leaps and bounds, and I’m so ready to tell you about all the great books coming out in this 2024. Let’s dive right in!

It’s no secret that the Forever Desert series by Moses Ose Utomi has held a special place in my bookshelf, and my latest adventure with The Truth of the Aleke has only deepened my appreciation for this vividly painted world. Join me as I dive back into the series, where reality intertwines with fantasy in the most unexpected ways.

Blurb

Moses Ose Utomi returns to his Forever Desert series with The Truth of the Aleke , continuing his epic fable about truth, falsehood, and the shackles of history.

The Aleke is cruel. The Aleke is clever. The Aleke is coming.

500 years after the events of The Lies of the Ajungo , the City of Truth stands as is the last remaining free city of the Forever Desert. A bastion of freedom and peace, the city has successfully weathered the near-constant attacks from the Cult of Tutu, who have besieged it for three centuries, attempting to destroy its warriors and subjugate its people.

17-year-old Osi is a Junior Peacekeeper in the City. When the mysterious leader of the Cult, known only as the Aleke, commits a massacre in the capitol and steals the sacred God’s Eyes, Osi steps forward to valiantly defend his home. For his bravery he is tasked with a tremendous responsibility―destroy the Cult of Tutu, bring back the God’s Eyes, and discover the truth of the Aleke.

My thoughts

Our protagonist, Osi, feels incredibly real with his flaws and naivete. He’s a character that truly embodies the struggle between youthful idealism and the harsh realities of the world. As he stumbles through mistakes and confronts shocking truths, I felt every bit of his frustration and determination. His journey is not just a physical one across a besieged city but a deeply internal struggle with the world’s truths and lies.

Reading this book was like watching an intense anime unfold in my mind (I’ll blame the flu medicine). The action sequences, the powered-up defenders, the constant threat—all of it felt larger than life yet intimately relatable thanks to Osi’s heartfelt perspective. The dynamic of the eternal siege and Osi’s place within it was fascinating, portraying a young man out of depth yet fiercely committed. He is, all in all, a good kid, just trying to do the right thing.

However, the deeper I got into the story, the more I found myself questioning the underlying currents. The connection to the first book and the ensuing saga left me pondering the reasons behind the perpetuated lies and the never-ending conflict. It’s clear the novel is a meditation on truth, power, and history, yet it’s the ambiguity and complexity of these themes that had me hooked.

Osi’s tragic heroism is a compelling narrative. His unwavering belief in justice and truth, pitted against a world rife with deception, makes for an intriguing character study. His evolution throughout the story is a delicate balance between change and steadfastness, a portrayal of how deeply personal beliefs can both shape and be shaped by one’s journey.

While this novella leaves some questions tantalizingly unanswered, perhaps inviting readers to ponder and speculate, it’s this very aspect that underscores the series’ depth and allure. As the book concluded, I was left with a sense of anticipation and contemplation, eager for the next chapter in this imaginative and provoking series. If you’re looking for a story that combines the thrill of fantasy with a thoughtful exploration of deeper themes, this is a journey worth taking.

Expected publication March 5, 2024

Boo…k! It’s a surprise Starstruck novel!

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BOO! Did I get ya? Don’t worry; it’s just me, here with some spine-tingling news!

A whole new starstruck novel… out TODAY!

As the nights grow longer and a crisp chill winds through the air, I’ve been brewing up something special in the witching hours of my writer’s cauldron. Something to add a dash of spectral spice to your Halloween season: Into the Sallyverse! Starstruck… 7.5!

Now, I know, I know. You’ve been on the edge of your seats, waiting for Book 10, but in between drafting intense chapters, I felt a pull—a whimsical Halloweeny pull. And voila! This haunting tale was born. And let me clarify: this isn’t some fleeting ghost of a novella. Oh no, this is a full-bodied apparition of a book, matching stride with all its Starstruck siblings in terms of length and adventure!

Into the Sallyverse

When Zander winds up trapped in an alternate reality where his doppelgänger left a little more than just memories behind, Sally is on a ghostly mission to break him out. But why is she suddenly incorporeal? And how exactly do you babysit your boisterous alternate family?

Back home, a reality TV ghost-hunting squad has caught wind of some spectral activities, and Blayde must employ more than just wit and spunk to hide the interdimensional portal they inadvertently opened. Between ghostly pranks and portal cover-ups, it’s all in a day’s work.

In the Sallyverse, it’s a heart-pounding race against realities. Time is ticking down, and as they delve deeper into the layers of the multiverse, they’re faced with the chilling realization that reminder that alternate choices can lead to very real consequences.

Take me to your reader!

Happy SpooBooktober!

Into the Sallyverse is your ultimate Halloween reading treat. Chock-full of suspense, laughter, and those uncanny moments that make your spine tingle, it’s the ideal companion for those cozy October nights, wrapped up in a blanket with a cup of pumpkin-spiced whatever-your-heart-desires.

While the epic journey of Book 10 is still on the horizon (and oh, what a horizon it is!), think of this as your delightful, haunted hors d’oeuvre—a bit of ghostly fun to tide you over till the main event.

So, light those autumn candles, cozy into your favorite reading spot, and dive headfirst into a world where things go bump in the multiverse night.

💜 Introducing “Being Ace” 💜

The long-anticipated day is here! “Being Ace: An Anthology of Queer, Trans, Femme, and Disabled Stories of Asexual Love and Connection” has made its grand entrance, and what a splash it’s making!

This anthology isn’t just a book—it’s a movement. A collaboration of fourteen brilliant authors from five countries, each thread of narrative intertwines to create a rich tapestry celebrating the diverse voices within the asexual community.

My personal contribution to this anthology features Arty, an asexual Slayer channeling all the Buffy vibes. Battling both real-world monsters and societal expectations, Arty’s story is one of many, each highlighting a different facet of the ace spectrum.

Discover the infinite realms of asexual love across sci-fi, fantasy, and contemporary stories

From a wheelchair user racing to save her kidnapped girlfriend and a little mermaid who loves her sisters more than suitors, to a slayer whose virgin blood keeps attracting monsters, the stories of this anthology are anything but conventional. Whether adventuring through space, outsmarting a vengeful water spirit, or surviving haunted cemeteries, no two aces are the same in these 14 unique works that highlight asexual romance, aromantic love, and identities across the asexual spectrum.

Being Ace got a Kirkus Review!

And don’t just take my word for it! The Kirkus Review praised the anthology for its rich tapestry of themes, from grief and resilience to self-esteem and queer joy, making it a haven for readers seeking intersectional ace representation.

A multigenre anthology of short stories for teens that centers asexual protagonists.

A teen Slayer who is repulsed by sex is the target of monsters attracted to her virginal blood—until she deconstructs her community’s buy-in of the heterosexist concept of virginity in “Smells Like Teen Virgin” by S.E. Anderson. In S.J. Taylor’s “The Witch of Festa Falls,” a girl living in 18th-century Norway is able to save her community from a fossegrim, a terrifying creature from folklore, because she’s immune to his charms. “The Third Star” by RoAnna Sylver follows an aro-ace, agender, autistic teen who is worried about their queerplatonic relationship when their two partners go through rough patches, all while surviving on an emergency craft in the depths of space. The Little Mermaid is rescued from the clutches of exploitation and finds an unexpectedly platonic alliance with a merman prince in Moniza Hossain’s “The Mermaid’s Sister.” Themes of grief, community expectations, resilience, self-esteem, and queer joy are woven throughout this anthology. The stories range widely in tone and genre, although the majority are speculative. While some are immensely satisfying, others feel noticeably underdeveloped and rushed. But readers hungry for intersectional ace (and frequently also aro) representation will be pleased to see a range of queer identities, racial backgrounds, and disabilities (including a protagonist with hyperacusis and cerebral palsy who uses a power wheelchair).

May not take the whole cake, but asexual readers hungry for representation will find some outstanding pieces to dig into.

Being Ace

🎉 A Pocketful of Adventure: “Study Night at the Museum” 🎉

And just when you thought that was it for October, here’s another delightful surprise: “Study Night at the Museum” is now available in a cozy 4×6 paperback! This story, previously featured in the Unbound anthology, has been reincarnated in this tangible format, complete with stunning artwork by the phenomenal Xenida.

What’s worse than finding a mummy in your breakroom? Finding one – then losing it.

When Kate is uprooted from her familiar world and thrust into a new school in a new town, all she wants is to get through her senior year unnoticed. Instead, she finds herself staying late in the eerie library of the Natural History Museum, unraveling the mysteries of ancient Egypt with a girl named Nat who is just as much an enigma.

But when a 5,000-year-old mummy with a sweet tooth for yogurt decides to join their late-night study sessions, bringing with it a mystery that defies logic and science, Kate and Nat are thrust into a spine-tingling race against time to avoid becoming a permanent exhibit themselves.

Can Kate and Nat outwit a menace five millennia in the making, or will they – like Kate’s unopened textbooks – be left in the dust?

Will Kate and Nat solve the mummy mystery before it’s too late? Grab your copy and dive into their enchanting world.

This belongs in a museum!

In closing, thank you for accompanying me on these literary journeys. This #booktober (that’s totally a thing now) has been a whirlwind, and I couldn’t be more excited to share these stories with you. Here’s to many more tales, adventures, and, of course, to you, dear readers.

Stay spooky, and may your October be filled with fantastic reads,

Sarah 🍂🎃

P.S. Once you’re wrapped up in the ghostly adventures (or even before!), snap a pic of your reading setup and share your thoughts. I’m always thrilled to see where my tales take root in your world. 🖤📖

Starling House by Alix E. Harrow: A Mesmerizing Gothic Tale

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Hello, fellow bookworms! I’ve taken a little time off the blog to deal with my brain refusing to brain, but I also had the opportunity to read some incredible books over the summer which I can’t wait to share with you. Let’s start with Starling House, Alix E. Harrow’s latest gem!

There are very few books that can ensnare you from the very first page. As I delved into its pages, I was immediately captivated by an ineffable magic, a blend of Harrow’s atmospheric style, intriguing characters, and an intricate setting.

Blurb

A grim and gothic new tale from author Alix E. Harrow about a small town haunted by secrets that can’t stay buried and the sinister house that sits at the crossroads of it all.

Eden, Kentucky, is just another dying, bad-luck town, known only for the legend of E. Starling, the reclusive nineteenth-century author and illustrator who wrote The Underland–and disappeared. Before she vanished, Starling House appeared. But everyone agrees that it’s best to let the uncanny house―and its last lonely heir, Arthur Starling―go to rot.

Opal knows better than to mess with haunted houses or brooding men, but an unexpected job offer might be a chance to get her brother out of Eden. Too quickly, though, Starling House starts to feel dangerously like something she’s never had: a home.

As sinister forces converge on Starling House, Opal and Arthur are going to have to make a dire choice to dig up the buried secrets of the past and confront their own fears, or let Eden be taken over by literal nightmares.

If Opal wants a home, she’ll have to fight for it.

What I loved

The Enigmatic Setting

Set in Eden, Kentucky, ‘Starling House’ navigates through a gothic tale touching upon themes like money, power, and the haunting legacy of environmental damage in middle America. But perhaps the most evocative part of the novel is the titular Starling House itself. This house isn’t just a backdrop or a setting; it’s a character. Haunted yet very much alive, it brims with monsters and memories. Harrow’s words paint it so vividly that it emerges from the pages, demanding to be felt, understood, and sympathized with.

Our Protagonist, Opal

Opal is a character with depth and layers. She’s portrayed with a prickly exterior which, when peeled back, reveals a soul laden with burdens and a past that continually weighs her down. Her inadvertent entanglement with the foreboding Starling House, and its enigmatic owner, becomes the crux of a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

A Tale Familiar Yet Unique

While reading, I experienced an uncanny sense of déjà vu, not because it was repetitive, but because it felt like a quintessential Mining Town Folk Tale. It seemed to blend the eerie charm reminiscent of Sabrina’s first season with the bone-chilling suspense of a Stephen King novel. The undercurrents of a darker Wonderland blending with the real world add a touch of magical realism that’s both enchanting and intriguing. Harrow succeeds in intertwining both the fantastical and the mysterious, crafting a narrative that’s as much a mystery as it is a fairy tale.

Final Thoughts

Starling House stands out as a narrative triumph. It is beautifully written, hauntingly atmospheric, and rich in character development. If you’re on the lookout for a gripping read this spooky season, this should undoubtedly be on your list. Harrow has once again showcased her prowess in storytelling, and I eagerly await her next masterpiece.

Expected publication October 3, 2023