Lady knights? A medieval-inspired setting? A rich magical world built around loyalty, sacrifice, and political conflict? It sounded as though it had been written specifically for me. And while there is a great deal here that I genuinely enjoyed, it ultimately never quite came together in the way I’d hoped. … More Review: The Second Death of Locke by V.L. Bovalino
Historical fiction lives and dies by its ability to breathe life into figures from the past, and while El-Arifi presents an interesting interpretation of one of history’s most famous women, I never truly felt as though I was reading about Cleopatra. … More Review: Cleopatra by Saara El-Arifi
March is here, and the shelves are calling louder than ever. This month’s releases sweep from atmospheric literary fiction and enchanting fantasy, to page-turning crime and fascinating history, offering something for every kind of reader. Whether you’re chasing springtime inspiration or just looking for your next unputdownable read, March has plenty to tempt you back to the pages. … More Books for March
New month, new excuses to add to the TBR. February’s releases bring everything from sweeping historical sagas and dark fantasy to clever thrillers and illuminating non-fiction. Whether you’re looking to escape into far-off worlds or dive deep into real-life stories, this month’s selection promises to keep readers turning pages long after Valentine’s chocolate is gone. … More February in Books
Sycorax is a richly written, character-driven novel that rewards patience and attention. Its beautiful prose, emotionally complex relationships, and unflinching honesty make it a powerful reimagining of a marginalised literary figure. While it may not be a book for those seeking a fast-paced plot, it is deeply satisfying for readers drawn to myth, language, and character above all else. … More Book Review: Sycorax by Nydia Hetherington
Sistersong is a novel that gripped me almost immediately – and then, frustratingly, lost its footing just as it reached its conclusion. It’s a book full of promise, rich themes, and strong character work, but one that ultimately falters under the weight of its own ambition. … More Book Review: Sistersong by Lucy Holland
New year, same habit: buying more books. As 2026 gets underway, January brings a fresh slate of compelling new releases across fiction and non-fiction, from richly imagined historical novels and cosy fantasy to gripping history and thrilling crimes. Whether you’re easing into the year or already tearing through books at speed, there’s plenty here to tempt you back to the shelves. … More January’s Best Books
If ever there was a fantasy series that just keeps ascending, this is it. The Dark Mirror, the long-awaited fifth volume in The Bone Season saga, is everything I wanted – and then some. Samantha Shannon doesn’t just revisit her world – she expands it. … More Book Review: The Dark Mirror by Samantha Shannon
The Raven Scholar is exactly the kind of fantasy novel I’ve been hankering for. It’s not just escapism – it’s high fantasy executed with intelligence, depth, and a sense of wonder that hearkens back to why I fell in love with the genre in the first place. … More Book Review: The Raven Scholar by Antonia Hodgson
It looks like April is shaping up to be a month of fascinating fantasy releases, with new releases from old favourites like Olivie Blake and Luke Arnold, and debuts by newcomers such as M. H. Ayinde, there’s sure to be something to immerse you in a world of magic and wonder. … More Best books of April
The Ink Thief 