Review: Under the Oak Tree Vol. 2 by Suji Kim

Name: Under the Oak Tree Vol. 2 (Under the Oak Tree novels #2)

Author: Suji Kim

Publisher: Inklore

Date published: November 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance

Pages: 416

Rating: 5/5

As her first winter in Anatol turns to spring, Lady Maximilian finds herself confronting an unfamiliar hope. Her voice and her magic strengthen every day; the only parts of Calypse Castle left to refurbish are its gardens, which she plans to fill with blooming flowers; and the way her husband, the recalcitrant war hero Sir Riftan, looks at her from across their bedroom makes her feel, for the first time in her life, that she might be worthy of love and affection.
However, Maxi's life is never that easy. Just as she begins to feel at home with Riftan, Maxi receives a surprise visit from Princess Agnes, the renowned sorceress who might have become Riftan's wife if he'd decided to divorce Maxi after the Dragon Campaign. Not at all what Maxi expected, the princess stirs up complicated emotions and politics that could lead to monumental changes in Maxi and Riftan's relationship. 

- From Goodreads. 

I really loved the character development for Maxi in this volume, she has already come so far since the beginning of this story and I think it really shows what a strong character she is. After everything she's been through, it's not easy for her to be the lady of the castle, but she tries so hard and puts in a lot of work to learn, and it really shows her bravery. I also think it shows that even though they still have a lot to work on, her relationship with Riftan is good and will stand the test of time, because even though she is still nervous and insecure, she still finds the strength to speak up for herself and manages to ask for what she wants, even when she knows Riftan might not want the same thing. Even when she knows she might upset him, she has learnt to still express herself and her opinions, and feels safe enough to do so.

It was interesting to see more of the world and the creatures living in it as they set off travelling in the second half of this volume. It felt like a very expansive world and the different magical creatures they encountered definitely made for some exciting and suspenseful action scenes! 

I am just really enjoying this story so far and definitely feel very invested in finding out what happens next in Maxi's story and how she continues to grow. I really want a happy ending for her and really do feel like she has a strong chance of finding it with Riftan, even though they still have a lot to learn about each other and have a lot of growing to do together. Whatever happens in the next volumes, I'm sure they'll be enjoyable to read! 

Review: A Waltz of Sinister Import by Stephanie Burgis

Name: A Waltz of Sinister Import (The Supernatural Adventures of Lady and Lord Riven #3)

Author: Stephanie Burgis

Publisher: Five Fathoms Press

Date published: October 2026

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, vampires, historical

Rating: 5/5 

Thank you to the author for sending me an early review copy of this book!  

When the notorious Lady Riven is summoned to Vienna to solve a supernatural mystery, her debonair vampiric husband insists on accompanying her. However, neither of them is prepared for the true scope of the danger lurking within the sprawling Hofburg Palace... and by the time they uncover the truth behind every glittering illusion, their relationship may change forever.

- From Goodreads. 

I like that with each novella in this series, the world has widened a little bit, we've learnt more about its history, met more of its characters, and visited new places. It meant that while we got to see Margaret and Lord Riven learn more about each other and their relationship, we also get to learn more about the world and their perspective on it.

The mystery in this one was very fascinating, and I think it made the story feel both whimsical and sinister at the same time. All three novellas have had fairytale elements, but this is the one that felt the most like we were being immersed in a fairytale, which I loved.

I liked that Margaret and Lord Riven continued to grow together and to understand each other better, they faced challenges that could have pulled them apart but actually helped them grow closer and helped them to be more honest with each other and less afraid to show their emotions. They are a very endearing couple, and it is very clear how much they care about each other, which is so lovely and enjoyable to read.

I think this installment wrapped up their story well, but I would definitely be happy to read more stories about Lady and Lord Riven if there ever are any more. I am sure the two of them could find enough adventures to fill up a few novels at least!

Review: Paladin's Faith by T. Kingfisher

Name: Paladin's Faith (The Saint of Steel #4)

Author: T. Kingfisher

Publisher: Orbit 

Date published: First published December 2023, this edition published April 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, romance, fantasy, mystery, adventure

Pages: 480

Rating: 5/5

Marguerite Florian is a spy with two problems. A former employer wants her dead, and one of her new bodyguards is a far too good-looking paladin with a martyr complex.
Shane is a paladin with three problems. His god is dead, his client is much too attractive for his peace of mind, and a powerful organization is trying to have them both killed.
Add in a brilliant artificer with a device that may change the world, a glittering and dangerous court, and a demon-led cult, and Shane and Marguerite will be lucky to escape with their souls intact, never mind their hearts… 

- From Goodreads. 

Once again I am impressed that all the books in this series have the same feeling of being a comforting and entertaining fantasy romance, whilst also managing to have such different plots. All the stories go in such different directions and have distinct characters, while also having a similar tone, humour and feel-good message that keeps the series cohesive and still feeling like there is an overarching plot that flows well between books.

This book really set up a lot for the rest of the series and I am very excited to see how it continues, both for the romantic stories between the new couples, and for the wider fantasy plot. There are just always so many fascinating details that make the world fully realised and such an interesting setting for the characters' stories to take place in.

I loved the two main characters in this story, Marguerite and Shane. It was wonderful to see Marguerite again and learn more about her after briefly meeting her in the first book, and I think she worked well opposite Shane, who, like all the other paladins so far, was very compelling and sympathetic. I also thought it was fun that he was especially good at the "paladin voice", and how that came to be significant in the plot at the end.

I really recommend this series, it's a wonderful balance of clever fantasy plot, brilliant humour, a little touch of horror, and really lovely romance. I'm so looking forward to the rest of the books in this series, and more from T. Kingfisher in general. 

Review: Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by Emily Krempholtz

Name: Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain Anymore

Author: Emily Krempholtz

Publisher: Sphere

Date published: November 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, cosy

Pages: 359

Rating: 4/5

Guy Shadowfade is dead, and after a lifetime as the dark sorcerer’s right-hand, Violet Thistlewaite is determined to start over - not as the fearsome Thornwitch, but as someone kind. Someone better. Someone good.
The quaint town of Dragon’s Rest, Violet decides, will be her second chance - she’ll set down roots, open a flower shop, keep her sentient (mildly homicidal) houseplant in check, and prune dark magic from the twisted boughs of her life.
Violet’s vibrant bouquets and cheerful enchantments soon charm the welcoming townsfolk, though nothing seems to impress the prickly yet dashingly handsome Nathaniel Marsh, an alchemist sharing her greenhouse. With a struggling business and his own second chance seemingly out of reach, Nathaniel has no time for flowers or frippery - and certainly none for the intriguing witch next door.
When a mysterious blight threatens every living plant in Dragon’s Rest, Violet and Nathaniel must work together through their fears, pasts, and growing feelings for one another to save their community. But with a figure from her past knocking at her door and her secrets threatening to uproot everything she’s worked so hard to grow, Violet can’t help but wonder... does a former villain truly deserve a happily-ever-after?

- From Goodreads. 

This was a very heartwarming and cosy fantasy romance, and I would definitely recommend it if you enjoy other cosy fantasy stories like Sarah Beth Durst's The Spellshop or Sangu Mandanna's The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches.

My only problem with the story was the conflict between Violet and Nathaniel towards the end that only seemed to be included to add to the tension and felt a little forced, like their character development was undone for a scene to make the end more suspenseful. I think that could have been done without forcing the conflict. Otherwise, I think the plot was very compelling and I was rooting for the two main characters to find their happy ending together.

I liked the concept of the story, I think the main character having a past in which she was very close to and helped a villain who did terrible things, and her feeling very confused and torn about how she felt about him made for a lot of interesting depth to her character and it was understandable that she felt so unsure of what her future would be without him. I really felt sympathy for her and hoped she would be able to live the peaceful life she wanted.

I do recommend this if you are looking for an easy-to-read, light-hearted fantasy romance, it's not perfect but it is comforting and I think has a lovely happy ending. I would definitely be happy to read more from this author. 

BOOKS | Review: Swordheart by T. Kingfisher

Name: Swordheart (Swordheart #1, The World of the White Rat)

Author: T. Kingfisher

Publisher: Orbit

Date published: First published November 2018, this edition June 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance

Pages: 448

Rating: 5/5

Halla is a housekeeper who has suddenly inherited her great-uncle's estate... and, unfortunately, his relatives. Sarkis is an immortal swordsman trapped in a prison of enchanted steel. When Halla draws the sword that imprisons him, Sarkis finds himself attempting to defend his new wielder against everything from bandits and roving inquisitors to her own in-laws... and the sword itself may prove to be the greatest threat of all.

- From Goodreads. 

I have really enjoyed starting to read T. Kingfisher in the past year and this book was certainly no exception. It was another brilliant story with excellent humour, a fascinating word and a really wonderful romance.

The concept of a warrior trapped in a sword, enchanted to serve whoever wields it, made for a very fun and adventurous plot, with some delightful hijinks throughout, and Halla and Sarkin were both such compelling characters to follow along for that plot. Both of them were very endearing and it was lovely to see them come to admire and trust each other so much.

There were some very brilliant side characters too, especially Brindle and Zade, who it was wonderful to see again as they have both appeared before in books set in the same world, and I would be happy to see them both again as they added a lot of enjoyable moments to the story. 

All of the books I have read so far from T. Kingfisher have been amazing and this one has just made me even more excited to pick up another one. 

BOOKS | Review: Empire of Sand by Tasha Suri

Name: Empire of Sand (The Books of Ambha #1)

Author: Tasha Suri

Publisher: Orbit

Date published: November 2018

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance

Pages: 432

Rating: 5/5

Mehr is a girl trapped between two cultures. Her father comes from the ruling classes of the empire, but her mother’s people were outcasts, Amrithi nomads who worshipped the spirits of the sands.
Caught one night performing these forbidden rites, Mehr is brought to the attention of the Emperor’s most feared mystics, who try to force her into their service by way of an arranged marriage. If she fails in their bidding, the gods themselves may awaken and seek vengeance...

- From Goodreads. 

This was a very intricately detailed story, with a lot of thought put into the world-building, and wonderfully well-written characters. 

It definitely hooked me in and made me worried for both Mehr and Aman, I really felt emotionally invested in their journey and hoped they found a way to escape the horrible situation they were in together.

It felt like a very complex world with a lot of different stories to explore within it, so I'm glad there's another book where we can see more of the world and what the consequences of what happened in this book will be.

I think if you love fantasy with in-depth world building, well-rounded and complicated characters and a lovely romance where two characters find hope and comfort in each other despite the darkness surrounding them, then I can definitely recommend this book to you. I will certainly be going on to read more of Tasha Suri's work after this. 

BOOKS | Review: Paladin's Hope by T. Kingfisher

Name: Paladin's Hope (The Saint of Steel #3, The World of the White Rat)

Author: T. Kingfisher

Publisher: Orbit

Date published: April 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, mystery

Pages: 288

Rating: 5/5

 

Piper is a lich-doctor, a physician who works among the dead, determining causes of death for the city guard's investigations. It's a peaceful, if solitary profession... until the day when he's called to the river to examine the latest in a series of mysterious bodies, mangled by some unknown force.
Galen is a paladin of a dead god, lost to holiness and no longer entirely sane. He has long since given up on any hope of love. But when the two men and a brave gnole constable are drawn into the web of the mysterious killer, it's Galen's job to protect Piper from the traps that await them.
He's just not sure if he can protect Piper from the most dangerous threat of all...

- From Goodreads. 

This was another wonderful book in the Saint of Steel series, it still had the brilliant humorous writing style and intriguing mystery in the plot, along with a very compelling romance. I do like that, although each book has had a mystery in its plot, the structure of the plot has been different in each one, and I've always been surprised by how each mystery unfolds.

I loved the characters that we followed in this book, both Galen and Piper had their problems to work through, and it was good seeing them have to face their own demons and overcome them through the course of the book. I loved that their romance was quite sweet with how much they cared about each other and how much comfort they found in each other and I thought that was balanced well with their physical attraction to each other.

Earstripe was another great character, who was very funny at times but also had great depth and fit in well with the other two characters.

I'm intrigued by the overarching plot of the series, I like how it goes on in the background of each book and each book adds bits and pieces to the mystery, but none of them have completed the full picture yet. I'm definitely curious to see what will happen in the next book and how things will conclude when the series finishes.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this series, all the books so far have been a lot of fun and I haven't found anything to fault in any of them! 

BOOKS | Review: The Tomb of Dragons by Katherine Addison

Name: The Tomb of Dragons (The Cemeteries of Amalo #3, The Chronicles of Osreth #4)

Author: Katherine Addison

Publisher: Solaris

Date published: March 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, steampunk, mystery

Pages: 380

Rating: 4/5

This review contains major spoilers.  

Thara Celehar has lost his ability to speak with the dead. When that title of Witness for the Dead is gone, what defines him?
While his title may be gone, his duties are not. Celehar contends with a municipal cemetery with fifty years of secrets, the damage of a revethavar he’s terrified to remember, and a group of miners who are more than willing to trade Celehar’s life for a chance at what they feel they’re owed.
Celehar does not have to face these impossible tasks alone. Joining him are his mentee Velhiro Tomasaran, still finding her footing with the investigative nature of their job; Iäna Pel-Thenhior, his beloved opera director friend and avid supporter; and the valiant guard captain Hanu Olgarezh.
Amidst the backdrop of a murder and a brewing political uprising, Celehar must seek justice for those who cannot find it themselves under a tense political system. The repercussions of his quest are never as simple they seem, and Celehar’s own life and happiness hang in the balance.

- From Goodreads. 

I really enjoyed this story in the Cemeteries of Amalo series, it continued the excellent character development of the previous books, had wonderful subtle humour woven throughout the narration, and included another intriguing mystery. There were only a couple of things that kept it from being five stars and they didn't really stop me from enjoying the reading experience.

First I was quite surprised that Iäna didn't turn out to be a love interest for Thara, as it had seemed to be building towards that in the first two books, but I did like that their friendship was still shown to be very important and it was nice to see two male characters who were allowed to show their feelings for each other and care for each other intensely, even when it wasn't romantic. I also did like the love interest that was introduced for Thara, Captain Olgarezh. He was very captivating and I would have been fascinated to learn more about him, and I thought the relationship that built between him and Thara was very sweet. My only problem was that it felt like we didn't really get enough time to see their relationship, and the end of the book did feel quite abrupt, so it felt like the story cut off before we really got the chance to see how they would be together.

That was my only other problem with the book, that the ending happened quite suddenly. It felt like not everything had been properly resolved with each character and like we hadn't seen the end of all their journeys. It does make me wonder if this is not the last we'll see of these characters and if we'll see them again in future books.

It was delightful to briefly return to the royal court for part of the book, and especially delightful to see Maia again. It was interesting to see him outside of his own persepective and wonderful to see him continue to be such an excellent emperor. It made me want to see more from him again, even if he's not the main character, in another book, although it would be amazing if he was! I certainly hope everythig goes well with his wedding!

Overall, although there were a couple of things that stopped me from rating this as highly as the other books in the series, I still really enjoyed it and think it's worth reading and I'm still excited to read any further books set in this world! 

BOOKS | Review: Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood

Name: Rewitched (Rewitched #1)

Author: Lucy Jane Wood

Publisher: Pan MacMillan

Date published: September 2024

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, cosy, witches

Pages: 416

Rating: 5/5

Belladonna Blackthorn hasn’t lost her magical spark... but she hasn’t seen it in a while, either.
Balancing work at her beloved Lunar Books with protecting it from her toxic boss, who’s running it into the ground, and all the while concealing her witchcraft from the non-witches around her - Belle is burnt out. Perfecting the potential of her magic is the last thing on her mind.
But when her 30th birthday brings a summons from her coven, and a trial that tests her worthiness as a witch, Belle risks losing her magic forever. With the month of October to fix things, and signs that dark forces may be working against her, Belle will need all the help she can get - from the women in her life, from an unlikely mentor figure, and even an (infuriatingly handsome) watchman who’s sworn to protect her...

- From Goodreads. 

This was so lovely and charming, and a very sweet story about finding confidence in yourself and being brave enough to take risks and do things that might be scary but will result in amazing things for you if you take the chance. 

I loved how the magical world was fit into our own, it was very fun to see how the magic worked and how different witches and warlocks used it.

All the characters were very enjoyable to read about and all of them had interesting and full lives and stories to tell. I liked that Bella learnt a lot from each different character and they all really contributed something to the story and Bella's journey of finding more confidence in herself.

I would definitely recommend this if you enjoy cosy fantasy stories like Sangu Mandanna's The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches and A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping, it had the same whimsical magic and wholesome found family, along with a little bit of heartwarming romance. 

BOOKS | Most Anticipated New Books of 2026

I had such a wonderful reading year last year, and I am so excited to see what 2026 will bring! These are the books I'm most eagerly awaiting the releases of this year.

1. Otherworld by L.L. Starling

Expected publication 1st November 2026

The Chronicles of Between #2 

With more leather pants references, chaos, and drunk unicorn action than its predecessor, OTHERWORLD is a rollicking fairy tale ride!

- Goodreads.

Between was so funny, clever and creative, I reread it towards the end of last year and had the most enjoyable time, so I am so excited to read more of this world, find out what happens next and just to get to read more of L.L. Starling's wonderful writing style. 

Between review 

2. The Antiquarian's Object of Desire by India Holton

Expected publication 21st April 2026

Love's Academic #3 

Magical-antique experts Amelia Tarrant and Caleb Sterling have been best friends forever, although lately each has begun secretly wishing for more than friendship. But when rumors about their relationship spread, they're forced to fake being enemies to protect their reputations and keep their jobs.
The resulting arguments spark havoc across Oxford University, and when they cause an explosion while fighting over a magical antique, it’s the final straw for their exasperated faculty head. He dispatches them to a job in Cumbria where even they can’t get into trouble... 
Which proves just how wrong one man can be. In a stormbound old manor house, Amelia and Caleb face magical mayhem and rampaging ghosts that make the previous havoc look mild in comparison. Most troublesome of all, though, is the secret of how they feel about each other. When it comes to tackling deadly antiques, hiding the truth in their hearts could destroy them for real. 

- Goodreads.

The first two books in this series were so fantastic, I just adore the humour and how witty the writing is, and how sweet and thoughtful the romances are, I just know this is going to be such a lovely reading experience! 

The Ornitholigist's Field Guide to Love review 

The Geographer's Map to Romance review 

3. Agnes Aubert's Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett

Expected publication 7th February 2026

Agnes Aubert is very fond of making lists. These lists kept her afloat when she lost her husband two years ago. And now, as the founder of a cat rescue charity, her meticulous organization skills feel like the only thing standing between her beloved cats - His Majesty, Banshee and sweet elderly Thoreau, to name a few - and utter disaster.
But when Agnes is forced to move the charity, she soon discovers that her new shop is being used as a front; right under her feet is the lair of the decidedly disorganised - not to mention self-absorbed and infuriatingly handsome - Havelock Renard.
Havelock is everything Agnes doesn't want in her life: chaos, mischief, and a little too much adventure. But as she gets to know him, she discovers he's more than the dark magician of legend, and that she may be ready for a little intrigue, perhaps even romance. After all, second chances aren't just for rescue cats...

- Goodreads.

I really, really loved the Emily Wilde series by this author, so I'm intrigued to see what a new story will be like from her and it sounds like it has a wonderfully cosy premise, which I always have a good time with.

Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries review 

4. The Orb of Cairado by Katherine Addison 

Expected publication 9th April 2026

The Chronicles of Osreth #1.1 

Five years ago, Ulcetha was studying at the University of Cairado, working his way toward becoming a scholar first-class in the Department of History. Then a prize artifact disappeared and Ulcetha, deftly framed, was kicked out. Now he works for a crooked importer, using his knowledge of elven history to write provenances for the fake artifacts Salathgarad sells.

When the airship Wisdom of Choharo explodes, killing the emperor and three of his four sons, it takes with it Ulcetha's best friend, Mara Lilana. But Mara leaves behind a puzzle - the one thing Ulcetha can't resist. And the puzzle leads Ulcetha back to the Department of History... and maybe the chance to clear his name. 

- Goodreads.

The Goblin Emperor is one of my favourite books of all time, and I loved rereading it for the 6th time last year, so of course I'm excited to read anything else set in this world, and I think the summary for this story sounds fascinating!

The Goblin Emperor review 

5. Enchanting the Fae Queen by Stephanie Burgis

Expected publication 27th January 2026

Queens of Villainy #2 

Queen Lorelei is a notorious fae seductress, with a trail of broken hearts in her wake. But behind her glamorous lifestyle and sparkling mask lurks a dangerously intelligent woman who’d do anything to keep her people safe - even kidnap the enemy empire’s most famous hero.
The virtuous high general Gerard de Moireul represents all that is moral and true. He has to, after his parents were executed for treason. The last thing he needs is the Queen of Balravia, who showers glitter and rainbow-colored sparkles everywhere she goes without the slightest regard for good taste, decorum, or royal dignity.
They’re opposites in every way, but when they’re swept up together in a grand - and deadly - fae tournament, they discover all of each other’s most hidden truths - and how perfectly they might be suited for each other after all.

- Goodreads.

The first book in this series was so much fun and just such a great fantasy romance, I'm curious to see what this next story will be like and to learn more about the characters we got a peak of in the first book.

Wooing the Witch Queen review 

6. Sea of Charms by Sarah Beth Durst

Expected publication 28th July 2026

Spellshop #3 

Marin is a supply runner with her own boat that she sails from island to island, delivering whatever anyone will pay her to deliver: letters, flour, even the occasional enchanted lemur. It’s a lonely life, but it’s hers, and she wouldn’t trade the freedom of the sea for anything. Her only companion is a sea serpent, Perri, whom she saved from a fisherfolk’s net.
One day, she sails to Alyssium and discovers the city is on fire. There’s been a revolution, and the empire has fallen. Marin, with Perri, begins transporting refugees, finding them new homes where they can start over. One such refugee is Dax, a composer who refuses to leave behind his instruments, no matter how much she tries to emphasize the gravity of the situation. Intrigued by his stubbornness, his passion for stories, and his charming smile, Marin discovers perhaps she isn’t saving him - maybe it’s the other way around. 

- Goodreads. 

 I loved the first two books in this world, reading them really was like getting a lovely warm hug, so I'm looking forward to finding another comfort read in this next book!

The Spellshop review

The Enchanted Greenhouse review 

7. Daggerbound by T. Kingfisher

Expected publication 25th August 2026

Swordheart #2 

Four hundred years ago, three warriors were trapped inside enchanted swords, cursed to be immortal servants of whoever wielded the blade. One of them is the Dervish, a restless, fiery soul who hates his captivity and hates his wielders even more, but has never found a way to escape the sword’s magic.
Then one day, a disillusioned scholar named Learned Edmund is tasked with delivering the sword to a distant city, and, in the greatest of peril, draws the blade. The Dervish finds himself bound to a sweet, brilliant, and above all kind young man. And while he may be able to protect Edmund from bandits, cultists, dragons, and strange inhuman diplomats, he may find it much harder to protect his own heart. 

- Goodreads.

I truly fell in love with T. Kingfisher this past year, and I'm so excited to read more. Swordheart was so delightful with its humour and also full of depth and feeling, which I think T. Kingfisher always balances well, and I can't wait to see what's next for this world.

Paladin's Grace review 

8. Lore Olmpus: Volume Ten by Rachel Smythe

Expected publication 2nd June 2026

Lore Olympus #10 

After years of yearning, the big day has finally arrived: Hades and Persephone are getting married! It’s the ceremony of the century, and practically all the gods are invited to celebrate the happy couple. The wedding, full of love and joy, provides a much-needed respite for the pantheon... but the newlyweds have no time for a honeymoon.
The king and queen of the Underworld begin unprecedented dives into the dream world to find the god that Kronos took hostage - and, hopefully, to get answers on defeating the furious titan once and for all. During their explorations, they begin to suspect that Persephone’s powers over spring may have been altered. Their theory is proven correct with deadly consequences: When Persephone returns to the Mortal Realm, she ushers in not the regular change of seasons, but a never-ending winter.
And while the gods worry about the total annihilation of the Mortal Realm, Apollo uses the chaos as cover for an attempt to kill Zeus. He claims his dying father’s throne and decrees that the only way to save the Mortal Realm is if Persephone - and her power - belong to him. The others reject his outrageous demand, proposing instead that whoever can fix the failing seasons will be named interim ruler of Olympus. Hope now rests with the struggling goddess to find a way to stop the treacherous Apollo and save humankind - or else be separated from Hades forever. 

- Goodreads.

Lore Olympus has been so enjoyable and fun to read so far, I know this next volume will be just as wonderful, with such a great art style and thrilling storyline.

9. The Eye of Leviathan by M.A. Carrick

Expected publication 14th July 2026 

The Sea Beyond #1 

In an alternate Spanish Golden Age, where the map becomes the territory and mapmakers are the architects of reality, the Council of the Sea Beyond has risen to unrivaled power, exploiting the world’s most precious resources for their own gain.⁣
Determined to discover how cosmographers pin down the islands of the Otherworld, Estevan seeks power with the Council of the Sea Beyond - but he risks the exposure of his own secrets, too. For he is a changeling, a faerie masquerading as a mortal. And for a faerie to enter the mortal world like that, a child must go the other way... ⁣
The Hungry Girl, the nameless human daughter whose place he took, has grown up opposite her “brother.” Lost among the fae and desperate to find some purpose for her pitiful existence, she leaps at the chance to help a group of Spanish explorers in the Sea Beyond... only to be horrified at the atrocities they commit.⁣
Soon the unlikely siblings will need to overcome their rivalry - because only together can they bring down Spain’s worlds-spanning empire and save the homes they have come to love.⁣ 

- Goodreads.

Last year I read the whole Rook & Rose trilogy in less than two weeks and was absolutely blown away. I'm already looking forward to rereading it at some point and immersing myself in such a fantastic story again, so of course I'm also excited to see what else this author duo has created.

A Mask of Mirrors review 

10. A Remedy for Fate by M.A. Kuzniar

Expected publication 12th March 2026

Prague, 1769. In the Magic Quarter of the jewel-box city of Prague, Thea runs Stiltskin's Apothecary. There, she brews potions to chase away nightmares and soothe heartache - and strikes bargains to change her customers' fates. The only fate she cannot change? Her own.
Seven years ago, Thea bargained away her heart and her memories to the apothecary's owner, the cold, yet enigmatic Jasper, for reasons she cannot remember, and a reward she cannot recall.
Then one day a stranger arrives with an unusual request. One that will upturn Thea's entire existence - and offer her a precious chance to recover her heart... 

- Goodreads.

Midnight in Everwood was such an enchanting story that I've loved rereading during Winter, and I'm looking forward to reading a new romance from this author. It sounds like the world and story could be very compelling!

Midnight in Everwood review 

Hopefully I will get to all of these books this year, and you'll see reviews for them all! I hope everyone has a fantastic reading year and finds some excellent new favourite books.  

BOOKS | Review: Paladin's Strength by T. Kingfisher

Name: Paladin's Strength (The Saint of Steel #2, The World of the White Rat)

Author: T. Kingfisher

Publisher: Orbit

Date published: April 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance

Pages: 448

Rating: 5/5

He’s a paladin of a dead god, tracking a supernatural killer across a continent. She’s a nun from a secretive order, on the trail of the raiders who burned her convent and kidnapped her sisters.
When their paths cross at the point of a sword, Istvhan and Clara will be pitched headlong into each other’s quests, facing off against enemies both living and dead. But Clara has a secret that could jeopardize the growing trust between them, a secret that will lead them to the gladiatorial pits of a corrupt city, and beyond...

- From Goodreads. 

This was as equally delightful as the first Saint of Steel book. T. Kingfisher has a wonderfully funny writing style and a great skill at writing characters who are full of personality and life.

I really adored the romance in this story, both Clara and Istvhan were so endearing, even when they were at their most awkward and felt like they were messing things up. They were both so thoughtful and caring and it was lovely to see them realise their feelings for each other and to see them work together and look out for each other.

It was thrilling following the mystery set up in the first book and to see how it came to a conclusion, I think it was very clever and unique and I am curious to see what mysteries will unfold in the next books! 

I'm really enjoying this series so far, and I'm excited to see how it continues, what new characters we'll meet and where the storyline will go. I think T. Kingfisher has built a very fascinating world with plenty of room to explore so it will be fun to find out more about it. 

BOOKS | Review: A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna

Name: A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping 

Author: Sangu Mandanna

Publisher: Hodderscape

Date published: July 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, cosy, witches 

Pages: 340

Rating: 5/5

Sera Swan used to be one of the most powerful witches in Britain. Then she resurrected her great-aunt Jasmine from the (very recently) dead, lost most of her magic, befriended a semi-villainous talking fox, and was exiled from her Guild. Now she (slightly reluctantly and just a bit grumpily) helps her aunt run an enchanted inn in Lancashire, where she deals with her quirky guests' shenanigans, tries to keep said talking fox in check, and longs for the future that seems lost to her. But then she finds out about an old spell that could hold the key to restoring her power...
Enter Luke Larsen, handsome and icy magical historian, who arrives on a dark winter evening and might just know how to unlock the spell’s secrets. Luke has absolutely no interest in getting involved in the madcap goings-on of the inn and is definitely not about to let a certain bewitching innkeeper past his walls, so no one is more surprised than he is when he agrees to help Sera with her spell. Worse, he might actually be thawing.
Running an inn, reclaiming lost magic, and staying one step ahead of the watchful Guild is a lot for anyone, but Sera Swan is about to discover that she doesn’t have to do it alone... and that the weird, wonderful family she’s made might be the best magic of all.

- From Goodreads. 

This was truly such a wonderful story, so comforting and with lovely meaning. Despite it being of course fantastical and delightfully magical, it still felt very real and relatable, and had me feeling quite emotional in some moments.

Luke and Sera were such loveable characters, the fact that they had both had such difficult pasts but both ended up finding family and a sense of belonging at the inn was so heartwarming. 

The setting of the inn was so charming and very creative and fun, all the characters that lived there and all the quirks of the place really made for some entertaining moments in the story.

I definitely recommend this if you enjoyed The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches, it has the same wholesome feeling, brilliant humour, characters you just have to care about, and a well-done and thoughtful message. 

BOOKS | Review: A Honeymoon of Grave Consequence by Stephanie Burgis

Name: A Honeymoon of Grave Cosequence (The Unexpected Adventures of Lady and Lord Riven #2)

Author: Stephanie Burgis

Publisher: Five Fathoms Press

Date published: September 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, vampires, historical

Rating: 5/5

Thank you to the author for sending me an early review copy of this book! 

Margaret, Lady Riven, never expected to find herself married, much less enjoying a honeymoon with her vampiric husband. Obviously, they’ve only agreed to stay married for logical, practical reasons, but Lord Riven has kept his promise to supply her with excellent tea and even better company as they travel together across the continent. Unfortunately, her newfound notoriety has traveled along with them - so she’s delighted when they arrive at a secluded inn deep within the Black Forest, far from high society.
However, the inn is full of lethal supernatural creatures who find Margaret’s arrival anything but welcome - and for all of Margaret’s academic prowess, she’s infamously inept at making friends. When a new threat appears in her own mirror, she realizes that the greatest danger is to her heart... and she’ll have to rely on a remarkable assortment of newfound allies to help her save the immortal vampire who holds it.

- From Goodreads. 

This was a very heartwarming and charming follow-up to A Marriage of Undead Inconvenience, I really enjoyed that this story was a little longer and we got to spend more time with Lord and Lady Riven and see how their relationship was developing. It was also fun to explore a new location and meet quite an eclectic set of new characters! There was an intriguing mystery to solve, some exciting confrontations and of course more delightful romance.

Margaret and Lord Riven's relationship is definitely my favourite part of these books, they work so well together, have such great chemistry and obviously care so deeply about each other. Every scene between them is so wonderful to read.

If we ever get more in this world, I will definitely be reading it, I would love to see more of Lady and Lord Riven's adventures, and I'll certainly continue to read more from Stephanie Burgis as she has a very engaging and clever writing style. I would recommend this series for you if you love other fun and charming fantasy romance series like the Emily Wilde trilogy by Heather Fawcett, or the Love's Academic series by India Holton.

BOOKS | Review: Blood Sanctuary: Part Two by Vela Roth

Name: Blood Sanctuary: Part Two (Blood Grace #4)

Author: Vela Roth

Publisher: Five Thorns Press

Date published: April 2022

Genre: Fiction, adult, romance, fantasy, vampires

Pages: 480

Rating: 5/5

 

When an ancient evil rises, can they save the peace talks and their love?
Lio and Cassia spend their nights in each other’s arms, but sit on opposite sides of the negotiation table. Their clandestine partnership has brought his immortal kin and her fellow humans close to a treaty after generations of violence. Lives hang in the balance. Failure means war. Peace would bring the future they hope for, when their love will no longer be forbidden.
Just when success is within reach, they realize their plan has played into the enemy’s hands. A threat lurks within the delegation, an old nemesis with magic unlike any they have ever faced. Together, are they strong enough to stop the destruction of everything they love?

- From Goodreads. 

This was a very thrilling and action-packed part of this series, it definitely felt like the stakes were raised! The plot became a lot more intense and I really wasn't sure how the main characters would get out of the complicated situation they found themselves in. The ending was certainly a surprise, and I thought it was a great climax and wrapped things up well, setting up a very interesting storyline for the rest of the series. I'm very curious to see where it goes from here!

I thought the side characters were all written very well and had real depth. I really love Callen and Perita and their love story and I hope we see them again in future books. I also thought the First Prince was a really empathetic character and it was emotional to see the pain he had been going through. I hope we see more of him too and see what happens with his story.

I love how Lio and Cassia continue to be so devoted to each other and how you can really tell they would do anything for each other. They're a wonderful couple to follow and you really believe they could get through anything together.

I really recommend this series so far, it's so fascinating and compelling and there's so much world and plot to dive into and explore and so many interesting characters to follow. I'm excited to keep reading! 

BOOKS | Review: Blood Sanctuary: Part One by Vela Roth

Name: Blood Sanctuary: Part One (Blood Grace #3)

Author: Vela Roth

Publisher: Five Thorns Press

Date published: March 2022

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, vampires

Pages: 474

Rating: 5/5

Their love could last for all time - unless the king’s assassins cut her life short...
Cassia has reunited with her beloved Lio in the land of eternal night. She longs to become an immortal Hesperine like him so they can stay together forever. But she’s torn between their happiness and her duty to the kingdom her human father rules. To free herself from the king, she must convince his ambassadors to ally with the Hesperines, despite centuries of conflict.
Lio will die if Cassia leaves him, but he won’t force her to stay by revealing their blood bond. While they negotiate for peace in public, he tempts her in private with the promise of everlasting passion. But their future may end before it begins when enemies within the embassy threaten her with a lethal spell.

- From Goodreads.

This was another very enjoyable installment in this series. Not everyone may enjoy the slow pace, but I really like how it takes its time to set each part of the plot in motion, helping us really understand the world and everything taking place in it, and I think all the plot twists and surprises are even more exciting due to the slow build up of the tension.

I loved how Lio and Cassia's relationship continued to grow and build in this book. Each problem they faced, even when it was due to their own feelings and insecurities, they found a way to work through it together and to talk through how they were feeling. I really loved reading about them together and look forward to seeing how their relationship develops in the future books.

The world-building continued to be very impressive in this book, it was very intricate and detailed, and I especially enjoyed the wonderful descriptions as we continued to learn more about the Hesperine's home and see all the magic of the land they had created for their sanctuary.

Overall, I'm continuing to really enjoy this series and I'm excited to keep reading and see what happens next and eventually see how it all wraps up! Lio and Cassia's journey is really compelling and I'm always curious to see how they face each obstacle and overcome them together. 

BOOKS | Review: The Tales of Arcana Fortune by Hafsa A. Jawad

Name: The Tales of Arcana Fortune

Author: Hafsa A. Jawad

Publisher: Independently published

Date published: June 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, fairy tales

Pages: 466

Rating: 4/5

Seven nights, Seven tales
Young healer Serena Rose has always dreamed of fairytales, but the chances of finding true love living alone in the a cottage by the wood are... slim. Instead, she spends her days chasing down mischievous woodland critters, brewing tonics, and taking care of her family's ancient records of fairytales, many of which have been outlawed in the kingdom of Lumina where she resides.
However her quiet life is upended when she is approached by a dark haired stranger searching for a book in her family’s collection, The Tales of Arcana Fortune. In between searching for more information on the book, and fighting their budding attraction, they accidentally free a malicious immortal sealed with an ancient spell.
Cursed to be trapped in a different fairytale each night, Serena must find a way through her trials all the while trying not to lose her life, her freedom, and her heart.

- From Goodreads. 

This was a very delightful story and I think anyone who enjoys fairy tales will have a great time reading it. I thought it was quite clever how the fairy tales used in the book became a part of the story and how they slowly began to change and become more relevant to the main characters as the curse they were in came to understand them better and gave them more difficult challenges.

I thought the villain of the story was a great character, even though he was clearly a sinister enemy, he was still interesting, and it was fascinating to learn more of his story, and his interactions with the main characters were always exciting to read.

The romance was really sweet and lovely, their affection for each other did happen quite quickly and occasionally felt very sudden, but mostly it was just so nice to see them face the challenges of the curse together and grow to trust and understand each other.

I would definitely recommend this if you're looking for a very sweet and comforting love story with plenty of fairytale adventure and nostalgia. 

 

BOOKS | Review: The Wraith King by Juliette Cross

Name: The Wraith King (The Rise of Northgall #1)

Author: Juliette Cross

Publisher: Independently published

Date published: September 2024

Genre: Fiction, adult, romance, fantasy

Pages: 454

Rating: 3/5

A brutal, bloody war against the ruthless Wraith King has cost the light fae more than innocent lives. Una Hartstone, Princess of Issos, learns the price the Wraith King demands to end the war once and for all. Her. In exchange for the safety of her people, she agrees to give her life - and her body - to her greatest enemy.
Gollaya Verbane is determined to fulfill his destiny and his god’s prophecy. When his seer points to the Princess of Issos as the key to the rise of the dark fae, he demands her submission. But when she finally yields, he realizes Una is much more to him than a priceless weapon.
A mystery that has haunted Una for years awakens when she is abducted and dragged back to Näkt Mir. The palace hides many dark secrets... and at least one traitor. A traitor determined to take King Goll’s throne - and all he possesses. What he doesn’t know is that Una’s magick is more powerful than he can imagine, and that Goll will burn the whole world to save her.

- From Goodreads. 

This was an enjoyable story and had a lot of potential but unfortunately did not quite meet that potential. I liked the premise of the princess agreeing to marry the king of an enemy kingdom and to give him an heir to end the war and bring peace to both of their kingdoms, but the execution of the plot was not as great as it could have been. I think it could have been as good as Radiance by Grace Draven, which I really love, but it just had some parts that let it down and fell a bit flat for me.

The romance was good, I liked that they were such different people but once they had time to know and understand each other they made good companions for each other. However, I think it would have been good to spend a little more time building their emotional connection, as I think a lot more time was spent on their attraction to each other and their physical connection. Their attraction was written well and I did believe it, but it did also feel quite sudden, and I think a little more time spent not focused on that aspect of their relationship would have helped to build the tension for the more physical scenes. Speaking of which, there were some intimate moments between them where the phrases or descriptions did pull me out of the momet, and I think a few different choices in phrasing could have kept the moments more immersive, but that could be down to personal preference.

I did find the world very interesting, especially the differences between the dark and the light fae and how they interpreted the old myths of their world. I was curious to learn more and would be happy to discover more from other books set in the world. I think the plot and writing did keep me invested enough to continue reading from this author and series, even though it was not perfect for me.

BOOKS | Review: The Enchanted Greenhouse by Sarah Beth Durst

Name: The Enchanted Greenhouse (Spellshop #2)

Author: Sarah Beth Durst

Publisher: Tor UK

Date published: July 2025

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, cosy

Pages: 384

Rating: 5/5

Terlu Perna broke the law because she was lonely. She cast a spell and created a magically sentient spider plant. As punishment, she was turned into a wooden statue and tucked away into an alcove in the Great Library of Alyssium.
When Terlu wakes up, she finds herself on a nearly-deserted island full of hundreds of magical greenhouses. The only other human on the island is a grumpy – but surprisingly sweet – gardener. He offers Terlu a place to sleep, clean clothes and freshly baked honey cakes – at least until she’s ready to sail home.
But Terlu can’t return and doesn’t want to. And when she learns that the magic that sustains the greenhouses is failing – causing the death of everything within them – Terlu knows she must stay and help. Even if that means breaking the law again. Assisted by the gardener, a sentient rose and a winged cat, Terlu must uncover the spell that will save the island – and possibly also find a fresh chance at love and happiness along the way.

 - From Goodreads. 

This was such a cute and wholesome book, and it definitely lived up to the expectations set by The Spellshop as to how enjoyable it would be to read.

The world continued to be very creative, the greenhouse was such a fun and magical setting and all the different creatures and plants that lived inside were so inventive. It really was so enjoyable just to read the descriptions of each different part of the greenhouse and to see what new and exciting things we would see in each one.

The characters were also just as loveable as in The Spellshop. Terlu was so sweet and empathetic in the way she worried about being too much and failing the people she cared about, and she was so kind and thoughtful, it was so lovely to see her find a place where she really felt like she belonged with people who really appreciated her. Yarrow was such a wonderful love interest, and very relatable with the way he didn't like to talk too much or to be around a lot of people for too long. It was really sweet to see them balance each other out and learn how to respect each other's needs and be a comfort to each other.

This book was very delightful and heartwarming to read and I was happy the whole time I was reading it. I will definitely be looking forward to reading any further books set in this world as I am sure it will be wonderful getting immersed in this cosy and fantastical world again. 

BOOKS | Review: Eidolon by Grace Draven

Name: Eidolon (Wraith Kings #2)

Author: Grace Draven 

Publisher: Independently published

Date published: April 2016

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance

Pages: 323

Rating: 5/5

In a bid for more power, the Shadow Queen of Haradis has unleashed a malignant force into the world. Her son Brishen, younger prince of the Kai royal house, suddenly finds himself ruler of a kingdom blighted by a diseased darkness and on the brink of war. His human wife Ildiko must decide if she will give up the man she loves in order to secure his throne.
Three enemy kingdoms must unite to save each other, and a one-eyed, reluctant king must raise an army of the dead to defeat an army of the damned.

- From Goodreads. 

This was definitely different to Radiance, with a lot more drama, angst and action, but it was still a great story, although it probably won't become as much of a comfort read as Radiance has become for me.

It was interesting to learn more about the world in this book, especially the politics and relationships between the different kingdoms. We saw some of it in the first book, but it was good to see it in more detail in this one.

It was certainly a more angst-filled storyline for Brishen and Ildiko, but it was clear they always cared for each other throughout the story and wanted to look after each other, and it was lovely to see them get through the difficulties and be stronger together at the end.

I think there were some wonderful new characters introduced, and we got to see more of Kirgipa, who we only saw briefly during the first book, and was a very sweet, likeable character. I really liked the start of the relationship that began between her and another new character, Necos. He was very kind and protective and I thought the two of them together were very wholesome. I would have loved to see more of them, and I did not expect to enjoy another perspective or point of view outside of Brishen's and Ildiko's, but I really liked all of Kirgipa's parts in the story.

Overall, it was a very thrilling and captivating story and a great conclusion to the conflict that was begun in the first book. I really love the characters and world and would always be happy to read more, even when it's just a cosy story about the characters with less focus on the plot. 

BOOKS | Review: My Roommate is a Vampire by Jenna Levine

Name: My Roommate is a Vampire (My Vampires #1)

Author: Jenna Levine

Publisher: Penguin

Date published: August 2023

Genre: Fiction, adult, fantasy, romance, vampires

Pages: 341

Rating: 5/5

Cassie Greenberg loves being an artist, but it’s a tough way to make a living. On the brink of eviction, she’s desperate when she finds a too-good-to-be-true apartment in a beautiful Chicago neighborhood. Cassie knows there has to be a catch - only someone with a secret to hide would rent out a room for that price.
Of course, her new roommate Frederick J. Fitzwilliam is far from normal. He sleeps all day, is out at night on business, and talks like he walked out of a regency romance novel. He also leaves Cassie heart-melting notes around the apartment, cares about her art, and asks about her day. And he doesn’t look half bad shirtless, on the rare occasions they’re both home and awake. But when Cassie finds bags of blood in the fridge that definitely weren’t there earlier, Frederick has to come clean...
Cassie’s sexy new roommate is a vampire. And he has a proposition for her.

- From Goodreads. 

This was such a fun, entertaining book! It was delightful in its humour and I laughed out loud multiple times. And although it was very lighthearted, the charaters still felt sincere and their feelings still felt meaningful.

Both Cassie and Frederick were very loveable characters. It was endearing how out of place Frederick was and how eager he was to learn about the world around him, and it was so sweet how earnest and serious he was about his attraction and feelings for Cassie. And it was wonderful to see how Cassie went from feeling so lost and unhappy with her circumstance to really finding somewhere she could fit in and where people believed in her and her passion and creativity.

I loved that it was a less serious vampire story and that the author had a lot of fun with it, I will definitely look forward to reading more from Jenna Levine and more in this world. I'm curious to see how she expands on this world and what her new characters will be like.