Fantasy and I have an uneasy relationship. Some of my favorite books in the world are fantasies, or at least have fantastical elements. But I’ve also found many fantasy novels impenetrable due to world-building. When everything – people and place names, foods, societal structure and history – is made-up and ... more >
… a modern fantasy classic of forbidden love, a crumbling kingdom, and the unexpected magic all around us. Long ago and far away (and somewhere south of France) lies the kingdom of Esquaveta. There, Princess Tullia is in nearly as much peril as her struggling kingdom. Esquaveta desperately needs to ... more >
Life for a group of cats changes after a new kitten is brought into their family. Shaman is a Conjurepurr, one of a long-forgotten tradition of feline sorcerers. His arrival unlocks hidden mysteries and unleashes ancient nightmares on their peaceful home. Forced to battle terrifying monsters, the likes of which ... more >
As spiritualism reaches its fevered pitch at the dawn of the 20th century, a Scottish girl crosses the veil to unlock a powerful connection within an infamous asylum in this thrillingly atmospheric, exquisitely evocative exploration of feminine rage and agency. Leaving behind a quiet life of simple comforts, Nairna Liath ... more >
Dear Suzanne Collins: I was an enthusiastic fan of The Hunger Games trilogy back in the day, and enjoyed the movies as well (maybe “enjoyed’ isn’t the right word for a series so fraught with tragedy though). The ending of Mockingjay (both book and movie) was a bit of a ... more >
Having escaped conscription to the Storm Towers at the last moment?thanks to some very quick train-hopping?Cymin is thrilled to at last be living his dream of seeing new lands and making friends with the fascinating secular mages outside Lux Temple. There’s even a chance he could win over the enigmatic ... more >