56 DAYS by Catherine Ryan Howard

56 DAYS

’56 days’ is the first book I have read that is set in this COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, this book puts a magnifying glass on the early days of the pandemic. Catherine Ryan Howard does a great job of capturing the uncertainty and apprehension of that time. While this could potentially be triggering for some readers, in my opinion, it helped make the story even more engaging and realistic.

THE JASMINE THRONE by Tasha Suri

THE JASMINE THRONE

I see you, Tasha Suri! Tasha has written a really amazing high fantasy book and made it look ridiculously easy! In fact, Tasha’s vivid and captivating writing is one of the things I love most about this book. Each detail is brought to life with such clarity that I could not help but be absorbed by the fascinating world and tale that unfolds. There are no mountains of information or excessive details for readers to wade through. Instead, both the world-building and magic system are gently introduced throughout the book in a manner that is not overwhelming or confusing.

THE COURT OF MIRACLES by Kester Grant

THE COURT OF MIRACLES

I have to start this review by celebrating my very first completed audiobook! No one is more shocked than me by how much I loved listening to the narration of this book. I certainly did not expect to be able to focus on the narrated story as my mind tends to wander when I listen to people talk for a long time. Although this was not a huge problem here, I cannot tell how much of this was because of the narration or the story.

OCTOBER 2021 Monthly Spotlight

October 2021 monthly spotlight featured image

As the leaves fall and we get into the swing of autumn, ’tis the season to read a nice fantasy book by the fire. Or cosy up in bed with a heart-thumping crime novel as the days get colder. Or perhaps a spooky read with all the lights on in advance of Halloween? Regardless of where or what you choose to read, below are our favourites picks from the new releases this month to help inspire your next exciting read:

SIX CRIMSON CRANES by Elizabeth Lim

SIX CRIMSON CRANES

Despite the hype that surrounds it, ‘Six Crimson Cranes’ was not high on my list of books to read. The mediocre blurb failed to entice me with its offer of a light-hearted and fluffy, Young Adult (YA) read. It was not until I came across its beautiful cover at the bookstore that I was drawn to this book.
It was love at first sight! The elegant font, simple illustration and soft, pastel colours grabbing my attention and demanding that I read this book.