STAR BRINGER by Tracy Wolff and Nina Croft

As someone who doesn’t read much sci-fi, I was glad that the writing style was simple and easy to understand. Enough details are provided to bring the story to life, and multiple points of view (POVs) give the full scope of what key characters encounter and their emotions. Only the worldbuilding made this aspect of the story underwhelming, as it is presented in information dumps at the start and then poorly developed over the course of the story.

THE SERPENT AND THE WINGS OF NIGHT by Carissa Broadbent

The story unfolds from Oraya’s point of view in a simple writing style that is easy to follow. Although the numerous action scenes and characters are vividly detailed, the soft world-building lacks the rich details that would have brought it fully to life. Besides this, much of the world-building is told and not shown, which left me wanting more from the fascinating concepts involving vicious vampires, deities, magic and a complex political system.

GIDEON THE NINTH by Tamsyn Muir

The descriptive writing style is made even more engaging through a quirky and witty third-person narrative from Gideon’s point of view. Not only was the sarcastic, easygoing humour so entertaining that I was constantly laughing, but it also made Gideon’s character relatable and easy to like. While I also loved the captivating world, I craved a deeper exploration of the Houses and magic system.

THE POISON SEASON by Mara Rutherford

I loved the alternating third-person points of view from Leelo and Jared’s perspectives, as these provide a full scope of the unique world and tale. I only wish the magic of the islanders had been further expanded or given stronger ties to the storyline. Besides this, a descriptive writing style brings the story to life, despite some peculiar descriptions