An Academy for Liars
An Academy for Liars' plot structure, forbidden student-teacher relationship, and lack of chemistry between Lennon and other characters hinder reader enjoyment and immersion into Drayton College's mysterious world.
The Ravenswood Witch
Jenni Keer's novel The Ravenswood Witch is a character-driven story that seamlessly blends different perspectives, creating a captivating atmosphere. The story explores themes of good and bad, forgiveness, and the need for trust and love. Despite being a quick read, it is an enjoyable and thought-provoking read for the autumn season. Keer's ability to create a unique and captivating world adds to the overall experience.
The Land of the Living and the Dead Review
Ending the Gael song trilogy with The Land of the Living Dead offers a near-perfect end with complex, exciting storylines with Irish mythologies as its backdrop. Lawless creates an engrossing, twisting story that dramatically weaves in history, culminating in an unexpected ending, making it a perfect choice for readers who enjoy myth and history.
A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets Review
A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets skilfully portrays the challenges faced by a woman in a male-dominated profession in the 1900s without compromising Saffron's character. However, the pacing of the book may disappoint mystery lovers, as progress on the main tasks is delayed by sub-plots. Overall, A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets offers an enjoyable read, but its pacing may leave readers wanting more.
The Fates: Review
Greek mythology, specifically retelling, is a popular choice amongst writers and readers, and while some authors find a new voice for their leads, it felt as though Garland struggled to find individual personalities for the three fated sisters. Some moments of The Fates were insightful, but they were few and far between, which is a shame given the potential of this retelling.
The Voyager: Review
The Voyager is an interesting debut novel and given how Carlucci can transport a reader with his descriptive prose will have them eagerly awaiting his next release. It’s a thought provoking novel with themes around deception and moral ambiguity told through a boy’s journey that is a clear recommendation for those who enjoy historical fiction.
Neferura: Book Review
Neferura, the daughter of Egypt's renowned female pharaoh, is a forgotten piece of history. Malayna Evans tells her story in three parts, focusing on her internal struggles and uplifting female friendships. However, the story lacks substance and pacing issues, making it feel like it was intended for a younger audience. Improving with elements like dark fantasy or magical realism could elevate the story.
The Hunting Moon: Review
All things considered, The Hunting Moon is a good sequel to The Luminaries, offering a fresh perspective on Hemlock Falls and even the terrifying dwellings within the forest. The book's second half will keep you engrossed, and even its sporadic and pointless romantic subplot doesn't stop the reader from having a thrilling time.
Assassin's Creed: Daughter of No One Review
Assassin's Creed: Daughter of No One by Maria Lewis is a video game book that expands on the master assassin Roshan, introduced in Assassin's Creed: Mirage. The book features dual timelines, allowing exploration into Roshan's character at different parts of her life. However, the book's short chapters and lack of nuance or buildup in the main character and side characters make it less compelling than the game. The book provides more insight but not enough to make Roshan compelling, making it a potential game DLC over a novel.