hollylovesbooks 2:31 pm on 26th November 2021

October Wrap Up

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today I am doing my October wrap up. I read a total of 22 books this month. One of my best reading months for a while. I had a great month for ratings as well.

5 stars!

The last argument of kings by Joe Abercrombie

THIS BOOK!!!! This has to be one of the best conclusions to a trilogy/ series that I have ever read! It hurt but I loved it! I could not believe that this book is over 600 pages because it read really quickly. I’m very very excited to move onto the standalones as I have heard they are even better than the original trilogy… right now I can’t see how but I can’t wait!

4.5 stars;

The midnight peacock by Katherine Woodfine

This is by far my favourite book in this series. I loved book one a lot book 2 and 3 were good, but not as good as the first. Now though, I think book 4 is my favourite novel! I like how the book and series was concluded, obviously not completely as there is a follow up series with the some of the same characters, but the mystery was wrapped up well. The next series is called Taylor and Rose and Im excited to start it next month!

The lights of Prague by Nicole Jarvis

This was such an atmospheric book! I really liked the two main characters and the romantic tension between them. The willow the wisp was adorable also lol. I loved the setting and the world, I felt like I was actually in Prague. I really liked the way the pyjavis (vampires) were portrayed in this book. The politics was also very interesting. There were some parts that were quite slow but, I think this book is such an awesome read for this time of year, it’s so atmospheric.

Good girl bad blood by Holly Jackson

I really loved the first book and I also really loved this one. I was afraid that I wouldn’t remember enough but I did. I constantly wanted to read this one. I like that each book is sort of a new case in its own way and I can’t wait to see were the final book goes!

Chronicles of Iona by Paula de Fougerolles

Fougerolles has a really great way of taking history and blending it with brilliant storytelling. I really loved this book and this was an excellent start to a series. I can’t wait to dive into more of Fougerolles books. If you are a fan of historical fiction, I recommend picking this one up. If you want to see my full thoughts on this book click.

Treasure island by Robert Louis Stevenson

I read this when I was very young, I think, I cannot remember. Obviously there are phrases and sayings in here that I think are widely recognised but I couldn’t remember the little things, you know? I’m so so glad I read this because I loved it! I love anything pirate related and this book is definitely a favourite, I was afraid that I wouldn’t like it as I am older now, but it really is timeless.

Moondial by Helen Creswell

Trigger warnings for abuse. I cannot believe I hadn’t even heard of this book until I was browsing amazon. Anyone who knows me knows that I love any book that features time travel and this was no exception! Add to that ghosts and any form of spooky vibes and I’m even more obsessed! For a short (ish) book, it is really engaging, the end was a bit rushed but I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Nightfall by Shannon Messenger

I took a short break from this series and recently picked it back up again. It’s really nice to be back in this world with these characters. I really like Sophie and all of her friends, this world and the magic. These books never feel like there length, does that make sense? I can read these quite quickly for their size. I can’t wait to continue on with this series!

4 stars;

Into the crooked place by Alexandra Christo

I read to kill a kingdom by Christo and liked that book. But, I liked this one better. It reminded me a lot of six of crows, even though there are similarities is it very much it’s own book. The characters were my favourite part, as usual, they are very morally grey (my favourite kind of character) and I loved the love hate relationship they have with each other. I’m ready for the second book!

Empire of the vampire by Jay Kristoff

When it first started I was like ok, another vampire book, with cliche moments, but as I got further into it I enjoyed it more. I love how gothic this world feels. The action/fight scenes were really well done and I really liked them and Gabriel is a really great character. There were some parts that were quite slow and I found myself losing interest, but then it would pick back up again. I was really surprised how much I enjoyed this, I don’t know how I am going to wait for book 2!

Serpent and dove by Shelby Mahurin

When I picked this up the first time, I couldn’t get into this because I was busy at the time. I tried to pick it up again at the beginning of the year and still couldn’t get into it. This third read though, I finally managed to finish it. The audiobook definitely helped. The magic was really interesting and the characters, but there was some parts that really annoyed me lol. It was the perfect Halloween spooky read though.

The Cuban girls guide by Laura Taylor Namey

I have decided I really love books that have any form of cooking in them. My mouth was watering whilst reading this book. I liked Lila (the main character), she was dealing with quite a lot at the time and I liked her development. This would make a great summery read and whilst it was fluffy and fun it also deals with loss, so it does have some sad moments. I really liked it though!

Crowns of croswald by D. E. Night

I saw in, the blurb Narnia, Harry Potter and Alice in wonderland and immediately wanted to read it. It definitely has the whimsy and magical feeling to it. I liked the characters, there were a few cliche tropes in here, but I liked that, it gave me a nostalgic feeling for all those childhood favourites! Really enjoyed it!

Lakesedge by Lyndall Clipstone

This book was so eerie. I really enjoyed it. The perfect Halloween read, I’m so glad that I read it this month. The way it ended really has me anticipating book 2, I can’t wait to find out what happens next!

The goose girl by Shannon Hale

I really enjoyed this one. There are a few groped in here and cliche moments but it was published a while ago. I still enjoyed it though and I’m sorry I didn’t read this when I was younger because I would have loved it!

3.5 stars;

The bodysnatcher by Robert Louis Stevenson

I don’t usually read short stories but after listening to Ashley’s reading of the fall of the house of usher, I wanted to listen to more short stories. This being the perfect month for spooky stories, I decided to start with some spooky short stories! I have no idea how to rate short stories but based on the criteria of atmospheric and spooky vibes as well as enjoyment, this is the rating I would give it!

The fall of the house of Usher by Edgar Alan Poe

This is the first short story I have read/ listened to in forever. Ashley from a frolic through fiction did a Halloween spooky asmr reading of some of her favourite short stories and this was one of them. This was the perfect short story to get me in the Halloween mood, it’s so atmospheric and creepy and I really enjoyed it.

Air awakens by Elsie Kova

I went into this with quite low expectations because of all the mixed things I have heard. I was surprised by how much I liked it. The magic is really interesting, the characters intriguing and the world complex. I wish that some things would of been different and there were some slow parts, but overall, it was a fun and fast read.

Small favors by Erin A. Craig

I really liked the writing style in this book. The bee keeping aspects were also interesting. But some parts were really slow for me although, even though it did pick back up in places. I will likely read house of salt and sorrows because, again, I didn’t have a problem with the writing style.

The magic thief by Sarah Prineas

I read another book by Sarah Prineas called winterling which, I thought was just ok. This one I liked a lot more. I really like conn as a character and the wizard. I’m glad this is a series, I can’t wait to see what else they get up to in the next books.

3 stars;

The incredible exploding man by Dave Hutchinson

The first 25% of this book is very slow and whilst the science itself was interesting, I was disengaged from the rest of the story. I think for me the pacing was off and I just couldn’t really get into it. Overall, it was just an ok read.

Girl. Boy. Sea by Chris Vick

It was very different to what I was expecting. There were some bits at the very beginning that I found hard to believe. Some things annoyed me and some things had me intrigued and I did like the ending. Overall, this book was ok, just not what I was expecting.

That is everything that I read in the month of October. What did you read this month? Let me know in the comments below!

Thank you so much for reading!

hollylovesbooks 2:07 pm on 3rd November 2021

November TBR!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today I am doing my November tbr. Once again I have a really long tbr for the month, I will literally never learn😁. There is about 25 books on this tbr and it will likely, as usual, grow throughout the month.

Physical;

Best served cold by Joe Abercrombie

I got this book for Christmas from the wonderful Ellie @ReadtoRamble. I just finished the last argument of kings a few days ago and absolutely loved that book. It was such an epic conclusion to a trilogy. I’m really excited to get to the standalones especially since I have heard they are better than the original trilogy.

The arm of the Sphinx by Josiah Bancroft

This book was on my September and October tbr. I, unfortunately didn’t get to it in October so I have carried it over to November. The fourth and final book in this series comes out this month so at least once I catch up I can read the fourth one straight away🥳.

Moons over soho by Ben Aaronovich

This was also on my October tbr, but I didn’t manage to get to it (a theme that occurs throughout this tbr🙈😂). This is the second book in the rivers of London series. I read book 1 in September I think and really enjoyed it. I literally got one chapter into this book in October, I’m hoping I can finish this in the first week of November.

The three musketeers by Alexandre Dumas

I am so so hyped for this. I don’t hear anyone talk about it anymore but I’m really excited about reading this. I’m trying to read more classics, I have read quite a few in school but it’s nice to get it be able to choose which ones I read.

Vita nostra by marina Dyachenko

This was also on my October tbr. As I am posting this though, I have nearly finished it🥳. This is one of the three spooky ish books I had on my Halloween tbr and I’m hoping to finish them in the first week of November.

The free by Brian Ruckley

I haven’t heard anyone mention this book, I don’t think it’s very well known (correct me if I am wrong). It’s about mercenaries and war. It is also fantasy so I’m assuming it’s sword and sorcery? I’m not certain though so don’t quote me on that.

Tess of the d’Ubervilles by Thomas Hardy

This is the second classic I am reading this month. I am only doing two a month because I don’t want to do too many and then burn out. I decided to choose two that were very different to each other. I have heard good things about this one and that it is also sad and depressing lol.

Tokyo, ever after by Emiko Jean

Another one I planned to read in October. I didn’t know this was going to be a series, book 2 doesn’t come out unlit May next year. I was going to save this until nearer the time but I really want to read it. For those who have read this one, is it like a companion book or is it about the same characters? If so, does it end on a cliffhanger?

The eye of the world by Robert Jordan

I already have some pretty large books on this tbr so I have put this one on here but I’m not sure whether I will actually get to it. I would like to read this soon (as well as book2 and 3) so that I can watch the tv show but I will likely not be able to finish all three of these until next year.

The history keepers by Damien Dibble

This seems like a fun adventure series. It involves time travel, which is all I need to know. I love anything time travel.

Kindle/audio;

As good as dead by Holly Jackson

This is the third and final book in the a good girls guide to murder series. I have heard that this book is a lot darker than the previous two and I’m am so hyped for it!

I love you so mochi by Sarah Kuhn

I have this one on audio and it’s quite short, I’m hoping it will be a really quick read and just a fun and fluffy book to read in between some of the more dense books on my tbr.

The black prism by Brent Weeks

I also have this one on audio. I have already started this one when this post is going up. I have heard mixed things about this one, some really love it and some dislike it because its sexist? I’m not sure how accurate that is, so far I don’t really see a problem.

Sixteen scandals by Sophie Jordan

This is a historical regency romance and it sounds really fluffy and also funny. I also haven’t heard a lot of people talk about this one. I am hoping this will also be a quick in between read with all my other dense books.

If we were villains by M. L. Rio

This is the second of my Halloween reads that is left on my tbr. I’m also hoping to finish this one by the end of the first week in November. This is about a murder that takes place and a group of friends learning Shakespeare. Honestly that may be wrong because I don’t really want to know a lot about it, I want to go in quite blind.

The ember blade by Chris Wooding

… another book that was on my October tbr🙈. This is an epic adult sff adventure. I’m so excited to get to this one. It is really hyped in my mind and I’m worried it won’t live up to it, that’s why I kept putting off reading it in October.

All Rhodes lead here by Mariana Zanata

Yes, this was also on my October tbr, we are going it ignore how many books are from my October tbr even though I keep bringing it up🙈😁. I have heard amazing things about Mariana Zanatas books and writing.

Kings of paradise by Richard Nell

This is the first book in the ash and sand series. This is a series that is sometimes compared to Joe Abercrombie’s work. It is a dark fantasy book with politics and magic.

The grace of kings by Ken Liu

And it’s still here!!!🤦‍♀️ although I did manage to make a small bit of progress. I’m going to try and read at least two chapters a day of this and hopefully I will get back into it again. I don’t think it helps that I am intimidated by the size of the books in this series😂. If I don’t finish it this month I’m going to take it off the tbr for a while.

The vagrant by Peter Newman

I have already started this one but this book was also on my October tbr. It’s a really fast paced read so far and also has a mystery element to it. I really like it so far.

The ten riddles of eartha quicksmith by loris Owen

Ten riddles is our middle grade book club pick for our book club for the month of November. I had never heard of this one until it was featured in the poll. I’m really intrigued by this one.

Northern wrath by Thilde Kold Holdt

I had heard good things about this book and when I saw it was 99p on kindle, I decided to purchase it. This is a fantasy with Norse mythology, I’m really intrigued.

Peril in Paris by Katherine Woodfine

This is the first book in the Taylor and Rose, secret agents series. The same author and companion series to the Sinclair mystery series. I’m so excited to be back with these characters, I’m hoping some of the side characters are still featured.

The mystery of black hollow lane by Julia Nobel

This is the third and final book that was on my Halloween tbr. This is a mystery adventure thriller book set in a boarding school, it sounds really good!

Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay

I’m really intrigued by Guy Gavriel Kay’s books and this is were everyone says to start. I have recently seen some reviews that say this book isn’t very good , so a few mixed things but I’m going to start it and see what I think.

So, that is everything I am planning to read in November. It’s ambitious but hopefully this month I will manage complete near enough everything.

What are you planning on reading this month? Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

Thank you so much for reading!

hollylovesbooks 2:07 pm on 13th October 2021

September Wrap Up!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today I am doing my September wrap up. In September, I read a total of 14 books. It wasn’t my best reading month, but it was a busy month so, I’m not too disappointed.

I don’t really have anything else to say so, let’s just get into the books I read this month;

4.5 stars;

Lodestar by Shannon Messenger

I’m so glad to be back in this world. I finished neverseen at the end of August after taking a short break from this series. I missed these characters and even though these books are long they are so fast paced, in my opinion and really well written. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 6.

Senlin ascends by Josiah Bancroft

I picked this one up for the read long of the series, hosted by holly @ . I had been wanting to read it for a while and am so glad that I finally did because I loved it! Tom senlin is a really interesting character. I liked his determination and growth throughout the novel as he searches for Marya (his wife). I loved the Tower itself, it was an extremely intriguing concept. Every level felt like stepping into a new world. No one was as they seemed or could be trusted and not knowing which characters could be trusted added to the tension and speed in which I was turning pages. I can’t wait for senlins adventure to continue in book 2.

Rivers of london by Ben Aaronovich

I haven’t had much luck with urban fantasies in the past, there aren’t many that I have liked but this one, was soo good!! Peter, is a very likeable main character with just the right amount of wit, I enjoy his perspective. Nightingale was an interesting character. The magic is very interesting and I like the different types of magic, different types of creatures, diversity and the way in which this story is told and the way the world is explained! I really liked the ending and am excited to continue!

The winter of the witch by Katherine Arden

I’m really happy with how this ended. I think it was a great conclusion to the trilogy. I loved following vasya on her journey and kinda wish it wasn’t over. I’m going to miss these characters. This is now one of my new favourite trilogies!

Velocity weapon by Megan O’ Keefe

Velocity weapon is a series I had heard many great things about. I wanted to start it ages ago. But when I realised that the series was nearly completed, I decided to wait for them all to be out, so I could read them close together. The world that has been created here is so vast and interesting. The characters were well written and I really liked them, especially Bero, I love when space ships/ AIs have perspectives in books and he is just adorable! The romance was very “angsty” and I’m intrigued to see where the romance goes in book 2 as well as a second romance that I would like to see more of. If sci-fi is a genre you love and talking AIs, give this one a go! I loved it!

Before they are hanged by Joe Abercrombie

It feels so good to be back in this world. It was so good to see these characters grow, I was already a fan of logen and glokta but jezal is growing on me, as is west so far. There was a bit more of a plot in this one but the characters were still my favourite part of the book. Joe Abercrombie has been praised for his character work and I can understand why. I May reread this trilogy once I have finished it because so far it is definitely something that I can reread multiple times.

4 stars;

The painted dragon by Katherine Woodfine

The painted dragon is the third book in the Sinclair mystery series. I am falling in love with this middle grade mystery series. Sophie, Lil and their friends are amazing characters and I love following them on their adventures and watching them solve the mysteries. Im so ready for book 4, but also sad that it is the last one in this series. However, there is a second series🥳.

Once wicked by Cindy Stark

This was a reread for me. One of the prompts for magical Readathon is to read a mystery or thriller. I didn’t really have any mysteries or thrillers on my tbr for this month as I am saving them for October so, I went with something quick, short and something that I loved. It’s such a fun and enjoyable read and I loved it as much as I did the first time reading it.

The emperors blades by Brian Staveley

I’ve heard so many great things about this series and they were all completely true. I cannot believe I hadn’t heard of this book before, or that more people aren’t talking about it. Valin was a great character, but I really liked that we got multi perspectives. This world was really interesting and I can’t wait to find out more. A brilliant start to a series!

Lovely war by Julie Berry

At first the narrative of the story told by the gods was a little confusing and jarring. . However, as I continued reading it became less jarring and more fascinating. I loved the relationship between Hazel and James, Colette and Aubrey and the friendships especially between Aubrey and Hazel. There was a bit of a lull towards the middle half of the book, but once I got past that point, it picked up again. There was a third relationship in here that I really liked too, but I’m not going to say who because of spoilers. I really liked this one!

Britt Marie was here by Fredrik Backman

I have loved every Backman book that I have read and this one was no exception. Britt Marie was a really interesting character, she had such a kind heart, but people didn’t see that on the outside and I loved seeing her grow as a person and realise her dreams.

Willow Moss and the lost day by Dominique Valente

Willow was a really interesting character, she didn’t think very much of herself or her abilities in the beginning and it was nice seeing her grow as a character and grow to love her magic. I loved all the creatures that were in this book and the mystery surrounding the missing day. This was a really great start to a middle grade series, one of the best I have read this year and I’m intrigued to see where it goes next.

3.5 stars;

A court of honey and ash by Shannon Meyer

I haven’t read a really good fae book in a while and I was so excited when I found this one on KU, it sounded like exactly what I wanted and it didn’t disappoint. I really liked the tension between the main character and the love interest, the magic and court intrigue. There were a few cliches, but I think that is to be expected in these books. I’m looking forward to book 2.

DNF;

Autonomous by Annalee Newitz

I DNF’d this book. I didn’t really connect with the main character. The science element of the story was really interesting, which was the only thing that kept me reading really. I had heard, prior to going into this book (from peoples reviews and stuff), that the lgbt+ representation wasn’t very good, I decided to still give it a go, but I can totally see exactly what they were on about!

So, that is everything that I read in the month of September. What did you read this month? Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

Thank you so much for reading!

hollylovesbooks 2:33 pm on 12th October 2021

September Book Haul

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today I am going to be doing my September book haul. I bought a total of 9 books. I’m really excited about all the books I have bought this month!

So, Let’s get into the books I bought this month and see if anyone notices a theme going on here…

Anxious people by Fredrik Backman

I don’t have many Backman books left to read now, which is really sad. I still have bear town but I need to be in the right frame of mind for that one I think. I’m sure many already know what this one is about, it only released recently, but I have heard soo many people talking about it. I prefer the American cover for this one, does anyone agree or do you prefer this one? Anyway, I’m excited to get to this!

Hood by Stephen lawhead

Hood is a trilogy about, you guessed it, Robin Hood, but it’s a reimagined story from what I have heard. I don’t hear a lot of people talking about this one, but I am really intrigued. I’m hoping to get to this one soon!

Lakesedge by Lyndall Clipstone

I love this cover! This is one of those times were I can’t decide if I like the US or UK cover better, they are both so pretty! Anyway, this is the first of my Halloweeny/ spooky books. The hardcover released in August I think, but I preordered the paperback which comes out October 12th (at least in the UK). It says for fans of a curse so dark and lonely and uprooted, two books which I really enjoyed. It’s seems to be a sort of gothic romance tale of mystery and magic from what I can gather, I don’t want to know too much, but that sounds so good!

Vita Nostra by Mariana Dyachenko

Another beautiful cover! I’ve been wanting to get to this one for a while and thought what better time than spooky season. I have watched reviews on this book and they say to go into it not knowing to much so, I can’t tell you much about it, except that people say it’s unlike anything they have read and is a very particular taste. I’m so excited!

The lights of Prague by Nicole Jarvis

Another pretty cover! If the bats aren’t a giveaway, this one is about vampire like creatures😂. I haven’t read any books set in Prague, I don’t think and I’m really excited for this one. If the setting isn’t enough to grab your attention, how about a vampire and a vampire Hunter reluctantly working together to uncover a conspiracy…. are you intrigued yet, I know I am! I am really hyped for this one!

The man who died twice by Richard Osman

This is book 2 in the Thursday murder club series… I’m not sure how many books there are going to be, but I hope it is a few, I really love this series so far! I’m so excited to see were the story will go from here and what murder these characters will get embroiled into this time.

Josh and hazels guide to not dating by Christina Lauren

I have read one book by Christina Lauren before (my favourite half night stand) and gave it 3 stars. It wasn’t my favourite romance , but I did like the writing. I have heard great things about this one, so I’m going to give it a go. I also own the unhoneymooners on kindle and will only likely read this if I like Josh and Hazel.

The wolf by Leo Carew

This book is one that is really intriguing to me. I have heard many great things about it and it is one of Liene from Lienes library (on YouTube) favourite books of all time! I can’t wait to get to this one soon!

Kindle:

The winter of the witch by Katherine Arden

This is the final book in the winternight trilogy. I’m hoping to finish this in September, as of writing this post, I haven’t started it yet and it’s very nearly the end of the month😬. I’m not too worried if I have to carry it over to October, but that tbr is considerably large already lol.

The ember blade by Chris Wooding

There was a limited time deal for the ember blade on kindle, so I managed to get this book for 99p! I’ve heard great things about this book, I want to read this really soon, but is there any sign of book 2. I know it isn’t that long since this first book released, but I would like to have some idea of when book 2 is coming out. I’m not sure whether to wait or not. If anyone has read this, does it end on a cliffhanger?

So, they are all the books that I bought in September. Did anyone notice the theme? I don’t think it was difficult😂 This is also a spoiler alert for a lot of the books that I will be reading in October lol. Are any of these on your October tbr? If not, what other books are on your October tbr, I would love to know, especially spooky ones, I’d love to add them to my tbr! Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

Thank you so much for reading!

hollylovesbooks 2:08 pm on 4th October 2021

October TBR!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today I am doing my October tbr. Quite a few of the books on this tbr are spooky books, but I do have some romance/ contemporary and a few fantasy because I wouldn’t be me if there wasn’t at least a few fantasy books on my tbr😂. I also wouldn’t be me if it wasn’t a somewhat long tbr lol. There are 26 books in this tbr… I think I keep adding more lol and will likely add even more than that because I keep finding new books I want to read on other peoples tbrs🤦‍♀️😂.

Anyway, let’s just get into the books I will be read this month, this may take a while;

Physical:

The lights of Prague by Nicole Jarvis

I am so excited to get to this book in October! It’s the perfect atmospheric and spooky read for this season. I have never read anything set in Prague! The is a story of vampires and hunters solving a mystery and I cannot wait!!

Lakesedge by Lyndall Clipstone

Lakesedge released in August I think, but the paperback doesn’t come out until 15th October, so I have this one on preorder and I’m so hyped for its arrival! This cover screams eerie and spooky to me, do you agree? I don’t know too much about this one, but I believe it features dark magic and that is pretty much all I need to know.

Vita nostra by Marina Dyachenko

Another spooky mystery book!😁 If I recall correctly this has some sort of school setting? I’ve heard it’s one of those ones were people love it or hate it and that it is a very different read that leaves people confused and in awe… I’m intrigued! Lol

Good girl, bad blood by Holly Jackson

Now that this series is completed, I’m ready to binge the final two books in the series. I remember most of what happened in book 1, but if I don’t, I will likely have to either reread AGGGTM or find spoiler summaries. I’m excited to carry on though, I really loved book 1 so I hope the rest of the series is just as good!

Arm of the sphinx by Josiah Bancroft

This is the second book in the books of Babel series. Im reading this for a readalong, but I have fallen behind. I’m supposed to be on book 3 in October, ready for the fourth and final book which comes out in November. My reading in September was all over the place and I just didn’t have time to even start it. I’m hoping I can finish this in the first half of the month so that I can start book 3 later on in the month.

The incredible exploding man by Dave Hutchinson

This is one I haven’t heard much about at all. But, it’s really short and the synopsis sounds interesting so I thought I would give it a go since I own it.

Tokyo, ever after by Emiko Jean

This one, however, is one I have heard a lot about. Soo many people love this book. I’m a huge fan of the princess diaries and it has been compared to that many times, once I read that I had to pick up a copy.

Into the crooked place by Alexandra Christo

I have had this one on my shelf since it’s release and still haven’t gotten around to reading it. I have heard mixed things which, I think put me off a bit but I want to read it for myself and see what I think. I liked to kill a kingdom by this author so, hopefully I will like this one too.

Serpent and dove by Shelby Mahurin

Soooo😂 I have been trying to finish this book now for over a year. I started reading it as a buddy read with Leah but I stopped reading because I didn’t have time to continue. I tried to finish it again but I was reading other things, so I gave up for a while. I’m finally going to try and read it again, I might try the audiobook as well, see if that helps.

The midnight peacock by Katherine Woodfine

This is the fourth book in the Sinclair mystery series. This has quickly become one of my favourite middle grade series. I love the characters in the series and the mysteries! I can’t believe this is the final book, but thankfully, there is a companion series.

The last argument of kings by Joe Abercrombie

I can’t believe this is the final book in this trilogy. I know there are still 7 books left in the first law universe, but still. I’m both excited and terrified to read how this trilogy is going to end!

Moons over soho by Ben Aaronovich

Moons over soho is the second book in the Peter grant series. I loved rivers of London, which I read last month. I love Peter and nightingale and all the other characters so far and I’m intrigued to see where this series is going to go.

Kindle/ audio:

If we were villains by M. L. Rio

I have some really great things about this book. I don’t know too much about this one, but I know it features a group of students learning Shakespeare or studying Shakespeare? I don’t want to know too much about it, I want to go in b out knowing much.

Empire of the vampire by Jay Kristoff

I think everyone has heard of this book, it is really hyped and that makes me really nervous to read it. The amount of reviews I have read/watched of people really liking this book have made it very hyped in my mind. I’m going to try and go in with, not low expectations, but lower expectations if that makes sense. I want to like it, but hype always leads to disappoint with me.

Air awakens by Elise Nova

Elise Kova is an author I have heard a lot about. However, this is a book I have heard many mixed things about. The synopsis is really intriguing to me though and I want to give it a go and see what I think. If anyone has a great Elise Kova recommendation that I can read after this one let me know!

The grace of kings by Ken Liu

🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️ was I meant to finish this one in September? Yes, yes I was! If I don’t finish this in October then I’m going to put it down for a while and pick it back up. It’s not like I’m not enjoying it either it’s just I started reading it earlier on in the year and got about 12% of the way through. Then I tried to continue on in September and couldn’t remember what had happened so, I had to go back and reread the first 12%… I managed to read a tiny bit more though, I’m now at 15%🥳🤣. Slow and steady wind the race…😁

All Rhodes lead here by Mariana Zanata

Mariana Zanata is another author I have heard great things about. All Rhodes lead here is Zanatas new book and it sounds really good! I have read many reviews and they all say it’s good, so I’m excited to get to this one.

Nightfall by Shannon Messenger

This is the 6th book in the keeper of the lost cities series. I’m loving this series so far, it’s one of my favourite middle grade series of all time! I’m so ready to continue on with this one.

The black prism by Brent Weeks

The black prism is a book I have heard so many mixed things about. I have read some reviews that say it is amazing, some that say it’s ok and some that say it’s not very good at all. Mostly though, I have read good one and I really want to see for myself what I think about this series.

The goose girl by Shannon Hale

Sooo many people have read this series when they were younger. I personally, didn’t even know it existed until about 4 ish years ago🙈. I’m excited to get to this one.

The magic thief by Sarah Prineas

I have read a book by Sarah Prineas before and was slightly disappointed by it. I really like the sound of the synopsis of this series and I really want to give it a go. I’m hoping it was the story of the other book and not the writing that I didn’t like so much.

I love you so mochi by Sarah Kuhn

October isn’t exactly a romancey vine month, but as well as being in a spooky mood, I’m also in a romance mood and decided to put a couple that I really wanted to read on this tbr. This one is quite short and sounds really cute, I can’t wait.

A Cuban girls guide to tea and tomorrow by Lauren Taylor Namey

The second romance on my tbr, this one sounds really fluffy and it’s also really short. So many people love this book and I can’t wait to read it this month.

The vagrant by Peter Newman

This was on my September tbr, the tbr that I failed very badly😂. I have heard great things about this series and Peter Newman and I can’t wait to dive in.

Girl, boy sea by Chris Vick

Girl. Boy. Sea is our middle grade marvels book club pick for the month. I was surprised to find that this book is on kindle unlimited. I had never heard of this book before, so I’m really intrigued!

The ember blade by Chris Wooding

This looks like such a classic fantasy cover and I love it! Anyway, this is another book I have Hearst good things about , I think it features some kind of quest which, I’m here for and I can’t wait.

I never make things easy on myself do I? I don’t even want to know how many pages are on this tbr.

So, that is everything that I plan on reading in October. Have you got a spooky tbr? Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

Thank you so much for reading!

hollylovesbooks 1:52 pm on 1st October 2021

Chronicles of Iona: Exile by Paula de Fougerolles- Blog Tour!

Hi Everyone,

How are you?

Today’s post is my review of chronicles of Iona:Exile for the blog tour hosted by @The_WriteReads (thank you so much Dave) and a thank you to the author and the publisher.

Synopsis;

“Exile”, the first novel in the historical fiction series “The Chronicles of Iona”, is the story of the two men who laid the foundations of the Scottish nation, an Irish monk, Saint Columba, and a Scottish warlord, Aedan mac Gabran. They were a real-life sixth-century Merlin and King Arthur and their story has never been told.

It is 563 A.D. The world has been plunged into chaos by the collapse of the Roman Empire and barbarian invasions: civilization holds on by a thread. Columba, a powerful abbot and prince of Ireland, is exiled for a violent act to the pagan colony of Dalriada on the west coast of Scotland. Awaiting him there is Aedan mac Gabran, the down-and-out second son of the colony’s previous king, slain by the bloodthirsty Picts.

Together, this unlikely pair travels the breadth of a lawless, divided realm, each in search of his own kind of unity. Their path is fraught with blood feuds, lost love, sacrifice, miracles, dark gods, and monsters. Beset on all sides, their only hope is to become allies—and to forge a daring alliance with the pagan Picts.

How Columba overcame exile and a crisis of faith to found the famous monastery of Iona (one of the greatest centres of learning in Dark Age Europe) and, from it, the Celtic Church in the British Isles; and how Aedan avenged his father’s death and became, against all odds, the progenitor of Scottish kings and the greatest warlord of his age, begins here.

For both, what begins as a personal imperative becomes a series of events that lead to the foundation of Iona and the kingdom of Scotland—events that literally change the world.

Historically authentic yet told with a bold fictional sweep, “The Chronicles of Iona: Exile” plunges the reader into the world of sixth-century Scotland and Ireland, the veritable Dark Ages—a world on the brink of either collapse or creation, poised between myth and history.

My thoughts;

I was drawn to this book as soon as I read the synopsis and I was not disappointed! Just the time period alone was enough to draw me in as I hadn’t read anything set during this time, in fact I will say right now that there are not enough books set during this time period!

Aedan and and Saint Columba were two exceptional characters to follow, in my opinion, they made the story for me and even the characters that I didn’t like, were well done and really stood out in my mind.

The world building was also great. Yes, there were a few chapters that I had to trudge through, but it payed off in the end because I understood the world so well. I also liked the way that the author described the setting, I felt like I was there with these characters in this world.

Overall, the culmination of all these things, the setting, the characters, battle scenes, adventure, brilliant intricately woven history and Fougerolles storytelling, made this book something everyone should have on their radar, especially all of those who are history buffs. I highly recommend this book, an excellent start to a series.

4.5 stars! 🌟

Author bio:

Paula de Fougerolles has a doctorate from the Department of Anglo-Saxon, Norse and Celtic, University of Cambridge, and has taught and published in the field. She has lived and traveled extensively throughout Scotland and Ireland, including a prestigious year-long Thomas J. Watson Fellowship in which she criss-crossed Europe in search of the physical remains of the so-called Dark Ages–research which ultimately led to this award-winning historical fiction series.

Media links;

Purchase links;

Don’t forget to check out the other reviews and blogs on the tour!

hollylovesbooks 2:27 pm on 24th September 2021

August Wrap Up!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today I am doing my August wrap up. I read a total of 21 books this month! It’s been a while since I have read that many books in a month, I think.

I don’t have anything else to say so let’s just get into the books I read this month;

4.5 stars;

Ship of destiny by Robin Hobb

I think I have found a new favourite series! This was such a great conclusion to the trilogy. I definitely liked it a lot more than farseer trilogy as a whole. There are some characters in here that I love and some I hate, I’m not sure whether I like them more or whether I like fitz more🤔. As many people who know me know, I’m usually more of a character driven reader but the liveships and the world within the liveship traders really added to my enjoyment of this trilogy. Im going to take a little break from Hobb because these books take a lot out of you lol but, I can’t wait to get back into fitz’ world and start the tawny man trilogy!

Neverseen by Shannon Messenger

It’s really good to be back in this world again! I have missed all of these characters and there banter. Sophie is such an amazing protagonist and it’s nice to see her grow more and more throughout each book as she discovers the secrets of her past. I’m loving this series so far, I can’t wait to continue with this series!

Promise of blood by Brian McClellan

This is my introduction to flintlock fantasy and I really enjoyed it! I can definitely see the comparisons to Sharpe. The magic in this book was really fascinating to me, it’s very unique although, maybe to those who have read a lot of flintlock fantasy, it’s not so unique, I don’t know lol. Either way, I loved it. The high stakes and politics were also very well done but the characters were my favourite. I can’t wait to continue on with the series!

The meeting point by Olivia Lara

The synopsis for this one really caught my eye so I had to read it! The characters and setting were definitely my two favourite things about this book. I did like the romance as well, but the setting itself was so beautiful and I really want to visit Carmel-On-sea someday! This is such a fun and funny book and worth the read! If you want to read my full review click

4 stars;

The jewelled moth by Katherine Woodfine

This is the second book in the Sinclairs mystery series. I haven’t been so addicted to a middle grade murder mystery series in a long time. No middle grade series has me on the edge of my seat and although some things are predictable, I just love these characters and these mysteries. I thoroughly enjoyed this second instalment and I cannot wait to continue on with the series.

Fireborn by Aisling Fowler

The synopsis of this book immediately intrigued me and I’m happy to say I wasn’t disappointed. I love middle grades and this one didn’t disappoint me. I really liked twelve and the other characters, as well as the world. I really hope there is a book 2! Click here to see my full review.

Well met by Jen Deluca

I managed to get a copy of this for 99p on kindle a couple of months ago. I was a little apprehensive given all the hype that was/is surrounding this book. However, that worry was for nothing as I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I loved the characters, the romance, the Renaissance fair setting and will definitely be reading the next books in the series!

Garagantis by Thomas Taylor

This is the second book in the eerie-on-sea series. I loved book one which I read in June I think which, was also a book club pick.. I really love this series so far, it’s such a great middle grade series. It was nice to be back in this world with these characters again and I cannot wait to read book 3. Which, I think comes out next month!!

The lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Locke and Jean have a great friendship. Locke is a great character I can see why it is compared to six of crows Locke does remind me a bit of kaz brekker. The back and forth in between scenes that go back to past events are a bit jarring at first but, personally didn’t bother me after a while.

Brightstorm by Vashti Hardy

I have had this book on my shelves for about 6 months now and was so glad when it got picked as our book club pick for August! The ships were so fascinating to me and I really like the characters. This book series is a middle grade adventure that I cannot wait to continue!

The demon world by Sally Green

I liked that the stakes were raised in this one but the pacing felt a bit off. I still want to read the next book, still loved these characters and really liked the ending. I just didn’t like it as much as the first one. Hopefully book 3 is better!

Seven husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

As usual, it was written beautifully. Monique was an interesting character although we didn’t really see her a lot. Evelyn is interesting, she knew what she wanted and she went out and got it and I liked that, as a character though, she made decisions that… irritated me to say the least lol. Taylor Jenkins Reid is a brilliant story teller and the revelation at the end shocked me! Some things really annoyed me but I did enjoy this book.

3.5 stars;

The Spanish love deception by Elena Armas

This was a really steamy romance read. Which, was exactly what I was looking for at the time. I know these types of reads aren’t for everyone but if you like a good steamy romance every now and then that’s fun as well as funny, I recommend checking this one out. It’s just a good time and there is nothing wrong with that. Personally, I really enjoyed it.

The deal of a lifetime by Fredrik Backman

I have an obsession with Backmans books at the moment, as well as his writing. Whilst this one was really short (65 pages), I still enjoyed it for what it was. It’s definitely not the best book by him that I have read but, I think that partly has to do with the length. His writing in this is still fantastic. I’m slowly running out of Backman books to read😬.

The unexpected inlander by Kellyn Thompson

This book was part of BBNYA and unfortunately it didn’t make it to round 2. I really wanted to read it though, so I bought a new copy for £1.66 From amazon which, is really cheap. Would I read the next book in this series? I would say yes, I’m intrigued enough to want to know what happens next.

The train to impossible places by P. G. Bell

Noly and I decided to buddy read this book together and it was so good! The setting of the train really captured my imagination, it felt really magical to me and was my favourite part of the book. I really liked the main character also as well as Wilmot and a few others, I’m intrigued to see what adventures they get up to next.

Wonderscape by Jennifer bell

I love books featuring any form of portal or time travel and this one didn’t let me down. The characters were really interesting, there are three main characters but, it is told from one perspective (Arthur), but I still felt like I knew the other characters well and I liked seeing their friendship develop over the course of the book. Really solid middle grade!

A beast so beautiful by Carlyle LaBuschagne

For the most part, I liked this book. I was slightly disappointed that i didn’t love it as much as I had hoped I would but, it was still a good book and I’m intrigued to see where it will go in book 2. The characters were definitely he most compelling part of the story, in my opinion but the world itself was different to a lot of things I have read before and captured my attention as well. There were a few plot twists that caught me off guard, in a good way and also some moments that had me really angry lol. I think this is the first book in a series, so I’m interested to see where this goes.

Thorn by Intisar Khanani

This book really surprised me. I was expecting to like it, but not as much as I did. The magic was interesting as well as the world. The main character had excellent development as the book progressed and the ending left me wanting answers. I’m intrigued to see what happens in book 2!

Things my son needs to know about the world by Fredrik Backman

Another amazing Backman book. I don’t have kids so I do not pretend to understand what it’s like, but I still loved this book. My mum read sections of it and laughed out loud so I have it on good authority that’s it’s funny and accurate😂. Some parts reminded me of my brother when he was little lol. I really enjoyed this one.

Thirteen treasures by Michelle Harrison

I read this with Noly as a buddy read. Which really added to my enjoyment of this book. The mystery throughout this book is definitely what had me turning the pages, even though there were some things that annoyed me. I also liked all the creatures that appeared throughout this book. I’m not sure whether I will get to the next book in the series, but I am intrigued to see what happens next.

So, that is everything that I read in the month of August. Did you discover any new favourites in August? Let me know in the comments below and let’s chat!

Thank you so much for reading!

hollylovesbooks 2:02 pm on 18th September 2021

August Book Haul!

Hi everone,

How are you?

We are all going to ignore that this is late😂🙈.

Today I am doing my August book haul! This month I bought a total of 7 books which is actually very good for me.

Without further ado, let’s get into the books I acquired in the month of August!

Physical books;

These hollow vows by Lexi Ryan

This cover is so pretty😍. The synopsis for this one sounds like the classic fantasy cliche, but I still want to read it😂. I’m hoping there is something new that is present in this book, a plot twist or something different, but if not, I will probably still like it because I just enjoy these fantasy books.

Rivers of london by Ben Aaronovich

I bought the box set of the first six books in this series and I’m so excited to get to them. The set includes rivers of london, moons over soho, whispers underground, broken homes, foxglove summer and the hanging tree. I have heard many people say such great thing about this book including Ellie, I know she really loves this series so far.

Tokyo ever after by Emiko Jean

I’ve heard great things about this book. It’s a romance that loosely based off of the princess diaries… or it reminds people of the princess diaries, I can’t remember which, but either way that’s all I need to know, I’m excited to read it!

The maleficent seven by Cameron Johnston

This is another book with a really pretty cover😍. I’ve read some really positive reviews, obviously there isn’t too many reviews yet as it is a fairly new release, but from what I have seen they are positive. I’m really excited for this one, it’s one of my most anticipated for this year and I can’t wait to get to it.

Nine of swords by Brooklyn Quintana

Another really pretty cover😍. This book has very little reviews and they were a bit mixed, so I was a little worried about picking this up. But the synopsis intrigues me and I really wanted to read it so I decided to just pick up a copy.

Arm of the Sphinx by Josiah Bancroft

This is the second book in the books of Babel series. I was reading book 1 for the book club hosted by @Hollyheartsbooks. I didn’t manage to finish it in August though, so I’m planning on finishing it early in September so that I can started arm of the Sphinx as well.

Kindle;

The vagrant by Peter Newman

This is the only kindle book that I bought this month. I’m a really intrigued by this one, I’ve heard great things, but also just really liked the sound of the synopsis.

So, that is all the books that I bought in the month of August. Have you read any of these, what did did you think? Let me know in the comments down below and let’s chat!

Thank you so much for reading!

hollylovesbooks 4:21 pm on 12th September 2021

Secret legacy byCarissa Andrews- Spotlight Tour!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today’s post is also a spotlight tour for secret legacy by . Thank you so much to the author, publisher and of course, Dave!

This year, the Book Bloggers’ Novel of the Year Award (BBNYA) is celebrating the 65 books that made it into Round Two with a mini spotlight blitz tour for each title. BBNYA is a yearly competition where book bloggers from all over the world read and score books written by indie authors, ending with 10 finalists and one overall winner.

If you want some more information about BBNYA, check out the BBNYA Website https://www.bbnya.com/ or take a peek over on Twitter @BBNYA_Official. BBNYA is brought to you in association with the @Foliosociety (if you love beautiful books, you NEED to check out their website!) and the book blogger support group @The_WriteReads.

Publisher: Author Revolution LLC

Length: 300 Pages

Date Published: 15th September 2020

Synopsis;

A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES meets LOCKE & KEY in this completed new adult series!
I always wanted supernatural powers.

The day I got my acceptance letter from the Windhaven Academy, I knew my life was about to change – BIG TIME. I expected to find out I could phase through walls or control people with my mind. But what I became was far more complicated than I ever imagined.

You see, I come from a long line of witches with incredible power that spans centuries.

I just didn’t know it.

But unleashing my powers is just the beginning. There are forces bigger than anything I ever imagined… and they’re coming for me.

Sure, Windhaven Academy is a school for supernaturals.

But what I am will provoke an ancient curse that will pit me against fate.

And now, no one is safe.

Author Bio:

“An author emerges from the depths of Minnesotan waters. Sci-fi/Fantasy is my pen of choice.”

Carissa Andrews is an internationally bestselling author from central Minnesota who writes a combination of science fiction, fantasy, paranormal romance, supernatural thriller, and dystopia. Her plans for 2021 include the continuation of the Diana Hawthorne Psychic Thrillers.

She keeps sane by chilling with her husband and five kids, playing with art in its various forms, seeking out mysteries, and being an occasional meditation and reiki badass.

Purchase links:

Media links;

Don’t forget to check out the other tour posts!

Thank you so much for reading!

hollylovesbooks 2:31 pm on 12th September 2021

Shadow of a Dead God by Patrick Samphire- Spotlight Tour!

Hi everyone,

How are you?

Today’s post is a spotlight tour for shadow of a dead God by Patrick Samphire. Thank you so much to the author, publisher and of course, Dave!

Publisher: Five Fathoms Press

Length: 462 Pages

Date Published: May 27, 2020

Synopsis;

It was only supposed to be one little job – a simple curse-breaking for Mennik Thorn to pay back a favor to his oldest friend. But then it all blew up in his face. Now he’s been framed for a murder he didn’t commit.

So how is a second-rate mage, broke, traumatized, and with a habit of annoying the wrong people, supposed to prove his innocence when everyone believes he’s guilty?

Mennik has no choice if he wants to get out of this: he is going to have to throw himself into the corrupt world of the city’s high mages, a world he fled years ago. Faced by supernatural beasts, the mage-killing Ash Guard, and a ruthless, unknown adversary, it’s going to take every trick Mennik can summon just to keep him and his friend alive.

But a new, dark power is rising in Agatos, and all that stands in its way is one damaged mage…

Author bio;

Patrick Samphire is the author of the adult fantasy novel SHADOW OF A DEAD GOD, as well as the middle grade novels SECRETS OF THE DRAGON TOMB and THE EMPEROR OF MARS. He has also published around twenty short stories and novellas.

Patrick has been writing stories since he was fourteen years old and thought it would be a good way of avoiding having to sit through English lessons at school. He was absolutely convinced that he would be famous by the time he was eighteen, but sadly, even infamy has eluded him.

He lives in Wales, surrounded by mountains, with his wife, their sons, and their cat.

When he’s not writing, he designs websites and ebooks.

Purchase links;

Media links;

Don’t forget to check out the other tour posts!

Thank you so much for reading!