Disclaimer: thank you netgalley and Random House for supplying me with a copy of this book.
Close Reach is a dark, chilling thriller about increasinglyDisclaimer: thank you netgalley and Random House for supplying me with a copy of this book.
Close Reach is a dark, chilling thriller about increasingly desperate encounters on the cold waters of Antarctica. I sailed... ahem... through this book in one night.! Moore has created a page turner that is equally gritty and gory, yet the couple's inner strength is this story's true driving force.
I have to admit that this book was nearly a did-not-finish for me, and I did skim the last sections to find out Kelly's fate. I know a lot of readers, with stronger stomachs than I, that will appreciate this stomach churning (and I'm not talking sea sickness!) read.
2.5 stars
Merged review:
Disclaimer: thank you netgalley and Random House for supplying me with a copy of this book.
Close Reach is a dark, chilling thriller about increasingly desperate encounters on the cold waters of Antarctica. I sailed... ahem... through this book in one night.! Moore has created a page turner that is equally gritty and gory, yet the couple's inner strength is this story's true driving force.
I have to admit that this book was nearly a did-not-finish for me, and I did skim the last sections to find out Kelly's fate. I know a lot of readers, with stronger stomachs than I, that will appreciate this stomach churning (and I'm not talking sea sickness!) read.
**spoiler alert** ‘Fathomfolk’ featured excellent world building and a fantastical, water-based magic system. It also raised enticing hints at what ha**spoiler alert** ‘Fathomfolk’ featured excellent world building and a fantastical, water-based magic system. It also raised enticing hints at what has happened to Earth as we know it. The author has obviously done their homework on mythology; borrowing from many tales and creatures of lore, while adding her own unique flair. Marked down to 3.5 from 4 for the pull-the-rug-from-under-you ending that I really didn’t like. To be fair, it was foreshadowed a number of times, but given events shortly before this, I’d dismissed the warning signs.
Disclaimer: thank you to netgalley, Eliza Chan and the Little Brown Book Group for a free arc in return for an honest review....more
‘One Little Word’ beautifully captures the story of two friends, who see their playground disagreement transform into a disruptive monster. This pictu‘One Little Word’ beautifully captures the story of two friends, who see their playground disagreement transform into a disruptive monster. This picture book has colourful, engaging illustrations and also features POC as its main characters. The emotions are cleverly brought to life (and are written about in regards to their physical effects on the characters too).
With its unique approach to conflict resolution, it will definitely be a new addition to the PSHE shelf in the school library.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy in return for my honest review....more
Starter Villain is one of my favourite books of the year!
Ever dreamt of carving your initials on the moon? Hatching plans of espionage in your secret,Starter Villain is one of my favourite books of the year!
Ever dreamt of carving your initials on the moon? Hatching plans of espionage in your secret, volcanic lair? Commanding a network of sentient, cat super-spies? Then ‘Starter Villain’ will allow you to live out those nefarious (depending on how you look at it, of course) dreams vicariously; through the adventures of Charlie, our unassuming, but hilarious protagonist.
I loved everything about this book. The ‘big reveal’ felt a little cold to me but yet it made sense. However, one of the book’s many highlights, the love of a person and their pet, made up for it. I could read book upon book set in this world, but alas, this felt very much like a standalone.
Disclaimer: I received a free arc of this book in return for an honest review. Thank you to John Scalzi, Netgalley and Pan Macmillan, Tor!...more
The story follows Val, the leader, as she connects with her childhood friends, with the aim to reboot the television show ‘Mister Magic’. It’s immediaThe story follows Val, the leader, as she connects with her childhood friends, with the aim to reboot the television show ‘Mister Magic’. It’s immediately evident that all is not as it seems. Val doesn’t have any memories of her life before the ranch where her father has kept her hidden, nor of the adult friends who appear to reunite with her. Surely she’d remember being the star of a hit children’s television show? However, it’s not only Val who has trouble remembering the programme; enticing fictional extracts, in the form of Reddit-like threads, blog posts and reviews, show that the rest of the world can’t quite agree on what the actual programme or titular Mister Magic was like. Neither is there any evidence of the show at all; any posts referring to it are swiftly removed and there is not a single video to be found.
This sense of unease is gradually increased throughout, as her friends become increasingly unsure of their own interpretation of events. The eerie house they begin to record the podcast at, and its mercurial, shadowy host, also become increasingly ominous.
The multiple point of view really works for this novel, unerringly sharing the horror dawning in the characters’ thoughts. The novel’s weak point, in my mind, might be conspicuously missing sixth ‘friend’ and the impact they have in the latter part. Admittedly, while the middle pacing slows, I whipped through this book in under one weekend, desperate to know the next secret to be uncloaked.
‘Mister Magic’ is a nostalgia-inducing, eerie tale, which weaves reality and memory, creating a must-read horror.
Disclaimer: I received this arc from NetGalley for free in return for an honest review. Thank you NetGalley and publisher Random House UK....more
I read this book in one evening - I just really wanted to know what happened next! It’s a slow burn, easy-to-follow romance with some interesting littI read this book in one evening - I just really wanted to know what happened next! It’s a slow burn, easy-to-follow romance with some interesting little tweaks to more traditional mythological stereotypes. I really enjoyed reading this story from two differing points of view and, given its ending, I’ll be looking to pick up the sequel.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Daphne Press in return for an honest review....more
I’ve had Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s Mexican Gothic in my tbr list for awhile now, so when I noticed this intriguing book was by them, I jumped at the chanI’ve had Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s Mexican Gothic in my tbr list for awhile now, so when I noticed this intriguing book was by them, I jumped at the chance to read it. Silver Nitrate blends a slow, creeping horror with historical elements (I’m a sucker for these!) and a fascinating friendship. Tristan and Monserrat are two of the most developed characters I’ve read in ages and their familiar, yet at times, intense relationship is a breath of fresh air. I loved all the silver screen references that sent me off down a rabbit hole of research and the author notes at the end only added to my enjoyment of the story. A fabulous tale!
Disclaimer: I received this ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
Finn’s Little Fibs is another beautiful edition toTom Percival’s Big Bright Bright Feelings series. As is always the case with these, this heartfelt sFinn’s Little Fibs is another beautiful edition toTom Percival’s Big Bright Bright Feelings series. As is always the case with these, this heartfelt story is accompanied by colourful, attractive illustrations. As Finn finds fib after fib popping out of his mouth, he feels funny in his tummy. The lies themselves are cleverly depicted by vibrant flying blobs that really get in the way of him enjoying his holiday. The author does a fantastic job of describing the emotions and physical sensations associated with guilt. This is a must-buy for any library.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this arc in return for an honest review. Thank you NetGalley & Bloomsbury!...more
‘Seven powerful mages want to make the world a better place. We're going to kill them first.’
This book has The Malevolent Seven has a heck of a blurb:
‘Seven powerful mages want to make the world a better place. We're going to kill them first.’
This book has so many of the ingredients that make up an addictive magical adventure. As its name suggests, there are definite elements of a western meets dark fantasy. Band of misfits with complimentary and deadly skills? Check. A healthy heaping of humour? Check. A deadly mission with a showdown they almost certainly won’t survive? Triple check.
So why haven’t I given the Seven 5 stars? Maybe it’s the mood I was in when I started reading or maybe the esoteric planes just didn’t align, as at first I found the ‘heroes’ just a little *too* anti-hero. I also wasn’t hugely enamoured with how the female characters were written overall. However, I’m glad I persevered a little more, as the second half of this book was hugely enjoyable and I really warmed to Cade, our main character. I’d love to read a sequel and find out what’s in store for them next!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this arc from NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
After loving Her Royal Majesty’s Covern SO much, I was worried the sequel wouldn’t live up to the high standards its predecessor had set. There was ceAfter loving Her Royal Majesty’s Covern SO much, I was worried the sequel wouldn’t live up to the high standards its predecessor had set. There was certainly no need! The Shadow Cabinet continues to expand on the rich world of the HMRC, filling its pages with great character development. Despite my fear I would miss a certain character’s POV in favour of another - if you know, you know - I was really pleasantly surprised! I am already desperate to read the next instalment! Who do I have to hex to get a copy ASAP?!
Disclaimer: I received a free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
The Kitchen Pantry Scientist Ecology for Kids is a fantastic edition to any school library, and indeed, any child’s bookshelves! It is filled with beaThe Kitchen Pantry Scientist Ecology for Kids is a fantastic edition to any school library, and indeed, any child’s bookshelves! It is filled with beautifully presented experiments that are not only interesting, but are both accessible resource and instruction-wise. Importantly, they are achievable with a little adult support, (depending on the young scientist - as they grow increasingly confident with the aid of this book, they may well be the one supporting you!). However, some experiments may need to be adapted according to any time constraints. It’ll be well worth your time to explore and learn alongside your reader. Each experiment is supported by great explanations. I can see this title helping to forge many happy memories.
In addition to this, the experiments are accompanied by well-written autobiographies of 25 diverse scientists. Hopefully many young ecologists can see something of themselves in these clever individuals. This book is sure to delight and inspire all ages!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in retrurn for an honest review. Thank you!...more
Shanghai Immortal is a book full of superb world-building, fun trials, fascinating supporting characters and a refreshing setting in which to explore Shanghai Immortal is a book full of superb world-building, fun trials, fascinating supporting characters and a refreshing setting in which to explore Chinese mythology - the nineteen thirties.
For me this book was a tale of two parts. The character development shown by our antagonist, Ling, means that - thankfully - her constant and repetitive cursing gave way to introspection, leading to an abandonment of that particular knee-jerk reaction. She is a very different person for the last half of the book. It was interesting to have such a rebellious, outspoken character, but I preferred when she taunted and teased the other characters - playfully and otherwise - compared to the grating swearing.
There was just the right amount of romance to suit, although I couldn’t quite reconcile the disgust felt towards one particular character with the sudden warmth shown seemingly pages later. As others have commented, it was nice to see a male love interest with a more quiet strength, who let Ling grow into the increasingly strong figure she becomes.
I loved the historical aspects and these were woven expertly within the story. The author made great use of numerous realms within mythology to highlight interesting social constructs, landscapes and historical events of the time. I enjoyed reading about this era from Ling’s point of view, where she becomes as new to it as we are.
It will be so interesting to see where - literally and figuratively Ling goes next and I will be looking forward to the next instalment.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review. Thank you!...more
The Company is a darkly, gothic tale set against the emerging controversy of arsenic being used in wallpapers. Its key themes of power, duty and griefThe Company is a darkly, gothic tale set against the emerging controversy of arsenic being used in wallpapers. Its key themes of power, duty and grief are presented via the voice of a young daughter, battling to care for her family after upheaval in their business. Lucy’s lived a sheltered, privileged life, yet possesses a quiet strength having faced numerous, unimaginable obstacles. As yet another tragedy strikes, gentleman Julian Rivers appears in the guise of her family’s latest saviour. At first Lucy’s relieved, however, it doesn’t take long before she questions whether their motivations align. Both her naive mother and increasingly fragile brother are quickly beguiled, but are they as be-spelled as the hallucinogenic arsenic infused wallpapers they’ve built their legacy on? With skeletons of her own, can Lucy herself be trusted?...more
I thought this book provided a fantastic approach about how to tackle children’s anxiety over scary figures. The analogy of chewing gum where first thI thought this book provided a fantastic approach about how to tackle children’s anxiety over scary figures. The analogy of chewing gum where first the flavour (ie intrusive thought) is intense but then can be reduced by chewing (exposure) is really clever. There are also step by step instructions on what this could look like in very manageable stages, which are also presented in accessible language. The facts about chewing gum will definitely appeal to some older children and allows for mood lightening. The advice for adults is both succinct and cleverly written. This is a very well thought out book!
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review....more
I have long been fascinated by the legendary figure Baba Yaga. She is arguably, more than any other fairytale character, presented in such a multitudeI have long been fascinated by the legendary figure Baba Yaga. She is arguably, more than any other fairytale character, presented in such a multitude of ways. True, most commonly we know her a the large nosed witch who lives deep in the forest in the bone-adorned, chicken-footed hut. A crone who swoops eerily around the Russian countryside in her large pestle and mortar. However, the more one comes across her, the more ambiguous one finds her. Although in her fairytale, Vasilisa the Fair has think fast to solve her given tasks, Baba Yaga does come to her aid after all. Read about Baba Yaga further and there are more tales still of her being a representative of justice, swinging a warrior’s sword, being more goddess than witch and a staunch defender of women. It is very fitting then that she be the focus of her own feminist retelling. I found this new version of Yaga just as interesting, seeing what themes the author chose to keep, reinterpret or or to cast away.
The Witch and the Tsar pits this fascinating, multifaceted character against Ivan the Terrible and the supernatural forces that surround him. I really enjoyed how other Slavic mythological figures were drawn into the conflict and want to learn more of them too. These elements were skilfully interwoven against a backdrop of political unrest, economic turmoil and war. Sprinkled amongst dense world-building, were historical events and persons which really brought the story to life. This book is wild, fierce and magical: not unlike Baba Yaga herself.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in return for my honest review....more
I LOVE the series ‘Little People, Big Dreams’. It covers a wide variety of inspiring individuals in such an appealing and accessible way. As more and I LOVE the series ‘Little People, Big Dreams’. It covers a wide variety of inspiring individuals in such an appealing and accessible way. As more and more sets are added to it, some of the people featured are less well known to me. Corazon Aquino is one such person.
I loved reading about this amazing woman. Like other books in ‘Little People, Big Dreams’ the narrative is accompanied by gorgeously, colourful illustrations. As events are simplified to accommodate a large range of readers, there are much welcomed facts and photos on a timeline at the back of the book with a brief suggestion of books for further reading.
I’ll definitely be reading more about this determined woman who, along with her husband did so much to free her country of corruption. I’m so glad that this role model has been given the spotlight by the duo of Sanchez Vegara and Hsu and I can’t wait to read more about the complexities of her journey.
I always make sure the school library is stocked with this series and will be purchasing a copy of this to add to my shelves!
DISCLAIMER: Thank you to netgalley and Frances Lincoln supplying me with an ARC in return for an honest review....more
The Constant Rabbit is another witty and quirky read from Fforde. A gem lettuce of a book you have to unwrap and inhale right there in the supermarketThe Constant Rabbit is another witty and quirky read from Fforde. A gem lettuce of a book you have to unwrap and inhale right there in the supermarket aisle.
On an alternate earth where, decades ago, an Anthropomorphising Event transformed a number of rabbits (and other animals, as we find out later) into humanoid versions of themselves. The actual cause of the event is hypothesised by the characters as being satirical. (Fforde’s fabulous way of saying just go with the flow!)
We experience this world much later through the eyes of single father, Peter, who works in one of the governmental agencies monitoring the new members of society. Except they’re not, not exactly... After debate, the UK government legally defined rabbits as not human and not deserving of equal rights (but of course deserving of taxes). Soon, the rabbits face a forced relocation to a MegaWarren: away from the rest of society but still able to provide a source of labour.
Now, this should be ringing more than a few bells. Fforde’s work, although with plenty of light and humorous moments, provides much commentary on how certain elements always seek to create a them and an us, and how and what this looks like. In the world of The Constant Rabbit, the absurd aggression wrapped in faux manners among the English villagers is a world many readers might recognise.
Peter himself is a low level ‘spotter’ - identifying rabbits who are not who they claim to be, knowing full what may and has awaited them after he does his job. His Senior Group Leader is a deliciously sinister character called Mr Ffoxe who routinely (and legally) murders rabbits. Of course Peter justifies this by reasoning he is a small cog in the machine and doesn’t take part in any violence himself. It’s his ‘repairing’ of his moral self we follow. How far along this journey of enlightenment Peter burrows or understands is debatable. It might also ask the same questions of the reader.
To paraphrase (a lot, but you’ll want to read it for yourself) Constance Rabbit disagrees with the idea it is in a human’s nature to destroy and hate, and that we actually understand how we should behave but we prevaricate with pettiness and prejudices rather than just getting to the crux of things. The truth of things.
Repairing ourselves and our world.
4.5 stars
A brilliant, thoughtful and cutting book but was there really not another way?
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton in exchange for an honest review....more
The Murder Game is a fantastically compelling read with an interesting cast of characters and interesting hook. Lucas’ invitation to his guests to pla The Murder Game is a fantastically compelling read with an interesting cast of characters and interesting hook. Lucas’ invitation to his guests to play his elaborate game seems somewhat inappropriate. What would they have to celebrate?
The story begins with one of our main characters (and through whose eyes we experience the majority of the book) and her husband on the road. Their relationship is fraught and she’s clearly reluctant to attend the game. Why can’t Lucas simply be refused? The book soon sends us back in time to a year before, where we gradually discover why no one can say no to their host, before driving forward to its gripping conclusion.
I must have guessed at and re-guessed the ending’s events a hundred times. I was right about some big clues but changed my mind quite a few times so I’m glad I was kept guessing as to what everyone did and didn’t know (or do) - the sign of a great read! I’m going to have to go and find the first in the series now!
Disclaimer: I received an arc in return for an honest response. Thank you Wildfire....more
Disclaimer: I received this arc in return for an honest review.
Red and Black is a fun, compelling read that I devoured in two satisfying sittings. FitDisclaimer: I received this arc in return for an honest review.
Red and Black is a fun, compelling read that I devoured in two satisfying sittings. Fittingly, for a book set in the world of superheroes and villains, it begins with a crime being committed, as an unlucky citizen falls prey to the criminal element of Bailey City. It's the perfect way to present Miss Red and Black; her abilities, appearance, experience, moral code and disposition. Ka-pow! The author tackles introducing the heroine as confidently as her hero herself. From there, layers of information are unveiled as if by her everyday persona Dawn; with caution and a love of literature.
Red and Black's world of superheroes is unique. She herself is a 'costume' and can transform into a hero that is physically different and imbued with enhanced strength and healing powers. This all comes with a nifty magical disguise, allowing her a greater confidence. Alex aka Faultline, however is 'empowered' with the gift of seeing the weaknesses in others - but can he turn that gift inwards? When he dons his uniform he suppresses his true self in order to carry out his job. The characters are threaded with depth and flaws, which make you invest in their journey.
There were a couple of threads of the story that I wanted to read more about - especially after *that* revelation - that I felt was not really addressed further. However I do trust the author to explore this in her sequel, which I found out today she's already writing! I can't wait to find out more!
In conclusion, if you're looking for a, light, enjoyable read full of superhero cape-rs (see what I did there?), action, and plenty of heart pick up a copy of Red and Black....more
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