The Switch is a bittersweet and charming slice-of-life story. Ever since Leena’s younger sister passed away from cancer, a heavy shadow of grief has hung over her family. Leena and her grandmother Eileen are both struggling to find satisfaction in their days. When Leena has a panic attack at work, she is forced to take time off. Eileen is looking for love in her tiny village, to no avail. Leena suggests a switch- Eileen will come and stay in her apartment and Leena will travel to the village. Both have preconceived notions and misconceptions about what it will be like to switch, which are beautifully unraveled throughout. As both women search for romance, deal with grief, and make friends, they learn that switching lives is much more complicated than it seems.

I was lucky enough to receive an audiobook of this book! The story is read by two voice actresses, one for Leena and Eileen each. Both were very accomplished and pleasant to listen to. I absolutely loved the voice of Eileen, she perfectly captured and expressed Eileen’s personality. One thing that did not work for me is when an effect was used to simulate being on a phone call. This sounded scratchy to me and was a little difficult to listen to. Overall, the audiobook production was well-done and I enjoyed listening to it very much.

This adventure into the lives of the Cotton women and their journey was delightful. I preferred Eileen’s chapters, finding her wisdom and personality to be very heartwarming. While both women are dealing with lingering feelings of grief and sadness, Leena is younger and has less experience dealing with such things. This is understandable, but I almost wish I could go into the book and give her advice! The supporting characters of the villagers and Leena’s friends were an absolute joy to meet!! I felt as if I had traveled to a small village in England. There’s plenty of wit, jokes, and underlying lessons about grief. This story is not a romance, instead it is the story of two women coming to terms with grief and choosing to live their lives with as much meaning and happiness as possible. It was a very pleasant experience to listen to The Switch. The Switch releases August 18, 2020. Thank you to Beth O’Leary, Macmillan Audio, and Netgalley for a free audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

The Silvered Serpents is the stunning sequel to the Gilded Wolves! Changed by the events of their last adventure, all of the characters now struggle to carry on as they once did. When the group is forced to work together again, nothing is the same as it once was. Unbeknownst to all, this mission is more than it seems. It’s a joy to re-visit the group as they tackle one last job. The Silvered Serpents is spellbinding, a story with a darker shift in tone compared to book one. This makes sense since the characters have lost friends, broken hearts, and possess compelling secrets that weigh heavily on them.

The descriptions are beautiful and absolutely transported me to another world. The story is gripping, with intricate details, plenty of laughs, and new characters with hidden motivations. The writing will make you laugh aloud and simultaneously marvel at the way certain sentences are composed like a beautiful symphony. I love the fantastic representation and portrayal of complex characters. Laila remains my favorite! I couldn’t put this down and already can’t wait for book three after that ending!! The Silvered Serpents releases September 22, 2020. Thank you to Roshani Chokshi, Wednesday Books, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Midnight Circus is a spooky and charming collection of short stories by Jane Yolen. Jane Yolen is such an incredible and prolific writer, especially when it comes to tales that we assume we already know. Drawing upon familiar elements in fantasy, Yolen presents a collection of short stories that are unique and encompassing. The collection is well-balanced, featuring themes of fantasy and horror. There is something in this collection for everyone, from selkies, shapeshifters, red caps, and vampires.

I love stories that relate to mythological sea creatures, so my favorite stories were about the selkies and mermaids. I did find myself completely engrossed by the story of legendary explorer Robert Scott. The story questions- what if Scott had a secret reason for adventuring to Antarctica? With poems and additional information provided about the creation process, the collection is very satisfying. I would highly recommend it for anyone who is a fan of short stories or fantasy. The Midnight Circus releases October 1, 2020. Thank you to Jane Yolen, Tachyon Publications, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Tavia is a siren in modern-day Portland, constantly trying to conceal her powers. She lives with Effie, her best friend and adopted sister. Tavia tries to remain inconspicuous, seeking answers about her powers. Effie performs as a mermaid at the local Renaissance Faire, hoping for additional clarity about her past and family. As Effie struggles with strange changes happening to her and Tavia worries about accidentally revealing herself as a siren- the girls experience the perils of high school (bullying, romance, mean girls).

This was so good!! I loved how mythology was creatively intertwined with social issues such as misogynoir. A Song Below Water was excellent with lots of important social commentary, realistic prose, and a strong bond of sisterhood. I was kept guessing until the very end as Effie and Tavia work together to unravel the mysteries and secrets they face.

My favorite part was the powerful bond of sisterhood between Tavia and Effie. It was so refreshing to watch them always be there for each other. No matter the obstacle, they stayed united against all turmoil. Readers looking for stories about social commentary, mythological powers, and an unbreakable sisterhood should absolutely check out this book. A Song Below Water releases June 2, 2020! Thank you to Bethany C. Morrow, Tor Teen, and Netgalley for providing me with a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.