bookish_selkie's Reviews (2.14k)

Blood Magic is a bingeable and action-packed fantasy. When vampire hunter Fleur finds that her rival has been turned into a vampire, she decides to investigate the mystery of vampirism. Pagan Alexandria crafts a well-paced new adult story. It took me a little bit to be fully invested, but at a certain point I was completely hooked. The cliffhanger ending definitely took me by surprise! Readers who love vampires, rivals to lovers, and dark academia will enjoy Blood Magic. 

Thank you to Pagan Alexandria for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Vivienne Farrow is a selective mute who uses sign language to communicate. When her stepfather hires Thomas Walsh to interpret (and spy) on her, Vivienne is resolved to drive him away. Vivienne’s secret is that when she speaks aloud, a horrible fate happens to the person whose ear she whispers into. As Thomas and Vivienne get to know each other, they form a twisted bond. How far will Vivienne go to free herself of the thing that lurks in her reflection? 

I Am Made of Death was impossible to put down! This book is spooky, romantic, and has such an interesting take on possession. Kelly Andrew writes descriptions that fill you with both horror and awe at the beauty. Vivienne and Thomas have fantastic chemistry! I love how they were tightly bonded and yet also kept the other completely on their toes. I love Kelly Andrew’s work and enjoyed how characters from previous books made cameos. I can't wait to read what she writes next! 

I Am Made of Death is perfect for readers seeking a blend of horror and romance, bodyguard romance, and vivid writing. 

Thank you so much to Kelly Andrew, Scholastic Press, and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Àn’yīng’s world shattered nine years ago when a demon killed her father and drank half of her mother’s soul. She must now provide for herself and her sister, while trying to keep their village safe. When she is given the chance to compete for a pill of immortality, which would restore her mother, Àn’yīng knows she will do whatever it takes. Along the way, she connects with Yù’chén and she forms a reluctant alliance with her rival to survive in the realm of the immortals. As they battle demons, both of them hold secrets that would shatter their alliance. How far can Àn’yīng trust Yù’chén and still win the Trials?  

I absolutely loved The Scorpion and the Night Blossom! Amélie Wen Zhao is one of my favorite authors and I was so excited to begin this new series. The Scorpion and the Night Blossom is filled with lush details, action-packed scenes, and lovable characters. Àn’yīng’s dedication to her family and her fierce fighting abilities make her a compelling heroine. I adored the romance between Àn’yīng and Yù’chén! Every time they were on the page together, I couldn’t put the book down! The realm of the immortals was fascinating and I enjoyed the immersive sensory details. 

Readers who love beautiful romance, vivid world-building, and intricate fantasy will love this book. I can’t wait to read the next book to find out what happens next! 

Thank you so much to Amélie Wen Zhao, Delacorte Press, and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

The Warbler is a dreamy and creative contemporary fantasy. Elisa has never stayed anywhere longer than ten months, or she will start to become a tree. Why does this curse haunt the women in her family? As Elisa flees anyplace that starts to feel like a home, she tries to retrace the steps of her mother and discover why their family became cursed. 

The Warbler was very difficult to put down once it hooked me. Sarah Beth Durst writes beautifully about grief, feeling stuck, and the idea of fate. Elisa’s curse is unique and compelling to watch as Elisa attempts to unravel the secret behind it. Sarah Beth Durst creates a cozy small town atmosphere, though it’s clearly a town with secrets. I enjoyed the flashback chapters as the reason behind the curse is discovered. The Warbler is the type of book that will have you thinking about it long after the last page. 

Readers who enjoy books about familial curses, the bond between mother and daughter, and creative contemporary fantasy will enjoy The Warbler. 

Thank you so much to Sarah Beth Durst, Lake Union Publishing, and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

R.M. Virtues writes a complex and spicy remix of Goldilocks. Once I understood the world-building and previous history between the characters, I really enjoyed this! RM Virtues writes steamy romance and a heist gone wrong very well. I’m excited to read the rest of the stories from the Black Rose auction!

Thank you to R.M. Virtues, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review