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Lakewood is a dark and haunting look at the treatment and perceived value of Black lives in America. I feel that at this point, the comparison of all Black horror media to 'Get Out' feels a little tired, however in this case the comparison is apt. The slow burning, sinister threats that are built up throughout the b00k give similar feelings of unseen dread just out of the corner of your eye, making this a different kind of horror novel -- this book isn't about the monster in the shadows or the killer hiding under the bed.

And, of course, there is real life precedent that blurs the lines of fiction and makes Lakewood an even more unsettling and horrifying read.

If you like clean-cut stories that give you all the answers, Lakewood is probably not the book for you. I really enjoyed the author's writing style, especially as it evolved throughout the book, but I can definitely see it not suiting every reader. Lakewood is an unflinching look at the exploitation of minority and disadvantaged lives in America in a short, but powerful novel.

CW: medical experimentation, some body horror

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Finally! The Song of Achilles has been on my radar since it came out, and I've finally managed to read it!

There's not much I can say about this book that hasn't already been said -- it's hugely popular for a reason. I loved Miller's writing and the way she brought these two men to life. She does a great job of showing the more human side of a man who's legacy has been drenched in blood -- Patroclus' love for Achilles is beautiful, despite the man's many (many) flaws. I really loved the way she managed to make this story feel modern, but stayed within the realms of Greek mythology and the mindsets of the time (meaning, you just want to shake sense into basically everyone).

The Song of Achilles didn't destroy me in the way it seems to have ruined many people, but it's a beautiful bit of writing and I would definitely recommend it. It has given me a real hankering for more Greek mythology retellings!

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Okay, now that I've read Miller's two novels I can safely say that Galatea is my favourite thing she's written. It's a short but powerful retelling of Pygmalion centering around Galatea, the statue who comes to life. A fiercely feminist tale, this short story really shook me up -- I stared at the ceiling for about an hour after finishing it.

Top tip: you can get this story on Scribd!

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I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review is spoiler-free.

I really enjoyed Age of Ash! It has strong Joe Abercrombie vibes (minus the banter), and the world building was so wonderful. The city of Kithamar is as much a character in this story as any of the people we follow - I feel like I know my way through the streets because it just came to life as I was reading.

The plot slowed down a little in the middle, but picked up and the book came to an exciting and satisfying ending. The one thing that I felt made Age of Ash a good book rather than a great one was my disconnect with the characters. They were well written and had interesting motivations - I can’t tell you why they didn’t quite click with me, but there was something holding me back from loving them.

I’d definitely recommend this one to fans of adult fantasy, especially low fantasy. I’m curious to see what will happen in the next one!

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A strange and dreamy novella, Flyaway is a story of secrets and myths in a small town in Australia.

Jennings’ writing is absolutely beautiful - she has a way of crafting her words into a hazy, buzzing summer’s day in your mind. Combined with quiet horror that would make Shirley Jackson proud and bloody, frightening town legends, this book is a gorgeous, creepy tale dripping in tension. I really enjoyed this and would highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Southern Gothic-style horror or dark fairy tales.

After seeing the new Batman film, I’ve decided to dive back into reading the comics. Year One is a great place to start - for obvious reasons, I think. We not only see Bruce Wayne’s First months in the suit, but also everyone’s favourite cop Jim Gordon come to town.

I love the realistic, gritty feel of Year One. My only criticism is that the font is hard to read in a few places.

If you enjoyed The Batman, give this one a go (and then presumably pick up Year Two, which is on my list of things to read soon!).

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I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review is spoiler-free.

Every fan of the Daevabad trilogy needs to get their hands on this collection of stories. Filling in a few gaps before, during, and after the series takes place, River of Silver is a gorgeous read that instantly reminds you exactly why the Daevabad trilogy is one of the best that modern fantasy has to offer.

One of Chakraborty's many talents is the fact that she can make you swiftly fall in love with her characters and sympathise with her villains. River of Silver helps flesh out some of the primary and secondary characters from the series, helping you to understand the actions and motivations that drive the plot of the trilogy.

I'd recommend picking this up after you finish the trilogy (and inevitably want more), as it will contain spoilers.