I read 8 books for January!

My favorite books this month are:

Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater

⭐️Overall rating: 4.5/5

👍Pros : Great writing, a main character you can root for, regency era with fantastical elements flavor, main character that’s autistic coded that’s done right, and just a general vibe.

🤔Cons: No spice, the Cinderella vibes is a bit overdone, sad that the next books in the series won’t be about the main couple, also last paragraph in the book had me confused if she became whole or not, as much as I love Elias he’s also like everyone other grump love interest fantasy character out there.

Still I love this book. If you’re a fan of Emily Wilde Encyclopedia of Faries you’ll love this book.

Hester by Laurie Lico Albanese

⭐️Overall rating: 4.5/5:

👍Pros : Creative prequel reimagine of a beloved classic novel, Isobel being the inspiration for Nathaniel’s Hester was explored beautifully, the writing was decadent, the book explored slavery and women right’s issue well without being preachy, interesting witchy dynamics that’s unique and fresh. The ending was also so good. Bittersweet and brilliant.

🤔Cons: Not enough of Nathaniel perspective explored, every few chapters are flashbacks of the characters’ ancestors during the witch trials and I think those could have been given more depth, there were few consequences for some despicable characters, as much as I thought the “magic” was unique in the book it was rather vague and I wanted more.

Still I highly recommend if you’re a fan of The Scarlet Letter and wanted Hester to be given more of a voice in the classic.

Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole

⭐️Overall rating: 5/5

👍Pros : It’s what I always wanted in Romantasy, slow burn, earned romance and not at all love at first sight, an interesting magic system, main character is not a Mary Sue and she might be a bit ignorant but that’s because of her circumstances but she makes up for it, toxic but entertaining court politics, it has an undercurrent of mystery in the book that makes you eager to find out more, and the budding romance is good it creates a lot of tension which is always appreciated.

🤔Cons: Though not as bad it still has a similar Romantasy formula as all the books in this genre.

Those were my favorite three books of the month! What were yours? And have you read these books before?

#januaryreads #lemon8bookclub #romantasy #bookreviewer #favoritebooks

Brooklyn
2025/1/31 Edited to

... Read moreIn the world of literature, January often serves as a fresh start for readers to delve into enticing narratives. If you're looking for book suggestions that resonate with current themes and timeless narratives, consider exploring titles that blend classic elements with modern storytelling. For fantasy lovers, 'Half a Soul' by Olivia Atwater presents a delightful mix of Regency-era charm and fantasy. It stands out for its representation of characters, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, providing inclusive narratives that are becoming increasingly important in the literary landscape. Laurie Lico Albanese's 'Hester' could be particularly engaging for readers interested in reimagining classic tales. This novel not only pays homage to Hawthorne’s 'The Scarlet Letter' but offers a fresh perspective on its themes of feminism and societal critique, amplified through its unique historical lens. On the other hand, 'Spark of the Everflame' by Penn Cole captures the essence of Romantasy, focusing on character development and intricate world-building. It caters to readers who appreciate a slower romance intertwined with elements of mystery and court politics, providing both escapism and intrigue. These books not only cater to individual preferences but also invite discussions on broader societal issues, making them perfect for book clubs. Exploring such works can enrich the reading experience, allowing readers to engage with pressing themes while enjoying the craft of storytelling.

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