INFLUENCE/DEINFLUENCE MY TBR

Okay, fellow book lovers, I'm sure many of you can relate to the overwhelming joy (and slight terror!) of a towering physical TBR pile. Mine seems to multiply overnight, and honestly, making a decision on what to dive into next feels like a Herculean task! That's why I'm reaching out to this amazing community – I genuinely need your help to influence or de-influence my TBR for these specific titles I've pulled out. First up is 'Powerless' by Lauren Roberts. I've seen this one everywhere, with its striking dark cover featuring purple flowers and a skeletal design. It looks like a high-stakes fantasy romance, but I'm curious: does it live up to the hype? Is the world-building immersive, or does the romance overshadow the plot? And for those who enjoy a bit of 'spice,' how does it compare to other popular fantasy reads? I'm hoping for some brutal honesty here! Next, a classic I feel I should have read by now: 'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller. This one is a #1 New York Times Bestseller and an Orange Prize winner, depicting the epic tale of Achilles and Patroclus. I've heard it's incredibly emotional and beautifully written. But I'm a bit nervous about historical fiction sometimes – does it feel accessible, even if you're not deeply familiar with Greek mythology? And prepare me: how much will it break my heart on a scale of 1 to 10? Then there's 'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig. The premise of exploring different lives you could have lived is so intriguing and thought-provoking. It's a #1 New York Times Bestseller, too! I'm hoping for a read that makes me reflect on life choices and happiness. For those who've journeyed with Nora Seed, did it leave you feeling hopeful or melancholic? Is it the kind of book you'd press into everyone's hands, or is it more of a quiet, personal reflection? Finally, we have 'The Serpent and the Wings of Night' by Carissa Broadbent, which is Book 1 of The Nightborn Duet. The cover, with its serpent and blue roses, hints at a thrilling, perhaps dark, fantasy world. I'm a big fan of series starters that hook you immediately. Does this one deliver on world-building and a compelling magic system? How is the romantic element – slow burn, instant connection, or something else entirely? And importantly, does it end on a cliffhanger that will make me immediately regret not having Book 2 ready? My physical TBR is bursting, and I really want to make sure I pick books that will be truly captivating. So please, spill all the tea! Don't just say 'it was good' or 'don't read it' – tell me *why*. What aspects did you love? What fell flat? Every detailed opinion helps me weigh up whether to move these books to the top of my reading list or (gasp!) maybe even consider letting them off the hook for now. Your collective wisdom is my only hope!