natashaleighton_'s reviews
976 reviews

Where Sleeping Girls Lie by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

dark emotional tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Insightful, gripping and completely unputdownable! Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé’s Where Sleeping Girls Lie is a mystery-laden powerhouse of a novel, with a dark academia style premise that packs quite an emotional punch.

Tackling themes of grief, rape culture and toxic masculinity, Àbíké-Íyímídé’s emotionally nuanced (and character driven) prose deftly explores the rather disturbing reality of institutional privilege and the trauma inflicted when those privileges—and the power connected to it, is abused.

Told in third person, we follow new girl, Sade Hussein, who has no idea what to expect at the prestigious, Alfred Nobel Academy—the elite and respected boarding school she’s just enrolled at. But, one things for certain—she never expected her roommate to go missing on her first night. Or for rumours to point the blame in her direction, leading to interest from the most popular clique in school-The Unholy Trinity.

Balancing new found friendship with the popular kids and a gruelling school schedule, Sade still can’t shake the wrongness to the school staff’s indifference to a missing student.

So, taking things into her own hands, she teams up with missing girl Elizabeth’s bestie, Baz, to find out what really happened. However, uncovering the truth is harder than it first appears, as the halls (and it’s students) are steeped in lies and secrets …

I absolutely loved this! The attention of detail was phenomenal and the intricately connected clues that propel the narrative were cleverly placed, keeping the suspense fabulously high.

Though I confess, it was the multilayered and depth filled characters and the way in which they navigate their pain and trauma that captivated me the most. Particularly protagonist Sade who,though guarded at first glance, was an incredibly endearing character with a slowly unfurling backstory of loss, grief and resilience that had me rooting for her every step of her journey.

I also adored the found family-esque dynamics and friendship that grows between her and pink haired cinnamon roll, Baz. His adorably chaotic nature really brought a lightheartedness to plot’s intensity and allowed us to catch a glimpse at what Sadie’s future may entail—with a network of love and support that will help heal the inner turmoil she has held onto for soo long.

Persephone and her character development was fascinating for very similar reasons, and I enjoyed the slow-burn friendship-turned romance that we experience between her and Sade, as they get to know (and trust) one another.

The ending wasn’t as straight forward and satisfying as I would’ve liked, but was a fairly realistic portrayal of how similar (real world) situations have been dealt with. The focus on many of the female characters and their individual paths to healing was a nice touch— underlining the importance of mental health services and support for survivors of sexual assault.

Overall, a powerfully poignant, Mean Girls style murder mystery (with queer and Muslim rep) that would work brilliantly as a book club pick, or to kick start discussions around power & privilege, racial discrimination and rape culture with teen/ young adult readers. Just be sure to check the TWs beforehand.

Also a massive thank you to Fritha at Usborne for the amazing proof.

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The Bad Ones by Melissa Albert

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dark mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

House of Hollow meets Pretty Little Liars in this deliciously eerie and hauntingly addictive, Supernatural YA Thriller. Which skilfully blends the complex growing pains of adolescence, toxic friendships and R. L. Stine-worthy playground legends into a lush, hauntingly addictive tale of goddesses and revenge that I thoroughly devoured!

“Goddess, Goddess, count to five, in the morning, who’s alive?”

On a single winter’s night, seventeen year old Nora’s life is turned upside down when her estranged best friend, Becca, mysteriously disappears. Prompting Nora to take up her own investigation and find out what happened. For Becca wasn’t the only person in their small town to suddenly vanish—three other residents are missing too.

Uncovering coded messages believed to be from Becca, Nora delves into their shared past and the town’s infamous legend about the Goddess. And the childhood game they used to play, that may hold a clue as to Becca’s (and the other’s) whereabouts…

Satisfyingly sinister and creepy in the best of ways, this is the fifth book by Melissa Albert that I’ve read and, it’s definitely my favourite soo far!

The prose was quintessentially Albert; atmospheric, suspenseful and soo utterly compelling that I honestly despaired at having to put it down.

Each of our POV characters (Becca,Nora-and later on Rita) were vividly depicted and well developed, with unique voices that not only worked for their respective personalities, but also felt genuine enough to be real teenagers. However, it was the emotionally bereft Nora, struggling without the guidance of her (take charge) best friend that I found most compelling.

Delving into her intense and complicated friendship with Becca, and the ways in which childhood bonds can shift and develop over time was incredibly fascinating—especially when juxtaposed with the relationship dynamics of other characters we encounter.

James, a classmate of Becca’s (and the love interest to Nora’s role as Heroine) was another character I really enjoyed getting to know. Not as in depth as our protagonists, his budding friendship/relationship was a guiding light for Nora at such a dark and turbulent time. And his easy, almost laidback demeanour worked perfectly in easing Nora into social situations she’s usually relied on Becca for.

The piece de resistance of course, was the lore and supernatural elements that surround the Goddess, the goddess game (which was kinda reminiscent of the Light As A Feather game), and the mystery of the Goddess’ origins. Propelling our narrative into several plot twisty and magnificently well timed revelations that I was thoroughly in awe of.

The ending was really enjoyable if not, completely satisfying in explaining all the supernatural aspects. But, this does give me hope that we’ll see more stories set in this world, or involving shadowy god-like beings who may (or may not) have their own playground rhymes and slumber party games.

Overall, an intoxicatingly immersive read that gothic-esque fantasy or small town paranormal lovers and fans of Melissa Albert are bound to enjoy. Just be sure to check the TWs first.

Also, a huge thank you to Nina Douglas and Penguin UK for the proof

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To Cage a God by Elizabeth May

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adventurous dark tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

An exquisitely thrilling Fantasy Romance that’s set in a lush, yet ruthless (Imperial Russian-esque) world full of god wielding rebels, tyrannical rulers and high stakes political tension that I couldn’t get enough of!

As someone quite new to Elizabeth May’s work (this being the first of her books I’ve ever read) I was really impressed with the deeply emotional, character-driven narrative and adored the intriguing magic system (Dragon Gods magically removed from their own realm and forced into the bodies of humans, so said humans can harness their powers)—though I was hoping to delve a little more into the lore surrounding each the dragon-esque gods.

The second chance romance between Sera and her estranged husband, Vitaly more than made up for it, however, thanks to the slow-burn, and swoon-worthy intensity of their enemies to lovers style dynamics. Galina’s romance with the Villainous Empress’s daughter, Princess Vasilisa, was also incredibly delicious as well. But, it was the bond of sisterhood and trust both Galina and Sera place in one another that really captivated me.

I loved exploring their shared experiences and the emotional journey that sees them survive such unrelenting cruelty at the hands of the Empire’s ruling classes—as well as their own rebel leader mother, who had sought to weaponise them for her own gain (before her capture and execution four years prior.)

I do admit, I was a little surprised by just how many POVs we got to explore (I had assumed it was gonna be a dual POV story between sisters Galina and Sera.) But actually, really enjoyed exploring all five of our POV characters, delving into their motivations, secrets, struggles and choice which lead each of them to that spectacularly satisfying (and rather pacy) conclusion.

Overall, a magic and romance filled romp teeming with gods, complex family dynamics and endearing, morally grey characters that’s perfect for both Romantasy lovers and fans of Leigh Bardugo’s Shadow & Bone series. Though I do suggest checking TWs beforehand.

Also, a huge thank you to Daphne Press and Blackcrow PR for the Proof

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A Tempest of Tea by Hafsah Faizal

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adventurous mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

From the bestselling author of We Hunt The Flame, comes a new and intoxicatingly addictive YA Fantasy that completely stole my heart.

Masterfully blending the criminal swagger of Peaky Blinders and whirlwind action of Six of Crows, A Tempest of Tea is an insatiably lush and emotionally depth-filled tale of vampires, found family and vengeance —that heist obsessed fantasy lovers really don’t want miss!

Set in the same world as We Hunt The Flame (in the city of White Roaring) we follow criminal mastermind Arthie Casimir, proprietor of a popular Tea House which,by night transforms into an illegal speakeasy catering to the city’s vampires.

But when her beloved business is threatened, Arthie has no choice but to strike a deal with an enemy —by putting together a misfit group of criminals to infiltrate the vampire elites’ most secure organisation and steal a book. But not everyone in her crew is on her side, and there are many who would kill for the knowledge contained within the book’s pages.

I loved every second of this heady and atmospherically compelling tale, the prose was breathtakingly beautiful and the dialogue both witty and thoroughly entertaining. Hafsah Faisal masterfully explores themes of power, corruption, colonialism, class and family with such thought provoking vividness that I did find myself tearing up more than once whilst reading—especially during Jin and Arthie’s backstory reveals.

The complexity and depth of our POV characters (Arthie,Jin & Flick) was phenomenally well done too and the emotional growth we see from all of them was incredible.

Arthie, our mauve-haired Queen of chaos (and keeper of secrets) was definitely my favourite. Her ability to keep her cool, even in the most dire of situations was impressive. But it’s her decade long commitment to avenging her family and homeland (by cleverly sowing chaos in the colonising Ettenia’s upper eschelons—like a gun-toting Robin Hood) that made me love her the most. Her enterprising schemes and skill at extracting secrets (as well as keeping tons of her own) had me on the edge of my seat, eager to see what she’d do next. Though, I do admit Arthie’s charismatic second, Jin (and Laithe’s unnamed feline companion) were also firm faves.

There is some romance, which I found swoon-worthy in its slow burn intensity (which includes a bit of a love triangle) and the jaw-droppingly suspenseful twists leading up to THAT ending already has me excited to see how things develop in the sequel—which I’m desperate to get my hands on.

As high octane and pacy as this was, you’ll definitely want to savour every moment, as little there’s quite a few hints/clues that you may miss if you’re not paying close enough attention.

If you love heists, drama filled historical fantasy or vampires, then you simply must add this to your TBRs—it’s fabulous! Just be sure to check TWs beforehand

Also, a huge thank you to BookBreak and PanMacmillan for the proof.

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The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown

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adventurous dark mysterious fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

A Starless Sea meets Ink Blood Sister Scribe, in this gorgeously crafted and unputdownable debut that, (though a little dark at times) stole my heart with its immersive and irresistibly addictive storytelling.

Spanning multiple POVs (and quite a few timelines) I was blown away by how detailed and intricately woven every aspect seemed to be—but I was especially impressed with the development of the characters!

Multifaceted and full of emotion, their complex personal journeys and interconnected backstories (which touch upon themes of grief, loss, loneliness and pain) captured the essence of the human condition (in all its raw and chaotically flawed glory) to perfection. I was on the edge of my seat and emotionally invested every step of the way—especially when it came to our introverted protagonist, Cassie; whose endearing journey of grief, love and tender (found family-esque) friendship really resonated with me.

I should probably mention the pacing was a little slow to start, but it didn’t take long to pick up speed, which is when things really started to get interesting. And the plot twists! I was amazed by how perfectly timed and practically never ending they were, which (if you’re anything like me) will definitely make for a nail bitingly intense reading experience.

Overall, this was a well plotted and exquisitely action packed fantasy that’s perfect for fans of magical realism, time travelling books and Erin Morgenstern- style whimsy. Just be sure to check the TWs beforehand.

Also a huge thank you to Izzie over at Transworld/Bantam for the physical proof.

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House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas

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adventurous emotional tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated

4.0

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An Education in Malice by S.T. Gibson

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dark mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Enjoyably decadent in the most delicious of ways, S.T. Gibson’s gothic, Dark Academia retelling of Carmilla was an intoxicatingly lush and immersive read that Vampire lovers definitely don’t want to miss.

It’s set in 1960s Massachusetts, at St Perpetua’s Women’s College and sees freshman Laura lured into a world of sensual rivalries, secrets and deadly obsession that had me utterly gripped. I’m not all that familiar with the story of Carmilla (besides knowing that it’s a sapphic vampire novel) but the gothic atmosphere and dark academia aesthetic were absolutely spot on.

If you’ve read Gibson’s previous novel (A Dowry of Blood) you’ll know that her prose is gorgeously lyrical and haunting in the best way, so it should come as no surprise that her follow up (and companion novel to A Dowry of Blood) is just as captivating.

I loved both protagonists (and POV characters) Laura and Carmilla, who balanced each other out rather well (Carmilla’s confidence emboldening naive Laura into a more dominant role was quite interesting to watch unfold.)

The heady cocktail of jealousy, obsession and competitiveness they exhibit (for the attention of their demanding poetry professor, De Lafontaine) was also really intriguing and made for a rather intense (but utterly gripping) first half. Though, I do feel that De Lafontaine as a character wasn’t as detailed as I would’ve liked. And had hoped to explore her conflicted thoughts and actions (particularly when it came to her maker) in more depth.

Overall, a beautifully written story that Dark Academia fans are sure to enjoy!

Also a huge thank you to Orbit and Netgalley for the e-arc.

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ASAP by Axie Oh

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emotional funny lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Heartwarmingly sweet and utterly swoon-worthy, the highly anticipated companion novel to XOXO was an absolute joy from start to finish! With the elusive world of K-pop idols and the Korean entertainment industry as a backdrop, not to mention the intoxicating chemistry between our protagonists, I was thoroughly hooked!

Having enjoyed Axie Oh’s XOXO (and loved soo many of the characters, but especially Sori and Nathaniel) I was soo excited to find out my faves were finally getting their own companion story. And having just finished I’m happy to report that it was everything I hoped it would be.

The setting was delightfully rich in detail with a behind the scenes-style view of what life in the spotlight can actually entail for women, (rehearsals, daily schedules, loss of privacy and intense public scrutiny) that I found incredibly interesting. But there’s plenty of glamorous stuff too like radio interviews, TV Cameos and glitzy award show appearances that really amped up the swoony K-drama aesthetics, which (in my opinion) would make for a pretty amazing TV (or movie) adaptation.

The character development of our protagonists was also wonderfully detailed— particularly for Sori who’s beautifully written story arc captures more than just her conflicted feelings for ex, Nathaniel. Gifting us a front row seat to the softer more emotionally vulnerable (and plushie loving) person hiding behind the glamorous “bad girl” exterior.

Our endearing cast of supporting characters were all fabulously full of depth as well, and I loved that besides some of the newer faces (Sori’s adorable mentee Hyemi and Nathaniel’s sister Nadine) several old faves also make an appearance (specifically Jenny, Jaewoo, Youngmin and Sun.) But I think, of all the cameos, I was especially excited to see more of Sun, who is slightly more candid (and likeable) than the mysterious figure we met previously.

As the grandson of a billionaire, he understands Sori’s complicated thoughts surrounding duty and family in a way that no-one else seems to, and was a great sounding board for Sori in working out her feelings. I kinda hope, should there be another companion novel, that it centres around him.

Of course, the main draw was definitely the sizzlingly delicious chemistry between Sori and Nathaniel, that’s been noticeable since XOXO—and boy was it even more electric! I don’t want to spoil anything but just know that it’s veritable rollercoaster of emotions that will have you glued to your seat.

Overall, this was a pacy second chance (forbidden) romance that will appeal to fans of K-drama, YA Romance and adorable MCs you can’t help but root for.

Also, a huge thank you to Nina Douglas & Harper360YA for the stunning proof

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Sunbringer by Hannah Kaner

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adventurous emotional tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

The sequel to Hannah Kaner’s deliciously enchanting debut is just as breathtakingly action packed, well plotted and unputdownable as the first!

It follows immediately on from the explosive events of Godkiller, and sees Kissen, Elogast and Inara delve ever deeper into the world of gods, kings and the faith that powers both.

Having absolutely loved Godkiller (it was one of my favourite books of 2023) I was beyond excited to get my hands on an early copy of it’s sequel, Sunbringer — and trust me when I tell you that it’s even better than I had anticipated!

The depth we once again explore in our characters, particularly Kissen and Inara, was absolutely phenomenal! I loved the parallels between their situations (in their complex feelings surrounding grief, vengeance and the need to find closure and justice) and felt it really bonded them despite the physical distance they endure.

Kissen, who’s finally completed her life’s purpose has now begun to move past the anger that has fuelled her for soo long. By attempting to find a more pragmatic solution to solving her problems, and interacting with Gods in a less confrontational (or violent) way—choosing instead to protect the people she loves most.

I was a little worried Kissen’s new-found maturity would ruin the compelling aspect that made me love her soo much-mainly her gruff, standoffish nature and fiery tenacity. But instead, it only added a greater level of complexity to her decision making that (though slightly less impulsive) was still incredibly intriguing.

Inara, like Kissen, goes through some big changes herself, with an emotional journey that delves ever deeper into the lore of Gods —and uncovering the truth behind Inara’s unique abilities and connection to Skedi (the God of White Lies) that had me completely gripped.

If, like me, you adore well crafted world-building, then you’re gonna love the lush and vividly detailed descriptions that Kaner’s skillful prose brings to life.

Especially the descriptions of Lesscia, home of Kissen’s adoptive family Telle and Yatho (and the Kingdom’s centre of knowledge.) With an intrinsically strong connection to the kingdom’s history (and to it’s patron God, Scian) I enjoyed exploring the complex and contradictory nuances of faith, where Gods are still venerated just as much as they are vilified. And absolutely loved getting to meet more of them (besides just Skedi.)

Elogast’s transformation from reluctant knight (and baker) into a bonafide protector of the people was also really interesting to watch unfold. His arc is very political intrigue heavy and shaped by the complicated history he shares with the King (who we also get to explore as a POV character), but is instrumental in getting all of our main players into position for the third and final novel in the series.

Overall, an immersive and unputdownable second instalment that has me eager to see where book three will take us.

Also, a huge thank you Harper Voyager for the arc.

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The Book of Love by Kelly Link

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adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Gorgeously tender and rich in magic and whimsy, Kelly Link’s long awaited fantasy debut was just as weird and wonderfully immersive as I hoped it would be!

With incredible world-building and an emotional, character driven narrative that borders on the uncanny, Link has created a modern masterpiece of speculative fiction that even Lewis Carroll would be envious of.

It’s set in the small, seaside town of Lovesend, MA and follows three teens (Mo, Daniel and Laura) who return from the dead and tasked (by their seemingly magical high school music teacher, no less) with learning to use the magic they each now posses. As well as remember the circumstances that led to their deaths.

But with talking animals, unhinged goddesses and mysterious magical boys slowly overtaking the town—our formerly unalive MCs must succeed if they wish to save themselves (and their town) from the bizarre goings on that seek to destroy everything they hold most dear.

This is actually the first of Link’s work I’ve ever read, but the glowing praise for her short stories made me eager to get my hands on her first full length novel—and unsurprisingly, it didn’t disappoint. The prose is fabulously lyrical and the intricately woven characters were an absolute joy to get to know.

With meticulously crafted backstories and messy, melodramatic relationships driving the narrative-Susannah, Laura, Mo and Daniel, and their experiences with life and love (in all its varied forms) was powerfully compelling.

From the grief stricken pain of losing a family member, to strained sibling relationships, first loves and embittered rivalries— we really delve into the core of each of our flawed protagonists. Capturing such an emotionally detailed picture that, by the end I was emotionally invested in them all to some extent.

Even antagonist Bogomil, and (the Aziraphale to his Crowley) counterpart, Mr. Anabin (who I was prepared to dislike on sight) had some tender blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments that got me rooting for them too. But of all the characters we encounter, it was Carousel (Daniel’s precocious little sister) that I loved the most—her reactions and sass were sheer perfection and I’d love to see a short story (or two) centred around her.

I should probably also mention that it does clock in at just over 600 pages (626 in the UK arc), which I know seems daunting if you don’t read a lot of chunky books. However, the writing was soo beautifully done that the length didn’t really bother me, and I pretty much inhaled the first hundred or so pages without even realising.

Overall, an immersive and thoroughly enjoyable love letter to love—and all things strange and unusual,that fans of Buffy, Good Omens or Tim Burton’s are sure to enjoy.

Also a huge thank you to Jade over at Head of Zeus for the wonderful proof

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natashaleighton_'s reviews 976 reviews

natashaleighton_'s reviews
976 reviews