scmuirauthor's reviews
332 reviews

Woodborn is one of the most beautifully written books I have ever read. Nix's writing style is similar to that of Erin Morgenstern, where the imagery and descriptions are so vivid, you feel like you are actually there. The language was incredible and Nix is now one of my "Auto-buy authors"! 

The worldbuilding in Woodborn is immaculate. Nix builds a world that reminds me of a Dungeons and Dragons campaign, with different towns that are all uniquely their own in a world where different races of creatures exist (fauns, witches, etc). The magic system of the witches pulls from the traditional thoughts about witches (like flying), but Nix puts her own spin on it and makes it unique. 

Every main character has their own story, goals, and character arc, even though they are all intertwined. The amount of planning that must have gone into creating these story arcs really paid off because every main character is loveable, determined, and interesting. 

This book deals with heavy topics like rape, PTSD, sexual assault, and murder. But Nix handles these topics with grace. They played a role in the story and the character's backstories and weren't just a plot device for no reason. There is a trigger warning at the beginning of the book which I appreciated greatly.

This book is full of queer characters and badass women. It is an extremely feminist book where the women characters stand up for themselves and right the injustices they have been dealt by men. Pick up Woodborn if you want a book where the women are badass, fierce, and a little morally grey sometimes. 

Thank you Heather Nix for an ARC of Woodborn in exchange for an honest review! I can't wait to read more.

If you are looking for a book with strong, powerful female characters then look no further! Blood of Queens by Maddie Jensen is an incredible story of female power. 

After Carissa witnesses her entire family’s murder, she is forced to become the Queen of her nation and marry the son of her family’s murderer. When her husband returns four years later, they embark on a tour around the countries loyal to the crown to quell musings of resistance. 

My favorite thing about this book was the royal court politics. I love betrayal and lying in books and Blood of Queens really satisfied that for me. Carissa is a strong female leader who comes into herself as the story progresses, finding ways to build herself up while navigating a world that hates her for marrying the enemy. 

The magic system was really unique and I’m looking forward to learning more about it in Book 2! Carissa is a Blood witch and she is insanely powerful. She could probably move mountains with her magic. 

I am really looking forward to Book 2! If you’re looking for a quick fantasy read, Blood of Queens should be your pick!