As a long-time fan of the series, I was extremely excited to get stuck into The Mask Falling and my only disappointment was that it had to end. Having read each of the books up until this point, I entered this next instalment with a deep sense of dread in the pit of my stomach as I turned each riveting page. I would nervously relish in every small victory for Team Black Moth, all the while knowing that Shannon must have cooked up new intricate ways to torment us along the way.

The Mask Falling delivers in that we finally get some of the answers to questions we’ve collated over the series. It’s extremely satisfying, particularly as Shannon also answers questions we didn’t even know we had in the first place, so this comes as a delightfully unexpected surprise! Don’t be fooled for a second, however, that this means all the pieces will slot into place. Shannon will leave you both in awe of her latest work and also screaming in rage (and excitement) at its explosive sequence of events as they unfold throughout the book. I finished it on Christmas Day and I struggled to emotionally collect myself, which is why I have taken some time before sitting down to write a review.

This next chapter of the overarching story is set in Paris. You have to admire Shannon’s extensive effort to describe it in such beautiful detail, as well as neatly weave in French language throughout to make the setting feel truly authentic. Following the events at the end of The Song Rising and The Dawn Chorus, we are given an initial moment to catch our breath, witnessing some intimate, tense, and humorous moments between Paige and Warden as they adjust to life in France.

The Mask Falling is very reflective in general, giving appropriate time and attention to important themes such as the exploration of mental health, which was touching to see. There is also the welcome addition of familiar faces along with some new ones. You will soon find yourself questioning every character and their motives as it continues to remain increasingly difficult to know which side anyone is on in the fight against Scion!

I have so much love for The Bone Season series. The Mask Falling is truly another solid addition, perhaps marking what could be regarded as the tipping point before we transition into the next sequence of events. Shannon has created a layered and well-thought out world that is rich in history, clairvoyance and representation. I am so very grateful to Bloomsbury for giving me the opportunity to read it and I just know that this is going to be a series I will continue to rave about in the years to come. Parfait!

Having read the first in the DI Eve Hunter series, I was very excited to get back into Eve’s world of crime scenes and of course, murder. It just took me a little bit longer than I would have liked to get round to it!

Deborah Masson continues to flesh out the characters who we’ve come to know and love, subtly touching upon previous events that do not overburden readers of the first book in the series, but is equally beneficial for bringing newcomers up to speed. That being said, the book could easily be read as a standalone without the need for prior background context, if desired. I would definitely recommend reading Hold Your Tongue though as it’s a cracking debut.

There is effective use of multiple narration and points of view throughout the story, which keeps it edgy and fresh throughout. Deborah has also presented a well-thought out story which commends her level of research into police procedures, and has all the red herrings, tense confrontations and jigsaw puzzle pieces we need to remain hooked.

It is worth noting that that this book takes a different direction to the first in that it doesn’t focus on a series of continual serial murders, but has a tighter focus on police procedural and the underworld of crime (the corruption we don’t see happening on a mass scale behind closed doors). This therefore sets a different tone for the book, but certainly shouldn’t be considered as a fault. Masson does an excellent job of bringing our attention to the world of the rich, where status is regularly abused – something that has been quite prevalent in the media recently. Similarly, there is much to be covered about human trafficking, toxic masculinity and female empowerment throughout the book which makes it all the more worthwhile to read.

I thoroughly enjoyed ‘Out For Blood’ and would like to thank both Netgalley and Random House UK for giving me the opportunity to read it. Masson has certainly crafted a solid and original sequel with an intricately woven plot that ticks all the boxes you want from the genre.

We have all experienced that feeling where we are alone on a dark night and believe there is something or someone watching us, but when we look, there is nothing there except our paralysing fear. This sums up how I felt reading The Home, enjoying it so much that I finished it in just two sittings. Strandberg successfully delivers those moments of terror we experience when watching a perfectly executed horror film, and has woven together a creepy, yet simple, story that forces the reader to face the monsters hidden in the closet, much like the characters in the novel.

The majority of the The Home takes place inside Pineshade Nursing Home and provides a deep humanising insight into the tragic, harrowing, and touching moments of dementia, and the effect it has on the patients, their families, and those who care for them on a daily basis. I feel that all readers should be able to relate in some way, which ultimately makes the plot much more horrifying as it unfolds.

Without revealing any spoilers, exploring the impact of dementia really heightens the creepy, and often subtle elements, of horror throughout the story, leading the patients, the carers, and even the reader to question the reality of the situation they are facing given the nature of the disease. You will find yourself rooting for the characters as Strandberg does an excellent job of playing with the mind and building a lot on what cannot be seen. There is a looming sense of dread that continues to crescendo (much like the patients’ outbursts) until it reaches a satisfying climax.

We follow most of the story in Joel and Nina’s points of view, who have equally been given a lot of thought and development. There is some rich backstory to sink your teeth into which feeds well into the main arc of the story. Furthermore, it is nice to see how representation of different communities, such as LGBTQ+, was part of the narrative but in no way forced, or an integral part of the story.

The Home is certainly a welcome addition to a genre which often lacks suspense and originality. I would therefore very much like to thank Jo Fletcher Books (Quercus Books) for granting me access to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.

(Not final cover)

Ever imagined being able to open a suitcase, step inside and end up in a completely different world? Well, I can tell you what this feels like because I had the privilege of exploring a fascinating multiverse alongside the charming duo, Flick and Jonathan, in a reading time which took me less than 24 hours! First thoughts after finishing: I NEED MORE OF STRANGEWORLDS.

This debut is simply a middle-grade magical marvel which is going to take the shelves by storm in April 2020. Lapinski has done an excellent job at creating an array of worlds which not only act as a nod of recognition to traditional fantasy tropes, but opens schisms into brand new ones! Each world is carefully crafted with lush environments, all of which are full of wonder and some which leave a prickly feeling on your skin: there is definitely something for everyone’s tastes.

I really adored Flick and Jonathan’s characters, and the friendship they share on their quest to save Five Lights before it collapses into nothingness. Aside from the main story arc, Lapinski neatly weaves in subplots and world building that leaves enough unanswered questions that you just know this is going to be one of many in a gripping series. I personally think this is one of the most alluring aspects of Strangeworlds because Lapinski gives you a taste of the worlds, as well as the characters and their stories, but it is enough to leave you invested in what has yet to unfold. It sets a great framework, quite alike to other existing huge middle-grade fantasy series’ out there, where the reader will develop such an attachment and familiarity with Strangeworlds, each return to these worlds and character arcs in later books will be comparable to the warm comfort of meeting an old friend you haven’t seen for years.

There is plenty of exploration of themes around companionship, family and loss (among others) throughout the novel, which are handled with maturity that is relatable for both children and adult readers.  Strangeworlds is an original story with love, humour, excitement, and even fear, running through its magical core. Lapinski has certainly laid out the groundwork for us to continue exploring this rich setting for years to come and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

Thank you to both Netgalley and Orion Children’s Books for giving me the opportunity to read and review this smashing debut.

You should definitely preorder The Strangeworlds Travel Agency so its ready to take in your suitcase on an adventure next Spring!

 

 

 

WOW! The first thing you should know is that I instantly had to write this review upon finishing the novel.

The Memory Wood is a chilling story about the abduction of a 13-year-old girl, Elissa, and I don’t think I have ever read anything quite like it.  Do not be deceived in thinking that this is like any other thriller you have read which involves kidnapping. It is not.

When I first started reading The Memory Wood, the prose was quite alien to me in a way that it was something I hadn’t come across before, and I honestly wasn’t sure how I felt about it. It’s difficult to delve too much into the specifics without giving away the various twists and turns, but the further into the story I travelled, the more I realised just how clever and meticulously thought out it was. It’s easy to go into this one thinking you have it all figured out but you are definitely in for an unexpected journey which leaves you feeling as lost as Elissa, deep within the woods.

The writing is simplistic and doesn’t delve too much into laborious description about the mundane, and yet this is what makes it so addictive because it focuses on exactly what it needs to. Told using multiple narratives, Lloyd does an excellent job at creating characters and voices that even the darkest of writerly minds would have a hard time pulling off.

There are some harrowing scenes throughout the novel and Lloyd makes sure not to gloss over these, hitting us hard with raw, and often graphic, moments. That being said,  it’s tasteful in that these moments are absolutely necessary to really capture the sinister atmosphere that has been created. The story unfolds in ways that I did not expect, and after reaching the half way point, I wasn’t sure how it was going to end. I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster in those final chapters and Lloyd manages to create reader empathy where it honestly doesn’t feel like it should be possible!

Finally, there are some great themes around loss and parenthood woven throughout the novel, which play nicely into the main arc of the story. Thank you to both Netgalley and Random House UK. Transworld Publishers for giving me the opportunity to read and feedback on this fantastic novel.  Watch out 2020!

Having recently requested to read this novel on Netgalley, I quickly devoured it within two days, and was not disappointed.

I’m usually quite a reluctant reader when it comes to crime/thriller/investigative novels but I think one of Masson’s strengths is her ability to create a fleshed out team of characters that keep you invested as a reader, and this is something which is often lacking in the genre. The compassion and investment displayed by these characters, in both the victims and each other, is a testament to Masson’s writing.

Following her return to work, after some traumatic events six months prior, you instantly feel a lot of empathy for the main protagonist, Eve. This particularly cuts deep when it comes to her relationship with Sanders and plays nicely into the themes of guilt that Masson has explored in each of the individual characters throughout the story. Some multiple narration keeps the read fresh and intriguing, and there really is some beautiful descriptions, particularly of Aberdeen, which gives the reader a real sense of setting.

Fans who are thirsty for violence and grisly murders will be pleased with what the novel has to offer – there’s definitely no shortage. This is then coupled with an intricate plot which has many layers and connections that need to be unravelled throughout the story.  It took me a while to put the pieces together but when it happens, they come steamrolling in. It’s safe to say that I was kept guessing and suspected pretty much every single character, including the killer, but Masson masterfully ensures there are plenty of subtle details and misdirection interwoven throughout the investigation to keep you questioning the true killer’s identity until the end. Ultimately, there is a very satisfying resolution to the case which goes beyond just nailing the killer, as there is so much more to uncover about the history and motives behind the madness.

Thank you to both Netgalley and Random House UK. Transworld Publishers for giving me the opportunity to read and feedback on this great novel. I have no doubt that it will be a popular addition to the shelves in January 2020, and definitely the start of a new series, I expect!

 

 

Melinda Salisbury has done it again and if I’m honest, that’s all the review this book needs. There aren’t enough words to express how awesome a sequel ‘The Sleeping Prince’ really is. It’s genius.

Picking up where ‘The Sin Eater’s Daughter’ left off, we experience the next part of the story from Errin’s point of view. With the Sleeping Prince awake and hell bent on complete domination,  we must journey across a kingdom on the brink of war to seek another way to save Errin’s ill mother and herself. It appears that the only person she can turn to is the mysterious Silas, who by the way, you can’t help but feel ridiculously attracted to despite the fact you don’t really know who he is or even what he looks like.

I am usually quite nervous about sequels where the point of view of the protagonist changes, but the transition is seamless and Melinda Salisbury’s reasons for this soon become clear, and satisfyingly so! This sequel really expands its setting far outside of Lormere, giving us a rich insight into the neighbouring lands. Spoken tales are never short on mythology and alchemy, not to mention, every part of Errin’s journey is filled with perilous action and, of course, delicious twists and turns.

The latter chapters in the novel were a treat, leaving me numb with feelings I haven’t quite experienced in the fantasy genre since the days of Harry Potter. There is so much tension and the fantasy world Melinda has created is so beautiful and precisely detailed in places. Errin is a strong, resilient protagonist and certainly an unstoppable force when she sets her mind on what she wants. Although Twylla’s blind innocence stole my heart in the first novel, I was struggling with an internal battle of who I loved more out of the two characters by the end of the second book. Don’t worry though, there are still characters you will despise, and infuriatingly so (in a good way of course).

I think what is so special about ‘The Sleeping Prince’ is that by the end of it, you really start to encompass what Melinda is doing to weave an intricate plot together. Think of it as some epic cake where ‘The Sin Eater’s Daughter’ is the sponge base, growing and expanding until it is ready for a deliriously satisfying filling that is the ‘The Sleeping Prince’.

If you haven’t read it yet, make sure you get out to your local book store and buy it. Be warned though that you’re in for an agonising cliffhanger that is going to make the wait for book three painful, but totally worth it I expect!

Want to know more about Melinda Salisbury and her writing? Follow her on Twitter: @AHintofMystery

 

I think the first thing you should know about Paper Butterflies is that you will never quite get over this story. June’s voice is one that steals your heart and locks it away for a long, long time.

Lisa has written another wonderfully dark and heartbreaking tale that centralises on the concept of power. June’s story also draws on modern domestic themes which equally is what makes it current and in parts, terrifying. I mean, how much do we really know about what goes on behind closed doors?

Paper Butterflies invites us to spectate the sinister home life of June, and her stepmother and stepsister. While her father remains unaware of a dark secret, only Blister appears to be June’s ray of sunshine at a difficult time.

I can honestly say that it takes a lot for me to cry when I read a novel, but June’s story had me in floods of tears.  Lisa has a knack for drip feeding us with dread, so much so that even when things look positive, you KNOW that it’s coming. You don’t even know what IT is, but I can guarantee that in Paper Butterflies, you will not see its various twists and turns coming. I can’t tell you how many times I was consumed with blinding rage, mainly because I felt useless – unable to ease June’s pain.

I think June’s voice is the key centrepiece of this novel, offering an honest recount of events that are both rich in detail and layered with emotion that tugs at the heartstrings. This combined with Blister’s selfless and lovable nature, makes for one hell of a read.

Paper Butterflies will be available to buy on 30th June 2016 and it is for this reason, I am holding back on details (which could be considered spoilers) that would otherwise be included in a full review. I would also like to thank Maggie at Electric Monkey for giving me the opportunity to read this beautiful novel.

If you plan on pre-ordering a book anytime soon, you should make sure Paper Butterflies is at the top of your wishlist as I assure you, it will not disappoint.

Curious to find out more about Lisa Heathfield and her available debut, ‘SEED’? Make sure to check her out on Twitter: @LisaHeathfield

 

Here’s to another novel that is deserving of endless praise! ‘SEED’ is a sensational read that captivates you from the very first page.

I do not wish to provide you with spoilers because I NEED you to read this book. ‘SEED’ explores life as part of a cult and it offers an insight into the use of power in the wrong hands. The opening chapter sets up this feeling that can only be described as ‘dread.’ This feeling manifests itself in your gut and crescendos throughout the novel. Then there is the terrifying climax…

I think one thing Lisa Heathfield executes so well in this novel is her way of exploring adult themes, such as sex and violence, but in a YA context. She is able to contain each element so that it doesn’t come across as graphic. As the reader, we are left to think for ourselves and speculate about what is really going on behind closed doors. That’s the real beauty of this novel.

The setting of ‘SEED’ doesn’t really expand outside of the location itself but that’s what makes the read so compelling. We are already so aware of our ‘normal’ world, we are hellbent on getting to the bottom of this darkness to be found at the heart of SEED.

Written in first person (PrT) it adds the urgency to the plot that it craves. We get a real insight into the protagonists’ mind and the relationships she has with those around her. You feel like you and the protagonist are one, trying to justify the ‘perfect’ creation that is SEED but at the same time, doubting it.

The antagonist is a force to be reckoned with, and one that will truly send shivers down your spine. It isn’t about what they say, or even do, it’s all about the normality presented throughout.

Not spotted ‘SEED’ yet on your local bookshelves? Well you can’t miss it! The cover is beautifully designed and certainly stands out from the rest. In a market saturated with replica fiction, ‘SEED’ holds its own. I can honestly say that I have never read anything quite like it for this age group.

You won’t be able to put the book down, you won’t be able to peel your eyes away from the terror, and most of all, you won’t be able to get over the numbness you’ll feel at the end of it.

Intrigued to give it a read? You should be! Check out ‘SEED’ here:

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23013819-seed

Or follow Lisa Heathfield on Twitter to find out more:

@LisaHeathfield

I finished this novel not too long ago and it was certainly a treat! I am not an expert reviewer by any means, but ‘The Sin Eater’s Daughter’ deserves recognition for restoring my faith in reading!

For too long I have started and stopped novels because life gets in the way and this is one of few I have managed to finish in recent months. This blog isn’t here to give spoilers but to provide you with an insight as to why you should go out and buy this book right now! If you are reading this post, you will see it as an appreciation of good writing, rather than a deconstruction of an entire text.

From the opening chapter, your curiosity gets the best of you. I mean a member of the royal family who can poison anyone with just the touch of her finger has to spark some interest, right?

I am usually reluctant to read first person novels written in the present tense, but it is executed perfectly without monotony. What is so clever about ‘The Sin Eater’s Daughter’ is that in terms of setting, you never really journey far from the castle and yet the strong character relationships compel you to read on. There are some meaty characters to sink your teeth into. The Queen, for example, is a force to be reckoned with, presented in such a way that you feel like getting inside the pages and screaming at her on the protagonist’s behalf.

Melinda Salisbury feeds you with fantastic mythology that flows seamlessly through dialogue, short flashbacks and character building. The monarchy reminded me of modern novels such as ‘Game of Thrones’, yet simpler and engaging in its construction. At the same time, the city of Lormere and its historical traditions, reminded me of classic Disney tales such as ‘Sleeping Beauty.’ Both are elements that I feel young readers crave in High Fantasy fiction. I know I do!

If you are a lover of twists, my god, there are enough twists in this novel to leave your jaw permanently dislocated. You have to expect the unexpected. Every incident foreshadows future events, many of which you fail to see until the last minute. ‘The Sin Eater’s Daughter’ is certainly a refreshing read because even when you reach a climatic point in the novel (and there are many of these), it never goes in the way you expect it to.

I would recommend shutting yourself in a room for the final ten chapters because you are not going to want any interruptions. You will also find that when you finish, your heart will be crushed, you will be suffering from a terrible reading hangover, and you will tweet Melinda Salisbury begging to read the sequel right away.

It is hard to do a novel justice without giving in depth details about the story but at the same time, ‘The Sin Eater’s Daughter’ is a novel that you have to read blind, so to speak, to truly appreciate the author’s genius thought process.

If my enthusiasm has you curious, then check out the novel here: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21936988-the-sin-eater-s-daughter

Alternatively, you could always give Melinda Salisbury a follow on Twitter – @AHintofMystery

I can’t wait for the sequel!