Samantha Heather Mackey couldn’t be more of an outsider in her small, highly selective MFA program at New England’s Warren University. A scholarship student who prefers the company of her dark imagination to that of most people, she is utterly repelled by the rest of her fiction writing cohort–a clique of unbearably twee rich girls who call each other “Bunny,” and seem to move and speak as one.
But everything changes when Samantha receives an invitation to the Bunnies’ fabled “Smut Salon,” and finds herself inexplicably drawn to their front door–ditching her only friend, Ava, in the process. As Samantha plunges deeper and deeper into the Bunnies’ sinister yet saccharine world, beginning to take part in the ritualistic off-campus “Workshop” where they conjure their monstrous creations, the edges of reality begin to blur. Soon, her friendships with Ava and the Bunnies will be brought into deadly collision.
⭐⭐
Rating: 1.5 out of 5.
REVIEW
THEMES: HORROR, THRILLER, TENSE, MEDIUM-PACED.
Samantha Heather Mackey – a student in a competitive MFA programme – has to deal with four peculiar women in her class, who affectionately call each other ‘bunny’. Despite frequently expressing her dislike for the bunnies, she cannot hide her pleasure when she is invited to one of their exclusive hangouts. As someone with few friends, she decides to go. Though, they are everything and nothing like she imagined – it is interesting how one night can push someone so far down the rabbit hole.
Bunny is a novel which I remember in vivid detail – so I can confidently share that it is a book that leaves an impression.
The characters are interesting, though a little cliche (loner who wants to fit in, nonconformist emo/alternative best friend, and a clique of ‘mean’ girls). However, Awad uses the plot of the story to distract from the unoriginal character dynamics – in saying that, with such an intense story, having simpler structures may be better suited. Otherwise, it could become over-the-top and confusing.
Awad has a descriptive writing style and knows how to keep her audience captivated – I read this a while ago and still virtually remember everything that happens, which is rare, as I normally only remember snippets. Everything was so colourful and prominent; it really felt like I was Samantha.
The reason I have given such a low rating is because it is not the type of horror I enjoy – if Awad wrote a horror/thriller in the sub-genre I prefer, I have no doubt I would love it. [I have written my unfiltered opinions on the Spoiler Review, if you wish to read more specifics.]
This book reminds me of Boy Parts by Eliza Clark (which I also was not a big fan of), so if you enjoyed that, then definitely give Bunny a try.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
In the early 1900s, teenaged Sunja, the adored daughter of a crippled fisherman, falls for a wealthy stranger at the seashore near her home in Korea. He promises her the world, but when she discovers she is pregnant—and that her lover is married—she refuses to be bought. Instead, she accepts an offer of marriage from a gentle, sickly minister passing through on his way to Japan. But her decision to abandon her home, and to reject her son’s powerful father, sets off a dramatic saga that will echo down through the generations.
REVIEW
THEMES: HISTORICAL, ASIAN FICTION, EMOTIONAL, MEDIUM-PACED.
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee is a touching story that follows over a hundred years in the life of one Korean family. At the beginning of the story, Sunja is introduced as the daughter of a crippled fisherman. Readers follow Sunja into adulthood, where she meets a wealthy stranger who takes a special interest in her. What transpires between them forces Sunja to leave for Japan to start a new life—otherwise, her family will face ruin.
Pachinko was introduced to me by a friend who claimed it was their favourite book of all time. This was a big statement, so of course, I gave it a go. They were correct—this is one of the most beautiful books I have ever read.
Min Jin Lee’s writing style is amazing, although it is an acquired taste, as she has a habit of time jumps and leaving certain conclusions open. I absolutely love the way she tells a story; she does not dwell, and she often lets readers draw their own conclusions—or she will casually reveal prior resolutions later in the story. I have never read a book written quite like hers, before or since.
The plot is well planned and brilliantly executed. Whilst it tells a simple story of hardship and struggle, it is also deeply complex and real. This makes sense, considering it draws from historical events. The descriptions, character depth, and dialogue feel as though they were plucked from real life. I still vividly remember everything that takes place in this book and know it will stay with me for the rest of my life.
The closest book I could compare it to is Memoirs of a Geisha—not just because it is set in Japan (though contextually that helps), but because of the gruff nature of certain characters and the realistic portrayal of life during times of struggle.
Please, please, please read this book. If you love historical fiction, it’s a must. However, everyone should give it a try.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
Two women awaken from a drugged sleep to find themselves imprisoned in an abandoned property in the middle of a desert in a story of two friends, sisterly love and courage – a gripping, starkly imaginative exploration of contemporary misogyny and corporate control, and of what it means to hunt and be hunted.
Strangers to each other, they have no idea where they are or how they came to be there with eight other girls, forced to wear strange uniforms, their heads shaved, guarded by two inept yet vicious armed jailers and a ‘nurse’. The girls all have something in common, but what is it? What crime has brought them here from the city? Who is the mysterious security company responsible for this desolate place with its brutal rules, its total isolation from the contemporary world? Doing hard labour under a sweltering sun, the prisoners soon learn what links them: in each girl’s past is a sexual scandal with a powerful man. They pray for rescue – but when the food starts running out it becomes clear that the jailers have also become the jailed. The girls can only rescue themselves.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
REVIEW
THEMES: DYSTOPIAN, DARK, TENSE, AUSTRALIAN FICTION, MEDIUM-PACED.
The Natural Way of Things is a powerful story set in the Australian bush. A group of women wake up in the middle of nowhere, each as confused as the other. They are forced to endure hard labour and humiliating rituals. As the story progresses, their pasts come to light—hinting at the real reason they are trapped in this desolate prison. Author Charlotte Wood touches on the prevalent issues surrounding the patriarchy, focusing on the all-too-real experiences women face every day.
What I adore about this book is Wood’s beautiful writing style. It is transportive, with precise and vivid descriptions. Even in the more negative reviews I have read, almost all mention Wood’s picturesque writing.
Each of the characters is described at face value; their attributes and flaws make them relatable, insufferable, and loveable. The inner and outer dialogue seem plucked from real conversations and thoughts, allowing readers to truly resonate with the story.
What I admire about Wood is that she treats the characters as people—not victims or even survivors. In stories such as these, it can be easy for authors to skate around the subject, cushioning each sentence to avoid potential offence. Whilst this is sometimes necessary, depending on the story, it can be more effective to acknowledge and move on than fixate and (sometimes) sensationalise.
I was able to get to know the characters beyond their trauma and pain. This allowed me to like and dislike them without my perception being affected by their past. Wood’s nuanced approach to trauma is impressive, as it can be hard to achieve in a respectful and appropriate manner.
What I also enjoyed was the theme of self-discovery under less-than-desirable circumstances. Even though it is a horrific situation, there is a silver lining (albeit a very small one).
The plot of the story is interesting but somewhat confusing. I do not mind this entirely, but I think she could have clarified some parts—I am still unsure exactly where they were and whether their situation was meant to be legal or illegal.
I think this is an important book to read. Like The Handmaid’s Tale, it explores relevant social issues and highlights how real the patriarchy is.
I would implore that everyone read this book. I absolutely love it. However, it is rather bleak, and the descriptions can get gory—so it is not for the weak-stomached. Funnily enough, I did not find it overly bleak, but I did listen to it as an audiobook, so that may be why.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
In “Memoirs of a Geisha,” we enter a world where appearances are paramount; where a girl’s virginity is auctioned to the highest bidder; where women are trained to beguile the most powerful men; and where love is scorned as illusion.
This book definitely deserves the reputation it has earned. I always see it in the second-hand shops, so I – unfairly – assumed it was ‘good’ but nothing special. This was one of those books where I knew within the first few pages that I would love it.
The relationship dynamics that Sayuri has with each character feels realistic. Golden is able to subtly display the impact each character left on Sayuri, no matter how small – in regard to the roles they played in her life. His writing style is immersive, and his storytelling allows the mind to wander into the pages of the book.
I love how female-centred this story is. Regardless of any transgressions the women committed, they have strength in their own right and are respected in their role.
It is a common misconception that a Geisha is likened to a prostitute – whilst this is addressed in the book – it is not pushed or stigmatized like it could have been. Although, I do not want to praise an author for doing the bare minimum – as it should be expected that a male, white author would respect a traditional, Japanese (female dominated), profession.
I really did not like the ending of this book. Throughout the story, the readers ‘watch’ as Sayuri becomes wise and independent as a result of years of adversity. Whilst she did pine for the Chairman, it did not feel intense or reciprocated enough to derail her self-made image. Which is why the whole book lost some integrity when Golden gave into the ‘happily-ever-after’ ploy. By doing this, it continues the narrative that, whilst a woman can have an elaborate list of achievements and hardships, a man loving her back makes it all worth it. Sickening.
The worst part of it (to me) is that the Chairman is made out to be some sort of protagonist. He groomed Sayuri until adulthood, watched as she suffered through life and then confesses his ‘strong’ feelings for her, whilst married. He is just as bad as the rest of the men, save for the Baron.
I would recommend anyone give this book a go, especially if you are interested in Japanese history or the Japanese culture.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
In “Memoirs of a Geisha,” we enter a world where appearances are paramount; where a girl’s virginity is auctioned to the highest bidder; where women are trained to beguile the most powerful men; and where love is scorned as illusion.
This book definitely deserves the reputation it has earned. I always see it in the second-hand shops, so I – unfairly – assumed it was ‘good’ but nothing special. This was one of those books where I knew within the first few pages that I would love it.
The relationship dynamics that Sayuri has with each character feels realistic. Golden is able to subtly display the impact that each character left on Sayuri, no matter how small – respective to the roles they played in her life. His writing style is immersive, and his storytelling allows the mind to wander into the pages of the book.
I love how female-centred this story is. Regardless of any transgressions the women commit, they have strength in their own right and are respected in their role.
It is a common misconception that a Geisha is akin to a prostitute – whilst this is addressed in the book – it is not pushed or stigmatized like it could have been. Although, I do not want to praise an author for doing the bare minimum – as it should be expected that a male, white author would respect a traditional, Japanese (female dominated), profession.
I know that some of the behaviours exhibited in the story were accurate to the time, however there are some grey areas I am sceptical of. I am also not a big fan of a certain aspect of the book, but I digress, as I do not want to spoil anything.
I would recommend anyone give this book a go, especially if you are interested in Japanese history or Japanese culture.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
Miri thinks she has got her wife back, when Leah finally returns after a deep-sea mission that ended in catastrophe. It soon becomes clear, though, that Leah may have come back wrong. Whatever happened in that vessel, whatever it was they were supposed to be studying before they were stranded on the ocean floor, Leah has carried part of it with her, onto dry land and into their home.
To have the woman she loves back should mean a return to normal life, but Miri can feel Leah slipping from her grasp. Memories of what they had before – the jokes they shared, the films they watched, all the small things that made Leah hers – only remind Miri of what she stands to lose. Living in the same space but suddenly separate, Miri comes to realize that the life that they had might be gone.
Whilst it is accurate to describe this book as ‘horror’, it is not in the way you would think – as it is nothing like the horror books I have read prior. The best way I can describe it, is that it is ‘symbolic horror’, which I am pretty sure I just made up.
Armfield’s storytelling was exceptional, I have never been more captivated by an author’s style of writing before. She has such a relatable way of conveying points. It felt conversational. By this I mean quotes like, ‘It went on too long and too helplessly. The way anyone who sneezes more than four times abruptly loses sympathy of an audience’. To me, this is such a human experience, articulated in a clever and witty way.
The juxtaposition between Miri and Leah’s point of view was jarring. It makes it hard for the reader to decide who to sympathize with more. ‘Watching’ Miri mourn her living wife and revisit their fondest memories, then reading Leah’s final letters to Miri was devastating. I felt a pang in my heart during their final parting – the fact they had to let go of each other but insured that the other person was allowed their closure was touching.
The biggest takeaway I got from this story is to treasure the relationship you have with your loved ones, and not to take it for granted.
I would recommend this to someone who is trying to get into horror as it is a tame gateway book. Though, I would recommend anyone give this book a go, as Armfield’s writing style is very charming and fresh.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
Miri thinks she has got her wife back, when Leah finally returns after a deep-sea mission that ended in catastrophe. It soon becomes clear, though, that Leah may have come back wrong. Whatever happened in that vessel, whatever it was they were supposed to be studying before they were stranded on the ocean floor, Leah has carried part of it with her, onto dry land and into their home.
To have the woman she loves back should mean a return to normal life, but Miri can feel Leah slipping from her grasp. Memories of what they had before – the jokes they shared, the films they watched, all the small things that made Leah hers – only remind Miri of what she stands to lose. Living in the same space but suddenly separate, Miri comes to realize that the life that they had might be gone.
Whilst it is accurate to describe this book as ‘horror’, it is not in the way you would think – as it is nothing like the horror books I have read prior. The best way I can describe it, is that it is ‘symbolic horror’, which I am pretty sure I just made up.
Armfield’s storytelling was exceptional, I have never been more captivated by an author’s style of writing before. She has such a relatable way of conveying points. It felt conversational. I caught myself (frequently) thinking, ‘I have noticed that before as well’.
The juxtaposition between Miri and Leah’s point of view was jarring. It makes it hard for the reader to decide who to sympathize with more. I enjoy this as it provides an accurate depiction of what the characters in the book would be experiencing.
The biggest takeaway I got from this story is to treasure the relationship you have with your loved ones, and not to take it for granted.
I would recommend this to someone who is trying to get into horror as it is a tame gateway book. Though, I would recommend anyone give this book a go, as Armfield’s writing style is very charming and fresh.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
Fantasy is such a diverse genre, there are many different readers with specific niches that dictate what their preferred subgenres are. I am one for trying all – though I have my preferences- I have aimed for a mix of different books in my recommendations. There are standalones, trilogies and series in this list.
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Babel
By R.F Kuang
Released in 2022, 544 Pages.
Juxtaposed to his impoverished upbringing, Robin Swift has been brought to England by Professor Lovell and groomed to become a student at Babel. Swift must acclimate to the politics of being one of the few ethnic students, and choose his path accordingly, whilst simultaneously being swayed by conflicting influences.
If you are looking for a historical fiction that features Fantasy, then this book is for you. I was not prepared for Babel, thinking it was an average Fantasy book, I was taken aback the more I read. The Fantasy elements are realistic like ‘magic powering electricity’ opposed to fae fighting each other.
Kuang explores themes of colonization, whitewashing, racialized power dynamics and complicated friendships. The emotions these subjects evoke are strong whether with anger, sadness or understanding.
Be PREPARED for quite a few etymology lessons, at first, I was intrigued… then slowly started skimming. This originally caused me to dislike the book but overtime I have thought back on it and am now interested in etymology and the history of words!
Go into this knowing it will be more informative than relaxing and take breaks when your brain starts hurting. R.F Kuang clearly did methodical research to make this book what it is, which is why I respect her as much as I do.
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Throne Of Glass
By Sarah J. Maas
Released 2012-2018.
Summoned by the King to Adarlan – the land without magic – Celaena Sardothien must fight for her freedom, the alternative being life imprisonment. As a skilled Assassin, Celaena must prove herself to become the King’s Champion against all other candidates.
Provoked by The Crown Prince and protected by The Captain of the Guard, Celaena finds herself in some compromising situations, with mysterious deaths trailing behind her.
Throne of Glass is my favourite Fantasy series to date. People who have never read it often judge this, because it is not ‘Mistborn’ or ‘Lord of the Rings’ (nothing wrong with those series), so it is often overlooked.
The world building in this book is sensational, almost everything is accounted for. There are minute comments made in book one that are revisited in book five or six, Maas’ memory is impressive. The character growth, layering and subplots are what really make this series shine. I do not usually re-read series, but I will definitely re-read this one.
My personal favourites are ‘Tower of Dawn’ and ‘Empire of Storms’ (remembering to tandem read!)
I could not recommend this series enough, however, it is nothing like ACOTAR, so please do not go into it thinking that.
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The Prison Healer
By Lynette Noni
Released 2021-2022.
Kiva Meridan is imprisoned in the deadly Zalindov prison and has been for ten years, surviving by working as the prison’s healer. When the comatose Rebel Queen is brought in, Kiva is ordered to keep her alive long enough to face the brutal ‘Trial by Ordeal.’ After receiving coded messages instructing her to save the Queen’s life, Kiva is left with no choice but to take the Queen’s place — risking her life for a chance at freedom. Amid a deadly plague and shifting prison politics, she finds help in a mysterious new inmate, but survival will demand more than healing skills.
The Prison Healer series was a pleasant surprise for me, mainly because I unfairly assumed it would be average due to it being Young Adult. The events that unfold, the plot twists and quests are all fascinating and captivating, albeit the characters are a tad flavourless.
The first and third book are superb; I am partial to Blood Traitor but enjoyed Prison Healer as well, Gilded Cage, however, felt like a fluffer. It was necessary for the plot but was average. Do not let it dissuade you though, because the last book makes it all worth it.
I would recommend this book for someone who wants an enjoyable read that involves quests, trials, rebellion and battles. Although Romance was consistent throughout the series, it was not the focal point (for me).
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The Rook
By Daniel O’Malley
Released 2012, 496 Pages.
Myfanwy Thomas awakens in a park surrounded by bodies, all of which are wearing latex gloves. Upon finding a letter, Myfanwy follows the clues to uncover her former identity.
The letter explains she is a ‘Rook’, a high-ranking member of the Checquy, a secret organization that protects the country from supernatural forces. She also discovers that she, herself, possesses a deadly ability.
The funny thing about this letter is that it was written by her.
Myfanwy must discreetly track down the agent that is/was set on ending her, whilst maintaining the farce that she is the same person she was before amnesia.
I absolutely loved this book and desperately need to finish the series. Daniel O’Malley is an incredible writer; everything was succinct and well-planned. The plot was detailed, perfectly explaining the world he created whilst weaving in some mystery.
It can be common for male writers to unintentionally (or intentionally) sexualize female characters, there is none of this in The Rook. Myfanwy is a multifaceted and humorous character that I really enjoyed reading about/ from the POV of. The unique and diverse range of characters was refreshing, and the world-building was incredible.
I would recommend this to anyone and everyone, I was originally a bit sceptical as it is different from my usual read, but I am so glad I read it.
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The Binding
By Bridget Collins
Released 2019, 438 Pages.
Working in the fields, Emmett Farmer lives a simple life tending to his family’s farm. One day he is sent a letter offering him an apprenticeship as a Bookbinder – a vocation that is frowned upon within the town he resides. Due to unexpected circumstances his parents have no choice but to send their son to the feared Bookbinders shop.
Bookbinding is a professional that requires the most unlikely of skills, the ability to transfer and trap memories into a book. If Emmett does not learn this craft, it will cost him his sanity.
The books are discreetly hidden behind a vault, the key around the neck of his mentor. One day, he finds himself in the safe and makes the discovery that one of the books, has his name on it.
This is such an underrated book. I always see it at second-hand shops, therefore coming to the conclusion that it is bad. Boy was I wrong, and happy for it. The book is split into three parts, I admit that you have to push through the first half of part one, but once you do, you won’t regret it.
The character development, plot progression and writing are tremendous. The plot twists are superb, and the characters are layered and compelling. I unfortunately cannot say too much as to why I enjoyed it, because it would spoil key components.
I would definitely recommend this book if you like ‘practical fantasy’ but think anyone should read this, one of my unexpected five star reads of the year.
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The Song of Achilles
By Madeline Miller
Released 2011, 378 Pages.
Patroclus, son of King Menoetius, is exiled to the court of King Peleus due to unfortunate circumstances. Whilst Patroclus is awkward, scrawny and timid, Achilles son of King Peleus, is the perfect Prince who is admired by all who meets him. Achilles and Patroclus find friendship in their differences and form a strong bond, growing together and becoming young men skilled in the art of war – despite the objections and meddling of Thetis, the cruel Sea Goddess and Achilles mother.
Unexpectedly, it is reported that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped and must be rescued. Patroclus for fear of losing his beloved friend, follows Achilles to Troy. What was originally a straightforward plan turns into something much more, where all they hold dear will be tested.
This has to be one of my favourite books of all time, Miller’s writing is beautiful. I felt as though I was Patroclus and became really invested in what happened to him, as if we were one.
I cannot say too much, out of fear of spoiling it, but reading this was a magical experience, not to be cringe.
This book got me into Mythology which I am grateful for and opened me up to a whole new genre. Whilst it is under the category of ‘Fantasy’ it does not read like a Fantasy book.
I recommend everyone read this book, please !
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Honourable Mention
Crescent City
By Sarah J. Maas
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Bryce Quinlan had the perfect life-working hard all day and partying all night-until a demon murdered her closest friends, leaving her bereft, wounded, and alone. When the accused is behind bars but the crimes start up again, Bryce finds herself at the heart of the investigation. She’ll do whatever it takes to avenge their deaths.
Hunt Athalar is a notorious Fallen angel, now enslaved to the Archangels he once attempted to overthrow. His brutal skills and incredible strength have been set to one purpose-to assassinate his boss’s enemies, no questions asked. But with a demon wreaking havoc in the city, he’s offered an irresistible deal: help Bryce find the murderer, and his freedom will be within reach.
As Bryce and Hunt dig deep into Crescent City’s underbelly, they discover a dark power that threatens everything and everyone they hold dear, and they find, in each other, a blazing passion-one that could set them both free, if they’d only let it.
I loved this series. I would even argue that it is better than ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’, I cannot quite put my finger on why, I just loved the plot and everything that unfolded. I have a lot of critiques and know it is not everyone’s cup of tea, which is why it is not on the official list. Crescent city is a great read if you really want a relaxing but captivating story.
In a tranquil neighbourhood of Tokyo, seven teenagers wake to find their bedroom mirrors are shining.
At a single touch, they are pulled from their lonely lives into to a wondrous castle filled with winding stairways, watchful portraits and twinkling chandeliers. In this new sanctuary, they are confronted with a set of clues leading to a hidden room where one of them will be granted a wish. But there’s a catch: if they don’t leave by five o’clock, they will die.
If you struggled at school this is definitely for you.
Lonely Castle in the Mirror touches on the various reasons students avoid school whether it is bullying, anxiety, academic pressure or other commitments.
The bond created with the students is beautiful and proves that the most unlikely of pairs can relate in unexpected ways.
Tsujimura is able to create an atmosphere of understanding whether through personal experience or second-hand experience, which creates depth and connects the readers on another level.
The only critique would be that one of the characters stories seemed a little rushed and out of nowhere, but that could have been from me being slow and not linking things together.
In terms of recommending, I would be more inclined to recommend it to someone who is struggling/has struggled in school. Whilst anyone could read it, I think it is one of those books that make more of an impact if you can relate.
Click link below for Storygraph overview, which includes general rating, summary (same as above) and other reviews.
