GoGoGo for GoGoPo!

Our newly bestickered GoGoPo stand is ready to GoGoGo! (I know. I'm ashamed of the pun.) GoGoPo is a range of very cool stationery at a great price; €2.50 each, or 3 pieces for €6. Get the kids ready for back to school without breaking the bank.

Review: A Boy and His Dog at the End of the World

A Boy and His Dog at the End of the World by C.A. Fletcher
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Griz's family live on an island in the Outer Hebrides, about a century after most humans have become infertile. They survive by fishing, farming and scavenging what they can from other islands and the mainland. Griz has never seen more than a handful of people.

But then a trader arrives, charms the whole family - and steals one of their dogs on the way out. Griz isn't going to stand for that. Dogs are family, after all. But the long journey over the mainland will turn the whole world upside down.


In one of those strange coincidences that often show up in publishing, this is the second book I've read recently featuring apocalypse by infertility. The Quiet at the End of the World is a quieter meditation on what being human means; this is much more action packed and covers a wider area, allowing us to see the effects a lack of humanity would have on the world more clearly. I loved the little comments here and there from Griz, wondering whether we found things strange and exciting or were just used to them - things like cars and music players.

None of the other characters really stood out for me, but they weren't the point of the book anyway. There was an excellent twist near the end, one that really took me by surprise. However, I didn't like the formatting; speech isn't marked out at all, no quotation marks or even dashes, and sometimes one character's dialogue runs straight on from another's so I had to go back and reread a couple of times to untangle it. It took me right out of the story every time; I've marked the book down a star for it. Luckily, Griz is alone for huge swathes of the story, so I was able to ignore it.

This story will stay with me for a long time.

Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


This isn't the best representation of the writing, but it's the section that has stayed with me the most.
It didn't make sense. He'd stolen her. But she wasn't on the boat. And she wasn't here. She'd have barked if she smelled me. I wondered if they'd done something terrible to her. Or had she jumped overboard and tried to swim home and drowned? Had I been so set on following the distant red sails all day that I'd missed a small and loyal dog's head in the waves as I passed it? Had she barked in relief as I got closer to her and then watched the Sweethope sail past, leaving her alone and bewildered on the wave waste as the cold took her?
All of those thoughts kept repeating in my head, images that got worse and more detailed every time they came around. And the more I tried not to think of her last moments, the closer I seemed to get to them. I could easily have missed a dog's barking in the sound of the wind. Jip could have missed her scent. As my head whirled round and round on it, I became more and more convinced. We had betrayed her. But me most of all.
It hurt like losing Joy all those years ago, worse really because that lose had not been my fault, and by the time Brand came back after what felt like an hour or more I had persuaded myself that she was dead and had died in the terrible way I had imagined.

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Review: William Shakespeare's Much Ado About Mean Girls

William Shakespeare's Much Ado About Mean Girls by Ian Doescher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a fantastically funny read. I didn't really like the William Shakespeare Star Wars books, I couldn't get into them, but here the style seemed to fit perfectly. My only regret is that I couldn't source the movie itself to watch; I think a readalong would have been amazing. Ah well, next time it's on!


REceiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.

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Review: The Princess and the Fangirl

The Princess and the Fangirl by Ashley Poston
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow, the need for fandom knowledge is strong with this one! I know that that's the whole point of this series, but I worry that it will turn away casual readers who may not be too sure what a kamahameha is. However, it shouldn't, as this is a sweet retelling of The Prince and the Pauper dressed up in cosplay. I loved the little references ... the ones I got, anyway, I'm sure I missed some ... and it was nice to return to the world of Starfield. (It did irritate me a little that absolutely everyone curses in Starfield's vernacular. How about a frack or a shazbot thrown in there for variety?)

A brilliant read I will definitely be recommending, and I hope there's plenty more to come in this series.


Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


I am the best parts of her, and part of the Amaras I pass in the crowd - the gender-bent one across the aisle, the ten-year-old one with glitter in her hair, the Black Nebula Federation Princess Amara come back from the grave. I'm a part of every Amara at the con, every Amara on the screen - just as the first Amara is a part of me.
And we don't die quietly.
There are stories that you tell and stories that tell things to you; stories that win awards and stories that win hearts. Sometimes the stories you want aren't the stories you need, and the ones you need are the ones you never thought you'd like.
Perhaps this is one of those stories.

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Review: The Boy Who Steals Houses

The Boy Who Steals Houses by C.G. Drews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sam has been let down by every adult in his life. None of them know, or are willing to learn, how to deal with Avery, Sam's autistic older brother. So Sam keeps them safe. He survives by breaking into empty houses when the owners are away. One day, sick with flu, he misjudges and finds himself in the middle of a large, rowdy family. Everyone assumes he's someone else's friend, and for a little while he feels safe and warm, as though this life - this crazy, chaotic life - can really be his.

Until his past catches up with him in the worst way possible.


I thought I was ready for this. I've read - wait, not read. What's the word? - destroyed. I've been destroyed by A Thousand Perfect Notes a few times now, so I thought I was ready to read this one. But nope. This book is heartbreaking in all the best ways. Poor Sam has everything taken from him again and again and again. Yes, he makes some stupid decisions, but he's fifteen and trying to protect a brother who, though no fault of his own, doesn't make it easy.

The characters are brilliant, the setting is fantastic, and I would love to meet these characters again. Perhaps with a cameo from the famous composer Beck? :D

A fantastic read.


Sammy nudges Avery with his elbow. 'Together?'

'You,' Avery whispers, 'and me. We.'

They burst across the roof in a howling run and spring off the edge, their mouths full of the moon and eyes full of stars.

Aunt Karen hollers at them.

They hit the trampoline and bounce high and the poor abused mat gives a wailling r-iiiiii-p

and they go straight through and hit the grass.

Idiots.

They smack together as they tumble through the split. Lightning sheets of agony jolt up Sammy's legs and he rolls, grabbing Avery's head before it slams into the ground. They tangle for a second in the uncut lawn. Chests heave. The trampoline waves torn threads in apology.

'Anything broken?' Sammy says. 'Because we kind of have to run right now.'

Avery moans and touches his cheek where he collided with Sammy's head. 'Your stupid skull broke me.'

'But worth it?'

Avery's lips are a fractured smile.

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Review: We Set the Dark on Fire

We Set the Dark on Fire by Tehlor Kay Mejia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read, a very clever imagining of a deeply divided culture. Dani is a great character, a girl doing her best to survive in a world almost designed to make sure she can't.

I do wish Mateo hadn't been so pantomime-villian evil - think what a great story it would have been if she hadn't been sure which side he was on! - but I enjoyed it very much and will look out for more in the series.


Receiving an ARC did not alter my review in any way.


It took Dani a moment to turn to stone this time. A hundred shades of a girl, he'd called her, and though she hadn't appreciated the delivery, he'd been right. Dani slid into her lies like second skins. It was part of survival. She had no doubt she could do what he was asking her to do. The only question was, what would she be setting into motion when she did?

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Review: We are Blood and Thunder

We are Blood and Thunder by Kesia Lupo
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Lena has grown up as a cryptling in Duke's Forest, tending to the revered dead and forbidden from venturing above ground. A pestilence has been attacking the town for several years, and the people fear magic. When a body Lena is tending moves, the brutish Justice has her flung from the city to be hunted down by his dogs.

As Lena is desperately trying to escape, Constance is trying to get in. Having fled the city years before, she's now returning, determined to find the source of the spell that holds Duke's Forest in its grip. Although they don't know it, these two women and their strange connection hold the future of Duke's Forest in their hands.


This is a good, but not great, story. I enjoyed it, but I feel like a lot of Lena's storyline was basically just passing time until Constance caught up. However, I didn't think that while I was reading, only when I got to the end and looked back. There was a twist that looked like it was going one way but then went the complete opposite way, which I appreciated. I'm not sure if this is a series; I thought my copy said 'trilogy' but when I looked again it didn't, but I'd gladly read more titles set in this world. It's an intriguing place and we've only just scratched the surface of it.

Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.

'He is not like us, Lena. He could never understand.'
'What?'
'We are not like other people,' Constance said softly, her glowing cane hovering over Lena's heart, ready to continue her work. 'Other people are flesh and bone and sinew, and they wander through life like cattle or sheep, aimless and happy. But we are different.' She smiled a hidden smile. 'We are blood and thunder.'

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Review: Music and Malice in Hurricane Town

Music and Malice in Hurricane Town by Alex Bell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

(Apologies in advance if I use any pejorative terms, please correct me and I will alter.)

Baton Noir is a city of magic, gods and spirits known as legba. Sadly, not all the magic is good or kind. Jude finds herself caught up in vengeance from beyond the grave when a cajou queen locks on to her, determined to see her plans carried out even after death. Unraveling it will take luck, strange allies - and maybe a little magic.


Alex Bell is the queen of horror stories. This is less bone chilling than Frozen Charlotte, more creepy than downright terrifying, but it's a fascinating world and Alex has clearly done her homework on Southern magic. There's a level of detail here that really creeped me out. I'm looking forward to reading more in this universe; there's a lot to unpick.

The romance story didn't do much for me, although I liked the male character in all other respects; I just thought the romance part was kind of tacked on. That's entirely like me when it comes to romance, though. I liked the characters, and a twist near the end took me by surprise, which I always love.

I'll be looking out for more in this series, I'm very eager to find out what happens next.


An hour or so after she'd laid down, she realised Beau was on the bed with her, curling his large body round her in a way that was strangely comforting.
"How did he get here?" Jude asked. "And how did he appear before, in the Ghost Station?"
He can sense where I am, and so where you are, Ivory said. He's never far away. And he can use the spirit world to travel around. It seems like he's taken a bit of a shine to you. In fact, he's been more affectionate to you than he was with me in recent years. She sighed. I suppose he never quite forgave me for killing Betty.
"But...then why didn't he appear at the Blue Lady?" Jude asked. "When you were murdered?"
The cajou queen was silent for a moment. Then, she said, (sic)"I'm not sure. Perhaps...perhaps he sensed that he wouldn't be able to do anything against a magical attack? It hardly matters now."
The snake tucked his flat head into the groove of Jude's shoulder and she felt the same glow of warmth as before, her fear lessened and so did the piercing pain in her finger. She ran her fingers slowly down the snake's smooth skin. With him there she suddenly felt safer and the thought of bats no longer troubled her.
"Thank you, Beau," she said.
The warmth from the snake glowed a little brighter and, soon afterwards, Jude fell asleep.

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Review: The Last 8

The Last 8 by Laura Pohl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Action packed and full of twists, this is an alien invasion story with a difference. No plucky bands of fighters finding that one weakness and saving the world; the only people left here are teenagers. I'll admit to some confusion about their ages; they're all described as high teens, but most of them should have been born less than fifteen years prior to the story for certain other elements to work. It's not a huge issue but it did take me out of the story a little.

I saw a couple of twists coming, but not the rest of them. The information says this is the first of a series and I'll be looking forward to reading more adventures with this group. I think it could be a great one.

Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


I'm taken aback by his question, because it's not like Brooklyn's or the others'. He really wants to know.
"Raised by my grandparents. I've only seen my mom in pictures."
"That must suck."
"Not so much. It's not like I can miss her." You can't miss something you never had.
He looks at me. "Do you ever wonder if...?"
I know where his thought are going. I've wondered this myself a couple of times in the last six months. If my mother were alive, would I recognize her? I don't even know if she was alive before the aliens landed. She came home one day with a baby in her arms and left during the night. No one ever heard from her again.
"It doesn't matter. She's not really my mother, you know? If she's out there, she's only a stranger." I pause. I don't pity myself. I don't pity my mother either. "And if she'd dead, I mourn for her like I mourn for the rest of humanity."
"And how's that?"
"A little. And sometimes not at all."
He nods, turning his gaze back to the horizon. And we just let ourselves stay there in silence, until we are engulfed in darkness.

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Review: Royal Rebel

Royal Rebel by Carina Axelsson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lily is the heir to the only queendom in the world, first in line to inherit its' throne. She's coming towards the age when she'll be involved more in the politics of ruling. Sadly, this cuts into her favourite secret hobby; filming fashion vlogs! She's just starting to become more popular. But how can she keep that part of her life secret, when every part of her life is under scrutiny?


A cute story for preteens. I liked Lily; she makes some silly decisions, but she is only thirteen and she has a good heart under it. This is the first in a series and I'll be looking forward to reading more of them when they publish.

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Review: The Secret Runners of New York

The Secret Runners of New York by Matthew Reilly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fantastic read. I read it in one go, I really wanted to find out what would happen. It's time travel that makes sense, which is rare in stories that try to explain things. He very effectively conveys the creepiness of an abandonded New York.

(The pedant in me is forced to point out that the girls can't be using gasoline in the twenty two years ahead future; gas is absolutely worhtless after, at the very best, five years.)

I did have a problem with the characters, though; with two exceptions, the rich kids were all horrible, sociopathic or stupid. I'm not sayng rich people can't have those problems, anyone can, but everyone in the group? Without anyone outside it seeming to know, apart from the professionals - who don't seem to be doing much about it? One of the exceptions outright stated it was because they were rich, so it comes off as more of a rant against rich people than anything else.

But the story itself was amazing, and really cleverly done. I'd definitely read more from this author or in this series if there were any. And I hope there are, because he left some threads dangling!


Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


"What do you mean, freaky?" Red asked.

Bo said, "What I mean is, it's still New York up there: the same Central Park, all the same buildings, but it's all been trashed and abandoned. The windows on all the skyscrapers are smashed; that Swedish Cottage has fallen apart. No power, no lights and no people-or at least, no-one besides our friend in the hoodie. It's like...anotherNew York...not ours. A parallel New York of some kind."

Red blinked. "A kind of parallel New York?"

At that moment, Misty stepped up to him, grabbed his left arm and with one quick movement, drew a single vertical mark on his inner wrist with a black permanent marker.

"Welcome to the club, Red. You just became a member of The Secret Runners of New York."

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World Book Day

In case you've been putting off redeeming your World Book Day token because the books are all the way upstairs, we're here for you. We have a stand just beside the main door with all the titles we have in stock. The tokens are only good to the end of this month! Don't miss out!

Review: Pretend She's Here

Pretend She's Here by Luanne Rice
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Emily has been grieving her best friend, dead for almost a year. Lizzie's family moved away just after her death, but she's not surprised to see them back a few days before the anniversary; naturally they'd want to visit Lizzie's grave. She accepts an invitation to go with them without thinking too much about it.

She wakes up in a replica of Lizzie's room, wearing Lizzie's clothes, hair styled and coloured like Lizzie. Lizzie's mother has decided that she needs a daughter, and since she can't have her own, her best friend will do. Kept under control by violence and threats, Emily must figure out how to stay true to herself when she's being told she's someone else.


What a great read! I really enjoyed this one, I couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. Emily was amazingly strong, and the ending was absolutely perfect. I'll be watching out for more from this author.

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New Titles

Poppy and Sam have come for a visit! Drop in and pick up some of these classic children's books and get your free plush mini duck while stocks last.

Review: The Quiet at the End of the World

The Quiet at the End of the World by Lauren James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I've been desperate to read this since I heard about it, and it stands up to all my expectations. Apocalypse and Dystopia are my favourite genre, I've read loads of them, and this is a really unique story. I loved the tone of it and the unfolding mystery that formed the main plot. Also, Mitch. Amazing guy. Also, the links to The Loneliest Girl in the Universe. Also...well, I could keep going for a while, but why waste everyone's time? Just read it. It's worth it.



"What difference does it even make, if we all die now instead of in a few decades?" I frown, my expression unseen against her side. "What are we all doing here, anyway? What are we achieving?"

Mum smooths out a section of my hair, before twisting it around her finger. "There's no finish line you need to cross to have lived a worthy life, Lowrie. You don't need to achieve anything, if you don't want to."

"But if we're the last..." I sigh.

"Don't worry about making your ancestors proud. You don't need to be perfect, just on the off chance you're the last of your kind. Life is whatever you want it to be. With whoever you want it to be with. Life is the people around you, the ones you love. You just need to be happy. That's all that matters."

I'm quiet for a moment, taking this in. "Are you happy?"

"I'm happier than I ever thought I'd be."

"What made you happy?"

"Having you."

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Review: Izzy + Tristan

Izzy + Tristan by Shannon Dunlap
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this one. I'm only vaguely familiar with Tristan and Iseult, but the story was brilliant on its own, if somewhat heartbreaking.The main four characters were very well done. A fantastic read and one I'll definitely recommend to people when it publishes.


I received a proof in exchange for an honest review.


The cold air nips at us as we circle the reservoir. In the distance, the reservoir's fountain shoots into the air, the powerful gush of it shattering on the wind as it falls. It's early enough that there are still dogged runners doing their laps around the water, and I get the abrupt urge to join them. I swallow my last bit of sandwich and take Izzy's elbow, pull her into a trot with me. She's reluctant at first, dragging me back to a walk, but I smile at her, coaxing without words. and she relents. We break into a slow jog. We go on like this for a minute maybe, our backpacks thumping against our hips, our breath coming harder. The fountain shifts shape as we round the curve of the reservoir. It is a feather, a mountain, an icy staircase, an arched doorway. Then Izzy speeds up, and then I speed up, and we run faster and faster, until we are passing people and out panting turns into laughter and everything but her face is a blur. We are leaving the world behind us. It is the two of us again, alone, and it is beautiful.

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Review: A Girl Called Shameless

A Girl Called Shameless by Laura Steven
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an amazing read. I didn't think Laura could top The Exact Opposite of Okay but this is fantastic. It touches on a lot of very deep issues and does them all lightly and without preaching. Izzy's friends are a mixture of genders, ethnicities and sexualities, and none of it ever feels like box ticking. Just brilliant. I would read twenty more novels set in this universe.

(Parents be aware, Izzy swears a lot. It all fits beautifully into her speech patterns and this book wouldn't be half as good as it is without it, but it is there. Also, given the subject matter, there is a lot of discussion of sex and bodies.)

I received a proof copy in exchange for an honest review.


My friends are awesome. They knew what I needed before I did.

When I finally emerge, like a butterfly from a cocoon [or something that makes me sound like less of a d***head], Ajita and Meg are working on a giant protest sign shaped like a pair of boobs. As I walk down the stairs the squeal girlishly and clap their hands together like performing monkeys. And I'll give it to them...I feel awesome.

What's more, I feel normal. Like a normal teenage girl, having a normal night in with her pals. Coloring our hair, gossiping about boys, watching TV. As great as all the Bitches Bite Back stuff is, and as passionately as I feel about it, just being a regular eighteen year old instead of an inadvertent political figure is super refreshing.

And it's selfish, so selfish, but part of me prays neither of them go away to college. Because if they do? I'll be left in this town alone, knowing the world is moving on without me.

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Review: The Waning Age

The Waning Age by S.E. Grove
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wasn't too sure about this one going in, and the first couple of chapters didn't help, but when this story got going, it really got going. I couldn't put it down after a certain point. The idea is intriguing, not one I've seen before, the characters are interesting, and things are wrapped up well, with just a couple of loose strands if the author ever wanted to return to this world. A fantastic read.


"You've kept me out of this every step of the way. I will only half believe it when you say it's to protect me. It's also because you don't want anyone interfering with your methods."
"It's both."
He plowed on like I hadn't spoken. "I know you think I'm useless in a fight, but not everything is about fighting. I'm coming with you."
I wanted to hug him and throw a shoe at him. I settled for a sigh. "Fine."
He stood, waiting.
"And I apologize for keeping you out."
He nodded. He swung his jacket over his shoulder. "Okay. Apology accepted. Let's go."

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Review: Outwalkers

Outwalkers by Fiona Shaw
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A scarily plausible, slightly future novel. I wasn't too fond of the format, using the dash instead of quotation marks - I found it difficult to tell when dialogue ended and narration kicked in. I enjoyed the story, though, it was interesting and had twists to keep me reading. I'll watch out for more by the same author.

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Blog tour: The God of All Small Boys

Hi and welcome to my first ever blog tour! I couldn't have chosen a better book for it; the wonderful God of All Small Boys by Joseph Lamb, set in WW1. Joseph was kind enough to answer a question for us about this fascinating book.


What makes Joe's book different to other WWI children's books out there?

I suppose the biggest difference between my book and others set during WWI is that mine only touches on the actual fighting which took place - and even that a little abstractly through a dream sequence, and the cinematic showing of The Battle of the Somme (which is available to watch online for free as it has been in the public domain for a long time - and was a valuable resource for research!)

It also focuses on the lives of the children who lived through the war; and includes events which impact upon the families left behind, as well as touching upon the way people thought in those days, living under the belief that war was in some way noble.

It also isn’t just based on the children all the time. Some of their parents play important roles in the story, as do people’s parents in the real world!



You can follow the rest of the blog tour for more insights and answers. The next stop is Roachies Reviews tomorrow. The book itself will be available from 14th February in all good bookshops.

Some summers were made for growing up...

Dundee, 1917. When his father goes to fight in the war, 11-year-
old James is sent to live with his mill-town relatives and his cousin, Billy. In this unfamiliar world of poverty, bullying, and uncertainty, James fights to be accepted and learns the true value of friendship and family.
‘The God of All Small Boys is the one who grows trees, with branches in just the right places, so we can climb right to the top. He invented  fireworks and dogs and sticks and horses and muddy puddles. And he lets us find secret places... like this!’ 


James and Billy are flung together when James' father goes to fight in 1917. Through initial misunderstandings, the boys come to like and respect each other, and with the help of The God of All Small Boys they will learn from each other and from those around them during one tumultuous year. Perfect for fans of Michael Morpurgo and John Boyne.

Review: Enchantée

Enchantée by Gita Trelease
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Richly imagined and so clearly written I was almost there. Gita has created a fascinating new world laid over the French Revolution, peopled with fantastic characters. I was riveted to the book, desperate to find out what was going to happen.

The actual Revolution didn't seem to affect much, although maybe the follow up will deal with that, and it did happen almost at the end of the novel to be fair. I can't wait to get back to this world and these characters again and find out what happens now. I'm sure Alain hasn't given up, for one!

I'm looking forward to handselling this title. I think it'll go very well.


I received a proof copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: Slayer

Slayer by Kiersten White
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I have to be honest, although it physically pains me to do so; this book is not as good as I hoped. Other readers may love it! I sincerely hope they do. It just fell straight into one of my least favourite tropes; the whole plot turns on people not telling each other things, even important things, even when telling each other those things would clear up misconceptions or make things more understandable. Tip to teenage guys; if you're trying to get a teenage girl somewhere safe from a danger she doesn't know about yet, don't just sling her over your shoulder and carry her into the forest while saying ominous things into your phone. Actually explain to her what you're doing. Especially if she's the Slayer; it'll spare you some broken ribs when she gets sick of it.

I'll keep reading this series, because I think there's a good story under there and I'd like to see what happens next. Hopefully the characters will be a bit more communicative next time.

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Review: Watch Us Rise

Watch Us Rise by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fantastic addition to this growing genre. It took me several chapters to remember which of our POV characters was which, but that's a common problem for me. I really enjoyed the story and it kept me thinking after I'd read it, which is always a good sign! I also liked that the authors didn't demonise anyone; the principal should have listened to the girls, but he was doing his job otherwise, the teachers were mostly nice, and even (view spoiler)[the mean girl came around when they talked things out properly. (hide spoiler)] This is going to go well, I think.

Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


"What happened?" I asked.
"Oh, nothing, we just pretty much got James and a few of the basketballs players to run up and down the bleachers while doing their sprints and drop statements in all the seats. It looks like it's been raining women's rights in the gym," Nadine says, clearly proud of herself.
"At one point, Namel was throwing up statements like it was cash money," Isaac says, smiling at us.
"And he also might have been singing some of the statements," Nadine finishes, and as if on cue, Namel and James walk down the hallway, Namel singing, "I resolve to raise my hand more. I resolve to answer questions more in algebra. I resolve to use my voice." He enters a falsetto on the last note, and we all start laughing. I see him tucking one of the statements into his pocket.
"What's that one say?" I ask, hanging back as they all continue down the hall practising their new songs.
"Ah, nothing. I just liked it." He hands it to me. It says: I resolve to ask for what I want. My voice should be valued and heard.
"Why do you like it?" I ask.
"I guess I'm just curious. What do you want?"

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Review: The Black Coats

The Black Coats by Colleen Oakes
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

There's nothing wrong with this book - it's exciting, it's a good plot, I wanted to know what was going to happen - but I wasn't desperate to find out, I was happy to wait until I got back to it. It's a perfectly good read, but not a breathless, staying up at night one.

I'll still recommend it to others, because I think it'll do well.


Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


There was still no word from Drew, so she took a deep breath and texted him everything she wanted to say. After Natalie's loss, she should have known better: the time to say important things was always now. I'm sorry for lying to you. You were right--about almost everything. Can we talk after the ceremony tomorrow? Then without thinking, she typed:

Drew Porter, I think I might love you, in spite of everything.

Thea sat back in her chair, anxiously waiting any response as the night grew long around her.

Finally it popped up:

See you tomorrow at graduation.

Thea let a small glimmer of hope pass through her. Maybe there was a chance that she wouldn't lose this, too. Still, before heading up for bed she triple-checked the locks and tucked a knife up her sleeve.

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Review: The Sisterhood

The Sisterhood by A.J. Grainger
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I'm always intrigued by a cult narrative. This isn't the best I've ever read, but it's pretty good. I liked the characters, I just felt we didn't spend long enough with the Sisterhood to understand how Moon could keep them under such tight control. It was a good read and I was eager to find out what would happen at the end and what the secret in Mella's past was. A good read overall.

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Review: The Star-spun Web

The Star-spun Web by Sinéad O'Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sinéad hits it out of the park with her second novel, a tale of world slipping, spiders – *a* spider, at least – and children who might be each other. Trust me, it all makes sense when you read it. And you definitely should read this one. Children will love it, and it introduces its central conceits very gently. They'll be learning as they read!

I'm very much looking forward to having this one in my hands, so that I can shove it into other peoples' hands.


Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


"They'd never leave me without saying anything, they'd never just go and not try to let me know they were all right. They'd never just forget me."

After a few minutes he lifted his face and sniffed, the ache in his chest so painful it felt like the air he was breathing had claws. "But Tess has proved one thing. Mum and Dad were right all this time. They knew this was possible, what Tess and me are doing." Moose turned, scampering up his sleeve until he came to rest on Thomas's shoulder. "I'll make sure their names aren't a laughing stock anymore. Whatever Tess needs, I'm going to help her - and then together we can figure out how to prove my parents were the best scientists the world has ever known."

He reached into his shirt pocket and took out a few crumbs of cheese. Moose crawled on to his outstretched palm to nibble them and Thomas felt his heart slow and the pain in his chest gradually lessen. "You were the best present they ever gave me," he whispered, running a gentle finger down Moose's back. The mouse responded by putting one tiny paw on Thomas's thumb and the boy smiled.

Finally Thomas blew out the candle and they lay down to sleep. High above the heads of the boy and his mouse, dashed across the face of the clear night sky, a web of stars was sparkling; in another world, in which the stars had been scattered in a different configuration across the heavens, a girl and her spider were dreaming of them.

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Review: Happy Girl Lucky

Happy Girl Lucky by Holly Smale
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A sweet, funny read and a great introduction to a new series. Hope is a fantastic protagonist, slightly naive but well meaning, funny and much smarter than she realizes. Her siblings were all interesting in their own ways. I'm looking forward to seeing what they get up to in future books. Roz was my favourite of the supporting cast. And I was fist pumping at a certain scene near the Hollywood sign!

Spoiler, highlight to view: [I was expecting a really dark family secret, with references to Hope forgetting something and a mention of five kids when Hope only has three siblings, but I think it must have meant the friend referred to early on.][I was expecting a really dark family secret, with references to Hope forgetting something and a mention of five kids when Hope only has three siblings, but I think it must have meant the friend referred to early on. (hide spoiler)]

I can't wait to see what happens to the Valentines next.


My brother pulls the kitchen door shut behind him.
"Is everything ok?" His voice is low. "I got cornered by my agent and by the time I escaped you'd disappeared. Did something happen? I swear if someone hurt you I'll-"
Pain flickers but I push it away.
"Not even a little bit," I say brightly, kissing my brother's cheek. "Everything happened just like it was supposed to. I just had to go right then, that's all. But thank you for letting me in, Max."
"As long as you're ok." Max studies my face. "I was thinking, Po, I'm free this morning. Do you want to...go shopping or whatever? Hand out together - Little Sis and Big Bro time? I could treat you. Get you out of the house for a change?"
My phone buzzes again. PS I literally cannot wait J xxx
"Hmm?" I smile distractedly, bouncing on my toes again. "Oh, I'm actually busy today. Sorry, Max."
Then I send Me neither. X
And it suddenly feels like I'm a movie star, lit by my very own spotlight.
Warm and bright and seen.

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Review: The Midnight Hour

The Midnight Hour by Benjamin Read
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fantastic start to what promises to be a brilliant new series. It does suffer a little, like an increasing number of books, from 'Hero has no idea what's going on and no one tells them' which can make a book hard to follow if it's all from the hero's point of view. But once Emily starts understanding what's happening, things pick up and it's non stop to the conclusion.

I hope this series runs for a long time. It deserves to, and there's plenty more stories of the Midnight Hour to be told.


I received a proof copy in exchange for an honest review.


She rocked there for a while, stiff with fright. What had just happened? Also, why was she starving? She added 'fear' to the long list of things that made her hungry, and tugged her bag open to root around for an emergency sandwich.
'OW!' She yanked her hand back out and sucked the end of her finger. Something sharp had stuck straight up under the nail. 'What the heck?' She peered in the bag, muffling a scream when something moved inside. There was a shuffling and a grunting noise, and then a small black nose appeared, follow by a brown, sleepy face.
'Hog! What are you doing in there? You're very naughty."
She cupped her palm and his small-footed weight filled her hand with warmth. She held him up, grinning, and cooing over him. The old lady on the other side f the aisle was not as pleased. She got up and moved away, giving them both a filthy look. Who cared? Look what a nice nose her spiky stowaway had.
'Something very scary just happened, Hoggins. I'm glad you're here." The Hog did not respond, but wriggled with pleasure at the nose rub.
She squeezed him (not too tight) and he tucked in under her chin. The street lamps and headlights streamed by as the bus took them into the city.
'Wait, have you been eating my sandwiches, you little git?'

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Review: A Curse So Dark and Lonely

A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beauty and the Beast is intrinsically a difficult story. At its core, no matter how it's dressed up, it's about a monster forcing a young girl to live with him. That's partly why I love the retellings; I love seeing the ways different authors come up with to get around that problem. This version is now my favourite. Brigid has dealt perfectly with all the worst parts of the original story and left a beautiful fantasy in its place.

I'm very much looking forward to reading the follow up; although this could stand alone, there are strands left untouched and I'd love to read more. Maybe even more than one, Brigid? :D

(There's one spot where a single paragraph of Harper's POV sits in the middle of Rhen's section, which did throw me a little.)



Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.



"Your Highness, if I may ask..."

Rhen finally looks away. "You may."

"Do you fear providing enchanted food to your people?"

"I fear not feeding them more."

My heart flutters, just the tiniest bit, and I have to remind myself that he does nothing without intention, that all of this is part of a plan. A means to an end. A good end, that will help his people, but a calculated effect nonetheless. He's playing a role. Just like I am.

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Review: The Dreamers

The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shades of Stephen King, in both the lyrical descriptions and many interweaving characters, in this novel about a strange plague hitting a small town. I was riveted, following along as they try ... and many ultimately fail ... to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy. It's always fascinating seeing how different people react to situations like this and I didn't see anything that rang false to me; all the reactions seemed very probable. I'll be watching out for more novels by this author as I think there are many successful novels to come for her.


Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


The first cemetery, long since closed to new arrivals, is packed with the dead of the Spanish flu. Some say their ghosts still roam the mansions on Catalina Street, now shabby and subdivided for students. The people of Santa Lora had known it was coming, that flu. They'd heard word of it traveling west from town to town. They tried to block the one road into town, but the sickness got in anyway, and then it spread through the town like news. Twice as many people died of that flu here as in the next town over, leading some to suspect, back then, that Santa Lora was cursed.
The idea still sometimes surfaces in certain superstitious minds. Whenever a teenager drowns in the lake or a hiker goes missing in the woods, some in Santa Lora wonder if this is a land destined for catastrophe. What if misfortune can be drawn to a place, like lightning to a rod?

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Review: Fir

Fir by Sharon Gosling
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Why do the Red Eye books insist on making me afraid of everyday things? Dolls in Frozen Charlotte and Charlotte Says, exams in Sleepless and now snow! Between this and Whiteout I'll be lucky if I get any sleep in the snow storms predicted for the end of this month. At least my house is not built on ancient forest ground. I hope.

I do wish I knew what happened at the end, but c'est la vie.

I'm definitely on board to read more Red Eye. I mean, I can still sleep some nights right now, so...

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Review: Paper Avalanche

Paper Avalanche by Lisa Williamson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an amazing, heartbreaking book. Ro's pain and frustration are palpable, and while it makes her unlikeable in spots it never makes her less than understandable. I have no idea how she dealt with things for as long as she did. She's a hero in my eyes.

I'll be recommending this to everyone I can and putting Lisa Williamson on my must read list. Fantastic.

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Review: Help Me: One Woman’s Quest to Find Out if Self-Help Really Can Change Your Life

Help Me: One Woman’s Quest to Find Out if Self-Help Really Can Change Your Life by Marianne Power
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fun, slightly cringey in spots read. A lot of reviewers are saying that they were inspired to change their lives after reading it, but I wasn't. It's a good read and I like some of the insights, but the rest of it's not for me. I guess I'm not really a self-help kind of person. I'm in awe of Marianne's honesty and openness, though; it must have been a very tough book to write.

A good read, not life changing but certainly enjoyable.

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Review: Evermore

Evermore by Sara Holland
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

There was a moment during this read where I was convinced I'd get to the end and find a 'to be continued' sign. I couldn't see how things could be wrapped up. In the end, I discovered they could be, not very satisfactorily. Nothing happened for a very long time, then everything happened, then the book ended. It was really just frustrating to read.

It's not an awful read, but Everless was so good in the end I expected more from this.

Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


I realise Liam is still holding my hand. He brushes his thumb against my palm, so lightly that I'm not sure if I'm imagining the warmth brush against my skin.
My throat tightens. Inside the safety of these walls, I feel plucked out of time ... far from Caro's reach, invisible to everyone in Sempera but Liam, standing in front of me. Suddenly and all at once, I want to pull him in.

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Review: This Lie Will Kill You

This Lie Will Kill You by Chelsea Pitcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another entry in the growing 'teen mystery' genre. This is reminiscent of Christopher Pike's Weekend; a group of teens all played a part in hurting another, and are now being made to confess after being lured to a party. It's a simple story, with several twists, some of which I saw coming and some I didn't. It's hard to strike a balance between 'boring flashbacks', 'too much information in the wrong order' and 'destroyed all the tension' but Chelsea has managed it. Some things still weren't quite clear to me at the end, but nothing that affected the storyline badly.

A good, tense read.

Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.

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Review: The Compleat Ankh-Morpork

The Compleat Ankh-Morpork by Terry Pratchett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A hilarious guide to Ankh-Morpork and its' many wonders and delights. This is not a book for a PTerry newbie, but established fans will adore reading through the ads and articles and poring over the map to find all their favourite spots. Just remember to pay your Guild fees and don't go into the Shades alone!

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Review: Noel Streatfeild's Christmas Stories

Noel Streatfeild's Christmas Stories by Noel Streatfeild
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A beautiful set of short stories by Noel Streatfeild, all set around or featuring Christmas in one way or another. Like most of Noel's stories, dancing and theatre feature heavily. These are quite oldfashioned stories now, but that only adds to their charm. This is a fantastic collection for children of 8 to 11.

But the case was not back in half an hour, nor was it back by dinner time on Christmas Day, though it was not for want of trying. The police promised to let the Wards know the moment there was news. Jock's Scoutmaster rang other Scoutmasters, and they rang the guides, and the guides rang Brown Owls, until finally there did not seem to be a street within miles of South Kensington where someone was not asking 'Do you know a little girl called Emily whose grandfather is staying with her for Christmas, whose birthday is in December?'
It was, of course, a miserable Christmas for the Wards.

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Christmas Opening Hours

Our Christmas opening hours, lovely customers!

Fri 21: 8.30am to 8pm 

Sat 22: 9am to 6pm 

Sun 23: 10am to 6pm

Mon 24: 8.30am to 4.30pm


We reopen Thursday 27, 10am to 6pm. 

Friday, Saturday, Sunday all normal; 

Mon 31, 8.30am to 5pm.

We're closed Tuesday 1st and back to normal after that! We hope to see plenty of you over Christmas week.

Review: Ogre Enchanted

Ogre Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I never thought thought I'd be back in the world of Frell, but here it is, and it's every bit as magic as it was in Ella. Evie is just as fascinating a character, Lucinda still as annoying, and I loved slowly figuring out the connections between this story and Ella - although this one stands completely alone, so you can read it without knowing anything about Ella. A fantastic read, and I hope to return to Frell again another time.

Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.

I wouldn't endanger anyone else in this quest. I'd go alone. If I succeeded, I'd be welcome anywhere, at least for a while, even as an ogre. I could live at home again and wouldn't have to eternally miss Mother and Wormy.

When I rejoined humanity, I might save someone whose gratitude would progress to love. Then, if I could set aside the memory of Master Peter, I might return the feeling, because saving someone's life was almost as good as drinking a love potion.

Yes! I would go to the dragons' Spires. If I died trying to get purpline, my end would sadden only two people, neither of them myself.

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Review: Of Blood and Bone

Of Blood and Bone by Nora Roberts
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The middle book of a trilogy is always a bit strange. This one skims over most of the ten years since the end of the previous book, reintroducing us to a few main players from last time and the new characters of this one. I did find it a challenge to remember who a few of the characters were, although that's probably more about me than about Roberts' skill.

A few moments jarred me, such as Fallon being on the end of three angry kisses from two different guys, and her calling her uncle's woman a whore. On the whole, though, this was an enjoyable read, tense in spots, and I'm very much looking forward to reading the final title in a year's time.


I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.


She learned of a world that had existed before her birth. A world crowded with people, a world of huge cities with towing buildings where people had lived and worked. In that world people had traveled routinely by air and sea and road and track. Some had even traveled into space, and to the moon that hung in the sky.

Her mother had lived in a great city, in the City of New York. Fallon knew from the stories told, from the books she devoured, it had been a place full of people and noise and light.

A wonder of a place to get, one she viewed to see someday.

She imagined it often at night when she lay awake watching the fairies dance outside her window.

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Review: The Missing Barbegazi

The Missing Barbegazi by H.S. Norup
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fantastic adventure story set deep in the snowy mountains. The skiing terminology threw me at first; I figured most of it out from context, but it was quite unfamiliar to me. It didn't really matter, anyway, because I got swept up in the adventure story. This is a fascinating story of a young girl meeting the Yeti like creature her grandfather was scorned for believing in. I hope it's going to be a series, as a couple of minor story threads are left at the end, but if not it works fine on its own. A great read for Christmas.


I received a proof copy in exchange for an honest review.

He uncovered the sky-blue carrier and snaked his way backwards through the tunnel, keeping a solid grip on the handles of the sack.

Back inside, he whistled triumphantly.

"It brought the berry gift!" Bowing, with a flourishing movement of his hand, he split the carrier open with one of his sharp claws. Clear, see-through bags tumbled out, revealing the abundance of berries.

Maman looked in wonder at the growing mountain of wild strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries. There were even some of the large cultivated strawberries that Gawion loved.

"Nourishment," she said. "We are saved." The desperate gleam in her eyes made Gawion wonder just how close to starvation they'd come.

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Review: An Absolutely Remarkable Thing

An Absolutely Remarkable Thing by Hank Green
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a fantastic read. An alien invasion, maybe, designed to make all of humanity work together. (With a horrible cliffhanger, it has to be said.) The plot was fabulous, keeping just the right level of tension, and April May was the perfect combination of insightful and thick as a brick, depending on the subject. I'm desperate for the next book, I want to know what happened to everyone and where they all are now.

This book also plays really well with current levels of social media. In ten years it'll probably be quaint, but right now it's just right. Really good insight.

A brilliant book over all. And don't worry, sci fi phobes, it's not really about the alien at all.


Of course, I immediately had the Dream again. And again, I didn't think much of it at the time.
You might think it's weird that Andy and I hadn't figured out the Dream yet, but it was a pretty boring dream and, in general, talking about even interesting dreams to other people is dull as hell. I try not to do it under any circumstances because of how much I hate it when other people do it to me. And besides, Andy and I probably had said a total of four words to each other that day.
I did talk a bit more with Robin, but Robin had not slept yet. And so, though he almost definitely had the Dream in his head by this point, he had no way of knowing that. He'd know soon enough, as would at least half of the people on that airplane and a number of others I interacted with at the airport.
You can go ahead and add that to my list of accomplishments;
April May, former pet detective, dairy supply heiress, initiator of First Contact with space aliens, video blogger, and patient zero for the world's first and only know infectious dream.

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Review: How Winston Delivered Christmas: An Advent story in twenty-four-and-a-half chapters

How Winston Delivered Christmas: An Advent story in twenty-four-and-a-half chapters by Alex T. Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Winston is a very clever little mouse. He knows about Christmas and Santa, so when he finds an undelivered letter on Christmas Eve, he knows there's only one thing to do. After all, everyone deserves to feel special at Christmas...

This beautiful book is divided into 24 chapters, one for each day of December, interspersed with activities, games and decorations. It's a very clever idea and I expect it will become a Christmas tradition in a lot of households. Poor Winston and his struggles will make for a fantastic read.

(And I very much hope he gets to meet up with his friends again!)



As (Winston) looked around he spotted a curious object set up nearby. It was a large toy building a bit like a doll's house but it looked more like a barn or a stable. Inside several statues were standing on a bed of clean, sweet-smelling straw. There was a woman in blue and several men. Some were dressed in fancy clothes and others were dressed like farmers and there were even some pretend sheep standing beside them. Everyone was looking at a tiny wooden box in the middle. It was filled with straw and inside, fast asleep, was a tiny model baby.
That does look like a nice place to have a sleep, Winston thought, and he yawned. Perhaps it wouldn't hurt if he just had the tiniest of naps there beside the baby? But as he began clambering into the scene the choir finished singing and the congregation clapped. The sudden noise made Winston stop sharply in his tracks. He waggled his whiskers.
'Winston!' he said sternly to himself. 'Fancy thinking about having a nap when you haven't finished your Important Job!' And with a flick of his tail, he forced himself to pad down the aisle and back out into the cold night. He thought about the little baby asleep in the wooden box full of straw and promised himself that, as it was Christmas, he would come back when the letter was delivered and have a nap in that nice peaceful building while candles flickers warmly around him.

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Review: Through the Water Curtain and other Tales from Around the World

Through the Water Curtain and other Tales from Around the World by Cornelia Funke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read a lot of folk and fairy tales. I know a lot of them. This is a fantastic collection of lesser known folk tales. I knew (versions of) three of these, but they were all very enjoyable. Cornelia Funke's musing on each title are thought provoking, but not too deep for young children. The compact size and lovely illustrations will make it a great gift this Christmas. A fantastic addition to Pushkin's collection.


Back home the old father sat in the choom with his youngest daughter, waiting in vain for the storm to abate. But the blizzard redoubled its force, and it seemed the camp would be blown away at any minute.

"My daughters did not heed my words," the old man reflected, sadly. "They have angered Kotura even more. Go to him, my last daughter, though it breaks my heart to part with you; but you alone can save our clan from certain doom."

Youngest daughter left the camp, turned her face into the north wind and pushed the sled before her.

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Review: Wundersmith: The Calling of Morrigan Crow

Wundersmith: The Calling of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There's a trend in fantasy books. Maybe it's always been there and I'm only noticing it now, or maybe it is getting more popular. The trend is to drop the heroine - or hero, but it's usually a heroine - into the middle of a situation they know nothing about, and have everyone refuse to explain anything to them for whatever reason. I understand this is meant to hook people in and make them want to know what's happening, and sometimes it works really well! David Eddings' Pawn of Prophecy did it almost perfectly. This book - not so much, sadly.

But once I got past that point and Morrigan started actually being told things, this was a good read, full of interest and excitment. I loved picturing the school and Nevermore - the living map may be my favourite thing in a long time. I'll read the next one, because hopefully now we're past the explanation-y bits.

(Am I the only one who kept picturing Jupiter as Skulduggery Pleasant? Just me? Ok. ::slinks away::)


I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: The Light Between Worlds

The Light Between Worlds by Laura E. Weymouth
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A sweet little story, not quite what I was expecting but still beautiful in its way. Perhaps deliberately, it evokes the most famous portal story of them all, and the comparisons are good. This story stands up to CS Lewis, and that's a high bar to reach.

There were a couple of things that threw me - Ev talks about being crowded in her brother's car because of her luggage, then later in the same holiday explains how she has barely any luggage because most of it's still at school; Philippa tells Jack "No one bothers with Philippa, they call me Philippa." Apart from those, though, it's a lovely meditation on love and lose and home, wherever that may be. A fantastic read.

(It is a little strange that Jamie isn't mentioned in any of the promo material, though!)

Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


Philippa takes a step away. She's quiet for a while before answering, and when she speaks, her voice is colorless. "Even if you can't promise to keep Evie safe, I did.So I suppose it'll be up to me as always, to look after her and to get her home. If that means helping to hold off your war until you're ready, then so be it."
Cervus rests his head on her shoulder, and at last she turns, throwing her arms around his neck, and burying her face in that ruff of rust-red fur. I creep away, knowing she's said things she won't want me to overhear.

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Review: Rejoice, A Knife to the Heart

Rejoice, A Knife to the Heart by Steven Erikson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A unique look at First Contact. I've never seen a book, movie or TV show handle it in quite this way. I liked seeing all the different points of view, although like other reviews I thought there were a lot of people to keep track of.

I enjoyed this book and I'll happily read more in the series, because like many books nowadays it ended on an awful cliffhanger!


Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


"Imagination is like a muscle. It requires exercise. Stay trapped in this world with all its mundane necessities, and it won't be long before your imagination - the gift you were given in your childhood - atrophies, and when that happens, why, you've lost something precious that even nostalgia won't bring back to you, no matter how much you long for what was. With the death of your imagination, you lose wonder. But you need wonder. You need it to stay sane, and you need it to keep your heart from turning into stone."

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Review: Villain

Villain by Michael Grant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another breathless, gory adventure story from Michael Grant. I'm half enjoying, half terrified to keep reading this series; every time I think the stakes can't possibly get any higher, I'm proved wrong. The Battle of Las Vegas is horrifying in every sense of the word.

I'm in awe of the way Michael can sow in hints early on, throw away moments that later become very important. It takes real skill and I'm looking forward to seeing how everything pans out in a year.

I've taken a star off, though, because it's been a year since I read Monster, which had a lot of characters and a lot happening, and it took me a while to remember who everyone was and what the connections between them were. A Previously On or recap would have been very much appreciated. This was a problem with the original series too, though, so I don't expect any progress on it.

I can't wait for the next book, but I also don't want this series to be over!

Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.


"I believe there's a reason for everything that happens, you know? Which means you were given this power for a reason." Saffron looked intently into his eyes. "Things like this don't just happen. This is part of some larger plan. You were meant to have this power, which means you were meant to use it."

Dillon nodded along, not quite convinced, and still half thinking he would just tell Saffron to strip off her robe and her bikini and... But his thoughts were not alone in his head; the Dark Watchers, his audience, were listening. And they were liking what they were hearing. He could sense their pleasure, their anticipation.
"Well...okay," Dillon said with a shrug. "How do we start?"
Saffron smiled. "Let's start with school and work outward."
Dillon winced. "You want me to be a superpowered Dylan Kebold? I'm not into killing people, I'm just trying to have a few laughs."
"Don't be silly, Dillon. You don't need dead bodies, you need living slaves. And, of course, one other thing."
"What?"
"A queen, Dillon," she said. "You need a queen."

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Review: Distortion

Distortion by Victor Dixen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The bad point first, just to get it out of the way; the quality of the translation has slipped a little in this book. In my review of the last one, I said I hadn't realised it was a translation until I'd finished reading. That's not true in this one, where everyone seems to have become quite formal suddenly, and some of the descriptions are strange.

But! Apart from that, this is a fabulous book. Tension remains high, characters are recognisable while still being allowed to grow, learn and change, and a few more characters are added to the roster. The technology all seems plausible to my sci-fi-fan mind, and I'm really looking forward to seeing where Victor takes our hapless contestants next. Roll on book three!

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