
Book Reviews
The Shelf
House of Salt and Sorrows – Erin A. Craig
In her debut novel House of Salt and Sorrows, Erin A. Craig has put a dark twist on a classic gothic fairytale and infused it with rich oceanic mythology where goddesses and tricksters mingle with mortals.
Do Not Go Quietly – Jason Sizemore & Lesley Conner
Do Not Go Quietly, edited by Jason Sizemore and Lesley Conner, is centered around those who resist. Those who are fighting to be heard, fighting for justice, fighting for what is right. It's packed full of characters screaming, “Not today.”
A Curse So Dark and Lonely – Brigid Kemmerer
Brigid Kemmerer puts a refreshing spin on a tale that’s old as time. Gone is the rose in a jar, the bookish girl, the brooding and furry prince, and the self-absorbed asshat of a villain.
Monster Portraits – Sofia Samatar and Del Samatar
This hybrid short story collection is based on Sofia and Del Samatar's memories of growing up as Somali-American children during the 1980s. Each piece holds incredible depth, a deep sense of wonder, and emotional weight. And with each read there is always more to unpack.
Wicked Saints – Emily A. Duncan
Emily A. Duncan's Wicked Saints is monstrously magnetic. Readers won't be able to put this YA fantasy down.
Black Leopard, Read Wolf – Marlon James
Though similarities can be drawn to Game of Thrones, to describe the first installment of James’s Dark Star Trilogy as an African Game of Thrones doesn’t do it justice.
The Gilded Wolves – Roshani Chokshi
If Ocean's Eleven and The Night Circus had a child, and that child was opted for a movie, and that movie was directed by Chris Nolan, it still wouldn't be nearly as cool as The Gilded Wolves.
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein – Kiersten White
The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein dives into the psychological and emotional impact maneuvering an objectifying society can have on young women.