Not So Well Read | Academic Fantasy Book Recs!
Academic Fantasy Book Recs!
It’s no secret that I love academic fantasy books, so after finding Blood Over Bright Haven I couldn’t help but revisit some of my favorites in the genre.
Book Recommendations:
- Blood Over Bright Haven
- Immortal Dark (Finished)
We all know I’m forever in my vampire era—especially after seeing Nosferatu—and this is one of the most unique vampire books I’ve ever read. Immortal Dark marries dark academia with Ethiopian-inspired vampire lore. The characters, the magic system, and Uxlay University are so well thought-out and complex. Plus, this Romantasy is true enemies-to-lovers in a way that felt substantial but didn’t cross a line too far into bully romance. - The Sirens (Finished)
I adore Emilia Hart. Her debut novel, Weyward was one of my favorite debuts of the last few years, and this one was just as wonderful. A family mystery, siren lore, women protecting women, and history all wrapped into one. - Fagin the Thief (52%)
Similar to Emilia Hart, Allison Epstein is one of my favorite authors of the last few years. If you haven't read any of her books, I suggest starting with A Tip for the Hangman. - Elatsoe (22%)
I just started this one today! It’s our mostly fantasy book club pick for January, which is great because it’s a backlist pick that’s been on my TBR for years. I didn’t know this one had so much magic in it! I thought it was just Elatsoe, but there's vampires, fae, and all kinds of other creatures.
What I bought/shelved this week:
- A Sweet Sting of Salt
I’m sorry, but no one told me this was a sapphic retelling for the Selkie myth!!! - Beyond the Aching Door
This author did an excellent job with the marketing in this thread.
Weekly Wrap Up
- This week in the book world:
There were some great horror deals announced this week, including:- Donyae Coles (Midnight Rooms) announced two new horror novels: The Sunken, The Adored (historical horror) and What Kills You (gothic novel).
- Johnny Compton announced a new short story collection called Midnight Somewhere.
- Ruth McKell's Honey in Her Veins is a cottagecore fantasy romance set in Appalachia.
- Leanna Renee's Ravenfield Hall is pitched as "Rebecca, but written by the Bronte Sisters".
New Releases:
- A Sea of Unspoken Things by Adrienne Young (Adult, fiction)
- All the Water in the World by Eiren Caffall (Adult, dystopian)
- The Three Lives of Cate Kay by Kate Fagan (Adult, fiction).
Additional Thoughts:
In non-book news, my husband and I started playing It Takes Two on Xbox and it’s so fun! We have been cackling over this one and our many failed attempts at some puzzles and challenges.