[How it Works](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/how-it-works/) [Bookshop](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/books/bindery/) [Publishing](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/publishing/) [Team](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/team/) [Contact](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/contact/) Log in or Sign up Legendborn (The Legendborn Cycle) Tracy Deonn Save to Your Books [Bookshop](https://bookshop.org/book/9781534441613) [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1534441611) An Instant New York Times Bestseller! Winner of the Coretta Scott King—John Steptoe for New Talent Author Award. Filled with mystery and an intriguingly rich magic system, _Legendborn_ by Tracy Deonn’s YA contemporary fantasy reinvents the King Arthur legend and “braids together Southern folk traditions and Black Girl Magic into a searing modern tale of grief, power, and self-discovery” (Dhonielle Clayton, New York Times bestselling author of _The Belles_). After her mother dies in an accident, sixteen-year-old Bree Matthews wants nothing to do with her family memories or childhood home. A residential program for bright high schoolers at UNC–Chapel Hill seems like the perfect escape—until Bree witnesses a magical attack her very first night on campus. A flying demon feeding on human energies. A secret society of so-called “Legendborn” students that hunt the creatures down. And a mysterious teenage mage who calls himself a “Merlin” and who attempts—and fails—to wipe Bree’s memory of everything she saw. The mage’s failure unlocks Bree’s own unique magic and a buried memory with a hidden connection: the night her mother died, another Merlin was at the hospital. Now that Bree knows there’s more to her mother’s death than what’s on the police report, she’ll do whatever it takes to find out the truth, even if that means infiltrating the Legendborn as one of their initiates. She recruits Nick, a self-exiled Legendborn with his own grudge against the group, and their reluctant partnership pulls them deeper into the society’s secrets—and closer to each other. But when the Legendborn reveal themselves as the descendants of King Arthur’s knights and explain that a magical war is coming, Bree has to decide how far she’ll go for the truth and whether she should use her magic to take the society down—or join the fight. This paperback edition of _Legendborn_ contains a teaser to the thrilling sequel, _Bloodmarked_, as well as an exclusive short story from Selwyn Kane's perspective! Show more Get the Bindery app * * * Posts about this title from Scribe Tribe [Scribe Tribe\\ \\ Jahid\\ \\ • Feb 18 2025](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/) [My Top 10 Favorite Books Ever (Must-Read Recommendations!)](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/item/ra3obS4lFheMkNSSUquM/) Some books come and go, but these? These are some of the stories that made a permanent mark on my soul. I’ll never stop talking about these. These are some of my all-time favorite books, the ones that changed me, stayed with me, and made me a better reader. If you love compelling characters and gripping narratives, you'll love these recommendations. * * * 10 books 1 [Scribe Tribe\\ \\ Jahid\\ \\ • Aug 6 2024](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/) [Top 10 Books of 2022 👀](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/item/woRWpiUNSKvof6WqgRtb/) 00:00 Intro 03:06 Most Surprising Read of the Year 04:36 A Book I Thought I'd Love That I Didn't 06:11 A Book I Thought I'd Hate That I Loved 08:42 My Most Disappointing Read of the Year 11:20 My #10 Book of the Year 12:22 My #9 Book of the Year 13:50 My #8 Book of the Year 16:01 My #7 Book of the Year 17:40 My #6 Book of the Year 19:10 My #5 Book of the Year 20:24 My #4 Book of the Year 21:45 My #3 Book of the Year 23:21 My #2 Book of the Year 25:46 My #1 Book of the Year 27:48 Outro * * * 23 books [Scribe Tribe\\ \\ Jahid\\ \\ • Aug 6 2024](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/) [My Top 10 Books of 2022](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/item/n4owPgXuVr04S9gykPpZ/) * * * 12 books [Scribe Tribe\\ \\ Jahid\\ \\ • Aug 6 2024](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/) [Books I Devoured and Books I Nibbled At](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/item/hbmqyURwkao2FfSpIvi6/) * * * 10 books [Scribe Tribe\\ \\ Jahid\\ \\ • Aug 6 2024](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/) [Books I Bought For Their Covers](https://scribetribe.binderybooks.com/item/rVXUqDSraTZRY8HmpDJs/) * * * 12 books Posts about this book from across Bindery [Left Unread Books\\ \\ Michael LaBorn\\ \\ • Dec 26 2025](https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [Books For People Dealing With Grief](https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/item/A9WZnfaGFAVj4NCTfn18/) * * * 8 books 8 [2](https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/item/A9WZnfaGFAVj4NCTfn18/#comments) [Boundless Press\\ \\ Jananie\\ \\ • Nov 9 2025](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [what makes a good dark academia book? 🕯️🕰️ defining the genre and it's potential](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/item/Zh79EDmXlVyNnEttBbII/) let me know what your favourite dark academia books are! * * * 12 books 7 [1](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/item/Zh79EDmXlVyNnEttBbII/#comments) [The Skyy Life\\ \\ Erika\\ \\ • Oct 10 2025](https://theskyylife.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [The creator adult book fair was a DREAM!](https://theskyylife.binderybooks.com/item/njybydFPb8X5BtobDoF9/) The creator adult book fair was a DREAM! I was able to yell & yap (yap & yell) about my favorite books, authors, series, my favorite graphic novel, meet book besties IRL+ make new ones, debut @charmmeetcute, be on the panel for the first time EVERRRR 🥹 Special thanks to @fullcirclebookstore for hosting and letting me be apart of such an impactful and magical day! So grateful to be on the panel with genuine and inspirational creators — @seekingdystopia @thesmallestbookclub — and author Gwenna (momma cusses) with @the\_boozy\_baking\_bibliophile as the perfect moderator/influencer as well. So happy to have been able to do this with new found book besties and influencers who are definitely changing the game. I am glad we got to do this together — @thewindedbibliophile @jadedubya @\_novelreadswithbree @overbooked\_okc @bookishfangirlco @bubblegumbookshelf @reading.with.hotchocolate @preshreadsss #bookfair #bookishcommunity #blackbookstagram #bookrecs #booktok #bookstagram #booktuber #arcreader #diversebooks #diversereads #kindlecharms #bookishlove #bookworm #bookevent #okcbookstagrammer #books * * * 23 books 1 [Bookwyrm Ink\\ \\ Bookwyrm Ink\\ \\ • Oct 2 2025](https://azthiabookwyrm.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [71 Books I totally recommend. 📚In song!](https://azthiabookwyrm.binderybooks.com/item/cFFBpRuzVGt7K7eg3sTJ/) 71 Books I totally recommend. 📚In song! * * * 68 books 3 [Boundless Press\\ \\ Jananie\\ \\ • Sep 28 2025](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [the ultimate guide to fall book recs 🍂 30+ autumn books you need to read](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/item/0Nz7qa34y9GwgOYS9pXk/) let me know what books you'd recommend for the fall! * * * 34 books 15 [1](https://boundless.binderybooks.com/item/0Nz7qa34y9GwgOYS9pXk/#comments) [Beverly Books\\ \\ Kristian\\ \\ • Sep 11 2025](https://beverlybooks.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [Poll:\\ \\ Have You Visited?\\ \\ \\ \\ There's been a huge increase in the opening of romance bookstores. It makes sense. I've been to many indie bookstores that turn their nose up at romance, and therefore a voracious subset of readers. Friends To Lovers opened in 2024 and hit the ground running.\\ \\ So I'd heard of a romance bookstore opening in DC. _But_ they'd really popped up on my radar when I'd heard about the store burning three days after their grand opening. I felt so sorry for them and couldn't imagine how devastating that would be.\\ \\ They've since moved to a new location and it's _adorable._ If you love romance, or romance adjacent stories, you'll have to add this shop to your list.\\ \\ \\ \\ It was nice to see so many different sub-genres of romance along with plenty of diversity.\\ \\ \\ \\ Always appreciate seeing Beverly Jenkins. I hand sold her _Rebel_ to a reader who wanted historical romance, because she's one of the best. _Rebel_ is one of my favorites that she's written. Whenever I visit a bookstore, particularly if they have romance, I always check for her books.\\ \\ \\ \\ There were stickers and merch.\\ \\ \\ \\ I kept walking around, checking out the displays\\ \\ \\ \\ along with the cases of books.\\ \\ \\ \\ I loved the Stevie Nicks artwork behind the counter.\\ \\ \\ \\ Jelaina and I ended the visit with a picture of _me._\\ \\ [Friends To Lovers Bookstore](https://beverlybooks.binderybooks.com/item/5gkH6otllh1cBGRbmsfK/) * * * 3 books 1 [chronicallybookish\\ \\ Kaley\\ \\ • Sep 1 2025](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [if you like these books, let's be friends!](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/item/HBBjw4QaDGk0n8ryNC2u/) Sooo are we friends now?? #onthisday #favoritebooks #fantasybooks #romancebooks #bookfriends * * * 17 books [Bri's Book Nook\\ \\ Bri Le Fae\\ \\ • Aug 29 2025](https://brilefae.binderybooks.com/) Join for free ["To every Black reader who grew up looking for themselves on the fantasy shelves, this one's for you"\\ \\ -Analeigh Sbrana\\ \\ The moment Lore of the Wilds entered my life, I knew that I was in for something special. An unapologetically Black fantasy where we would delve into the importance of literature, history, as well as embracing your power. It changed my life and I was grateful when Analeigh reached out to gift me an arc copy of Lore of the Tides.\\ \\ The moment I read that quote, I felt tears in my eyes. \\ \\ It is no secret that Black creatives and readers have faced backlash within the fantasy space, often placed within narratives where they are delegated to the best friend, or the disposable Black girlfriend trope, or are written off in the space entirely by saying that we do not belong. Around 6% of traditionally published authors are Black and the number is even smaller within the fantasy space. \\ \\ And so, I will always advocate for Black books as well as my fellow Black fantasy creatives. \\ \\ **Summary**\\ \\ > **Lore Alemeyu wakes up to discover she’s on a ship in the middle of the ocean. Held prisoner and with no way to escape, she’s faced with a dire set of circumstances…**\\ > \\ > **A crew that’s distrustful of Lore’s magic capabilities…**\\ > \\ > **Her betrayal by a Fae she thought she could trust…**\\ > \\ > **A dangerous quest for the sun book, which, if placed in the wrong hands, will make the Alytherian Fae even more powerful.**\\ > \\ > **Lore must navigate threats on the ship and beyond, into the ocean’s magical and mysterious depths, in order to find the sun book herself and help free the humans. All the while, Lore can’t help but feel the intense pull of one Fae male who has been helping her all along. But is she willing to risk her human heart for creatures that have burned her in the past, and jeopardize her people’s future?**\\ \\ **Oppression and Disenfranchisment**\\ \\ This book, just like the first, speaks about disenfranchisement and oppression in a way that is a mirror of the current state of affairs. Lore act as a foil for the fae being a human that both wields and has a powerful bond with magic, she is a danger that must be wrought out. Of course, she is also the only one who wields Auroradel, the book of sunbeams, as she was the only one who could enter into the library in the first novel. Because of this, she is being used as a pawn in the search for the sister book, Deeping Lune. \\ \\ At every turn, Lore is being used by those in power for what she can do to benefit them. This is not unlike the many ways POC and specifically Black women are used by those in power. The backbone of society, the planner, the one that consoles, this is a role that has been placed on Black women and it truly became prevalent during slavery and only enhanced after. Given the tools to succeed and further their community but are constantly disenfranchised by both those who make the rules but also those who would be seen as an ally, Lore's struggles perfectly mirrors the experience of a Black woman in today's society. \\ \\ > Witch. It's what the guards and sailors had begun to call her. That or abomination. Desecration, Evil. They knew she was a human with magic, something that, in their opinions, shouldn't exist. It was just another fallacious reason for the fae to despise her, not for her deeds but for what she was. To them, she \[Lore\] wasn't just a lowly human; but a criminal. One who had committed the most heinous crimes: discovered a way to pull herself above her "station" by pilfering magic, a resource that should only belong to, well anyone else, they didn't care3 who, as long as it wasn't her kind that benefited from it.\\ \\ Whenever I think of the Black women and magic, I will always think of the Legendborn series by Tracy Deonn. Stay with me here. \\ \\ Bree is a Black woman who, although has an innate sense of magic within her, root, the moment she is given the magic of the oppressors, she is then seen as a tool and a body rather than a person with her own magic. And it is with that innate knowledge that she possess as well as her sense of community is the thing that keeps her grounded and makes her powerful. This is the same for Lore. \\ \\ This is also the Black woman experience. \\ \\ Seen as a problem solver for all and the backbone but also hyper-sexualized, demonized, and suffer at the hands of a brutal nation that sees for only what we can contribute to the system even at the risk of losing ourselves in the process. So long as it keeps the wheel of oppression turning.\\ \\ **Vengeance**\\ \\ Lore while on the Lavender Lark experiences hardships that fully cement her rage as well as fueling her need for vengeance. Truthfully, if she was to burn the world to the ground, she would be well within her right to do so, and I know Finn would help burn it down with her. \\ \\ The betrayal from Asher (Syrelle), being treated as lesser than by the guards, and nearly being thrown over the ship by the crew as they cut her body and label herself as a witch, we watch the devolving of Lore. Someone who cared for humanity in general, even found delight within the sunlight and hearing the sailor's song and stories, was now ready to drown everyone as they blamed her for a death that she did not cause. She realized in that moment that no matter what she did, she would never be seen as equal, just a pawn and a scapegoat. \\ \\ She wishes to right the wrongs done to her and her people by her own terms and means, seeking the power to protect and enact justice in order to move forward.\\ \\ **Books**\\ \\ Books and the seeking of knowledge was always a theme that was prevalent within the first novel, carved as we the reader learn that Lore loves books more than anything. It is important that she more than anyone had come to the power of Auroradel and it's knowledge because she saw the book not as a weapon first, but a tool that would aid in her and her people's journey to safety. Lore furthers this within this book by deepening the connection with Auroradel, further discovering her power as well as studying to learn more about the world around her and allow it to shape her, not the other way around. It is what makes Lore so adaptable and smart. She studies as well as never shys away from knowledge as she understands its importance. She finds reverence within the written word when so many would rather choose the sword. Even when she thinks herself as weak, she never stops trying and learning, and this will forever be her strength.\\ \\ **Final Thoughts**\\ \\ his book duology will always be my favorite, so I was coming into this second book with high expectations.\\ \\ This book, right out of the gate prepared me for magic.\\ \\ Last year, my world was encompassed by the world of Lore and this year, we are brought a duology that matched the first. We dive deeper within the magic of words and the power that they bring within speaking life and death into existence. We see Lore grow and thrive within hardships as well as exist within the resilience and joy that was between the margins.\\ \\ Reuniting with characters as well as being introduced to new ones that push the narrative forward and raises the stakes that were introduced within the predecessor. It was a sister book, a twin.\\ \\ This book was one that I never wanted to put down. This was one that I will never forget and will forever be imprinted in my heart, especially the themes and messages that are present within this current climate. Let it resonate within you and start a conversation.\\ \\ And, as a closer, I adore Finn.\\ \\ That is all!](https://brilefae.binderybooks.com/item/qqMB6yvRj8cMKgjFLRQJ/) [Fantasy Friday: Lore of the Tides](https://brilefae.binderybooks.com/item/qqMB6yvRj8cMKgjFLRQJ/) * * * 2 books 1 [chronicallybookish\\ \\ Kaley\\ \\ • Aug 11 2025](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [6-5-4-3-2-1 stars](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/item/AgpK2K23rBaGDwCDrEtB/) 6-5-4-3-2-1 Some books I’ve read in the last couple years that I rated 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 stars! It was SO hard to narrow down the 5 stars because there were sooooo many incredible books I wanted to include but I kept it to six—just know that it pained me greatly to do so. #bookstagram #books #sixstarbooks #fivestarbooks #fourstarbooks #threestarbooks #twostarbooks #onestarbooks #fantasybooks #fantasybookstagram #romancebooks #romancebookstagram * * * 31 books [Peppered Ink\\ \\ Mary\\ \\ • Aug 2 2025](https://marysmanybooks.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [I'm catching up, loves!](https://marysmanybooks.binderybooks.com/item/POBmz5mv6ZzkaGpX7i0s/) In which I make ALL KINDS of demon-like noises of irritation… 😅 * * * 11 books 3 [Discotopia \| Diverse Books\\ \\ Disco (he/they)\\ \\ • Jul 24 2025](https://discotopia.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [_Trigger warnings for mentions of grief and loss._\\ \\ Hi party people and disco dancers,\\ \\ A slightly different newsletter today. I lost my dear friend Piotr recently and I’ve been delving into all the things he loved, to celebrate his life and honour his memory.\\ \\ One of the things he loved was medieval history, reenactment, tournaments and chivalry. He was a huge fantasy and LOTR fan too.\\ \\ So it got me thinking, who are my favourite chivalrous, knightly characters in diverse books?\\ \\ Here are 3 that sprang to mind:\\ \\ **Nicholas in A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna.**\\ \\ \\ \\ In this gorgeous found family cosy fantasy, a witch who has lost her magic lives with a rag tag group of diverse misfits, including a young man who works at the local medieval fair, goes everywhere in full plate armour, and is incredibly honourable and protective of his chosen family.\\ \\ When I read this book initially I immediately thought of Piotr. A true knight who finds his people, who is not just accepted, but appreciated and loved for who he is and what he enjoys.\\ \\ **Garad in Blackheart Knights by Laure Eve**.\\ \\ \\ \\ In this futuristic Arthurian retelling, knights ride on motorbikes and fight in cages to settle disputes. Once such knight is King Arthur’s champion Garad, a non-binary fighter and the best in the land. Though they are only a side character, they totally captivated me. Their loyalty to the king and their little friend group was so well written.\\ \\ **Nick in the Legendborn series by Tracy Deonn**\\ \\ \\ \\ _MILD SPOILERS FOR LEGENDBORN, BLOODMARKED AND OATHBOUND_\\ \\ -\\ \\ -\\ \\ -\\ \\ -\\ \\ -\\ \\ -\\ \\ Look, I love both Nick AND Sel, okay? I’m team throuple all the way. What I love most about Nick is his sense of justice, his willingness to stand up for Bree, to recognise all the patriarchal bullshit and refuse to go along with things just because they’re tradition. He’s noble, and he honestly gets better as the books go on.\\ \\ And yes, Nick and Bree are a bit insta love and Sel is more fun in a way with his ‘whole dark brooding ocean of meloncholy, can pull off a long dark swishy coat without looking ridiculous’ _thing_, but I don’t care, they’re both great. Sometimes, the good guys really are good.\\ \\ My friend is all of these things and more, and I’m lucky to have known him.\\ \\ Be good to yourselves, and stand up for others. Chivalry is beautiful.\\ \\ Much love,\\ \\ Disco xxx\\ \\ Join for free or login](https://discotopia.binderybooks.com/item/HorbqsBpItyXlD6kxtKE/) [Noble Warriors and Non-Binary Knights](https://discotopia.binderybooks.com/item/HorbqsBpItyXlD6kxtKE/) * * * 3 books 2 [Bookwyrm Ink\\ \\ Bookwyrm Ink\\ \\ • Jun 22 2025](https://azthiabookwyrm.binderybooks.com/) Join for free \\ \\ Join for free or login](https://azthiabookwyrm.binderybooks.com/item/zcOxRYKwumZht2ZiUabB/) [Popular books worth the hype](https://azthiabookwyrm.binderybooks.com/item/zcOxRYKwumZht2ZiUabB/) I usually don't go for hyped up books on booktok or bookstagram. But here are some that definitely deserve attention. * * * 5 books [Reads with Rachel\\ \\ Rachel\\ \\ • May 31 2025](https://readswithrachel.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [new video I read YOUR BOOK REQUESTS](https://readswithrachel.binderybooks.com/item/nKtRUD5w7i1pInHOvT42/) Head to https://squarespace.com/readswithrachel to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using readswithrachel Reviews Are For Readers tshirt: https://www.etsy.com/shop/mythickingcreations/?etsrc=sdt SUPPORT THE CHANNEL: Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDybFQWoc9NC87xgTD61Zxg/join Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/readswithrachel Merch: https://www.bonfire.com/store/reads-with-rachel/ Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3ULISP5ME5YF1?ref\_=wl\_share CONTACT ME: Business inquiries please email me here: readswithrachel@thestation.io All other emails go to: readswithrachel@gmail.com SUPPORT THE EDUCATIONAL BOOKSHOP IN JERUSALEM: https://www.gofundme.com/f/jerusalems-educational-bookshop-emergency-appeal?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYg9lO3Duech8Jk64ISYxAbTR3bVyzVv15l3WvgOL6p0W8YmYtK1btC8as\_aem\_jDI-hXFRmsOaQBzhEc59vw Outro created by E.V.A. Support Roma children and youth in Ukraine: https://chuffed.org/project/support-roma-children-and-youth-in-ukraine Support Palestinian children: https://www.pcrf.net/ Support Democratic Republic of Congo during their humanitarian crisis: https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/what-we-do/where-we-work/democratic-republic-congo SUPPORT INDIA DURING THEIR COVID CRISIS: \*donation links\* -https://www.careindia.org/ -https://www.projecthope.org/ SUPPORT COLOMBIA: \*resources and info\* -https://mailchi.mp/cb922315dfc8/soscolombia BLACK LIVES MATTER. Resources: -Massive list of places and people to donate to: https://nymag.com/strategist/article/where-to-donate-for-black-lives-matter.htm -Find a protest or fundraiser near you: https://www.facebook.com/BlackLivesMatter/events/ \*Find literature to read\* Watch Vee Kativhu's video on recommending books to learn about racism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPX7nhpuJ3s -Support some Black youtubers by watching Myonna Reads' playlist of Black booktubers: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLz1aECHUN0DR2-8otiw5OzcpVK3W-lcIZ \*Support my channel\* -Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/readswithrachel -Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/readswithrachel -Use my link to get $10 off your first Instacart order: https://inst.cr/t/VTNrRWxoYmZ6 \*Follow me on socials\* TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@rachelwithreads INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/readswithrachel BLUESKY: https://bsky.app/profile/readswithrachel.bsky.social WEBSITE: WWW.READSWITHRACHEL.COM * * * 8 books 6 [2](https://readswithrachel.binderybooks.com/item/nKtRUD5w7i1pInHOvT42/#comments) [chronicallybookish\\ \\ Kaley\\ \\ • May 19 2025](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [How Similar Is Our Taste in Books?](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/item/Yc8p5CUEGozWzwYfff53/) How Similar Is Our Taste in Books? +10 points if you’ve read it +5 points if it’s on your TBR 500 possible points (including Finding Gene Kelly 😉) This is DEFINITELY a non-exhaustive list—there were so many I had to cut out because I didn’t want it to be 500 slides long. But I feel like this is a decent grasp of my tastes? I’ve absolutely been loving this trend and I had to participate, even if I’m a little bit late to the game (as usual lol) * * * 49 books [R&R Reads\\ \\ Ebony\\ \\ • May 18 2025](https://randrreads.binderybooks.com/) Join for free \\ \\ Join for free or login](https://randrreads.binderybooks.com/item/PzbSaHMBaMPwmcXN8c7P/) [✨🍃do our tastes in books align?](https://randrreads.binderybooks.com/item/PzbSaHMBaMPwmcXN8c7P/) ✨🍃do our tastes in books align? y’all are so quick with trends I gotta keep up😭 #romancebooks #fantasybooks #bookstagram * * * 24 books 1 [Tattooed Bibliophiles\\ \\ Zee\\ \\ • May 13 2025](https://tattooedbibliophile.binderybooks.com/) Join for free \\ \\ Before you scroll past thinking this is one of those _“sorry I haven’t posted”_ guilt-trip TikToks—pause. It’s not that. I promise. (Unless you _are_ mad at me… in which case… 😅 okay valid.)\\ \\ Here’s the deal: my serotonin has gone _poof_. My social feed is 97% longform political doomsday content and the rest is Aaron Parnas saying “BREAKING NEWS” in a deceptively calm voice about things that should be behind a trigger warning but are actually just real life. I didn’t take a break from caring (still calling my reps, still donating, still fighting), but I _did_ take a break from trying to make content when everything feels like it's on fire.\\ \\ But here’s what I _did_ do:\\ \\ I read. A lot.\\ \\ And not just for escapism—but for truth. For clarity. For change.\\ \\ Because once you’ve read enough “hot fae assassin” fantasy and "funny AI ship" sci-fi, you start craving stories that _say something._ Books that don’t just entertain, but provoke. That make you stop, whisper “holy sh\*t,” and stare at the ceiling for an hour, but you know, in a good way. \\ \\ So below, I’ve paired fiction and nonfiction reads by theme—books I kept on my shelves, because I want my kids to read them one day and feel their brains light up like mine did. Read one, read both, read what works for your style.\\ \\ Let’s go.\\ \\ - SYSTEMIC RACISM\\ \\ - Fiction\\ \\ - Legendborn by Tracy Deonn, an Arthurian YA fantasy that has those magic school vibes, and taught me what microagressions FEEL like. But you've probably already read that so I'll also recommend\\ \\ - Blood at the Root by LaDarrion Williams, a book about a 17 year old child who finds his roots after removing himself and his brother from abusive foster parents. This tells of an organization of magical black people who have remained cloistered to keep safe, and very much has those Wakanda vibes.\\ - Non-Fiction\\ \\ - Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates, written in the format of a letter to his son, Coates speaks in gorgeous prose about what it's like to be a black man in America. This book didn't tell me anything I didn't already know, but it connected those things with these little electric sentences that made me FEEL the neurons in my brain connect and go "PING" like a little light bulb. Coates is a genius of our generation.\\ \\ - Letter from Birmingham Jail by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I know, seems obvious, but I don't see people talking about it much. He's writing to people who disagree with his methods, speaking of his willingness to sit in a jail cell to forward civil rights. Only 54 pages. Required reading. Especially for white folks who quote MLK without context.\\ - IMMIGRATION\\ \\ - Fiction\\ \\ - Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz is a sci-fi book about robots trying to start their own noodle shop. It tells a story of a post civil war California where robots have been given rights, but only some, only the ones that benefit capitalism. And it shows how different people react to them having those few rights. It's a beautiful story about creating your own community after you've lost everything.\\ - Non-Fiction\\ \\ - They Called Us Enemy by George Takei is a graphic novel memoir of Takei's firsthand account of the detention centers Roosevelt imprisoned Japanese Americans in in 1942. I plan to read this and discuss it with my kids this summer.\\ - COLONIZATION\\ \\ - Fiction\\ \\ - Cry, Voidbringer by Elaine Ho is a story of oppression from 2 POV's, one is a little girl who has been kidnapped into slavery, and the other is an older character who has been working her way up the ranks to the side of the queen, and tries to fight oppression from within a broken system.\\ \\ - This Place: 150 Years Retold is an indigenous graphic novel anthology of dystopian stories about surviving a post-apocalyptic world since Contact. It comes with an accompanying teacher guide with lesson plans, so this one is another I plan to read and study with my kids this summer.\\ - NonFiction\\ \\ - Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States: A Graphic Interpretation by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz is, well, what it says it is. I've never been a huge nonfic fan so graphic novels are a great way for me to get some nonfic reading in. This is a book you need on your shelf!\\ - LGBTQIA+ EXPERIENCE\\ \\ - Fiction\\ \\ - No Gods, No Monsters by Cadwell Turnbull is a sci-fi/fantasy X-men type story about the coming out of monsters (vampires, werewolves, etc,) the world's reaction, and the monsters fight for human rights. It's multi-POV that works because you get to see so many perspectives. I cannot WAIT for my hold to come in from Libby for the sequel.\\ \\ - Hell Followed With Us by Andrew Joseph White is a dystopian horror about a group of fanatic Christians causing the apocalypse to bring about the second coming of Christ. And their chosen is of course a closeted gay kid. I'm not a body horror person, but this book is INSANELY good and my preteen who loves horror is going to freaking love it when he finally gets off his Fortnite and reads it.\\ - Nonfiction\\ \\ - A Little Queer Natural History by Josh L. Davis discusses biodiversity in nature and is essentially an entire book in response to the "male and female is basic biology" argument we sometimes hear from people with absolutely zero knowledge in the subject of biology. I love reading books that are a middle finger to bigots.\\ \\ - Before We Were Trans: A New History of Gender by Kit Heyam chronicles expressions of trans experience that are often left out of the historical record. Trans people exist and HAVE existed for all of human history, and it's important to acknowledge that.\\ - PRISON ABOLITION (a note: this may be a controversial topic for many, but I truly think that if people truly understood the prison abolition movement's goals, they would agree with them, and I think that if we solved this issue, many many other social issues would be solved as a result. If you don't agree, I beg you to read these books.)\\ \\ - Fiction\\ \\ - Chain-Gang All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah, I know, I know, I won't shut up about this one, but it's for good reason! Everyone is off reading Silver Elite because of it's purported (but I have on good authority unfounded) Hunger Games vibes, when Chain-Gang All-Stars has been published since 2023! Take prisons and make them privatized. Someone gets a brilliant idea to put it on reality TV (it's already been done, see 60 Days In) and make them fight each other to the death for sport. That's this book.\\ - Nonfiction\\ \\ - Abolitionist Intimacies by El Jones is written like an anthology, but by one person. Jones has been an advocate for years and tells the stories of people whom society has taken away their voice, taken away their humanity. This book doesn't discuss how to solve the problem, but I recommend starting here because to solve the problem, you first need to see prisoners as full human beings, and while you may think you already do, this will show you that no, you don't.\\ - DISABILITY\\ \\ - Fiction\\ \\ - Cinder by Marissa Meyer was assigned to my 7th grader for summer reading, so we listened to it together, and WOW! How did I sleep on this one? Cinder is a cyborg, a human who has had parts replaced and is considered now to be less than human because of it, including all of her rights being directed by her guardian, her stepmother. Not only did we get to discuss how society treats disabled people as less deserving of human rights, but we also got to see the Lunars, moon dwelling people who their society is hugely biased against, a great metaphor for xenophobia and racism. So many good topics in this book to discuss with your younger reader while still getting to enjoy a hella good book.\\ - Nonfiction\\ \\ - Grievers by adrienne marie brown is admittedly not quite nonfiction, but adrienne marie brown is a nonfiction writer who delved into dystopian literature to further our understanding of the pandemic and how it affected and will continue to affect the world. It delves into the socioeconomics and inherent racism of the pandemic in such an insightful way. It has a sequel, thank adreinne, because the first one destroyed me.\\ \\ For other recommendations sorted by social justice topic I highly recommend going to https://www.akpress.org/books.html an independent publishing house that specializes in radical books. \\ \\ What other subjects would you like recommendations for? Feel free to leave me some recs in the comments too! I love a good read that cracks a brain open. Let’s build a shelf full of them.](https://tattooedbibliophile.binderybooks.com/item/XAGHabsTOQHTD7phEAbk/) [UUUUGGGGGHHHHH and other lamentations: Fiction and Non-Fiction books on the same topics](https://tattooedbibliophile.binderybooks.com/item/XAGHabsTOQHTD7phEAbk/) * * * 17 books 2 [Peppered Ink\\ \\ Mary\\ \\ • May 8 2025](https://marysmanybooks.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [So it’s been a minute, but… 👀](https://marysmanybooks.binderybooks.com/item/xE96SHqkfoKdjkO2grMS/) So it’s been a minute, but… 👀 * * * 18 books 5 [2](https://marysmanybooks.binderybooks.com/item/xE96SHqkfoKdjkO2grMS/#comments) [Left Unread Books\\ \\ Michael LaBorn\\ \\ • May 5 2025](https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [Hey Large Creators, it's time to let go of Harry Potter](https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/item/mwqEmbNa0NtOohomvHcx/) I've seen so many large creators jumping on the Harry Potter train and I am begging y'all to find another ride. That one's broken. * * * 8 books 25 [2](https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/item/mwqEmbNa0NtOohomvHcx/#comments) [Discotopia \| Diverse Books\\ \\ Disco (he/they)\\ \\ • Apr 29 2025](https://discotopia.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [Welcome to Discotopia!](https://discotopia.binderybooks.com/item/5fap5QPOuvKoiAaRBdxB/) An introduction to my Bindery! Who I am, what members can expect from Discotopia, and a quick rundown of some of my favourite diverse books. * * * 8 books 8 [Bookwyrm Ink\\ \\ Bookwyrm Ink\\ \\ • Apr 23 2025](https://azthiabookwyrm.binderybooks.com/) Join for free \\ \\ Join for free or login](https://azthiabookwyrm.binderybooks.com/item/8yNx7AT6NeDwCQ9y7ykl/) [New to Fantasy? Here's a good place to start!](https://azthiabookwyrm.binderybooks.com/item/8yNx7AT6NeDwCQ9y7ykl/) Any books you would add to the list? 🤔📚 * * * 9 books 3 [Beverly Books\\ \\ Kristian\\ \\ • Apr 10 2025](https://beverlybooks.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [Legendborn by Tracy Deonn No Spoiler Review](https://beverlybooks.binderybooks.com/item/oSaQvp2uendqWDcrm8aP/) So this was one of my favorite books I read in 2020. King Arthur Legend +Black girl Magic? Absolutely. * * * 1 book [Cozy Quill\\ \\ Meg\\ \\ • Apr 9 2025](https://cozyquill.binderybooks.com/) Join for free \\ \\ Upgrade for $12 or login](https://cozyquill.binderybooks.com/item/5ZrL5UcWjAMHCi8PVXWA/) [April Cozy Catch-up](https://cozyquill.binderybooks.com/item/5ZrL5UcWjAMHCi8PVXWA/) A recap of our cozy catch-up this month! * * * 9 books 4 [Bri's Book Nook\\ \\ Bri Le Fae\\ \\ • Apr 4 2025](https://brilefae.binderybooks.com/) Join for free \\ \\ Join for free or login](https://brilefae.binderybooks.com/item/uCEe93c0OcVDrxUVnHfP/) [Ramble Reading Recs](https://brilefae.binderybooks.com/item/uCEe93c0OcVDrxUVnHfP/) Replying to @sarahbhartshorne I have wayyyyy more but I absolutely didn't want to ramble too much 🤣 #bookrecs #fantasy * * * 5 books 2 [2](https://brilefae.binderybooks.com/item/uCEe93c0OcVDrxUVnHfP/#comments) [chronicallybookish\\ \\ Kaley\\ \\ • Mar 25 2025](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/) Join for free \\ \\ Upgrade for $5 or login](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/item/C4QOHg4F8KUJniDnSG48/) [INNER CIRCLE EXCLUSIVE: The BEST and WORST Books I've Read Over the Last 5 Years](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/item/C4QOHg4F8KUJniDnSG48/) I thought it would be fun to peak back in time and look at my favorite and least favorite reads from every year since I first started tracking my reading--way back in 2020, when I was 17 years old. It's cool to see hoW my tastes have evolved over the years, and also the ways in which they are the same (whether it is YA or Adult, I've always been a fantasy & romance reader!) * * * 6 books 2 [Daph's Reads 📚✨\\ \\ Daphne\\ \\ • Mar 25 2025](https://daphsreads.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [Some recent book mail](https://daphsreads.binderybooks.com/item/AgVKS9N8vFjkQvPIuCvd/) Some recent book mail 🤍📚 #bookhaul #bookstagram #gifted * * * 6 books [Left Unread Books\\ \\ Michael LaBorn\\ \\ • Mar 24 2025](https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [Oathbound: Review and Giveaway of two signed copies!](https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/item/WLkqKXt5fZAEea9hRnpF/) Here is my spoiler-light review of Oathbound (I do not share any details of the events in the story but I am discussing the themes of the book) and a giveaway of two signed-copies! If you want to participate in the giveaway without the review, just skip to the bottom! Thanks! * * * 3 books 14 [19](https://leftunreadbooks.binderybooks.com/item/WLkqKXt5fZAEea9hRnpF/#comments) [chronicallybookish\\ \\ Kaley\\ \\ • Mar 21 2025](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [Oathbound Unboxing!!](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/item/XY65qWsDvAECQaMsQxHa/) The fact that I still have a final project to finish and I can’t just read it rn is a CRIME * * * 2 books [Written Reveries\\ \\ Krystal\\ \\ • Mar 21 2025](https://writtenreveries.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [Trans Rights Readathon 2025 Recs & TBR](https://writtenreveries.binderybooks.com/item/MMqHwbxBRNPhhXWqJW66/) Trans Rights Readathon 2025 Recs: A Psalm For the Wild Built & A Prayer for the Crown Shy by Becky Chambers Pet & Bitter by Akwaeke Emezi Light From Uncommon Stars Ryka Aoki Most Ardently by Gabe Cole Novoa The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas The Final Strife by Saara El-Arifi House of Frank by Kay Synclaire The Deep by Rivers Solomon Legendborn by Tracy Deonn The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse The Vanished Birds by Simon Jimenez TBR: Somadina by Akwaeke Emezi Model Home by Rivers Solomon She Who Became the Sun and He Who Drowned the World by Shelley Parker-Chan I Feed Her to the Beast and the Beast is Me by Jamison Shea Hammajang Luck by Makana Yamamoto The Unbroken by C. L. Clark #bookrecommendations #bookish #bookstagram * * * 21 books 4 [Peppered Ink\\ \\ Mary\\ \\ • Mar 18 2025](https://marysmanybooks.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [PHEW! The proposal for my Master's thesis is officially submitted — everyone please do me a big favor and cross all your fingers and toes that the feedback is nothing but positive... I beg you. \\ \\ In addition to being one step closer to finishing grad school, it also means I get a bit of a break until thesis research kicks off in earnest in May! (Don't worry. That, too, will involve lots and LOTS of reading.) Until then, I get to make a massive dent in my endless TBR and finally catch up with you lovely folks here! \\ \\ **So here is what's in the works.**\\ \\ **OATHBOUND** \\ \\ I am halfway through my Lengendborn reread (yes, I need to reread in order to feel fully immersed — it isn't that I've forgotten major elements; it's that it feels better to me!), and my aim is to be DONE with all three books by the time the Trans Rights Readathon kicks off on March 21st. Speaking of which... \\ \\ **TRANS RIGHTS READATHON** \\ \\ For anyone who may not know, this is a ten day lead-up to **Trans Rights Visibility Day on March 31st** that encourages readers to focus on books written by and/or featuring characters who are trans, nonbinary, 2Spirit, and gender-nonconforming. (And if you haven't already devoured _The Wicked Bargain_ by Gabe Cole Novoa, this is a _great_ time to do that.) \\ \\ More details can be found on their website: https://transrightsreadathon.carrd.co/ I'll also post here later this week with what I plan to read during those ten days! \\ \\ Methinks I'll need to whittle the list down a bit, but _Prince of Sorrows_ and _Dragonfall_ are definitely up there. \\ \\ **FUN LOCAL THINGS** \\ \\ There are two (TWO!!) new independent bookshops opening in my area within the next few weeks, and I am _elated_. I've slid into the DMs of both shop owners and had the loveliest of coffee dates with one. \\ \\ **The Book Market** is an adorable little book truck that will launch at Laudenbach Brewing on March 22nd from 4:00pm to 6:30pm. \\ \\ **NOVEL** is sharing space with a new plant shop (!!!) on William Street in Fredericksburg. Their grand opening is planned for Friday, April 4th at 3:00pm. \\ \\ If you happen to be in the area or even passing through at some point in the future, _please_ come support a couple of women-owned small businesses. Downtown Fredericksburg couldn't be more charming (just you wait until the farmer's market kicks back up again), and you will not be in want of great local business to patronize for eating, shopping, and other frivolities. \\ \\ **GIVEAWAYS** \\ \\ **Paid subscribers** (hi, lovelies!) are already automatically entered for March's box (it's _so_ good). The winner will be announced on **Saturday, March 29th**, and the goodies will be shipped that day! (I'll contact the winner privately for details.) \\ \\ Additionally, I would love to spread some joy in the form of a few reading journals I was _delighted_ to find recently and some sticker packs from my favorite local stationary shop! I'll be putting together **FOUR** of these to send out no later than **Wednesday, April 9th**. \\ \\ This one is for ALL subscribers (paid and free), and it's open to all NEW folks who subscribe within the next few weeks. If you have anyone in mind who would love a shiny new journal and some adorable stickers, spread the word! If you refer any new subscriber directly, **let me know in the comments here**, and you'll get an extra entry! \\ \\ And that is officially the longest newsletter I've done so far on Bindery. Thank you all for letting me yap a bit, and thank you _extra_ for your loving support! \\ \\ Join for free or login](https://marysmanybooks.binderybooks.com/item/jIu6vOYisabOTNQScuoL/) [Updates & Upcoming Goodness](https://marysmanybooks.binderybooks.com/item/jIu6vOYisabOTNQScuoL/) * * * 6 books 5 [chronicallybookish\\ \\ Kaley\\ \\ • Mar 17 2025](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/) Join for free [February Reading Wrap Up](https://chronicallybookish.binderybooks.com/item/hKz9oU5JTIG6XAF99kl2/) * * * 8 books