This Spring was full of growth— and not just with plants, animal population, and allergy medication. My "want to read" list grew exponentially. I cherry-picked some favorites I enjoyed this Spring, but it was an extremely difficult decision. There will most definitely be some honorable mentions in this list.
The first of these is King of Battle and Blood by Scarlett St. Clair
First of the Adrian x Isolde trilogy, King of Battle and Blood centers around a romance featuring Crown Princess Isolde. In a fantasy world filled with vampires, magic, and curses, Isolde's kingdom calls to end a years-long war by surrendering to the brutish conqueror, Adrian Vasiliev. In a sudden twist, Isolde is forced to marry Adrian, and tasked to kill him. Failing to do so, Adrian threatens that if she should attempt again, he will turn her into a vampire.
For lovers of dark fantasy, enemies to lovers, and spice, this book will keep you engrossed throughout. There are so many layers of storytelling that by the time you're finished, you'll be left reeling and craving more.
Next up, Three Mages and A Margarita by Annette Marie
I have to admit, Annette Marie is one of my favorite authors of all time. I will read everything she publishes. Her biggest strengths as a storyteller is the character development, the creativity, the humor, and the romance.
Three Mages and A Margarita is an urban fantasy featuring Tori, a broke human girl with a bad temper. She manages to land a job as a bartender, not realizing how in over her head she is. The characters in this book (and throughout the series) are compelling, humorous, and in many ways realistic. I loved watching them grow throughout these books and joining them in the adventures they'd get into.
Annette has created a wonderful, exciting web of interconnected series. Three Mages and A Margarita is the kickoff book to The Guild Codex Universe. Each story is unique and thrilling, and I love seeing how the action of a character in one series can affect another character in a different series. Seeing each perspective is so so fun.
Third, Daughter of No Worlds by Carissa Broadbent
This was my monthly book recommendation in May, but it undoubtedly deserves a spot in this post.
Daughter of No Worlds by Carissa Broadbent is the first in a thrilling trilogy. It's a fantasy with compelling characters and an amazing story. The heroine in this tale is Tisaanah, a former slave fighting for justice.
Each chapter is more interesting than the last, with stakes piling up one after another. The way it's written illustrates a unique and beautiful description of this world and its characters. I found myself getting lost in the intense imagery. The descriptions in this book make me feel as though I'm living it, breathing it, integrating it with my very soul. Let's just say, it didn't take me long to order the rest of the series.
Fourth, The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
I read this through the audiobook version and when I say I walked around with an air pod in until I finished it, I mean it. I could not put down this sweet, hilarious, and hot romance spun by Ali Hazelwood.
The Love Hypothesis features Olive, a sweet and intelligent people-pleasing scientist. For complicated reasons, only made more complex as this book progresses, Olive has the bright idea to kiss the first man she sees when put into a tight spot. Now, she's forced to keep the ruse going by entering an agreement with the kissee to pretend to date.
The characters are all so interesting and full of life. The pacing is perfect, and the story satisfies the reader throughout. I highly recommend this (and all of Ali Hazelwood's books) for those looking for a sweet and hilarious romance.
Lastly, Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Fourth Wing is a New York Times Bestseller, winner of the Goodreads Choice Award for the 2023 romantasy category, and won my heart.
Set in a war-riddled country, Violet Sorrengail is a 20-year-old scribe apprentice forced to join the Riders— the most revered (and deadly) section of the military. Violet is a cunning, intelligent, and strong-willed character that readers can really root for. I also LOVE this story's take on dragons. There are many different kinds, and it's shown through all sorts of features, such as coloring, tails, attitudes, dragon hierarchy, mates, magic, and more.
Also, kudos to the voice actress—Rebecca Soler—who did a phenomenal job with her reading. Her range was diverse, and the passion behind her words was palpable. I was most impressed with her ability to power her shouts with an electrifying boom. It added to the energy of the scenes, making you feel that much closer to the story.
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