April Reading Wrap Up

Until today I only used Goodreads to track my reading, but I’m always excited to read monthly wrap ups from other bloggers, so I thought, why not write one myself?

My reading is usually erratic, mostly because I’m a mood reader, so I don’t necessarily plan my reading. I make exceptions for book tours because I know I have a deadline for my review. Also, for the past four years, I was constantly working on a book. I always prioritized writing over reading. Because I’m also a mom and a wife, my reading time was quite limited. That changed when I discovered an app that reads books to me, effectively turning them into audiobooks. No, the voice, cadence, and intonation don’t compare to a real human narrator, but once I got used to it, I tune it out and get sucked into the story.

Did you know that NetGalley Shelf (the Android App) does the same? I get tons of ARCs from NetGalley, so that makes reading a breeze. I know some people don’t consider audiobooks reading. Fine! Technically, it’s listening—I don’t care how I absorb the stories as long as I do. Anyway, I’m ranting.

I maximized my reading time by listening to books while doing chores. And I’m currently taking a break from writing, while my husband is working on a tool for me to outline my novels (with character sheets, and word counter, and a ton of other features that I’ll talk more about in another post. I’m so excited. Yay!) So, what am I to do with all this time? Books. Yes, April was a generous month as I read fifteen books. Actually, fourteen and two chapters. One of the ARCs I got from NetGalley was a sampler of only two chapters, but they were promising—”Ledge”.

“Second Star to the Left” by Megan Van Dyke

This was such a fun Tinker Bell and Captain Hook retelling. Peter Pan and the lost boys do appear briefly in the story, but this is all about the sassy fairy and the “filthy pirate.” You’ve got your classic enemies-to-lovers storyline, mixed with that heartwarming found family dynamic, and of course, the ‘touch her and you die’ twist that keeps things interesting.

And the side characters? Total sweethearts. Oh, and don’t even get me started on the mythical creatures—they’re just amazing. I’m talking about the merfolk.

“First Grave on the Right” by Darynda Jones

Darynda Jones’s “First Grave on the Right” is a super fun urban fantasy book that mixes mystery, romance, and humor in a gripping story. The book combines both dark and light aspects, using Charley Davidson’s role as a Grim Reaper to create a distinct opportunity for dark humor. By using wit and sarcasm, Jones can make death and the supernatural seem less daunting.

The romantic relationship between Charley and Reyes is a focal point. It shows how love can get complicated in unexpected situations.

“She Who Knows: Firespitter” by Nnedi Okorafor

You’ve got a novella that’s part sci-fi, part fantasy, and completely steeped in West African culture and spirituality. Enter the world of Najeeba, a courageous 13-year-old who answers the Call, setting off on a bold journey along the salt road alongside her father and older brothers. As she challenges both gender and cultural norms, Najeeba fearlessly embraces her destiny. As Najeeba comes into her own power and confronts challenging obstacles, the narrative unfolds with gripping intensity.

“The Devil and the Dark Water” by Suart Turton

I had high expectations from The Devil and the Dark Water, but I have mixed feeling about it. I usually prefer a fast-paced story, so I was a bit disappointed when a few chapters went by and I still had no clue what was going on. The central setting of the story is a ship plagued by a curse, and the characters spend most of the book attempting to decipher the curse’s origins, understand the supernatural occurrences on the ship, and unmask the person responsible. I thought about adding the book to the DNF pile, but decided to push through, hoping it would get better. Eventually it did, but it was too late for me. I DNF it eventually. The book felt too long for the story. But this is just my opinion. It wasn’t my cup of tea, but you may feel different about it. The story sure has lots of fans.

“Death Comes as the End” by Agatha Christie

This wasn’t a paranormal/fantasy read, so you can read my full review on Goodreads.

With ancient Egypt as its setting, this book combines historical fiction and captivating mystery.

This book doesn’t have Christie’s usual cozy vibe. Instead, readers get sucked into a story that goes deep into the human mind, exploring themes like who we are, how we see things, and the complicated web of human connections.

The ancient Egyptian backdrop brings an air of mystery to the unfolding story. Christie skillfully combines murder, deceit, and suspense, captivating readers until the final page.

“The Redemption of Morgan Bright” by Chris Panatier

This wasn’t a paranormal/fantasy read, so you can read my full review on Medium. A woman checks herself into an insane asylum to solve the mystery of her sister’s murder, only to lose her memory and maybe her mind.

Set against the backdrop of Hollyhock Asylum, a relic of the past with its antiquated and sinister practices, the novel explores themes of manipulation, control, and the blurred boundaries between sanity and madness. Panatier’s descriptions are so vivid, they give you the creeps and stick with you even after you finish the book.

“Queen of Roses” by Briar Boleyn

Briar Boleyn’s “Queen of Roses” weaves together the Arthurian legend and the allure of fae mystique, resulting in a mesmerizing and suspenseful tale. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves high-power fantasy and is a fan of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout’s works.

At the center of this tale is Morgan Pendragon, a captivating protagonist with a unique blend of enchantment and royal lineage. As she sets on a mission entrusted to her by King Arthur, you go on an extraordinary adventure filled with peril and unexpected twists. Accompanying Morgan is the enigmatic Kairos Draven, whose mysterious aura adds tension and depth to the story.

“Root and Bone” by Jessica Raney

If you’re drawn to the mystical allure of witches, the eerie charm of Appalachian towns, and the spine-tingling intrigue of murder mysteries laced with supernatural elements, then Jessica Raney’s “Root and Bone” might just be your next captivating read.

Brace yourself for a lovely trip into the world of sisterhood, magic, and small-town secrets. It’s not flawless, but the characters and storytelling are so captivating that supernatural mystery and family bond fans will love it.

“Ledge” by Stacey McEwan

Bear in mind that I only got a sampler from NetGalley, not the full book. “Ledge” starts with a sneak peek into a messed-up world barely hanging on. In just two chapters, we meet Dawsyn, a character who wants more in a tough world of scarcity and danger.

The author wastes no time in throwing you into this wild civilization, where villagers need winged Glacians to stay alive, but they have to make sacrifices twice a year. Dawsyn’s journey shows the struggles of her community, making us excited to learn the secrets of the Selection and the Ledge.

“Eye of the Ouroboros” by Megan Bontrager

This was definitely an intriguing read. The sapphic representation is a standout feature, adding layers of complexity to the narrative and enhancing the richness of the world-building. The characters, from the troubled sister to the conspiracy theorist, had a great dynamic that showcased their stark differences. Bontrager skillfully blurs the lines between reality and the unknown, keeping you hooked until the last page.

“Merchants of Light and Bone” by Erika McCorkle

This is one of the books I’ve read for a blog tour, as I occasionally do. “Merchants of Light and Bone” by Erika McCorkle is an epic dark fantasy that beautifully captures the strength of grief, redemption, and family ties.

“Red Runs the Witch’s Thread” by Victoria Williamson

This was my second book by Victoria Williamson, and I loved it. Inspired by Scotland’s final witch burning in 1697, Victoria Williamson’s “Red Runs the Witch’s Thread” delves into the depths of psychological horror. By transitioning between two different time periods, Williamson creates a story that is disturbing and highly gripping at the same time.

“Queen of Shifting Sands” by Kaitlyn Carter Brown

“Queen of Shifting Sands” throws you into a realm teetering on the brink of chaos, where political intrigue intertwines with a haunting curse and the burdens of leadership weigh heavily on its protagonists. In this fantasy narrative, author Kaitlyn crafts a tale of love, duty, and resilience amidst the looming threat of war.

This book delivers a captivating blend of classic tropes like the cursed prince, arranged marriage, fantastic creatures and found family.

“Perfectly Wicked” by Lindsay Lovise

“Perfectly Wicked” by Lindsay Lovise is an enchanting mix of paranormal mystery, romance, and humor, crafted with lively writing and a captivating plot. With its charming backdrop of Wicked Good Apples orchard, this novel weaves together a whimsical mix of mystery, romance, and just the right amount of enchantment, leaving you spellbound.

“The Last Refuge” by Christina Bacilieri

“The Last Refuge” by Christina Bacilieri takes you into this futuristic world where magic, power, and destiny collide in a dystopian setting. With a fusion of intricate world-building, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, this YA fantasy will captivate you from start to finish. Perfect for fans of “Hunger Games” and “Divergent.”