If you’re anything like me, your to-be-read list grows larger than you can possibly keep up with. Every time I finish a book, three more show up on my shelf.
Usually, I find myself scrolling through Fable (book-reviewing app) or Instagram to track down my next great read. I become so swept up in the idea of a new fantasy book that it tackles all my thoughts and lingers at the forefront of my mind until my self-control snaps, and I find myself opening the doors to my local B&N. I love to wander through the aisles, tapping all the books I have already read, and searching for a new one to capture my attention.
There is no other feeling like being surrounded by rows and rows of books. The familiar book smell, the comforting chatter, the whir of the cafe’s coffee machine. All these things combined make for a lovely afternoon escape. And this time was no different. These past few weeks’ trips have left me with a few books I simply couldn’t leave behind, because, naturally, I can’t leave empty-handed. And that is how these books ended up on my nightstand and my current TBR.
Upcoming Reads
The Raven Scholar – Antonia Hodgson
I picked this one up because I heard many rave reviews, and it had quite a high star average (4.4/5 on Fable). It has a dark academia atmosphere and a promise of political intrigue interwoven with high fantasy. It seems to be well-written and intricately plotted. I am always curious to see a mystery unfold in a world full of scholars and secrets.
This Woven Kingdom – Tahereh Mafi
I wanted a book with an undeniable slow-burn, and this practically fell into my lap. The story follows Alizeh, a girl hiding a powerful destiny while living as a servant. Hidden royalty and characters discovering their true power is a classic pull that always catches my attention. I am incredibly excited to start this book.
A Forbidden Alchemy – Stacey McEwan
Anything involving dangerous magic and forbidden power immediately earns a spot on my shelf. This story promises secrets, magic, high stakes, and romance. The best combinations, in my opinion. I am hopeful it will deliver all the best kinds of tension.
Brimstone – Callie Hart
This book was an immediate buy, as I’ve read the previous book, Quicksilver, and knew that it was going to be good for that reason alone. I’ve heard a bit of mixed reviews, but I am genuinely excited to jump in and see what this book holds. Plus, as a bonus, I’ve heard there is quite a bit of Carrion Swift in this book, and I am a sucker for him. Other than that, I know it picks up right after the first book ends, which was a cliffhanger, so I am eager to see where it goes from there for our two MC’s.
The Bookshop Below – Georgia Summers
After a few darker reads on my list, I wanted something cozy and light-hearted. The idea of a hidden bookshop is always appealing for obvious reasons, but also because it seems like a great summer read by the pool. I love any book that centers around the love of books themselves. I think this will be a gentle, whimsical, and magical read.
Recently Finished (Reviews Coming Soon…)
While those books are next up on my nightstand, I’ve also recently finished two reads I am excited to dive into and will be doing full reviews for on the blog, coming soon.
Assistant to the Villain – Hannah N. Maehrer
This story follows Evie, who unexpectedly finds herself in need of a job. And what better job to take than that of the personal assistant of the Kingdom’s notorious Villain? Filled with hilarious banter, chaotic henchmen, a grumpy boss/sunshine assistant trope, and silly workplace shenanigans (such as mild beheadings), this story perfectly blends chaos, humor, and whimsy in an adorable fantasy read. I will be sharing my full thoughts in an upcoming review soon, but just know, I laughed…a lot.
We Who Will Die – Stacia Stark
This darker fantasy centers around dangerous trials and high-stakes survival of the fittest. It blends a gladiator style competetion with a world ruled by vampires. With shifting alliances and unexpected twists, it creates a tense atmosphere where every decision matters. The main character, Arvelle, finds herself in a predicament of trusting two royal vampire brothers: Tiernon and Rorrik, both dangerous to her in different ways. I can’t wait to dive deeper into this captivating book in a full review coming soon.
As always, my TBR seems to grow faster than what I can keep up with, but these are the books currently waiting on my nightstand. I’m excited to see which ones end up becoming the next story that keeps me up past midnight.
If you’ve read any of these or have them on your TBR, please be sure to let me know in the comments! I love finding a new book to connect with others over. Let me know which book I should read first.
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Until my next midnight read…🌙
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