Reviews of my January Reads!

Collage put together by StoryGraph,
 showing my January 2025 reads
 and ratings

Hello! 

In this post I am going to be discussing all the books I read in January and sharing my reviews and recommendations from the selection of books I read. I feel as though I had a very good month for reading and on the whole I enjoyed nearly everything I read. It normally takes a lot for me to dislike a book anyway because I will always find some positive and I rarely seem to give lower than three stars even if I'm not the biggest fan. This past month was no exception, however I found myself reading a wide range of books and giving out many five star reviews because I was so captivated and enthralled by what I was reading. 

Last month I read a total of 16 books, comprising of a range of different genres. I had a lot of fun with my reading across the month which is reflective in the positive ratings that I gave across the board. Honestly I would struggle to pick a favourite read from this collection of books, so instead I will give short reviews of each book separately in this post and help you determine if any peak your interest.

Somewhere Beyond the Sea by T.J. Klune

★★★★★

To start off the year, I read the sequel to Klune's hit The House in the Cerulean Sea. It was a book I had been looking forward to read for a while because I was a big fan of the first book and of Klune's work as a whole. This sequel did not disappoint. It built on everything I loved about the first book which includes the wonderful family/found family dynamics, the relationship between Arthur and Linus, further characterisation of the children and more lore about the island and the worlds magic systems. I also appreciate the social commentary this book has and feel it is something that is needed particularly in these current times. The unity and togetherness to stand up against the oppressive rule and regime, in this instance the 'The Department in Charge of Magical Youth', follows on from the first book at a time where this response couldn't be more relevant or needed. Overall, I'd say this sequel lives up to the first book and tells a wonderful story about a family fighting together to be who they are and live their lives as they wish- together. 

                                                                                                                      

The Night Shift by Alex Finlay

★★★★                                           

Everyone loves a good thriller, and with so many twists and turns Alex Finlay's The Night Shift  did not let me down. An enthralling story that centres around the impacts of one's trauma as it entwines two identical murder cases in the same town, fifteen years a part. With a collection of different characters at the forefront of the story, all trying to solve both cases and uncover the daunting truth. With an ending that even shocked me, this book draws you in with fast pacing and different narrative viewpoints to give you a satisfying mystery even if the clues left throughout help you realise who is responsible before the reveal. As someone who has never read on of Alex Finlay's works before, after this book I may be swayed to do so in the future.

Love off the Record by Samantha Markum

★★★★★

I have always been a big fan of romcoms, however I did not expect to end up loving this book as much as I did. In fact it may have been one of my favourite books I read last month, and also one of my favourite that I have read in the genre for a while. With a relationship that you can't help but root for, Markum perfectly captures the rivals to lovers trope through Wyn and Three, crafting two characters that have immense chemistry who can't help but be drawn to the other despite their ongoing rivalry- even if they don't know it at the start! Both characters are also so interesting and explored in a way that allows us to see them develop and deal with their flaws and insecurities making the pay off worthwhile. Additionally, I really appreciate the focus on mental health within this story, the way it is discussed openly and not as a taboo and how therapy is recommended when you need it. This coincides with the support all the characters have for one another and how they help each other out by creating a support network for when times are tough. Honestly it makes me want to redo my own university experience with some of the things the book covers in mind. This is the second Samantha Markum book I have read and I enjoyed it a lot more than the first and will definitely be looking out for her next book!

                                                

You Don't Have a Shot by Racquel Marie  

★★★★     

This fun, sporty sapphic romance book explores the relationship between two rival soccer players, who have to form an alliance as they co-captain a less than impressive team at a summer soccer camp otherwise their college soccer prospects are at risk. This book was a super enjoyable read, with a wonderful coming of age arc for our main protagonist Vale, which gives the book a lot of heart and emotional depth. This book has a large focus on the characters and their connections which is why I think it works so well. The romance between Vale and Leticia is developed well and is a slow burn where their rivalry doesn't instantly vanish. The friendships in the book show both the comradery felt in soccer teams but also the pitfalls and relatable fall outs that can happen when you're a teenager. Finally, the relationship between Vale and her family is the core of the book. Their link to soccer and why it means so much to them is a driving force behind everything and really makes you care for Vale and the storyline. As someone who loves Sapphic romances and is also a big fan of soccer (or football as I would call it!) I had a blast with this story and even found myself finding more love and joy for the sport myself.

Mister Impossible by Maggie Stiefvater

★★★★

Mister Impossible is the second book in the Dreamer trilogy,  a sequel series to Stiefvater's Raven Boys. Once again focusing on the Lynch brothers, it follows the fallout from Call Down the Hawk and plunges you straight back into the world of the dreamers. Ronan Lynch has always been one of my favourite fictional characters because of how interesting he is and in this book particularyly Stiefvater further explores his powers, his relationships and who he is, making for a wonderful focal plot. I also really enjoy the Lynch brother's dynamics and how their relationship plays out in any form, that you can see that no matter how they show it they truly care for each other. Unfortunately I am not as drawn to the other characters introduced in this series, compared to the ones I already know. Jordan is an exception to this and I love her as a character as well as her relationship with Ronan, and even Bryde, along with her blossoming romance with Declan. What makes up for my lack of connection to some characters and plots is Stiefvater's wonderful writing and descriptions, the enthralling world and lore she has created that makes you never want the story to end. The way this book ended caught me off guard and sets up interesting paths for all the characters going into the final book in the series. All I truly want though is for  Ronan and Adam to please have their happy ending. (And a Gansey and Blue cameo, if that's not too greedy!)

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde   

★★★★

This is a book that has been on my TBR for a very long time, and is one of the classics that I haven't read that interested me most. When I finally got round to reading it, I was not disappointed. Even though I already had a vague idea of the overall plot of the book, Wilde's writing drew me into the tale in ways I didn't expect and I was fascinated by the moral dichotomy presented and how it led to Dorian's downfall. There are many fictional tales that cover the concept of eternal youth and the problems it can cause, however I feel Wilde's presentation of uncontrollable corruption, conflicts of guilt and remorse alongside the battle of the conscience really make this story stand out among the rest. The writing is of course beautiful with many memorable quotes and evocative symbolism. My favourite aspect of the story is what the painting represents for Dorian, for Basil and for the reader. The metaphorical reflection of ones soul and the truth, how it reflects the ugliness of the dark path one chooses to walk, when before it was renowned and beautiful. In the end, it will all catch up with you as you cannot hide from yourself. This book is honestly artwork in itself, and now I would really like to find a copy of the uncensored version so I can truly appreciate Wilde's work in all of it's true glory!

Witty in Pink by Erica George 

★★★★½

Okay, wow. I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did! My love of Jane Austen means I will always be down to read a regency style romance book and enemies to lovers is an amazing trope if done well- and I really feel like here it was. It follows Blythe and Briggs who have known each other since childhood and do not like each other in the slightest, but now they are grown realise they may have to turn to the other for support as their similar predicaments leave them needing to come up with a plan to solve their problems. The dual POV narration allowed you to see and understand both Blythe and Briggs- their evolving feelings for each other and why they take the actions that they do. I admit that it took a while for me to fully get into the story as the backstory, characters and settings were introduced but after that I was fully engaged with the narrative and the world. The chemistry between our two leads is amazing and you can't help but root for them during many nearly moments full of romantic tension. Of course being a romcom this book is full of the miscommunication trope, which normally I can find grating but here it seemed to work. The choice to make their relationship a slow burner makes the endgame seem worth it for the reader. Overall I had a really good time reading this book and would be first in line if George wrote a sequel so I can spend more time with these characters.

 

Perfect Girl by Tracy Banghart

★★★

I still don't fully know where I stand with this book. I was really drawn into the concept. A thriller/mystery that follows Jessa who is the 'perfect girl' who has to survive when there is the killer on the loose looking for the perfect girl. However, from page one I was never fully drawn into the story and the mystery of who this killer was seemed pretty obvious to me from the first introduction of the character. The second half of the book went to places I didn't expect, which I think did draw me in a bit more- though I wish we had more development for Jessa's friends so that I could care for them more than I did when they too were in danger. This book has many ups and downs, it isn't terrible by any means but it also doesn't stand out. I feel a lot of character work could be expanded on throughout the book to give the desired impacts that Banghart intended the reader to feel regarding the twists and ending.

Prince of Fortune by Lisa Tirreno

★★★★ 

This book fascinated me in so many ways. I was really drawn into the world building, both the magic system and the politics that really drove the story. The plot was intriguing and didn't become too complicated, which can always be a pitfall in books that are driven by a fantastical war. I was also impressed that despite all of this, at it's heart this was still a love story first and foremost. Following Prince Edmund and Lord Aubrey from their first meeting we are shown two souls drawn together becoming entangled within the other's life permanently from this single moment onwards. Now they must deal with the nature of their relationship alongside their roles in both their society and the impending war. They must find the way to create a future for both themselves and their kingdom despite the many forces that are eager to destroy both. As someone who isn't the biggest fan of the love at first sight trope, Tirreno does a wonderful job at making me believe in the romance between Edmund and Aubrey. You can really understand their feelings and why they're so drawn to each other, which helps you root for them during the many predicaments that they are thrown into over the course of the story. I also appreciated both characters having their own arcs and development outside of the relationship. They were able to grow as individuals and fight for themselves too, before they then did so for others which I believe really strengthened their relationship and my investment in it as well. It is a grand epic, that always remembers at it's crux it has a beating heart of romance and allows character to drive the plot, making the reader care about the events that unfold and root for the protagonists to get their happily ever after.

                                                

Verona Comics by Jennifer Dugan

★★★½

Just like the main characters in this book, I love a good comic. Unfortunately I didn't love this book as much as I thought I would but it was still a fun read. It follows Jubilee and Ridley, two teens who meet and begin to fall in love after attending a comic convention prom, however they have a problem. Their parents are feuding comic book store owners which could bring their blossoming romance to a halt before it has even begun. Whilst in this book I was a bit thrown by the love at first sight trope, what I appreciated about this book is it was more than just a romance. I assumed it would be because of the blurb description, but the story actually delved into some pretty serious topics surrounding anxiety and mental health. Tackling these topics in a way that was very refreshing and realistic, but also done with care. The narrative dual POV also helped reflect both characters thoughts and feelings surrounding these topics well and allowed me to connect with them because of it. The lgbtq+ rep, whilst unexpected, was something I like, along with the focal theme of family which I feel was the driving force of the story. Whilst I feel some of the book dragged and wasn't all that gripping at times, I really did find many things to enjoy in this book and could also relate myself to things Jubilee and Ridley went through.

Fraggle Rock: The Ultimate Visual History by Jody Revenson and Noel Murray

★★★★★  

If you know me, you will know that I love anything made by Jim Henson and that I especially love Fraggle Rock. I read Jim Henson: The Biography by Brian Jay Jones last year and was in awe of his craft and what went into his work and how his many ideas were brought to life. When I cam across this book, in a similar vein, I just knew I had to read it to know how the wonderful Fraggle Rock came to be. Beginning with a brilliant foreword from Neil Patrick Harris, who may stake a claim at the biggest Henson creation fan, this book is full of amazing insights into what made this show what it is and helps you understand how it's impact has been so long lasting. This book is full to the brim of behind the scenes tidbits, along with copies of original production notes, drawings, designs, scripts and even emails that enable you to see the amount of dedication and care that went into this show. This in turn made me feel even more joy toward the show, and also toward this book because of how well written and detailed it is. If you love the Fraggles, or even if you don't, I recommend reading this book- you will not regret it!

Just Your Local Bisexual Disaster 

by Andrea Mosqueda

★★★½

The premise of this book was so interesting to me. First of all I loved the name from the moment I saw it- relatable! I also haven't come across many books where the main character has three love interests, and I was very interested to see how Mosqueda would juggle this in the story. Needing a date quickly for her sister's quinceañera, Maggie is faced with growing and conflicting feelings for three of her friends who all play different roles in her life and as she grapples with who she wants to be with she must also face the looming questions about her future. I loved the exploration of Maggie as a flawed character in this story, she was a teenager who was confused about things and made mistakes but she was allowed to learn and grow from them. The family aspect of this book was also something I really liked, and seeing Maggie have that support system was wonderful. My main gripe with the book was the romance, I don't really feel I connected with the relationship Mosqueda chose for Maggie to end up in. I much preferred her chemistry and interactions with her other two options, and whilst I understand why she didn't end up with one of those two characters, I feel the history they had made those connections stronger and drew me to them more. Perhaps that is also a pitfall caused by having three love interests where you can't sufficiently develop all of them and their connections to the main character in a way that will please all readers. Despite this it was still an enjoyable read, and I will always root for books that have Bisexual leads- please give me more!!

You, Me, U.S by Brigitte Bautista

★★★

I was looking for shorter books to read when I came across a recommendation for Bautista's You, Me, U.S . I was instantly drawn to a sapphic best friends to lovers romance that could be a quick and easy read. I didn't expect it to be so explorative as it was into the characters of Liza and Jo, and I feel it works as both a coming of age story and a love story for the characters. I really loved the friendship and how we saw it grow and develop overtime, which made the yearning and romance feel worthwhile and earnt.  I loved the social commentary as well on both the American dream and on women in society (shown through sex worker rep which isn't shamed at any point in the story). I know I was looking for a short story, but I actually wish there had been more of this book so that I could have spent more time with these characters. Overall a compelling story, which I would recommend to others if they're looking for something quick and easy.

Angels Before Man by Rafael Nicolás

★★★★★

I have always been a sucker for a retelling in any form and this book captivated me in ways I didn't expect. Definitely one of my favourite reads of the year so far. Nicolás crafts a beautiful queer retelling of Lucifer's fall, a story encapsulated in tragedy and even some romance. This was so beautifully written, and also so moving. The exploration of Lucifer's downfall through his struggles with identity and self really build a remarkable tragic hero who you can't help but sympathise with even though you already know what is to come. The relationship between Lucifer and Michael was also a fascinating tale throughout the book, a romance doomed to fail from inception which only furthered Lucifer's corruption and hastened his fall from grace. Whilst reading this story I often thought of Milton's Paradise Lost which is one of the only other times I can remember reading something that has depicted Satan in a sympathetic way. As much as I enjoyed it, this is a very heavy book which covers some very dark topics and I recommend reading all of the content warnings before you start reading it. 

Hate Mail by Donna Marchetti

★★★

This book basically ended up being what I expected. It was nothing ground breaking, quite tropey and predictable but on the whole it was an enjoyable enough read, especially alongside the heavier Angels Before Man. It follows Naomi, who is determined to find Luca, the guy who has been her pen pal since they were in the fifth grade who she also happens to be in a constant war of words with. Throughout the book Naomi realises the reason she can't stop thinking about Luca may mean something more, that her feelings towards him and the reason she wants to find him may not be what she first thought. Meanwhile Luca himself might be closer to her than she originally assumed. I will say that whilst the basis of this story follows the beats of many romcoms making the twists that occur seem fairly predictable, it does seem a bit creepy what actually happens if you take a moment and sit with it. I felt like the reveal itself was inevitable but I wish it had occurred earlier in the book so there could have been a greater fall out and I also feel that the reason everything had played out like it did was a tad too contrived. Communication could've solved so much of this stories plot much sooner I feel- damn you miscommunication trope!

Where Sleeping Girls Lie by

Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

★★★★★

I was so happy when my final read of January ended up being a five star read. I loved Ace of Spades and was so excited to get around to reading this and it did not disappoint! This book was everything and more. It was so captivating that I never wanted to put it down. It follows Sade who is new to the Alfred Nobel Academy boarding school and follows the mystery she gets quickly entangled with surrounding the disappearance of her new roommate. She soon learns through her investigations that the school has dark secrets of its own, and the reader begins to learn that Sade seemingly has secrets too. I loved everything about this book from the setting, to the rich and complex characters, to the relationships built up in the book to the twists that you don't even see coming. The story is just breath-taking and paced so well. Once again, like Angels Before Man, this book covers some heavy topics, so whilst I highly recommend it to anyone I'd also suggest reading the content warnings before diving into this book, but if you can please read it because I promise you won't regret it.

And that is all sixteen books I read during January! I really enjoyed my reading last month and February seems to be shaping up in a great way too. I hope to be able to do a monthly overview of the books I read and review them each month, so hopefully you'll stick around to read them. Thank you for taking the time to indulge my ramblings about this collection of books, and I hope that maybe your interest may be peaked in regard to one or two of them :)