And Then I Woke Up – A Matryoshka Doll of Nightmares

Ominous titles portrayed on stunning covers that fill me with a sense of dread are a sure fire bet to getting my attention. Whether the book is a science fiction epic, or short jaunt through a fantastical realm, I’m always game when that lethal marketing combination is aimed my way. Malcolm Devlin’s tale of horror…

The Hunger Of The Gods – Ravenous For More

I am torn in many directions, all of which are good, when talking about The Bloodsworn series by John Gwynne. This is an amazing series that sucks you in like a whirlpool, and I have enjoyed both of the installments I have read immensely. However, my only real struggle with the second book, The Hunger…

Persephone Station Cover Photo

Persephone Station – Queens Of The Underworld

I am back with another hidden gem brought to me by TikTok. I’m surprised a book recommendation was able to sneak through my algorithm dominated by anime and the latest BTS updates, but I digress. The cover for Persephone Station is enough to capture anyone’s attention, but Stina Leicht’s badass heroines will make you stay…

Sandman Volume Four: Season Of Mists – Welcome To Hell

Onward and upward, further into the land of dreams than we’ve ever gone before! My trek into the world of Morpheus and his mythical cohort continues with Neil Gaiman’s Sandman: Season Of Mists. This volume feels sprawling and vast, and it offers a hellishly good time. That said, it ain’t perfect. But I’ll get to…

Absynthe – Substantive Themes, Illusory Execution

Quill To Live favorite Bradley P. Beaulieu has started branching out into science fiction novels. He is writing as Brendan P. Bellecourt for his “debut” Absynthe, an alternate history post World War I that focuses on the powers of illusion and questioning reality. The book has exciting ideas and concepts that were brought to life…

Last Exit – A Scenic, But Bumpy, Road

Last Exit, by Max Gladstone, is a beautifully written character story that I had an extremely hard time connecting with. Many readers who pick up this standalone adventure will find a mesmerizing story about self-discovery, penance, and the nature of the world. Max Gladstone is a favorite author of mine for his work on The…

The City Of Dusk – Sunset This Story

After reading one of Tara Sim’s YA books from a couple of years back, I was excited to explore her new adult fantasy, The City of Dusk. However, I am sad to say my experience with this story was not great. I found the story’s lack of world-building, the in-your-face storytelling, and the confusing chaotic…