Author: fantasyst95

Sunday Summary – 5th April 2026

Posted on April 5, 2026 by fantasyst95

This Sunday Summary is a busy one, and I don’t quite know how I’ve managed it all.

It’s been a mental week at work owing to the fact that it’s one of our busiest periods. I’ve put in overtime and still managed to put out content and read. Sure, maybe not quite as much as usual, but I’ve not nosedived into the abyss like I should have. Could have…

Before we get to books read, let’s recap what I’ve put out content-wise this week. First of all, I shared my wrap-up for March on both YouTube and my blog. On Thursday, I reviewed Storm of Mercia by MJ Porter for the publication blog tour. I loved this historical fiction as much as I expected given I’ve enjoyed the prior eight books in the series!

Friday saw my Books I Turn to in a Book Slump post that was meant to go live last week. Finally, my April TBR went live on YouTube yesterday and on my blog earlier today. Phew! Still with me?

Books Read

Storm of Mercia

My first reading priority of the week was to finish Storm of Mercia ahead of my blog tour review post due Thursday.

I enjoyed this instalment. It was full of the usual action and intrigue we have come to know and love from the Eagle of Mercia chronicles. However, we have some differences in this storyline to previous books. Whilst Icel doesn’t quite find his sea legs, he does find himself on open waters for the first time.

No spoilers here, and if you want to find out more, you can read my spoiler-free review here.

The Astral Library

In last week’s Sunday Summary check-in, I was 40% through The Astral Library. This week, I finished the audiobook as I planned. Knowing how much time I had left, I strongly suspected I would!

The overarching premise of the book is somewhat reminiscent of Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library. However, it is entirely its own story and I loved reading this book of books.

The Astral Library is a sanctuary for those who seek solace in their favourite book. When it comes under attack, Alix steps in to take hold of the narrative and stand up to those who’ve forgotten what, and who, libraries are for.

I really enjoyed this recent release! It was a fun narrative, with an emphasis on saving libraries and those who would try to take away the key resources they offer. More thoughts on this to follow on my YouTube channel in the near future. Watch this space!

Onyx and Ivory

Last night, I started my audiobook listen of Onyx and Ivory. This romantasy novel came onto my TBR out of the TBR Jar I used to pick four new reads for this month.

It wasn’t the audiobook I originally wanted to start with. I had hoped one of the non-fiction picks from that list was available so I could start with that. However, one hasn’t been made for this book so I had to go with Onyx and Ivory itself.

So far, the couple of chapters I’ve started have engaged me with the storyline. I’m looking forward to listening more over the next week. I’m prioritising this so I can have a break between this and another romantasy I’m reading this month – Crown of Midnight.

1984

Finally, I got back to my read of 1984. I’ve had to shelve this for a couple of weeks in order to read Rose Red and Storm of Mercia. I had review obligations for both of these books, so they had to come first.

Now those are done and I’m free of deadlines, I’m back to reading my own choice and pace. Progress with 1984 only started again earlier today, but I’ve already read 70 pages this afternoon. Hopefully I’ll get a few more in before the end of today!

Books Discovered

The other half and I watched a series on Netlfix called The Days this week. It’s about events that took place in the Fukushima Daichi nuclear power plant disaster in March 2011.

That series is based on a report from the manager of the plant, Masao Yoshida, as well as a book called Meltdown: Inside the Fukushima Nuclear Crisis. It was a really interesting series (fictional, but based on the true events). No surprises it’s on my TBR. I enjoyed reading about Chernobyl (Adam Higginbotham) after all…

Coming Up…

Blog

On the blog, I’ve got a review of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine planned. It’s been a while since I read and featured this book. Nevertheless, it was a fantastic read and it’s one I’m excited to talk about again!

Later in the week, I have a unique blog post to share with you. I’m coming up to the nine year anniversary of my blog’s creation. To celebrate that, I am going to look back at what I’ve enjoyed in becoming a book blogger and share where I hope the next nine years will take me.

Finally, you know the drill. Next week I’ll be back with another Sunday summary, catching you up on my current reads as well as recapping my content for the week in case you missed any.

YouTube

This weekend, I’ve recorded a review video for Afger the Forest to go live on YouTube this week.

As well, I have a short about an upcoming read (Looking at Women, Looking at War) and about books I turn to in a book slump.

Finally, I’ll share a recap of what I’ve been reading over the next seven days!

Books

In a new section here on the blog, I’ll also tease the books I plan to pick up after I’ve completed my current reads…

Summary

Given I spent several hours of evening time working this week, as well as working on Good Friday, I’ve not let that stop me in my bookish progress.

Coming down with the lurgy has not helped brighten my weekend. However, I’m determined to enjoy the rest and relaxation time I clearly need with a few good books in hand!

That’s everything from me in today’s Sunday Summary – what are you reading?

Monthly TBR – April 2026

Posted on April 5, 2026 by fantasyst95

My monthly TBR for April is a little bit different. Normally, I have a set of books that I have in mind to pick up and I largely pick this myself. Sometimes that’s shaped by reading challenges, and that is still somewhat true for this month. However, half of this monthly TBR has been decided by a TBR jar.

If you want to go and watch me physically pull these out of the jar and share my initial reactions, I recorded this and published the video over on my new YouTube channel. Rather than rehash all the content, what I’m going to do is share a link to that video in this post, and for those of you who don’t want to go and watch that, I will provide a brief written summary of the books on my TBR below.

Carryovers from March/Reading Obligations

Storm of Mercia

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

Starting with a carryover that I was actively reading as at the change of month, I have already finished storm of Mercier by MJ Porter as I had a review obligation to share my thoughts on the book on the 2nd of April.

I’m not going to go into too much detail here, because my thoughts are already live on the Interwebs. You can check out my blog post here for more on this ninth instalment to this epic historical fiction series set in 10th century England.

The Astral Library

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

Another book I’m featuring because I did carry forward into April, but have already finished as of this April TBR post, is my audiobook lesson of the astral library.

I really enjoyed this contemporary fiction and a story that’s really about the power and magic of libraries. If you like the style of Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library, it offers a similar feel but a completely unique storyline.

1984 / Julia

In March, I started rereading 1984 by George Orwell. At just over 125 pages in, I had to put this down in order to fulfil my reading obligations for reviews for Rose Red and Storm of Mercia.

Now those are done, I’m keen to get back into my re-read of this dystopian fiction so I can then dabble in a retelling of the same world, Julia by Sandra Newman.

Crown of Midnight

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I am reading Sarah J Maas’ Throne of Glass series in a bit to both try out this author, as well as read some more trendy books. Usually, I just do my own thing, but I’m trying to be a little bit more current and talk about more tropical books.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to start Crown of Midnight , which I was supposed to read in March. Fear not though friends! If you want to join along with my readalong, I am committed to reading the second book in April.

As well, I will be reading a book a month every month until this is finished later this year. If you want to join in on this readalong, I am digging these on both StoryGraph and Fable, whichever you prefer! My thoughts on book one are also over on my YouTube channel…

Looking at Women Looking At War

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

The book I wanted to complete before the end of March to contribute towards the Goodreads 2026 Winter challenge is Looking at Women Looking At War by Victoria Amelina.

Whilst I didn’t get to this book before the end of March, I am intrigued by the story and I want to know about Victoria‘s endeavours to document what was happening at the start of the war between Ukraine and Russia. It sounds awful, and knowing Victoria lost her life in this battle is even more heartbreaking. Not only that, but it offers some very current insight into a conflict. We’re all very aware of (although maybe Israel/Iran and the cost of your petrol has superseded this now…)

Let’s get it back on my monthly TBR and on the radar!

April TBR picks

Fifty Things You Need to Know About British History

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I’m excited to pick this book up. I love non-fiction, and in particular this book about British history will definitely be appreciated. Unfortunately, a lot of my learnings at school were dominated with the likes of the boom and bust of the economy in the USA, the Cold War etc.

I think it was a little remiss of my school program to neglect local history in its teaching. Nevertheless, I can remedy that with my own reading on the subject. Fifty Things You Need to Know About British History should give me a launchpad.

Bag of Bones

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I always enjoy a Stephen King novel. In this particular case, Bag of Bones is a chunky Stephen King novel. At around 700 pages on its own, this monthly TBR promises to challenge me. I was going to say take me right up to the wire, but let’s be honest, it will take me into May…

The TBR jar did me dirty here!

Freakonomics

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I feel like this book could go one of two ways. It’s either going to be really interesting and tie together some unusual behaviours that impact our economy. Or, the synopsis hinting at this is a bit of a gimmick to get you to pick up the book and I’m going to be disappointed.

Only time will tell I’m intrigued to pick up this book and find out. Fingers crossed, I’m wrong in my suspicion and that this book turns out better than I think it might.

Onyx and Ivory

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I’m glad a fantasy made it to this reading list and came out of the TBR jar. Honestly, I would’ve been surprised if it didn’t. I have a lot of fantasy on my list and by rights, the odds of one not being pulled out out of the jar would have been slim.

Onyx and Ivory is also a good pick for me right now as it leans into the romantic genre – what I’m trying to read more of anyway. I feel like this is the kind of topical/trendy book that I’m actively seeking to engage with fans of. Let’s hope I’m a fan as well!

Thanks for checking out my latest monthly TBR! What are you reading this April?

Books I Turn to in a Reading Slump

Posted on April 3, 2026 by fantasyst95

When I find myself in a reading slump now again, I have a few tried and tested ways to get out of the funk. It happens to all readers from time to time. Maybe you read such a fantastic book you don’t know what can possibly follow it. Or, perhaps the opposite, a run of mediocre reads or books that aren’t your style have discouraged you from trying another, for fear that also lands on the reject pile. Whatever the reason, there is a cure for all!

So, what’s my secret?

I turn to some of my favourite books, and/or authors in these times. Whether I’m in the mood for a short, snappy read to get me out of the funk, or a longer book I can immerse myself in guilt-free, I’ve got plenty of choice. If you’re here for some inspiration for your next read, I hope my list of books I turn to in a reading slump give you some ideas!

Short, Snappy Reads

Terry Pratchett / Discworld

Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series are great books I turn to in a reading slump. Satire isn’t a genre I pick up a lot of. However, a lot can be said for serious messages framed in light humour, a slightly ridiculous plot line and cast of characters to lighten the mood. Whilst I didn’t read these books initially to beat a slump, I actually turned to these books at a time when a close family member was hospitalised. Around work and hospital visits every day, I was so tired at the end of the day I couldn’t concentrate on TV. Instead, I’d read 20-30 minutes before bed. Discworld is where my re-discovery of reading began back in 2017. The rest, well, is history!

This is Going to Hurt

Humour is a theme you’ll see in this books I turn to in a reading slump post. It’s lighthearted in some ways, easing tension, pressure, or is a refreshing change from a genre or book you’ve struggled with to get you into the slump in the first place.

This non-fiction is written by a doctor turned comedian. He knows his stuff, and his experience in the medical sector has given him plenty of stories that are both entertaining and at times, heartbreaking. He’s a fabulous writer, and I’ve gone on to read a couple of other of his books. His easy writing style makes this an easy pick up in terms of effort. The humour and silly (but true) stories keep you turning the pages!

The Midnight Library

This book is an interesting combination of an easy-to-read narrative style contemporary book, combined with a thought-provoking plot that has us asking what it would be like to be in the protagonist’s shoes. If you are a contemplative reader especially, slowing down to read this style of book may be the medicine you need.

As page count goes, this is only 288 pages long. Not a heavy investment if your heart isn’t in it right now. There are times when a short book is the best of books to turn to in a reading slump. Other times, you may wish for something a little meatier…

Mid-Range

Harry Potter

The early books of this series especially are short and easy to read. I’ve popped this in the average/mid-range section, because obviously the end books are a lot longer. However, by the time you get there the funk should well and truly be gone. Harry Potter are absolutely books I would turn to in a reading slump. Whilst I haven’t picked them up for this purpose before e(thankfully it doesn’t happen to me often), I know how easy going they are. When you want to immerse yourself in another world without too much effort, you’re in the right place 😊

The Tattooist of Auschwitz

A little broader than turning to a specific book is touching on favourite genres. In my case, I love WWII based historical fiction. Perhaps a little morbidly, especially those that are based on individual stories of survivors of the concentration camps.

Okay, so that’s very specific and may not be the kind of books you want to turn to in a case of your reading slump. However, you do you! What’s your favourite genre – can you immediately think of a book that fits this advice?

Longer Books

A Game of Thrones

A Game of Thrones is my favourite books series of all-time. It’s a series I can read over and over. If immersion and escapism is your aim, or finding a series that makes you feel better because others have it worse than you, GOT is perfect 😂 It’s also a long (albeit incomplete series as of writing), but it’s plenty long enough to forget your book woes.

Maybe go with the audiobook versions of the books for maximum ease. Although, if you get twitchy about the pronunciation of Brienne’s name, we’ll be in the same club…

Turning to favourite books is my go-to strategy. These ARE books I turn to in a book slump. I’ll do it time and again! What is your favourite book or series of time, regardless of length?

Summary

What do you do when you are in a book slump? Do you turn to favourite reads, or pick up another hobby for a change?

Blog Tour Review: Storm of Mercia – M.J. Porter

Posted on April 2, 2026April 2, 2026 by fantasyst95

I took a chance on a new historical fiction series back in February 2022 and well, the rest is history…

Okay, I won’t give up my day job.

When I first picked up M.J. Porter’s book, Son of Mercia, I had no idea I was going to fall in love with the protagonist Icel and storyline of these books so hard. We are now nine books into this series, and I don’t regret featuring any of these on my blog.

Today, I’m excited to share my thoughts on the latest instrument of this series – Storm of Mercia. Published just yesterday, I’m delighted to bring my thoughts to you hot on the heels of release. I hope I can inspire you to pick up this epic historical fiction series! Full of action and intrigue, there is something for everyone in these books.

As always, thanks to Rachel and the author, M.J. Porter for the opportunity to read and review Storm of Mercia. Whilst I was provided a copy of the book for the purpose of giving my review, the thoughts expressed within this post are entirely my own.

Are you ready to find out about this action-packed historical fiction?

Storm of Mercia – M.J. Porter

Genre: Historical Fiction

Pages: 320

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Boldwood Books

Original Publication Date: 01 Ap 2026

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5

Goodreads – Storm of Mercia

Wessex has never been Mercia’s ally, neither has it been her only enemy.

Wessex, AD836

The Viking raiders’ devastation has been halted once more by the shields of Mercia as opposed to Wessex. But their whereabouts are unknown.

King Wiglaf of Mercia is keen to ensure the Viking raiders are swept from his shared border with Wessex but these Viking ships are quick and difficult to track and Icel is once more deployed with Ealdorman Ælfstan warriors to do his King’s bidding. However, Icel’s quest is beset with many more obstacles and it’s not all about the seax and shield.

Worrying news from home overshadows Icel’s every deadly encounter. Will the storms of war keep him away or has he time to make one more desperate journey back to Tamworth?

With raging seas driving him ever further from Mercia’s shores, and the threat of a new conspiracy against the Mercian kingship will Icel overpower the sands of time, or will he be defeated by his deadliest nemesis yet?

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/StormofMercia

My Thoughts…

Plot

If you love your historical fiction novels full of action and intrigue, Storm of Mercia will not disappoint. As always, I saw throws himself into the thick of the action. Even within the first 10% of this book, I still find himself in the hands of his enemies. Pulling no punches, the author gets us stuck right back into the world we have called to know and love in this series.

There is always something going on in Storm of Mercia. It’s makes for an entertaining read, and the pages just fly by. Whereas previous instalments of the series have was reaping across the country and fighting battles from horseback, I saw instead find himself in British Waters for the first time. For a book set in this time period, where Vikings are heavily involved in the storyline, I’m surprised we have not yet seen this plot development. That being said, I still definitely feels like a fish out of water, so who can blame him for not choosing this for himself…

In some ways, the events of Storm of Mercia take us back to the very first book, Son of Mercia. That is the book that sold me onto this series in the first place. Being able to almost go back there and be reminded of I saw humble beginnings and deep character relationships was a fun way to circle back to where it all began.

But of course, I saw is not without strife getting there. Nothing runs smoothly, but where is the entertainment value in that?

Characters

Icel remains one of my favourite characters in this genre and time period, like, ever. I always enjoy going back to these books and seeing what trouble he embroils himself in. As a storm of mercy touches upon, I still has a tendency to rush head first and ask questions later. It wouldn’t make for an interesting book if this was not the case. However, when you consider Icel’s development as an individual from that very first book, he has come a long way. And you know what, it feels very natural.

Icel is very much of a man shaped by his environment. In his heart his preference would be to heal rather than hurt. However, his role and standing in society puts him in a place where he is there to defend the weak and vulnerable. He steps into this role like it’s a second nature at this point.

Whilst he is the main star of the show, he isn’t on his own. With a strong supporting cast and regular characters coming back from earlier books in the series, the events and the people involved are consistent throughout and easy to follow. Whilst overall the cast of the book is quite large, the characters are somewhat broken down by role and Association. Not only that, but there is a cast list at the beginning of the book for anyone who needs a refresher on who people are. It’s a nice touch when there’s so much going on!

Setting

As with pretty much every other book in the Eagle of Mercia Chronicles series to date, events take us across the country (and in this particular case, the seas around Britain). It’s a busy time period, with a lot of conflict going on between people both native to the island, as well as Vikings coming to our shows. I saw, as one of the best warriors of Mercia, is always on the front line to any new threat.

The book is already very action packed anyway, but the reflection of travel helps keep events moving in a way that is easy to follow, but also gives us opportunity to explore the wider world of the book is set in. What I appreciate some of the detail and description that is introduced here, there isn’t so much to overwhelm, nor a lack that leaves us asking questions or unable to visualise our surroundings as events unfold. I especially enjoyed the seafaring aspect, setting and difficulties that are major plot conflict drivers in this book. It made a refreshing change whilst also feeling very time appropriate and something naturally Icel would end up getting involved in.

Narrative Style

A number of factors help make this series compulsively readable. From an action packed plot two characters we want to invest in, as well as as vivid descriptions that allow our imagination to fly.

However, the easy, natural writing style of these books helps speed along the page count even more! Sometimes historical fiction can be bogged down with jogging that is difficult to understand. However, Storm of Mercia is unlike these books. M.J. Porter has written the book in such a way that it’s approachable for readers of many backgrounds and reading levels.

I have always been adamant over how easy these books are to read. They are reasonably quick reads as well, especially if you are as familiar as I am with the world, setting, and other aspects that drive these books. But there is one particular example I can give you now that stresses how easy these books are to read.

I am drafting this blog post at 1am the day this post is due. Unfortunately, timing of the blog tour coinciding with quarter-end, which is one of my busiest work periods, combined with absence out of my team, mean that I’ve taken on more workload. I’ve been working overtime for the last few days. Even still, I have still been able to pick up this book and read it without much effort. Even when I’ve been tired, I wanted to dive back into the pages and see where Icel‘s story takes him next.

Summary

I cannot stress enough how much I think you should pick up the Eagle of Mercia Chronicles. Starting with Son of Mericia, be immersed in a historical fiction series with strong character development, lots of action (and I mean, lots of action!).

The fact that I have stuck with this series for so long, as well as reviewed almost every book as part of their publication block tours, should be endorsement enough. However, if you need a little more convincing, let me tell you this: this series has convinced me to try every other book and series written by M.J. Porter. Without question. Auto-buy. I love her writing in terms of plot and style, and I cannot wait to read more of her books!

Author Bio

MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. Raised in the shadow of a building that was believed to house the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia, meant that the author’s writing destiny was set.

Social Media Links –

Facebook: @MJPorterauthor

Twitter: @coloursofunison

Instagram: @m_j_porter

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MJPorterNews

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mj-porter

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

The final audiobook to feature in this monthly wrap-up post is The Astral Library. Reading progress with The Astral Library has been pretty quick. It’s not an overlong read anyway, but the plot line is engaging and reminiscent of another of my favourite reads.

Reading a book about books, and featuring snapshots of well-known titles, makes for an entertaining change of angle. Dipping in and out of the margins of classics has been fun, but of course, it’s not over yet. As of this monthly wrap-up, I’ve got three hours of audio left. I’ve chipped away at this audiobook commuting and listening a little before bed. I can reasonably listen to an hour a day. So, I’m sure you can do the maths and come to the same conclusion that I’ll finish this one shortly!

Rose Red

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

One of my final reads to feature in this monthly wrap-up is Rose Red by Sarah Biggerstaff. Progress with 1984 stalled as I needed to prioritise reading Rose Red for a social media blog tour.

This fairytale retelling was a fun foray into fantasy… again. It’s my favourite genre for a reason, and I always love going back to it. More than that, though, this Snow White inspired tale has elements of witchcraft, romance and challenging family dynamics. Whilst in principal the description of this book sounds suitable for YA, I wouldn’t say it is. It has elements of gore and violence that may be too much for a younger audience.

My favourite aspect of this book, however, is that Rose doesn’t find magic instinctive and she has to learn. Often, the hard way. I’m going to share more on this book in the near future. For now, know it’s a solid read.

Storm of Mercia

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

Finally, in anticipation of a review due in just a couple of days, I started and made good progress with Storm of Mercia. On Sunday I made good headway into this ninth instalment of M.J. Porter’s Eagle of Mercia chronicles.

This historical fiction series is compulsively readable and I got back into this book very quickly. On Sunday, I read the first third of the book. Yesterday, another 10% just before bed. I’m hoping for a little more progress tonight before bed, though that may be a push taking into account when this monthly wrap-up post goes live.

I’m reviewing this book on Thursday, so I need to get my skates on. Needless to say, it’s my immediate priority…

Summary

Considering there were 11 books on my March TBR, I made a noble attempt and managed to progress with seven of these. I’ll take the unread books forward into April, so they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Storm of Mercia is naturally going to be my priority, with 1984 returning to attention shortly after. In the coming days, I’ll release the rest of my monthly TBR for April. This month, the other books on my TBR aside from Crown of Midnight and my March carryovers were decided by a TBR jar. I’ve got an unusual mix, so there is something on the list for every reading mood! I hope you can check that out when it goes live later this week.

What was your favourite read of March? Have you read any of the books in today’s monthly wrap-up post?

Sunday Summary – 29th March 2026

Posted on March 29, 2026 by fantasyst95

In today’s Sunday Summary update, I’ve got several books I’ve progressed with to update you on – including two finishes! With just a couple of days left to read towards the Goodreads 2026 Winter Challenge, I’m doing my best to read as much as I can before the end of the month.

Sadly, I don’t think I’m going to complete this challenge. Other reading obligations I’ve started this week have had to take priority. I’m not mad though. When I shared my 11 book TBR for March, I knew it was going to be a tall order. All things considered, I’ve made a bloody good attempt at it!

Other than reading, what else have I been up to? Well, it’s been a pretty quiet one, all things considered. No social plans this week, but that was intentional. I haven’t had a weekend to myself in weeks! Some work overtime did eat into my Friday night, but I’m now fully rested and recovered.

On the blog, I shared a Top Ten Tuesday Spring TBR post earlier this week. I love these seasonal instalments, as I get to look ahead at some upcoming reads and set my intentions to pick these up. Later this week I’d planned both a post on books I turn to in a book slump, as well as a mini-review of Rose Red. However, I had to prioritise actually finishing Rose Red so I could pot my review on social media. That did go ahead as scheduled, so I’ll catch up on the blog content later.

On YouTube, I’ve experimented with shorts this week. Nothing notable this week, although I do get more views with shorts so I definitely need to make sure I post more go these, as well as long form content.

Books Read

An Arcane Inheritance

In last week’s Sunday Summary post, I confided that I had around 4 hours left of An Arcane Inheritance before completion. As I suspected in this post, being so close to the end made it an easy excuse to pick up this audiobook more to get to the end. From commutes to and from work to short listens before turning in for the night, finishing An Arcane Inheritance was pretty effortless. The storyline really ramped up and I was eager to find out what was going on, once and for all.

I had no idea what to expect from the ending of this book. However, the revelations at the end were engaging and I really wanted Ellory to succeed. An Arcane Inheritance was a fun foray back into dark academia and it is really cleverly written. For a book with a minority main character and an angle of challenging white privilege, it is done in a way that it is clear, but not overbearing across the whole narrative.

An easy 4* rating from me and I’m excited to see more from Kamilah Cole. She has a new release later this year that’s caught my attention, so watch this space…

The Astral Library

After completing An Arcane Inheritance earlier this week (Friday morning), I started The Astral Library. A highly anticipated 2026 release, I’ve enjoyed getting into this book so far. The premise of the book is living within the pages of other well-known titles out there. Already, in the first 40% or so I’ve listened to, we’ve met the likes of Jane Eyre and Sherlock Holmes. Reminiscent in its set up of Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library, The Astral Library begins with a woman’s life falling apart and the library coming to her rescue. However, from there it deviates…

There’s an interesting mystery underpinning the events that see protagonist Alix hopping through the margins of well-known titles and meeting individuals like her seeking refuge between the pages of their favourite novels. It’s an interesting concept and I enjoy how the set up has Alix exploring others worlds as opposed to trying to find her own (the “conventional” journey for library visitors). Personally I can’t wait to discover more about the cause of events.

As of this Sunday Summary, I’m again in a position where I have just a few hours left of audio. Can I finish this pretty quickly? I’m confident I will!

Rose Red

Conventional reading progress started slow this week. Combined with some overtime on Friday night, it made my last-minute rush to finish Rose Red by Sarah Biggerstaff a little more pressured than I would have liked… 😅

However, I did it. And, to be fair, Rose Red was easy to read. The book also had a bit of a mystery and built-up to quite the climax. Actually sitting down and reading the book was a piece of cake. This week’s issue was finding the time to do it. Nevertheless, my review went out on time yesterday after some hours of reading to make up for lost time. I posted my short review of Rose Red on Instagram and YouTube.

Shamelessly I’m going to plug my my accounts here so you can follow these if you want to see more mini-reviews and shorter-form bookish content.

This fairytale retelling was fun and suits fans of romance, witchcraft, strong sister bonds and problematic relationships with other family members. If this sounds like your cup of tea then you DEFINITELY need to follow and go see more on this book!

Storm of Mercia

Finally, I made a start on another title for which I have a blog tour review obligation. This one is due Thursday 2nd April. So, I have a few days to read this book. It’s a good job I thrive on a deadline isn’t it?! 😅

Already today, I’ve read a third of this book in practically one sitting. I love diving into these historical fiction books by M.J. Porter. Icel is one of my favourite characters in the genre and time setting, and I read a few books that overlap here. He’s a great all-rounder, if a bit prone to getting himself into troublesome situations. He has a heart of gold though, so we can forgive his propensity to dive-in head-first to defend the weak.

Already I’m a good way into the introduction of this book. I’m looking forward to reading on and getting more immersed back into events in Mercia and the wider Eagle of Mercia Chronicles as a whole 😊 More on this one next week. Stay tuned!

Books Discovered

Whereas the rest of this Sunday Summary is full of bookish updates, there’s no news to report here. So, this week, I’m two books down thanks to my completions and nothing new added 🎉🎊

Coming Up…

Blog

On the blog next week, I’ve got both my monthly wrap-up for March 2026 and my April TBR planned. They’re the usual posts at this time of the month, so hopefully no surprises here!

On Thursday I’m lined up to feature my review of Storm of Mercia by M.J. Porter. If you have followed along with my reviews of the series so far, I hope you are as excited for my review of this latest instalment – book 9 no less! If you;’re unfamiliar, hop back to the very beginning and my review of Son of Mercia for a taste of what to expect.

As well as those, I’m going to try my best to get this week’s planned post about go-to books for reading slumps out as well. On the one hand, it’s quarter-end at work so I could be busy and I know for sure I’m working bank holiday Friday. Hopefully no more than that. At the same time, it is a long weekend so I’m sure I can squeeze it all in somewhere…

Of course, I’m here every week, same time, with my Sunday Summary update. Take a look at next week’s post to see where I finally weigh in at with bookish progress towards the Goodreads 2026 Winer Challenge and my March TBR. Not only that, but hopefully I’ll have

YouTube

With the end of March fast approaching, I’ll record my monthly wrap-up to post on YouTube mid-week. It’s not really something I can do very well ahead of time.

What I have been able to record ahead of time is my April TBR. With a placeholder left in for my carryovers from March, the rest of my reading list has been determined by a TBR Jar. It’s been a good while since I used this method to mix up my reading, and I got some very different books some out as a result.

As well as these, I have a few shorts recorded, which I’ll intersperse throughout the week.

Summary

With two completions and a last-push towards reading as many books as I can towards the Goodreads 2026 Winter Challenge and my March TBR, it’s been a productive week overall!

Thanks for reading today’s Sunday Summary update. What have you read this weekend?

Top Ten Tuesday: Spring 2026 TBR

Posted on March 24, 2026 by fantasyst95

I enjoy putting together this regular themed Top Ten Tuesday. I have done variations of this post a number of times now, because it’s great to look forward to upcoming books on my reading list. With spring finally here, and a great start to my reading year under my belt, I’m motivated to pick up some fantastic reads in the near future!

In the interests of featuring some different books, I won’t be featuring anything on my March TBR. Given most of these books are contributions to completing the Goodreads 2026 Winter Challenge, it wouldn’t be fitting to put them on this Top Ten Tuesday: Spring 2026 TBR, would it?!

Let’s look forward to a few books I plan to pick up in the next few months!

Series Continuation

Golden Fool – Robin Hobb

After a year’s break following the devastation of Fool’s Errand, I think I’m finally ready to go back to Robin Hobb’s The Realm of the Elderlings series. Next on the list is Golden Fool. I’ve enjoyed going back to Fitzchivalry‘s storyline. After a significant detour in her Liveship Trader trilogy, I’m excited to see how fits a story unravels after the events of Fool’s Errand.

Honestly, I have no idea where it is going to go. That’s the beauty of it though – and Robin Hobb is the type of author who will not disappoint!

The Way of Kings – Brandon Sanderson

It feels somewhat cheeky, including Brandon Sanderson‘s first instalment of the The Way of Kings in a ‘series continuation’ section. However, there is a reason for my doing so. In a recent YouTube video, I discussed how I was going to have to go back to the beginning of this series in order to continue it. It’s been a long time since I read The Way of Kings, and I part read Words of Radiance before putting it down. Not that there was anything wrong with it – long books just weren’t suiting me at the time…

It’s been in the region of 7 to 8 years since I attempted this series. Whilst I have very high-level highlights in my head for events that I’ve taken place, there is no way I can appreciate the detail of this series without going back to its origins.

The Empty Throne – Bernard Cornwell

It’s also been a little while since I delved into Bernard Cornwell’s The Last Kingdom, a.k.a., the Saxon Stories. And, I am up to a pivotal point with this next book.

The Empty Throne follows events after King Alfred‘s death. Without trying to sound too excited, it’s kind of the point in the storyline where things get interesting as different people start vying for power. This is the sort of thing I love in my reading, whether that’s fantasy or historical fiction. The Empty Throne is the exception in the section in that it is a relatively standard sized book. The other entries on this Top Ten Tuesday: Spring 2026 TBR are chunky fantasy instruments.

It will be a refreshing change to have the excitement I love in a reasonably sized book…

The Great Hunt – Robert Jordan

Another chunky entry on this list is The Great Hunt by Robert Jordan. In recent years, I’ve made more of an effort to pick up sequels in a more timely manner than I ever have before. It’s made avoiding situations like Brendan Sanderson’s The Stormlight Archives more avoidable. Having not long read The Eye of the World, I want to pick up the sequel whilst I’ve still got an idea of what went on before.

This promises to be every bit as much the chunky fantasy instalment as it’s predecessor. It’s not going to be a light or quick read by any means. For that reason, I’ve deliberately withheld from putting too many other books like this on this Top Ten Tuesday: Spring 2026 TBR. It needs to be achievable – putting too many junkie roots on this list means I will never get to them all!

Standalone Novels

Eve – Cat Bohannon

Another behemoth on my TBR, though thankfully a standalone novel is Eve by Cat Bohannon. If you’re a regular reader here on my blog, you will know this book has featured several times in the hopes I will get to it shortly. First, in my 20 Books of Summer Challenge. Then, as a hopeful contributor to the Goodreads 2026 Winter Challenge (though sadly this book does not qualify, so it was swapped out).

I love the intended focus of this book focusing on how the biology of women has contributed to the success of humans to date. It’s quite different from the usual content I pick up. However, its scientific backing will make for a refreshing read.

The Midnight Train – Matt Haig

Not too long ago, I shared a list of highly anticipated releases in 2026 over on my YouTube channel. In that list, I include a book by Matt Haig which is technically a sequel to a book I have already read, but I will be picking this up as a standalone. I have already read that first book twice quite recently and I don’t need to pick it up again. Not only that, but I think the style of the book is a spin-off from how the original was written rather than a direct continuation.

That book is The Midnight Train by Matt Haig. Instead of focusing on the what if of living an alternative lifestyle as we see in The Midnight Library, my understanding of The Midnight Train is that the protagonist is much older, perhaps looking at the what if from that perspective instead.

The Director – Daniel Kehlmann

In my blog post last week about the Booker 2026 Longlist, I shared my intention to read books from the longlist for this year. It’s not really something I have ever set out to do before, but I’m excited to try this challenge and stretch myself out of my reading comfort zone.

One of the books I was most excited about from this list is The Director. A historical fiction set around the period of World War II, which is one of my favourites, this book has every promise to be something I enjoy. Naturally, I want to hit the ground running with this list and inspire myself to continue with this reading challenge. With that in mind, it makes sense to start with one of the books I’m most excited for and feel I have the closest overlap in terms of genre of reference.

The Kite Runner – Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner is a well-known classic title. It’s one I confess I have not yet picked up as of this Top Ten Tuesday: Spring 2026 TBR. Given it’s popularity and how well known this book is, it feels like a complete oversight that I have yet to pick it up. Hopefully, that’s one I can change in the next few months!

A reading objective I have talked about on my blog recently, including in the Booker 2026 Longlist post I mentioned earlier, but also in the likes of my review of The Great Passage on YouTube, is reading or diversely. With The Kite Runner, I have every confidence I can achieve this! The Kite Runner is on my fixed reading list on my 2026 resolutions post.

#murdertrending – Gretchen McNeil

In the grand scheme of things, I feel like the books featured so far in this Top Ten Tuesday: Spring 2026 TBR are quite serious.

To lighten the mood, I have included a book called #murdertrending. In terms of genre, it’s different to other books on this list. The length is also pretty reasonable; it should therefore be a quick read to help me along through this TBR.

The Nights are Quiet in Tehran – Shida Bazyar

Another Booker 2026 Longlist entry that I’m hoping to get to pretty soon The Nights are Quiet in Tehran.

This is a pretty short entry on the list, so definitely achievable to get through pretty quickly. Not only that, but its feminist angle has been excited to see what this book is all about and whether it is worth the hype of the Booker Longlist! I can only read it and find out…

Summary

There’s a good variety of books on today’s Top Ten Tuesday: Spring 2026 TBR. It’s ambitious, as always, but where is the fun in giving myself an easy ride?!

Have you read any of the books on this Top Ten Tuesday: Spring 2026 TBR?

Sunday Summary – 22nd March 2026

Posted on March 22, 2026 by fantasyst95

This week was a reverse Uno compared to my last Sunday Summary update. This week, I traded my calm and collected week off for a manic return. Partly, it was to be expected given the work we had on at the moment. However, we also have other people in the team out, which compounded to the issue. Nevertheless, I did still manage to fit in my usual contact creation, as well as some reading to boot. Let’s recap what those are in my latest Sunday Summary instrument!

In terms of content creation, on the blog I shared a list of the 2026 booker prize longlist books and shared which of those I would like to read. Is the first time I’ve taken any real interest in reading from this list. However, I think this will make for an exciting readalong further down the line. Later in the week, a Shelf Control post went live on Friday. In this week’s post, I featured a non-fiction book about the creation of one of my favourite TV series of all time. It’s probably not a spoiler that it’s based on a book series…

On YouTube, I shared three recommendations for fans of dystopian novel 1984. I am currently reading this dystopia for the third time. If you like some of the themes addressed in this book, I share a few quite different examples of how these play out in alternative dystopian worlds.

Today, I published my mini-review of my first book in the Throne of Glass readalong. I wanted to document my thoughts on this first book before I get stuck into the next instalment of the series. It’s not a super long review, but it will give you an idea of how much I enjoyed this first book and why I’m excited to get into the second!

Books Read

An Arcane Inheritance

In last week’s Sunday Summary, I made around 3 hours progress into An Arcane Inheritance.

This week I’ve been pretty consistent with that number, even despite being busy. Another 2hrs and 15mins progress this week brings me to within 4hrs of completion of this audiobook. Given I’m close to the end now, as well as my 31st March deadline for the Goodreads 2026 Winter Challenge award, that’ll help encourage me to finish the audiobook next week.

I’m enjoying this one too – going back to dark academia has been fun and I’m enjoying how the storyline is playing out. The Déjà vu aspect of the storyline has me intrigued. I can’t wait to unfurl the reasons why Ellory is convinced she’s been here before!

Rose Red

I’ve temporarily set aside 1984 in lieu of picking up a book for a review obligation next week. That book is called Rose Red by Sarah Biggerstaff.

This fantasy fairytale retelling is reminiscent of Snow White but also features witchcraft and a lot of elements I’m enjoying from Cottagecore books right now.

As of this Sunday Summary update, I’m just shy of 25% into the book. It’s a super easy read so far and so I’m confident I’ll have this finished in advance of my review date, 28th March. My review will go live on Instagram; it’s a social media tour. So, don’t forget to follow me there so you can see my thoughts on this one!

Books Discovered

It’s not really a massive book, but yesterday I picked up A De-Tailed Account of Manx Cats. Yes, I went to a local cat cafe and saw this!

My cats aren’t manxies, but I’m interested in reading more about what makes them different (including why they don’t have tails!)

Pictures of my cats for tax…

Also, I added a scutch of books on the 2026 Booker Prize Longlist… you’re shocked I’m sure…

Coming Up…

YouTube

With this week being a bit mad, I’ve only got a couple of shorts recorded that I’ll drop next week. Since YT seems to push short form content more I’m going to take the opportunity to experiment with this form this week and see if it boosts my numbers.

I’m also experimenting with recording a long form reading vlog to go live next Sunday. It’ll also feature some video and pictures from going chocolate-making with friends today!

Blog

On the blog, I’ve got a Top Ten Tuesday Spring 2026 TBR post. In this somewhat regular seasonal feature here on Reviewsfeed, I’ll share books I plan to read in the next three months. I’m not sure if I’ll have much ‘seasonal’ on here, but we’ll see!

Later in the week, I’m going to take a break from my usual Friday features in exchange for something new. Instead, I’m going to post my go-to books when I’m in a reading slump.

On Saturday I’ll post my review of Rose Red on YouTube and across my other social media accounts. Whilst this isn’t strictly a blog tour, it wouldn’t feel right not to post as least a mini-review here…

Finally, I’ll rock up with my usual Sunday Summary update this time next week. Fingers crossed I’m a lot further with my reading than I am now…

Summary

Whilst I don’t have any finishes in this Sunday Summary, it’s great to catch up with you all! Will I get through my March TBR and complete the Goodreads 2026 Winter Challenge? It could go either way right now!

Have you read any of the books featured today? What are you currently reading?

Shelf Control #102 – 20/03/2026

Posted on March 20, 2026 by fantasyst95

***Today’s Shelf Control post contains an affiliate link to Amazon if you wish to purchase the featured book. If you follow this link, I will earn a small commission from that purchase at no cost to you.

If you wish to obtain a copy of the book based on this post, I would really appreciate you following this link and showing my content some support by making your purchase***

Shelf Control is a meme run by Lisa at Bookshelf Fantasies. It’s a celebration of the unread books on our shelves! The idea is to pick a book you own but haven’t read and write a post about it (suggestions: include what it’s about, why you want to read it, and when you got it), and link up.

If you want to read more about the Shelf Control feature, check out Lisa’s introductory post.

In today’s Shelf Control, I’ve got a non-fiction book about my favourite ever TV series. Based on the books by George R.R. Martin, the filming of Game of Thrones is the feature of Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon. This is a non-fiction about the filming of the series. I’m excited to get behind the scenes!

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon – James Hibberd

Genre: Non-fiction

Pages: 452

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Transworld Books

Publication Date: 06 Oct 2020

Amazon Purchase Link

Goodreads – Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon

THE UNTOLD STORY OF A GLOBAL OBSESSION DIRECT FROM THE SHOW’S CAST AND CREATORS…

This official, complete history of HBO’s Game of Thrones will draw on the author’s many long days and nights spent on GOT sets all over the world and his countless interviews with cast and crew, many of which have never been published before. Packed with stunning photographs from the show and from behind the scenes, this is the only book that will be absolutely essential reading for every Game of Thrones fan.

Game of Thrones is the biggest television drama ever to have graced our screens. The epic saga of warring families, huge battles, arduous journeys and dying heroes has captured the hearts and attention of millions of fans across the world. But its conclusion isn’t necessarily the end of the story…

James Hibberd has extensively covered the show since breaking the news of its pilot in 2008 and has had more access to the show’s top-secret set than any other member of the media. He was in Croatia when Joffrey Baratheon perished; he was in Northern Ireland when Jon Snow desperately fought in the Battle of the Bastards. He has documented every part of the making of the show and has had exclusive access to cast members, writers and directors.

My Thoughts

It’s fair to say A Game of Thrones is one of my favourite series of all time. I have paperback copies of the books. Audiobooks. Kindle editions. Also, all the DVD’s for every season of the TV show.

Fan, much?! 😅 yes… yes I am!

This book is about the filming of my favourite tv series. I’m excited for the insight, gossip and background behind how it all came together. It’s a very different type of non-fiction book to read as well. I’m excited to read a book that concerns production of a show.

I’m not so sure why this book has mixed reviews. I hope I don’t fall amongst those that ended up critiquing the book. However, I doubt it. I don’t have a strong opinion about the content of the book already. I’m reading it to expose myself to the behind-the-scenes content in the first place.

Summary

There isn’t much A Game of Thrones content I haven’t read, but I’m always excited to find some more. Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon is one exception, but one I’m excited to remedy soon!

Have you read Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon? Are you as much of a Game of Thrones fan as I am?

The Booker 2026 Longlist – What to Read?

Posted on March 18, 2026 by fantasyst95

For the first time, I’m taking my some interest in the Booker 2026 Longlist.

I read and loved Orbital by Samantha Harvey – a previous prize winner, back in January. First read of the year, actually.

So, I’m intrigued to look at and maybe read some of the current year’s entries. In today’s Booker 2026 Longlist post, I’ll cover details on each book and the synopsis. After the details, I’ll recap what I’m interested in reading!

Do I want to read these Booker 2026 Longlist books? Let’s find out!

On land where enslaved people were once tortured and murdered, the state built a penal colony in the wilderness, where inmates could be rehabilitated, but never escape. Now, decades later, and having only succeeded in trapping men, not changing them for the better, its operations are winding down. But in the prison’s waning days, a new horror is unleashed: every full-moon night, the inmates are released, the warden is armed with rifles, and the hunt begins. Every man plans his escape, not knowing if his end will come at the hands of a familiar face, or from the unknown dangers beyond the prison walls.

Ana Paula Maia has once again delivered a bracing vision of our potential for violence, and our collective failure to account for the consequences of our social and political action, or inaction. No crime is committed out of view for this novelist, and her raw, brutal power enlists us all as witness.

The Director

Genre: Historical Fiction

Pages: 332

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Riverrun

Publication Date: 22 May 2025

Amazon Purchase Link

Synopsis

From ‘one of the brightest, most pleasure-giving writers at work today’ (Jeffrey Eugenides), a visionary tale inspired by the life of the 20th century film director G.W. Pabst, who left Europe for Hollywood to resist the Nazis and then returned to his homeland with his wife and young son and began making films for the German Reich.

An artist’s life, a pact with the devil, a novel about the dangerous illusions of the silver screen.

G.W. Pabst, one of cinema’s greatest, perhaps the greatest director of his era: when the Nazis seized power he was filming in France, to escape the horrors of the new Germany he flees to Hollywood. But under the blinding California sun, the world-famous director suddenly looks like a nobody. Not even Greta Garbo, who he made famous, can help him. And thus, almost through no fault of his own, he finds himself back in his homeland of Austria, which is now called Ostmark. The returning family is confronted with the barbaric nature of the regime. But Goebbels, the minister of propaganda in Berlin, wants the film genius, he won’t take no for an answer and makes big promises. While Pabst still believes that he will be able to resist these advances, that he will not submit to any dictatorship other than art, he has already taken the first steps into a hopeless entanglement.

Daniel Kehlmann’s novel about art and power, beauty and barbarism is a triumph. The Director shows what literature is capable of.

She Who Remains

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 160

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Peirene Press

Publication Date: 10 Feb 2026

Amazon Purchase Link

Synopsis

High in the Accursed Mountains, in a village ruled by the ancient laws of the Kanun, Bekja escapes an arranged marriage by becoming a sworn virgin, renouncing her womanhood to live as a man. Her decision sets off a brutal chain of events, destroying her family and separating her from the one she loves the most. Years later, as Bekija – now Matija – tells their story to a visiting journalist, long-buried truths come to light, along with the realisation of all that might have been.

Small Comfort

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 384

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Wildfire

Publication Date: 12 Mar 2026

Amazon Purchase Link

Synopsis

‘You know, love is love, he says. But what about the revolution?’

Intricately built and wickedly humorous, these five interconnected short stories are all about one thing: money.

From an interview with a child-star-turned-thief to the mysterious death of an employee at a drug manufacturer – or the couple feigning marital bliss to keep their inheritance, Ia Genberg carefully unravels the value we place on both money and people.

What does it really mean to be in debt to someone? How does our financial worth permeate the ways we think and feel? And what do we lose when we supposedly win? Small Comfort skewers its characters, slyly implicating the reader along the way.

The Deserters

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 224

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Fitzcarraldo Editions

Publication Date: 08 May 2025

Amazon Purchase Link

Synopsis

Fleeing a nameless war, a soldier emerges from the Mediterranean scrubland, filthy, exhausted and seeking refuge. A chance meeting forces him to rethink his journey, and the price he puts on a life. On 11 September 2001, aboard a small cruise ship near Berlin, a scientific conference pays tribute to the late Paul Heudeber, an East German mathematician, Buchenwald survivor, communist and anti-fascist whose commitment to his side of the Wall was unshaken by its collapse. The oblique pull between these two narratives – a cipher in itself – brings to light everything that is at stake in times of conflict: truth and deception, loyalty and betrayal, hope and despair. Superbly translated by Charlotte Mandell and told in Mathias Enard’s typically mesmerizing, inventive prose, The Deserters lays bare the ravages of war on the most intimate aspects of life – and asks what remains of our selves in its wreckage.

The Remembered Soldier

Genre: Historical Fiction

Pages: 695

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Scribe

Publication Date: 03 Jun 2025

Amazon Purchase Link

Synopsis

An extraordinary love story and a captivating novel about the power of memory and imagination.

Flanders 1922. After serving as a soldier in the Great War, Noon Merckem has lost his memory and lives in a psychiatric asylum. Countless women, responding to a newspaper ad, visit him there in the hope of finding their spouse who vanished in battle. One day a woman, Julienne, appears and recognises Noon as her husband, the photographer Amand Coppens, and takes him home against medical advice. But their miraculous reunion doesn’t turn out the way that Julienne wants her envious friends to believe. Only gradually do the two grow close, and Amand’s biography is pieced together on the basis of Julienne’s stories about him. But how can he be certain that she’s telling the truth?

In The Remembered Soldier, Anjet Daanje immerses us in the psyche of a war-traumatised man who has lost his identity. When Amand comes to doubt Julienne’s word, the reader is caught up in a riveting spiral of confusion that only the greatest works of literature can achieve.

We Are Green and Trembling

Genre: Historical Fiction

Pages: 208

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Harvill Secker

Publication Date: 12 Jun 2025

Amazon Purchase Link

Synopsis

A sumptuous and surreal historical reimagining of one of South America’s best-known trans men, Antonio de Erauso

From deep in the wilds of the New World, Antonio de Erauso writes a letter to his aunt, the prioress of the convent he escaped as a young girl. Since leaving his past behind, he’s become Antonio, conquistador. Now, hiding in the jungle and hounded by the army he deserted, Antonio is caring for two Guaraní girls he rescued from enslavement. But the New World has one more metamorphosis in store, which might save them all from extinction.

Tender and surreal, We Are Green and Trembling conveys glimmers of hope for the future within the brutal colonial history of Latin America, finding in the rainforest a magical space for transformation.

The Nights Are Quiet in Tehran

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 228

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Scribe

Publication Date: 29 Apr 2025

Amazon Purchase Link

Synopsis

A captivating, polyphonic novel of one family’s flight from and return to Iran.

1979. Behsad, a young communist revolutionary, fights with his friends for a new order after the Shah’s expulsion. He tells of sparking hope, of clandestine political actions, and of how he finds the love of his life in the courageous, intelligent Nahid.

1989. Nahid lives her new life in West Germany with Behsad. With their young children, they spend hour after hour in front of the radio, hoping for news from others who went into hiding after the mullahs came to power.

1999. Laleh returns to Iran with her mother, Nahid. Between beauty rituals and family secrets, she gets to know a Tehran that hardly matches her childhood memories.

2009. Laleh’s brother Mo is more concerned with a friend’s heartbreak than with student demonstrations in Germany. But then the Green Revolution breaks out in Iran and turns the world upside down …

A topical, moving novel about revolution, oppression, resistance, and the absolute desire for freedom.

The Booker 2026 Longlist – Which Should I Read?

Well, the short answer is I want to read all of them!

When I reviewed The Great Passage recently, I shared my intention to read more diversely. Picking up books from this list will go a long way to achieving that. With authors representing 14 nationalities and translated from 11 languages into English, there’s plenty here to broaden my reading horizons.

Not every book is published yet. However, with the last expected early next month, I plan to start reading in the near future so by the end of the year, I can get through as many of these as possible.

Do you want to read and books on this Booker 2026 Longlist? Have you read any already?