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thelitraccoon's reviews
101 reviews
Sorcery and Small Magics by Maiga Doocy
4.0
This book felt so different from anything I’ve read before—in a good way! Instead of focusing on world-changing events or big societal issues, it zooms in on personal struggles and character growth, which made it feel really intimate and reflective.
The plot starts off a little slow, but you can feel the tension between Grimm and Leo right away. They’re set up as both reluctant magical college classmates and future love interests—although they really can’t stand each. Thanks to an (accidental) curse, they’re forced to spend way more time together, which creates some tense moments. Don’t expect romance just yet, though—this is a proper slow burn. I loved how the author let their relationship simmer instead of rushing into anything.
The writing style really stood out for me. The way brackets were used to show Leo’s inner thoughts added so much personality and made the narration feel unique. The tone is whimsical in the best way, and honestly, reading this book felt like being wrapped up in late afternoon sunlight in the middle of a golden wheat field.
I also have to shout out how the book handled gender and sexuality—it just exists in this world without explanation or labels. Queer relationships and identities are treated as completely normal, which was so refreshing and such a nice change from the usual heteronormative setup.
The magic system isn’t overly complicated, but it’s super unique and fits the quieter tone of the story. That said, Leo as a character was tough for me. He’s messy, childish, and kind of selfish when it comes to the people who care about him. He does grow by the end, but his redemption arc felt a little rushed—it didn’t fully win me over.
I’m really glad this book came in the FairyLoot adult monthly box, because I don’t think I’d have picked it up otherwise! Knowing it’s the author’s debut and the first in a trilogy makes me even more excited to see where the story goes next.
The plot starts off a little slow, but you can feel the tension between Grimm and Leo right away. They’re set up as both reluctant magical college classmates and future love interests—although they really can’t stand each. Thanks to an (accidental) curse, they’re forced to spend way more time together, which creates some tense moments. Don’t expect romance just yet, though—this is a proper slow burn. I loved how the author let their relationship simmer instead of rushing into anything.
The writing style really stood out for me. The way brackets were used to show Leo’s inner thoughts added so much personality and made the narration feel unique. The tone is whimsical in the best way, and honestly, reading this book felt like being wrapped up in late afternoon sunlight in the middle of a golden wheat field.
I also have to shout out how the book handled gender and sexuality—it just exists in this world without explanation or labels. Queer relationships and identities are treated as completely normal, which was so refreshing and such a nice change from the usual heteronormative setup.
The magic system isn’t overly complicated, but it’s super unique and fits the quieter tone of the story. That said, Leo as a character was tough for me. He’s messy, childish, and kind of selfish when it comes to the people who care about him. He does grow by the end, but his redemption arc felt a little rushed—it didn’t fully win me over.
I’m really glad this book came in the FairyLoot adult monthly box, because I don’t think I’d have picked it up otherwise! Knowing it’s the author’s debut and the first in a trilogy makes me even more excited to see where the story goes next.
Blood of Hercules by Jasmine Mas
5.0
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK Audio for providing me an advanced audiobook copy in exchange for my honest review!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5 Stars
Warning: This book is a DARK romantasy. Make sure to read the trigger warnings first!
Okay, this book had me hooked! I listened to it in under 30 hours after receiving it, which is alarming, considering the 15-hour runtime.
Alexis, our FMC, is one of the funniest characters I’ve encountered in a long time. Her inner monologue made me chuckle more than once. Jasmine Mas very impressively managed to build a futuristic, post-apocalyptic world while also including Greek gods and demi-gods (Spartans), morally very questionable 6’ 5’’ tattooed men (yes, plural—there’s a sort of reverse harem vibe!) who have that classic “who did this to you” energy and prefer shooting before asking questions. All this is done with slight nods to Gen-Z pop culture and language, which made it relatable. It wasn’t cringe for me, but I could imagine others might feel differently.
Nyx is hands down the best side character I have ever had the pleasure of reading about, and I feel like she is every reader’s voice included in the books.
Is this high literature for the distinguished mind? No. Did I eat it up? Absolutely! This was my first ever dark romance/romantasy, and I’m not sure I can go back now. Although it is kind of in the spirit of “I’m not like other girls” while all the men want her, I can forgive that as it is done in an excellent way. The writing style and general word choices are way above average for a book of this genre, making it delightful to read or listen to!
I highly recommend the audiobook, which Meg Sylvan primarily narrates. Her impressive voice acting beautifully brings out Alexis’s emotions. Teddy Hamilton, Tristan Morris, and Aiden Snow narrate the male POV chapters. They all do justice to their characters with their deep, raspy voices.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5 Stars
Warning: This book is a DARK romantasy. Make sure to read the trigger warnings first!
Okay, this book had me hooked! I listened to it in under 30 hours after receiving it, which is alarming, considering the 15-hour runtime.
Alexis, our FMC, is one of the funniest characters I’ve encountered in a long time. Her inner monologue made me chuckle more than once. Jasmine Mas very impressively managed to build a futuristic, post-apocalyptic world while also including Greek gods and demi-gods (Spartans), morally very questionable 6’ 5’’ tattooed men (yes, plural—there’s a sort of reverse harem vibe!) who have that classic “who did this to you” energy and prefer shooting before asking questions. All this is done with slight nods to Gen-Z pop culture and language, which made it relatable. It wasn’t cringe for me, but I could imagine others might feel differently.
Nyx is hands down the best side character I have ever had the pleasure of reading about, and I feel like she is every reader’s voice included in the books.
Is this high literature for the distinguished mind? No. Did I eat it up? Absolutely! This was my first ever dark romance/romantasy, and I’m not sure I can go back now. Although it is kind of in the spirit of “I’m not like other girls” while all the men want her, I can forgive that as it is done in an excellent way. The writing style and general word choices are way above average for a book of this genre, making it delightful to read or listen to!
I highly recommend the audiobook, which Meg Sylvan primarily narrates. Her impressive voice acting beautifully brings out Alexis’s emotions. Teddy Hamilton, Tristan Morris, and Aiden Snow narrate the male POV chapters. They all do justice to their characters with their deep, raspy voices.