Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

I have to admit that I had picked up an earlier copy of this book based on a social media review and I was not disappointed! I love this book so much, it's turned into one of my comfort reads if things are crappy. The bonus story was a nice addition and helped with the backstory.

Baldree delivers a lovely "so what happens *after* the big campaign is over" novel. His characters are fully rounded and the plot absolutely works. (Also...COFFEE!!) I was amazed to find out that this is his first novel, the writing is that good. I could see this appealing to low teens and up, although a precocious tween reader might enjoy it as well.

Definitely pick this one up if you like fantasy, D&D, good writing or all of the above!

Hex Twisting by Diana Rajchel

I consider myself to be still learning about Wicca, so am quite open to reading all sorts of Wiccan books. I was taken aback by this at first, having internalized "an it harm none, do as ye will". However, after some deliberation, I can see where this would be a very useful book.

Most Wiccans (and indeed, most people) don't usually wish harm to others, nor seek to do harm. There are some people though...and if you've ever encounted them, Hex Twisting will be an invaluable resource. Rajchel talks about the different kinds of hexes and where you might want to use the different kinds and why.

Rajchel also discusses how you might be able to find out if you've been hexed and counter-hexes to perform. She also discusses general ways to keep you and your space clear of influences.

A good choice for any Wiccan or Pagan library!

#HexTwisting #NetGalley

Be the Serpent by Seanan McGuire

The latest in the October Daye series is another stellar book in the series. McGuire starts to tie off loose ends and solve those nagging bits from the previous books even if you had kind of forgotten about them. (guilty!) I love this series so so much and am always pleasantly surprised at how good it is.

As always, McGuire writes extremely well and tells a good story. Toby and her adventures are a major part of my life and I am always thrilled to read a new story. Included is another story about the Luidaeg, filling in more of her backstory.

As always, NetGalley provided me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

#BetheSerpent #NetGalley

Sam by Allegra Goodman

I loved this book. Sam is a real person in a very real situation. I was immediately invested in Sam’s story and could not put it down. I appreciated that Goodman did not pile on the ‘bad things’, as Sam’s story is heartbreaking enough. Real and nuanced, Sam copes the best she can and makes realistic choices. I saw myself in Sam and I suspect others will too.

I highly recommend this book to YA readers and up.

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

#Sam #NetGalley

Lucky Girl by M. Rickert

Lucky Girl is a jewel of a book. More of a psychological horror than anything else>, this horror novella will keep you guessing until the last page. Tightly written and dreamy, it will stick with you.

I recieved a copy from NetGalley for my honest opinion.

#LuckyGirl #NetGalley

More NetGalley tidying up

"Float Plan" is a sweet read, even if I found it a little unrealistic. I also don't know enough about sailing to speak to that part of the plot, although everything seemed realistic there. Worthwhile reading.

A well-written book about how to be more content with what you have, budgeting and making a good life. Soukup distills her blog into her book and it works well. This is on my personal bookshelf as a reread when I need it.

A simple, easy to follow and well-designed how to build your own outdoor furniture. I'll be going back to this for inspiration and hopefully building my own stuff!

What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher

"What Moves the Dead" is a reimagining of "The Fall of the House of Usher" -- something that I have never read -- but you don't need to have read "Usher" to follow the story. (I would imagine that having read "Usher" gives "Moves" different layers, though.)

T. Kingfisher is one of my absolute must read authors, and usually one of my comfort reads as well (Except for the horror. No rereading those, they're amazing and well-written, just...no.) "Moves" is more unsettling than horrific, it's creepy and atmospheric and very very good. Short, tightly written and a horse that is a horse and not a 'magic horse'.

Another definite recommendation!

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

#WhatMovestheDead #NetGalley