Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser
I picked this book up after seeing it on a "Most Anticipated Books of 2026" list, but I was skeptical. It's a retelling of Cinderella but from the perspective of the stepmother. I thought it was part of the Disney Villains YA series and was confused as to why it was getting picked up for celebrity … [Read more]
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
This is a searing look at Depression/Dust Bowl/Migrant farmer camps in California, as previously depicted in Steinbeck’s famous Grapes of Wrath, but from the point of view of a woman. Almost as if the famous portrait by Dorothea Lange come to life. Elsa Wolcott, raised in a prosperous Texas … [Read more]
The Enchanted Greenhouse by Sarah Beth Durst
The Enchanted Greenhouse has made me wonder whether cozy romantasy is mostly just about at least a couple of characters working through their issues together is a somewhat healthy way, and catching feelings along with way. No plot necessary. Which might be why The Enchanted Greenhouse barely has … [Read more]
Warriorborn: A Cinder Spires Novella by Jim Butcher
Warriorborn is indeed “A Cinder Spires Novella” (that’s actually the subtitle, hence the quotes). It probably wouldn’t work if you haven’t read both of the novels, or at least the first one, but really probably both. It feels kind of like a bit of backstory that gets cut from the main novel for … [Read more]
Empire of Orgasm: Sex, Power, and the Downfall of a Wellness Cult by Ellen Huet
I have a history being interested in cults and cult-like behaviors, so when Read Harder included a task to read a book about cults, I was excited. I’ve already read The Quiet Damage this year and have a couple others lined up, including Empire of Orgasm: Sex, Power, and the Downfall of a Wellness … [Read more]
Game of Rogues by Julie Anne Long
4.5 stars Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for this ARC. My opinions are my own. This book is out on June 3rd, 2026. Genevieve "Ginny" Woodville travels alone and unchaperoned to London to confront the man known as "The Reaper", Gabriel Marchand, owner of one of the most exclusive gentlemen's … [Read more]
