November is not quite over, but I have been powering through my To Be Read in violent efforts to avoid schoolwork. Join my delusion in unpacking my favourite reads of the last month:
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
In this epic fantasy, ‘The Nameless One’ was vanquished 1000 years ago, never to return as long as the House of Berethnet rules… or so they believe. Expansive, magical, with prominent queer characters and complex worldbuilding, this 800+ page beast of a novel vibes with Lord of the Rings or Eragon fans.
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
Is a female body ever its own? This not-so-distant-dystopia reminds us how close we are to a very different society. In the republic of Gilead, birth is sacred and government protected. The protagonist’s entire social responsibility is to bear a child for her Commander’s family. Is this how the world should be? Society says yes. Something inside whispers no. Amidst polarizing political discourse, this novel, with all its depth, is more relevant than ever.
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir
This novel is a nuclear fission between sci-fi, gothic fantasy, lesbain porno mags, and some of the most beautiful prose I have ever read. Nine planets running on necromantic power compete to ascend and serve an immortal emperor. It was incomprehensible. I loved it.
The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren
I read little romance, but this book has ALL the fanfiction tropes with lovable original characters: enemies-to-lovers, a fake relationship to avoid paying for a reall honeymoon… only one bed. The main character is funny but refreshingly self-confident. I read this in an evening (again to avoid work) and had a great time.
Give these books a try! Take care of yourself in this last stretch of the year.
