Category: Book Haul

Book Haul – 10 April 2023

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I have been having an absolutely fantastic couple of weeks for book, as I have been lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from some of my local publishers.  These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including some books that have the potential to be the top novels of 2023.  I am extremely keen to check out all of the books below and they should make for some amazing reads.

Star Wars: Battle Scars by Sam Maggs

Star Wars - Battle Scars Cover

First up, I recently received a copy of the cool new Star Wars novel, Battle Scars by Sam Maggs.  A tie-in to the Star Wars Jedi video games, Battle Scars is being released in conjunction with Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, and serves as a bridging novel between it and the first game, Fallen Order.  This should be an outstanding book for fans of the games and I look forward to seeing what interesting story Sam Maggs has come up with.

Amazon

 

Death Under a Little Sky by Stig Abell

Death Under a Little Sky Cover

The next book I received a copy of was Death Under a Little Sky by Stig Abell.  This is Abell’s debut novel and sees a London detective trying to retire in the country until he uncovers a dark murder in his new small town.  This sounds like a fun take on classic British crime fiction novels and I will be interested to see both the murder mystery and the changing settings within the book.

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Homecoming by Kate Morton

Homecoming Cover

An intriguing, multi-generational mystery novel by a talented Australian author, this will no doubt be an excellent read.

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Search History by Amy Taylor

Search History Cover

Australian author Amy Taylor makes her unique fiction debut with Search History, which sees a woman get obsessed with diving into her new boyfriend’s history online, only to discover a dark secret about his past relationships.  This sounds like a very fun book that will no doubt critique our overuse of social media.

Amazon

 

Ascension by Nicholas Binge

Ascension Cover

A freaky and compelling science fiction thriller that follows a group of scientists sent to investigate a mysterious mountain that rose out of the ocean, only to discover dark secrets and dangerous self-reflection.  I am very curious to see what happens in Ascension and it sounds like quite the fascinating read.

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The next several books are all ones I received in advance through NetGalley.  This is actually the first time I have really used NetGalley (I know, I’m behind the times), and I am loving that I got early copies of several outstanding books.

 

Witch King by Martha Wells

Witch King Cover

I was very happy to get an early copy of one of the hottest upcoming fantasy books of 2023 with Witch King by Martha Wells.  Wells is such a beloved author at the moment and I am very intrigued to read one of her books, especially this one which follows a trapped demon who finds himself at the mercy of a lowly mage as he tries to remember how he got into this situation. This sounds like such a fun and awesome book and I look forward to diving into it soon.

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Killer Traitor Spy by Tim Ayliffe

Killer Traitor Spy Cover

Another upcoming book I was particularly pleased to get a copy of is Killer Traitor Spy by Australian author Tim Ayliffe.  The fourth book in his John Bailey series, Killer Traitor Spy once again dives into international espionage in Australian politics, this time with a focus on the lasting impact of the Cold War.  I have deeply enjoyed Ayliffe’s previous books, including The Greater Good, State of Fear and The Enemy Within, and I look forward to seeing how his next book turns out.

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The Tyrant Skies by David Annandale

The Tyrant Skies Cover

I also decided to dive into the world of tie-in novels associated with Marvel Comics, which included getting a copy of The Tyrant Skies by David Annandale. This book will see everyone’s favourite villain, Doctor Doom, take on the insidious Red Skull in a battle for dominance and control. I know I am going to love this epic book and I am hoping to dive into it soon.

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Mockingbird: Strike Out by Maria Lewis

Mockingbird - Strike Out Cover

I also grabbed a copy of the fun sounding book Mockingbird: Strike Out by Maria Lewis.  This intriguing novel will follow the great character of Bobbie Morse, AKA Mockingbird, as she travels to England to investigate a world-ending plot.  This should be another fantastic read and I look forward to diving into the Marvel canon with this outstanding sounding read.

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Well, that’s the end of this latest Book Haul post.  As you can see I have quite a bit of reading to do at the moment thanks to all these awesome books that have come in.  Let me know which of the above you are most interested in and make sure to check back in a few weeks to see my reviews of them.

Book Haul – 27 March 2023

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It’s been a while since I’ve done a Book Haul post so I figured I would try quickly update everyone on all the awesome books I have recently received.  I have been having a great couple of weeks for book, as I have been lucky enough to receive several amazing new novels from some of my local publishers, and I have even more on the way.  These include some truly awesome new releases, including some of the top releases from 2023.  I am extremely keen to check out all of the books below and they should make for some amazing reads.

Fatal Legacy by Lindsey Davis

Fatal Legacy Cover

Another epic entry in one of my favourite historical fiction series, Fatal Legacy will see Lindsey Davis’ outstanding protagonist, Flavia Albia, attempt to uncover a tricky and deadly legal situation in ancient Rome.  This has the potential to be one of the best books of 2023 and I am very excited for it.

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Echo Lake by Joan Sauers

Echo Laker Cover

An intriguing Australian crime fiction read from Joan Sauers that sounds quite compelling.  I look forward to unwinding Sauers’ complex mystery set in the Southern Tablelands of Australia. 

 Book Depository

 

The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz

The Writing Retreat Cover

Murder and death at a mysterious horror writing retreat in the remote wilds, if that isn’t a great setting for a fun horror book, I don’t know what is.

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Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson

Tress of the Emerald Seas Cover

I was very excited to receive a new standalone novel from Brandon Sanderson with Tress of the Emerald Sea.  Part of his massive Cosmere shared universe, Tress of the Emerald Sea is an elaborate fantasy book that apparently has some similarities to The Princess Bride.  I look forward to diving into this captivating tale and I am sure it is going to be magical in all the right ways.

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The Blind Spots by Thomas Mullen

The Blind Spots Cover

One of the books I am particularly glad I got a copy of is The Blind Spots by Thomas Mullen.  A high concept murder mystery set in a world where everyone went blind, The Blind Spots sounds like will be a pretty epic read and I look forward to seeing both Mullen’s compelling mystery and the intriguing new world he envisions.

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Ozark Dogs by Eli Cranor

Ozark Dogs Cover

Chaos, gunfights and extreme family feuds all set within the confines of a deadly Ozark junkyard, this should be a pretty awesome read and I can’t wait to dive into it.

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Silver in the Bone by Alexandra Bracken

Silver in the Bone Cover

I was very happy to receive a copy of Silver in the Bone, the latest fantasy novel from Alexandra Bracken. Featuring a fantastic sounding tale with some intriguing Arthurian elements to it, Silver in the Bone should be an amazing read and I particularly love that cool cover it has.

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Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Fourth Wing Cover

A compelling new fantasy read from Rebecca Yarros that will see a fragile women forced to enroll in a deadly dragon academy where everything wants to kill her.  I love a great magical school scenario and I can’t wait to see what happens in this awesome sounding book.

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Well, that’s the end of this latest Book Haul post.  As you can see I have quite a bit of reading to do at the moment thanks to all these awesome books that have come in.  Let me know which of the above you are most interested in and make sure to check back in a few weeks to see my reviews of them.

Book Haul – Second-Hand Books

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In addition to all the recent books I have received, I’ve also done a bit of second-hand book shopping that I want to talk about.  Not only did I majorly clean up at an awesome second-hand bookstore in the Blue Mountains, but I also scored big at the recent Canberra Lifeline Bookfair (a great event to check out if you’re ever in Canberra).  I honestly probably went overboard with some of the books I picked up, but the end result is a pretty awesome collection of older books, including some fantasy classics I have been keen to read for a while, and a ton of Warhammer fiction to fuel my current major obsession.  So let us see what epic second-hand books I managed to obtain.

The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

The Lies of Locke Lamora Cover

I managed to grab a copy of the epic fantasy crime-fiction novel, The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch.  I have actually already read this book before (on audiobook), but I wanted to quickly re-read it before doing a Throwback Thursday review in the future.

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Ashes of Prospero by Gav Thorpe

Ashes of Prospero Cover

The first of many Warhammer 40,000 novels I managed to grab, Ashes of Prospero is an epic Space Marine focused read that see the Space Wolves return to Prospero, the ravaged planet of their greatest enemy

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13th Legion and Kill Team by Gav Thorpe

13th Legion Cover 2

I was extremely happy to get a copy of the first two Last Chancers novels by Gav Thorpe, which I have been trying to get for a while. Essentially billed as The Dirty Dozen in space, the Last Chancers are an epic series and I’ve actually already read and reviewed the first book, 13th Legion, in the last week, and it was everything I hoped it would be.

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Temeraire by Naomi Novik

Temeraire

After enjoying some of her previous books, I decided to grab a copy of iconic fantasy author Naomi Novik’s first novel, Temeraire.  An alternate history novel that imagines the Napoleonic Wars fought with dragons, I have heard some great things about this series and look forward to seeing how fun they actually are.

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Gotrex and Felix – The Third and Fourth Omnibus – by William King and Nathan Long

Gotrek and Felix - Third Omnibus - Cover

Of all the Warhammer Fantasy series out there, few have been as iconic and epic as the Gotrek and Felix novels by William King and later continued by Nathan Long.  Following a suicidal dwarf slayer and his human companion, the Gotrek and Felix books are some of the best books in the Warhammer range and I have been having a lot of fun getting through the first several (see my reviews for Trollslayer, Skavenslayer, Daemonslayer, Dragonslayer, Beastslayer and Vampireslayer).  As such, I was extremely pleased when I managed to get the third and fourth omnibuses of the series that contain the next six books I need to read.  I cannot wait to dive into these epic fantasy reads, and I know I am going to have a ton of fun with them.

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Space Wolf series – Ragnar’s Claw, Grey Hunter and Space Wolf: The Second Omnibus by William King and Lee Lightner

Space Wolf Cover

Another series that I got a ton of books for in my recent second-hand book hunt are the next five novels in the iconic Space Wolf series of Warhammer 40,000 fiction.  I deeply enjoyed the first book, Space Wolf, last year, and it was pretty epic to find good copies of the next several entries, including the single copies of Ragnar’s Claw and Grey Hunter, as well as the second Space Wolf omnibus.  This should set me up with some cool space viking adventures I will ever need and I can’t wait to continue this fantastic series.

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Ulrika the Vampire – Bloodborn by Bloodforged by Nathan Long

Bloodborn Cover

I’m always happy for some cool Warhammer Fantasy vampire fiction and few vampire series sound better than the Ulrika the Vampire books by Nathan Long.  A spin-off of the Gortek and Felix books, Bloodborn and Bloodforged will follow recent vampire convert Ulrika as she comes to terms with her condition and new place in society.

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   Helsreach by Aaron Dembski-Bowden

Helsreach Cover

There was no way I could resist an epic novel about orks versus the Black Templar Space Marines on the planet of Armageddon, which is going to result in quite an epic read.

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Hunt for Voldorius by Andy Hoare

Hunt for Voldorius Cover

Another Space Marines focused novel, Hunt for Voldorius will see the White Scars and their allies go to war to kill an evil Daemon Prince.

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Death & Dishonour, edited by Alex Davis, Nick Kyme and Lindsey Priestley

Death & Dishonour Cover

A cool Warhammer Fantasy short story anthology that should make for quite an interesting and fun read.

Amazon

 

Soul Drinkers Series – Soul Drinker, The Bleeding Chalice, Crimson Tears and Chapter War by Ben Counter

Soul Drinkers Cover

I was very pleased to grab the first four books in Ben Counter’s iconic Soul Drinkers series, which I have heard some excellent things about.  Following the doomed Soul Drinkers chapter of Space Marines as they attempt to save themselves from corruption and mutation, only to be declared heretics and traitors by the Imperium.  I have had a lot of fun with Ben Counter’s books in the past (such as Van Horstmann) and I have a feeling this is going to be an outstanding and great series that I am going to really love.

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Shira Calpurnia series – Crossfire, Legacy and Blind by Matthew Farrer

Shira Calpurnia Cover

The last addition to my collection I got during my second-hand book foray was all three Shira Calpurnia books by Matthew Farrer.  An intriguing Warhammer 40,000 series that follows a member of the Arbites, intergalactic space cops, these books look set to blend crime fiction with high-concept Warhammer 40,000 elements.  I am very interested in checking these books out and I think I will have a great deal of fun doing so.

Amazon

 

That’s the end of my post and as you can see, I have managed to grab quite a few second-hand books in recent weeks, perhaps too many if that’s a thing.  All of the above sound pretty epic to me and I cannot wait to dive into all of them in time.  This will probably be a bit of a lengthy process, so make sure to check back over the next year or so to see how I do.

Book Haul – 27 February 2023

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It’s been a while since I’ve done a Book Haul post so I figured I would try quickly update everyone on all the awesome books I have recently received.  I have been having a great couple of weeks for book, as I have been lucky enough to receive several amazing new novels from some of my local publishers.  These include some truly awesome new releases, including some of the top releases from 2023.  I am extremely keen to check out all of the books below and they should make for some amazing reads.

Unnatural History by Jonathan Kellerman

Unnatural History Cover 2

The first book I recently received was the latest Jonathan Kellerman novel, Unnatural History.  Part of the amazing Alex Delaware crime fiction series, which I have been having an outstanding time reading in recent years (check out my reviews for The Wedding Guest, The Museum of Desire, Serpentine and City of the Dead), Unnatural History sounds like another epic novel with a great mystery behind it.  Set to see the series’ fun detective duo dive into the murder of a controversial photographer, this should be an excellent read and I am hoping to start reading it next.

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How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix

How to Sell a Haunted House Cover

The next book I received was the highly anticipated horror read, How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix.  Hendrix is an intriguing author who has been wowing audiences with his cool horror novels that deconstruct the genre with impactful and impressive narratives.  I had a great time with his 2021 novel, The Final Girl Support Group, and I was very happy when I received a copy of How to Sell a Haunted House.  As the name suggests, this will be Hendrix’s unique take on the Haunted House sub-genre of horror fiction and I look forward to seeing what elaborate and fun story this latest book contains.

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Lenny Marks Gets Away With Murder by Kerryn Mayne

Lenny Marks Gets Away With Murder Cover

An intriguing debut from Australian author Kerryn Mayne, Lenny Marks Gets Away With Murder is a fun sounding novel that will follow an unusual protagonist as she dives into the great mystery of her past and the dark reasons why her mother left her.  I have a feeling that Lenny Marks Gets Away With Murder is going to be a particularly compelling debut and I am very interested in seeing what unique story that Mayne has come up with.

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The Last Highway by R. J. Ellory

The Last Highway Cover

An exciting and striking thriller that will see a vengeful sheriff attempt to find out who murdered his estranged brother amongst the Appalachian Mountains.  I have heard great things about Ellory in the past and I cannot wait to see what fun and powerful story waits for me in The Last Highway.

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The Half Burnt House by Alex North

The Half Burnt House Cover

A gritty and powerful psychological thriller that sees a woman attempt to save her brother from himself and the dangerous secrets from the past that threaten both of them.  This sounds like a very dark read and I am curious to finally try out North’s writing style.

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Bunny by S. E. Tolsen

Bunny Cover

The final book I received is an advanced copy of the fascinating upcoming horror thriller, Bunny.  Written by author S. E. Tolsen (the pen name of husband-and-wife team Emma Olsen and Vere Tindale), Bunny will see a damaged man return to his family home to confront the demons of his past, including his abusive Aunt Bunny and a mysterious presence in the woods.  I don’t have a lot of extra details about this book at the moment, but I am very curious about Bunny and I will have to read it to see what happens.

 

Well, that’s the end of this latest Book Haul post.  As you can see I have quite a bit of reading to do at the moment thanks to all these awesome books that have come in.  Let me know which of the above you are most interested in and make sure to check back in a few weeks to see my reviews of them.

Book Haul – 2 February 2023

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It’s been a while since I’ve done a Book Haul post so I figured I would try quickly update everyone on all the awesome books I have recently received.  I have been having an absolutely fantastic weeks for book, as I have been lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from some of my local publishers.  These include some truly awesome new releases, including some of the top releases from 2023.  I am extremely keen to check out all of the books below and they should make for some amazing reads.

Burner by Mark Greaney

Burner Cover

The first book that I recently received is Burner, the latest Gray Man novel from the master of the spy thriller Mark Greaney.  This is one of my most anticipated books of 2023 and I cannot wait to see what crazy adventure the character ends up in.

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Downfall by Louise Carey

Downfall Cover

The next book I have received is the epic cyperpunk thriller from intriguing new author Louise Carey, Downfall, which follows on from the outstanding novels, Inscape and Outcast and wraps up the very cool Inscape series.  I am currently reading Downfall at the moment and it is proving to be an excellent and deeply enjoyable read.

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Dead of Night by Simon Scarrow

Dead of Night Cover

One of my favourite historical fiction authors Simon Scarrow returns with another fantastic historical murder mystery Dead of Night.  Following on from the awesome book, Blackout, Dead of Night sees the last honest cop in Berlin try to solve a series of murders against the wishes of his Nazi masters.  I always have an outstanding time with Scarrow’s writing, so I know I am going to love this book.

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The Voyage of the Forgotten by Nick Martell 

The Voyage of the Forgotten Cover

I also received a physical copy of the new Nick Martell book, The Voyage of the Forgotten.  I actually listened to the audiobook version of this book last year, and it ended up being one of the best books I enjoyed in 2022, although I really need to get a review up for it soon.  However, it is nice to get a paperback copy of this book ahead of the Australian release, especially with that stunning cover.

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Fire With Fire by Candice Fox

Fire With Fire Cover

One of Australia’s best murder mystery writers, Candice Fox, returns with another intriguing crime fiction novel, Fire With Fire.  Following two desperate parents who hold a LAPD crime lab hostage in order to find out what happened to their daughter, Fire With Fire sounds pretty damn awesome and I look forward to reading it.

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The Last Orphan by Gregg Hurwitz

The Last Orphan Cover 2

My year wouldn’t be complete without another entry in the epic Orphan X series, so I was very excited to get a copy of Hurwitz’s new book, The Last Orphan.  Following Hurwtiz’s government assassin turned vigilante as he is forced to participate in one more mission for the president, The Last Orphan promises to be pretty exceptional and I look forward to reading it.

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I Will Find You by Harlan Coben

I Will Find You Cover

One of the major crime fiction authors who I have never had a chance to read before is the highly regarded bestselling writer, Harlan Coben, who has been killing it recently with amazing books.  I managed to get an early copy of his new novel, I Will Find You, and I am hoping to read it next, not only to experience Coben’s writing style, but also because it has an amazing plot behind it of a man escaping prison to find the son he is accused of murdering.  I cannot wait to get to the bottom of this cool mystery and I am sure I will love it.

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The Tyranny of Faith by Richard Swan

The Tyranny of Faith Cover

Richard Swan follows up his beloved 2022 novel, The Justice of Kings, with the intriguing sequel The Tyranny of Faith, which sees the series’ supernatural lawmen attempt to unwrap political intrigue in the capital.  I had a wonderful time with the first book and I cannot wait to see how Swan follows it up.

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3 Days to Live by James Patterson

3 Days to Live Cover

I have really been enjoying some of James Patterson’s fantastic novels lately, so I was very happy when I received a copy of his short story collection 3 Days to Live.  Featuring three intriguing short stories, each of which contains its own unique crime, 3 Days to Live is sure to be an exceptional read and I am hoping to dive into soon.

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The Helpdesk by Shane Dunphy

The Helpdesk Cover

A fun sounding thriller about a husband and wife duo who lose everything due to a sinister help-desk agent.

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How to Kill a Client by Joanna Jenkins

How to Kill a Client Cover

A compelling debut from Australian author Joanna Jenkins, How to Kill a Client sounds like an amazing book and I look forward to checking it out.

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In the Upper Country by Kai Thomas

In the Upper Country Cover

A moving historical fiction novel about an escaped slave on trial for murdering a bounty hunter in Canada.  This book is set to dive into the Underground Railroad, and more, and I look forward to finding out more about this fascinating piece of history.

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Spice Road by Maiya Ibrahim

Spice Road Cover

Another awesome debut novel I recently picked up was the compelling young adult fantasy novel, Spice Road, by Australian author Maiya Ibrahim. Set in a magical desert kingdom, Spice Road will follow a desperate magical warrior as she tries to find her rogue brother and regain her reputation.  An epic sounding read that I am very intrigued to try out.

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The Ugly Truth by L. C. North

The Ugly Truth Cover

Another outstanding 2023 debut is the twisty and unique crime fiction read The Ugly Truth by L. C. North.  This tricky novel will dive into the troubled lives of celebrities and follow a unique drama as the whole world watches.  I love the concept behind this book and I am sure it is going to be an outstsanding read.

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Promise Boys by Nick Brooks

Promise Boys Cover

The final book on this list is the compelling and insightful young adult murder mystery, Promise Boys by Nick Brooks.  Following three troubled teen boys who must find out who really killed their principal, Promise Boys dives into a ton of tough topics and should prove to be both exciting and moving.

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Well, that’s the end of this latest Book Haul post.  As you can see I have quite a bit of reading to do at the moment thanks to all these awesome books that have come in.  Let me know which of the above you are most interested in and make sure to check back in a few weeks to see my reviews of them.

Book Haul – 19 December 2022

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I have been having an absolutely fantastic weeks for book, as I have been lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from some of my local publishers.  These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including some exceptional upcoming releases from 2023.  I am extremely keen to check out all of the books below and they should make for some amazing reads.

Headcase by Jack Heath

Headcase Cover

The first book I recently received was the epic new Hangman novel by Canberran author Jack Heath, Headcase, which I have already had the very great pleasure of reading.  The fourth book in the Hangman series, which previously featured Hideout, Headcase continues to follow the escapades of Timothy Blake a crazed cannibal and brilliant investigator, who is dragged into a CIA investigation of a dead Chinese astronaut found in the NASA complex at Housten.  Heath, who also wrote the impressive book, Kill Your Brother (one of my favourite Australian books of 2021), did a remarkable job with Headcase and the ensuing mystery is particularly clever and compelling.  Throw in some excellent characters with some very distinctive quirks, and this was an outstanding read.  I was also very happy that my review for Hideout was quoted at the front of the book, and I am hoping to get my review for Headcase up very soon.

Headcase Front Reviews

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Red Winter by Marc Cameron (Based on the works of Tom Clancy)

Red Winter Cover

I also recently received and read the fantastic new Jack Ryan book by Marc Cameron, Red Winter.  A new addition to the expanded universe originally started by Tom Clancy, Red Winter presents a whole new Cold War adventure for Jack Ryan, this time taking him to East Berlin as he attempts to recruit a Stasi agent with knowledge of stolen military secrets.  Red Winter is an excellent and very exciting spy thriller and I had a wonderful time getting my first taste of Clancy’s espionage universe.

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Red Dirt Road by S. R. White

Red Dirt Road Cover

I was particularly happy to receive a copy of the 2023 Australian crime fiction novel, Red Dirt Road by S. R. White.  The sequel to White’s first two novels, Hermit and Prisoner, Red Dirt Road will bring back his excellent detective protagonist and set her to investigate another compelling outback murder.  This time, the detective is trapped in a remote, outback town and must figure out who killed two people when everyone she meets is a potential suspect.  I am sure that this is going to be an epic read and I can’t wait to dive into it soon.

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Hunting Time by Jeffery Deaver

Hunting Time Cover

Next, we have the cool sounding thriller by iconic author Jeffrey Deaver, Hunting Time.  The fourth book to feature Deaver’s intriguing protagonist, Colter Shaw, Hunting Time sees Shaw attempting to find and save a woman and her daughter who are on the run from her abusive ex-husband and two deadly hitmen.  However, his new target doesn’t want to be found and it will take all of Shaw’s skills to work through her many tricks and evasion strategies, hopefully before the monsters chasing her finally catch up.  I love the sound of this great book, especially as it will follow multiple people taking part in the same hunt, and I imagine this is going to be a pretty epic read.

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The House of Now and Then by Jo Dixon

The House of Now and Then Cover

Another great 2023 Australian novel I recently received is the unique debut from new author Jo Dixon, The House of Now and Then. Featuring a combination mystery/drama narrative, The House of Now and Then will see a haunted woman, hiding from her own past, dive into the history of the house she is sheltering in, and attempt to work out what happened to the three young people who lived there 30 years before.  This will no doubt be a compelling and deeply moving piece of Australian fiction and I look forward to reading it in the new year.

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Cold People by Tom Rob Smith

Cold People Cover

Perhaps one of the most intriguing novels I recently received is the fantastic science fiction thriller, Cold People by Tom Rob Smith.  After Earth falls to a mysterious, alien force, humanity is given 30 days to reach shelter in the one place humans will be allowed to exist, Antarctica.  Following a handful of people who take this journey, Cold People looks set to be a powerful and epic read which will feature a particularly distinctive and awesome setting.  I am already quite intrigued by this compelling book and I can’t wait to dive into it soon.

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Going Zero by Anthony McCarten

Going Zero Cover

I was also very lucky to grab an advanced proof of the very cool sounding science fiction thriller, Going Zero by award winnning screenwriter Anthony McCarten.  Going Zero has a very awesome story to it that sees 10 people attempt to go off the grid and hide from a new piece of advanced spyware for a big monetary prize.  However, when one participant proves particularly adept at hiding from the technology, the company behind it will put everything they have into finding her before she ruins their potential billion dollar contract. I love the idea of this exceptional sounding book, especially as it reminds me a bit of that reality show Hunted, and I am hoping to read this very soon.

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A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon

A Day of Fallen Night Cover

The final book I recently received is the awesome fantasy novel A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon.  The prequel to her epic novel, The Priory of the Orange Tree, A Day of Fallen Night will return to her world of dragons and follow all new conflicts and wars.  A massive book with an elaborate story (and an exceptional cover), A Day of Fallen Night is sure to be one of the more popular fantasy releases of 2023, and I am hoping that I will be able to fit this into my reading schedule.

Amazon     Book Depository

Well, that’s the end of this latest Book Haul post.  As you can see I have quite a bit of reading to do at the moment thanks to all these awesome books that have come in.  Let me know which of the above you are most interested in and make sure to check back in a few weeks to see my reviews of them.

Book Haul – 22 November 2022

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I have been having an absolutely fantastic week for book, as I have been lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from some of my local publishers.  These novels include some truly awesome new releases, some of which rank amongst my top books of 2022.  I am extremely keen to check out all of the books below and they should make for some amazing reads.

Death to the Emperor by Simon Scarrow

Death to the Emperor Cover

The first book I recently received was the latest historical epic from the master of Roman historical fiction, Simon Scarrow, with Death to the Emperor.  The 21st book in his amazing Eagles of the Emperor series (which has previously featured such awesome reads like The Blood of Rome, Traitors of Rome, The Emperor’s Exile and The Honour of Rome), Death to the Emperor puts Scarrow’s long-running protagonists in the middle of Boudica’s rebellion in Britannia.  I have actually already read this amazing book and it proved to be particularly captivating and action-packed.  Review to follow soon.

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Retribution by Sarah Barrie

Retribution Cover

Next up is the outstanding Australian thriller Retribution by Sarah Barrie.  A sequel to Barrie’s dark 2021 read, Unforgiven, Retribution presents several intriguing, interlocked cases that tie into the events of the last book and sees her maverick protagonist once again try to take down the deadly antagonist from Unforgiven. I have already started reading this fantastic novel and I can’t wait to see how the various cases unfold.

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Usagi Yojimbo: Volume 37: Crossroads by Stan Sakai

Usagi Yojimbo - Crossroads Cover

I was exceedingly happy to receive a copy of the new Usagi Yojimbo volume, Crossroads, this week.  As most readers will know, I am a massive fan of Stan Sakai’s outstanding Usagi Yojimbo comic series, and I was extremely happy that Sakai released a second volume this year.  Crossroads, which I read the second it was delivered, is another amazing read with two epic stories to them.  Loaded with action, incredible artwork and fantastic characters, this was another impressive outing from Sakai that I had a wonderful time reading.

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Silver Queendom by Dan Koboldt

Silver Queendom Cover

The next book I was lucky enough to receive is the fantastic and fun fantasy novel, Silver Queendom by Dan Koboldt.  I absolutely love the sound of Silver Queendom which sees a scrappy group of conman attempt to pull off an impossible heist to save their skins.  There is nothing about this book’s plot that I do not love, and I am very excited to see how this fantasy heist novel pays off.  I already know I am going to have an awesome time with this book, and I am hoping to check it out next.

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The Resemblance by Lauren Nossett

The Resemblance Cover

I was also lucky enough to receive a copy of a fantastic new debut novel with The Resemblance by Lauren Nossett.  Set in a college town, this book will see a police detective dive into the corrupt world of fraternities and sororities as she attempts to solve a curious murder of a college student run over by someone who looks exactly like him.  This sounds like quite an intriguing read, and I look forward to diving into this elaborate case, which will no doubt provide some interesting insights into the crazy world of elite university students.

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Private Beijing by James Patterson and Adam Hamdy

Private Beijing Cover

I have been getting a few James Patterson books recently, and the latest is the compelling Private Beijing, which Patterson cowrote with Adam Hamdy.  This is the 17th book in Patterson’s The Private series which follows a group of private investigators, and his latest book will see the Beijing office of the agency come under attack, forcing Private’s leader, Jack Morgan, into action.  I haven’t had a chance to check out this series before, but I am very keen to try now, especially as this sounds like quite a fun spy thriller.  I look forward to getting through more of Patterson’s books this year and I am sure I am in for an excellent time with Private Beijing.

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Judgement Day by Mali Waugh

Judgement Day Cover

The final book I received a copy of is the awesome 2023 Australian thriller, Judgement Day, by new author Mali Waugh. The debut novel from Waugh, Judgement Day will see a detective investigate the murder of judge, which will bring her to the dark heart of the local legal system.  I am already quite intrigued by this upcoming novel, and I am very excited to already have a copy of this Australian crime fiction debut.

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Well, that’s the end of this latest Book Haul post.  As you can see I have quite a bit of reading to do at the moment thanks to all these awesome books that have come in.  Let me know which of the above you are most interested in and make sure to check back in a few weeks to see my reviews of them.

Book Haul – 13 November 2022

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I have been having an absolutely fantastic weeks for book, as I have been lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from some of my local publishers.  These novels include some truly awesome new releases, some of which rank amongst my top books of 2022.  I am extremely keen to check out all of the books below and they should make for some amazing reads.

Star Wars: The High Republic: Convergence by Zoraida Cordova

Star Wars - Convergence Cover

The first book I recently received was the awesome Star Wars novel, Convergence by Zoraida Cordova.  The first adult book in the second phase of The High Republic sub-series, Convergence looks set to be one of the major books of this franchise, providing a major introduction to the wider galaxy in the prequel era while also showcasing some of the key new characters and concepts. I only just finished the very first book in this second phase, Path of Deceit, and it has gotten me pretty excited for the upcoming High Republic offerings.  I can’t wait to see what happens in Convergence, and I have a feeling it is going to be quite an impressive read.

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Friends Like These by Jennifer Lynn Alvarez

Friends Like These Cover 2

I was very excited to receive a copy of the intense young adult thriller, Friends Like These by Jennifer Lynn Alvarerz.  I had an absolutely wonderful time reading Alvarez’s 2021 novel, Lies Like Wildfire, which was one of my favourite debuts of last year.  Friends Like These will contain another intriguing narrative around teenagers making terrible mistakes that lead to murder. This time centered around the consequences of a beach party where a viral video prank gets everyone in trouble, Friends Like These promises to be an exceptional read, and I reckon I’ll try to dive into it next.

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The Prisoner by B. A. Paris

The Prisoner by B. A. Paris Cover

One of the more intriguing books I recently received was the compelling psychological thriller, The Prisoner by acclaimed author B. A. Paris.  Set to follow a woman who knows plenty about survival, The Prisoner will see the protagonist kidnapped by mysterious captors, who lock her in a pitch-black room.  However, as the ordeal continues, the protagonist finds herself feeling safe, especially as it keeps her away from her husband.  I’m very, very curious about this book, mainly because I’m not entirely sure how it is going to unfold.  I am imagining that this is going to be a super-twisty read, and I look forward to seeing just how dark and complex it turns out to be.

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The Warrior by Stephen Aryan

The Warrior Cover

I was very happy to receive a copy of The Warrior by Stephen Aryan in the last week, which will continue an excellent narrative from a talented author.  The sequel to one of the more entertaining fantasy books of 2021, The Coward, The Warrior will see the protagonist, traumatized hero turned reluctant king, Kell, travel off on another lethal adventure, this time to help a friend. I loved the first book in this clever duology last year and I have no doubt that Aryan has another exciting and heartfelt adventure waiting for us in this cool sequel.

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Dead Man’s Hand by James J. Butcher

Dead Man's Hand Cover

Out of all the books I have recently received, the one that I am particularly curious and excited for is Dead Man’s Hand, and that is mainly because of its author, James J. Butcher.  Butcher is the son of legendary fantasy author, Jim Butcher, and he is breaking into the family business by starting his own urban fantasy series.  Dead Man’s Hand is a very cool sounding book that sees a mediocre witch forced to investigate a murder of one of his powerful peers in order to prove his innocence.  Featuring a very interesting narrative and a cool cover, I have a feeling that I am going to enjoy Dead Man’s Hand and I look forward to finding out how Butcher’s first book turns out.

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The Perfect Assassin by James Patterson and Brian Sitts

The Perfect Assassin Cover

The final book I recently received is the awesomely titled novel, The Perfect Assassin, written by the fantastic team of James Patterson and Brian Stills.  I have been having an incredible time with some of the recent novels Patterson has cowritten, such as 2 Sisters Detective Agency and Death of the Black Widow, and I am looking forward to reading this next one, especially as it has quite an intriguing plot to it.  Connected to classic pulp character, Doc Savage, this book will apparently follow a university professor who is kidnapped by a mysterious woman, who seeks to mold him into something very different.  I am very intrigued by this interesting novel, and I have a feeling The Perfect Assassin is going to be a very entertaining, if slightly bonkers read, and I can’t wait to see how it connects to the old-school adventures from the 1930s.

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Well, that’s the end of this latest Book Haul post.  As you can see I have quite a bit of reading to do at the moment thanks to all these awesome books that have come in.  Let me know which of the above you are most interested in and make sure to check back in a few weeks to see my reviews of them.

Book Haul – 30 October 2022

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It has been a while since I have done a Book Haul post, but seeing that I received several interesting books recently, I thought I would quickly do one to highlight some of the best novels I have gotten in the last few weeks.  Each of the below books sound extremely cool and captivating, and I cannot wait to see how they all turn out.

Desert Star by Michael Connelly

Desert Star Cover

The first book I have recently received is the latest fantastic crime fiction novel from the legendary Michael Connelly, Desert Star.  This new Connelly book brings back two of the author’s best protagonists, Renee Ballard and Harry Bosch, for another intense investigation, this time focusing on cold case that has haunted Bosch for years.  These two characters have had some amazing team-ups in books like Dark Sacred Night, The Night Fire and The Dark Hours, and I am excited to see how this next investigation turns out.  Based on my experience with Connelly, Desert Star easily has the potential to be one of the best crime fiction books of 2022 and I will pretty much be reading it the moment I finish putting up this book haul post.

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The Boys from Biloxi by John Grisham

The Boys from Biloxi Cover

From one crime fiction legend to another, the next book I have recently received is the new John Grisham novel, The Boys from Biloxi.  I haven’t had as much experience with Grisham’s novels as I would have liked, but I did really enjoy his last two books, The Judge’s List and Sparring Partners.  As such, I am very intrigued by this new release, which will apparently focus on a long-running feud between two families, which will force two friends to face each other in the courtroom.  Sure to contain an intense and deeply captivating narrative, I love the sound of The Boys from Biloxi and I think it has a great deal of potential.

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The Bookseller of Inverness by S. G. MacLean

The Bookseller of Inverness Cover

After finishing off her Damian Seeker series, one of the most impressive authors of historical crime fiction, S. G. MacLean returns with an exciting new novel, The Bookseller of Inverness.  This book will follow a fugitive Scottish rebel turned simple bookseller who finds themselves amid murders and conspiracies after their identity is discovered.  I love the idea of a conflicted former rebel forced to investigate a murder in the middle of Inverness while secrets from his past are revealed, and I cannot wait to see how this novel unfolds.  I deeply enjoyed MacLean’s previous series, including Destroying Angel and The Bear Pit, and I am glad I managed to get a copy of her latest book.

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The Tilt by Chris Hammer

The Tilt Cover

I have been meaning to read some of Chris Hammer’s books for a while now.  One of the leading authors of Australian crime fiction, Hammer has always been an author I’ve meant to read, but never had the time.  2022 might be the year that finally changes as I just got a copy of his latest book, The Tilt.  This new book will see a detective return to the small town she grew up in, to investigate a cold case.  However, the case becomes far more personal for her, especially when it appears that her family might be involved in the killing.  I have been having a wonderful time with Australian fiction this year and I am very hopeful that The Tilt will continue that trend.

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The Girl From Guernica by Karen Robards

The Girl from Guernica Cover

I was very intrigued when I received a copy of the awesome sounding historical drama, The Girl from Guernica by Karen Robards. Set during World War II, The Girl from Guernica will follow a vengeful Spanish girl who joins the resistance against the Nazis after her mother is killed and embarks on a deadly game to get revenge.  I love the cool plot synopsis associated with this book and I have no doubt I will have an amazing time reading it.

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Firefly: What Makes Us Mighty by M. K. England

Firefly - What Makes Us Mighty Cover

There has been some truly amazing tie-in novels and comics associated with the iconic Firefly television series in recent years, and I have been lucky enough to read them all so far.  The latest offering for us Firefly fans is the new tie-in novel, What Makes Us Mighty by M. K. England, which sees the crew of Serenity forced into another deadly situation when a job goes south.  I always have a lot of fun when reading Firefly books and I look forward to seeing this new author’s take on the excellent characters from the show.

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Star Wars: Crimson Reign by Charles Soule and Steven Cummings

Star Wars - Crimson Reign Cover

I have also splashed out recently for some cool new comics, including several great Star Wars comics.  This includes the second entry in the Crimson Dawn series of comics, Crimson Reign, written by one of the leading architects Star Wars fiction at the moment, Charles Soule. Crimson Reign follows the recently renewed Crimson Dawn crime syndicate, who are determined to make their mark on the galaxy by taking down Emperor Palpatine and Darth Vader. To that end, their leader, Lady Qi’ra, puts in place a series of plans to give her everything she needs to fight the Sith.  I have already read this intriguing comic and I liked how it continued some of the excellent storylines started in War of the Bounty Hunters. I look forward to seeing how this entire saga comes together in the future, but for now, Crimson Reign is a must-read for all fans of the current Star Wars comics.

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Star Wars: Volume Four: Crimson Reign by Charles Soule

Star Wars - Volume Four - Crimson Reign Cover

I also grabbed the fourth volume of the current Star Wars comic series, also by Charles Soule.  The tie-in to the Crimson Reign comic I mentioned above, this new Star Wars volume continues several of the storylines from the previous series, while also exploring the fallout of War of the Bounty Hunters.  This latest volume is pretty damn epic, and I love the mixture of storylines, including Luke’s continued attempt to reconnect with the Force after finding out that Darth Vader is his father, while Leia has a final confrontation with a deadly new enemy who bears a massive grudge against her. One of the strongest Star Wars comic series out there at the moment, this is a great new volume I deeply enjoyed.

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - The Last Ronin Cover

The final book I recently got was the highly anticipated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comic, The Last Ronin. Written by an all-star team, including the legendary Kevin Eastman, The Last Ronin envisions a future where the Turtles have been defeated and brutally killed off.  Only one of them remains alive and he has returned to a dystopian New York to get revenge on the man responsible for his family’s death.  A taught and powerful comic about revenge and regret, The Last Ronin was an epic read that lived up to all the hype surrounding it.  An absolute must read for all fans of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, I am really glad that I finally have a copy of this cool comic.

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Well, that’s the end of this latest Book Haul post.  As you can see I have quite a bit of reading to do at the moment thanks to all these awesome books that have come in.  Let me know which of the above you are most interested in and make sure to check back in a few weeks to see my reviews of them.

Book Haul – 1 September 2022

On By The Unseen LibraryIn Book Haul1 Comment

I have been having an absolutely fantastic couple of weeks for books, as I have been lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from some of my local publishers.  These novels include some truly awesome new releases, some of which rank amongst my top books of 2022.  I am extremely keen to check out all of the books below and they should make for some amazing reads.

Blowback by James Patterson and Brendan DuBois

Blowback Cover

The first book I was lucky enough to receive was Blowback by the wonderful team of James Patterson and Brendan DuBois.  A clever and interesting new thriller about a power-hungry US president who uses his position to launch an insane course of action against the rest of the world. This was an excellent and action-packed book that takes the reader on a very wild ride. I have already finished it off and I will hopefully get a review together for it soon.

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All of Our Demise by Amanda Foody and Christine Lynn Herman

All of Our Demise Cover 2

I was also lucky enough to receive a copy of All of Our Demise, which I have just started reading.  The sequel to last year’s fantastic All of Us Villains, the team of Amanda Foody and Christine Lynn Herman have done an excellent job of continuing the narrative here, expanding on the death tournament concept and taking the compelling, damaged protagonists on an even darker journey.  I can’t wait to see how this epic book comes to an end, and I am very confident this will turn out to be one of the best young adult novels of 2022.

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Nona the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

Nona the Ninth Cover

I was extremely happy to receive a copy of Nona the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir out of the blue.  The third book in The Locked Tomb series, Nona the Ninth continues the excellent storylines about spacefaring necromancers started in the previous two novels.  I have loved the outstanding and elaborate first two entries in the series, Gideon the Ninth (one of my favourite debuts of 2019) and Harrow the Ninth (one my favourite books and audiobooks of 2020), and I cannot wait to see how this complex series continues.  I have very, very high expectations for Nona the Ninth and I know I am going to have an exceptional time reading it.

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The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman

The Bullet That Missed Cover

There are few books in 2022 I am as excited for as The Bullet that Missed by comedian Richard Osman.  The sequel to The Thursday Murder Club (one of my favourite debuts of 2020) and The Man Who Died Twice (one of my favourite books and audiobooks of 2021), The Bullet that Missed promises to be another exceptional and captivating mystery novel with some amazing characters and a fantastic sense of humour to it.  I have no doubt that this will be another five-star book and I will hopefully read it soon.

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Star Wars: The Princess and the Scoundrel by Beth Revis

Star Wars - The Princess and the Scoundrel Cover

There have been some great Star Wars tie-in novels coming out this year but one of the ones I have been most interested in checking out is The Princess and the Scoundrel by Beth Revis.  Set immediately after the events of Return of the Jedi, The Princess and the Scoundrel will show the wedding and honeymoon of Han Solo and Princess Leia, all set to the backdrop of the formation of the New Republic.  I can’t wait to see what happens in this awesome sounding book and I reckon it will be one of the top Star Wars novels of 2022.

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Act of Oblivion by Robert Harris

Act of Oblivion Cover

I was very happy to also receive a copy of the new Robert Harris book, Act of Oblivion, which I reckon is going to be really interesting.  Harris has been tearing it up with some fascinating historical fiction novels lately, including the 2020 release V2, and I really like the sound of Act of Oblivion.  Based on real historical events, Act of Oblivion will follow two of the men responsible for the death of Charles I as they attempt to hide from the English in the American colonies.  I love this impressive concept and I am very excited to see Harris’ take on these historical fugitives.

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Lion by Conn Iggulden

Lion Cover

I was in the mood for some awesome historical fiction, so I went out and grabbed a copy of Lion by Conn Iggulden.  The follow-up to Iggulden’s last two novels, The Gates of Athens and Protector, Lion will continue to tell the story of ancient Athens, this time showcasing the rise of Pericles. I have had an exceptional time reading the previous books in this series and I cannot wait to see how Iggulden continues it.

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No Country for Girls by Emma Styles

No Country for Girls Cover

I was extremely intrigued by one of the cool books I received in the last week with the Australian thriller No Country For Girls by Emma Styles.  Set in the Australian outback, this awesome sounding book will follow two strangers who get thrust into a deadly situation and must flee into the wild bush to survive. I really love the sound of this book’s amazing story and I am very curious to find out how this fantastic novel goes.

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The Killing Code by Ellie Marney

The Killing Code Cover

Another compelling novel I received was the young adult, historical murder mystery, The Killing Code by Australian author Ellie Marney.  Set during World War II, this book follows several American codebreakers as they attempt to find out who is murdering their colleagues.  The Killing Code has a fantastic and very appealing narrative, and I am very keen to check out Marney’s writing style.

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Volume One by Kevin Eastman, Tom Waltz, Dan Duncan and more

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Volume One Cover

The final book I recently grabbed was the awesome first volume of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IDW comics.  I have been a fan of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise for a long time, primarily the television series, and I have been meaning to check out some of the comics for ages, especially considering how much I enjoy the related Usagi Yojimbo comics. As such I splashed out and grabbed volume one of the IDW run on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, which is the current version of the comics.  Including Issues #1-12 of the series, as well as a couple of character-focused issues, this proved to be an excellent introduction to this current series.  I had a brilliant time getting through this comic, and it was interesting to see this new take on the characters and the universe.  Featuring a great writing team in Kevin Eastman (one of the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles creators) and Tom Waltz, as well as art from Dan Duncan, this was an excellent and impressive comic, and I will try and do a Throwback Thursday post about it soon.

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Well, that’s the end of this latest Book Haul post.  As you can see I have quite a bit of reading to do at the moment thanks to all these awesome books that have come in.  Let me know which of the above you are most interested in and make sure to check back in a few weeks to see my reviews of them.