Book Haul – 6 December 2025

On December 6, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book HaulLeave a comment

I’ve had an excellent couple of weeks for books, as I was lucky enough to receive some incredible and amazing new novels from publishers and Netgalley. These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including books that have the potential to be some of my top reads of the year. I cannot wait to dive into them, and I so excited to see how they all turn out.

King Sorrow by Joe Hill

I finally got my copy of the cool new Joe Hill book, King Sorrow. An extensive novel that will follow a group of friends who make an unwise, life-time bargain with an ancient dragon, King Sorrow sounds really awesome, and I’ve heard some great things about it. I’m actually hoping to start reading King Sorrow next, and I have no doubt it is going to be something special.

The Feeding by Anthony Ryan

I was very happy to receive a copy of Anthony Ryan’s new novel, The Feeding, especially after having so much fun with his other 2025 release, Born of an Iron Storm. The Feeding is an excellent post-apocalyptic novel, set in a future overrun with vampires. I’ve actually already read The Feeding, and it was an outstanding novel that I deeply enjoyed.

The Blackfire Blade by James Logan

I was very happy to get a copy of The Blackfire Blade by James Logan in the last week. The sequel to Logan’s outstanding debut, The Silverblood Promise, The Blackfire Blade features another awesome plot as the protagonist journeys to another dangerous and unique fantasy city to uncover more clues about his father’s death. I really enjoyed Logan’s first novel, and I cannot wait to see how this sequel unfolds.

Pretenders to the Throne of God by Adrian Tchaikovsky

My reading list for 2026 is already off to a strong start, as I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of Pretenders to the Throne of God by Adrian Tchaikovsky. The fourth book in the Tyrant Philosophers series, Pretenders to the Throne of God is set in an unique and complex fantasy world and will follow on from outstanding books like City of Last Chances, House of Open Wounds and Days of Shattered Faith. Set to feature more war, magic and brilliantly damaged characters, Pretenders to the Throne of God is one of my most anticipated books coming out in 2026 and I cannot wait to dive into it.

Tyrant by Conn Iggulden

I recently grabbed a copy of Tyrant by Conn Iggulden, which I have been keen to read all year. The entertaining sounding sequel to Iggulden’s 2024 novel, Nero, Tyrant will continue to follow the rise of the infamous Roman emperor, with this book focusing on his teenage years. I had a lot of fun with the previous entry in this series, and I cannot wait to see more of Iggulden’s unique take on this iconic historical figure.

Forged in Rome by Conn Iggulden

I also managed to grab a copy of Iggulden’s other 2025 release, Forged in Rome, which I honestly didn’t realise was coming out. Set to follow a former slave turned treasured scribe, Forged in Rome should be a unique Roman story and I cannot wait to dive into it.

Everyone Wants to Rule the World by Ace Atkins

A fun 1980’s thriller with some entertaining twists to it. I look forward to checking this book out, especially as I haven’t read anything from Ace Atkins before.

On the Edge by Kate Horan

An exciting and complex Australian murder mystery that should be a highlight of early 2026.

No Man’s Land by Richard K. Morgan

One of the more distinctive novels I recently received a copy of is the cool historical fantasy novel No Man’s Land by Richard Morgan. A gritty standalone novel that envisions England being overrun by a race of fae during World War I, No Man’s Land has a lot of potential, and I feel it is going to be one of the most impressive fantasy novels of 2026.

Star Trek: Shaxs’ Best (and Worst) Day by Ryan North and Derek Charm

The final book I recently was received was a copy of the fun Star Trek comic, Shaxs’ Best (and Worst) Day. Written by Ryan North and featuring art from Derek Charm, this cool entry serves as an entertaining spin-off to the pair’s Lower Decks comic, the first volume of which I recently reviewed. I love the sound of Shaxs’ Best (and Worst) Day, which will see the titular character attempt to save the day when the universe is rewritten by Lore. I’m sure this is going to be a ton of fun and I look forward to diving into it.

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 – 17 November 2025

On November 17, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book Haul1 Comment

I’ve had an excellent couple of weeks for books, as I was lucky enough to receive some incredible and amazing new novels from publishers and Netgalley. These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including books that have the potential to be some of my top reads of the year. I cannot wait to dive into them, and I so excited to see how they all turn out.

Tyrant of Rome by Simon Scarrow

The first recently received book I want to highlight is the awesome historical fiction novel, Tyrant of Rome by Simon Scarrow. The latest entry in the always impressive Eagles of the Empire series, Tyrant of Rome brings back Scarrow’s long-running soldier protagonists as they take on the impossible task of maintaining law and order in ancient Rome. I have been looking forward to this book for a while, and I am hoping to read it next.

Star Wars: Master of Evil by Adam Christopher

I was very happy to receive a copy of the intriguing new Star Wars novel, Master of Evil by Adam Christopher. A chilling and complex sounding Star Wars novel that will follow the newly forged Darth Vader as he completes his journey from Jedi to Sith Lord, Master of Evil is going to be pretty damn amazing, and I cannot wait to check it out.

Hotel Lucky Seven by Kotaro Isaka

One of the more entertaining new novels I received is the amazing Japanese thriller, Hotel Lucky Seven by Kotaro Isaka. A follow-up to some of his previous novels, including Bullet Train and Three Assassins, Hotel Lucky Seven sees the unlucky protagonist of Bullet Train find himself trapped in hotel with several other deadly assassins. Based on the author’s previous books, Hotel Lucky Seven is going to be a ton of fun, and I cannot wait to check it out.

The Knight’s Pledge by Scott Mariani

Scott Mariani continues his Will Bowman series with the exciting novel, The Knight’s Pledge. The sequel to Mariani’s other 2025 release, The Pilgrim’s Revenge, The Knight’s Pledge will place the author’s compelling protagonist in even more danger as part of the Third Crusade. Sure to be an exciting and intense historical read, The Knight’s Pledge sounds fantastic and I’m hoping to get to it soon.

Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino

One of the more interesting new books I recently received was Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino. A fun debut novel from a new author, Best Offer Wins will examine just how far someone will go to win their dream house in the current housing market. Sure to be a gripping, and highly relatable read, Best Offer Wins sounds amazing and I’m planning to get to it in the next few weeks.

The Shark by Emma Styles

While I’m still mainly focused on 2025, I have received some cool 2026 novels, including The Shark by Emma Styles, an intriguing Australian thriller I only recently highlighted. Set in Western Australia, The Shark will see two teenage protagonists kidnap the person they believe are behind a series of brutal killings, resulting in mind games and uncertainty. I love the sound of this book, and I cannot wait to dive into its compelling narrative.

How to Kill a Guy in Ten Dates by Shailee Thompson

Another great 2026 novel I recently received is the fantastic and funny sounding thriller, How to Kill a Guy in Ten Dates. The first book from Australian author Shailee Thompson, How to Kill a Guy in Ten Dates will feature a deadly series of murders at a speed dating event, in fun and apparently romantic, horror novel. I love the sound of this book, and I cannot wait to dive into it.

To Cage a Wild Bird by Brooke Fast

Next, we have the excellent dystopian novel, To Cage a Wild Bird by Brooke Fast. Set in a prison where the rich hunt the inmates, To Cage a Wild Bird has a ton of potential and I’m keen to check it out.

The Crossroads by C. J. Box

The final book I want to highlight in this Book Haul post is the awesome 2026 novel, The Crossroads. The next book in C. J. Box’s long-running Joe Pickett thriller series, The Crossroads sounds like another awesome and action-packed novel that will no doubt keep me very entertained.

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 – 28 October 2025

On October 28, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book HaulLeave a comment

I’ve had an excellent couple of weeks for books, as I was lucky enough to receive some incredible and amazing new novels from publishers and Netgalley. These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including books that have the potential to be some of my top reads of the year. I cannot wait to dive into them, and I so excited to see how they all turn out.

The Strength of the Few by James Islington

The first book I want to highlight in this Book Haul post is the epic fantasy novel, The Strength of the Few by James Islington. The much-anticipated sequel to Islington’s deeply impressive The Will of the Many, The Strength of the Few will see the protagonist continue his attempt to take down an evil empire from within, while at the same time alternate versions of himself traverse other universes. I have a lot of hope for The Strength of the Few, especially after The Will of the Many ended up being one of my favourite books, audiobooks and Australian novels of 2023, and I am deeply excited to see how this awesome novel turns out.

The Proving Ground by Michael Connelly

I was also extremely happy to recently receive a copy of the new Lincoln Lawyer book from Michael Connelly, The Proving Ground. Bringing together two of Connelly’s iconic protagonists, The Proving Ground will focus on a complex legal case, as Mickey Haller takes on a major AI company in court. I cannot wait to check this book out, and I have no doubt that The Proving Ground will end up being one of the more compelling novels of 2025.

The Widow by John Grisham

Another great legal thriller I recently received was the new novel from the legendary John Grisham, The Widow. Following a troubled lawyer who finds himself in deep trouble after a mysterious widow walks through his door, The Widow was an outstanding novel with a very clever plot behind it. I’ve actually already read The Widow, and it proved to be a pretty amazing book that I am hoping to review soon.

Kill Your Boss by Jack Heath

One of my favourite Australian authors, Jack Heath, returns with his new outrageous novel, Kill Your Boss. The fun follow-up from the author’s previous novels, Kill Your Brother and Kill Your Husbands, Kill Your Boss will see Heath take on the classic locked-room murder mystery scenario, as his protagonist attempts to find out who killed the hated boss of a local library. Kill Your Boss sounds very entertaining and I cannot wait to see how this outstanding novel unfolds.

Dark Desert Road by Tim Ayliffe

Another awesome Australian crime fiction read I recently received was Dark Desert Road from the always impressive Tim Ayliffe. An intriguing novel that will dive into the darker fringes of Australian rural society, Dark Desert Road is an excellent upcoming book set for release in early 2026. I was very happy to get a copy of Dark Desert Road from Netgalley last night, especially as I only just did a Waiting on Wednesday post about it, and I cannot wait to dive into Ayliffe’s new exciting crime fiction read.

Gone Before Goodbye by Harlan Coben and Reese Witherspoon

After already wowing me earlier this year with his fantastic novel, Nobody’s Fool, Harlan Coben is back with another excellent thriller. This time teaming up with acclaimed actress Reese Witherspoon, the two have written the intriguing novel, Gone Before Goodbye, which will follow an army combat surgeon, who finds herself in major trouble when a mysterious client disappears on her watch. I am really curious to see how this novel turns out, and I am hoping to read Gone Before Goodbye very soon.

Dawn of the Firebird by Sarah Mughal Rana

The final book I recently received that I want to highlight on this post is the upcoming fantasy epic, Dawn of the Firebird. The debut novel from Sarah Mughal Rana, Dawn of the Firebird will follow a complex protagonist as she attempts to find both vengeance and her place in a deadly world of war, magic and treachery. Dawn of the Firebird sounds quite spectacular, and I am really excited to dive into this cool book from an exciting, first-time author.

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 – Canberra Bookfair – September 2025

On October 4, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book HaulLeave a comment

During the last weekend I was able to attend the Canberra Lifeline Bookfair, an event that occurs several times a year and gives great opportunities to pick up secondhand books donated for charity. I ended up managing to pick up several pretty awesome books at this bookfair which I was very happy with. This includes multiple books I had been keeping an eye out for, as well as a few interesting novels that proved to be very welcome surprises. Due to these successes, I decided to do a bonus Book Haul post to show off just how varied the books you can potentially find at this bookfair can be.

The Blacktongue Thief by Christopher Buehlman

One of the most talked about fantasy novels in recent years has to be The Blacktongue Thief by Christopher Buehlman. I heard a lot of awesome things about The Blacktongue Thief when it first came out, and I even did a Waiting on Wednesday post about it. Despite this, I kept failing to find a copy of The Blacktongue Thief, even though I was still extremely interested in reading it. As such, I was pretty damn happy to find a good secondhand version of this book on the weekend and I’m hoping to read it soon.

Long Past Dues by James J. Butcher

Another book I was particularly happy to find over the weekend was Long Past Dues by James J. Butcher. The second book in Butcher’s Unorthodox Chronicles, Long Past Dues is the awesome sounding sequel to the author’s debut novel, Dead Man’s Hand. I had a great time reading Dead Man’s Hand when it first came out, and I’m very excited to finally get my hands on the sequel.

Traitor’s Blade by Sebastien De Castell

I just had to pick up a copy of Traitor’s Blade by Sebastien De Castell when I saw it was available, especially after enjoying some of the author’s more recent novels. The first book in the author’s Greatcoats series, Traitor’s Blade sounds pretty amazing, and I’m curious to see how De Castell set up his entertaining universe.

Apocalypse Cow by Michael Logan

So, I’m not going to lie, I picked this one up purely because of the puns on the front page, which still makes me chuckle. A comedic novel about zombie cows is frankly something I’d never be able to turn down, and it sounds like Apocalypse Cow is a particularly funny read, which I am very keen to check out.

Star Wars: The Mandalorian Armor by K. W. Jeter

While I haven’t explored the now defunct Legends canon of Star Wars fiction as much as I would have liked, I was very interested in this copy of The Mandalorian Armor by K. W. Jeter I found. The first book in a series that pits the infamous bounty hunters of Star Wars universe against each other, The Mandalorian Armor sounds pretty damn awesome, and I look forward to diving into it when I get a chance.

Warhammer 40,000: Grey Knights by Ben Counter

More fun Warhammer 40,000 fun from the always impressive Ben Counter, how could I possibly turn that down.

Footprints of Thunder by James F. David

The final book I picked up is the intriguing classic science fiction novel, Footprints of Thunder by James F. David. A compelling and thrilling novel that sees the modern world merged with the dinosaur inhabited past, Footprints of Thunder is an excellent book that I was very happy to find a good copy of. I think I actually read this book when I was younger, so it will be interesting to revisit it after all these years.

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 – 4 August 2025

On August 4, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book HaulLeave a comment

I’ve had an excellent couple of weeks for books, as I was lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from local publishers and Netgalley. These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including books that have the potential to be some of my top reads of the year. I cannot wait to dive into them, and I so excited to see how they all turn out.

Two Kinds of Stranger by Steve Cavanagh

The first awesome new book I recently received is the new Steve Cavanagh novel, Two Kinds of Stranger. An excellent legal thriller from Cavanagh that will see his former conman protagonist attempt to save an innocent client from a terrible set of circumstances, Two Kinds of Stranger sounds very cool and I am hoping to read it soon.

The Final Vow by M. W. Craven

Next, we have the exceptional novel from M. W. Craven, The Final Vow. Part of his Washington Poe series, The Final Vow will see Craven’s intense protagonist attempt to stop a deadly sniper terrorizing the UK. I love the sound of this book, and I am very excited to read it, especially after how impressive the previous entry in the series, The Mercy Chair, turned out last year. I honestly believe that The Final Vow is going to end up being one of the top thrillers of 2025 and I cannot wait to dive into it.

Templar Traitor by Angus Donald

I was very happy to have received a copy of the excellent historical fiction novel, Templar Traitor, this week, especially as I really enjoyed author Angus Donald’s first book many years ago. This latest novel features a very interesting plot about an English knight who joins the Mongol army as it invaded Europe. I am actually reading Templar Traitor now and it is proving to be a very impressive read with a great story behind it.

The Detective by Matthew Reilly

The always outstanding Matthew Reilly dives into the crime fiction genre this year with The Detective. The Detective will see a new investigator protagonist dive into a long-running case of missing girls and murdered detectives in the American South. The Detective sounds like a particularly awesome read and I am really intrigued to see how this cool novel unfolds.

High Rise by Gabriel Bergmoser

I am very excited for this next book, High Rise by Australian author Gabriel Bergmoser, which honestly sounds so damn awesome. Featuring a very cool plot about a rogue cop who finds himself being hunted by an entire city’s underworld in his daughter’s apartment building, High Rise has the potential to be one of the most thrilling Australian novels of 2025, and I cannot wait to dive into it.

Seed by Bri Lee

A compelling thriller about two people stuck out in an isolated seed vault, Seed sounds really good and could be quite an interesting read.

Blood Like Mine by Stuart Neville

A gritty and layered novel from a very highly regarded thriller author.

Dead Line by Marc Cameron

An outstanding new novel from Marc Cameron set in Alaska that has a very intriguing plot synopsis behind it.

Five Found Dead by Sulari Gentill

The final book I recently received is the fantastic murder mystery novel Five Found Dead by Australian author Sulari Gentill. An interesting take on the classic train-based whodunnit, Five Found Dead sounds like quite a compelling read, and I am curious to see what sort of mystery Gentill has planned. I am hoping to start reading Five Found Dead in the next week or so, and it should prove to be a pretty amazing mystery.

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 – 21 July 2025

On July 21, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book HaulLeave a comment

I’ve had an excellent couple of weeks for books, as I was lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from local publishers and Netgalley. These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including books that have the potential to be some of my top reads of the year. I cannot wait to dive into them, and I so excited to see how they all turn out.

The Last Soul Among Wolves by Melissa Caruso

The first new book I want to highlight is the excellent fantasy novel, The Last Soul Among Wolves by Melissa Caruso. The sequel the Caruso’s 2024 novel, The Last Hour Between Worlds, The Last Soul Among Wolves looks set to be another gripping fantasy mystery as the protagonist tries to survive a will reading that has been made livelier by a deadly curse. Sure to be one of the more compelling and complex fantasy reads of 2025, I cannot wait to check this book out.

Katabasis by R. F. Kuang

I was also extremely happy to receive a copy of one of the most anticipated fantasy releases of 2025 with Katabasis by R. F. Kuang. A cool dark academia fantasy novel that will see two rival students got to Hell to retrieve their professor’s soul, Katabasis has a ton of potential, and I am very excited to read my first book from Kuang, whose books have been high on my to-read list for a while.

The Bone Raiders by Jackson Ford

One of the more insane and entertaining books I have recently received is the fantastic and fun novel, The Bone Raiders. Written by rising author Jackson Ford, The Bone Raiders will see a group of bone-clad raiders attempt to survive an oncoming invasion by taming giant, fire-breathing lizards that stalk the steppes with them. I really love the sound of this book’s awesome plot, and I have no doubt that The Bone Raiders will be a particularly epic read.

End Game by Jeffrey Archer

Jeffrey Archer brings his William Warwick series to an end later this year with End Game. The eighth book in the series, End Game will see the final battle the protagonist and his mortal enemy, all while trying to stop an assassin using the 2012 London Olympic games as cover. I am really looking forward to seeing how this series comes to an end, and End Game should be a particularly awesome read.

Of Flame and Fury by Mikayla Bridge

An explosive and cool YA fantasy debut from Australian author Mikayla Bridge, Of Flame and Fury follows a team of phoenix racers as they attempt to win big while getting dragged into an elaborate conspiracy. A fun book that I am currently reading at the moment, Of Flame and Fury is proving to be a fantastic novel, and I am excited to see how it comes together.

The Scene of the Crime by Lynda La Plante

A cool, CSI based series from one of England’s leading crime fiction authors, Lynda La Plante.

Death at Booroomba by A. L. Booth

A rural, post-World War I Australian crime fiction novel, Death at Booroomba is a compelling sounding novel that will see a scarred veteran attempt to settle into a remote property he inherited, only to be accused of murdering the land’s previous owner by the suspicious locals. I have a feeling Death at Booroomba is going to be an excellent piece of Australian fiction and I’m hoping to read it soon.

How Bad Things Can Get by Darcy Coates

Another particularly awesome and unique sounding novel I have recently received is the thriller How Bad Things Can Get by Darcy Coates. Set around a controversial party on an isolated island that soon becomes a bloody mess, How Bad Things Can Get sounds like a ball of gruesome fun, and I am really keen to check this incredible book out.

Legacy by Chris Hammer

A particularly exciting new book from one of Australia’s leading thriller authors.

Agricola: Commander by Simon Turney

The final book I was lucky enough to recently receive is the third book in the Agricola series by Simon Turney, Commander. Following the early life of the legendary Roman general as he returns to Britannia to make a name for himself, Commander should be an outstanding read and I’m keen to check it out.

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 – 18 May 2025

On May 18, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book HaulLeave a comment

I’ve been away on holiday for a few weeks, which has resulted in a lack of major posts on this blog (at least that’s my excuse). One upside about being away is that you tend to come back to a big pile of books, which is always fun to explore. This holiday was no exception as I managed to return to a great collection of awesome books that have built up the last couple of weeks. This includes some major 2025 releases, including a few books likely to be amongst my top books of the year. I am very happy with this collection, and I just had to gloat about it here.

The Devils by Joe Abercrombie

Probably the book I was most excited to receive was the new Joe Abercrombie novel The Devils. The start of a cool new series set in an alternate and dark medieval Europe filled with fantasy creatures, The Devils follow a mismatched group of monsters under the command of the Pope as they attempt to pull off an impossible mission. This was one of my most anticipated fantasy releases of 2025 and I have already started reading it. I’m a good third of the way through The Devils at the moment and it is already proving to be a particularly exceptional read that will likely be one of the best books of the entire year. Highly recommended!

Everybody Wants to Rule the World Except Me by Django Wexler

Another particularly awesome fantasy novel I was very happy to get my hands on was Everybody Wants to Rule the World Except Me by Django Wexler. The sequel to the hilarious 2024 fantasy novel, How to Become the Dark Lord and Die Trying, Everybody Wants to Rule the World Except Me follows a reluctant fantasy protagonist whose plan to survive by becoming a feared dark lord starts to backfire on her. This will probably end up being one of the funniest books of the year and I am hoping to read it very soon.

Whisper in the Wind by Luke Arnold

Australian author Luke Arnold returns with Whisper in the Wind, the fourth entry in his urban fantasy Fetch Phillips series that follows a damaged investigator desperately trying to bring back magic to a dying fantasy city. I loved the first three books in this series, The Last Smile in Sunder City, Dead Man in a Ditch, and One Foot in the Fade, and I cannot wait to see how this series continues. Another amazing sounding book from an excellent author that I will probably be reading this week.

Stone and Sky by Ben Aaronovitch

The fantasy hits I recently received keep on coming with the epic new Rivers of London novel, Stone and Sky by Ben Aaronovitch. The latest book in one of the best ongoing urban fantasy series, Stone and Sky will follow the series’ police protagonist as he attempts to have a family holiday in Scotland, only to encounter a new dark magical mystery. I really love the sound of this book, and I cannot wait to dive into Stone and Sky’s complex and entertaining story.

The Book That Held Her Heart by Mark Lawrence

Another great book I was lucky enough to recently receive was the third and final book in Mark Lawrence’s Library trilogy, The Book That Held Her Heart. Following on from The Book That Wouldn’t Burn and The Book That Broke the World, The Book That Held Her Heart will show the final battle for the impossible and infinite library, as the separated protagonists must find a way back to each other to save the lives of those closest to them. I am very excited to finish this trilogy off, and The Book That Held Her Heart has a great deal of potential.

Sins of the Fathers by John Byrnes

Another cool Australian historical epic from John Byrnes, who previous impressed me with Headland and The Youngest Son. This new book will follow three children through the early 20th century as they feud throughout key Australian historical events and locations. This will likely be a fun and compelling read that I look forward to checking out.

The Maid’s Secret by Nita Prose

An intriguing new novel from Nita Prose that will continue to showcase the investigations of her unlikely and unusual protagonist.

Paved with Good Intentions by Peter McLean

The final book I have received was the cool fantasy crime novel, Paved With Good Intentions by Peter McLean. A standalone novel set in McLean’s War for the Rose Throne universe, Paved With Good Intentions will follow a woman forced into the spying game as she tries to survive and get back to her children. A very intriguing and cool book from a talented author that I look forward to reading.

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 – 7 April 2025

On April 7, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book HaulLeave a comment

I’ve had an excellent couple of weeks for books, as I was lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from local publishers and Netgalley. These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including books that have the potential to be some of my top reads of the year. I cannot wait to dive into them, and I so excited to see how they all turn out.

The Malevolent Eight by Sebastien de Castell

First up we have one of the potentially most funny and over-the-top fantasy novels of 2025 with The Malevolent Eight. The sequel to the author’s previous novel, The Malevolent Seven, this new book will see a group of unlikely magical heroes as they attempt to save their world from the invading armies of heaven and hell. I had a lot of fun with The Malevolent Seven and I cannot wait to see how de Castell continues this entertaining story.

No Body No Crime by Tess Sharpe

After having a ton of fun with Tess Sharpe’s previous novels, The Girls I’ve Been and The Girl in Question, I am excited for the author’s upcoming book, No Body No Crime. Another awesome thriller that will see two women try to survive a powerful crime family coming for them, No Body No Crime sounds really cool and I look forward to reading it.

2 Sisters Murder Investigations by James Patterson and Candice Fox

The superstar team of James Patterson and Candice Fox return for the new fast-paced thriller, 2 Sisters Murder Investigations. The sequel to 2 Sisters Detective Agency, 2 Sisters Murder Investigations will see the dysfunctional sister protagonists dragged into a new murder investigation with potential lethal consequences. I had a lot of fun with the first novel in this series and I am excited to see how it continues.

Retreat by Krysten Ritter with Lindsay Jamieson

An intense and compelling thriller from acclaimed actor Kristen Ritter.

Gifted & Talented by Olivie Blake

An intriguing novel that is essentially Succession with magic, Gifted & Talented sounds like a very fantastic read, and I have heard some good things about author Olivie Blake’s previous books.

When She Was Gone by Sara Foster

An intense and complex crime fiction read from a great Australian author.

Vanguard Strike by Jarom Strong

The final book I want to highlight in this blog post is the awesome science fiction novel, Vanguard Strike by Jarom Strong. Featuring a very cool sounding plot about a team of thieves trying to strip a valuable military ship in space, only to contend with its monstrous contents, Vanguard Strike’s plot really appealed to me, and I cannot wait to see how crazy this book gets.

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 – 11 March 2025

On March 11, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book HaulLeave a comment

I’ve had an excellent couple of weeks for books, as I was lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from local publishers and Netgalley. These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including books that have the potential to be some of my top reads of the year. I cannot wait to dive into them, and I so excited to see how they all turn out.

A Death In Berlin by Simon Scarrow

Let’s start this Book Haul post on a high with the new Simon Scarrow book, A Death in Berlin. The latest entry in Scarrow’s Berlin Wartime Thriller series (Blackout and Dead of Night), A Death in Berlin will once again follow the series’ detective protagonist as he tries to investigate crimes in Berlin against the wishes of the Nazi leadership.

Pacific Heights by S. R. White

Next, we have the very cool Australian murder mystery, Pacific Heights by S. R. White. An intriguing new book from White, Pacific Heights will see new police protagonists attempt to investigate a murder using the conflicting testimony of five differing witnesses. I look forward to unravelling this complex tale and it should be an exceptional read.

Usagi Yojimbo: Volume 40: The Crow by Stan Sakai

I was very happy to get the latest volume of my favourite comic book series with Usagi Yojimbo: The Crow by Stan Sakai. An outstanding addition to an epic series, I have already reviewed The Crow here, and it comes highly recommended.

Vanish by Shelley Burr

One of Australia’s fastest rising murder mystery, Shelley Burr, returns with her third book, Vanish. Following on from her previous novels, Wake and Ripper, Vanish will see the series’ troubled protagonist journey to another remote Australian town to investigate a historical murder, only to encounter a dangerous cult. I have really enjoyed Burr’s first two books, and I cannot wait to see how Vanish turns out.

When the Moon Hits Your Eye by John Scalzi

I was extremely happy to receive a copy of the new John Scalzi book, When the Moon Hits Your Eye. A fun sounding science fiction comedy that will examine what happens to the world when the moon suddenly turning to cheese, When the Moon Hits Your Eye sounds so damn awesome, and I cannot wait to read it.

Overgrowth by Mira Grant

One of the more intriguing novels I recently received was the intriguing science fiction book, Overgrowth by Mira Grant. A unique take on the alien invasion story, Overgrowth sounds extremely cool and I look forward to getting through it.

The Other People by C. B. Everett

The final book I have recently received is The Other People by C. B. Everett. An excellent sounding murder mystery, The Other People will follow ten strangers who wake up in a mysterious house and are forced to solve a missing person’s case while a killer stalks them. This sounds like an amazing concept, and I am intrigued to see how it turned out.

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 – 10 February 2025

On February 10, 2025 By The Unseen LibraryIn Book HaulLeave a comment

I’ve had a excellent couple of weeks for books, as I was lucky enough to receive several incredible and amazing new novels from local publishers and Netgalley. These novels include some truly awesome new releases, including books that have the potential to be some of my top reads of the year. I cannot wait to dive into them, and I so excited to see how they all turn out.

Midnight Black by Mark Greaney

The first recently received book I want to highlight in this post is the new Mark Greaney novel, Midnight Black. The 14th entry in the author’s Gray Man series, Midnight Black follows on from the cliffhanger at the end of the previous novel, The Chaos Agent, and sees the dangerous spy protagonist attempt to rescue his love interest from a Russian prison camp. One of my most anticipated books of 2025, Midnight Black sounds really cool, and I cannot wait to see what brutal action and over-the-top chaos emerge in this amazing read.

The Reunion by Bronwyn Rivers

The next book I want to highlight in this book haul post is the intriguing Australian thriller debut, The Reunion by Bronwyn Rivers. Set in the iconic landscape of the Blue Mountains, The Reunion will see five former friends return to the site of a fateful incident 10 years before where one of their friends died during a hike. Set to feature old secrets and lies re-emerge, The Reunion has a ton of potential, and I think it will end up being one of my top debuts of 2025.

The Medici Return by Steve Berry

I was very happy to receive a copy of The Medici Return by Steve Berry. The latest entry in the long-running Cotton Malone series (of which I have become very fond of), The Medici Return will see the series’ titular protagonist investigate a deadly conspiracy involving an old debt owed to the historical Medici family by the Catholic church, which could impact the entire future of Italy. I cannot wait to see what elaborate narrative Berry has pulled together for The Medici Return and I know I am going to have an amazing time with this book.

The Bluff by Joanna Jenkins

One of the more intriguing novels I recently received was the cool Australian legal thriller, The Bluff by Joanna Jenkins. The sequel to Jenkin’s fun and clever first novel, How To Kill A Client (one of my favourite debuts of 2023), The Bluff looks set to be another compelling read as the big-city lawyer protagonist investigates a deadly cover-up in small-town Australia.

Nobody’s Fool by Harlan Coben

Easily one of the more intriguing thrillers of 2025, I was very happy to get a copy of the new Harlan Coben book, Nobody’s Fool. A follow-up to Coben’s classic novel, Fool Me Once, Nobody’s Fool will see returning character Sami Kierce forced to face his past after an old girlfriend he thought long dead returns, initiating an impossible mystery. I really like the sound of this amazing book, and I cannot wait to read another incredible novel from Coben.

You Are Fatally Invited by Ande Pliego

A very fun and meta thriller that will see several bestselling murder mystery and thriller authors caught up in a classic whodunnit situation when they are summoned to the private of a famous and mysterious author. I love books that attempt to place their own twist on the iconic old-school mystery novels, and You Are Fatally Invited by Ande Pliego sounds like it is going to be something very special.

Count My Lies by Sophie Stava

An intriguing upcoming debut thriller that will see a chronic liar caught up in a dark situation thanks to her bold stories. This could be a very cool read and I look forward to checking it out.

Grave Empire by Richard swan

I was lucky enough to receive a copy of the new fantasy novel from Richard Swan, Grave Empire. One of the most anticipated fantasy novels of 2025, Grave Empire takes readers to a new age of the Empire of the Wolf and presents a whole different raft of threats and challenges. This sounds like a really cool book and one I hope I get the chance to check out this year, although as I still haven’t finished off the preceding The Empire of the Wolf trilogy, I worry I won’t be able to enjoy Grave Empire as much.

Barren Cape by Michelle Prak

I was very happy to get an early copy of the fantastic thriller novel, Barren Cape, from Australian author Michelle Prak. This awesome novel will see a desperate person squatting in an abandoned and isolated resort, which will backfire on her in some dark ways. I am extremely curious to see how Barren Cape turns out, and I think I am going to have a lot of fun with this book.

Nightshade by Michael Connelly

Last, but definitely not least, is the new upcoming Michael Connelly book Nightshade. I was very, very lucky to receive an early copy of Nightshade and I am very excited to check it out, especially as all my recent experiences with Connelly’s books have been extremely positive. Introducing a new Connelly protagonist who operates on Catalina Island, Nightshade looks set to be a particularly impressive book and I am very excited to check it out.

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.