New Books in Bloom
The post describes the author's enjoyable Halloween experience and a book titled "Crumbs" by Danie Stirling. The story follows Ray, a WOC seer aspiring to join her magical city's council while navigating friendships and romantic feelings with Laurie, a struggling musician. The narrative emphasizes healthy relationships and features a diverse cast. The author rates the book five stars.
The Remarried Empress follows Empress Navier and Emperor Sovieshu, whose marriage is threatened by his attraction to Rashta, a new courtier. Amid political intrigue, Navier communicates with a secret admirer, leading her to consider a divorce if she can remarry. The first volume promises compelling drama and strong characters.
Navigating with You is a heartfelt sapphic romance between Neesha, a disabled activist, and Gabby, a carefree surfer. They bond over a shared love of manga while exploring personal challenges. Their evolving friendship highlights themes of identity, disability, and self-worth, culminating in a poignant moment at a comic convention. A charming and relatable read.
In November, the author plans to focus on books by Indigenous authors, including "The Truth According to Ember," a contemporary romance about a Chickasaw woman, and "Never Whistle At Night," a dark fiction anthology. Other picks include poetry by Tayi Tibble, a fantasy novel by Moniquill Blackgoose, and the middle-grade tale "Eagle Drums."
Several upcoming comic releases in November include "The Fade," a coming-of-age story exploring a viral phenomenon; "Kahhori Shaper of Worlds," featuring an Indigenous heroine in the Marvel Universe; "Teen Titans Starfire," which reimagines Kori and Kira's origins; "Love Advice from the Grand Duke of Hell," focused on unconventional dating guidance; and "Girl in the Midnight Gown," where Lela searches for her missing sister in a magical realm.
I'm eating up this manga like candy. Cat + Gamer is a great world to dip your toes into at the end of a long day. The art is crispy and cute and the story is homey. In this volume Musubi starts to grow into a bigger kitten and Riko begins to learn what it's… Continue reading Riko and Musubi: A Gamer’s Feline Journey
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated widely in India and among the Indian diaspora. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil with traditions like decorating homes, fireworks, feasting, and gambling. The post highlights three romance novels centered around Diwali themes, showcasing diverse characters and experiences.
The post reflects on a calm Halloween and introduces the Day of the Dead, a Latinx celebration connecting life and death with traditions like ofrendas, sugar skulls, and marigolds. It highlights media related to the holiday, including books that explore its cultural significance and themes of love, loss, and remembrance.
This month has been slower for reading compared to September's 19-book total. The writer enjoyed "The Soul Jar" and "White Fragility," and is exploring the Dungeon Club series and "Night of the Living Queers." They also watch Halloween cooking shows and the new Goosebumps series, aiming for a more productive November.
Molly Knox Ostertag's "The Deep Dark" features Magdalena Herrera, a high school senior caring for her grandmother while hiding a monstrous secret. As she reconnects with childhood friend Nessa, romantic feelings complicate her isolation. The story explores themes of identity, trauma, and love, with strong LGBTQIA+ representation. A thrilling, five-star read. Check out Ostertag on IG at molly_ostertag
Rose's Book Garden 