It's officially Spring (even if the weather doesn't believe it), so guess what that means...That's right! Book recommendations from us to you, personally. Here are some fun books in each of Wilder Things Magazine's genres.
Fantasy (Cozy)
Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree is a cozy fantasy perfect for when winter's chill lingers into spring. Brew (or buy) a latte and curl in if you're a fan of orcs, retired adventurers, and ~romance~!
Romance
The Love Wager by Lynn Painter follows two people betting on who will find love first. Obviously they'll fall for each other, but before that happens, they've got to get to know each other. Featuring an adorably bright cover and the wonderful fake-dating trope, this is a perfect romance for warming up your heart after winter's freeze. (Tatum here, and I will say that any book by Lynn Painter should be in your TBR, I love her!!)
Sci-Fi
Frankenstein. I know it's old but, that doesn't mean it's not life changing and that we should be falling at the feet of the one and only Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley. Going through the story with Victor Frankenstein and his monster will leave you wondering what a villain actually looks like, and how parallel they can seem to our own lives and morals. (This was Tatum, and I am a Mary Shelley stan to the day I die, so read this book so we can talk about it)
Mythos
Circe by Madeline Miller is full of lush descriptions. At its core, this book follows Circe as she comes into her power over a long period of time. Think you know mythology? Just wait to see how Miller revitalizes Circe's tale.
I know this is Lydia's post but I (Tatum) am hijacking it to recommend Neon Gods and the rest of the Dark Olympus series if you're looking for romance novels that are also really good myth retellings. I fell in love with the world Katee Roberts has created, and I think you will too!
Horror
It Came From the Closet edited by Joe Vallese is a collection of essays all related to queer identities in horror and how those identities are either oppressed or celebrated. Very eye opening to the horror world and how that pertains to the people around us.
Historical
These Violent Delights and Our Violent Ends by Chloe Gong is the fantasy-historical duology that you've got to read (or reread!). Set in an alternative 1920s Shanghai where monsters lurk, two heirs of feuding gangs must work together. That's right. It's a Romeo & Juliet retelling!
Magical Realism
The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden is another book perfect for winter's lingering chill. On those nights where the bitter cold stays strong, wrap yourself in your fluffiest blanket and read this novel based in folklore.
Comedy (+ Thriller)
My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite is giving a performance! At once a mystery noir and a light comedy, this novel balances dark with light. Plus, the title! Need I say more? Reading the description shows just how hilarious this novel will be.
Have you read any of these? Have any books you want to share yourself? Any that should be on our shelves at our earliest convenience? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Signing off,
~Tydia!