Hobbies

The Left Hand of Darkness, by Ursula K. Le Guin

• 9/10

• Le Guin is a legend for good reason. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors, and I anticipate more of her books to appear on this list soon. This book blew me away with its insight and commentary on gender dynamics, especially for a story published in 1969.

The Bloodsworn Saga, 1-3, by John Gwynne

• 8/10

• This is an interesting blend of a well-researched,  historically accurate Viking setting with fantastical elements (also inspired by Norse and other Northern European lore). The action is extremely detailed and well-written; the author participates in historically accurate Viking re-enactments, and his experience in "real" battle shines through in his stories. I enjoyed the trilogy, but it didn't have me desperate to read like some other series have.

The Earthsea Cycle, 1-3, by Ursula K. Le Guin

• 9/10

• Absolutely beautifully written. Throughout my reading of the first three books, there were several times I would interrupt my partner just to make her read a particular sentence. They are a bit of a slower burn than most modern fantasy, though.

The Cradle series, 1-12, by Will Wight

• 9.5/10

• Pure fun, popcorn fiction, action-packed with great character progression. Reminded me of a shonen anime.

The Will of the Many, by James Islington

• 8.5/10

• I really enjoyed this, especially the end. There is a lot of overlap with Red Rising, though. Still excited for the next one!

Piranesi, by Susanna Clarke

• 10/10

• Beautiful writing. Unique and enchanting. Reading this brought me to another place in a way that few other books have managed.

This is How You Lose The Time War, by Max Gladstone and Amal El-Mohtar

• 8/10

• Very cool, short and sweet. Unique in that it is an epistolary.

I Who Have Never Known Men, by Jacqueline Harpman

• 8/10

• Enjoyable, but not "fun" (which is okay!). Very thought-provoking. This is a book you will finish and continue to ponder for some time.

The Farseer Trilogy, 1-3, by Robin Hobb

• 9/10

• I had heard of Hobb for years and wasn't disappointed. These books were amazing and I will certainly be returning to this world in the future.

Hyperion and The Fall of Hyperion, by Dan Simmons

• Both 10/10

• Hyperion might be my favorite book ever. If you like scifi/fantasy, you must read Hyperion.

The Red Rising Trilogy, by Pierce Brown

• 8.5/10

• Very fun sci-fi that sticks the big moments.

Blood Over Bright Haven, by ML Wang

• 9/10

• ML Wang is great. I highly recommend this book as well as her previous novel, The Sword of Kaigen.