Caught in the Middle: Book Series I’m Dying to Finish

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As I sit in my cozy nook at home in New York, surrounded by a pile of books, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible book series that have captivated my heart and mind. From the sweeping romance of Diana Gabaldon’s historical fiction to the gripping twists of a mystery series, each story transports me to a new world, filled with unforgettable characters and intricate plots. Whether it’s a fantasy series that sparks my imagination or a mystery that keeps me on the edge of my seat, I find myself deeply immersed in these narratives, often caught between the pages of the first book and my next reading adventure.

As readers, we all know the thrill of discovering a new series, the anticipation of what comes next, and the sheer love for the written word that draws us into these fictional lives. Today, I want to share some book recommendations that celebrate the magic of reading and highlight the diverse genres that keep us enchanted in our free time. Join me on this journey as we explore the series that has shaped my literary life!

Reading 120 books this year, at a minimum!

Currently, it is October 2nd and I am on book 118 of 120 for the year. With being 30 books ahead of schedule and only 16.6% of the year left to add to my goal, it is the perfect time to go through the series that I am in the middle of and tell you whether I will be continuing and my thoughts so far. For this, I will strictly be talking about books I started in 2024, and that are TRUE series. No interconnected standalone cause nobody has time for that lol!

Stats:

• Continuing: 7
• Not continuing: 4
• On the Fence: 6
• Waiting on the next book: 7

Series That I won’t be Continuing

Drowned World by Eliza Chan

As someone who loves The Little Mermaid, Fathomfolk was one of my most anticipated books of 2024. It was an imaginative debut fantasy of east asian mythology (essentially ocean folk tales) that severely lacked execution. Simply put, while the characters were borderline unique and the world just as much, nothing in the polluted waters of the submerged city of Tiankawi made sense. Beyond that, it was extremely boring. You should check out my full thoughts in the review Why I decided to DNF Fathomfolk. One would hope that author Eliza Chan smoothed out some of the writing and hangups that many readers had. Unfortunately, I won’t be continuing to see whether or not this happens.

The Shadow and Bone Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo

Like many readers, I like to compare and contrast books with their visual counterparts. Plus, I have owned the box set of The Shadow and Bone trilogy for at least 3 years now. I kept pushing it back with talks of the show arriving, then the show was canceled and I thought why not? The first book of the fantasy trilogy turned out not to be for me. It wasn’t bad by no means it just fell in the meh category and with owning over 1000 books with three-fourths still needing to be read (I am officially a library) Alina Starkov, the Darkling, and the Shadow Fold has to fall to the pile of books that I will not continue.

Plus, Leigh Bardugo’s writing doesn’t quite vibe with me. But, since it was my first read by Bardugo (and I own her other books) I will give it another go and see if it was just Shadow and Bone that didn’t work. *side note* I liked the show even less it was boring and didn’t (of course) capture all of the wonderful moments within the Grisha verse.

Crystal Bloom by Sarah A. Parker

I often don’t read hyped books strictly because I don’t want to go into the book expecting something amazing and then the story falls short. To Bleed A Crystal Bloom turned out to be one of my most disappointing reads of the year for this exact reason. This fantasy series was supposed to be perfect. A Rapunzel reimagining full of fantasy romance. But at 50% in, the pretty flower FMC Orlaith still won’t leave the imaginary line on the castle grounds, is pining after the utterly unavailable Rhordyn but won’t do anything to make changes all the while she is whining about it. I couldn’t take it anymore and decided to DNF it.

Harbingers by Harper Hawthorne

I decided not to continue the Harbingers series by Harper Hawthorne after DNFing the first book at 22%. Honestly, I was intrigued by the idea of Arken Asher, and even “Shadow Daddy” Kieran Vistarii had some early potential for compelling banter, but it just fell flat. The world-building was pockmarked with inconsistencies, and while the magic system was hinted at—something about aether being elemental—it remained rudimentary at best. Instead of a slow-burn romance that pulls you in, the pacing dragged, leaving me completely indifferent to the main characters.

Kieran’s journey felt directionless, almost as if he was juggling three novels simultaneously, getting sidetracked by befriending local frogs or battling a demonic entity disguised as a local mystery. The promise of a speculative fiction author tackling neurodivergent experiences sounded exciting, but it didn’t translate well in this slow, meandering fantasy. Though the first book tried to balance love, blood, and a splash of humor, the magic fizzled out, leaving me uninterested in turning another page. So, for now, Harbringers is shelved indefinitely.

Series I am on the fence about

The Royal Spares by Eva Chase

I am a sucker for a why choose romance and with it being an enemies-to-lovers romance as well it felt like I hit BINGO! And The Royal Spares series has that in spades. But while this fantasy romance by Eva Chase was good (I actually raved about it in my review What Secrets in A Game of Veils Will Make You Move It Up Your TBR?) I was so annoyed with the FMC Aurelia at the end of the book that my blood has yet to cool. So, for now, I am still on the fence but you should read my review on A Game of Veils and decide whether or not you need to read it for yourself.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

Like many readers, I had a stack of books that sat in the “Should I read this or unhaul it?” pile, and Daughter of Smoke and Bone was firmly in that category for me. I own multiple editions—from the standard one to a Litjoy special edition with silver foiled edges, even the original covers with the feathers! The book sounds like a perfect atmospheric read, with Laini Taylor’s reputedly smooth, lyrical prose and intricate world-building. But despite all the appeal, I’ve had a mental block about starting this trilogy. However, now that I’ve pulled it from my TBR box of wonders, it feels like the universe has nudged me to read it finally.

I enjoyed Daughter of Smoke and Bone. It was a story that I didn’t want to end, and now that I think about it I should move this book into the series I will be continuing category. Laini Taylor’s writing is beautiful and brilliant with imagery that will be vividly displayed in your mind’s eye throughout the novel. The characters Karou with her blue hair and Akiva are mystical and beautiful with vibrant personalities that leap off the page.

Saga of the Unfated by Danielle L. Jensen

Norse-inspired worlds are among my favorites, and this one did not disappoint. The plot is excellent: Freya is trapped in unwanted marriage after unwanted marriage, but she is destined to be the shield maiden who unites people—and tears them apart. The world-building is immersive, making it easy to grasp the setting and the flow of the tale. The pacing keeps you engaged without dragging, allowing the lore to shine. Freya is unfiltered and flawed, making her a fierce character you can’t help but root for as she pursues her goals.

So, what didn’t I like? Danielle’s writing style and my mind just don’t quite mesh. Don’t get me wrong; it’s beautiful and everything I’ve mentioned. Although I am intrigued by the ending as the story progressed, it felt like it was devolving. A Fate Inked in Blood is almost all telling and not enough showing. As a reader, I want to visualize the story, imagining it in my mind’s eye like a movie. Unfortunately, this book didn’t quite achieve that for me.

The Veiled Kingdom by Holly Renee

The Veiled Kingdom quickly draws you to Nyra’s side, making her struggle against her oppressive father compelling. She’s tired of being a powerless princess, willing to sacrifice her position for freedom, which adds depth to her predicament. However, as the story unfolds, there’s an underlying sense of dispiritedness that grows. The world-building is sparse beyond the two kingdoms of Marmoris and the Hidden City, leaving gaps in the narrative. It wasn’t clear the characters were Fae until a character with wings appeared, and even then, the explanation was lacking, making the world feel underdeveloped.

Subsequently, with my plotting and planning for reading the first two books, there was a fatal error in reading The Hunted Heir. Book 3 (The Rivaled Crown) won’t be released until the spring of 2025. I have no motive for reading this installment other than wanting to know if Dacre makes his way back to Verena (obviously this is a yes but I want to know how this happens).

Overall, The Veiled Kingdom series is entertaining but also frustrating. It is too short and lacks critical points. I expected more (of everything). And I am hoping that book three satisfies the need that I am craving. In the meantime check out my review on The Veiled Kingdom: Exploring Love and Loyalty in Holly Renee’s Saga

Among Veiled Stars by Shelby Brookes

When I first picked up Among Veiled Stars, it didn’t capture my attention, and I put it down, only to return later. It turned out to be the right call because the story eventually grew on me. The protagonist, Eefah, is frustratingly shallow, focusing too much on her status as a princess and treating those beneath her poorly. Her constant reminders of royalty made her character difficult to like, and the magic system was poorly explained. The pacing felt slow, with unnecessary scenes that could have benefited from tighter editing and more world-building.

Despite considering DNF’ing, I found that the book’s final section was its strongest part, where the writing truly shined. With the reveal at the end, I’m interested enough to possibly continue, hoping the author’s writing improves in future installments. As for recommending it, while the book has its flaws, it also has potential. So it might be worth checking out to see if it resonates with you.

Check out my full review From Secrets to Stardust: Among Veiled Stars Review

Series that I Will Be Continuing

Rooks and Ruin by Melissa Caruso

The Obsidian Tower by Melissa Caruso is an epic fantasy filled with razor-sharp politics, mysterious magic, and rich world-building. The story follows Ryxander (Ryx), the Warden of Gloamingard Castle, who struggles with her unique, deadly magic. Tasked with guarding the mysterious black tower, Ryx inadvertently sets off a chain of events when a diplomat opens its door during peace negotiations. The world-building is immersive, and while the plot has a slow start, it eventually delivers a captivating, nuanced adventure.

The romance is minimal and feels somewhat forced, and while Ryx is a compelling protagonist, there is a lack of character development for others in the story. Despite its flaws, the book offers a strong start to the Rooks and Ruin trilogy, leaving the reader intrigued for more. And intrigued I am. this book series is bound to be one of my favorites. I can’t wait to continue.

Check out my full review The Obsidian Tower: Gripping Darkness and Truly Excellent Fantasy

The Glacian Trilogy by Stacey McEwan

I am currently reading Valley (book two in the Glacian book series) and I am obsessed. This is a bedtime story. Where Ledge’s initial pacing felt slow Chasm rocks you in its soothing embrace. Until the action happens and you are so packed with excited energy that you are bouncing trying to contain it. The beautiful writing continues into book three Valley with its vivid and lush words without being too flowery. This is what you want a book series to be.

Check out my full review of Ledge Book Review: On the Edge of the Ledge and be on the lookout for my review of the final book in the series Valley.

The Nightshade Crown by Hannah Whitten

Initially skeptical about The Foxglove King, I was lured in by its stunning covers and unique premise involving a court and a death-based magic system. Though I worried it might fall short, it eventually found its rhythm, evolving into an enjoyable story. The plot is layered with intriguing elements like the Arcenauex family, the Bleeding God, and the Night Witch, making it feel like a story within a story. The gothic atmosphere, intertwined with themes of death and heavy church influence, gave it a rich, almost historical depth.

Overall, I genuinely had a good time reading The Foxglove King, and while I didn’t immediately dive into book 2 The Hemlock Queen, I will be continuing the story to see what happens with Gabriel, Lore, and Bastian.

Check out my full review The Foxglove King: A Review Of Death Magic And Forbidden Romance.

The War of Lost Hearts by Carissa Broadbent

I picked up Daughter of No Worlds after it sat on my shelves for a little over a year, and I have to say that it exceeded all of my expectations. If you are looking for something that will give you the same vibes at Aelin Ashryver Galathynius then you have to read Daughter of No Worlds.

Tisaanah is a former slave who scraped together enough gold to purchase her freedom. However, when negotiations with her master take a deadly turn, she’s forced to flee for her life. Seeking refuge, she journeys to Ara, where she becomes a member of the Order, a revered group of magic practitioners.

Driven by a desire to harness the latent magical abilities she’s possessed since childhood, Tisaanah is determined to undergo training within the Order. These powers, once merely a facet of her performance repertoire, now hold the key to her liberation.

Yet, Tisaanah’s aspirations extend beyond personal advancement. With the Order’s support, she intends to return to Threll and orchestrate the emancipation of her fellow slaves. Wielding her newfound magic to dismantle the chains of oppression that bind them.

The writing is beautiful and captivating. Making it easy to immerse yourself in the world and experience everything that Tisaanah goes through. She is stubborn and determined just like Aelin. You won’t help but fall in love with her. Tisaanah and Max are enough to make you want to continue this book series.

Crescent City by Sarah J. Maas

Crescent City was a series that grew on me. I disliked House of Earth and Blood, feeling like it was overwritten. With unnecessary details and a story that drags until it ramps up in the end. The storytelling has an edge about it, with a dark and murderous vibe (due to the murder mystery) and a pace that goes from snail’s pace to rocket launcher.  What I liked about the story is the mature approach to storytelling. Setting itself apart from Sarah’s previous works (A Court of Thorns and Roses, and Throne of Glass) while blending those worlds seamlessly.

On the flip side of my lack of buy-in at the beginning of the first book House of Earth and Blood, I was immediately hooked on House of Sky and Breath. In fact, it’s superior in the Crescent City series. Which I am told is the opposite of what most readers feel. Going into House of Sky and Breath, I knew it would be an epic continuation of the war and battles happening in HOEAB. At least so far, I am currently reading House of Flame and Shadow. *side note* follow me on Goodreads

I have a full review of the book series. Check out my full review Ultimate Crescent City Series Review: Exploring the Magic

Series I am Patiently (Not So Patiently) Waiting for the Next Book

The Summoner’s Circle by S.T. Gibson

Evocation is a character-driven story with minimal plot, focused more on relationships and character evolution than intricate fantasy. The narrative follows David, Moira, and Rhys. David has rough edges and Moira, a witty and powerful wise woman, helps smooth him out. Rhys, stubbornly resisting his feelings for David, ultimately gives in, adding romantic tension.

The book leans heavily on romance and character dynamics, rather than a detailed magical world. The elements of magic and society are often mentioned rather than shown, leading to some gaps in world-building. Despite these issues, the story delivers a compelling contemporary gothic romance, perfect for fall. It’s highly recommended for those who enjoy magic, secret societies, and character-driven drama.

Check out my full review ‘Evocation’ by S.T. Gibson: Embracing the Magic Within

Lyonesse by Sierra Simone

All I have to say about the Lyonesse series is OMG SIERRA late 2025 for book three. I am unwell. I need it NOW! Sierra Simone is easily becoming one of my favorite writers of the year!

The Branded Season by Jo Riccioni

The Branded Season series is one that I was on the fence about while reading. It took a while to hook me and draw it into its embrace. But once it did I couldn’t wait to get to book two. The Branded blooms into a magical little tale. With excellent foreshadowing, leaving crumbs and revealing with each step taken and feeling like the warmth of a cup of tea sitting against your hands on a frigid day. I knew I was hooked when the FMC Nara’s questions became my own.

But with a glowing review also comes some gripes. One from a reader’s perspective The Branded would have been better coming from a dual POV. One of course from Nara’s but also one perspective from a Branded like maybe Wrangler’s with them eventually converging into one. Not only are the Branded major players in the storyline but so is Wrangler. This would have given more dimension to the story. Nevertheless, I can’t wait for book two to release in 2025. Check out my full review of Jo Riccioni’s The Branded: A Must-Read Book Review

Shadows of the Crown by Dakota Monroe

I struggled to decide between 3 or 4 stars for Shadows of the Crown. The story begins with a captivating line, introducing Ariella, a fierce assassin known as the Silver Wraith. Ariella’s quest for revenge against the king for her father’s death drives the narrative, and her character development, especially her gradual openness around Caspian, was well done.

However, the world-building and magic systems were lacking. There were vague settings and not enough detail to ground the story, making some parts feel like filler. The book finally picks up in the last few chapters, where a mystery involving Ariella’s parents emerges. If this mystery had been introduced earlier, it could have enhanced the world-building and made the plot more engaging throughout. Because of this mysterious introduction I am squarely in the please hurry book two along. Shadows of the Crown was not perfect by no means but I am intrigued enough to really want to continue the series.

I have a full review of The Allure of Shadows of the Crown: Forbidden Magic and Hidden Hearts

The Bloodsworn Saga by John Gwynne

If you haven’t read my review that I did over on Jackie’s page After the Last Page you should check it out. The Bloodsworn trilogy is full of epic battles and long-dead Gods returned to life. It is laden with darkness and menacing secrets. I have realized that the best way for me to digest the dense epic world that John Gwynne creates is via audio.

Reading this way relieved some of the hang-ups that I had reading The Shadow of the Gods. The plotline starts immediately where The Shadow of the Gods ended. Recapping the first book in such a genius way that I wish all sequel books did. The Hunger of the Gods was an action-packed, God-filled epic adventure. The final book in the Bloodsworn trilogy, The Fury of the Gods is one of my most anticipated reads of 2024, and releases in October. I just received my ARC, I can’t wait.

Devourer of Men by Nikki St. Crowe

Devourer of Men is my latest obsession. After reading The Vicious Lost Boys series last year I couldn’t wait to get more into ROC and the Captain. And let me say it DOES NOT DISAPPOINT! I loved it so much that I reread it a month later and have been thinking about it ever since. I need the rest of this story, and I am sad that it will only be a duet.

Fae Devils by Lana Pecherczyk

If you should know anything about me (beyond my superior reading taste) is that I am not a patient person. So, when book two of the Fae Devils series was released I immediately downloaded it on Kindle Unlimited and proceeded to devour it. Why do I say that I am not a patient person? Because waiting for book three in a series I absolutely adore is torture. The Fae Devil series EASILY makes my top series of the year and book two Trials of Dusk and Dream probably takes the top spot (but you will have to wait and see).