This week, Michael Popple recommends three awesome books to become addicted to over the holidays. You can find more of Michael’s book reviews on his blog: unseenlibrary.comÂ
Endgame by Sarah Barrie
HQ, $34.99
Kick the holidays off right with some dark Australian fiction, as Sarah Barrie concludes her Lexi Winter series with Endgame. Former vigilante Lexi Winter finally has her life on track. However, everything is about to come crashing down when her nemesis, the sadistic Vaughn, returns issuing a challenge. Five people are about to die and if Lexi can save one, he will turn himself in. So begins a chilling game that will push Lexi to the edge of sanity. Endgame is an exceptionally intense novel that takes the reader on a shocking ride. A powerful and gripping read to while away the break.
Blood Over Bright Haven by M. L. Wang
Del Rey, $34.99
Your new holiday obsession is the fantasy novel Blood Over Bright Haven. Sciona has spent 20 years becoming the first female mage admitted to the High Magistry, but when she arrives, she encounters scorn from her male coworkers. Assigned only a janitor as an assistant, Sciona tries to prove herself. But her obsession to be the best leads to her uncovering a staggering magical conspiracy. Wang deeply impresses with this outstanding standalone novel that you won’t be able to turn away from. Brilliantly inventive, and loaded with shocking twists, this is one of the best fantasy books of 2024.
Revenge of Rome by Simon Scarrow
Headline, $34.99
Finally, lovers of action can get lost in the amazing historical fiction novel Revenge of Rome this holiday season. Brittania, 61 AD. Boudica’s horde has been defeated, but the warrior queen is still free and fermenting further revolts. Desperate to end the threat Boudica poses, Rome assigns Prefect Cato and Centurion Macro to hunt her down. But Boudica is no easy target, and the Romans will have no peace until she is captured or killed. Scarrow continues to excel as the top author of Roman historical fiction, and Revenge of Rome is an epic and exciting read ideal for the beach or pool this summer.
