Kara Dennison's Blog, page 5

June 2025 Book Reviews

Summer is here, and it's hot. That's the bad news. The good news is, lots of summer reads are coming out! Fortunately, everything I'm reviewing here is 100% real. Which already puts most indie reviewers ahead of the curve.

Read on to sample romantasy, historical fiction for young readers, summery rom-coms, sexy noir comics, and a retelling of a classic ballet. Thanks as always to the authors and publishers who provide me with advance copies!

Bookish Candle: Frostbeard's June candle is Summer Thriller: a deep and mysterious blend of oud and amber with coconut notes to keep it summery. If you love a candle with a scent that fills a room, definitely give this one a try. Use my link to get 20% off your purchase of this and other book lovers' candles!

Tea Pairing: Chapters is back in business! Right now, I'm keeping cool in my home library with iced Poetic Peach: a caffeine-free fruit tea with tart peach and hibiscus notes. Check out Chapters' full catalogue of bookish teas, and use my code KARA15 for 15% off your order!

Always Be My Bibi
by Priyanka Taslim
Available now

16-year-old Bibi Hossain was convinced she wouldn't get to date for years, thanks to her father's rule: no boyfriends until Bibi's big sister Halima gets married. But things could be turning around, because Halima is engaged to tea garden heir Sunny, and the whole family is flying to Bangladesh for the wedding! For Bibi, though, this means splitting her time between wedding prep and putting in hours on her soon-to-be in-laws' tea garden. While there, she meets Sunny's younger brother Sohel. And while the two don't initially hit it off, they eventually become reluctant friends with a few shared goals in mind.

Goal 1? Break up Halima and Sunny so Halima doesn't have to give up on her law school dreams. Goal 2? Find Bibi a summer boyfriend from the local eligible bachelors. And, seemingly most impossible of all, find Bibi's grandmother's long lost college boyfriend. The first two of these goals are going swimmingly at first, but social and generational expectations threaten to cause a much bigger rift than either of them anticipated. Worst of all, Bibi might be catching feelings for Sohel.

While Always Be My Bibi does follow the teen rom-com novel format ("Boy meets girl, girl makes massive mistakes, rinse and repeat"), the novel's rooting in Bengali culture and tradition makes things a little less cut-and-tried than they might be in other books. The novel celebrates the beauty of the region while calling out its turbulent history; it praises the strength and importance of certain traditions while acknowledging that others could perhaps do more harm than good. This isn't the story of one teenager messing up constantly—it's the story of two families finding themselves at the intersection of their youngest members, and deciding what faith and tradition should look like at that intersection. This, presented through the eyes of a narrator who's imperfect but earnest and relatable, makes for a delightful summer romance.

A Dance of Lies
by Brittany Arena
Available now

Once, Vasalie Moran was Prince Illian's Jewel—the prized dancer in his court. But two years shackled in prison, framed for a crime she didn't commit, have left her weak and ill. But Illian offers Vasalie another chance: be his right hand at the Gathering, six weeks of artistry and feasting attended by all the royals of the region, and she will go free.

Vasalie may no longer be enamored of Illian, but she craves her freedom and is willing to play her part as a dancer/spy. But the more she learns about the people she's hurting, the more she shies away from her duties. Torn between feelings for her new dance partner and Illian's brother Anton, she begins digging deeper into Illian's schemes. And what she discovers could tear apart the whole kingdom. As her own past comes back to haunt her, she navigates new loyalties and new prophecies, hoping to save multiple nations before she herself breaks.

As a novel, A Dance of Lies does suffer a bit from some late-stage exposition dumps. Most of the story is threaded through beautifully, with the different threads coming together in the final chapters. But there is a bit of villainous monologuing that trips up otherwise excellent pacing. As a metaphor for disability, this novel shines. In her foreword, Brittany Arena is open about her struggle with POTS and how it is reflected in Vasalie's post-incarceration condition. It's a powerful statement not just on how chronic conditions can bring a person down, but on how those conditions can be overcome with creativity and perseverance. Life may not be the same as before, but it can still be made beautiful.

Heat Seeker: Exposed #1
by Charles Ardai and Ace Continuado
Available now

Pulp noir comic series Gun Honey continues its spinoff series Heat Seeker this month, focusing on the (not really) redheaded "mistress of misdirection" Dahlia Racers. Main series heroine Joanna Tan takes a back seat as Dahlia puts all her skills to the test to evade the most tenacious of foes: an online investigative journalist.

What does "Bitch with a Bone" Jacqueline McGee want with Dahlia? Simply put, her next big story—which she plans to hype up to her one million followers. But Dahlia isn't just protecting herself. She has others at home: people who need to be out of the spotlight even more than she does. In this first issue of the new story arc, Dahlia uses all the skills at her disposal to evade McGee's all-seeing eyes. But as issue #1 closes, we learn that Racers may have met her match in McGee.

Readers not already familiar with the Gun Honey universe may feel a little adrift in the first few pages, but any backstory is secondary to the real draw of Heat Seeker: Exposed. Long-time fans and newcomers alike can appreciate the steamy art, action-packed scenes, and cat-and-mouse tension between Dahlia and her new foe. It's a fun and exciting way to immerse yourself in the Hard Case Crime line, and may just make you race back to the beginning of Gun Honey!

Threat of the Spider
by Michael P. Spradlin
Available June 24

In this follow-up to last year's Rise of the Spider, we once again follow 12-year-old Ansel as he navigates life, friendship, and family in Germany circa 1929. Ansel loves his family, detective stories, and playing football with his friends. But as the Hitler Youth build an increasing presence in his town, everything he holds dear starts to fall apart.

Heinrich Himmler is preparing to make an appearance in town, and Ansel's journalist father intends to be present and report on the event. But after Ansel and his friends trounce some of the local Hitler Youth in a game of capture-the-flag, things turn dire when his father goes missing. It turns out the uprising in his hometown is more than just classmates in new uniforms and angry sympathizers throwing rocks through windows. Lives are on the line.

It's never easy to talk about turbulent times in history, and even more difficult to do so for young readers. But Spradlin's Web of the Spider series continues to thread the needle adeptly—presenting believable young people in a setting that meets middle-grade readers right where they are. It's never too dense (and indeed includes a glossary of important terms), nor does it talk down to readers. And while the book rests largely on detective aspirations and schoolyard games, it never shies away from the true terrors of fascism. This is a book worth reading, sharing, and talking about.

A Treachery of Swans
by A.B. Poranek
Available June 24

Thrown away by her birth family for her status as a gold-blooded sorcier, Odile found purpose as the adopted daughter and right hand of Rothbarte: the scheming masked director of the local theatre. He wants to bring back magic, healing the land of its curse of withered flowers and black snow. But to do so will require one last job from Odile: infiltrate the palace in the guise of Marie d'Odette, the so-called "Swan Princess," and obtain the goddess-gold crown that gives the royal family its power.

But this is easier said than done, even leaving aside Odile's complicated feelings for her childhood friend. The palace is crawling with dark legends and treachery—and just as the disguised Odile arrives, the king is found brutally murdered, the Dauphin's guard (and her estranged brother) Damien the only suspect. To solve the murder, Odile will have to breath the spell hiding Odette away in the shape of a swan. But digging into the mysteries of the palace, and of the goddesses who allegedly abandoned their people, will unearth an even darker history and set off a deadly battle.

A.B. Poranek debuted with Where the Dark Stands Still, which I reviewed in early 2024. Just as that book wove an enchanting story based in Slavic folklore, A Treachery of Swans spins the threads of Swan Lake into something new. Told from the point of view of "black swan" Odile, the ballet becomes a dark romance steeped in ancient legend and stolen magic. The contrasting personalities of Odette and Odile become two pieces of a larger puzzle, meant to fit together rather than contrast. Too, Poranek does a wonderful job weaving imagery from the original ballet into the narrative, from choices of outfit to the masked characters seen throughout. Whether you're a fan of the ballet or new to the story, it's a beautiful read.

Dravenor: A Dragon-Vampire Romantasy
by Yajna Ramnath
Available June 26

Nora knows relative few things about herself. She knows she is a daywalker: a vampire able to eat human food and stand in the sun. She knows she's about 100 years old. And she knows she's being horribly mistreated as a test subject in an institute overseen by ice dragon king Zayn Dravenor. When she escapes to the Firelands, ruled over by Zayn's brother Rhydian, she finds herself welcomed with surprising speed. And the sparks that fly between her and the fire dragon shifter are hard to deny.

But there's more going on. Nora is having flashbacks to her past life, and they seem to indicate a history with both Zayn and Rhydian. Moreover, there's some other power at work within her: something that sets her apart from her vampire kin. When the truth is revealed, though, it could tear apart two countries, and the relationship she's built with Rhydian.

Dravenor has its moments: there is clearly a lot of care and love put into it. But it feels very much like a first draft rather than a finished book, and one more keen on packing in romantasy tropes and quotable lines than developing the lore of this world or its characters. For example, I was constantly at sea on what exactly this fantasy world is. Is it an alternate version of our world with extra continents? While there are modern medical facilities, little is done to establish much beyond a generic fantasy tone. Meanwhile, Nora references Barbie, Oscars, and Frozen; she wears quippy vampire tees and ripped jeans; but this seems at odds with her surroundings rather than an extension of them. Too, there's a great deal of time spent establishing Nora as constantly sarcastic, to the point of being tiring and borderline unlikable. The fact that her reasons for being this way are never explored is a shame, as it could open up a wealth of compelling character development. As it stands, Dravenor speeds through much of its story, giving us little time to get to know or even like its triangle of protagonists. With another draft, this could become something truly beautiful and heartwarming.

TEA REVIEW: Plum Deluxe Earl Grey Month Sampler Kit

For the entirety of the month of June, Plum Deluxe is shining a spotlight on Earl Grey: the best of all teas (at least to me). All Earl Grey blends on their site will be available at quantity discounts throughout the month. And if you'd like to see what they have available, they're currently offering a sampler of 11 bergamot-based blends!

I picked up the sampler and tried all 11 varieties—nine of which will be available for a limited time only this month. How do these adventurous blends rank? Read on to find out, and to pick up any that sound good to you!

Note: I do not receive any sort of compensation for purchases made through Plum Deluxe. This is a review based on teas I purchased myself. Enjoy!

Aloha Blend Black Tea: 3.5/5
Also listed as "Pineapple Grey," this one isn't quite as Earl Grey-y as the others. That doesn't stop this from being a refreshing summer tea that would be fantastic iced. But it doesn't quite fit the flavor profile I'd expect while seeking out Earl Grey blends. Is it a good tea? Yes. Is it a good Grey?... others in the box absolutely outshine it.

Caribbean Grey: 4/5
I've had watermelon oolong before and liked it very much, but I wasn't entirely sure I'd enjoy this one. Fortunately, this new blend turned out rather nice. It doesn't suffer from an artificial watermelon candy flavor, but has an undertone of sweet tartness that's very nice for summer. This one would be amazing iced.

Crème Brulée Earl Grey: 4/5
This is a lovely one, and it's what I really wanted the Honey Caramel Grey Black to be in terms of sweetness. A great dessert tea, and one I think would work extremely well as a milk tea. Fortunately, this is one of the two Greys that's available year-round!

Earl Grey Chai: 5/5
I'll be honest, I was legitimately not expecting to enjoy this one. I like chai, I like Earl Grey, but I wasn't sure if two very strong, very specific flavors could go together like that. I was wrong, and I was glad to be wrong. This is really really lovely. It's not a spicy or peppery chai, meaning it blends nicely with the bergamot. This would make an absolutely astounding milk tea.

Earl Grey Royale: 4/5
No muss, no fuss, just straight-up Earl Grey. This is a good way to figure out if Plum Deluxe's take on Earl Grey is right for you. While it's not really as strong as I personally like it (I am a triple bergamot fiend), it is a very nice one. If you like Earl Grey but are averse to the brands that advertise the strength of the bergamot, this will be a nice middle ground for you.

Grantham Grey: 4.5/5
Before trying Plum Deluxe teas, I'd never had violet in tea before. As a big fan of florals, I was not at all disappointed, and I'm still a big fan of it in the Grantham Grey. The bergamot takes a back seat in this one, blending nicely with the violet essence and letting it take center stage. This isn't one for days when you specifically want the citrus tang of bergamot, but it's definitely a delicious one.

Gratitude Earl Grey: 4/5
It's easy to see why this is a mainstay. It's a strong Grey that doesn't skimp on flavor. And while the strawberry is a bit weak until it cools off, it's a nice complement to the bergamot. This is another that's perfect for a milk tea, and might even go well iced.

Honey Caramel Grey: 4/5
This is one of the flavors I was most excited about—I recently had a Bridgerton-themed tea with honey notes and have been seeking out that same flavor ever since. This one is very naturally sweet, which is nice, but it goes over better when it's a little cooler. The rooibos comes on a bit too strong when it's piping hot. Much as with the Grantham Grey, this one isn't as bergamot-forward, with the flavor blending into the other notes.

Lady Grey: 5/5
Lady Grey tends to be an underappreciated take on Earl Grey. It's subtler, but it can still have a lot of flavor and uniqueness. The Plum Deluxe version has vanilla notes, which balances things out nicely. While a lot of the other blends in this sampler have the bergamot as a secondary element, it really stands out here. This is one of the best of the sampler.

Tango Grey Herbal: 3/5
Full disclosure, I'm very picky about herbal teas. This one was fine, generally speaking, but the lemongrass drowned out just about everything. If you aren't very specifically a fan of lemongrass, give this one a miss. It's approaching a nice decaf Grey blend otherwise, though.

Victorian Garden Grey: 4.5/5
This was the first one I tried, despite being the last one on the list (alphabetically, at least)—and it was a strong start. This Grey is primarily about berries and floral, though the floral notes tend to drown out the berry a bit. The scent of the tea is much more balanced. None of this stops the tea from being really great, with a very lavender-forward flavor.

Order the Earl Grey Month Sampler Kit.

My Three Favorite Cozy Places on the Peninsula

 

It would be nice if I could always travel to my favorite places in the world—but that gets expensive. To that end, I've tried to be a little more supportive of my own hometown and find places nearby where I can get out, get away, and have a relaxing afternoon or evening. And fortunately, I found several, all relatively close to where I grew up.
As I write this up on a particularly rainy day, I'm thinking about these lovely little places: places where I can do some reading or writing, shop for books, or otherwise enjoy myself in the kind of atmosphere I crave. And it doesn't hurt that everything on this list is a small business, and I am all about shouting out small businesses wherever I can!

Busy Nothings Coffee
All I have to say to my friends is "Jane Austen themed coffee shop" and no further context is needed. Busy Nothings Coffee is tucked away in the shops of Port Warwick, right where Discover Teas used to have their Peninsula store. The inside is bright enough for reading but dim enough for calm, and the seating is separated out so you can have just about as much privacy as you want. Some networking groups use it as a meeting place, and for good reason! Just be sure to avoid lunch hour if you're aiming for peak quiet time.
The menu features coffee and tea (including Chapters teas!), blended energy drinks, and a variety of sweet and savory meal and snack options. Literary fans will love the Jane Austen, Bridgerton, and Outlander-themed selections. My go-to is a Daphne and the Duke (rose cardamom tea latte) and an order of their pimento cheese with crackers. The staff are super friendly and helpful and the shop itself is welcoming—pretty much everything I have coming out in the near future will issue in whole or in part from a series of writing sessions there.

Paperbacks Ink
In the other direction is Paperbacks Ink, a shop that's been around for a while but is under new management as of a few years ago. This purveyor of new and used books is a godsend, whether you're an avid reader or a local author.
Thanks to their business model, which runs largely on donations of used books, Paperbacks Ink can offer both new and used books at consistent, affordable prices. They also host events, rent out event space, and have great deals for local authors looking to showcase their books. It makes me extremely happy that there's a non-chain bookstore nearby, and one that's looking to spotlight local talent!
In the back, there's Tastefully Philly Cafe, right near some well-placed tables and outlets. While I haven't had everything on their menu, what they do offer is fantastic. I'm a big fan of the chickpea salad sandwich. And when they say they have "the best banana pudding" (a bold claim not far from a certain barbecue restaurant famous for theirs)... they're not kidding.

Styx & Stones Moon Market

If you like outdoor markets but don't like the push and shove of larger locations, the Moon Market hits the perfect balance. Set along Main Street in my beloved Historic Hilton Village, the event is hosted by Styx & Stones and takes place on the first Friday evening of every month (weather permitting). Artists, crafters, food and drink vendors—and yes, local authors!—can grab a table outside the Village's historic shops.

Though I've only just started attending these, I've already seen a broad span of goods at the stalls. New books, soaps, scents, cookies, accessories, knickknacks, and artwork are all on display. There was even a tabletop gaming vendor offering some really gorgeous 3D-printed terrain, and a trailer serving up coffee.

Wander down between 6 and 9 pm on the first Friday of each month. Heck, I might even sell some books there someday in the future.

While I do travel a lot, and London is probably my favorite city in the world, these little corners of Newport News mean a lot to me. If you're ever in the area, be sure to give them a look. And wherever you are, it's always a good idea to support small businesses. They're the places that make us feel the most welcome.

May 2025 Book Reviews

 

April and May are rough months here at the house, but I always appreciate people dropping in with their thoughts on my work. There's a wide range of reads this month, from teen romance at theme parks to code-cracking and monster-hunting.

Once the busy season at work is a little more stabilized, I also intend to get back to TBR reviews. Handling the spring and summer rush means I have less time to just sit and read, but I'm hoping to have that in hand soon. I have a lot of recommended books that I very much want to get to—and share with all of you!

Bookish Candle: This month's Frostbeard Candle is Next Chapter: a surprisingly subtle scent that's perfect for the incoming warmer weather. If you (like me) are from a region where it's started getting a little humid and you'd like something a little lighter, this is a perfect one to pick up. Use my link to get 20% off your purchase of this and other book lovers' candles!

Tea Pairing: As Chapters Tea & Co. continues their move, I'm exploring more tea brands. I've found one local to me: Brown Leaf Tea Bar! They're regulars at the weekly farmer's market in my neighborhood. With warmer weather creeping in, I highly recommend their Peach Oolong, iced!

Silver Elite
by Dani Francis
Available Now

In Wren's world, there are the Primes and there are the Mods. Primes are, well, human. Mods possess supernatural powers—telepathy, healing, and other mind-bending abilities—whose use is evidenced by the activation of silver veins on their arms. Except for Wren: despite her many Mod abilities, her veins do not betray her. This has allowed her to live peacefully, honing her skills and working her way into a role in the Mod Uprising. But all that changes when her guardian is caught and publicly executed, and Wren is taken into custody.

Fortunately, her shielding and deception skills land her not in prison, but in a training camp for the Prime military. Overseen by the handsome Cross and surrounded on all sides by people who would want her dead if they knew her secrets, Wren initially deliberately underperforms in hopes of being let go. But things change: the Uprising challenges her to get accepted into the prestigious Silver Elite when other Mod operatives are taken out. Not only that, but she's taken a liking to Cross. (She's also taking a liking to Kaine, a very forward fellow trainee.) As she attempts to stay alive and navigate her new normal, she keeps a mental link open to "Wolf": an old friend who knows her better than anyone.

While Silver Elite has solid action, worldbuilding, and suspense, it is very much a by-the-numbers dystopian YA romance. Special girl gets involved in dangerous mission, falls for two very different guys, and disrupts the status quo as she does. It goes through the motions to the point that one of the biggest reveals of the book is broadcast from the first handful of chapters for anyone who's ever read something within the genre. The last chapter implies further books to follow, so there is room for Silver Elite to grow beyond the field it's planted in. But, while solidly written and plotted, it brings nothing new to a genre desperately in need of shaking up.

The Language of the Birds
by K.A. Merson
Available Now

17-year-old Arizona lives a quiet life of exploration on the road with her mother and her dog Mojo. But everything changes on a sightseeing trip: her mother disappears, their camper is invaded, and shadowy figures are sending Arizona strange ciphers. The only way to get her mother back, it seems, will be by cracking these codes.

Fortunately, Arizona is a genius when it comes to ciphers and research. And she has moral support from Lily, a new friend she made before her world was turned upside down. Together, the two (and their dogs) follow a trail of literary codes and alchemical symbols, decoding a seemingly impossible truth about the history of the United States and the "Great Work." Could the ancient philosophers have been on to something? And if so, what did Arizona's late father have to do with it?

So many YA intrigue novels aim low, but The Language of the Birds never underestimates its readers. Even the most astute code-crackers and historians will find themselves stumped as we follow Arizona from campsites to national monuments in search of the truth. This storyline would stand alone just fine on its own, but there's more joy to be found in Arizona's own coming-of-age. As she fights to save her mother, she learns to open up to new friends in a world that until now has been too big, too loud, and too untrustworthy.

Meet Me at Wonderland
by Julia DeVillers
Available Now

14-year-old Coco Cooper has dreamed of working at Wonderland Adventure Park, her family's pride and joy in the Adirondacks. Even being forced to dress as Morty, the park mascot, on her first day can't ruin her vibe. Better yet, Henry is also working there. He's a cute soccer player using the summer to pursue a part-time job while his ankle heals. And while Coco is initially jealous of Henry's astounding work ethic (and the attention it earns him), the two eventually find themselves hitting it off.

There's just one problem: the park has buyers swarming around it, and Henry's businessman dad seems awfully interested in the ins and outs of Wonderland. It's not long before Henry discovers he's been an unwitting pawn in a move that could alter the entire future of the park. And knowing how much of Coco's heart is in the family business, this could spell disaster on multiple levels.

Meet Me at Wonderland is an adorable rom-com for middle readers, and of special interest for anyone who's had a part-time job at (or an attachment to) the local theme park. While older readers will see the plot twist a mile out, younger readers will enjoy following the dramatic plot to its climax high above the park. While the usual "lack of communication for the sake of drama" rules are in effect, those are somewhat counteracted by an ending that is less by-the-numbers than one might expect. 

The Sin Bin
by Robbie Thompson and Patricio Delpeche
Available Now

Cat looks up to her dad, minor league hockey player Dukes, more than anyone. She can't understand why he's yet to make it to the big show yet. But one night, when she follows him to what she assumes is his big night on the ice, she learns the truth: her father is a monster hunter! Wielding a magic sword disguised as a hockey stick, he conquers strange beasts and sends them to their own paranormal time-out box: a glowing cube he terms the Sin Bin.

Now that Cat knows her dad's secrets, she's part of the family business—whether he likes it or not. But her enthusiasm will lead her to dig up secrets he'd much rather leave buried. As it turns out, there's more to her mother's disappearance than Dukes let on. And while Dad may prefer not to know how the Sin Bin actually works, what lies inside could change the world as we know it.

If "father/daughter hockey playing monster hunters" sounds awesome—that's because it is. The Sin Bin is a spirited comic book miniseries full of action, drama, and family secrets. As fun and scary as it is, it's also surprisingly sentimental. And the final pages are packed with extra art and alternate covers—so even if you read this one issue by issue, it's worth getting your hands on the graphic novel version.

How to Write a Black Archive

 

Not long ago, I got an email from a fellow writer asking about the best way to pitch a Black Archive. I'm currently one of the editors for the line, and I've written one myself (with a second currently in edits). With the series getting more popular and people actively wanting to take part, it's a great question. I'm not the one and only authority on it—there are four of us—but I had a crack at explaining what makes for a good Archive from my point of view.
While Black Archive submissions are currently closed as we go over our latest batch of pitches, there is an open window for its sister series, The Silver Archive. The same rules apply, but about television series other than Doctor Who. And, of course, there will be other opportunities to pitch to the Black Archive.
So, for the curious, here is (more or less) the outline I gave of How To Pitch An Archive.

Care About the Story You're CoveringThis may seem like a no-brainer, but it really helps if what you're covering is something you actively want to talk about. In terms of the Black Archive, I had a lot of thoughts about Heaven Sent when it first aired, and a surprising (to me) number of thoughts about the 20th century serial I'm covering for my next one when I rewatched it. I'm already planning a third because I was so affected by it that my first thought upon finishing the episode was, "I need to talk about this."
That desire to cover something doesn't have to be earth-shattering, but it has to be at least there-ish. Maybe an episode touches on a period of history or an aspect of fiction in which you take a special interest. Maybe it's an episode you love and you want an excuse to dig deeper. Whatever the reason, the desire to cover it should be significantly above "I suppose I could do that."

Have Something Unique to Say
A big reason we might reject an Archive pitch is because there's nothing in it that we can't find on blogs, entertainment websites, or as part of social media discussions. And there's nothing wrong with those points—it's just not the purview of the Archive. The point of these books is to dig deeper in some way; and what that way is depends on the writer.
For instance, I'm really into literary analysis, the psychology of the characters within the series, and how we as viewers interact with Doctor Who. My Heaven Sent book had a chapter on the psychology of the person who takes on the title of "Doctor," and how this episode opens up that interpretation. I also covered what the Confession Dial is, both through Jungian analysis and from the point of view of video game programming.
That doesn't mean yours has to follow those same rules. We've had some Archives that are very dense and historical, others that are more personal. Some focus on the words of the writers, while others lean on mythology and other television shows of the time. What flavor the approach is doesn't matter, as long as there's some meat on it.

Fully Explain Your Trajectory
Another thing that might get an Archive pitch rejected, or at least sent back for a second go, is a lack of idea as to where your book will be going. It wouldn't be enough to write, say, "I will look at Heaven Sent through a Jungian lens." It would be enough to say, "Utilizing Jung's 'dream house,' I will analyze the castle inside the Confession Dial room by room, both demonstrating how Heaven Sent uses this approach for storytelling purposes and examining how this lays bare the Doctor's grief and hidden emotional side." A write-up like this gives us an idea of what we have in hand, and also reassures us that you have a clear thesis in mind.
Of course, I know as well as anyone that things change as you do research. The things I discovered while reading through Tolkien's letters and perusing the history of PTSD diagnosis for my latest Black Archive changed a lot of assumptions I had when I put my pitch together. That's fine. We just want to see where you're leading us.

Read Some Archives
Ideally, read more than one! Find some about your favorite episodes or eras and dig in. Reading more than one will also give you a broader view of what these books entail, whereas reading just one might lead you to think that there's only one way to write an Archive. And, as mentioned above, there's not.
The Archives do have several things in common, but those are all to do with the caliber of research and writing. You don't have to reference weighty academic textbooks or write in dense language. One question I was asked was how academic your sources have to be. In response I pointed out that my bibliography for my next book references a few academic papers and books, but also several interviews, blog posts, the DSM-5, an opera, and a manga. To name a few. It doesn't matter if the sources are "highbrow" or intellectual. It matters that they're good, reliable, and relevant.
As mentioned, there are not currently any Black Archive calls out at the time of posting this. (If you're reading this in the future, that could change—check Obverse's social media!) But there's a lot of Doctor Who to cover, and there's the Silver Archive for shows further afield, so keep an eye out! I always look forward to reading more pitches!

COMIC REVIEW: Doctor Who - Everyone Must Go

 

Doctor Who as a franchise is magnificent in large part because of the sheer amount of spinoffs. (And I don't just say that because of my personal involvement in some of them!) From whole other worlds in the Whoniverse to tight tie-ins, there's always something new to discover. It's how we kept ourselves fed during the Wilderness Years, and it's not stopped just because it's on the air again.
I am largely new to the comics, though I've enjoyed immersing myself in them more. The latest across my desk, thanks to the lovely people at Titan Comics, is the Fifteenth Doctor tie-in Everyone Must Go. The new story takes the Doctor and Ruby from the times of Dick Turpin to a future shopping mall—introducing a screamworthy new baddie and shades of horrors from Doctor Who eras past.

The Story
As noted toward the beginning of this collection, Everyone Must Go takes place directly after the episode Rogue. We are still in the midst of the mysteries of Ruby Sunday's mother and Susan Triad's identity, and the concept of a pantheon lurking around the edges of the Whoniverse is in play. This new adventure takes the current Team TARDIS from the (relatively) recent past to the far future—from a skewed 1700s to the last shopping center on Earth.
Led (or perhaps lured) to the mall, the Doctor and Ruby discover a lost little girl in its halls. And, it would seem, Cybermen are here as well. But the truth is far more convoluted. At the heart of this adventure is a new villain: the Scream Sommelier, an interdimensional being who bottles and preserves the universe's rarest and most horrified screams. But the Sommelier has one very specific white whale: the scream of a Time Lord.
As the story progresses, subjecting Earth's last shoppers to unspeakable terrors and jumping across dimensions, one question remains: what truly frightens the Doctor?

The Lore
Writing for a Doctor Who character and writing for a Doctor Who era are two very different animals. The new material for Tales of the TARDIS tells us as much. It's quite possible to write a character pitch-perfect while still leaving them detached from their era; or to nail the vibe of an era with characters that sound off. Fortunately, Everyone Must Go masters both.
The Doctor and Ruby are in fine form, striking that bizarre but unmistakable balance between "we're both suffering from childhood trauma" and "we can't go on an adventure without a fashion show first." In addition to characterization, it latches nicely (for the most part) into the Sutekh-centric storyline of "Season 1." The comic's original run began around the time Rogue aired, so any benefit of hindsight would have come from sneak peeks at the episodes to come. Regardless of whether the creative staff were informed in advance or just well-guided by the powers that be, everything fits in beautifully.
Of particular note is the Sommelier's seeming fourth wall break. There comes a point when he tidily folds away some panels of the comic. Once again, the RTD2 era is breaking the boundaries of the medium to reach out to us. Does that make the Sommelier a member of the Pantheon? That's one to think on.

The Rest
Kelsey Ramsay is certainly a talented artist, but the art of Everyone Must Go is definitely "your mileage may vary." The rough, modern style feels appropriate to the era, but it does have one flaw: likenesses fall apart a bit. For the Doctor and Ruby, this isn't that big a deal. Between their iconic accoutrements and the fact that they tend to own whatever scene they're in, we're unlikely to lose them in a crowd.
The problem comes when trying to integrate the Susan Triad subplot. In the final few pages, it's revealed that one of the shoppers was yet another Susan Twist. Falling in line with the events of Rogue, the Doctor and Ruby were to the point of noticing her presence, though they didn't yet know who she was. And yet, for the life of me, I could not see a character that struck me as intentionally a Susan Twist lookalike. Perhaps it was a later addition; perhaps we weren't meant to actually spot her. But it feels a bit odd to call it out without either doing it or making it clear that it's been done.
All that aside, that is one flaw in a broadly fun comic. The many storylines—lost child Maria, the Sommelier's schemes, and Ruby's new bug friends—actually all tie together in a satisfactory way. Considering how heavy with subplots this story seemed, that's really impressive. Revisiting Ruby's very real fears, as well as examining what fear means to a Time Lord, was a great approach. But it does bear mentioning that I'm a Doctor Who fan who prefers the show when it's horror. So this comic is absolutely catering to me personally. Again. Your mileage may vary.
This is a story deeply rooted in the era it expands upon. If you're a fan of Ncuti Gatwa's Doctor, especially paired with Millie Gibson as Ruby Sunday, this belongs in your collection.
Doctor Who: The Fifteenth Doctor: Everyone Must Go is now available from Titan Comics.

TEA REVIEW: Plum Deluxe United Kingdom Loose Leaf Tea Sampler

 

Take three things I love—tea, limited-edition flavors, and (nearly) anything from the UK—put them in a box, and that's this new collection. Plum Deluxe, who have become one of my alternative tea outlets while my primary continues moving house, recently put this box on offer in two varieties. The box celebrates the tea brand's fifth year, and offers a variety of blends inspired by the history, culture, and (of course) tea traditions of the UK.

I'm tackling the ten flavors from the caffeinated selection (because I'm a bit less of an herbal tea girlie): from new takes on familiar flavors to some that, frankly, took me by surprise. And if you'd like to give these teas a try, check them out here! Incidentally, no discount code to offer here. This review isn't a collab or a sponsorship, and I don't get a kickback. Just me wanting a taste of the UK while I wait to go back.

Afternoon High Tea White: 4.5/5
White teas can be tricky, both to blend and to brew. While many fruit teas on this list are more fruit than tea, this one surprisingly manages to create a nice balance. The peach is definitely the foremost note, but the light white tea notes also come through. This one is lovely hot or iced, and is a nice choice for anyone who isn't a fan of actual leaf tea. It's also not as finicky as many other white teas when it comes to steep time.

Builder's Blend Black: 5/5
"Builder's tea" isn't a specific blend of tea, but rather a way of serving it: super-strong black tea with milk and sometimes sugar. Pairing a strong Assam with light caramel essence was a surprisingly effective way to get that across. (Most would go straight for vanilla.) That said, this blend also works as the basis for a builder's tea. The caramel doesn't overshadow the natural taste of the Assam, meaning it will stand up to a long steep and a generous splash of milk. As simple as it is, it's one of my top picks for this box.

Eton Mess Black: 4.5/5
If you don't know what Eton Mess is, the enclosed pamphlet will explain—and even give you a recipe for a single-serving version! This is a very complex blend, mixing flavor notes with black and rooibos teas, but the result is fantastic. It's sweet enough to not need sugar, but a little milk really elevates the vanilla notes. A perfect dessert tea.

Heritage Black Blend: 3.5/5
Overall, this tea has a lot to recommend it. Assam, African, and Darjeeling teas make up its base, and walnut essence and floral notes accentuate it. This tea also contains Vermont maple syrup extract—and don't get me wrong, I love maple, even in tea! But here, it comes on a little too strong, diluting a lot of the really nice tea accents. The maple does take a back seat as the tea gets cooler, so this might do better iced.

Highland Bramble Black: 4/5
At first glance, the teas in this blend seem like an odd match-up. There's black tea, there's smoky black tea, there's heather, and there's berry notes. But it all comes together in a surprisingly subtle tea. The smoke is more to the front (although not as strong as in a lapsang) the warmer the tea is, with the berry coming out more as it cools. It's a pleasant, less bold flavor, and one I definitely hope will be sold separately someday.

Mango Almond Oolong: 4.5/5
A surprisingly lovely one! As I've mentioned (and will mention) elsewhere, fruit teas in this box are often too much fruit and not enough tea. But this oolong strikes a perfect balance with the help of the almond flavor. While the blend itself is fantastic, its presence in a UK sampler seems a bit odd. It might have been nice to see another experimental blend in here. But the oddness of its presence doesn't change the fact that this is a very nice drink.

Mindful Morning Earl Grey: 5/5
I like a strong Earl Grey, and my go-to in recent months has been Chapters. But with them out of the running until May, Plum Deluxe is a very, very close second. I could smell the bergamot as soon as the hot water hit the leaves, and the blend itself is perfectly balanced with hints of orange peel and vanilla. Tea latte makers, this one is strong enough to stand up to extra milk and flavorful enough to complement your mix.

Pineapple Market Square Green: 4/5
One thing my hometown-away-from-home Colonial Williamsburg has in common with London is a mild obsession with pineapple motifs. But whereas the spiky fruit represents hospitality here, it's a sign of wealth and luxury in the Big Smoke. This pineapple green tea is very fruit-forward, with the green tea and green rooibos serving as a base more than as a flavor note. It would be great iced, and is a nice afternoon tea if you're looking for a bit less caffeine and a sweeter flavor.

Queen's Blend Green: 3.5/5
Much like the Pineapple Market Square Green before it, this is a green where the fruit overtakes the tea flavor. It's citrusy, which is nice, and will make for a solid iced tea. But if you're like me and actually enjoy the grassy, earthy notes of a green tea, you might feel like you're missing out a bit. It's nice enough—just doesn't taste much like a green.

Sunday Roast Black: 4.5/5
I'm a fan of savory teas, but I never get much chance to try them. This does what it says on the tin, mimicking a traditional Sunday roast. It doesn't get overly fancy: black tea, black pepper, rosemary, and a bit of orange peel. It's near perfect, and it's one I wish was sold on its own. This might not be for everyone, especially with the forwardness of the rosemary and black pepper. But if this ever goes on sale as a stand-alone, I'd encourage everyone to at least give it a try.

Pick up the Limited-Edition United Kingdom Loose Leaf Tea Sampler.

April 2025 Book Reviews

 

Sorry, but I hate warm weather. You're allowed to like it. But this starts the time of year when I long for chilly mornings and grey rainy days. I guess I could say something about how there are lots of new books blooming or some other flower metaphor, but... books!

I'm writing tired, what can I say. Enjoy these fantastic books, and thanks to the publishers who send these my way!

Bookish Candle: Green Gables Lane is one of my favorite scents ever from Frostbeard, and that's saying something. It's the Candle of the Month for April, and arrived just before the new Anne of Green Gables anime started airing! How's that for timing? Use my link to get 20% off your purchase of this and other book lovers' candles!

Tea Pairing: As we await the return of Chapters Tea & Co. during their cross-country move, I'm using this opportunity to explore other tea brands! This month, I'm getting to know the unique blends from Plum Deluxe. I'm currently enjoying their United Kingdom Loose Leaf Sampler, which includes ten unique teas to try. Look for my review of this collection on the blog next week!

ALL THE NOISE AT ONCE
by DeAndra Davis
Available now

Aiden Wright finally has his chance to join his brother on their high school's football team after an overstimulation meltdown killed his chances the previous summer. Even being a benchwarmer is a great start for him. But on the team's Superlative Night, the "Incident" happens. A teammate starts a fight with Aiden, a bystander calls the cops, and Brandon is arrested and accused of assaulting an officer.

Now Brandon's life is coming apart as he loses his scholarship, his place on the team, and potentially his freedom. As Aiden grapples with his new spot on the team and the guilt of being "at fault" for Brandon's arrest, he learns difficult truths about being a Black teen with autism—truths his parents attempted to shelter him from. Now, the trial that could make or break Brandon's entire life is approaching, and Aiden must figure out his role in the proceedings.

All the Noise at Once is a challenging read thematically, but one told with unprecedented honesty and care. Aiden's first-person narrative guides even inexperienced readers through the mind of a young person with autism, from the feelings that accompany sensory overload to the process of parsing hidden or falsified feelings. Best of all, the difficult topics between the covers are approached with realism, imperfection, and uncertainty. There isn't one character who knows best, there's no lapse into therapy speak or or carefully-worded monologue. The topics are difficult, and they're allowed to be difficult; and while there are some clear answers, others are more nebulous. Everyone, from the teens at the center of the story to the adult professionals, is allowed to be confused and angry and flawed as they confront injustice. Modern lit in general, and YA lit in particular, needs more of that freedom.

THE ANATOMY OF MAGIC
by J.C. Cervantes
Available now

Dr. Lily Estrada is going home—and "home" happens to be a magical hacienda in Mexico inhabited by the talented women of her family. All of them have a gift related to flowers, gifted to them through the sacrifice of their great-grandmother. Lily's is memory... and funnily enough, memories are torturing her right now. She's waiting out news on whether a routine surgery turned tragic will end her career as an ob-gyn. Her connection to her flower magic seems to be fading. And things only get worse when Sam, the man who broke her heart ten years ago, reappears as a guest at a wedding hosted by the Estradas.

The guilt of losing a patient, the heartbreak of her betrayal by Sam, and the fear that she's lost her goddess-given gift converge in a series of prophetic dreams. To reawaken her own magic, she'll have to reveal a long-buried secret to her family. Doing so brings even more secrets into the light, including the real reason for Sam's departure all those years ago. With the truth exposed, Lily makes a decision that threatens to alter the fate of her entire family and their connection to the land.

The Anatomy of Magic, like its preceding book The Enchanted Hacienda, has some definite Encanto vibes to it; but this is a complex romance intended for older readers. Even without reading the preceding novel, it's easy to get into the flow of the Estradas' home life. The legend at the heart of their powers is unique and surprisingly heartwarming, even though the limitations placed on the women of the family seem overly strict at first. If you're looking exclusively for romance with not much preamble, this is not the book for you. However, if you love character studies, family bonding, and slow-burn romances, this one will be just right.

BENNY ON THE CASE
by Wesley King
Available now

Benny lives in a retirement home in Newfoundland with his widowed mother, his best friend Mr. Tom, and the other senior residents. He also has Mosaic Down syndrome: a version of the condition that largely only affects Benny's appearance. But even that is enough to keep him out of a mainstream classroom for fear of bullying. He's finally fought his way into a class with the rest of his peers; and while there are indeed bullies, there's also new girl Salma from Seattle. And her expertise in technology and true crime will come in handy surprisingly soon.

A rash of burglaries has plagued the retirement home, and it won't take many more strikes to shut the place down—displacing not just the residents, but Benny and his mother as well. Together, he and Salma decide to crack the case themselves. But what starts as a bit of sleuthing ends up being much bigger than anyone bargained for. And as the pair seek out the truth behind Starflower's problems, they must also navigate constant bullying and the declining health of Mr. Tom.

Benny on the Case is a book full of love—not just for Newfoundland, but for the people among us who get put upon for being different. King's prose is witty, but never unbelievable as coming from the mouth and mind of its eleven-year-old protagonist. It contends with big issues: grief, abandonment, broken homes, and bullying, to name a few. But it also presents lessons and coping mechanisms that young readers can take to heart and learn from. It's also a great introduction to the cozy mystery genre for younger readers.

DEATH AT THE PLAYHOUSES
by Stuart Douglas
Available now

Fresh off a season of their hit series Floggit & Leggit, Edward Lowe and John Le Breton are off to do a bit of Shakespeare. John is filling in for an old friend, Sir Nathaniel Thompson, whose drunken antics have gotten him fired from the run of tragedies. Initially, John worries how he'll handle the social (and professional) awkwardness of taking over a role from a peer. But that soon becomes a non-issue when Nate is found brutally murdered near the playhouse.

While rehearsing for their turns onstage, the pair step into their other roles: those of amateur detectives. But the situation is more delicate this time, as John's ex-wife Sally has turned up unexpectedly in the midst of proceedings—and far too close to the criminal proceedings surrounding Nate's death. Worse still, a second member of the company turns up dead soon after. Solving this mystery will take Lowe and Le Breton from from England to the Netherlands, and into a conspiracy decades in the making.

The first Lowe and Le Breton mystery was an absolute delight, even for viewers unaware of its heavy Dad's Army inspiration. Laced with references that will register whether you're a Brit of a certain age or an American raised on late-night PBS programming, Death at the Playhouses broadens the world of Lowe and Le Breton even further. The two have grown beyond their inspirations, already becoming two of the great amateur sleuths of the 21st century (and, in a way, the 20th). Two books is not enough for this pair. While Lowe and Le Breton themselves might fancy fewer brushes with death, readers will absolutely want more.

LOVE AT SECOND SIGHT
by F.T. Lukens
Available April 29

Cam is a run-of-the-mill human living in a world inhabited by paranormal beings. His best friend Al is a witch, his crush Mateo is a werewolf, but he's content to be "normal." But all that changes when, during an altercation in the school hallway, Cam sees a flash of the future: a girl he's never seen before, covered in blood. All signs point to Cam being a clairvoyant: a very rare, very esteemed sort of psychic. Now he's the talk of every paranormal alliance in town; but all he wants is to help the stranger in his vision.

With the help of Al, Mateo, the sprite Reece, and the (very human) paranormal influencer Gemma, Cam sets out to navigate his two biggest problems. One, find the future murder victim and hopefully alter her fate. Two, navigate paranormal politics as sprites, witches, and fellow psychics vie for access to his powers. But as he approaches the truth, he begins to unveil uncomfortable knowledge much closer to home.

Despite the title, Love at Second Sight is a mystery first, romance second; if you're here for wall-to-wall smooching, this is not the book for you. As a touch-sensitive psychic, Cam can't even hold hands with his crush for quite a while. The overarching plot has shades of X-Men, albeit with a fantasy bent, as Cam learns to embrace his uniqueness in the face of family who aren't eager to have an "abnormal" son. The ending is somehow simultaneously predictable and rushed: even amidst a sea of red herrings, readers will chase down the answer long before Cam does. But a somewhat hurried and predictable ending doesn't make the rest of the book any less of an enthralling read.

Otaku USA Summer 2025 Issue Now on Sale!

 

It's that time again: time for a new issue of Otaku USA magazine! Big thanks to everyone who keeps picking up and reading these issues. It's a lot of fun being part of this mag, and I love the opportunity to talk at length about both new and classic series.
This particular issue was a very busy one for me, with six separate columns! So if you're an enjoyer of me writing about anime a whole lot, this will be one to grab.


First up is my review of Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective. Between the memes about "what if House was an anime girl" and my own work as a writing advisor for medical school applicants, this was an interesting watch. All that said, I consider this an absolutely fab show... and one that does something that even my beloved House didn't always manage.


Also up for review is the new adaptation of Ranma 1/2. I am, in fact, a big fan of classic series getting reboots (see Yaiba on the cover!). And considering the original series was one of my first anime, I wanted to get in there and give my thoughts on this latest version. Spoiler: I liked it and it's good.


On to features, of which I penned three. Headhunted to Another World: From Salaryman to Big Four!  is indeed another isekai offering, but I kind of loved this. Like Magilumiere before it, this takes a relatively standardized genre and stretches it to tell a story about the importance of unique skill sets. I always love a show where people whose skills aren't flashy or "cool" get a chance to shine.


On the other end of the spectrum is my review of season 2 of Shangri-La Frontier. Or, as Paul Chapman rightly calls it, "The Adventures of John Darksouls Who Is Good at Video Games." Calling it an isekai misses the entire point, even if you could call it one on a technicality. This is a monumentally great series about the hobby of gaming—possibly one of the strongest anime made on that front so far. And any opportunity to talk about it from that angle is an opportunity I shall take.


Finally, at least in features, I cover TASOKARE HOTEL. This is one of my recent pet anime, based on a mystery/room escape mobile game. The game itself was Very Okay, with a lot of the Okay-ness being down to a messy localization. But I'm thrilled that the anime has turned out as it did, and fascinated with the choices made to turn an interactive experience into a compelling TV series.


Last but not least, I've invaded a new section for me: games! I offered my thoughts on the demo of Genso Manège, a newly-localized otome visual novel. Between the art and the story, this was absolute catnip for me. So I'm glad to have given it a boost to our audience!
The new issue is on newsstands now. If your local magazine seller doesn't stock it, you can order a copy from the website. You'll also find daily news and features there, including regular reviews and articles from yours truly! As always, thanks so much for your support—and keep spreading the word!

COMIC REVIEW: The Savage Sword of Conan, Vol. 1

 

How much do you know about Conan the Barbarian? The name? The loincloth? Next to nothing? Frankly it doesn't matter. Because The Savage Sword of Conan from Titan Comics is more than just a cool collection of classic action/adventure. It's an excellent first step into Robert E. Howard's legendary character.

This first collected volume compiles the first three issues of the new The Savage Sword of Conan comic, plus bonus materials including pinups, poetry, prose, essays, and more.

The three issues themselves are fantastic. John Arcudi's Conan and the Dragon Horde is a great kickoff, with Conan serving as a general on a quest for promised riches. Also along for the ride is the beautiful engineer Ineah, whose siege engines are shockingly perfect for the "unexpected" beasts the army faces. Max von Fafner's art is largely lovely, but his faces occasionally get uncanny in that sort of Modern Western Comics way.

Conan: Leaving the Garden was (to my mind) the most solid of the issues, depicting the Cimmerian digging himself out of a field used to harvest souls for consumption. Richard Pace's rough-hewn art is a surprisingly strong match for Jim Zub's unforgiving narrative, in which Conan must decide whether to honor an oath or eradicate a harmful village.

Frank Tieri's Conan: Wolves of the Tundra asks and answers a simple question: what if Conan became a werewolf? The self-contained story unfolds with bold art from Cary Nord: stunning action leading up to a humorous conclusion. The book ends with Alan Quah's wordless Conan: Lure of the Pit Creature, an inventive action piece.

But Conan isn't the only hero in this book. As with older Conan volumes, Solomon Kane gets space alongside Howard's better-known character. Patch Zircher writes and draws the three-part Master of the Hunt, in which Kane pursues the Wild Hunt and finds his faith shaken every step of the way. As excellent as these new Conan installments are, this three-part story feels like the best of the bunch in both writing and art.

The Savage Sword of Conan isn't just comics, though. This volume also includes two poems and a short story, Zub's "Sacrifice in the Sand," each coupled with new artwork. Pop culture scholar Jeffrey Shanks weighs in with "Men Shall Die for This," an essay on the history and cultural influence of Solomon Kane. And, of course, Titan Comics fills the back pages with alternate covers for avid collectors.

As a longstanding sword-and-sorcery fan, I had no doubt that The Savage Sword of Conan would click for me. But I was pleasantly surprised by just how much context and additional material there was, both for avid readers and newcomers alike. If you know Conan, you will love this book; if you don't know Conan, you will by the time you're through.

The Savage Sword of Conan Vol. 1 is now available from Titan Comics.