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The Library of Fates
When its librarian keeper mysteriously dies, two former classmates must race to locate a rare book from their college years that can foretell your future if you confess a secret from your past—but someone is intent on protecting what’s hidden inside.
It can write the story of your future... and hide the secrets of your past
The Library of Fates was designed to show you who you are—and who you could become. Its rarest book, The Book of Dark Nights, holds a when you write an intimate confession on its pages, you'll receive a prediction for your future, penned in your own handwriting.
For Eleanor, whose childhood was defined by a senseless tragedy, the library offers a world where everything makes sense. She’s spent most of her life there as an apprentice to the brilliant librarian, showing other people how to find the meaning of their lives in stories.
But when her mentor dies in a freak accident and The Book of Dark Nights goes missing—along with the secrets written inside—Eleanor is pulled out of the library and into a quest to locate it with the last person she the librarian’s estranged son, Daniel, who Eleanor once loved.
Together, as they hunt down clues from Harvard to Paris, Eleanor and Daniel grow closer again, regaining each other’s trust. But little do they know that they’re entangled in a much larger web. Someone else wants the book, and they'll go to dark lengths to get it...
It can write the story of your future... and hide the secrets of your past
The Library of Fates was designed to show you who you are—and who you could become. Its rarest book, The Book of Dark Nights, holds a when you write an intimate confession on its pages, you'll receive a prediction for your future, penned in your own handwriting.
For Eleanor, whose childhood was defined by a senseless tragedy, the library offers a world where everything makes sense. She’s spent most of her life there as an apprentice to the brilliant librarian, showing other people how to find the meaning of their lives in stories.
But when her mentor dies in a freak accident and The Book of Dark Nights goes missing—along with the secrets written inside—Eleanor is pulled out of the library and into a quest to locate it with the last person she the librarian’s estranged son, Daniel, who Eleanor once loved.
Together, as they hunt down clues from Harvard to Paris, Eleanor and Daniel grow closer again, regaining each other’s trust. But little do they know that they’re entangled in a much larger web. Someone else wants the book, and they'll go to dark lengths to get it...
Audible Audio
First published December 2, 2025
117 people are currently reading
20036 people want to read
About the author
Margot Harrison
7 books278 followersMargot Harrison was raised in the wilds of New York by lovely, nonviolent parents who somehow never managed to prevent her from staying up late to read scary books. She now works at an alt-weekly newspaper in Vermont, where her favorite part of the job is, of course, reviewing scary books and movies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews
December 2, 2025
Okay, so I really liked this one! Let’s start with the most important detail: it’s set in a LIBRARY that might be magical, mysterious, low-key unsettling, and honestly? I’d move in tomorrow if they’d let me. You know I’m a sucker for stories about books and this one literally builds its whole concept around them, so I was immediately intrigued.
It’s such an interesting blend of genres fantasy, a touch of mystery, definite speculative vibes, and a slowburn romance that sneaks up on you. At times I wasn’t sure exactly what box to put this book into, but honestly that worked for me. It felt kind of unique and unexpected, like I wasn’t reading something formulaic.
The whole idea of a library that can give you the book you need? I LOVE THAT. Books that heal, reveal, or unravel fate? Yes. Inject it directly into my veins. There are definitely deeper themes at play too like how stories shape us, what we choose to hide or reveal, and second chances. I wasn’t expecting that emotional angle and I was pleasantly surprised.
The pacing is definitely on the slower side at times, but I never got bored. It had this soft, nostalgic energy with little eerie undercurrents, and it kept pulling me back in. I liked the dual POV and dual timeline structure and thought it brought a thoughtful depth to the story.
If you enjoy books about books, magical realism, a little mystery, and a quiet but meaningful second-chance romance, I’d absolutely recommend this one. It’s not flashy it’s more subtle and quietly beautiful but by the end, it made me feel things I wasn’t expecting.
And yes… I would 100% like to be assigned a book by this library, preferably immediately.
Audiobook note: I listened to part of this on audio and the narrator did an excellent job. Each voice felt distinct, and it was genuinely a pleasure to listen it really elevated the experience. Thanks to Harlequin audio and Harlequin trade publishing for the gifted ALC And ARC.
It’s such an interesting blend of genres fantasy, a touch of mystery, definite speculative vibes, and a slowburn romance that sneaks up on you. At times I wasn’t sure exactly what box to put this book into, but honestly that worked for me. It felt kind of unique and unexpected, like I wasn’t reading something formulaic.
The whole idea of a library that can give you the book you need? I LOVE THAT. Books that heal, reveal, or unravel fate? Yes. Inject it directly into my veins. There are definitely deeper themes at play too like how stories shape us, what we choose to hide or reveal, and second chances. I wasn’t expecting that emotional angle and I was pleasantly surprised.
The pacing is definitely on the slower side at times, but I never got bored. It had this soft, nostalgic energy with little eerie undercurrents, and it kept pulling me back in. I liked the dual POV and dual timeline structure and thought it brought a thoughtful depth to the story.
If you enjoy books about books, magical realism, a little mystery, and a quiet but meaningful second-chance romance, I’d absolutely recommend this one. It’s not flashy it’s more subtle and quietly beautiful but by the end, it made me feel things I wasn’t expecting.
And yes… I would 100% like to be assigned a book by this library, preferably immediately.
Audiobook note: I listened to part of this on audio and the narrator did an excellent job. Each voice felt distinct, and it was genuinely a pleasure to listen it really elevated the experience. Thanks to Harlequin audio and Harlequin trade publishing for the gifted ALC And ARC.
November 21, 2025
Contemporary fantasy meets a dark academia tinged magical mystery with a side of romance!
The Library of Fates follows two college students studying in a magical library that can read your fate and offer predictions. One is the son of the librarian and the other is the girl being groomed as her replacement. Decades later they meet again when his mother dies, but he has no memory of her despite a romantic entanglement. And in order to claim his inheritance, he must find the missing magical book that powers the library. But everything is not as it seems, and the library has a dark side...
This was an engaging and very quick read with complicated characters and a satisfying mystery that explores the push and pull between fate and free will, and what happens when you try to mess with it. Because there are always consequences to power. The audio narration is done well. I received an audio review copy of this book via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.
The Library of Fates follows two college students studying in a magical library that can read your fate and offer predictions. One is the son of the librarian and the other is the girl being groomed as her replacement. Decades later they meet again when his mother dies, but he has no memory of her despite a romantic entanglement. And in order to claim his inheritance, he must find the missing magical book that powers the library. But everything is not as it seems, and the library has a dark side...
This was an engaging and very quick read with complicated characters and a satisfying mystery that explores the push and pull between fate and free will, and what happens when you try to mess with it. Because there are always consequences to power. The audio narration is done well. I received an audio review copy of this book via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.
December 19, 2025
„She was old enough now to grasp that love exists in the moment-to-moment-the flash of eyes meeting, the warmth of hands clasping, the elusive understanding between two people. One can try to trap and imprison it, to forge an eternal bond, but there are no guarantees.“
📖 book about books
📖 protagonists in their 40s
📖 memory loss
📖 confession devouring book
📖 dual timeline
What I liked:
- The concept of the story: A librarian dies under mysterious circumstances and a magical book goes missing. It’s the unique and dangerous book known as The Book of Dark Nights. In it people record their deepest confessions and the book has the power to reveal glimpses of their future as an exchange. It can also guide readers to the exact book they need in the library, one that reflects whatever they are facing in their lives.
- The ending had a great twist and was my favorite part of the book. Characters I thought would only play a small part were suddenly involved and the pacing really picked up!
What I didn’t like:
- The constant switching from one timeline to the other after every chapter was a bit too much. I felt especially interrupted in the current timeline. A few chapters set in the past would have been sufficient, and the mystery of what happened could have unraveled during the recent timeline as well.
- The characters felt a bit distant, especially the protagonist, who had no character traits or interests beyond the library. Maybe that was intentional and meant to add to the mystery but it made her feel unapproachable and I couldn’t build a connection.
Writing style: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Worldbuilding: 4/5
Story & Plot: 4/5
Vibes: 3/5
Will I buy a physical copy: I don’t think so
Will I read more books by the author: maybe
📖 book about books
📖 protagonists in their 40s
📖 memory loss
📖 confession devouring book
📖 dual timeline
What I liked:
- The concept of the story: A librarian dies under mysterious circumstances and a magical book goes missing. It’s the unique and dangerous book known as The Book of Dark Nights. In it people record their deepest confessions and the book has the power to reveal glimpses of their future as an exchange. It can also guide readers to the exact book they need in the library, one that reflects whatever they are facing in their lives.
- The ending had a great twist and was my favorite part of the book. Characters I thought would only play a small part were suddenly involved and the pacing really picked up!
What I didn’t like:
- The constant switching from one timeline to the other after every chapter was a bit too much. I felt especially interrupted in the current timeline. A few chapters set in the past would have been sufficient, and the mystery of what happened could have unraveled during the recent timeline as well.
- The characters felt a bit distant, especially the protagonist, who had no character traits or interests beyond the library. Maybe that was intentional and meant to add to the mystery but it made her feel unapproachable and I couldn’t build a connection.
Writing style: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Worldbuilding: 4/5
Story & Plot: 4/5
Vibes: 3/5
Will I buy a physical copy: I don’t think so
Will I read more books by the author: maybe
September 27, 2025
⋆｡°✩ 𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 ⋆｡°✩
4.25 stars | a contemporary magical realism mixed with books and second-chance romance | 1.5/3 spice, 1/3 violence, profanity, trigger warnings such as perceived su!c!de, mental health issues, and substance use | unique plot and progression, interesting ideas, and a pleasing element of fantastical and historical mystery
*:･ﾟ✧♡ 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤 *:･ﾟ✧♡
As I feel I’ve been saying a lot recently, this book surprised me!
First, in the mystery element; I loved it! The fantasy, history, and mystery all mixed together were so cool and fun to read!
The Library of Fates and general Magic system were also soooooo cool; like a librarian that gives you the book you need?? I want to be that.
Plus the dark murder-y twist was actually really cool; unexpected, but appreciated.
And just like, in general I really liked this book! Eleanor was definitely my favorite, with Daniel in a close second; the second chance subplot was also really interesting, and with the other element of that second chance that I won’t say because of spoilers; their romance was so cute.
‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𝕕𝕚𝕤𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤 ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.
I think the characters relationships in this book were sort of weird; like, I don’t know how to explain it, but they were I guess unfulfilling??? Same with the characters in general; I just didn’t feel very attached to them. I wasn’t particularly rooting for things to go their way; for any of the characters, which—with characters being a pretty important aspect of a book—brought The Library Of Fates to a 4.25.
* ੈ✩‧₊˚ 𝕨𝕣𝕒𝕡-𝕦𝕡 * ੈ✩‧₊˚
Overall, this was a fun, quick read that I enjoyed a lot! I’d recommend The Library Of Fates for anyone looking for a lighthearted mystery book or some contemporary magical realism.
⋆˚⚡︎˖° 𝕣𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕖 ⋆˚⚡︎˖°
The Library of Fates releases December 2, 2025!!!
˙⋆.˚𐙚 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 ˙⋆.˚𐙚
Thank you so much to the publisher, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and to NetGalley for giving me a free e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
All thoughts are my own :D
now playing:
» suburban legends «
1:24 ──〇──── 3:22
⇄ ◃◃ ⅠⅠ ▹▹ ↻
4.25 stars | a contemporary magical realism mixed with books and second-chance romance | 1.5/3 spice, 1/3 violence, profanity, trigger warnings such as perceived su!c!de, mental health issues, and substance use | unique plot and progression, interesting ideas, and a pleasing element of fantastical and historical mystery
*:･ﾟ✧♡ 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤 *:･ﾟ✧♡
As I feel I’ve been saying a lot recently, this book surprised me!
First, in the mystery element; I loved it! The fantasy, history, and mystery all mixed together were so cool and fun to read!
The Library of Fates and general Magic system were also soooooo cool; like a librarian that gives you the book you need?? I want to be that.
Plus the dark murder-y twist was actually really cool; unexpected, but appreciated.
And just like, in general I really liked this book! Eleanor was definitely my favorite, with Daniel in a close second; the second chance subplot was also really interesting, and with the other element of that second chance that I won’t say because of spoilers; their romance was so cute.
‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚. 𝕕𝕚𝕤𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤 ‧₊˚❀༉‧₊˚.
I think the characters relationships in this book were sort of weird; like, I don’t know how to explain it, but they were I guess unfulfilling??? Same with the characters in general; I just didn’t feel very attached to them. I wasn’t particularly rooting for things to go their way; for any of the characters, which—with characters being a pretty important aspect of a book—brought The Library Of Fates to a 4.25.
* ੈ✩‧₊˚ 𝕨𝕣𝕒𝕡-𝕦𝕡 * ੈ✩‧₊˚
Overall, this was a fun, quick read that I enjoyed a lot! I’d recommend The Library Of Fates for anyone looking for a lighthearted mystery book or some contemporary magical realism.
⋆˚⚡︎˖° 𝕣𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕖 ⋆˚⚡︎˖°
The Library of Fates releases December 2, 2025!!!
˙⋆.˚𐙚 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕 ˙⋆.˚𐙚
Thank you so much to the publisher, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and to NetGalley for giving me a free e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!
All thoughts are my own :D
now playing:
» suburban legends «
1:24 ──〇──── 3:22
⇄ ◃◃ ⅠⅠ ▹▹ ↻
December 3, 2025
Thank you so much, NetGalley, for providing me with an advanced copy of this book.
The story is set in a magical library where books are used to determine people’s fates. It’s a simple story, not filled with the kind of action that ends the world, but rather a subtle mystery that unfolds when a book goes missing after the current librarian passes away. The librarian’s apprentice and son embark on a quest to uncover the secrets behind the disappearance.
I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere of the book. The characters were well-developed, and I couldn’t help but imagine myself visiting that cozy, simple library. Sometimes, I need a break from reading lengthy book series, and this book provided just the right amount of relaxation and a refreshing change of pace.
The story is set in a magical library where books are used to determine people’s fates. It’s a simple story, not filled with the kind of action that ends the world, but rather a subtle mystery that unfolds when a book goes missing after the current librarian passes away. The librarian’s apprentice and son embark on a quest to uncover the secrets behind the disappearance.
I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere of the book. The characters were well-developed, and I couldn’t help but imagine myself visiting that cozy, simple library. Sometimes, I need a break from reading lengthy book series, and this book provided just the right amount of relaxation and a refreshing change of pace.
November 17, 2025
4 stars!
Omg. The magical realism of this book was superb! I loved the library adventure and having to figure out the mystery based on clues !
I couldn't stop listening to this. The narrators did a great job of the different voices without making it confusing, the emotion depicted was deep and you could feel it in their voices.
Excellent narration, and fantastic writing.
I am very picky with the books I use in annotation circles, this would be one I would need my groups opinion on!!!!
Cannot wait to get the physical when it comes out.
Omg. The magical realism of this book was superb! I loved the library adventure and having to figure out the mystery based on clues !
I couldn't stop listening to this. The narrators did a great job of the different voices without making it confusing, the emotion depicted was deep and you could feel it in their voices.
Excellent narration, and fantastic writing.
I am very picky with the books I use in annotation circles, this would be one I would need my groups opinion on!!!!
Cannot wait to get the physical when it comes out.
January 28, 2026
3⭐️
My parents say I was between 24-36mo when I started reading anything independently. That means I’ve been reading for about 48 years now. And all that time reading has taught me that an Ivy League education does not a writer make.
While I do find it accessible and engaging, my overall response to this book has to be labeled disappointment. I had such high hopes, from the author to the blurb to the advance reviews. I do still think the concept has merit and could have been developed into a compelling, well-rounded novel. Malheuresement, whether due to an overly restrained editor or some other combination of factors, the book ends up failing to deliver on character depth, plot development and overall polish. There are even a few chapters with outright conflicts in retelling.
For readers who like DaVinci Code-type adventure combined with light fantasy and romance, this could work well. If you are seeking literary fiction, I’d suggest a pass.
I borrowed this book from my public library. There’s something for almost everyone at the local library, whether you’re a parent who needs literacy support for your preschooler, an immigrant working on language skills or bureaucratic forms, a mystery fan in search of the latest whodunit by a favorite author, or someone experiencing homelessness who needs assistance with social services or access to a computer and the Internet. Please support your local library! 📚
My parents say I was between 24-36mo when I started reading anything independently. That means I’ve been reading for about 48 years now. And all that time reading has taught me that an Ivy League education does not a writer make.
While I do find it accessible and engaging, my overall response to this book has to be labeled disappointment. I had such high hopes, from the author to the blurb to the advance reviews. I do still think the concept has merit and could have been developed into a compelling, well-rounded novel. Malheuresement, whether due to an overly restrained editor or some other combination of factors, the book ends up failing to deliver on character depth, plot development and overall polish. There are even a few chapters with outright conflicts in retelling.
For readers who like DaVinci Code-type adventure combined with light fantasy and romance, this could work well. If you are seeking literary fiction, I’d suggest a pass.
I borrowed this book from my public library. There’s something for almost everyone at the local library, whether you’re a parent who needs literacy support for your preschooler, an immigrant working on language skills or bureaucratic forms, a mystery fan in search of the latest whodunit by a favorite author, or someone experiencing homelessness who needs assistance with social services or access to a computer and the Internet. Please support your local library! 📚
November 7, 2025
A paranormal thriller with a hint of second chance romance.
There was something nostalgic and magical about this story. It encompassed family drama and human motivations, confronting what drives people and what they truly care about, questioning the idea of self and the way books both shape your inner ego and are shaped by it.
🎙️: Single narration, but I honestly thought there were more narrators on it. The voice actor was talented and compelling.
Paranormal Thriller
Cozy Mystery
Second Chance, Later in Life Romance
Family & the Bonds that Tie
Who Done It Mystery
Search for a Missing Item
Dark Secrets
Hidden Pasts
❌🌶️: This is pretty clean and I wouldn’t even call it steamy.
There was something nostalgic and magical about this story. It encompassed family drama and human motivations, confronting what drives people and what they truly care about, questioning the idea of self and the way books both shape your inner ego and are shaped by it.
🎙️: Single narration, but I honestly thought there were more narrators on it. The voice actor was talented and compelling.
Paranormal Thriller
Cozy Mystery
Second Chance, Later in Life Romance
Family & the Bonds that Tie
Who Done It Mystery
Search for a Missing Item
Dark Secrets
Hidden Pasts
❌🌶️: This is pretty clean and I wouldn’t even call it steamy.
December 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced reader copy of this novel.
This is a book about books that I can see alot of people really enjoying. This is a mystery book with some magical realism and a splash of romance with a very interesting premise. Our female main character is a librarian that is able to provide her patrons with the book that they need at any given time for their optimal emotional well-being. This ability is powered by a special book contained within her library that requires confessions to recharge.
The story is told in dual timelines, which adds to the mystery, but hampered the character development for me. I feel like this is a good book to dip your toe into the mystery genre, but if you are an avid mystery reader the plot will be predictable. The romantic subplot felt under-developed despite being a pretty constant focus in both timelines. I never felt connected enough to either character to be invested in the relationship.
Unfortunately, I feel this is being marketed to the wrong crowd as a dark academia, magical realism physiological thriller. Please do not go into this expecting a thriller or dark academia because you will be very dissapointed. However, if you would like a magical realism mystery to get you started in the genre this would be a good place to start.
This is a book about books that I can see alot of people really enjoying. This is a mystery book with some magical realism and a splash of romance with a very interesting premise. Our female main character is a librarian that is able to provide her patrons with the book that they need at any given time for their optimal emotional well-being. This ability is powered by a special book contained within her library that requires confessions to recharge.
The story is told in dual timelines, which adds to the mystery, but hampered the character development for me. I feel like this is a good book to dip your toe into the mystery genre, but if you are an avid mystery reader the plot will be predictable. The romantic subplot felt under-developed despite being a pretty constant focus in both timelines. I never felt connected enough to either character to be invested in the relationship.
Unfortunately, I feel this is being marketed to the wrong crowd as a dark academia, magical realism physiological thriller. Please do not go into this expecting a thriller or dark academia because you will be very dissapointed. However, if you would like a magical realism mystery to get you started in the genre this would be a good place to start.
November 29, 2025
What a very different read!
Two timelines. Multiple people. One magical, mystical library.
Eleanor and Daniel are college students in 1995. They are taking a whimsical class that requires reading from this particular library. Strange thing is that the teacher/librarian asks each of her students to ask her to ‘get me the book that I need’… and in a crazy, fantastical way, she is able to provide them the EXACT BOOK to get them through whatever it is that they are facing in their lives right rapt that moment!! 😳
Also, early on, she asks them to all confess to the most horrible thing they have ever done… and record it in the ‘book of fates’…. This book is also able to give them insight into their futures and what lies ahead… 😮🧐🤔
As we fast forward to the CURRENT timeline, we find that the librarian had a freak accident… and the fated book has gone missing!
We progress through the book trying to find where the book is… who might’ve taken it, and WHY??
We also come to realize some things that happened in the past… that somehow just don’t make sense.
But not to worry, as all seems to come together nicely in the long run!
4 big, magical, mystical, fiery, bright stars for me!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#TheLibraryOfFates by @MargotHarrison and narrated phenomenally by @CarolineHewitt.
*** This one has NOT BEEN RELEASED YET, please look 👀 for it in a few days on 12/02/25!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HarlequinAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
Two timelines. Multiple people. One magical, mystical library.
Eleanor and Daniel are college students in 1995. They are taking a whimsical class that requires reading from this particular library. Strange thing is that the teacher/librarian asks each of her students to ask her to ‘get me the book that I need’… and in a crazy, fantastical way, she is able to provide them the EXACT BOOK to get them through whatever it is that they are facing in their lives right rapt that moment!! 😳
Also, early on, she asks them to all confess to the most horrible thing they have ever done… and record it in the ‘book of fates’…. This book is also able to give them insight into their futures and what lies ahead… 😮🧐🤔
As we fast forward to the CURRENT timeline, we find that the librarian had a freak accident… and the fated book has gone missing!
We progress through the book trying to find where the book is… who might’ve taken it, and WHY??
We also come to realize some things that happened in the past… that somehow just don’t make sense.
But not to worry, as all seems to come together nicely in the long run!
4 big, magical, mystical, fiery, bright stars for me!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#TheLibraryOfFates by @MargotHarrison and narrated phenomenally by @CarolineHewitt.
*** This one has NOT BEEN RELEASED YET, please look 👀 for it in a few days on 12/02/25!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HarlequinAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
December 29, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for an ALC and to The Hive and Graydon House for the physical copy prior to release!
The Library of Fates follows Eleanor, a librarian who works in The Library of Fates. One of the rare books, The Book of Dark Nights, will give you a prediction about your life if you confess a secret amongst its pages. When Eleanor’s mentor passes away, the book goes missing and there are clues along the way for her to find them.
This book is dual timeline, dual POV - Eleanor and her mentor’s son, Daniel. We get to see their time in college as well as the present day as they try to find the book. There was a ton of suspense throughout that had me on the edge of my seat. I loved the mini cliffhangers for each chapter as we cycled through the past and the present. The characters felt complex and really relatable. The discourse on humans writing books vs. technology writing books is particularly relevant right now and loved that conversation.
Overall, this was quite a unique book that was exactly what I was needing right now!
Caroline Hewitt did a fantastic job narrating. The accents were perfect and I loved it!!! A bit of a missed opportunity not to do dual/duet narration, but nonetheless she do a great job!
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for an ALC and to The Hive and Graydon House for the physical copy prior to release!
The Library of Fates follows Eleanor, a librarian who works in The Library of Fates. One of the rare books, The Book of Dark Nights, will give you a prediction about your life if you confess a secret amongst its pages. When Eleanor’s mentor passes away, the book goes missing and there are clues along the way for her to find them.
This book is dual timeline, dual POV - Eleanor and her mentor’s son, Daniel. We get to see their time in college as well as the present day as they try to find the book. There was a ton of suspense throughout that had me on the edge of my seat. I loved the mini cliffhangers for each chapter as we cycled through the past and the present. The characters felt complex and really relatable. The discourse on humans writing books vs. technology writing books is particularly relevant right now and loved that conversation.
Overall, this was quite a unique book that was exactly what I was needing right now!
Caroline Hewitt did a fantastic job narrating. The accents were perfect and I loved it!!! A bit of a missed opportunity not to do dual/duet narration, but nonetheless she do a great job!
December 3, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this novel.
If you love magic, books, libraries, mystery, scavenger hunts, etc, this book is for you. This book is about a magical "burn book" in which you write all your secrets, and every page reads "Let me read you". Talk about spooky goodness, right? This book is such a fun journey from beginning to end and takes the reader through so many twists and turns that will keep you gasping. Prepare to be shocked when you get to the end!!
Pick this one up, you won't regret it.
If you love magic, books, libraries, mystery, scavenger hunts, etc, this book is for you. This book is about a magical "burn book" in which you write all your secrets, and every page reads "Let me read you". Talk about spooky goodness, right? This book is such a fun journey from beginning to end and takes the reader through so many twists and turns that will keep you gasping. Prepare to be shocked when you get to the end!!
Pick this one up, you won't regret it.
December 24, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ARC of this audiobook.
This book really fell flat for me, unfortunately.
I loved the premise of it! A weird magical library that gives you the book you need, not the one you want? Love it. Everything was so slow and a little dull, unfortunately. I didn't care for the characters and didn't feel anything for them.
This book really fell flat for me, unfortunately.
I loved the premise of it! A weird magical library that gives you the book you need, not the one you want? Love it. Everything was so slow and a little dull, unfortunately. I didn't care for the characters and didn't feel anything for them.
July 12, 2025
A Hauntingly Beautiful Mystery Woven in Pages and Fate
Margot Harrison’s The Library of Fates is a spellbinding tale that blends literary mystery, emotional depth, and quiet, haunting magic into one unforgettable experience. From the very first page, I was completely captivated by its world, a library steeped in secrets, where books don’t just tell stories... they know them.
Set across two intricately woven timelines, the novel follows Eleanor, a quietly fierce and introspective young woman shaped by tragedy, and Daniel, her enigmatic former love and the estranged son of the library’s keeper. Years ago, Daniel vanished without explanation. Now he’s back, and with him comes a wave of unanswered questions and unresolved longing. Together, they must track down a missing book, one that promises to reveal your future in exchange for a personal secret.
The dynamic between Eleanor and Daniel crackles with tension and vulnerability. As they unravel the mystery at the heart of the library, their relationship shifts from wary partnership to something far more intimate and emotionally raw. Their journey is one of healing, reckoning, and rediscovery, and it’s utterly absorbing.
Harrison’s writing is elegant and atmospheric, painting the library as a character all its own. It's a place that breathes, whispers, and watches, a sanctuary and a trap all at once. This is a novel that knows how to hold you in its grip, delivering secrets with perfect pacing and letting its magic seep in quietly, deeply, until you’re fully lost in its world.
What makes The Library of Fates so powerful isn’t just the allure of magical realism, it’s the emotional resonance behind it. The magic here isn’t flashy or overwhelming; it’s subtle, soul-deep, and deeply tied to the characters’ inner lives. It explores how stories can heal, haunt, and ultimately shape who we are.
If you're drawn to books about books, if you believe in the quiet power of fate and the emotional truths buried in fiction, this novel will enchant you. For fans of introspective magical realism, secret-laced libraries, and second-chance stories that linger long after the last page, The Library of Fates is an absolute must-read.
Margot Harrison’s The Library of Fates is a spellbinding tale that blends literary mystery, emotional depth, and quiet, haunting magic into one unforgettable experience. From the very first page, I was completely captivated by its world, a library steeped in secrets, where books don’t just tell stories... they know them.
Set across two intricately woven timelines, the novel follows Eleanor, a quietly fierce and introspective young woman shaped by tragedy, and Daniel, her enigmatic former love and the estranged son of the library’s keeper. Years ago, Daniel vanished without explanation. Now he’s back, and with him comes a wave of unanswered questions and unresolved longing. Together, they must track down a missing book, one that promises to reveal your future in exchange for a personal secret.
The dynamic between Eleanor and Daniel crackles with tension and vulnerability. As they unravel the mystery at the heart of the library, their relationship shifts from wary partnership to something far more intimate and emotionally raw. Their journey is one of healing, reckoning, and rediscovery, and it’s utterly absorbing.
Harrison’s writing is elegant and atmospheric, painting the library as a character all its own. It's a place that breathes, whispers, and watches, a sanctuary and a trap all at once. This is a novel that knows how to hold you in its grip, delivering secrets with perfect pacing and letting its magic seep in quietly, deeply, until you’re fully lost in its world.
What makes The Library of Fates so powerful isn’t just the allure of magical realism, it’s the emotional resonance behind it. The magic here isn’t flashy or overwhelming; it’s subtle, soul-deep, and deeply tied to the characters’ inner lives. It explores how stories can heal, haunt, and ultimately shape who we are.
If you're drawn to books about books, if you believe in the quiet power of fate and the emotional truths buried in fiction, this novel will enchant you. For fans of introspective magical realism, secret-laced libraries, and second-chance stories that linger long after the last page, The Library of Fates is an absolute must-read.
July 12, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Library Journal for this ARC of The Library of Fates by Margot Harrison in exchange for an honest review.
A missing library book starts the story off in this magical realism, fantasy and mystery. Our main characters Eleanor and Daniel have to work together to uncover why the book went missing, and why Daniel's mother, a secretive librarian, would have hidden it in the first place.
The journey takes place over two timelines, their time at school, and the present, forcing them to re live their pasts, and reconnect in the present.
The premise of this really hooked me, but unfortunately the writing continuously drew me out of the story. The characters had the potential to be nuanced and flawed, but fell into easy tropes which made them less easy to relate to. I found myself drifting while reading this, and not in a good way. I thought the writing style was choppy and felt unfinished, and I was hoping for more chemistry between the main characters. All in all the premise shone through, but it had a hard time shining through the prose.
A missing library book starts the story off in this magical realism, fantasy and mystery. Our main characters Eleanor and Daniel have to work together to uncover why the book went missing, and why Daniel's mother, a secretive librarian, would have hidden it in the first place.
The journey takes place over two timelines, their time at school, and the present, forcing them to re live their pasts, and reconnect in the present.
The premise of this really hooked me, but unfortunately the writing continuously drew me out of the story. The characters had the potential to be nuanced and flawed, but fell into easy tropes which made them less easy to relate to. I found myself drifting while reading this, and not in a good way. I thought the writing style was choppy and felt unfinished, and I was hoping for more chemistry between the main characters. All in all the premise shone through, but it had a hard time shining through the prose.
December 3, 2025
The Library of Fates is one of those books that fits a mix of genres. It is part fantasy, mystery and even has a bit of romance. As the title say, much of the book is set in The Library of Fates. The librarian is able to select a book to help the reader deal with a quandary or move them forward in their lives. There is one book in the library that is kept under lock and key, it is The Book of Dark Nights. When you write a confession on its pages, close the book, and reopen it, you will see a predction for your future. No on else is able to read your secret and response but you. The problem is after you write in the book, things don't always go the way you planned. Eleanor is a student who is able to pick books for her fellow students. She falls in love with Daniel, the librarian's son. He doesn't have the power, so when Odelia realizes that she needs someone to take over when she eventually dies, Eleanor becomes her apprentice. When Odelia dies mysteriously and The Book of Dark Nights disappears, Eleanor and Daniel have to follow clues and figure out where the book has been hidden. During this hunt, they eventually find out what really happened to Odelia.
I don't read a lot of fantasy, but this book intrigued me. I do enjoy books about books, and with a library setting, I was ready to dip into this one. It wasn't so much fantasy as a story with a magical or mystical item. This was a slower story with a dual timeline from university days to the present. There were also several characters that played a role, but weren't in the story much, so it was important to keep track of several storylines. Having said that, I was able to follow the story with no problem. The mystery is in the present storyline that takes place at least 18 years after the group wrote their confessions in the book. I couldn't figure out why Daniel didn't remember Eleanor in the present after their close relationship in college, but we eventually find out the answer. As we get closer to the end of the story, it picks up as the mystery gets resolved. I didn't expect that ending at all, but it was a good one. I liked that Eleanor and Daniel eventually rekindle their relationship, and what happens to the library at the end. Overall an enjoyable read and listen the audiobook was nicely narrated by Caroline Hewitt. She gave distinctive voices to most of the characters and her voice was nice to listen to. I recommend The Library of Fates to those who enjoy books about books, and books with a mash up of genres, in whichever format you prefer.
I don't read a lot of fantasy, but this book intrigued me. I do enjoy books about books, and with a library setting, I was ready to dip into this one. It wasn't so much fantasy as a story with a magical or mystical item. This was a slower story with a dual timeline from university days to the present. There were also several characters that played a role, but weren't in the story much, so it was important to keep track of several storylines. Having said that, I was able to follow the story with no problem. The mystery is in the present storyline that takes place at least 18 years after the group wrote their confessions in the book. I couldn't figure out why Daniel didn't remember Eleanor in the present after their close relationship in college, but we eventually find out the answer. As we get closer to the end of the story, it picks up as the mystery gets resolved. I didn't expect that ending at all, but it was a good one. I liked that Eleanor and Daniel eventually rekindle their relationship, and what happens to the library at the end. Overall an enjoyable read and listen the audiobook was nicely narrated by Caroline Hewitt. She gave distinctive voices to most of the characters and her voice was nice to listen to. I recommend The Library of Fates to those who enjoy books about books, and books with a mash up of genres, in whichever format you prefer.
Read
November 25, 2025Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy
The Library of Fates by Margot Harrison is a third person dual-POV dual-timeline contemporary romantic speculative. Eleanor has spent most of her life in the Library of Fates, learning how to take care of it in the future. Daniel, the son of the same librarian training Eleanor, returns when his mother is found dead. But Eleanor and Daniel are not strangers; they once loved each other and all those feelings start to come back as they spend time together again.
This is a real genre blender and I struggled to categorize it. I almost picked ‘dark academia’ because it is set in Harvard and deals a lot with classics and education, but I’m not sure it hits enough of the points to count. The pacing didn’t feel very thriller-y to me, but I can certainly see the argument that it is a mystery. Because of the role the romance arc plays in the plot, I would call it a romantic contemporary speculative. While it does feel hard to categorize, readers who want a lot of genres mixed together should be very pleased.
Daniel and Eleanor’s relationship is more on the slowburn side, I would say. They do not immediately get back together and it takes a while for them to really sort out their feelings to even try something again. As there are magical reasons for this, it does make sense why they are being kept apart by the Book that the Library of Fates is protecting.
I would recommend this to fans of classic literature who like contemporary fantasy and readers of romantic fantasy who like a mystery element
The Library of Fates by Margot Harrison is a third person dual-POV dual-timeline contemporary romantic speculative. Eleanor has spent most of her life in the Library of Fates, learning how to take care of it in the future. Daniel, the son of the same librarian training Eleanor, returns when his mother is found dead. But Eleanor and Daniel are not strangers; they once loved each other and all those feelings start to come back as they spend time together again.
This is a real genre blender and I struggled to categorize it. I almost picked ‘dark academia’ because it is set in Harvard and deals a lot with classics and education, but I’m not sure it hits enough of the points to count. The pacing didn’t feel very thriller-y to me, but I can certainly see the argument that it is a mystery. Because of the role the romance arc plays in the plot, I would call it a romantic contemporary speculative. While it does feel hard to categorize, readers who want a lot of genres mixed together should be very pleased.
Daniel and Eleanor’s relationship is more on the slowburn side, I would say. They do not immediately get back together and it takes a while for them to really sort out their feelings to even try something again. As there are magical reasons for this, it does make sense why they are being kept apart by the Book that the Library of Fates is protecting.
I would recommend this to fans of classic literature who like contemporary fantasy and readers of romantic fantasy who like a mystery element
November 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for providing me with an ARC of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I can’t resist a good book involving a library and books. So when this fantasy came across my radar, it sounded like it would be a great read for me. It has a lot of elements that I like in fantasy—bookish characters, dark academia, and magical books. The fact that there is a mystery within the story was only a greater draw.
Caroline Hewitt did a fantastic job as the narrator for this book. Her voice made it simple to compulsively listen to this story with her clear speech and pleasant-sounding voice. She came across as especially convincing when narrating the past timeline, sounding like a college student. Additionally, there are multiple characters with French accents which she pulls off beautifully, and has no problem pronouncing words in French (which I can’t manage at all, so it always seems impressive).
The story is told in dual timelines, one from 1995 when they were in college, and the other in 2019, and almost all of the characters are the same. Growing up in a library, it was natural for Eleanor to gravitate towards Odile as a mentor in the library. However, what wasn’t common was that the library had a book kept by Odile where students were encouraged to confess a secret and in turn receive a prediction for your future. Eleanor becomes involved with the other students, and develops a relationship with Daniel, Odile’s son. In the later timeline, Odile has died under suspicious circumstances and The Book of Dark Nights has gone missing, pushing Eleanor and Daniel together to find the book.
I really liked the way that Eleanor and Daniel interacted. In the earlier timeline we see their connection grow from being classmates to being in love, and it felt similar to the way that college romances grew through proximity in classes and become serious and intense quickly, yet the romance didn’t quite come through. In 2019, they are no longer together and Daniel moved back to France after college, but we don’t know why. The relationship between Odile and Daniel felt kind of distant, but I don’t know much about French culture and how parent-child relationships were characterized in 1995, so this might be just the way these two connect. Odile did come across as more nurturing towards Eleanor, so the mentor relationship felt much more connected than Odile did towards her own son.
Unfortunately, the characters also came across as somewhat flat. The world building involved in this story is outstanding, but it feels like it came at the expense of character development. Even the main characters can be summed up in just a few words, which is disappointing when this story really called for some characters who were more complex. The pacing was a little uneven, but the story kept my attention and the pacing wasn’t as important to my enjoyment of the story as the plot. In my opinion, the romance did feel a little lukewarm, almost as if a romance was shoehorned into the story when a close friendship could have worked as well.
Overall, this was a read that I enjoyed quite a bit. The secret society, the book, and the mystery of what happened to Odile and the missing book kept me hooked on reading, and it was so convenient to have the audiobook version so I could listen to it anytime, anywhere. The world building was outstanding, and I loved learning more about this world and what happened in both timelines, which were equally intriguing to me. There are themes in the story of free will and predetermined destiny through the idea of the book and the highly accurate predictions that are fed back to the confessors, although it felt as though the themes weren’t explored as fully as I would have liked. There was a lot of room in this story for growth, but this is an author that I will definitely continue to read.
I can’t resist a good book involving a library and books. So when this fantasy came across my radar, it sounded like it would be a great read for me. It has a lot of elements that I like in fantasy—bookish characters, dark academia, and magical books. The fact that there is a mystery within the story was only a greater draw.
Caroline Hewitt did a fantastic job as the narrator for this book. Her voice made it simple to compulsively listen to this story with her clear speech and pleasant-sounding voice. She came across as especially convincing when narrating the past timeline, sounding like a college student. Additionally, there are multiple characters with French accents which she pulls off beautifully, and has no problem pronouncing words in French (which I can’t manage at all, so it always seems impressive).
The story is told in dual timelines, one from 1995 when they were in college, and the other in 2019, and almost all of the characters are the same. Growing up in a library, it was natural for Eleanor to gravitate towards Odile as a mentor in the library. However, what wasn’t common was that the library had a book kept by Odile where students were encouraged to confess a secret and in turn receive a prediction for your future. Eleanor becomes involved with the other students, and develops a relationship with Daniel, Odile’s son. In the later timeline, Odile has died under suspicious circumstances and The Book of Dark Nights has gone missing, pushing Eleanor and Daniel together to find the book.
I really liked the way that Eleanor and Daniel interacted. In the earlier timeline we see their connection grow from being classmates to being in love, and it felt similar to the way that college romances grew through proximity in classes and become serious and intense quickly, yet the romance didn’t quite come through. In 2019, they are no longer together and Daniel moved back to France after college, but we don’t know why. The relationship between Odile and Daniel felt kind of distant, but I don’t know much about French culture and how parent-child relationships were characterized in 1995, so this might be just the way these two connect. Odile did come across as more nurturing towards Eleanor, so the mentor relationship felt much more connected than Odile did towards her own son.
Unfortunately, the characters also came across as somewhat flat. The world building involved in this story is outstanding, but it feels like it came at the expense of character development. Even the main characters can be summed up in just a few words, which is disappointing when this story really called for some characters who were more complex. The pacing was a little uneven, but the story kept my attention and the pacing wasn’t as important to my enjoyment of the story as the plot. In my opinion, the romance did feel a little lukewarm, almost as if a romance was shoehorned into the story when a close friendship could have worked as well.
Overall, this was a read that I enjoyed quite a bit. The secret society, the book, and the mystery of what happened to Odile and the missing book kept me hooked on reading, and it was so convenient to have the audiobook version so I could listen to it anytime, anywhere. The world building was outstanding, and I loved learning more about this world and what happened in both timelines, which were equally intriguing to me. There are themes in the story of free will and predetermined destiny through the idea of the book and the highly accurate predictions that are fed back to the confessors, although it felt as though the themes weren’t explored as fully as I would have liked. There was a lot of room in this story for growth, but this is an author that I will definitely continue to read.
November 24, 2025
✨Audiobook Review✨
This book did not go at all how I expected it to go. It read like a thriller with fantasy elements like magic and witchcraft. A magical book that takes your honest confession and spits out a prediction afterwards… oh and a heavy dose of nightmares for the rest of your life, no big deal, right?
Eleanor has often felt meek and inadequate but when she finally discovers something special about her she can’t let it go. Unfortunately, she also can’t accept who she is and any relationship either. Now she is racing to find the one thing that made her feel special, and it is in a collision course with the one man who truly saw her.
Daniel has no memory of Eleanor. What he does have is bills and a daughter. So when his mother dies suddenly he is heartbroken but also hit with a surprise in order to obtain his inheritance. Now he is on an adventure across the world with a woman he doesn’t know but feels like he should.
I enjoyed the concept of the magical book and how it can just as easily be used for good or for evil. The twists were unexpected and the end especially left me reeling. Although this isn’t normally my type of book, I was fascinated with the writing and the storyline.
The narrator did an amazing job of keeping the voices, accents, and different inflections consistent with each character. She did a great job conveying the emotions and using tone and cadence to really get the story across.
This book did not go at all how I expected it to go. It read like a thriller with fantasy elements like magic and witchcraft. A magical book that takes your honest confession and spits out a prediction afterwards… oh and a heavy dose of nightmares for the rest of your life, no big deal, right?
Eleanor has often felt meek and inadequate but when she finally discovers something special about her she can’t let it go. Unfortunately, she also can’t accept who she is and any relationship either. Now she is racing to find the one thing that made her feel special, and it is in a collision course with the one man who truly saw her.
Daniel has no memory of Eleanor. What he does have is bills and a daughter. So when his mother dies suddenly he is heartbroken but also hit with a surprise in order to obtain his inheritance. Now he is on an adventure across the world with a woman he doesn’t know but feels like he should.
I enjoyed the concept of the magical book and how it can just as easily be used for good or for evil. The twists were unexpected and the end especially left me reeling. Although this isn’t normally my type of book, I was fascinated with the writing and the storyline.
The narrator did an amazing job of keeping the voices, accents, and different inflections consistent with each character. She did a great job conveying the emotions and using tone and cadence to really get the story across.
January 13, 2026
3.5 Stars Rounded Up
December 15, 2025
The Library of Fates contains a magical book that can predict your future if you give it a dark secret from your past.
This was such a great mix of magical realism, mystery, and a little second chance romance. The library is full of secrets and with multiple mysteries to unravel, I couldn’t get enough of this story. There’s a lot of layers to it with emotional moments that made my heart ache. Caroline Hewitt’s narration is incredible - warm and peaceful while also bringing everything to life. I highly recommend if you like magical realism, academia, or books about books and libraries.
Thank you HTP Books for the ARC and ALC
This was such a great mix of magical realism, mystery, and a little second chance romance. The library is full of secrets and with multiple mysteries to unravel, I couldn’t get enough of this story. There’s a lot of layers to it with emotional moments that made my heart ache. Caroline Hewitt’s narration is incredible - warm and peaceful while also bringing everything to life. I highly recommend if you like magical realism, academia, or books about books and libraries.
Thank you HTP Books for the ARC and ALC
November 29, 2025
The Library of Fates is what I thought I was getting with The Book of Doors. Instead that ended up being much more violent and gruesome than I anticipated. Margot Harrison's story of a magical book is more dark academia and much less blood & guts. Thankfully. It is a story about regrets and second chances. About the ways our childhoods impact our lives and the ways we break those patterns. I read it in a single sitting. While it is a mystery - there is a dead body and a missing object, the characters spend the book trying to figure out what happened - it is more of a quiet rumination on memory and possibilities than a thriller. Caroline Hewitt's narration is warm and inviting. Thank you to the author, Harlequin Audio, and NetGalley for the audioARC.
January 1, 2026
I read the first chapter and absolutely was NOT feeling it.
January 28, 2026
Being a sucker for any Speculative/Mystery/Romance novel that involves books, I chose this title for its inclusion of dark academia, libraries, and literature. I was not disappointed as Harrison crafts an interesting tale of secrets, the power of the written word and story, and flawed CHs searching for connection. Eleanor is the current head librarian of Harvard’s Library of Fates which contains a magical book, The Book of Dark Night, curated by her boss, Odile Vernet, who has died from the first pages of this tale. Odile’s history with the book, her Svengali-like mentor Julian, her son Daniel (who is Eleanor’s former lover and has forgotten her and much of his history), and the classmates that comprise Eleanor and Daniel’s class is shared with the reader in flashbacks labeled THEN (1995) with current events taking place in NOW (2019) as Daniel comes home from Europe where he runs an inn and a mountain climbing business to bury and mourn his mother, hopefully get his inheritance which he financially needs, and gets embroiled in the mystery surrounding her death when the Book goes missing from the library. Since the Book powers the magic of the library, this causes a domino effect as others who search for the book for its monetary value and its magical properties, like former classmate, now Assistant Dean, ambitious Will, and Daniel’s daughter 18-year-old Sandrine. This is a journey the reader will want to experience on their own; however, the magical mechanism is fascinating and innovative, and the literary and library allusions wonderful and the plot compelling, even if a bit predictable. Eleanor, Daniel, and Odile are strong CHs and dominate the narrative arc and the secondary CHs serve the purpose of this story but tend to be less distinct. Harvard’s Widener Library and the imaginary Library of Fates infuse the Plot with authentic Tone as Eleanor and Daniel walk the campuses, the streets of Cambridge, and dormitories like Dunster House. Library scenes are permeated with the heady scents of old leather and yellowing pages. The author employs some interesting metaphorical allusions to the interior library and the sunlit great outdoors—emphasizing dark and light, evil and good. “A shadow world for people who have chosen to live their lives through books instead of climbing mountains in the sunlight” (Daniel in 2019/246). Tone goes from sweet romantic tingles and passionate devotion to sinister shadows and confusing puzzles. Good ST (Sexual Tension), adequate dialogue, and a satisfactory, partially surprising, conclusion. RED FLAGS include Child accidental death, Illegitimacy, Violence. Readalikes may be Gareth Brown’s The Book of Doors> for that combo of CHs, Setting, and Magical Tone, Leigh Barduo’s Ninth House for the dark academic Setting and CHs, and Katy Hays’ The Cloisters set in NYC without the Speculative aspects.
December 3, 2025
Oh, how delightfully enchanting and mind-bending! This isn't my usual literary haunt, but it's a refreshing escape from the usual murder and mayhem. And seriously, can we just take a moment to admire that cover? It's practically begging for a spot on your Instagram feed.
Eleanor, an apprentice at the Library of Fates, must team up with Daniel, her estranged former love, after her mentor dies and a rare book, The Book of Dark Nights, goes missing. As they search for the book, which predicts the future based on confessions, they rekindle their relationship while facing dangers from a mysterious antagonist determined to seize the book.
The story unfolds through a dual timeline, giving us a rich tapestry of character development and a peek into the mysterious workings of the library. The writing is so vivid and engaging that I devoured it in one sitting. I could practically see the library in my mind's eye, and I found myself pondering what book it might conjure up for me. Intriguing, isn't it?
As I approached the finale, I was on the edge of my seat, breath held, hoping for a satisfying conclusion. I couldn't help but cheer for Eleanor and Daniel as they pieced together their tangled past. You'll be in for a surprise when you uncover the truth, but I'll let you savor that revelation on your own.
I went for the full experience, and with my very first physical ARC, I also grabbed the audiobook. I really enjoyed the narrator's energy and the variety of voices she used, not to mention her accent—it made for a fantastic listening experience. If you find yourself too busy to sit down with a book, don’t miss out on the chance to get an audiobook!
If you're a fan of cozy mysteries with a dash of magical realism and a hint of dark academia, don't hesitate to dive into this one! It's the perfect gift for anyone needing a break from gory thrillers or syrupy romances. You get a bit of everything, and the characters are so compelling you'll find it nearly impossible to put down. I bet many of you would relate to Eleanor—if you had her power, would you use it for good? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Thank you, The Hive and Harlequin Audio, for the digital ARC copies. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Eleanor, an apprentice at the Library of Fates, must team up with Daniel, her estranged former love, after her mentor dies and a rare book, The Book of Dark Nights, goes missing. As they search for the book, which predicts the future based on confessions, they rekindle their relationship while facing dangers from a mysterious antagonist determined to seize the book.
The story unfolds through a dual timeline, giving us a rich tapestry of character development and a peek into the mysterious workings of the library. The writing is so vivid and engaging that I devoured it in one sitting. I could practically see the library in my mind's eye, and I found myself pondering what book it might conjure up for me. Intriguing, isn't it?
As I approached the finale, I was on the edge of my seat, breath held, hoping for a satisfying conclusion. I couldn't help but cheer for Eleanor and Daniel as they pieced together their tangled past. You'll be in for a surprise when you uncover the truth, but I'll let you savor that revelation on your own.
I went for the full experience, and with my very first physical ARC, I also grabbed the audiobook. I really enjoyed the narrator's energy and the variety of voices she used, not to mention her accent—it made for a fantastic listening experience. If you find yourself too busy to sit down with a book, don’t miss out on the chance to get an audiobook!
If you're a fan of cozy mysteries with a dash of magical realism and a hint of dark academia, don't hesitate to dive into this one! It's the perfect gift for anyone needing a break from gory thrillers or syrupy romances. You get a bit of everything, and the characters are so compelling you'll find it nearly impossible to put down. I bet many of you would relate to Eleanor—if you had her power, would you use it for good? I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Thank you, The Hive and Harlequin Audio, for the digital ARC copies. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 29, 2025
The Library of Fates follows two college students studying in a magical library that knows what you need (or what book you need) and can read your fate. It follows Eleanor, who is quiet, reserved, and briefly serving as the Librarian in the Library of Fates following the death of the previous librarian and Daniel, her son who vanished years ago without explanation and also Eleanors ex. The two must find a book that is now missing from the library, the book that will tell you your future in exchange for a secret-until the pages run out.
While I didn't love the dynamic between Eleanor and Daniel, I really loved the writing style. I could see influences from a couple of other magical realism books I really enjoyed.
This had some easy fantasy vibes and whatever the medium version of dark academia is. I don't think it was inherently "dark" vibes even with the whole "don't lie" and death component. The book relied heavily on the emotions behind the characters and their secrets tied to the book. If you could confess your greatest secret in exchange for knowing your future, would you?
The Library of Fates is set to be published December 2, 2025 and I received an advanced copy from Netgalley in exchange for my review.
While I didn't love the dynamic between Eleanor and Daniel, I really loved the writing style. I could see influences from a couple of other magical realism books I really enjoyed.
This had some easy fantasy vibes and whatever the medium version of dark academia is. I don't think it was inherently "dark" vibes even with the whole "don't lie" and death component. The book relied heavily on the emotions behind the characters and their secrets tied to the book. If you could confess your greatest secret in exchange for knowing your future, would you?
The Library of Fates is set to be published December 2, 2025 and I received an advanced copy from Netgalley in exchange for my review.
December 3, 2025
Conceptually interesting, if flawed in execution.
I liked the idea behind this and I’m sort of intrigued by (and perhaps equally horrified by) the idea of and implications of an All Things book.
Even the jumping off point for this used here is pretty good, though ultimately there’s some nonsense to the plot here that is tough to get past in order to consider this a fully successful novel.
The setting is pretty well rendered, as are the academics, though the latter does fall apart once it begins to play into character motivations and also the origins of the magical book at the center of all of this.
The magical system feels flimsy, particularly when looking at how this book connects to the library and why it causes the things it does. In short, it was a good idea, but not especially well realized.
The characters are also tough to care about in any meaningful way. It’s not that they’re unlikable, but that they aren’t nuanced or interesting enough to help you invest in them fully, which then causes the reader to be pickier about flaws in the story and its systemic issues.
This isn’t a bad read at all and it’s well paced, but the concept as a whole feels a bit half baked.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I liked the idea behind this and I’m sort of intrigued by (and perhaps equally horrified by) the idea of and implications of an All Things book.
Even the jumping off point for this used here is pretty good, though ultimately there’s some nonsense to the plot here that is tough to get past in order to consider this a fully successful novel.
The setting is pretty well rendered, as are the academics, though the latter does fall apart once it begins to play into character motivations and also the origins of the magical book at the center of all of this.
The magical system feels flimsy, particularly when looking at how this book connects to the library and why it causes the things it does. In short, it was a good idea, but not especially well realized.
The characters are also tough to care about in any meaningful way. It’s not that they’re unlikable, but that they aren’t nuanced or interesting enough to help you invest in them fully, which then causes the reader to be pickier about flaws in the story and its systemic issues.
This isn’t a bad read at all and it’s well paced, but the concept as a whole feels a bit half baked.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
December 17, 2025
The Library of Fates
By: Margot Harrison
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Genre: SciFi Fantasy
Narrated by: Caroline Hewitt
Released: 12/2/2025
📚 Dark Academia
🪄Magic Library
📚A Book That Can Kill
🪄Predicting The Future
📚Lost Book
The librarian keeper dies mysteriously, and there are 2 former classmates Daniel & Eleanor and they need to start looking for a rare book. There is a book called The Book of Dark Nights. This book is where people write their confessions and it can you about your future. It can also assist on providing you with the perfect book you need in the library for whatever you’re going through.
Daniel & Eleanor have difficulty working together as they used to have a thing for each other in college but now years later they are unsure where they stand with each other. Especially since Daniel has no recollection of their time together. As they are trying to work together they know this book is a lot more dark than what they thought.
I feel like you definitely need to pay attention to this book as it can get confusing as there is a lot of development. Overall I did enjoy the book. I feel like Caroline was able to narrate the characters perfectly.
Thank you to NetGalley, Margot & Harlequin Audio for the ALC! I appreciate it!
As a reminder please always check TWs!
By: Margot Harrison
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Genre: SciFi Fantasy
Narrated by: Caroline Hewitt
Released: 12/2/2025
📚 Dark Academia
🪄Magic Library
📚A Book That Can Kill
🪄Predicting The Future
📚Lost Book
The librarian keeper dies mysteriously, and there are 2 former classmates Daniel & Eleanor and they need to start looking for a rare book. There is a book called The Book of Dark Nights. This book is where people write their confessions and it can you about your future. It can also assist on providing you with the perfect book you need in the library for whatever you’re going through.
Daniel & Eleanor have difficulty working together as they used to have a thing for each other in college but now years later they are unsure where they stand with each other. Especially since Daniel has no recollection of their time together. As they are trying to work together they know this book is a lot more dark than what they thought.
I feel like you definitely need to pay attention to this book as it can get confusing as there is a lot of development. Overall I did enjoy the book. I feel like Caroline was able to narrate the characters perfectly.
Thank you to NetGalley, Margot & Harlequin Audio for the ALC! I appreciate it!
As a reminder please always check TWs!
December 4, 2025
This fantasy novel is about a magical library and the dark secrets it keeps. Told through dual timelines 24 years apart, the story follows two impressionable college students in 1995 as they spiral further under the influence of a mysterious book, and picks up as they reunite in 2019 after the suspicious disappearance of said book. As they work to decipher clues in the present, the events of the past catch up to them in unexpected ways.
While I enjoyed some of the reflections of how books can change their readers, overall I found there were too many unanswered questions and stereotypical characterizations for me to feel truly satisfied by “The Library of Fates.” I also found the dual timelines confusing, as they were both set in the same location with the same characters and the same preoccupations; because of this, I often felt myself drifting and getting confused about where I was in the story. Though the ending provided some closure, unfortunately this book fell flat for me.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
While I enjoyed some of the reflections of how books can change their readers, overall I found there were too many unanswered questions and stereotypical characterizations for me to feel truly satisfied by “The Library of Fates.” I also found the dual timelines confusing, as they were both set in the same location with the same characters and the same preoccupations; because of this, I often felt myself drifting and getting confused about where I was in the story. Though the ending provided some closure, unfortunately this book fell flat for me.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
December 24, 2025
Thank you to Harequin Trade Publishing for the gifted arc copy. Thank you to Harlequin Audio for the alc. All opinions are my own. The audiobook narration was excellent. I really felt like I was in the story.
We follow our main protagonist through a mystery plot of a missing magical book and the death of her mentor. I really enjoyed the mystery aspect and finding out more about the magic surrounding the book which was very unique and interesting. This book does deal with a lot of death and secrets/confessions. I read through it quickly because I wanted to know the answer to the mystery, and I didn’t see the reveal coming at all! I would have liked more depth to some of the characters. Overall, I did enjoy it. This story includes magical realism, memory loss, dual timelines, academic setting, and a big mystery.
We follow our main protagonist through a mystery plot of a missing magical book and the death of her mentor. I really enjoyed the mystery aspect and finding out more about the magic surrounding the book which was very unique and interesting. This book does deal with a lot of death and secrets/confessions. I read through it quickly because I wanted to know the answer to the mystery, and I didn’t see the reveal coming at all! I would have liked more depth to some of the characters. Overall, I did enjoy it. This story includes magical realism, memory loss, dual timelines, academic setting, and a big mystery.
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