The Eights by Joanna Miller

Book: The Eights by Joanna Miller 

Rating: 3.8 Stars 

Review Writer: Vihaan J. 

The Eights by Joanna Miller is a historical fiction novel set in 1920 at Oxford University, following four young women—Beatrice, Dora, Marianne, and Otto—who are among the first females admitted to the university. Each character brings a unique background and personal struggles, from dealing with the aftermath of World War I to confronting societal expectations. Their journey through academic challenges and forging deep friendships highlights resilience and empowerment themes. Miller's research and colorful storytelling accurately depict the era, showing readers the post-war atmosphere and the fight for gender equality. The novel's strengths are its character development and the portrayal of the women's achievements as they navigate a traditionally male-dominated institution. While the narrative is engaging, some readers might find the pacing slow at times and certain plot developments predictable. Nonetheless, The Eights is a compelling read that will resonate with fans of historical fiction and stories centered on female friendship and perseverance

Gryphon's Valor by Mercedes Lackey and Larry Dixon (Kelvren's Saga, Book 2)

Book: Gryphon's Valor by Mercedes Lackey and Larry Dixon

Rating: 4 stars 

Review Writer: Vihaan J

Gryphon's Valor is an exciting adventure set in the world of Valdemar. The story follows Kelvren, a courageous gryphon hero who’s back for more action after a near-fatal self-sacrifice that won him both respect and unexpected complications. As the second book in the Kelvren's Saga trilogy, it dives deep into the challenges of loyalty, duty, and the heavy cost of heroism.. What I really loved about this book was how real and relatable the characters felt, despite the fantastical setting. The dialogue was snappy and engaging, and I appreciated how the narrative balanced intense action with reflective moments. That said, there were a few things that didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Some parts of the plot leaned on familiar fantasy clichés, and the ending felt a bit too much like a cliffhanger. Overall, I’d recommend Gryphon's Valor to any teen who loves a good mix of fantasy adventure and character-driven storytelling. If you like epic journeys, intricate world-building, and series that keep you guessing, this book is definitely worth a read.

One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus

 
Title: One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus
Rating: 4 stars
Review Writer: Teodora B.

 

One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus follows an intriguing plot that will hook readers in instantly. 5 students walk into detention. 4 leave. Who murdered the 5th? 

 

Each student - Bronwyn, the brain; Addy, the beauty; Nate, the bad boy; Cooper, the athlete - has their own story, and fair share of secrets. But most importantly, they all have their own reasons for wanting Simon, the school’s most notorious gossip blogger, gone. When he dies under suspicious circumstances, they all become suspects. As the investigation unfolds, tensions rise, friendships are tested, and the truth becomes harder to hide. 

 

I really enjoyed this book, because the characters are all relatable. There’s such diversity in their backgrounds and personalities, that everyone can find a character they connect to. I also like how each chapter is written from a different character’s perspective. It really allows you to understand where they are each coming from, and their reasons for doing certain things or behaving a certain way. It also has a very unexpected ending, so if you usually instantly guess who did it, this will be much harder for you to figure out. However, one thing I wasn’t a huge fan of was the pacing. The book has a slower pace as compared to other murder mystery books. Some of the scenes seem unnecessary, as they do not contribute to the plot. Overall, I would recommend One Of Us is Lying to fans of murder mystery novels, and thrillers. 

 

The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni

 

Title: The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni
Rating: 5 stars
Review Writer: Ava P.

The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni follows Kiva, a skilled healer locked away in the dangerous prison in Zalindov. When the Rebel Leader arrives and is near death, Kiva is forced to treat her or face execution. Knowing that the Rebel Leader will not survive the trials set before her, Kiva volunteers to face the deadly trials in her place.  While fighting to survive, she uncovers dangerous truths about the prison and her own past. In a world where survival is a constant struggle, Kiva must make impossible choices to save herself—and perhaps everyone else. 

I really enjoyed how there were so many plot twists and mysteries which have the reader at the edge of their seat throughout the book.  It was a page turner! The only thing I disliked about the book was that it was in third person which didn’t allow me to really connect with the main character. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy fantasy but also like reading mystery. Overall, I rate this book 5/5 stars.

Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber

Title: Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber
Rating: 4 stars
Review Writer: Ava P.

Heartbroken Evangeline Fox makes a desperate deal with the mysterious Prince of Hearts, Jacks, to stop her true love from marrying another. The bargain leads her into a world of magic, dangerous curses, and tangled secrets. As she journeys through enchanted realms, Evangeline must outwit cursed princes, face treacherous enemies, and confront her own heart’s desires. Along the way, she discovers that the price of her wishes may be more than she ever imagined.
 
I enjoyed how the author creates such an unusual world with so many intricate and intriguing characters who are unlike any that I have read about before. I really liked that the storyline is so unique and really fun and light-hearted. The only thing I disliked about the book was that it had a slower start which made it harder for me to get pulled into in the beginning.
 
I would recommend this book to readers who are looking for a fantasy that is light-hearted and adventure-filled with strong and unique characters. Overall I rate this book a 4/5 stars.
 

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

 

Title: The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

Rating: 4 stars

Review Writer: Ava P.

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black follows Jude, a mortal girl living in the treacherous world of Faeries, where deception and power struggles define everyday life. When she and her sisters are brought to the realm of Faerie, Jude must navigate its dangerous politics and cruel inhabitants, including the charming but ruthless Prince Cardan. Determined to earn a place in the faerie court, Jude faces unimaginable challenges that test her loyalty, ambition, and strength. I liked the complex and detailed descriptions of the book’s settings - it really gives the reader a clear view of what the unusual world of Faerie looks like and helps the reader understand and almost see how magical the mysterious world is. Additionally, I really liked how Holly Black made Jude so empowering.  Jude is fearless, strong, and incredibly cunning which I really liked because it made the story more entertaining. One of the only things I disliked about the book was how sometimes the plot was a little hard to understand as it was so intricately written - at points, I was very confused about what was going on. In addition to that, not much information is given at the beginning which makes it even more confusing as readers almost have to figure out certain parts on their own. I would recommend this book to readers who like political fantasies and plot twists on every page with a very small romance subplot. Overall I rate this book 4/5 stars.

Belladonna by Adalyn Grace

Title: Belladonna by Adalyn Grace

Rating: 4 stars

Review Writer: Ava P.

Belladonna by Adalyn Grace is a fantasy about Signa, an orphan who has a strange connection to Death himself. When she is invited to her remaining relatives’ secluded estate, she uncovers dark secrets about her family and it all ties to Death. As she grapples with newfound powers and the dangerous secrets they uncover, Signa must navigate the new world she has been accepted into while uncovering the truth about her mysterious past. I liked how the author was very detailed in her descriptions and had complicated characters throughout the book. The characters are intricately written which makes it harder to determine who is behind the mysteries Signa must uncover. The only thing I disliked about the book was how at times, it felt rather rushed and too fast-paced for my taste. Otherwise the story was really thrilling and exciting to read. I would recommend this book to people who like to try and solve mysteries themselves when they are reading a book, this particular book has so many twists and turns that it will always keep them guessing. Overall, I rate this a 4 out of 5 stars.