Welcome back to Recent Reads! My fortnightly post highlighting some books that I have recently read.
I admit I haven’t kept up with my recent reads posts for a while now, and I do apologise. I’ve been somewhat lacking blogging motivation but I promise I am going to keep on top of this series from now on.
This week I am sharing some incredible books, all ones which I adored.
Pet by Akwaeke Emezi
Trigger Warnings: Child abuse, blood.
This was such a compelling read, that despite it short size had me captivated. I loved the diverse representation within it – for example our main character, Jam was a Black transgender woman, and the overall message of good vs evil I felt was portrayed extremely well. Also, I want to mention the character of Pet, who was slightly scary but I enjoyed reading the dynamic between themselves and Jam.
Read With Pride by Lucy Powrie
Trigger Warnings: Homophobia, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief.
I must admit I LOVED Read With Pride a bit more than its predecessor, The Paper & Hearts Society. It had all the magic of the first one, plus a little bit extra. I really enjoyed getting to know Olivia a lot more, and follow her on her journey to get their school library to embrace LGBTQ+ books, and how she coped with preparing for her GCSE’s. Lucy Powrie has a gift of creating incredible teenage characters and bringing them to life via amazing narratives. I cannot wait for book three!
Boy Queen by George Lester
Trigger warnings: Homophobia, physical abuse, emotional abuse.
Boy Queen was one fabulous read all about friendship, love, glitter and drag and I was all for it. This was a fun read, that also delved into some issues such as homophobia, identity, friendship and coming out. The way George was able to capture our main character, Robin’s inner struggles is commendable and reminded me of how I was when I was 18 with regards to not knowing what to do with my life. Also, I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the art of drag and made me realise how much work goes into it. I for one am so excited to reader what George writes next. My full review is here.
Heartbreak Boys by Simon James Green
Trigger Warnings: Homophobia, cheating, heartbreak.
Simon James Green is one of my favourite authors of LGBTQ+ and YA comedy, and his latest book Heartbreak Boys was no exception. This had everything you could expect from a Simon James Green novel. It was utterly hilarious and had me full on belly laughing several times. Simon’s way of writing comedy is so unique and I lapped it all up. It’s such a feel good read that will have you pining to go on a camping trip here in UK. My full review is here.
F.O.X.E.S by M.A. Bennett
Trigger Warnings: Racism, animal abuse, murder, arson, explosion, sexism.
F.O.X.E.S. is the third book in the S.T.A.G.S series, a series which doesn’t get enough attention as it deserves. I must say this is probably my favourite book of the series so far and was worth the impatient wait. As soon as I picked it up I was transported back into this world of privilege, secrets and lies and was captivated. The narrative was thrilling and the way Bennett weaved historical moments into the plot was incredible. You are kept on your toes throughout the entire book and come the end I was shook. Book four can’t come quick enough!