Cyn's Workshop

Today we’re reviewing Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab—one of the year’s most anticipated releases and a gothic fantasy that more than delivers. Dark, lyrical, and atmospheric, this novel takes you into a world where secrets linger in the shadows, grief haunts every choice, and beauty intertwines with horror. With Schwab’s trademark prose and unforgettable characters, Bury Our Bo...

Today we’re diving into Sunbringer and Faithbreaker—the breathtaking sequels to Hannah Kaner’s Godkiller. From start to finish, these books prove the series only gets stronger, delivering nonstop action, emotional depth, and worldbuilding that keeps you hooked until the very last page. If you thought Godkiller was good, these follow-ups raise the stakes with bigger battles, sharper character arcs,...

Today I’m reviewing Girl Dinner—a sharp, unsettling, and surprisingly witty collection that mixes dark humor with the raw hunger of survival, desire, and female agency. Each story explores what it means to live in a world that consumes women—sometimes literally—and how we push back with rage, resilience, and bite. If you love feminist horror, unsettling short fiction, or stories that blend the gro...

Today I’m reviewing Time After Time by Mikki Daughtry—an emotional YA novel that blends romance, grief, and the power of connection across timelines. This story explores what it means to move forward while still holding on to love, capturing the bittersweet emotions of heartbreak, healing, and second chances. With its heartfelt writing and themes of resilience, Time After Time is perfect for fans...

Today I’m reviewing Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry—a Romantasy that delivered solid characterization, a compelling plot, and strong worldbuilding… but fell short where it mattered most: the romance. While the characters are well-drawn and the pacing kept me turning pages, the emotional spark between the leads never fully landed for me. Still, there’s plenty here for fans of fantasy with romant...

Today I’m reviewing A Curse for the Homesick by Laura Brooke Robson—an emotional and beautifully crafted fantasy that explores the trials, expectations, and hidden burdens of being a woman. At its heart, this story asks where love fits in when survival, identity, and societal pressures weigh heavy. With its rich worldbuilding and layered character dynamics, A Curse for the Homesick delivers both m...

Today we’re reviewing Red Rising by Pierce Brown—the explosive first novel in the critically acclaimed sci-fi series that more than lives up to the hype. Blending the intensity of a dystopian uprising with the grandeur of Roman mythology and the epic scale of a space opera, Red Rising delivers action, heart, and themes that resonate long after you turn the last page. From Darrow’s transformation t...

Today I’m diving into Salvación by Sandra Proudman—an authentic, action-packed, genderbent reimagining of Zorro that blends rich cultural roots with magic, rebellion, and a spark of romance. From daring sword fights to enchanting worldbuilding, this novel delivers both adventure and heart. If you love fierce heroines, high stakes, and a dash of romance woven into a magical rebellion, you won’t wan...

Today I’m reviewing The Enemy’s Daughter by Melissa Poett—an addictive, high-stakes retelling of Tristan and Isolde set in a gritty dystopian world with just a touch of fantasy magic. Packed with forbidden love, political tension, and an atmosphere that keeps you turning the pages, this book is perfect for fans of romance with a dangerous edge. Tune in to hear why this story had me hooked from the...

In this episode, I’m reviewing Bound by Stars—a sweeping YA space fantasy filled with cosmic stakes, forbidden love, and a galaxy on the brink of revolution. 🚀✨ With richly imagined worlds, complex political tension, and characters torn between duty and desire, this book delivers everything you want from star-crossed sci-fi. Whether you're here for interstellar drama, rebellion against empires,...

In this episode, I’m reviewing Silvercloak by L.K. Steven—a gripping YA fantasy filled with magic, secrets, and the haunting question: what would you sacrifice to protect the truth? Set in a world where memory can be weaponized, Silvercloak delivers a high-stakes story about identity, legacy, and power. With mysterious pasts, deadly consequences, and a lead character you can’t help but root for, t...

In this episode, I’m diving into Sleep Like Death by Kalynn Bayron—a dark, fantasy reimagining of Snow White that blends fairytale magic with dangerous secrets. Raised to defeat the Knight, a sinister sorcerer who turns wishes into curses, Princess Eve thinks she knows her destiny—until a shocking truth about her past unravels everything. As her mother, Queen Regina, begins acting strangely and lo...

In this episode, we’re reviewing Lady or the Tiger by Heather M. Herrman—a fierce and haunting YA thriller set in the lawless Wild West. Meet Belle King: a teenage girl branded a killer, awaiting trial for murder. But when her abusive husband—presumed dead—suddenly reappears, the real fight begins. This gripping novel explores abuse, survival, and what it means to reclaim power in a brutal, male-d...

In this episode, I’m reviewing The Art of Exile—a stunning blend of Renaissance-inspired intrigue, artistic exploration, and futuristic twists. From the jaw-dropping opening to its layered commentary on innovation and the importance of art, this novel is perfect for fans of The Da Vinci Code, but with a fresh, genre-bending edge. Tune in to hear why this book left such a lasting impression and wha...

In today’s episode, we’re diving into Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson—a modern fantasy classic that blends heist-style rebellion with one of the most original magic systems in fiction. From Vin’s powerful arc to the dark, ash-covered world of Scadrial, this book had me hooked from page one. Whether you’re new to Sanderson or revisiting this epic tale, tune in to hear why Mistborn still sets the gold...

In this episode, I’m diving into The Reappearance of Rachel Price, a suspenseful YA mystery packed with secrets, surprises, and emotional depth. With every chapter, the tension builds and the plot twists keep coming. It’s a rollercoaster of a read that fans of thrilling, character-driven mysteries won’t want to miss. 📚 Get Your Copy: 🔗 Author Website: https://www.instagram.com/hojay92?igsh=amF0Z...

In this episode, I review What Monstrous Gods, a bold fantasy that explores faith, power, and the divine through a thoughtful lens. With its layered worldbuilding and complex questions about belief and morality, this book offers more than just magic—it invites reflection. Perfect for readers who love their fantasy rich with meaning and mythology. 📚 Get Your Copy: 🔗 Author Website: https://www.ro...

In this episode, we explore Hera , a fierce and empowering retelling of the Queen of the Gods. Far from the jealous wife trope, this reimagining gives Hera the agency, voice, and power she deserves. We’ll unpack the novel’s feminist themes, discuss how it reframes Greek mythology, and dive into why Hera’s story resonates so strongly today. If you love mythological retellings with bite, fury, and g...

Welcome back, book lovers! Today we’re diving into Sunrise on the Reaping , the latest and emotionally devastating installment in The Hunger Games universe. This prequel absolutely shattered me—in the best way possible. A full five-star read, packed with raw emotion, haunting power, and revelations I didn’t even know I needed. Let’s break it all down. Follow the Author: ⁠https://www.suzannecollins...

Today on the podcast, we’re diving into Deadstream —a queer paranormal novel that mixes psychological horror with a haunting critique of social media culture. With themes of PTSD, agoraphobia, and internet addiction, it’s a bold concept—but one I found hard to fully connect with. Let’s unpack why. 📚 Get Your Copy:🔗 Author Website: https://marromascomoore.com/🛍️ Buy on Barnes & Noble: https:/...

Today, we’re diving into Love at Second Sight—a spellbinding paranormal mystery brimming with heart, self-discovery, and the magic of finding where you truly belong. Follow the Author: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ft-lukens.com/ ⁠⁠⁠Buy on B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-at-second-sight-ft-lukens/1145682722?ean=9781665950947 Buy on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/8108/9781665950947 Become a Supporte...

If you love Studio Ghibli, you won't want to miss our review of Water Moon-a stunning tale of magic, self-discovery, and the power of choice. Follow the Author: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/samanthasottoyambao/⁠⁠⁠ Buy on B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/water-moon-samantha-sotto-yambao/1145417384?ean=9780593724996 Buy on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/8108/9780593724996 Become a Supporter:...

Today, we're reviewing The Poppy War, an incredible fantasy that had me hooked, even through all the trauma. Follow the Author: https://www.instagram.com/kuangrf/ ⁠Buy on B&N: ⁠⁠https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-poppy-war-collectors-edition-r-f-kuang/1144984067?ean=9780063413573 Buy on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/8108/9780063413573 Become a Supporter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.buymeacoffee....

Today, we're reviewing Blood of Hercules, and let me say, I hated this book and it was a complete waste of my time. Follow the Author: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jasminemasbooks/⁠⁠ ⁠Buy on B&N: ⁠⁠https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/blood-of-hercules-collectors-edition-jasmine-mas/1146049137?ean=9781335090614 Buy on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/8108/9781335474735 Become a Supporter: ⁠⁠⁠...

Today, we're reviewing Immortal, a great standalone that takes place in the Celestial Kingdom but stands on its own, featuring great characters and high stakes. Follow the Author: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/suelynntan⁠ ⁠⁠Buy on B&N: ⁠⁠https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/immortal-sue-lynn-tan/1145542109?ean=9780063267619 Buy on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/8108/9780063267619 Become a Su...