Page 22 - Reader's House Magazine Issue 52

EDITOR’S CHOICE
CAGED
by CC Robinson
A gripping, fast-paced dystopian sequel with high stakes, compelling characters, and relentless tensi- on—Caged keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
Caged, the second instalment in CC Robinson’s Divided series, is a gripping YA dystopian novel that keeps readers on edge from start to finish. Picking up where Divided left off, we find protagonist Rose in an even more dire situation—stripped of her freedom, trapped in a literal prison, and cut off from those who once stood by her side.
Robinson crafts a tense, claustrophobic at- mosphere that mirrors Rose’s predicament, making every chapter pulse with urgency. The stakes are higher than ever, as Rose not only fights for her own survival but also for the future of her city. Her journey from helpless captive to determined fighter is compelling, showcasing resilience and the power of hope in the face of tyranny.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its pacing. The action never falters, and as Rose unravels the sinister schemes of her captors, the tension builds masterfully. The story is interwoven with moments of reflection and character growth, ensuring that it’s not just about high-stakes action but also about the emotional depth of its heroine.
Readers who enjoyed Divergent or The Giver will appreciate the familiar dystopian themes, yet Caged maintains its own unique identity. With a well-de- veloped world, gripping suspense, and a protagonist worth rooting for, this sequel solidifies the Divided series as a must-read for fans of the genre.
An electrifying read that delivers both heart and adrenaline—Robinson does not disappoint.
DELICIOUS SURRENDER
by Luce Sutherland
Intensely passionate, thrillingly suspenseful, and irresistibly steamy—Delicious Surrender delivers fiery chemistry, gripping tension, and a deeply satisfying romance.
Luce Sutherland delivers a steamy, high-stakes ro- mance in Delicious Surrender, the first instalment of the Dominant Billionaire Series. With a tantalising mix of power play, sizzling chemistry, and emotional depth, this novel is an enticing read for fans of the grumpy-sunshine trope.
Brynne Larimore, an independent and headstrong writer, finds herself entangled in the dark allure
of Club Dominus, a world ruled by the icy and domineering Gage MacLeod. Their dynamic is elec- tric—Brynne’s defiance sparks fire against Gage’s relentless control, making for an intoxicating push- and-pull. The tension is palpable, with Sutherland masterfully balancing fiery exchanges with moments of raw vulnerability.
While the romance is undeniably steamy, what sets this book apart is its suspenseful undercurrent. The presence of a dangerous Russian club member adds an element of intrigue, forcing Gage to con- front not only his protective instincts but also his own vulnerabilities. The stakes rise when betrayal threatens his business, pushing both characters to their limits.
Sutherland’s writing is crisp and immersive, painting a vivid picture of London’s elite club scene while delving into themes of trust, power, and emotional surrender. The pacing is tight, keeping the reader hooked through every twist and turn.
If you enjoy passionate, angst-ridden romances with dominant yet redeemable heroes, Delicious Surrender will not disappoint. The hard-fought hap- py ending is well-earned, making this a satisfying start to what promises to be a compelling series.
HENCHMEN
by Matthew Hughes
A gripping, witty fantasy adventure with rich world-building, engaging characters, and masterful storytelling—Hughes delivers intrigue, action, and unforgettable magic.
Matthew Hughes’ Henchmen is a gripping fantasy novel that blends adventure, intrigue, and a touch
of dry humour into a thoroughly enjoyable read. Set in a world where even employment is dictated by a Duke’s decree, the story follows Vunt, a gambler, and Oldo, a farm boy, as they stumble into a job that is both lucrative and deeply suspicious. Their new employer’s shifty dealings soon propel them into a far greater and more dangerous world than they ever imagined.
The novel masterfully balances classic fantasy elements with a refreshing, character-driven nar- rative. Hughes excels in crafting protagonists who feel authentic—Vunt’s cunning contrasts nicely with Oldo’s naivety, making their dynamic both engaging and entertaining. As the pair are drawn into a web of espionage, wizardly schemes, and perilous travels, the plot unfolds with a steady momentum that keeps the pages turning.
Hughes’ writing is rich yet accessible, reminiscent of classic adventure fantasy but with a modern wit that makes it stand out. The setting is immersive, with detailed world-building that never overwhelms the reader. The city of Olliphract, with its unpre- dictable thaumaturges, is a particularly fascinating backdrop.
For fans of fantasy that doesn’t take itself too seri- ously yet delivers on action and intrigue, Henchmen is a must-read. Hughes proves once again that he is a master of weaving intelligent, well-paced storytell- ing with a unique voice. Highly recommended.
22 II Reader’s House
NOVEL • STORY • LITERATURE