Book Review: The Seven Skins of Esther Wilding
December 17, 2025
Simultaneously a story of grief, self-discovery, and simple kindnesses, this was an incredibly peaceful read, and I didn’t want it to end.
Simultaneously a story of grief, self-discovery, and simple kindnesses, this was an incredibly peaceful read, and I didn’t want it to end.
Twisting through plots like a winding path, it slowly weaves itself together into a bizarre story of immortals, romance and above all, a bet.
Twisting through the plot like a winding path, it slowly weaves together into a bizarre story of immortals, romance and above all, a bet.
There are no heroes here; every single character is deeply flawed, not just the three teenage boys accused of murder.
This poetic prose turned whirlwind novel reveals the plastic neon monotony of addiction without ever being repetitive.
Kate Riley’s unique heroine has such a wry, funny, subversive voice that her day-to-day reflections are completely absorbing.
Laing explores both the conditions that enable fascism, and the power of art to hold a mirror to the society that forms it.
Set in Georgian London, this novel delves into the world of antiques with mystery, intrigue, and (possibly) cursed objects thrown in.
At times, I wasn’t sure I was enjoying the company of Dalton’s narrator, but the mysteries and challenges that stacked up kept hooking me in.
If you’re a fan of immersive world building & headstrong heroines, you’ll love this novel – the first in a 4-book series!
Koko’s voice has so much dry humour and warmth and it was the strength of his perspective that made the novel so absorbing for me.
Engrossing and slow-building, this left me with a similar feeling as a well-told true crime podcast: half the story is in the context.
What do you get if you put Shakespeare obsessed thespians, and murder together? Drama, drama and more drama.
This is a large book, but with writing like Desai’s, it only intensifies the complete immersion that pulls you under like a spell.
Laura Borrowdale is an author of immense talent, as this collection of work will prove to all daring enough to read.
For those feeling like a light mystery with a little mythological flavour or for those that love the sea…
There is darkness in this story, but it’s leavened by Smith’s ever-playful storytelling, and her characters’ capacity for resistance & hope.
I read this book out of the morbid curiosity and was violently pulled into the tragic tale of the Dollanganger siblings.
Katie Yee describes the calamitous events in one woman’s life with a light touch, but her beautifully crafted prose is full of power.
I love authors who write like this, a collection of small moments that lead to an ending that leaves you off-kilter and slightly dazed.