I recently discovered Bookbot, a second-hand book marketplace here in Germany, and let’s just say… my self-control has left the building! But here’s the win: I’ve been selling my unloved books to get credit, so I’m basically just trading “thank you, next” reads for new adventures. It’s the perfect way to give books a second chance without the “TBR-guilt.”
Will these be my new favorites? Let’s dive into the haul!
The Undermining of Twyla and Frank – Megan Bannen
Set in the same world as The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy, this story follows Twyla, a marshal, and Frank, her longtime friend. When a mission goes sideways, they find themselves navigating dangerous magic and feelings they’ve kept buried for years.
Why I picked it up: After The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy made it onto my Best Books of 2024 list, I knew I needed more Megan Bannen. I loved the “cosy-meets-romance” vibe of the first book. It’s so hard to find romance that feels authentic and sweet rather than forced, but Hart and Mercy’s love was just chef’s kiss. This one looks like a friends-to-lovers story, and honestly, who doesn’t love that trope?
Prediction Rating: 5/5 Stars ★
Immortal Dark – Tigest Girma
A dark academic fantasy about an orphan who joins a prestigious university to find her lost sister, only to find herself entangled with a dangerous vampire and a centuries-old secret.
Why I picked it up: Look at that cover! It screams dark, moody vibes! I don’t know much about the plot, but as a former Twilight kid who used to devour vampire stories, I couldn’t resist. I’m going in with zero expectations, hoping to be pleasantly surprised by the darkness within.
Prediction Rating: 3/5 Stars ★
The Swan’s Daughter – Roshani Chokshi
In a kingdom where marriage literally means murder thanks to a sea witch’s curse, Prince Arris must find true love or risk being turned into a tree. Enter Demelza, a “veritas swan” whose song forces out the truth. Together, they navigate a deadly “tournament of brides” where every contestant is potentially a killer.
Why I picked it up: I saw this on the shop and clicked BUY instantly. I originally wanted to pre-order it, but with a TBR of over 100 books, I tried to be responsible… until I saw it second-hand! I previously read The Last Flower Bride by Chokshi, while the plot didn’t totally floor me, her prose is magical. Sometimes you just need a beautiful, atmospheric story, that’s not to complex, to get lost in.
Prediction Rating: 4/5 Stars ★
The Discomfort of Evening – Marieke Lucas Rijneveld
After her brother dies in a tragic skating accident, young Jas and her strictly religious farming family spiral into a raw, haunting grief. To cope with the silence and the “discomfort” of her home, Jas develops strange rituals and refuses to take off her red coat, creating a visceral world of her own where the boundaries between childhood innocence and dark reality completely blur.
Why I picked it up: Recommended by one of my favourite YouTubers, Books with Brittany. She mentioned it’s absolutely heartbreaking, and let’s be real: what do I love more than a book that leaves me in tears? I’m also excited to read more translated fiction. Different cultures have also differentes vibes in literature and I’m curious to see if this one has also a special vibe, because its Dutch. Let’s see if it will break me.
Prediction Rating: 5/5 Stars ★
Don’t Let the Forest In – C.G. Drews
A dark, eerie YA horror-fantasy about two boys, an enchanted forest that feeds on secrets, and a friendship that blurs the lines between love and obsession.
Why I picked it up: If you spend any time in the online book bubble, you know that C.G. Drews is an absolute star. This book seems to pop up in every single recommendation video lately and the hype is impossible to ignore. What really sold me, though, is the reputation of the writing itself. It’s famous for being incredibly lyrical, atmospheric, and “purple” in the best way possible. I’m a total sucker for those exaggerated, poetic prose styles that feel almost like a fever dream. Usually, massive bookstagram hypes can be a bit of a hit-or-miss for me, but I’m ready to take the risk on this one. Plus, can we talk about that cover? It’s a literal work of art and deserves a spot on my shelf for the aesthetic alone!
Prediction Rating: 5/5 Stars ★
Black Sheep – Rachel Harrison
Vesper left her family’s religious cult years ago and never looked back. But when she’s unexpectedly invited to her cousin’s wedding, she’s forced to return and face the dark, supernatural secrets she thought she’d escaped.
Why I picked it up: Books about cults and fanatical groups are my absolute sweet spot! I love the tension and the eerie atmosphere they bring to a story. Although I haven’t read anything by Rachel Harrison yet, she has so many titles that sound right up my alley. Her backlist is honestly intimidating in the best way.
I’ve heard she perfectly blends emotional depth with a sharp, dark sense of humor, which reminds me of T. Kingfisher. If Black Sheep wins me over, I’m definitely diving headfirst into the rest of her books. And who knows? After reading this, I might just end up joining the cult myself (just kidding… mostly!).
Prediction Rating: 4/5 Stars ★
Now I want to hear from you! Have you read any of these? Which one should I move to the top of my pile? Let me know in the comments!
The Reading Stray 
Tolle Auswahl und viel Spaß beim lesen:) 👍
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Vielen vielen Dank 🙂
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Black Sheep is my favorite Rachel Harrison book! Enjoy, these all sound good😁
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Aaah that sounds promising!!! Can’t wait to read it 🙂 thank you!
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