The writing was beautiful as always with Olivie Blake but I did think some of the stories were better than others which is normal for story collections for me.

Title: Januaries by Olivie Blake

Release Date: October, 15th, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

Januaries is a captivating collection of short stories. This anthology took me by surprise…in a very good way! Januaries offers a blend of new narratives and beloved classics, taking readers on a whimsical journey through a variety of genres and themes.

Here's why I loved this collection and what stood out to me:

What I Enjoyed:

* Inventive Storytelling:
* Each story in this collection is a testament to Blake’s imaginative prowess. Whether it's a tutelary spirit dealing with burnout or a banished fairy navigating modern-day Craigslist, the creativity in these tales is boundless.

* Rich Allegory and Metaphor:
* Blakes ability to weave allegory and metaphor into her stories is nothing short of genius. She masterfully captures the essence of human experience, distilling complex emotions and situations into beautifully written narratives.

* Diverse Themes:
* The stories cover a wide range of themes, from motherhood and mental health to thermodynamics and entropy. This diversity keeps the reader engaged and offers something for everyone.

* Modified Fairytales:
* The collection includes modern twists on classic fairytales, adding depth and new perspectives to beloved stories. These modified fairytales are both nostalgic and refreshing.

* Contemporary Heists and Absurdist Poetry:
* The contemporary heists are thrilling, and the absurdist poetry adds a layer of humour and introspection. This combination of genres highlights Blakes versatility as a writer.

* Multiverse Adventures:
* These tales explore fascinating what-if scenarios that captivate the imagination.

* Human Experience:
* Blakes exploration of what it means to be human is both brutal and beautiful. She doesn't shy away from the great and terrible aspects of life, presenting them with clarity and empathy.

* Engaging Writing Style:
* Blake’s writing is engaging and evocative. Her prose is both lyrical and accessible, making the stories a joy to read.

Januaries by Olivie Blake is a must-read for anyone who loves imaginative, thought-provoking short stories. With her unique blend of allegory, metaphor, and rich thematic exploration, Blake has crafted a collection that is both entertaining and deeply moving. Whether you’re drawn to modified fairytales, contemporary heists, or multiverse assassins, this anthology has something to offer.

Dive into Januaries and escape the mundane with these magical ruminations on life, death, and everything in between!


Thank you to The Publisher Tor Publishing Group | Tor Books ,The Author Olivie Blake & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

Despite having her books on both my physical and digital TBR lists, I have never actually read anything by Olivie Blake. I feel like this collection of short stories was a good insight into her writing style and preferences.

The stories were magical and whimsical, making me look forward to read her full length novels.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Januaries by Olivie Blake
Stories of Love, Magic & Betrayal
Rating:4/5
Release Date: 15 October 2024

I unexpectedly found myself captivated by this collection of short stories,

The initial story left me awestruck and every subsequent tale held me spellbound. The characters are irresistible, each story presenting romance in a fresh, occasionally unsettling manner, and with each passing section, the story surpassed the last.

“Januaries” was an absolutely wonderful read. Thank you, Olivie Blake.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Tor Publishing Group, and the author, Olivia Blake, for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest and fair review.

"Januaries" is a mesmerizing journey through the timeless themes of love, heartbreak, and mortality, portrayed through a captivating fairytale lens. Olivie's distinctive blend of sharp wit and poignant twists creates an enchanting narrative that seamlessly weaves together modified fairytales, contemporary heists, and absurdist poetry. Each page is imbued with magical ruminations on life and love, making this book a spellbinding read from start to finish.

I loved this collection of short stories so much. Blake is a genius of allegory, metaphor, and somehow summing up great and terrible aspects of what it means to be human with brutal and beautiful clarity. From motherhood to mental health, with a dose of thermodynamics and entropy, she does it all in this collection. Forever in awe of her brilliance across genres and mediums.

Thanks to Tor Books and NetGalley for the ARC!

Fans will be pleased by the easy prose, drifting plots, variety, and steady pace. I stopped at 6% but I’d definitely expect 3 to 4 stars for her fans.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for the ARC.

Wow I did not realize how much I had missed the Blake’s writing until I picked this up! This book kept me up reading till the wee hours of the morning and actually ended up being one of my top fav reads of this year already. I squeeeed out loud so many times while reading it!! Blake is one truly gifted author and I love how the characters in here, never failed to bring a smile to the face and tug at the heart strings.