I liked the idea of the folkore mixed with fantasy. I liked a lot and it kept me hooked from the beginning wondering how everything was going!

Macbeth is my favorite Shakespeare play and I can be really judgmental about retellings of it, so it was to my delight that this book exceeded my expectations and more. With enough worldbuilding to stand on its own and enough nods to the original to make me genuinely breathless about what comes next from the story I know, this is a perfect fantasy debut and I can't wait to see where the story goes next.

My Keen Knife by Ana Davis

(Releases October 14th 2025)

Thankyou to Turner publishing for this advanced copy I received through NetGalley. And thankyou to Ana Davis for this thrilling adventure.

No spoiler review.

Love, betrayal and magic.

This was a very distinct read following three teenagers in a Portugal inspired YA Fantasy that draws on Shakespeare’s Macbeth for inspiration. It’s a fast paced read from start to end opening on a pivotal moment that sets the scene and tone for the novel. It includes non-binary representation and multiple points of view.

There’s an interesting tension between established religion and monarchy versus the emergence of science and magical rivals. I loved the revival of Shakespearean themes and motifs making this books an enjoyable and nostalgic read. The ending has me hooked and I cannot wait to continue reading what Davis has to offer.

5/5✨