Field Guide for the Formerly Villainous
by Autumn K. England
Field Guide for the Formerly Villainous is a charming cozy fantasy tale by Autumn K. England who has also written works under the name M.K. England. Oakland Nettlewood wanted to learn magic, but unfortunately the group they joined turned out to be a cult, whose leader, the Enchantrix, used mind control to force followers to do horrible things including murder. Now that the cult has been defeated, Oakland is attempting to turn over a new leaf and settle into farming and perhaps even form some friendships in the quaint town of Mossley’s Rest. The last thing they want to do is to use magic, but the ghost of the farm’s former owner has other ideas. The novel will especially resonate for those who have struggled to create a new path for themselves and/or are dealing with past trauma. Oakland’s love interest is also dealing with her own issues of grief, guilt and reinvention. Another of the characters is dealing with burn out and all are recovering from the losses that occurred due to the battles with the Enchantrix.
Field Guide for the Formerly Villainous will also appeal to those looking for stories set in a queernormative world; Oakland use they pronouns and though it is mentioned several times about their wearing of a chest binder, their gender identity is never discussed or questioned by any of the world’s inhabitants. If you enjoy this story you might also want to check out Violet Thistlewaite is not a Villain Any More which also focuses on rehabilitated magic user.
Samantha Spuk: Paranormal Wedding Planner
by Aleese Lin
Since childhood, recent graduate, Samantha “Sabby” Spuk has only ever wanted to be boringly normal which she thinks her new job as an accountant will allow, but when her grandmother passes away and names Sabby her will’s executioner, the supernatural comes raging back in to her life in the form of temporary jobs as a wedding planner to creatures such as vampires along with a “pet” talking human head, and a manic pixie assistant. As kooky as Sabby’s experiences are, the desire to break free from one’s family is one many new adults will find relatable. There is a bit of romance from the mysterious Hanry, who is also aware of the supernatural world, but claims to be fully human. Samantha Spuk: Paranormal Wedding Planner, Aleese Lin’s debut novel, is full of “spuky” fun and will appeal to those looking for light, funny urban fantasy escapism. If you enjoy this story you may also want to check out MaryJanice Davidson’s Undead/Queen Betsy Vampire series that has a similar humorous urban fantasy vibe.
Written by:
Aimee Harris
Information and Digital Services Manager
Hoboken Public Library Blog 