I don't recall the last time I read a historical Jewish folklore inspired book, if I have read one at all, and that's probably why this book was so refreshing to read. It's dark and gritty but entralling in its plot and characters.
I love that we get to see the POV of three characters, one of which is the villain, which is nice as we get to see what his motivation is. He also drives a lot of the plot so it would have been a loss to only have two POVs in this book.
The pacing is a bit slow overall, I would have liked the middle act to have more action going on but I understand how it was needed to set up the last act, which was so tense and exciting. The solution to figuring out how to slay an immortal foe was also brilliant and I didn't see it coming, and it made me giggle in its absurdity and delightfulness.
I do like how we started the book after the end of a revolution and the fall of our main character Dimitri as the Tsar of Novo-Svitsevo, but it did leave me feeling like I might have missed a prequel. I would have liked seeing more of his downfall in the course of the book, although we did see flashbacks and the result of his regime's downfall throughout the novel.
Overall this was a well done debut, and I enjoyed my time reading it. I really loved the author's note at the end of the novel as well, discussing her inspiration and hope for her readers as well, it resonated with me.
I would check the trigger warnings as it is quite dark and there is a lot that could be potentially triggering.
Thank you to Penguin Random House Canada and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I had a feeling, from the moment I first heard about this book, that I would love it. So, naturally, I procrastinated on reading it for several months despite quite literally attending its release party (and also chatting with the author several times--Laura is a lovely human!). And, surprising exactly nobody, I loved it.

This is one of a few books I've read recently that upends traditional fantasy structures by beginning after the "big battle" is over, as characters are attempting to bring themselves back from the rubble and recover from the traumatic events they experienced. This can be a difficult needle to thread, getting readers emotionally invested in characters whose most intense experiences are already in the past, and I wasn't sure at first if I'd grow attached to the three broken men at the heart of this tale--but I needn't have worried. Within a few chapters, I absolutely loved two of them and just wanted to give them hugs and tell them everything would be okay (and also to TALK ABOUT THEIR DARN FEELINGS), and while I hated Alexey, (a) he is objectively the villain of the story and deserves to be hated, and (b) it was a sort of fascinated dislike, where I didn't want him to succeed, but very much wanted to understand what was going on in his twisted mind. Even the side characters were endearing; I have a particular soft spot for the aroace bookworm Ladushka and the feisty cook/medic Mischa, both integral members of Dimitri's support system.

With that rambling on character development aside, here are a few other things I loved in this book (which you might, too):

- a Jewish-inspired world, where schisms within the country's faith map closely to actual past divisions within Judaism (Jewish mysticism, more orthodox beliefs, etc.), and where actual Hebrew prayers appear on-page
- a very good goat who must be protected at all costs
- a library that forces people to sacrifice items they value to gain access to arcane knowledge
- super queer-normative worldbuilding, as you may have already guessed, including demisexual, bi, gay, aroace, and nonbinary characters
- an unflinching look at the devastation of a civil war on both individuals and nations (the latter being likely informed by Laura's academic background in public policy, political psychology, and military effectiveness)
- a probing excavation of grief, mental illness, trauma, recovery, the rocky road to healing, and the power of hope, faith, and love
- normalized on-page use of antidepressant medication!!
- brutal, gruesome cruelty and aching tenderness in equal measure
- a really sweet love confession letter 🥺
- some cool demonic creatures, and also some downright horrifying ones
- a mental bond letting two characters communicate through dream magic
- honestly just a super wholesome queer found family dynamic, against the backdrop of a horrifying sociopolitical situation, emphasizing the importance of support systems

As a final warning, please check the trigger and content warnings for this book. In particular, be aware that it depicts an abusive relationship from the perspectives of both the victim AND the abuser. Take care of yourself, and make sure you read this one when you're in the right headspace to handle its content.

Tl;dr this book is unconventional in structure and pretty darn dark, but if you're willing to face the literal and emotional carnage, the payoff is absolutely worth it (but oh my, that epilogue has me quite anxious for the sequel now).

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Canada for providing an eARC copy in exchange for an honest review.

The Sins on Their Bones was a unique reading experience for me, and one that over time I think I will come to appreciate even more.

I found the pacing a little sluggish. Some of the scenes could have been more engaging, more eventful, especially in the early chapters. There were sections of dialogue that felt redundant/repetitive and sometimes I felt a character's actions or language didn't harmonise well with their identity. It did take me a little while to connect with this one. So be aware that this is a slow burn narrative but I think the payoff is well worth it.

Samotin's world-building is very tangible and she has stitched elements of her Jewish heritage into a beautiful and terrifying depiction of an Eastern European landscape under siege. Caught in its death throws, the people of Novo-Svitsevo struggle to carve out a place for themselves in ever narrowing gaps between stretches of war-torn farmland; their way of life endangered by a supernatural threat nobody could have prepared for. It is a brutal, harsh, and unforgiving setting, shrouded in melancholy and fear, but its people hold tightly to their traditions, to their duty to the living and their memory of the dead, and to their appreciation for what remains. Despite being saturated in loss, the narrative never feels without hope.

I struggle sometimes with sombre stories but Sins strikes a good balance between showing us the horrors of war and illuminating the resilience of human kind. The cast are lovable and easy to invest in, and their playful antics provide a respite from the intensity of what is happening both inside and around them.

I definitely recommend checking the content warnings for this one. It is dark. The cast are all at various stages of healing from trauma both in their interpersonal relationships and their exposure to acts of brutality on the battlefield. Samotin does not pull punches. The sex scenes are frequent and often uncomfortable to sit through, and there is a very interesting but equally disturbing discussion here about the dangers of domestic abuse in partnerships underlined by D/s dynamics (though to be clear, the author does not villainize D/s).

The magic system was fun and I enjoyed trying to place the elements that were directly inspired by Jewish mysticism. I recommend checking the author's notes at the back of the book for more context after or even before reading, as she speaks quite passionately about her goals with this part of the story.

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My rating system:
✧✧✧✧✧ - loved it, no complaints
✧✧✧✧ - loved it, some technical flaws
✧✧✧ - liked it
✧✧ - disappointing
✧ - unenjoyable

Incredibly healing to read a beautiful fantasy story that deals with grief in an incredibly Jewish Ashkenazi context. Deeply grateful to the author for this one. If you're looking for a Russian Jewish world, this is the one.

The Sins on Their Bones by Laura R. Samotin is a captivating blend of fantasy, romance, and spirituality that takes readers on a dark yet redemptive journey. From the very first page, the story grips you with its emotional intensity, unfolding as a heart-wrenching adventure that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Samotin masterfully weaves themes of agency, self-worth, and forgiveness, exploring the trauma of abuse and the difficult path toward healing. The novel is both painful and beautiful, breaking your heart only to slowly mend it, leaving you stronger for having endured the journey. The characters are deeply complex, and their struggles with forgiveness—both of others and themselves—add layers of depth to the narrative.

However, readers should be prepared for some darker, heavier scenes. I would highly recommend checking out the content warnings before diving in, as some of the more intense moments may catch you off guard. Despite these challenges, The Sins on Their Bones is ultimately a powerful and transformative read, one that delves into the depths of human resilience and the power of redemption.

In short, this book is an emotional rollercoaster that fans of fantasy with deep emotional stakes will not want to miss. It's a raw and rewarding experience that I wholeheartedly recommend.

I liked this book so much more than I thought I would (which really says something because the synopsis GRABBED me.) The Sins on their Bones is a queer, dark fantasy romance set in a world inspired by 19th century Russia. It portrays a type of love we don’t often see on page- the brutal, manipulative kind of love that tears you apart. If you like angst, then oh boy is this book for you. Despite the aforementioned soul crushing that was going on, the found family was a much needed bright light and I feel in love with the side characters and their quirks. It covers many heavy topics, so please be sure to read trigger warnings. If you feel you can handle them, I would absolutely recommend this book so you can experience the spectrum of emotion it brings with it. I loved every second and everything is crossed that this book isn’t a stand alone because I need more from that ending!

**Thank you to Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review**

This book really sneaks up on you. It has that eerie, heavy atmosphere that sticks long after you’ve finished. The world is rich, the magic system is super interesting (and kind of unsettling), and the whole thing just feels high-stakes in the best way. It does a great job making you feel the weight of every decision the characters make.

The the characters are messy, complicated, and constantly dealing with the fallout of their choices, which makes them feel really real. Some parts drag a little, and I wish certain relationships had been explored more, but overall, the slow build pays off.

If you like dark fantasy with necromancy, moral dilemmas, and a story that really makes you sit with it after, this one’s worth picking up.

I’ve even convinced a few friends to read this after it was published and they loved it.

Trigger warnings for this book! Spousal abuse, SA, Explicit content, drug and alcohol use, the list goes on. This book was just not my cup of tea at all!I DNF this book as it was just too heavy for me. Maybe I am just not cut out to be a fan of dark queer fantasy. There is so much gratuitous sex in this book and it was very repetitive! I'm no prude but it was just too much. It was boring and the characters did not have any redeemable qualities. Sorry for such a negative review but i honestly found it awful. There is a lot of Mysticism, folklore and mythology which is what drew me to the book however not an enjoyable read for me.

The Sins on Their Bones is one of those books that lingers in your mind long after you finish. I was initially drawn in by the premise—a queer fantasy inspired by Jewish folklore—but what truly captivated me was the depth of emotion, the rich character work, and the beautifully intricate storytelling. Told through three perspectives, this book explores love, betrayal, faith, and power. I was especially invested in Dimitri and Vasily, whose arcs pulled at my heart. The world-building is immersive, the magic feels weighty and real, and the stakes are high from beginning to end.

**Review of *A Darker Mischief* by Derek Milman**

*A Darker Mischief* is a gripping and twisted ride that blends dark magic, forbidden love, and intense political drama. The story follows Dimitri, the fallen Tzar, who’s been exiled after losing a civil war to his estranged husband, Alexey. But Alexey isn’t just any man—he’s now immortal, controlling dark magic, and calling himself a god. It’s up to Dimitri and his loyal spymaster, Vasily, to take him down.

The world-building is fascinating, with a cool mix of folklore and magic that feels both haunting and thrilling. The demons and magic Alexey controls add a creepy, high-stakes element to the story that keeps you on the edge of your seat. But what really makes this story stand out is the emotional conflict—Dimitri still loves Alexey, despite everything, and his struggle to reconcile that love with his desire to save his country is heartbreaking.

Vasily, the spymaster, is another highlight. He’s smart, resourceful, and loyal to Dimitri, but there’s an undeniable connection between them that makes their relationship all the more complicated. The tension between them and their moral dilemmas makes for a really emotional, intense read.

If you love stories with rich world-building, complicated characters, and a queer romance that pulls at your heartstrings, *A Darker Mischief* is totally worth the read. It's a dark, emotional, and action-packed journey that’ll leave you wanting more.

I thought this was very good and I will have to add this to the shop shelves. Thank you for the chance for us to review.

The Sins on Their Bones is a gripping and haunting tale that expertly weaves together mystery, dark secrets, and intense character dynamics. The central plot is engrossing, filled with twists and emotional depth that kept me hooked from start to finish. The protagonist’s internal struggle and personal journey are both compelling and relatable, making it easy to get emotionally invested in their story.

The writing is atmospheric, drawing you into a world full of tension and suspense. There’s a raw, almost unsettling quality to the narrative that makes the stakes feel incredibly high, and the way the book explores themes of guilt, redemption, and consequence adds a powerful layer to the plot.

Overall, The Sins on Their Bones is a well-executed, thought-provoking read that offers a mix of thriller and emotional drama. It’s a dark, absorbing story that sticks with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Loved this book. Super unique and intriguing. I just heard there will be a 2nd book and cannot wait to read it. Thank you for the opportunity to read this

This book was brutal and visceral, and while I hoped it would be a new favorite, it ended up being too much for me personally. However, I still intend to recommend it to people who are looking for brutal queer historical fantasy, and I hope to read more from Laura Samotin in the future.

The lore, the lore, the lore!!!!! What a story. The world building in this was top notch and super interesting. The characters were brilliant and the relationships throughout this book were so fascinating and heart wrenching. This book was a sucker punch of emotion and even in its darkest moments, it finds a light. This broke my heart into a thousand pieces and slowly put it back together. By the end, I was sad to say goodbye to these characters and this engaging story. Laura Samotin has gained a new loyal reader out of me!

This was grim dark fantasy done well! I really enjoyed it. There are many gothic elements to the story as well which I appreciated. I’ve never read anything like this before. The plot was intriguing, and the characters are what really sold this to me — they kept my interest until the very end! There’s a lot of exploration on important topics like grief, and the relationship between the main characters was so toxic and complex it had me HOOKED. This story had so many heart wrenching moments, I truly adored it. Highly recommend!

I absolutely loved this book! It's a dark fantasy with gothic elements, and I really liked the overall plot, it was intriguing and kept my interest throughout the whole book.
The most amazing thing to me was how the author was able to transcribe the raw emotions of the main characters. There was a lot of grief and pain, and I could feel it all alongside the characters. The relationship between Dimitri and Alexey was complicated. Even though, there is clearly a bad guy in this story, Alexey's actions cannot completely erase the love that Dimitri had for him, and he had to navigate the guilt of still loving the man who destroyed his life, while grieving the loss of his relationship and his home.
And then there's Vasily, whom Dimitri uses as a band-aid to his pain but doesn't care because he is so down bad for his Dima. I liked him a lot, and I liked his part in this story as a spy infiltrating Alexey's court.
The whole cast of characters was amazing, really. I enjoyed everything about this book and can't wait to see where this going!

Some interesting worldbuilding but did not really buy the central characters or central relationships. Feels a little underdone.

Im a huge fan of dark grim fantasy so that definitely was a plus, as well as queer normative worlds. However, when a book is advertised as a romantasy, the romance is the main portion of the book, the fantasy is underlying concepts or interwined with the romance. I found the lore to be amazing and interesting but the romance between the two characters felt really flat to me. And I struggled alot with the book because of it.

Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for sending me a copy of this book! All opinions are my own!

The absolute ANGST of this book. That's it. That's the review.

But seriously, I am an angst lover, and this hit all the right places. I love the way these characters show love for one another in the most painful of ways. Not only does this book show the beauty of love, but it also shows corrupted love and its dangers, and it does an amazing job of doing so.

The setting is an amazing one for this book, with vibes of Shadow and Bone/Six of Crows while giving a story full of loyalty, longing, pain, and power. It studies what power will do to the soul and how it can override everything - except love.

This is a book where you need to go in without any expectations, just let the story take you with it as it wills.

If you like Russian fantasy, queer longing, and all the angst possible, get your hands on this book.