Are you aware that today is National Read a Book Day in the UK? As a publishing house, it’s safe to say that we all read plenty of books most days of the year! However, for today, we thought we’d share with you some of our current reads.

Below are the thoughts from Pegasus staff members on books that have recently drawn their attention - get ready for your TBR pile to grow a few more titles…

Connor, Publicity:

Very recently I took the plunge into Steven Erickson's Epic Fantasy Series "Malazan Book of the Fallen" with the first book Gardens of the Moon. 

Let me tell you. I have absolutely no idea what's going on, but I think that's a big part of this series' charm. You're dropped into a world with thousands of years of history, into the middle of what seems to be an ongoing story. Erickson does not hold your hand with this book, but that's not a bad thing. I find myself being drawn back to this story with so many questions that I want answers to, only to come away with even more questions.

Full of colourful, complex characters, magic, assassinations, war, living Gods and so much more! I can't wait to carry on with this series, and I've got NINE more books to read after this one.

David, Social Media:

I’ve just finished the fantastic debut from screenwriter turned author Moira Buffini - her new futuristic fantasy novel Songlight. 

I’d seen Faber’s announcement earlier this year (complete with a stunning front cover) and pre-ordered myself a copy immediately! What unfolds is a gorgeously cinematic and effortlessly readable adventure into a world that’s dystopian and twisted, but also full of wonder and exciting new characters to meet. Where certain fantasy books stick to the roots, staying grounded with someone at the bottom of society, Songlight shines with its expansive ambition. Lark and Nightingale are two standout stars I was more than happy to spend the book alongside.

I’m a little upset with myself for finishing the book so quickly, cause now I’ve got to wait an absolute age for the sequel, but that just gives me the excuse to read it again!

Fiona, Submissions:

Ok, so I’m late to the party with this one and I’m sure Romantasy fans will already have this under their belt, but, I am one of the lucky ones still on the first flick through of Sarah J Maas’ A Court of Thorn and Roses series.

Maas creates a magical land of fae, high lords and kingdoms which border the faerie-hating human world. A tragic human encounter with fae sees the main character whisked into the faerie lands where love, suspense and adventure follow. 

Maas is wonderfully descriptive and at times this can make the plot feel slow, but it sets the scene perfectly for the enthralling action which pursues. Plot twists are plenty, and when you think you have it all figured out, the story flips completely on its head!

Georgia, Publicity:

I'm waiting SO patiently for the third book of the Empyrean series. Usually I find January to be the most boring and longest month of the year, but with Onyx Storm coming, I think it'll fly by. I've always loved fantasy, but with romance, friendship and DRAGONS, these books have had me picking up fantasy over any other genre. I think I'll have to re-read the first two before the third book drops, to refresh my imagination.

Violet and Xaden are the most perfect enemies to lovers, and I'm so excited to see where their story leads. This is a no spoiler zone, so I won't get into it too much! I find if you're wondering if fantasy is for you, to definitely pick up Fourth Wing and give it a go.

Johnny, Publicity:

I’m currently reading the Energon Universe books from Skybound. These titles include stories from the Transformers, Void Rives, and G.I. Joe. 

The Transformers series is amazing on a whole other level: from the storytelling to the art, and the unique way of adding music of the original 1986 film into the book. 

Yeah, it really is that amazing.

Lauren, Publicity:

I have recently finished reading Hell Bent by Leigh Bardugo, the follow up to Ninth House. 

Set in the magical societies of Yale University, the series is the perfect dark academia fantasy. The world building was engaging, and the magic was so unique I found myself instantly immersed in the world. The attention to detail is incredible as she explores the history of Yale, tying this to the corrupting power of the magic the societies are vying for. 

While a lot of the fantasy genre shows magic as a gift, it is more of a curse throughout this story, with the occult rituals and rites being a gruesome experience for both the characters and the reader.

While Hell Bent struggled to hit the same notes as perfectly as Ninth House, there was still so much to enjoy, and I cannot wait for the next instalment. 

Suzie, Submissions:

It’s funny how certain books become ingrained in your memory, especially books from your childhood. Back then everything was fresh, new, and an exciting world of adventure laid out there within the pages of a book.

Enid Blyton’s series The Faraway Tree stands out as an all-time classic. Total escape and wonder.  I remember having a vivid idea of what the characters should look like, they weren’t anything like the illustrations in the book, but I kept to the images I had created in my mind. I don’t remember how many times I must have read those books.

Then The Waterbabies by Charles Kingsley, probably for different reasons, stays with me as it was an incredibly beautiful book, illustrated by Harry G Theaker and it just felt special and something to be treasured. It took pride of place on my bookshelf alongside Moonface, Silky and The Saucepan Man - and they remain there to this day.

Today, more than any other, should be the day you pick up that new book, that old classic or even your Kindle and read a couple chapters.

National Read a Book Day should be celebrated every day if Pegasus Publishers had any say in the matter!