For October 2026’s Fellowship selection, we wanted a fantasy that feels utterly immersive, the type we can cosy down with as the nights get darker and the Autumn chill sets in; a story where dangerous court politics and a truly original magic system combine to create something impossible to put down. The Court of Venus by Bel Banta is exactly that kind of novel, delivering a dazzling blend of historical inspiration, celestial magic, and deadly intrigue.
Set in the kingdom of Alvion, a world inspired by Tudor England where magicians have advised kings for centuries, The Court of Venus introduces a magical system unlike anything we've encountered before. Every magician is blessed by one of the seven planets, each granting extraordinary abilities, from speaking with the dead to reading the deepest desires of the living. But Bianca Mortlake is something altogether different. Born beneath a once-in-a-millennium celestial alignment, she becomes the first Moonborn magician in over a thousand years, a power so rare that even history has forgotten what it is capable of.
Raised far from the dangers of court alongside her infuriating childhood rival Roland, Bianca's quiet life is shattered when they are summoned back to the royal palace. There, amidst executions, shifting alliances, and ruthless ambition, the pair must navigate a court where every conversation hides a scheme and every wrong decision could be their last.
What makes The Court of Venus such an exciting Fellowship choice is the way it balances stunning world-building with irresistible character dynamics. Bel Banta has created a rich, atmospheric setting where astrology shapes destiny and the magic feels ancient and mysterious. Equal parts political fantasy, murder mystery, romance, and magical adventure, it's the sort of story that constantly rewards its reader.
As a debut, The Court of Venus already feels remarkably assured, earning praise from some of fantasy's biggest names for its lush prose, unforgettable magic system, and addictive storytelling. With echoes of Tudor history woven through an entirely original fantasy world, it captures everything we look for when searching for the best book for our Fellowship members: ambitious storytelling, memorable characters, and a setting you'll want to lose yourself.
For Fellowship members, we're delighted to present The Court of Venus as a highly limited exclusive edition: signed and numbered by Bel Banta, exclusive digitally sprayed edges, stunning constellation foiling on the boards and strictly limited to 2000 copies worldwide.
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Fellowship is more than a monthly book, it's a community built for readers who love fantasy and science fiction.
Created by Goldsboro Books, Fellowship brings together readers who want to discover the very best new speculative fiction while building a collection of beautiful, exclusive editions unavailable anywhere else. Every month our in-house SFF specialists carefully select a standout new release, then work with publishers to create a bespoke edition exclusively for Fellowship members.
As a member, you'll enjoy:
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An exclusive signed and numbered first edition every month, featuring unique customisations created especially for Fellowship.
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15% off purchases from Goldsboro Books.
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With only 2,000 memberships available, Fellowship remains an intimate community where every edition feels truly special. Whether you're looking to discover exciting new voices, collect beautifully produced books, or simply share your love of speculative fiction with fellow readers, Fellowship is designed to offer far more than a monthly delivery, it's a place to belong.
If you want to experience the very best fantasy before everyone else while building a collection unlike any other, we'd love to welcome you into the Fellowship.
