I devoured this book, and it was delicious 👩🏼‍🍳💋

I fell in love with the characters of Otherworldly instantly. From Knox’s innate curiosity, generosity, and unabashed naivety to Ellery’s snark, Zara’s wisdom, and Charley’s creative use of nicknames. They were the perfect found family that provided a warm & cozy juxtaposition to this frigid world they lived in.

As the unlikely duo of Ellery and Knox embark on an action-packed adventure to stop the eternal winter and get answers to their burning questions, they melt into the most adorable lovers. With their innocence and inquisitiveness, they find common ground, and their belief in one another becomes unmatched.

I loved the nod to Hadestown with a hopeful and inspiring twist at the end.

This was my first book by F.T. Lukens, but it most certainly will not be my last!

As someone who thinks Spell Bound was Lukens' best work so far, I was thrilled to see another cozy fantasy come from them. And above all, I was incredibly pleased to see that a queer story involving a nonbinary character and a shapeshifter kept those two realms separate. I see it too often, a character who can change shape or appearance being the one outside of the gender binary, and while that's fine, it gets stale. It gets stale really fast. Characters, and people for that matter, don't need a reason to be nonbinary. So I was very happy to see the main character Ellery be quite normal and quite nonbinary. I think Spell Bound helped Lukens find really strong ground for writing nonbinary characters in meaningful but casual ways. It takes practice, I know from personal experience. The plot itself was fine, I found myself somewhat annoyed every time the shades appeared to cause problems because it was so enjoyable to simply see Knox try his hand at being human and getting to know Ellery. I wanted more fluff and less plot. I wanted this to be Aquamarine, the movie about the mermaid who only has a few days to learn to be human and make her crush fall in love with her or she's doomed back to the sea. Lukens, I know you already did In Deeper Waters, but please give me your take on Aquamarine. I enjoyed the world building. I liked the magic system. I wanted Knox and Ellery to realize what was going on. I loved the background and support characters. And the crow deity was a grumpy icon. We stan. We need more of these low stakes, high fluff, soft romances in the world. While I still preferred Spell Bound, I think Otherworldly is another banger that knocks it out of the park. Highly recommend.

OTHERWORLDLY has a lot of great things going for it - snowy settings, queer characters (including non-binary), magic and a budding romance between two unlikely leads. This book was so cute, especially when Knox was trying to live his best life in the real world. That sleepover scene made me audible gush and I enjoyed Charley and Zada because they emphasized the importance of platonic and familial love as well as romantic love. Found family will always get me and I think a lot of the themes in this story were important and relatable.

I was left a little underwhelmed by the romance and fantasy elements sadly. I found the story to be rather simple and felt that the ending was resolved too quickly. While I can forgive many things because it's YA, I've read enough good YA fantasy to know that the book could've gone further. That's not to say that this isn't enjoyable, because it is. I'd just consider this to be fluffy fantasy or light fantasy and that's perfectly fine. That cover is so darn gorgeous and I champion F.T. Luken because they always tell queer focused stories and I'm always here for that! Thanks to Simon and Schuster, Margaret K. McElderry Books and NetGalley for the ARC!

Thanks to netgalley for the ARC! I’m in a romance mode lately, and this one sounded like it might have some elements my students might like. Ellery finds themselves chin deep in some fantasy/gods and shades craziness, and they’ve never believed in it before. They’re forced to accept these things are real when faced with Knox (aka weird hot guy they and their cousin see at the diner all the time) who is a familiar from the other world. Next thing you know, a romance has developed and a bargain has been struck, making things tense and risky all around with hearts now on the line. So, this book had some tough things for me: I can handle fantasy but struggle when it seems like a big stretch of reality while still supposedly in “our world”(which at times this felt like it was), I struggle with romance when there doesn’t seem to be a ton of basis for it to be built upon (which I felt like at times this one was-so much feeling in such a short time?), and I really struggle when I can’t picture characters well (& this one was mostly on me because with a non-binary main character, I really wanted to be able to picture a girl or a boy-again, that’s on me). Now for the things I enjoyed: there’s some great characters in here with Ellery’s cousin and her girlfriend who are genuinely just good people (although it felt like they all of a sudden started calling each other pet names towards the end of the book??), there’s some nice action and adventure, and the romance does come off sweet even if it felt like it was built on flimsy grounds. I love seeing more diversity in books and the “love is love vibe” as these books were nonexistent when I was young. This book was pretty clean (some profanity and violence but just kissing), and the story was easy to follow. That being said, I would have liked to have seen the Queen and Otherworld fleshed out a little more as they seemed flat. It wasn’t one of my favorites, but it wasn’t a bad change from my normal read. Overall, I can see an audience for this novel, and I’m glad it read it. I just found myself not enjoying it as much at times and would’ve liked to have seen some changed to the things that bugged me.

Thank you Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing and NetGalley for providing this ARC.

Ellery moved to the big city to work in order to help her family as their farming business struggles to stay afloat during the five-year-long winter season. They pray to an absent harvest goddess while she resents them for it. Knox is a familiar from the Other World (the domain of the absent goddess) who helps humans with their bargains struck in the name of his Queen. Knox craves experiences outside of his duties and runs away only to run into Ellery who defends him from the beings who want to drag the familiar back home. In order to keep Knox from being taken against his will and to show him the ins and outs of being a human , Ellery agrees to strike a bargain with him in exchange for help to stop the long winter season. During the course of fulfilling their agreement an undeniable connection blooms from these two unlikely beings…

I’ve been excited about this book ever since the cover-reveal last year. This is my first read from this author and I was happy to get my hands on a copy for review. Reading Otherworldly on the coattails of books like A Daughter of Smoke & Bone and The Thorns Remain, reminded me of some aspects I really liked about those books; specifically the romance between two different beings and the magical worlds that exist next to the human world. Otherworldly burned brightly at the start but quickly fizzled out into a lackluster story. Not a bad one but it was one I didn’t expect. The description led me to believe it would be a higher stakes-slash-save the world kind of thing. But it’s actually an isolated incident and would have sorted itself out no matter who the characters were. If anything, this book helped me realize that these kinds of romances aren’t totally my thing.

However if you are in the mood for a cozy, heartwarming, laid-back story, then totally check out this book. The characters are sweet and their interactions are also sweet. I saw another review where the word “saccharine” was used and I think that perfectly encapsulates how it made me feel. After the inciting incident, I knew how the story was going to end because there was no other way for the story to end, if that makes sense.

I liked the mythology and folklore inspirations as well as the world building itself. You get to see different kinds of creatures and supernatural beings who live amongst human kind. I was surprised by the setting of the world. I didn’t expect it to take place in the present. I mean the cover has them in modern enough clothing, I could have guessed haha

Pacing was okay. While reading, I told a friend that I liked how each chapter jumped from scene to scene, not overstaying its welcome and moving on. But what started off as a pro ended up being a con. The pacing gave the illusion of “fast paced” but without some transitional scenes, chapters started with a new day. Once I caught on to that, it slowed down the pacing for me. There was an equal balance of romance build up and the dangers leaking in from the Other World… I can’t even say that it would have benefitted from tipping the scale from either side because it wasn’t trying to be anything but what it turned out to be. It was a story that storied; I don’t know what else to say!

I would like to read another one of Lukens’s books because I’ve seen other reviews say their stories are the same across the board. Now that I know what I’m walking into, I’ll read their work with altered expectations in mind.

I've been a fan of F.T. Lukens since I first read So This Is Ever After. I enjoyed the cozy storytelling style, and this new book does not disappoint! The initial story setup felt longer than in previous books, but by the time the story was underway, I was fully invested. The story is character driven with the plot working as a device to help the main characters grow as individuals and together.

"Otherworldly" follows Ellery, a skeptic, and a familiar named Knox. Both characters were lovable, but it's been a while since I connected with a character like I did Ellery. Due to a prolonged winter, they had to undertake adult responsibilities and make sacrifices to support their family. They lost their ability to slow down enough to have fun and believe in anything, including other people. I loved watching them evolve throughout the course of the story and the ending truly felt earned. Choice was a central theme, and it was illustrated so well in the journeys Ellery and Knox took! Not only was the romance comforting and sweet, but it was also a reminder of the importance of believing in something and choosing your own path. I do wish the ending was a bit longer as the last few pages felt rushed, but it was still a satisfying ending. This reinforced my opinion that Lukens is an automatic purchase!

Nonbeliever Ellery has a huge change of heart when they're suddenly thrust into a supernatural world they didn't know existed. Thanks to Knox, who is a familiar of a goddess visiting the human realm as part of a pact, El now has to contend with the fact that the abnormal winter plaguing the region is not a scientific phenomena, but a magical one. This book has a great setup and some really interesting worldbuilding, unfortunately, I felt like it wasn't explored enough and that the romance aspect was given more space in the plot. I was much more interested in the lore, which has a lot of Greek mythology influences, and was disappointed when a lot of it was kept vague. I did like the characters, they were fun and interesting, I particularly liked Charley and Zada. I do think at this point i'm beginning to see a trend in the main characters Lukens likes writing, but they manage to feel different every time, so i'm not complaining. The story was easy to follow and a fun, quick read, just lacking some depth I would've love to see.

This is my first Lukens read and I enjoyed it. The whimsical world was a so much fun. Found family, finding one self, and non binary representation was amazing.

Thank you to Netgallery for giving me an early release copy of Otherwordly by F.T Lukens, This book will be available for purchase on April 2nd of 2024.

I’ve been wanting to read Otherwordly ever since the cover and synopsis was revealed! The cover is absolutely beautiful, the artist did an amazing job, F.T Lukens writing was enjoyable, I usually find fantasy books a bit harder to read since the plots, world building, and magic systems are more complexed/hard to follow. Otherwordly was easy to follow, the writing was smooth, and not difficult to comprehend.The supernatural element/magic system didn’t seem over done/overused either.

I love the characters, Knox and Ellery our main couple was adorable, their interactions together were cute and I loved the scenes when they got protective of one another. The side characters were good too, Charley and Zada’s relationship was a nice addition to the story. My favorite side character however has be Bram, I’d love to see a story featuring more of him.

I do wish that Otherwordly was a little bit longer, we did get quite a few scenes of the main couple being cute together but I really would have liked a few more of them. I feel the story could have been just a little more descriptive, certain scenes in the Otherword realm, I couldn’t quite picture but maybe that’s just me. This one did take me longer to read but I did enjoy it nonetheless, I’ll definitely be reading more of F.T Lukens books in the future!

In F. T. Lukens' captivating novel, "Otherworldly," we are transported to a mystical realm where the boundaries between the natural and the supernatural collide. The story revolves around two remarkable individuals, Ellery and Knox, whose lives intertwine in a quest to unravel the mysteries of an endless winter and the very nature of existence. Ellery, a seventeen-year-old skeptic, resides in a region where belief in the paranormal is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric. Despite the lingering five-year winter, Ellery clings to scientific explanations, rejecting the tales of goddesses and divine interventions. She witnesses the hardship of her family, farmers struggling against the relentless cold, and questions the absence of these deities in their time of need. Knox, on the other hand, hails from the Other World, a realm of magic and wonder. He is a familiar, a mystical assistant dispatched to aid humans who have struck bargains at crossroads. However, the absence of communication from his queen for years has filled Knox with apprehension. Upon his imminent return home, he fears the unknown changes that might await him. Fate brings Ellery and Knox together in an unexpected encounter. When Knox is pursued by malevolent crossroads demons intent on capturing him, Ellery courageously intervenes and fends off his attackers. This encounter sparks a connection between them, a connection that will soon be entwined by an unbreakable bond. Ellery, still grappling with disbelief, struggles to comprehend the supernatural origins that Knox claims. Yet, she finds herself drawn to him, recognizing that he holds the key to unlocking the secrets behind the unending winter that grips their land. Desperate to save her family and restore their livelihood, Ellery agrees to form a crossroads bargain with Knox. As they embark on a perilous journey together, Ellery and Knox discover that the growing bond between them transcends the boundaries of mere acquaintance. Their shared experiences and unwavering determination to overcome the challenges that lie ahead forge a bond that may ultimately reshape their destinies and alter the fate of their world. "Otherworldly" by F. T. Lukens is a captivating tale that explores the profound intersections between faith, skepticism, and the indomitable bonds that can exist between individuals from vastly different realms. With its rich tapestry of characters, intricate world-building, and captivating plot, this novel promises an unforgettable reading experience that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in this enthralling series.

In this captivating read, the author masterfully weaves a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Through a blend of richly developed characters and a meticulously crafted plot, the book offers a unique exploration of its central themes, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the story's depth and complexity. The narrative is paced perfectly, balancing moments of intense action with thoughtful reflection, ensuring that readers are hooked from the first page to the last. The author's ability to evoke emotion and create a vivid, immersive world is truly remarkable, making this book a must-read for anyone looking for an exceptional literary experience.

Beyond its compelling storyline, the book stands out for its insightful commentary on the human condition, weaving philosophical questions into the fabric of its narrative. The author's skillful use of language not only enriches the text but also elevates the reader's experience, offering new perspectives on familiar themes. Whether it's the intricate dynamics of relationships, the exploration of identity, or the confrontation with ethical dilemmas, this book tackles complex issues with sensitivity and intelligence. It's a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the nuances of life, making it a valuable addition to any book lover's collection. Regardless of genre, this is a work that resonates on multiple levels, affirming the enduring impact of well-crafted literature.

It was not good. This was beyond disappointing. It felt childish and lacked substance. I am shocked Lukens wrote this. I've been a huge fan; rating many works 5 and 4 stars. These characters and the plot were all underdeveloped. The story was boring in many parts. I doubt they spent a lot of time writing this at all. The lack of effort is palpable.

Otherworldy is, ultimately, a love story, which, in the end, owes at least some of its inspiration to the legend of Orpheus. It is the story of Ellery, whose local area has experienced winter for 5 years, and Knox, a familiar of the goddess whose inattention to her minions has allowed that winter to persist. Ellery moved from their family's farm - suffering due to the enduring winter - to live with their cousin Charley and her girlfriend Zada. Knox - known then as "weird hot guy" - comes to the diner where Charley and Ellery work, but this time, he does more than pick up food; he is attacked by shades and saved by Ellery, who, until this point, did not believe in the deities that inhabit and influence their world. So begins an unlikely relationship between Ellery and Knox.

Ellery is 17; Knox is centuries old, but forgets his experiences every time he crosses over from the court of his queen, the goddess who created him to be a familiar - so his specific memories are limited to the five years he's been bound to the witch he was summoned to assist. Each of them is inexperienced in the world in general, and in relationships in particular, but as Ellery helps Knox escape further attacks by the shades, they begin to get to know each other. This is a story of first love that readers of all ages will enjoy.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Not my favorite Lukens book, but still a solid read. Ellery and Knox were pretty cool mains and Zada and Charley were excellent secondary characters. Tbh, the Orpheus and Euridyce ending made me enjoy it less than if the resolution was more novel. However, it was an enjoyable read with an interesting magic system.

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book. It was really cute and I really enjoyed it. If you're looking for a great cozy read then this is it. Otherworldly did not disappoint. The character and world-building were fun and engaging. I couldn't put it down.

Honestly. This is a DNF. I can notget past the language used in the story it does not make sense. It was way to confusing for me to read

I will never be over how a book about a town trapped in winter managed to warm my heart so much. This book was absolutely adorable and everything I have come to expect from F.T. Lukens. For starters, I loved the characters. Knox was such a fun person and I loved his bucket list of human teenage things to do. But Ellery was my favorite. They had such amazing development, learning to put themselves first and trust those around them. They also have so much love, kindness, grit, and determination in their heart. It was impossible not to adore them. Of course, the side characters were also fantastic, and I loved the weird little found family that was created over the course of the book. As for the plot, I found it a bit predictable because of how it follows a well known myth, but I still enjoyed the little moments along the way. The ending was almost perfect, with great resolution for Ellery and Knox. However, I wanted a bit more resolution for Ellery and their parents. But overall this book was absolutely adorable and I highly recommend it.

Every book I read by FT Lukens just confirms the fact that they are an auto-buy author for me. I could not put this down, and will absolutely be picking up a physical copy for my shelves when it comes out.

This story was more paranormal than their last few books, and was most similar to Spell Bound. I think if you liked Spell Bound, there would be a lot about this story that would work for you as well. I always love the found family element that this author puts in their books, and was probably my favourite part of this one as well.

I found that towards the end the story got a little bit rushed, I would have liked one more chapter between the last two. I really appreciated the dual POV and while I understand why it was just Ellery for a while, I missed having Knox’s POV at that time. Those reasons are why I’m giving this a 4 instead of a 5 but I still really adored this. Definitely would both reread this, and recommend it.

Thank you to the publisher & NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of this book! I voluntarily read this book, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Sort of a young adult version of Rachel Pollack's Unquenchable Fire novels with the snark of Luken's The Rules books with a smidge of Holly Black. In other words, it's weird and lots of fun.

I would define this book as a sweet, cozy romance.

Ellery, Charley and Zada are all living in world stuck in perpetual winter for the last 5 years, the latter taking Ellery in while they try to earn money to help their family back on their farm. Ellery doesn't believe in the supernatural. Until they meet Knox, a familiar on the run after a deal gone poorly.

I was so happy that Ellery was non binary, which is not common in many romances. Knox is sweet and naive and just really wants the human experience. The mutual pining between these two is *chefs kiss* and they are so gentile and adorable together.

I love two that side characters are well written and have stories of their own. I enjoy that the magic system isn't necessarily easy but not overly complicated in the story.

This was a perfect winter read and left me feeling all warm and fuzzy.

Thank you NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing for the ARC.