This was my first book by FT Lukens, even if I do own almost all their other books (you have to excuse me, I buy books when I am depressed), and I was really worried that I might not like it. Thank the gods and goddesses that was not the case.

The book does start a bit slow and I struggled to get into the setting, I think it was in part because I was under the impression that this story takes place in our world but based on how cool certain characters were with nymphs and magic I am going to assume it´s a slightly different universe.

My favorite parts were the characters, both Knox with his child-like excitement for the human world, and Ellery with their no-nonsense personality, were relatable and lovable. Charley and Zada are an amazing duo and really manage to prove once again that queer people just stick together! A queer found family never fails to impress me!!

At the end of the day, this is a cozy read, perfect to make your heart warm and fuzzy with kicking-my-feet romance, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an easy fun read!

First off, I just love the artwork for FT Lukens books. They catch my attention very easily and are so magical that I want to read them even without knowing what the story is about. Otherworldly has a great cover and the story is super sweet and fun to read as well. You have Ellery, a hard worker that had to grow up super fast to help take care of their parents and their farm when the never ending winter started. Despite the unnatural winter, Ellery is very much unbelieving of another realm and supernatural creatures in their corner of the world. The cuteness starts up when they run into (literally) a magical cute weird hot guy who also happens to be a familiar on the run from some nasty shades. You get the awkward sweet scenes interspersed with trying to figure out how to end winter and help Knox (the familiar) to finish his bucket list aka bargain he made with Ellery so that he could stay longer in the fascinating human world. You meet other magical creatures on this journey plus hang out with Ellery's awesome cousin Charley (love that name!) and her girl friend, Zada.

If you want an entertaining sweet love of a read with a bit of sadness but also a happy happy ending, and lots of magic and snow (I got so cold reading about this never ending winter!), you will have fun reading this book!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an advance copy of the book to read and review.

the coziest book about two boys falling in love in the most hilarious ways <3

i have loved every book by f.t lukens so far, they always are so fun and so cute to read, and this was no disappointment!

this book was so wholesome and cozy, the type you sit in your comfy reading corner while having your favorite drink. the world building was well done, and as usual the writing was so light and a delight to read.

the characters (always my favorite part of ft lukens books) were hilarious! we have one guy who is so grumpy and acts like he's allergic to fun, then the other guy who's so fascinated by everything human. their dynamic was hilarious to read; knox was definitely my favorite he was so flirty it had me dying. the cousin and her girlfriend were also soooo cute!!

and of course, the representation. i loved how casual everything was; there was no questioning or arguments over anything. one of the main characters uses they/them pronouns, and throughout the book it was like an already established fact that no one questioned. very refreshing.

overall, i highly recommend this book! it's an adorable ya romance about two books mixed with some magic and supernatural.

This book follows the magical adventures of Ellery and Knox, as they try to figure out the mystery behind their town’s endless winter.

I loved the queer friend group aspects and that none of the parental relationships were strained (related to gender or sexuality.) In fact, in this world gender and sexuality seem to be accepted without question.

There were some heavier topics than I’m used to in F T Lukens books. A fair bit more violence, including attempted assault, and dealing with death and the grief of death.

The characters were sweet and believable, but for some reason the romance didn’t hook me as much as past books. I actually would have preferred if it was a queer platonic pairing in the end - but still very enjoyable to read!

Representation: 5
Emotion: 3
Characters: 4
Plot: 3
Pacing: 2
Romance: 5

Overall Score: 4

Really, the first two thirds of the book was a 3, the last third of the book was a 5. The majority is kind of a slog, with a lot of mundane moments being lingered over until I was yawning half the time. I understand that Knox wanted to experience human life, and sometimes that's as simple as a slumber party, but it's not really the interesting part of the story.

But that Third Act was amazing. Lots of little things that were built upon in the first two acts proved to be important and combined together for an engaging, emotional climax.

Ellery and Knox were a cute, sweet couple, and I loved Charley and Zada as an established couple. The only thing I would complain about with the characters is that sometimes Charley's "weirdness" was just kind of being loud? But the characters would declare her "so weird" all the time.

Overall, I think it's a good cozy fantasy read, but not my favorite Lukens.

my last f.t. lukens was a dud, so i was ecstatic that this is my favorite of their works so far. the whole cast of characters ended up being very dear to me! i didnt really like ellery at first, but i appreciated their curmudgeonly loveableness by the end. knox was also so precious. their romance felt so wonderful. the last 50% of this was especially compelling, and the last 25% was soooo emotional. like when he saw them in the other world and didn’t remember them but knew they were special was just such a perfect moment. the last chapter was very sweet. super solid ending.

BOOK REVIEW - OTHERWORLDLY by F.T. Lukens

⭐⭐⭐⭐✨- Rounded Up - Available 2 April 2024

Thank you to NetGalley, Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing, and F.T. Lukens for providing me with an eARC copy of Otherworldly to review.

I might be biased because this is the third novel by F.T. Lukens that I have read, and I haven't been disappointed yet. A friend from my book club expressed their appreciation for F.T. Lukens's universes, stating that it's refreshing to have non-binary characters coexist in a world without their non-binaryness being the center of the story. Otherworldly continues to deliver on this.

Ellery is my favorite character, the grumpy one in contrast to Knox's sunshine, the grouchy morning person to Knox's perpetual wakefulness, and the skeptic of Knox's existence.

The supporting characters in this story are exceptional. I would support any calls for a stand-alone novel about Charley and Zaba, as they are an absolute blast! But our team of ragtag gods is nicely done too.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Despite being extremely busy lately, it made me set aside time to read instead of letting other tasks interfere with my reading time.

F.T. Lukens can do no wrong. This is just as enchanting as their other books.

I love the dedication F.T. Lukens has to presenting non-binary characters in an ordinary way. Ellery's gender is never a topic of conversation in the books, but it is so refreshing to have just a great ya fantasy plot with a non-binary lead!

The world building is super subtle in a beautiful way. We learn enough to understand how this world is different from our world, but it isn't central to the plot. There is an eternal winter and fairies and a mysterious goddess that many people pray to. And a general knowledge that there is this 'otherworld' which presents a bit like purgatory or even hell. I want to know more about this world and spend more time in it, but don't feel like I was missing anything as part of Ellery and Knox's journey.

Knox and Ellery are both learning what it is to enjoy life from two totally different perspectives while helping and supporting each other. It had big grumpy/sunshine vibes. While the story was not too heavy, it did get pretty intense towards the end, I could not put it down. Charley and Zada make a great found family for Ellery and Knox, and even Arabelle in her own way. I always enjoy when the importance of friendship is highlighted, especially in ya novels - it's not all about the romance!

Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!

Ellery doesn't believe in the supernatural, but their family believes the answer to ending the winter that's been plaguing the area for the last five years is praying to ta goddess and leaving offerings for her. Ellery knows this isn't working, so they take a job in a nearby city to send money back to their family, who are farmers. They live with their cousin, Charley, and her girlfriend Zada, and work at a nearby diner as a dishwasher. One night while closing up, the Hot Weird Guy that visits the diner frequently comes running into the alley barefoot (in the cold!!) with three men chasing him. Ellery inadvertently saves the Hot Weird Guy, who reveals he's not a human and the three things chasing him weren't human. Ellery, a nonbeliever, is annoyed with Knox's lying, but he's clearly in trouble and offers to help him. Ellery soon discovers that Knox wasn't lying, and there are a ton of supernatural forces at work. Knox and Ellery make a deal that he'll help them figure out how to end the magical winter, and they'll keep him tethered to the human realm and help him have human experiences.

I haven't read YA in a while, so it was a little bit of an adjustment for me. However, the characters in this book were so fun and lovable, and the plot was very interesting, and it was a fun mix of magic and mythology. The pacing seemed a little rushed at the end, but I will definitely be recommending this book during Readers' Advisory.

Absolutely adored this book! It was super cozy and fun. It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy. I can’t wait to purchase the actual book. I will definitely read again and again. Truly a great ya story.

Thanks NetGalley for the arc

FT Lukens managed to write another cute and fun YA urban fantasy with lovable characters you root for!
There was little angst, the romance was very sweet and the side characters made you want to be part of their family.
I personally would have loved a little more time spend between Ellery and Knox, to made me really believe they fell that hard in love. Other than that it was an absolute easy read with very cool world building.

BOOK REVIEW
✨️Otherworldly by: F.T. Lukens✨️
Publication Date: April 2, 2024
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A supernatural book with gods and goddesses, magic and a hot weird guy. I always love a good magical book. It's a young adult novel with a sweet love between a human girl and a familiar who wants to experience human life. I would agree on the book being cozy and heartwarming. I was kind of stressed, not going to lie, going into this book because I still enjoyed a good love story between the two main characters.
There were some part where the storyline felt slow for me but it gets pick up and is fast pace reading. I really enjoy the world built in this book and the characters, especially Knox. LOVE KNOX!
I still love a good YA book though.
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⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
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Thank you to Netgalley for giving me this opportunity to enjoy this book!
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Venturing into F.T. Lukens' latest offering, "Otherwordly," I found myself immersed in a delightful YA fantasy romance that deftly combines elements of the supernatural with the complexities of human emotion. The story follows Ellery, a skeptic thrust into a world of magic and mystery when they encounter Knox, a supernatural being seeking to make a crossroads deal. As they navigate the intricacies of their unlikely partnership, sparks fly, and a tender romance blossoms amidst the chaos.

The premise of "Otherwordly" is undeniably engaging, offering a fresh take on the familiar trope of a human and supernatural being forming an unlikely bond. The crossroads deal adds an element of suspense and urgency to the narrative, propelling the story forward with each twist and turn.

Told from the alternating perspectives of Ellery and Knox, the novel shines brightest when focusing on the latter. Knox emerges as a vibrant and charismatic character, brimming with energy and optimism. His journey of self-discovery and longing to experience humanity is both heartwarming and compelling, drawing readers into his world with ease.

However, where Knox shines, Ellery falls short. As the skeptical counterpart to Knox's supernatural being, Ellery's reluctance to embrace the magic around them often verges on annoyance. Their constant melancholy and resistance to experiencing joy dampen the overall tone of the story, making it difficult to fully connect with their character until the climax of the narrative.

Despite this, Lukens' skillful storytelling and engaging premise carry the novel forward, offering moments of suspense, humor, and heartfelt emotion. The supporting cast of characters adds depth and texture to the story, enriching the world in which Ellery and Knox navigate their burgeoning romance.

While Ellery may falter at times, the strength of Knox's character and the allure of the supernatural world they inhabit make for an enjoyable read.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.

3.5 stars

Otherworldly is a Queer YA fantasy by author FT Lukens. A magical story between a familiar and the human who helps him experience the world.

I think this is a case of it's me, not the book, I am a huge mood reader. This one had trouble holding my focus. During all the knocking items off Knox's wishlist my mind would wonder and I was waiting for the plot to move along. Otherwise, I really did enjoy all the characters in the book. From the core characters to the side characters they meet along the way. The world building was solid too, so I can't pinpoint why I struggled. The romance between Knox and Ellery is sweet and innocent. The conclusion to the story arc fully satisfying.

Overall, Otherworldly by FT Lukens is an enjoyable Queer YA Fantasy filled with a never ending winter, gods and goddesses, magic, danger, trust, friendships, found family, and a HEA.

Simply fantastic! Otherworldly and touching! This book really speaks to the heart and soul.

From the start I was swept in this fantasy tale that blends mythology, romance, and adventure seamlessly into this exciting story.

The characters were so fun, real, and easy to root for and love. Ellery was a skeptical, compassionate young adult who was selfless and sincere. I enjoyed their journey and growth throughout the story.
Knox was otherworldly, fun, innocent in ways, and such as easy character to like.
Their relationship was slow building, heartfelt, and sweet.

The side characters were each full of personality and enjoyable to read.
I loved the banter, the slow burn, the adventure and most importantly the love between the various characters.

The world and mythology was interesting full of gods, goddesses, shades, and various creatures. I liked the blend of mythology to create this unique and entrancing world.

Tropes I enjoyed here are:

- Unique mythology
- Magic
- Gods/goddesses
- LGBTQIA representation
- Hurt/comfort
- Amnesia
- Quest adventure
- Slow-burn
- ‘Fight for you’
- Love that doesn’t forget
- Found family
- Banter
- On the run
- First love

This author really knows how to write cute teen romances with a touch of magic that make me say awwwww 🥺

This was very sweet, and I did indeed say awwwww multiple times! I felt for both Knox and Ellery individually. Knox felt abandoned and alone and just wanted a chance to stay in our realm longer and experience human things. Ellery was a normal human with human problems, struggling with having to grow up faster because of circumstances but still trying to help their parents through the never-ending winter plaguing their part of the world. And together, Knox and Ellery had such cute moments and feelings.

There was also really sweet family and friendship in the story. Ellery lives with their cousin and cousin’s partner, both of whom are kind and supportive of Ellery, and of Knox once he came into the picture. There were a couple other characters who ended up helping as well, even if some did so a little more begrudgingly than the others. But I liked them all, even the one I was maybe not supposed to 😅

The queer rep was lovely! And so casual, never questioned or explained. Ellery uses they/them pronouns (potentially nonbinary, but no label is stated). Ellery’s cousin and partner are a f/f couple.

The supernatural elements of the story were fun with a mix of ideas from different magical things, afterlife beliefs, etc. that made it feel unique. A familiar, but not the kind you’re used to seeing; a liminal being who provides magical assistance and moves between worlds but forgets his time on Earth each time he goes back. Creepy shades who make deals at crossroads. An afterlife realm with lots of Greek myth inspiration, some scary creatures, and a queen. A few other supernaturals sprinkled throughout.

The story had some intense, action-filled moments, but overall it had a pretty light and chill vibe.

Overall, this had supernaturals, some intense scenes but mostly chill vibes, and, most of all, cute friendship and romance that made me smile!

I remember Colored Pages running a tour for F.T. Luken’s Spell Bound, but I didn’t make that tour. So, when they came out with this tour, I jumped at it!

The story starts with a deal you don’t realize would be as dangerous but important to the outcome. This is when we meet Knox, and I absolutely adore him. As mentioned in the synopsis, Knox is a familiar and has been in this world for five years, coincidentally the same amount of time this world has experienced winter. Ellery moved to the city to live with their cousin and their cousin’s girlfriend. There were multiple reasons for the move, but it has them crossing paths with Knox, who needs their help.

You meet some secondary characters who will have you laughing and wondering what comes next. Some characters become helpful toward the end, even if some are reluctant. However, it showed the power of friendship and family. Seeing Ellery choose themselves for the first time was one of my favorite parts.

I loved the representation, everything about Ellery, and the fact that I may identify more with them than I thought I would. Her cousin is in an epically adorable F/F relationship. Although Ellery doesn’t use a label, everyone uses their pronouns throughout the book.

The fantasy elements throughout the book are more mythical than your typical fantasy. I would have loved more of it, but this was still enjoyable. This was a delightful and fun YA story, and I was so happy and excited to be on this tour.

Thank you NetGalley, Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing, and FT Lukens for an e-arc of Otherworldly.

This is my fourth FT Lukens book and just like the others I absolutely loved it. Lukens does such a wonderful job creating queernormative worlds that just feel like a warm cozy hug. When I want something that’s cozy but also has some stakes and of course wonderful found family vibes I pick up a FT Lukens book.

Otherworldly follows this formula with a new adventure following Ellery (they/them), a human skeptic living in a world of believers and Knox (he/him) a familiar working for the goddess of the Other World as they strike a bargain to help stop and unending winter where Ellery lives, meeting other supernatural characters along the way.

I loved both Ellery and Knox, their dynamic together and their individual plot lines, especially them learning and fighting for what they want in their lives. Knox was adorable and is one of my favorite Lukens characters to date. I also really loved the secondary characters Ellery’s cousin Charley and her girlfriend Zada. Their dynamic together was just so wholesome and the support they provide to Ellery and Knox was wonderful. I was smiling and laughing throughout most of the book and had such a fun time reading it.

Otherworldly I felt had some higher stakes than previous Lukens books such as So This is Ever After and Spell Bound but it still maintained the coziness that I’ve come to expect from their books. In fact the higher stakes had me cheering on our protagonist and had me crying at certain parts.

I will also state that this book may not appeal to everyone. This book is heavy on found family and is more slice of life than epic fantasy with let’s say medium stakes in the plot. So if you’re looking for a book that leans more into the epic fantasy category then this may not be for you.
But if you are looking for a cute cozy time then try picking this one up. And if you are already a fan of FT Lukens work then you won’t be disappointed.

Now I know this is going to be hard to believe, but this was my first FT Lukens book! I have several of their books on my shelves / tbr and I’ve been dying to read their work. And let me tell you: they did not disappoint.

Otherworldly is a fantasy action / adventure / romance book set in modern day, in a region where most people are believers of the supernatural. Well… most people except Ellery. Ellery is a 17-year-old non-believer whose home has been stuck in a winter that has lasted 5 years. Ellery’s family’s farm is suffering as a result and Ellery moves to the city to live and work with their cousin in order to send money home. It’s at work that Ellery is captivated by “hot weird guy”, who has mesmerizing gold eyes, always seems happy, and never appears affected by the harsh elements outside.

Otherworldly was a grump / sunshine masterpiece and even though Ellery was the grump, you couldn’t help but adore them. I really loved how this enby character was written in such a strong and brave way. Knox was a sweet little cinnamon roll and I was a puddle watching him embrace his found family. Ellery and Knox beautifully complimented one another and made such a great team. I was also obsessed with Ellery’s snarky and fiercely loyal cousin, Charley, and her girlfriend, Zada. Charlada endgame and you can’t convince me otherwise. Other things I loved about this book include the worldbuilding, the magic, and the badass mythical characters.

Thank you so much to Simon Teen and NetGalley for the chance to review this eARC.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this story.
SPOILERS TO FOLLOW

I've only read one book by F.T Lukens "Spell Bound" and absolutely loved it. when I heard of this story I was really excited too. The idea of a paranormal boyfriend sounded like fun, as well as the endless winter. But while I did enjoy watching Ellery and Knox fall in love, I didn't enjoy the story as much as I'd hoped. I think I expected Knox and Ellery to be together for the entire story, fighting the shades and trying to find a way to stop the long winter. I also expected the goddess of death to be a little bit nicer ?? I guess. Not sure why because any god/goddess of death is never happy when people thwart death. I also really enjoyed Charley and Zada, they were fun characters.

The joy and fun I had while reading "Spell Bound" though didn't come to me in the same way with this story. I think it might be partly because Ellery was a very grumpy person. (Sun, from "Spell Bound", was grumpy too but they were also really funny). Which isn't to say that Ellery wasn't funny because they could be at times! I think that I just really loved Sun and Rook together. The situations they would get into was hilarious. This story was a bit more serious since Ellery and Knox were constantly being attacked or accosted by creatures/gods/goddesses from the Other World. Which was a really cool part, seeing all the kinds of beings they interacted with that were part of the Other World.

I think some of the best parts though was when Ellery was traveling through the Other World trying to reach Knox and the palace. I knew as soon as they made the decision to go to the Other World that there would be a Orpheus and Eurydice "Don't look back" plot happening. And I was right! Honestly, I could not be Ellery. I would have turned around because I would have been so scared lol. Anyways, I know this is probably an old draft of the book as I think the actual length of the book is a lot longer. Knox, at the end, talks about stopping somewhere first to talk to someone about wanting to return to the human realm and... he never said who he talked too. I'm assuming it was Arabelle? But I can't be sure. Maybe in the finished version of the story it's talked about more.

I'm probably still going to buy a physical copy of this story so I can find out.