Maeve was so easy to connect with! Not the picture perfect heroine but more of a loner who cares about her goals and not much else. Shes driven to find out answers and doesn’t care what rules she needs to break to reach them.

Tristan was a fun character. And such a great counterpart for her. He’s very secretive, stubborn and has a whole haunted vibe to him.

The magic system was so unique! I loved how refreshing it was to not read another story that has the same things as the next fantasy book!

This book was fantastic in every detail, from the unique magic system and world-building to the slow burn romance and yearning with an added level of mystery, dangerous scribings and newfound friendships.

If you are a fan of a darker academic setting, hidden pasts and the journey to discover what lies beneath layers of buried history, magic that feels fresh, Edwardian inspired setting, *almost kisses* and characters that stick to you long after you close the book!

Finding solid good young adult fantasy in this age is so hard. I stumbled upon this and just from the description of Tristan, I knew I would like this, I'm not even going to lie and say it was the intricate magic system that beguiled me! Not to say it wasn't a crucial, perfectly thought-out and executed part of the book. Scriptomancy was a unique take on magic and writing power. It did confuse me for a bit but that only solidfies it as strong world-building in my books. If it's too easy to digest, it's lacking something.

Tristan did not disappoint. He was the exact surly, sarcastic guy I had in mind. New fave hero alert! On that note, Maeve did not let me down either. I love heroines who can lie with their whole chest, and do. She was an expert liar with a slight conscience, of course, but not enough to turn her into self-pitying, sorry-state main character who refuses to lie and steal. She was grounded and fun while being serious. She was the highlight of the book.

Emily J. Taylor is a new author to me, one who I will be keeping an eye on for future releases, and so should you.

There's nothing inherently wrong with this book, it just completely failed to interest me at any point. Maybe because I never got to know anything about the characters? I know Maeve has rust-red hair and Tristan has dark hair (I think?) and glasses. I don't know what Nan looks like, or Shae, or anyone else in the book. We learn nothing about their likes, dislikes, etcetera except that Maeve doesn't get along with horses and Tristan likes music. At once it feels very hasty and at the same time like nothing's happening. Maybe I'm just the wrong audience?

The Otherwhere Post is a fun, fast-paced YA fantasy full of magic and adventure. I enjoyed the characters, pacing, and magic system. I was hoping to see more of the additional worlds, but it does leave room for Emily Taylor to create a series in the future.

I received an ARC from PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I was very excited when I was approved for an ARC of The Otherwhere Post as I had read Hotel Magnifique and thought it was a very underrated book. The world building and character work was fantastic. I think I went into this book with very high expectations and it disappointed me a bit. It was a very very slow burn with lots of lyrical and descriptive writing. I wanted more from it and again, I think that is because I had high expectations. I do see why people are loving this book but I wanted more plot and higher stakes. I do recommend if you love slow burn murder mysteries set in a fantasy world. I will be picking up the next book Emily J. Taylor writes.

Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Group for an e-arc of The Otherwhere Post by Emily J Taylor.

Maeve Abenthy never gives out her real name and for good reason; the entire world knows her father doomed another to death and destruction when he released the Aldervine, a ferocious plant that kills. That day the door to travel between worlds was burned, leaving people trapped whatever world they were in. At least that’s what everyone thinks - including Maeve - but one day she receives an anonymous letter saying her father wasn’t the one who did it. Now Maeve is looking for answers and is determined to find the truth about what really happened. However, this requires her to fake her way into the scriptomancy academy in order to get answers.

This was my first book by Emily J Taylor and throughly enjoyed it. It’s older YA and while I’ve had a hard time with YA as of late, I must say this was a delightful read!

It’s an academic fantasy and I really enjoyed the magic system of scriptomancy, where people are able to use writing and inks to imbue the world with magic. There are different factions within this system and we learn more about each one as Maeve delves deeper into the world. Although she does have some experience that she gathered from her father, back before everything changed.

I really enjoyed the mystery along the way and how everything plays out, such as who and what roles everyone played in that fateful day so many years ago. Maeve also has good character development in the book even if I was yelling at her to trust people. It’s understandable why she has trust issues though. Her blooming romance with Tristan was sweet to see - two souls trying to navigate life after traumatic events and somehow find each other.

We don’t learn much about the other worlds that are connected in and honestly I would have loved to learn more about them - but that’s just me since I love parallel universes. I’m just saying if some other interconnected books came out I wouldn’t be mad. Haha

If you’re looking for an academic fantasy filled with intrigue, scheming, mystery and a bit of romance - then pick this up!

I originally read Hotel Magnifique and fell in love with the magic that Emily wrote, after that I knew I would need more of her writing! The Otherwhere Post is just as exciting and beautifully written but a whole new world of magic.

It was easy to get swept up in the world building and cast of characters. Of course you also get some cringy dialogue, but that comes with the territory of new romance.

Overall a fun read and I look forward to seeing more of her work!

4.25 stars!

The worldbuilding in here is fantastic! It’s so well thought out, truly. I was engaged the entire time.

Maeve hasn’t been able to use her real name in years, thanks to her missing/presumed dead father. When she receives a letter indicating that he might be innocent, Maeve uses her wits to investigate the claim and enrolls in a coveted school to do so. The art of scriptomancy is thoroughly explained, and it’s quite fascinating. There’s a little bit of romance, too, if you like that sort of thing.

In short, I loved the story and highly recommend it!

“The Otherwhere Post” follows Maeve as she attempts to infiltrate the magical Otherwhere Post by posing as an apprentice to find out who sent her a mysterious letter, and in the process unravel the mystery surrounding what happened to her father years before. Her plans are complicated by her noisy mentor, Tristian, a handsome boy with a mysterious past.

I can’t even begin to explain how much I absolutely LOVED this book. “The Otherwhere Post” has it all - great world building, a unique magic system, fantastic characters, a compelling mystery, beautiful writing, and a swoon worthy romance. Maeve was a great main character- I loved her character arc, her relationship with Tristan and Nan, her back story, and her prickly, self reliant personality. Everything about her was perfect.

And Tristan has set the book boyfriend bar to a new high! I loved that he never gave up on Maeve but still respected her boundaries. I also loved watching him work through his trauma and to learn and grow and trust himself again.

I also just loved the setting! The candlelit/gaslight vibes were impeccable - there’s just something about a town by the sea in the autumn that hits all of the right spots for me. I really want to explore the Otherwhere Post campus and all three cities of Gloam. The setting felt so real - like one could just walk right in and explore.

The magic system was also incredibly fascinating. I read a lot of fantasy and the concept of scriptomancy was a really fresh and unique take on magic. I do wish that there had been a bit more exploration of what scritpomancy entailed and what it could do. But I think I’m also just greedy for anything more in this world!

Finally, the writing was absolutely gorgeous. Emily J. Taylor’s prose draws the reader right into the story and doesn’t let one go. “The Otherwhere Post” is a fascinating meditation on the power inherent in the act of writing. And I definitely want a quill pen and a new journal now.

Again, I can’t recommend “The Otherwhere Post” enough. This will definitely be one of the best books I’ll read this year and it very well might be a new lifetime favorite. I honestly can’t stop thinking about how amazing this book was. I am fairly sure this was a stand alone novel but I’m holding out hope that Taylor returns to this world in the future and gives us the continuing adventures of Maeve, Tristian, and Nan. Regardless, I will be eagerly checking out Taylor’s other works and anxiously awaiting anything else she writes.

Thanks so much to NetGalley and G. P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to the publisher, Penguin Teen Canada, and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

For the last seven years, Maeve Abenthy has lived under a false name, constantly on the move so as to prevent anyone from connecting her with her father, who was accused of a terrible crime. But when she receives a mysterious letter that claims her father was innocent, she is determined to uncover the truth. And the only way to do that is to learn scriptomancy, the magic that allows couriers to travel between worlds. Maeve impersonates an apprentice for the Otherwhere Post to learn this art. But looking into the past of such an infamous person as her father is drawing more attention than she expected, her mentor Tristan has already figured out that she isn’t who she claims to be, and worst of all, someone knows who she is and is sending threatening – and increasingly deadly – letters to warn her off this investigation.

I read Hotel Magnifique by this author a couple of years ago and I found it kind of a struggle to get through, so I was a bit nervous about this one, but with such a fascinating premise, I couldn’t pass it up!

I absolutely loved the world building! It was fantasy with plenty of dark academia and a touch of mystery. The concept of scriptomancy which was basically the magic system, and its wide reaching capabilities were fascinating, especially the ability to create portals between worlds. There was a good amount of information and backstory shared without it ever feeling like an info dump, in this aspect anyway.

However, I would have liked to see the scriptomancy itself in more detail. There was plenty about what it could do, but the how was never really explained and the story left things rather vague on that front. I would understand if this was the first book in a series and it’s intended to be developed more, but all indications are that this is a standalone.

The mystery arc was handled pretty well too, there were lots of twists and plenty of false leads and red herrings, which made it interesting. I didn’t manage to guess it until close to the end.

This book was a fast paced, easy read and I was completely hooked right from the beginning. There was a little more violence than I would expect to see in a YA novel, but nothing too bad.

Maeve was pretty much your typical teen protagonist, likeable but a tad too impulsive, which made me frustrated with her character occasionally as she ran off to follow a lead with no plan whatsoever yet again. That said, her arc was well written with pretty much zero angst (which I really appreciated).

I felt there was a bit too much going on in those last few chapters, and though there was an appropriate build up for it, it was difficult to keep track of all at the same time. Nonetheless, there were some shocking last minute twists that were excellently written and the story wrapped up all the arcs in a satisfying manner.

Overall, The Otherwhere Post was an entertaining read, and I would highly recommend it to readers of all ages. I’m really looking forward to seeing what this author will write next!

This was my first experience with Emily J. Taylor’s writing and I was not disappointed. I loved the dark academia vibes and the fantasy elements that made this book feel very atmospheric and immersive. The characters were interesting and my younger self could relate to Maeve and some of her impulsivity and gutsy actions. The plot was interesting and I never felt bored or as if my attention was straying away from the book. There’s a bit of a slow burn romance side plot going on also which creates extra interest in this story. The romance doesn’t overtake the main plot though, which is what I look for in romance implemented in books that I read. There’s world building did fall a bit short in some areas but I did love what was done, I just would have loved it to be expanded upon because it had so much potential. Overall, I think many readers who enjoy YA fantasy books will really enjoy this one as well!

Many thanks to the publishers Penguin Group / Penguin Teen and NetGalley for my advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review and opinions!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!!

Part portal fantasy part mystery with a heaping dose of Dark Academic flair, this book was a delight from start to finish!!

Maeve Abenthy was too young to be running from her past and hiding her very name, yet for seven years she's done just that. A whole world was doomed and her father deemed the culprit, putting her very safety continuously at risk. No one could know who she was or her family relations, lest they seek to punish or kill her for her father's crime.

Was murderous intent genetic?—No one wished to risk it and find out.

Living in her universe meant the chance of crossing dimensional barriers and visiting two other versions of the world she called home. A set of three large doors connected the set of universes into easily transversable locations. People crossed through one doorway for some shopping, then hopped back for dinner with ease... <i>or they had</i>.

Several years ago, a cataclysmic event infected one of the worlds, damning all who resided within it. In a last ditch attempt to minimize losses, the doors were set ablaze and destroyed. This of course doomed all to stay in whichever of the two remaining worlds they were visiting at the time. Families were separated and countless lives lost as the whole fabric of society—and to a lesser extent reality—fell apart.

Those with the magical gift for "Scriptomancy" were the only people still able to cross between the barriers, as the very artform had once created the doors themselves. These people were able to craft their own personal doors for short-term use. As her father possessed this gift and fully intended to train her in the art, Maeve had justifiably complicated feelings about this form of magic. She still kept up her journaling and the study of words, but was that from a desire to learn and test her skills? Or perhaps and attempt at finding normalcy amidst the chaos?

Maeve was ready for change.

When we meet her, she's saved enough money for an alleged fresh start in a far-away town. Constantly on the run, lying about her identity, Maeve hoped that this would have been a chance at some semblance of a normal life. A very delayed letter from just after the infamous door fire arrived during this time, which sent her off on a drastically different path.

Her father may have been <i>innocent</i>!

As a man she adored and still bears complicated feelings of love and disgust for, this chance to gleam a new understanding justifiably shifted her plans about. She had to know the truth, no matter how grand or horrid it may have been. The further she investigated, the more mysteries and inklings of underhanded corruption she uncovered.

She may feel regret for her actions or the occasional bout of overwhelming guilt, but Maeve would do <i>anything</i> to survive. The chance for betterment and schooling—much like our own world—heavily favored those prviledged with wealth, regardless of if they were skilled enough to pursue their desired fields. She had one chance to con her way into the Scriptomancy Apprenticeship and took it, fearful of the consequences all-the-while.

Maeve knew her inks, could write very well, and think on her feet. Ready to lie or scheme if needed to survive and thrive. Her chance to study may not have been <i>legitimately</i> acquired, but it was certainly deserved.

I really appreciated the deep dive into class disparity within the realm of higher education. Money really makes all the difference, and oftentimes those perhaps most suited to study will never have the chance to try without permanently damning their finances. Coupled with Maeve's paranoia-induced anxiety and the severe ptsd from both our protagonist and male lead, quite a few heavy topics were handled with care and nuance here.

I adored Maeve and her misanthropic, scheming character. She's miserable, with no intent to make you forget that fact, yet deep down she longed for a better life and a place to belong. She wanted to have friends and fun experiences like other people her age, but years on the run and justifiable paranioa around her safety had—in her eyes—robbed her of the chance.

Maeve won't be for everyone, but I had a delightful time!! I found her anxiety and self-doubt remarkably relatable. She's also really funny as a narrator and perhaps most surprisingly I was rooting for the romance from their first interaction.

My only genuine criticism was that the ending felt a bit rushed. Two or three more chapters to really flesh out various plot resolutions would have made these moments more impactful. I understand why logically several of these points happen off page, yet reworking these moments to feel less like a handful of summary paragraphs would have been ideal. Again, to reiterate I did read an ARC so it's entirely possible these final pages felt more polished and poignant.

I've missed YA fantasy books like this!
The magic/world was interesting. The mystery was a little predictable but I was second guessing my guesses as we went.
The romance was very mild but in a sweet way that I really appreciated.
And all the characters felt like individuals.
I really enjoyed this book.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC I didn't finish until after the book released... *hangs head*

I really enjoyed this. Well-written. Good, creative world building, with intricate magic. A plucky, brave young woman to root for, and a mysterious young man who helps and supports her, even though he knows she's lying to him, and keeping secrets. An unexpected villain. It's a YA, but you'd never know it.

Looking forward to reading more Emily Taylor.

I actually purchased this book. It was so good. I will be taking it to a book fest for Emily to sign.

✨ARC Review✨

Another wonderful dark academia fantasy!

Maeve Abenthy has not written nor said her real name aloud for seven years. She’s gotten by from job to job and identity to identity until she receives a long-delayed letter that has the potential to change her life. Signed “an old friend”, the letter says her father is innocent of a horrendous crime that changed the world seven years earlier.

The course for the truth leads her to tell many a lie including several that have her becoming a scribing apprentice at the school where her father used to work. It’s a little difficult to condense what scribing is for the sake of this review- just know that it is a necessity in this world.

During this journey, she meets Tristan, a handsome, rumpled mess with expensive taste and an extraordinary talent for scribing. He assists her with all the things even while having no idea who she is really. This underlying romance element definitely kept me as invested as figuring out all the mysteries.

The world was also interesting and a beautiful amalgamation of so many different eras and the author’s own imagination.

Recommended for any fantasy reader!

I was given this eARC via #netgalley and @PenguinTeen. All thoughts are mine alone.

#booksbooksbooks #yafantasy #yabooks #fantasybooks #theotherwherepost #emilyjtaylor #bookreview #bookrecs #bookstagram

Maeve is trying to get answers related to her father's infamy when she receives a mysterious letter. So, she hatches a plan to infiltrate the school for scriptomancers to learn more.

This book was so interesting and I wanted to know more about the history of the setting and scriptomancy. I think part of the difficulty in taking on a new world is describing it enough where the reader can really immerse themselves, and I don't think that Taylor had the chance to do that. I loved the first 70% of this book, but then it just took a turn that didn't make sense given that we didn't have enough knowledge about the world they lived in. I feel like Tristan could have given us more of that background that we were missing!

Seven years ago, Maeve Abenthy lost everything—her father, her home, even her name. Living under a false identity, she never stays in one place for long, until a mysterious letter arrives with four impossible words: Your father was innocent.To uncover the truth, she trains in scriptomancy, a dangerous magic that sends enchanted letters across worlds. But as she digs into the past, someone is determined to stop her—no matter the cost.


I’ve never read a book about scriptomancy (magic tied to writing, letters, and enchanted text) but now I need more!

What I Loved:
The magic system and plot felt so fresh and original.
The mystery kept me hooked right up until the final chapters.
The side characters and their friendships added so much heart to the story.
The writing was incredibly atmospheric—I could see everything like a movie.

What I Didn’t:
The second half had a bit too much filler.
Tristan and Maeve’s relationship was great, but I wanted more buildup — it felt a little rushed.
The pacing dragged in places, making some sections feel slow.

Overall, I loved this book. It was so original, full of heart, and had an fmc who learns to let people in after years of isolation. If you love mysteries, immersive writing, and original magic systems, this one’s for you!

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers for this ARC

Seven years ago Maeve Abenthy lost her anchor when the doors between the three worlds collapsed killing her father and aunt. When her dad is accused of being responsible Maeve goes into hiding using an assumed name and making a living however she can. When she receives an anonymous letter saying her father was innocent she poses as an apprentice for the Otherwhere Post to uncover the truth. As she begins to train in the art of scriptomancy, the arcane magic that allows couriers to deliver messages between worlds, she discovers how hard it is to keep up a false persona. Working against time to learn the craft and uncover the truth of her father's life she draws unwanted attention and new threats. This original and unique dark academia fantasty novel was engaging and interesting. The world building and magic system were clearly and engagingly portrayed. Maeve and the supporting characters were diverse and realistic. Maeve's self doubts and genuine grief from her loss emerge from the page and the reader is drawn to her and her mission. A highly engaging read.