The Sleepless is an entertaining fantasy adventure set in a vivid world.

This story follows Elver, Artair and Lucian. Elver has been sent by her god, the Queen of Serpents to retrieve a stolen monster cub. Artair intends on using the monster cub to trade for the lives of his kidnapped friends. Lucian, trapped in Artair's body wants freedom from his imprisonment.

I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. It left me wanting more, from the interactions of the 12 gods to the histories of the sleepless. I would gladly read three more books set in this world.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy in exchange for an honest review.

The book started off so strong and interesting, but along the way it lost its spark. It wasn't bad, but didn't peak my interest enough to continue with the series.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for my advanced listening copy.

I was blown away by how much I enjoyed this book; I listened to it every chance I got. I loved the characters, adored the creatures, and was mesmerized by the extremely immersive world-building. The found family aspect was amazing and so lovely. I liked the exploration of what truly does or does not make a monster. I'd highly recommend this book to those who enjoy a wonderfully written YA story.

The narration was excellent, and I thought each narrator did a great job with the characters.

4.5 stars! Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Macmillan Young Listeners for this advanced copy! You can pick up The Sleepless on September 30, 2025.

This story sucked me in right away, with an explosive prologue that laid out essential characters and tenets of this magical world. Twelve ruling gods, unruly sea serpents, wild creatures of a forest in need of a guardian, an unknowing monk who has an evil alter ego by night -- The Sleepless has all that and more.

Our FMC, Elver, is saved from sacrifice by the Queen of the Serpents and is charged with protecting a magical forest. Altair, our monk and one of the Sleepless, spends his days alone in a monastery while locking himself up at night to keep his alter ego from hurting anyone. Said alter ego, Lucian, has an agenda of his own and a mysterious connection to Elver.

The love triangle was deliciously well done, and the magic was epic throughout the story. I loved the twists and turns (even if a few were predictable), and the ending was insane. I can't wait for the next one!

Unfortunately, the writing style in this book was not for me. I, by no means, am indicating the book is not well written, nor is it bad, it just wasn't something I wanted to spend time on finishing. I DNF'd about 10% in (both audio and e-arc). Due to the fact that I did not finish however, I think it is only fair that I provide a rating of 3 as, again, I do not that my lack of interest in writing style is a true reflection of the quality of the writing or the book.

Regarding the audio narration though, I can provide some feedback. The narrator had great pacing and clear and concise intonation. The narration could be slowed down or sped up without distortion due to the pacing of the audio reader. The narration wasn't distracting from the book at all. I would definitely listen to an audiobook by this narrator in the future without question. The narration is 4 stars for sure.

This audiobook was a lot of fun! Both narrators did an excellent job and I really felt immersed in the world and was excited to see what would happen next. (I do wish we’d gotten to see more of Lucian’s chaotic characteristics though hehe.)

Review is also on my Goodreads

This was an adventure- It was very YA TKATM I feel. There were quests, betrayals, love, gods & monsters!! Totally different stories, but the vibes were similar- Although, yearning & the banter wasn’t as on par. *I don’t wanna say it’s ’cause it’s YA, which is probably why, but some YA do it really well!! This was still good nonetheless though.

Our MCs Elver, Artair, & Lucian were still very fun though. The chemistry was cooking a bit, but I feel like Book 2 is where the buffet is lmfao ‘cause the ending? OK MOTHER 💅🏽 So curious to see where this story goes. The way Elver was talking to The Queen of Serpents towards the end had me ☠️

“I can handle myself.”
“Child… You are ____ again.” 🤣🤣🤣

Oh, and I love the cub!! I forgot the name as soon as they said it lmfaoo, but super adorbs 😭😭😭😭

Overall, I feel like there’s potential here & after that ending- Yeah, I’m tuned in bb. Esme Lonsdale & Kobna Holdbrook-Smith did amazing!!
Such a cute duo 🫶🏽

Thank you NetGalley for the audiobook arc. While the book has wonderful world building I just could not get into the book. I and believe that fans of Powerless would love this book. I unfortunately DNF at 30 percent and I will try to read it again, since I don’t believe that I was in the right mindset to start this book currently

Elver is a monster girl who has a poisonous touch. She spends her time protecting the other monsters and creatures in the forest. The cub was one of my favorite creatures. He was so silly and made funny remarks during their journey.


The twist on the Love Triangle was definitely an interesting concept. Artair, a sleepless, has an evil spirit inside of him named Lucian. The plot felt a bit slow at times and didn't fully captivate me. Artair steals the cub to try and save his people, but Elver is supposed to protect the creatures of the forest. They come to an agreement to find an illusion spell and set out on a journey together. I understand Artair's internal conflict with Lucian and felt bad for him at times. The ending was definitely surprising! Thank you to Netgalley, McMillan Audio, and Jen William for an ARC of this audiobook. This review is my own opinion.