Winner of the 2020 Ampersand Prize, a premier award for New Zealand and Australian first-time authors

"The racially diverse cast and the worldbuilding surrounding the magic system—characters’ powers seem to draw from specific cultural aspects, as when Tim explains that his “Pacific magic,” or magic rooted in his Māori heritage, is useful for summoning animals—provide a unique backdrop for Kiwi author Valley’s witty and buoyant debut." —Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

"Sweet and sexy in equal measure,Tim Te Maro and the Subterranean Heartsick Blues explores all the confusion, messiness and joy that comes with queer first love." —Erin Gough, author of Amelia Westlake Was Never Here

"A fun, low-stakes (but high-investment) romp through the brains of lovelorn, hormone-driven teenagers, and the delightful array of queer people that populate their school and by proxy their world." —TheSpinoff.co.nz

"Valley’s conversational dialogue, combined with her authentic characters, make the story easy to connect with. Excellently illustrated teen struggles around love, relationships and sexuality while maintaining the fantasy setting makes the novel perfect for young adults.. . . Use of New Zealand locations and inclusion of Māori culture make the Harry Potter-like story feel fresh. . . . I recommend this novel for all young adults who can get their hands on it." —kete