Thank you, Netgalley and Entangled Teen for providing me with an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Where There Be Humans is an interesting story about a half-goblin who struggles with her identity. In a world where being half-goblin is looked down upon she has to fight her way to be respected and accepted. This is a romantic fantasy that mainly focuses on Ivy's journey than world-building. The world was fascinating with different fantastical species and creatures. The magic system was minimal. There was lore that sounded intriguing but was not expanded upon in the story. The book is easy to get through and fast-paced. There were some aspects of the story that reminded me of Harry Potter, with certain characters and their interactions. While the story was entertaining and easily readable, I found myself not liking specific parts of it because of how some of the topics were executed. I still think if you like romantic fantasies and love to try out the genre, then definitely check it out. This is a straight-up romantic fantasy with adventure and a mission into the different worlds within the book. The book is for the younger YA audience than the older ones. I gave the book 2.5 stars, and while it was enjoyable, I didn't love it.

Where There Be Humans by Rebekah L. Purdy is a fast paced, young adult fantasy read. The main characters of this world are goblins in a world also with trolls, and elves but humans are the thing of fairy tales to these creatures.

Ivy Archer is a sixteen year old goblin that has been training to be a warrior in her land of Gob Hollow. Although Ivy is arguably the best in training she’s not well liked by those around her since she’s always been a little different that the other goblins leaving her to wonder if she isn’t part of another species.

When it comes time for the new warrior selections Ivy is left out of those chosen instead finding herself promised in a marriage she does not want. However, when the goblin prince is taken hostage Ivy finds herself leading the effort to return him safely out of the land of the humans where she also finds more about her heritage.

Personally I enjoyed reading Where There Be Humans and appreciated the creativity behind the world of Gob Hollow. It’s not often we find creatures other than the standard vampires and werewolves being the star of the show so hopping into the land of goblins for a few hours with all the twisty secrets of Ivy’s family was quite fun. I wouldn’t have minded a bit more depth to the story as it does go rather quickly but otherwise liked reading this one.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

I love goblin stories and I especially liked that this was told from the pov of a half goblin protagonist. The plot was fast paced and engaging, and overall I had a lot of fun with this book. Enjoyed the story and liked the worlbuilding.

A really fun and interesting read. I had an enjoyable time reading this and it held my attention the entire way through that I finished it within the day!

It was a cute read- more like a younger YA (minus a few swear words). The MC is a very strong character half goblin, half possibly human, who endures bullying and teasing for being of mixed blood. She goes on an importan mission for the king and really proves her worth. If you like youngish YA fantasy, then give this a try.

Leaving reviews on amazon, Goodreads, and my book blog.

If you are looking for a reversed YA Fantasy story where instead of finding out there are paranormal creatures running around, you come to realize humans are also walking the realm, this fast-paced story is just what you’re wanting.

I was super intrigued by the synopsis and the world-building that hopefully would come along with it.

While I did find this book to be very entertaining and worth the read, there were a few typical elements that we tend to see in this genre. It just felt like the world itself was something we’ve read time and time again, BUT the plot was well-defined and provided a quick read.

I gave this one a solid 3 out of 5 stars. If this book sounds even remotely interesting to you, I would definitely recommend picking it up!

This was a fun adventure to read that focused on the lives of goblins in Gob Hollow. We follow the story of Ivy Archer who has never quite belonged around the other goblins.. and everyone knows... she kind of looks half human. Which is a big deal among the goblins and she's spent most of her life defending off her bullies. But that worked to her advantage because she is the best fighter they have.

Things are getting strange in town and the Council decides to assign a mission - which is like a real-life quest for some of their younglings - to go out and get experience and complete something important for their king. At this point, all kinds of town secrets start to unravel and Ivy is at the center of it all. But you know - everything must be kept secret and find answers before all the pieces can be revealed.

I enjoyed the pace of this YA novel and the characters that are introduced. My favorite person is probably the old lady who lives with Ivy and is known only as Cook. She's surly, hilarious and always trying to keep Ivy in line, but she's usually left cleaning up messes instead. Her accent in the book really helps to picture the kind of woman she is and I just kind of lover her like a crabby old Aunt!

There is a best friend also, Pudge, who is her life-time crush and so there is some fun friends-to-lovers trope mixed into this Fantasy/YA/Adventure novels about some goblins trying to save their kingdom and unraveling a bunch of secrets in the process!

I had no idea what I was walking into with this book. The cover captured my eye and I knew I wanted to read it. Then I start reading and realize it's about GOBLINS! First book I've ever read where goblins are the main characters and I absolutely loved every bit of it!

Ivy and Pudge are best friends. Ivy is different from other goblins and she's pretty convinced that she's half human. But humans are just fairytales, right? She sneaks into the archives to find information about humans and stumbles onto something much more interesting.

She and Pudge get sent on a mission to retrieve the captured prince. While on their journey, they discover that the kings council is corrupt. But how far does that corruption run? Will Ivy and Pudge be able to root out the corruption, save the Prince and get information back to the king? The fate of the kingdom is in their hands and Ivy will do anything to save it.

Where There Be Humans is a young adult fantasy by Rebekah L. Purdy. I have read a few of Rebekah's books in the past and I have always really enjoyed them, so when I saw this new release coming out from her, I jumped on it before I even read the synopsis. Then, once I did read the synopsis, and I saw that it is a fantasy set in a world where humans are the creatures of myth and Goblins inhabit and rule the world, I was even more pumped! What a cool, totally unique idea! Where There Be Humans was a quick read that was a lot of fun, and had a really cool world concept that I loved exploring. This was a solid read for me, and I am hoping for the possibility of more in this world. (though this book reads as a standalone in my opinion.)

In Where There Be Humans we meet our main character, Ivy, who has always been a bit of an outcast in her town of Gob Hollow. Ivy is half goblin, and her other half has always been a mystery to her (not-so-surprising hint: her other half is human) Despite only being half goblin, Ivy is a wonderful warrior. I instantly like Ivy. I found her to be spunky, strong and dedicated. Her father is an advisor to the Goblin King, and when the Goblin Prince Dorian gets kidnapped, Ivy takes off in search of him. What initially seems like a simple plot, does get twisty as some secrets are revealed later in the story. Parts of the book were a bit predictable for me, but it was still an enjoyable and fun read. There were parts of the book that I wish were fleshed out a bit more and some questions and details, I was hoping for more of an explanation of, but overall the tempo of the book clipped along at a fast pace, and I wasn't really ever confused about the world.

Where There Be Humans is a young adult fantasy perfect for younger readers that is part quest, part coming of age story for our heroine Ivy, and all set in a cool world. This book is perfect for younger readers because the romance in the story is very light. While, I wish there was more of a heavy romance (because hello- I love that!) I think this book is very age appropriate for older middle grade readers looking to try out young adult fantasy. With a satisfying ending, Where There Be Humans wrapped up very nicely for me. I enjoyed this fun coming of age fantasy tale in a topsy-turvy world where humans are thought to only exists in myth, and our mythical creatures reign supreme. Take a journey to Gob Hollow and see what you think of Ivy and her gang!

I thought the premise of this book was so original. A world where goblins, trolls, and elves are the norm but humans are “fairy tales”? Sign me up! But ultimately this book left me wanting more.

Ivy is supposed to be this strong, fierce warrior, but I felt like she actually had very little agency. A lot of things just happen to her and she’s forced to play along with other people’s plans.

There was too much going on for a book of this length. There were too many subplots, making the story feel unfocused and world feel underdeveloped. I didn’t fully understand how the goblin magic worked or the significance of being blessed by the Hag. I also thought the romance was a little boring, with confusing and unnecessary love triangles. The plot was fast-paced, but I wish each plot point had been explored more deeply before moving on the next.

Thank you to Entangled Teen and Netgalley for gifting me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Teen for my copy of Where There Be Humans. I enjoyed reading this book. If you enjoy Holly Black and Brigid Kemmerer you will like it too!

Read my full review here:

https://booksteahealthyme.home.blog/2020/06/01/book-review-where-there-be-humans-by-rebekah-l-purdy/

Where There Be Humans, by author Rebekah L. Purdy, follows 16-year old Ivy Archer as she journey's for clues to her heritage, and to save the boy who she respects. Ivy lives in a place called Gob Hollow where she's an outcast. She has no clue who her mother is since the truth has been kept from her. She believes that she's 1/2 human and 1/2 Goblin since her skin coloring and features are entirely different from everyone else. Even though she's one of the finest students and warriors in training of her age, but she's never taken seriously.

She's been told that humans are fictitious and don't exist. But, she knows otherwise because she's been doing her own research. Her only real friends are Pudge Wayfever and Prince Dorian. When King Starshooter decides it's time for a coming of age journey to the Outer Realm for the first time in 17 years, Ivy knows that this might be her best shot to prove to everyone, including her father, that she's more than qualified to take this dangerous journey and hold the Sword of Avarik. Unfortunately, and for other reasons I won't spoil, Prince Dorian is chosen instead.

Ivy knows that something happened 17 years ago when the King was a boy who traveled to the Outer Realm. There are a few people still alive who know the truth including her father and their cook. For Ivy, something surprising happens to her. She appears to have been chosen by the Goblin's Hag for some reason that won't become clear until much later in this story. It will also explain why she's so different from everyone else in Gob Hollow. With her father and cook being very secretive, Ivy feels as though she is being punished while everyone else can get away with whatever they want to.

In that regards, it is Dorian who is chosen to go on the quest after making his intention know that he plans to marry Ivy. But, when Dorian doesn't return after several months and appears to have been captured by Elves, there is only one choice as to who is going to bring him back: Ivy. As the truth about Ivy's tattoo's are revealed, Ivy becomes aware that she's been lied to her entire life. Also, since the Hag has chosen her, there is no way the King can refuse to allow her to go on this journey. She, and her best friend Pudge join the rescue attempt at bringing Dorian back home.

What they don't count on is discovering the truth about her heritage, the truth about humans, and a large conspiracy that could destroy Gob Hollow if someone doesn't step up. Ivy struggles mightily to remain calm in a constant storm of turmoil. She knows that there is only one person she can trust. Everyone else seems to have their own agenda and their subterfuge may encompass a large swath of Goblins. Ivy's time in the human world is brief by dangerous. She encounters hatred at the extreme level but also love from a woman who knew Ivy's mother. In the human world, Goblins are the ones who are thought to be fairy tales. Ivy also encounters new allies and her feelings for Pudge grow stronger and the danger gets more intense.

Overall, I really liked Ivy. I liked that she shows courage in the face of one dangerous situation after the other. I liked that Pudge wasn't shoved out of the way to make room for Ivy to fall in love with someone else. The ending is a bit on the predictable side but I'm satisfied overall with the story.

I have only read a few goblin books and this one was pretty well done. While I feel it was based more for younger YA. The characters were witty and had great banter. I enjoyed the fact that the main character starts out at the bottom and has to work hard to become the one she wants to be. I don't want to spoil it for anyone so I won't say more than that.
A quick fantasy read with just a small amount of romance involved.

I really wanted to love this one. I thought I would love it. Unfortunately it fell short for me. It felt like a children’s fantasy book. The characters acted younger than their years, the plot and world were fairly simple, and the writing itself seemed aimed towards a younger audience. I think my 11 year old daughter would enjoy it. I think the themes and style would be more appropriate for a children’s book. It just wasn’t for me.

This was surprisingly fun and entertaining! I think the first image that pops to mind with the word goblin is never the most pleasant one but this offers a different perspective to that stereotype. Our main character is half-goblin and has always thought that humans were the mythical creatures above ground. The writing is really easy to read and the pacing keeps you reading. It's been a while since I've read a book but Rebekah L. Purdy but reading this one reminded me why I enjoyed her previous works. It's immersive and all around fun with a dash of adventure and self-discovery.

3 mediocre stars.

It was a fast paced read with some good fantasy elements, a good set of characters but overall I just felt it had so much more potential and that the story development didn’t come to fruition the way I had hoped beforehand.

So it was fun, entertaining and fast paced with some interesting characters and fantasy elements but the execution just wasn’t entirely what I hoped for and made it a mediocre read for me that doesn’t really stand out in the overall scheme of things.

I think this one is definitely a book you should pick up if it looks interesting to you. I have a feeling a lot of readers are going to love it!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an arc of the book in exchange for me leaving a review - my honest opinions on this book are entirely my own voiced thoughts and not influenced by others.

"I turned back to watch Gob Hollow drift away on the horizon. So many emotions rolled through. The excitement. Fear. Worry. Everything depended on my decisions. A mission I’d prayed for but now dreaded because of what was at stake.⁣
Our journey had begun."
⁣
I just finished WHERE THERE BE HUMANS by Rebekah.L.PURDY.⁣
It took me a little time to read it but only because the sun was out these last few days.⁣
I really enjoyed it: It has everything I appreciate in a YA fantasy novel.⁣
The pacing was a little bit slow at the beginning but it helped a lot with the characters development.⁣
We quickly become attached to the characters of Ivy and Pudge: these two remind me a little of Frodo and Sam, inseparable and fearless despite their young ages.⁣
I particularly liked the fact that the main character is a proud and strong young goblin, it's refreshing to read stories that aren't about princesses going rogue. Unlike many YA novels where the heroine discovers an inner strength she didn't know she had after a traumatic ordeal, Ivy knows exactly what she's worth which saves a lot of time on the development of her character.⁣
The fact that the principle of the damsel in distress is put aside and where it is the prince who needs to be rescued is also very pleasant to read.⁣
The other characters are also very well developed and I can't help but smile when I see the author's different ideals: a tale of diversity and acceptance, a modern fairy tale that is just waiting to be read.⁣

Where There be Humans by Rebekah L Purdy is due to be published on the first of June. It is based in a goblin world, where Humans are considered to be myth. The story follows Ivy, a half goblin who suspects her other half is human. When the goblin prince is kidnapped by humans it becomes clear they are far from myth, and it's up to Ivy and her best friend Pudge, to save the day. And maybe figure out why Ivy's heart races whenever shes around him as well.
I loved the idea of a story where goblins are the good guys and humans are bad and this book does not disappoint. There is lots of action and plenty of surprises. I did find some of the journeying towards the middle of the book lacked depth and some of the fight scenes/action in this part of the book didn't really add to the story but this passed quickly.
The world was well built and the characters vivid and realistic. I really enjoyed this book and will happily recommend it. 4 stars.

Wow. I really enjoyed this book. It was an original concept, but felt familiar at the same time. It evokes similar feelings to ACOTAR for me and it does feel like it in some ways. That being said it is the only story I've ever read with goblins in it and I feel like it was well done. I would have liked a little more history on elves and humans because it did feel like humans were just accepted as real even after being fairytales for so long. I would have liked to see the main character a little more taken aback at the news of humans being real, but it felt like it was just easily accepted as fact. Overall an amazing fantasy novel that is so much fun to read and be in it's world.

In this novel, we follow Ivy, a half-goblin, half-something, as she goes on a mission to save her friend, Prince Dorian, and learn more about her past. There, she experiences plenty of twists and turns as she answers the question, Who is her mother? And do humans exist?

The idea of these novel is fun, but I’m not sure it comes across as it is meant to. To me, it seemed like it was a younger children’s novel trying to dive into the world of young adult fantasy. In fact, I had a scene from Aladdin in my mind during a beginning scene where Ivy is running through the streets from her enemy. The dialogue seemed a bit childish (excluding the non-childlike language) and the characters and their world weren’t as developed as I would normally like to see them.

I liked that goblins were the main character and humans were myths, which made the story original. I also enjoyed the fact that Ivy can hold her own against the people around her when necessary. Pudge was a good character and I like that it showed him developing throughout the novel, almost in the way that we would normally see a heroine developing. The romance here was also fun to read!

Overall, the idea of the book is interesting and a quick read. It’s just more tailored towards younger audiences than what I am used to in a YA fantasy.