This book immediately lured me in with its notes of dark academia, English-influenced charm, literary magic, mystery, and slow-burn romance. I loved the magic system created by Emily J. Taylor with the scriptomancy - the magical ability to enchant letters. It felt wholly original and intriguing. Although it was a little difficult to follow sometimes, my literary heart adored it. The setting of this book is not in England (it was in a fictional world), but it was very obvious that the world of The Otherwhere Post was meant to feel like an alternate Britain as the characters had that special British charm and way of speaking. Each character was very well written out, specifically Maeve and Tristyn. Their backstories are incredibly complex, and dang I just adore when the love interest's backstory is shown in depth. Although the blurb doesn't really hint at romance - trust me. It's there. And it is really, really swoon-worthy. Tristyn is an incredible character who thankfully added so much depth to this story besides being a love interest. Maeve is also an amazing female protagonist - strong, independent, intelligent, but also knows when to lean on others for help. Maeve and Tristyn's dynamic is basically what I search for in every book. I was so surprised by this story and a large part of me is disappointed that this is just a stand-alone book. I liked this world Emily created, and the lore connected to it. I would love to see more in this universe, if possible!

3.25⭐️s

Thank you to NetGallery and Penguin Young Readers Group
For allowing me the opportunity to read the eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.

I will start off this review by saying this is not a bad book, it was quite enjoyable. But it wasn’t perfect for me. I do think a lot of people will really love this book though. For a few reasons the book didn’t work for me. One I just didn’t buy all the plot points and how this story wrapped up. I wouldn’t call it too easy, but it was abrupt in a sense. Some parts were a bit too out of the realm of possibilities for this world. Then honestly a few parts of the storyline were a bit confusing for me and didn’t add up, and granted I can get confused and it may be a me problem but it happened enough to affect my overall opinion. As for the romance in this book, if you’re a slow burn fan you’ll enjoy this, but for me it wasn’t slow burn enough if that makes sense? They kinda got together quick for the relationship they’d had prior to it progressing. As well as the friendships, while they were necessary, they didn’t stand out and honestly with Nan and Maeve I wanted to see more scenes of them together and growing that relationship. All in all this was enjoyable but just didn’t hit the mark for me <3

"I told you already; I'm nobody interesting."

"I think it's the opposite," he said. "I think you're somebody very interesting who has a lot to lose by revealing yourself to others. Most of all, I think you're scared of who you are.”

First, thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing me with ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This was such a lovely book. I loved watching Maeve grow as a character and her sweet romance with Tristan was to die for. 😩

Tristan was so freaking sweet. We need more characters like him. So gentle and kind. He never did anything to hurt Maeve either even if it meant he couldn’t help her like he wanted. And he did it all to show her she could trust him.

The magic system here was really interesting as well. Words having true power and the overall vibes of the world was so cool!

I think the world building could’ve been slightly tighter. I did get confused a bit since we’re kind of plopped into everything. So it did take me out of the story a tad when I had to stop and make sure I understood what I was being told.

But overall, this was such a lovely whimsical book. I definitely need to read Hotel Maqnifique! It’s been sitting on my shelf for ages. If you liked Divine Rivals and love Studio Ghibli films, I highly recommend picking this up!

4 stars!

In this dark academia world with magically enchanted letters a young woman, named Maeve adventures for the truth about her father while falling for her handsome mentor, Tristan. Taylor does an excellent job of enchanting her audience!

4.5/5
Unique, different magic and fantasy! Absolutely love the university vibes and the mysterious back story for Maeve. The scribing magic is a nice refreshing different magic that's easy to understand and pretty well explained. Maeve is a pretty rounded character that builds a great little banter with the MMC but the relationship with the female friends just seem to appear within the story without any good building blocks. I just wish was there were more smaller steps before everyone was cozy. The plot itself is interesting and has a very well made magic and hierarchy. The world itself is well made easy to follow as well. This fantasy was a sweet and I had a blast reading it.
Thank you NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers for the opportunity to read this book

“I rode through the night, searching every roadway until I found you the following morning.” LITERALLY STFU!!

This book was AMAZING and as much as I adored the romance, the star of the show was the brilliant world this all took place in. This had a wonderful mix of dark academia, incredibly high stakes mystery, fmc just doing her best, mmc who is always trying to help, AND a touch of found family. I beg you to read it. Seriously like right now. This is one of those books that you recommend to everyone, the one you want to always find yourself yapping about. I’m actually going to need a few weeks to process this book because I genuinely love it. Also special thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the chance to read this amazing book! This review is already on my Goodreads profile.

4.5 - this was such a fun read!

This was my first ever ARC and it did not disappoint. I looove a creative magic system and finding something as original as this is pretty rare in fantasy. The characters were fleshed out and interesting.

My one complaint is that the ending felt dependent almost exclusively on luck.

Overall, it was a fun and quick read, perfect for a quiet weekend. I would definitely recommend!

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group for providing this ARC

The Otherwhere Post is a book like no other that's been written. It has all the magical and dark academia vibes. The story and characters are so unique, bold, vibrant, rich, flawed, and complex. The worldbuilding is top notch. I highly recommend this book. Until next time Happy Reading!

I would like to thank G. P. Putnam for this ARC via Netgalley.

Thank you NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers for the ARC!

I struggled to put this book down whenever I had time to pick it up. I absolutely loved all the relationships/friendships in this book, especially the banter between Maeve and Tristan.
The magic system was so intriguing and easy to understand. Often times when I'm reading about new magic systems, I find myself saying "Wait, what?" but that wasn't the case here and it never felt info dump-y at all. I don't know if the author has any plans for it but I would love to read more adventures set in this world!

this story was so fun! it was an arc so i’m going to try not to give too many spoilers, but it’s out relatively soon so if i sneak them at the bottom i’ll let you know.

i love the worldbuilding here. i LOVE an interesting magic system, and i love it even more when the story so heavily relies on the reader learning the system. i felt so immersed in leyland, barrow, and the post itself. the system is simple to understand and fun to play around in, which is fantastic.

the characters were also great. nobody in the story was so inherently unique, but i loved following maeve as the daughter of one of the most infamous men in her world — such an interesting perspective that i feel like i haven’t read that often. nan, shea, and tristan were also fantastic, but were definitely more characters doing exactly what they were supposed to do.

(SPOILERS AHEAD!) however what really made this book for me was the way the twists layered together. i loved mondraig being the villain, i just wish we had learned about the aldervine a tad earlier and about the sciptomatic arts being threatened so i had more time to put it together! though byrne wanting to sit down with maeve to tell her stories about her father in the end was sooooo sweet.

The Otherwhere Post is very much Divine Rivals meets A Darker Shade of Magic. This story is some of the best parts of each while still having its own originality and I’m so beyond happy I got the chance to proof read it. The fantasy aspect of this book stands on its own, an incredible book even without the romance. The small amount of romance is done exceedingly well, with wonderfully obvious slow burn and has you rooting for them the whole time. Maeve is an incredible FMC and I loved seeing her evolve throughout this book while she learned more and more about her father and the Aldervine. As my first read of Emily J. Taylor, this has exceeded any expectations I had and I will be reading anything I can get my hands on that she has written. 🙂‍↕️

I absolutely loved this - literary-based magic? Sign me up!

I was drawn in from the start and read this basically in two sittings. The mystery and feel of the MC being in danger were really well done, as was the banter between Maeve and Tristan. I don't often have outward reactions while reading, but this book had me smiling at the snark between the two and gasping at some of the reveals because I was so invested in Maeve's story! The world Taylor built is a beautiful, atmospheric one and I wish there was more exploration of it overall, but the scope given was good for the story, if only this was a series so I could spend more time there!

Considering this is an ARC, I do hope there will be a careful focus on editing inconsistencies before the final printing. The most glaring one for me was an article gets released at the end, but its release is mentioned in two very different ways. Otherwise, this was an absolutely captivating read and I can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy!

This is a super fun read. I enjoyed the storyline, the magic, and the friendships. Though I would have liked to see the other types of magics in action, the academia setting made this enjoyable. I liked Tristan’s character and I’m glad that through Maeve, he is making friends, because he definitely needs them.

As I received an ARC, my copy was riddled with spelling mistakes and inconsistencies, like Maeve putting things in her pockets when she specifically mentions her outfit doesn’t have pockets. Though I am sure it will go through proper editing before release day.

As such, I will definitely buy myself a copy when it releases, as I’ve loved both Taylor’s books. This is fantasy done right.

Emily J. Taylor’s “The Otherwhere Post” is a delightful journey into a world where magic and mystery collide with heartfelt storytelling. Taylor masterfully weaves a narrative that is both whimsical and emotionally resonant, creating a universe that feels as vivid and alive as the characters inhabiting it.

Set against the backdrop of a fantastical postal service connecting realms, “The Otherwhere Post” introduces us to a heroine who is both relatable and inspiring. Her journey of self-discovery and resilience is beautifully complemented by a cast of quirky and endearing supporting characters. Taylor’s prose is richly descriptive, painting lush landscapes and intricate magical systems that transport readers into the heart of her world.

What truly stands out is the novel’s underlying themes of connection, courage, and the power of believing in oneself. Taylor’s ability to balance humor, adventure, and poignant moments ensures that readers of all ages will find something to cherish.

For fans of inventive fantasy with heartwarming depth, “The Otherwhere Post” is an absolute gem. Emily J. Taylor has crafted a story that stays with you long after the final page—a testament to her storytelling prowess. Highly recommended!

3.96 ★ — i remember reading "a door at the end of the world" by caroline carlson and desperately wishing for a ya/adult fantasy book with that atmosphere, and this is everything i ever wanted from that.

everything about the english/scottish setting and the worldbuilding hooked me in. scriptomancy is an intriguing, unique magic system, and i like how it's written into the story—maeve is attending an apprentice program, and new information is slowly slipped in as she learns it. it's kind of annoying at first because nothing makes sense, but in this way, the fantasy is more immersive, and new magical theories pull you in every chapter. taylor's prose does an excellent job of making the fantasy academia atmosphere come alive.

maeve abenthy is an incredibly well-crafted character, both likable and relatable from the first page. she's intelligent, capable, and highly motivated, but slow to trust. her vulnerabilities, when depicted, will claw into your heart and stay there. her slowly opening up to tristan and then nan and shea was adorable.

the tortured, mysterious male lead trope can be dull at times with how often it's been written, but tristan is a refreshing character. he's sweet and funny and he loves maeve very much, so i love him. his background isn't corny and overwritten to gain sympathy (like certain other mls of his breed)—it's sad, but it's unique, and it makes you appreciate him for who is even more. and importantly, he doesn't make his trauma his only personality trait and use it to terrorize everyone, which i love, love, love.

i also love how their relationship was written. their first meeting was hilarious, and every conversation after was giggle-worthy as well. it's also very slowburn and quiet, which i love.

and maeve and nan's relationship was everything to me. definitely one of my top three favorite parts of the book. love platonic grumpy-sunshine. maeve's gruffness vs nan's stubborn friendliness was a dopamine rush.

as for the plot/mystery, i enjoyed it. i did, however, feel that some hints earlier on in the book, instead of one big reveal at the end, would make the culprit more believable/interesting. maybe i just wasn't paying attention, but who even is [redacted]? i think that's just a me thing, though, as other people might have found that to be too predictable? idk.

thank you to netgalley for the advanced copy.

I can't lie, I was overwhelmed and confused for the first 50 pages of this book and I'm still not entirely sure how the magic system works but boy was I obsessed with this book. I'm sure the information to understand everything I needed to know was in the story, I just rushed past it. This book had me on the edge of my seat because I had no clue what turn we were taking next in the story. I am absolutely OBSESSED with Tristan and Meave. Tristan had me giggling and kicking my feet and I barely ever got mad at Meave for being so secretive which is something that i normally cannot stand. I implore other to read this book and become as entranced with the world as I was. The characters were compelling, the story was intriguing and the reveal at the end knocked me off of my feet.

5/5 stars.

Thanks to NetGalley, Putnam Books, and Penguin Random House for this copy of "The Otherwhere Post."

I absolutely adored this book!! (Let me give that maybe 10 more exclamation points!!) It's now one of my favorite books ever. It was amazing and I literally could not stop reading - I read it in almost one sitting except for taking breaks to eat meals.

I was immersed immediately (lots of "imm" words) into the three known worlds and the Written Doors that let you travel between the worlds. Except one of the doors was destroyed to keep a deadly evil from infecting the other two.

Maeve is an orphan who works for an inksmithy under an assumed name. She had to change her name when she escaped from the world with the deadly evil that her father was responsible for unleashing.

The Otherwhere Post helps lost families who are trying to find each other. Scriptomancers enchant any piece of handwriting and can find and deliver it to the addressee.

And so begins this wondrous, amazing tale! If you read it, please tell me what you think.

Emily J. Taylor’s "The Otherwhere Post" is a mesmerizing dark fantasy novel that plunges readers into a world filled with secrets, magic, and danger. The story revolves around Maeve Abenthy, a young woman living under a false identity since her father, a renowned scriptomancer, was accused of a heinous crime seven years ago. When Maeve receives a mysterious letter suggesting her father’s innocence, she embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth, posing as an apprentice at the enigmatic Otherwhere Post.

From the very first page, Taylor’s storytelling prowess is evident. Her world-building is both intricate and immersive, painting a vivid picture of a society where scriptomancy (magic that is wielded through writing) is both revered and feared. The Otherwhere Post, a place where letters and packages travel across dimensions and realities, serves as a fascinating backdrop for the unfolding mystery. Taylor’s detailed descriptions of this magical postal service and its operations are both imaginative and captivating, making the reader feel as though they’ve stepped into a world brimming with possibility and peril.

Maeve is a compelling protagonist, driven by a deep need to clear her father’s name and uncover the truth. Her determination and resilience make her a character that readers can root for, even as she navigates the treacherous waters of deceit and danger. Throughout the novel, Maeve’s internal struggles and growth are portrayed with nuance and depth. Her journey is not just a quest for the truth, but also a journey of self-discovery, as she grapples with her own identity and the legacy of her father’s alleged crimes.

The supporting characters in "The Otherwhere Post" are equally well-crafted. From the enigmatic and formidable Postmaster to the fellow apprentices, each character adds depth and intrigue to the story. Their interactions with Maeve highlight the complexities of trust, loyalty, and betrayal, and each character’s backstory is woven seamlessly into the narrative. Taylor excels at creating characters that are multifaceted and relatable, ensuring that readers are invested in their fates.

One of the novel’s strengths is its exploration of the moral and ethical implications of magic. Scriptomancy, the ability to manipulate reality through writing, is a powerful and dangerous tool. Taylor delves into the darker aspects of this magic, raising questions about its use and abuse. Maeve’s investigation into her father’s past reveals a web of corruption and power struggles, and the novel doesn’t shy away from the darker side of human nature. This moral complexity adds depth to the story and makes it a thought-provoking read.

The plot of "The Otherwhere Post" is tightly woven and expertly paced. Taylor balances moments of high tension and action with quieter, introspective scenes, creating a narrative that is both gripping and emotionally resonant. The mystery of Maeve’s father’s innocence is at the heart of the story, but the novel is enriched by various subplots and character arcs. Each revelation and twist is carefully crafted, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and eager to uncover the next piece of the puzzle.

Taylor’s writing is both lyrical and engaging. Her prose is filled with vivid imagery and evocative descriptions, bringing the world of the Otherwhere Post to life. The dialogue is natural and reflective of the characters’ personalities, adding authenticity to their interactions. Taylor’s ability to create atmosphere and tension is particularly noteworthy, making "The Otherwhere Post" a compelling and immersive read.

"The Otherwhere Post" by Emily J. Taylor is a masterful dark fantasy novel that combines mystery, magic, and richly developed characters. It is a story about the search for truth and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. With its intricate world-building, complex moral questions, and engaging narrative, it is a must-read for fans of fantasy and mystery alike.

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Penguin Young Readers Group for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Emily J. Taylor crafted an enchanting story in The Otherwhere Post. The fiery main character is a standout, bursting with personality and determination, making every page exciting to read. The story is beautifully written, seamlessly blending magic and mystery into a captivating tale. It really pulled me in and kept me guessing until the very end. Fans of magical adventures will love this and I would highly recommend.

➸ 5 stars

“A letter can become an extension of your soul if you will it, a trapped part of you that shakes loose whenever someone reads your words.”

— thank you to netgalley and the publishers for the advanced readers copy!

𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈: 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒚 - 𝒕𝒂𝒚𝒍𝒐𝒓 𝒔𝒘𝒊𝒇𝒕

𓍢🪶 enchanted letters
𓍢🪶 dark academia vibes
𓍢🪶 autumn in edinburgh inspired setting
𓍢🪶 slow burn romance
𓍢🪶 dangerous writing magic
𓍢🪶 a university spanning 3 worlds

okay wow… I LOVED THIS BOOK!! immediately from the start i was so intrigued by the worlds and everything that happened in the past; even more intrigued by the magic! it was unlike anything i’ve seen and i loved learning about how it all works! i would’ve loved to have seen more about all the different types as well, but our fmc is trapped in a mystery herself that had me questioning everything and suspecting everyone! just when i thought i had everything figured out, no, i didnt!

“Her life often left like a violent ocean tossing her about, but writing gave her a foothold. A moment to catch her breath.”

➺ maeve abenthy - she is such a strong character given everything she went through and how she goes about her life; despite all of that, she’s determined, fierce, an sassy when she needs to! i loved her character development and seeing her slowly start to trust was amazing!

“He’d just admitted that he loved scribing once. He was obviously gifted at it. A prodigy who now tormented himself for a mistake that wasn’t his fault. Who held finally back from something that brought him joy.”

➺ tristan byrne - this man instantly became one of my favorite mmc’s! sassy men always do it for me and tristan was hilarious!! ugh i loved him. and the tortured ink-stained boy who plays piano to top it off? it added so much more to his character and i loved reading about his development with scribing again! i couldn’t get enough of him, i loved his character!

𓍢⊹ ࣪
full in-depth review is available on my goodreads!