Really enjoyed this book of magic and mystery. Maeve hasn't had an easy time in life, worth her father blamed for destroying one of 3 magic worlds. Her only hope for finding out what may have happened with him is going to scriptomancy school. Magic in writing, sounded so intriguing when I saw this book. Maeve and Tristan were interesting characters and I liked their relationship. Overall an entertaining read with magic and mystery!

Arc provided by netgalley for honest review

WOW! This book was just amazing.... I could not put it down and the world building was fantastic. I would really like to see a prequel of the original Maeve!!!!

After spending seven years hiding out from her father's supposed crimes, Maeve will risk everything to prove he's innocent. She cons her way into an apprenticeship with The Otherwhere Post so that she can travel to worlds where there may be people who can help her.

I really enjoyed this fantasy book in an unusual world where words themselves, written in books or on skin, have so much power. The characters are so likeable and you really want Maeve to prove her father was not the monster everyone thinks he is and who did do what he was accused.

A light, fast read, this book would be great for readers of all ages who like a good adventure.

I have been provided with a review copy of The Otherwhere Post from NetGalley for an impartial review. This book was just so easy to get lost in. I completely got lost in the story and I just loved getting to see these new characters come together. I just absolutely love this story and I just didn’t want to put it down. I can’t wait to see what’s next from this author.

One of my favorite things about a book is when the author’s writing can transport you to the setting the main character is in. Emily Taylor has done just that. The magic system in this book is so unique and the concept so whimsical, you can’t help but immerse yourself in the story. The banter between the two main characters made me chuckle. Though this book started out kind of slow, things picked up about 55% of the way in and I was hooked. The ending was a bit rushed and I felt the pacing could have been spread more evenly throughout the book, but the conclusion was still satisfying and oh so heartwarming. I highly recommend reading this book in the cold and rainy months so definitely look for this book when it’s released in February 2025! Thank you to the Penguin Group for sending me this ARC! I look forward to reading many more of Emily Taylor’s books!

In her sophomore effort Emily A. Taylor has another winner in The Otherwhere Post. A unique world that revolves around couriers that can take messages back and forth between different worlds of the same city after the doors that allowed people to go between them was destroyed by a poisonous vine. Maeve, the protagonist of the story, is the daughter of the man blamed for letting the vine loose. She’s about to leave her version of Gloam behind when she receives a message from the post that claims her father was innocent. Maeve decides to find away to be accepted as a trainee at the post so she can find the person who has evidence of her father’s innocence. Along the way she makes friends with some unlikely people and has an immediate chemistry with her mentor Tristan, who also happens to be the postmaster’s son. The mystery element helps keep it interesting and not as dark as some other fantasy novels, and provides several interesting twists and misdirection. Every once in a while it feels a titch on the convoluted side, but I enjoyed the story and characters so much that it was easy to overlook. I can’t wait to see what Taylor comes up with for her next book! A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with this arc for an honest review.

The Otherwhere Post is a delectable fantasy centred around the protagonist, Maeve Abenthy, who struggles to get by and is haunted by the accusations if her father being a notorious murderer.
All alone in a foreign world after the collapse of the gates, with no means, no family and no access to the treasured magic of scriptomancy, Maeve longs to live a free life where she has no worries. That is, until she receives an anonymous, mysterious letter that tells her that her father was innocent.
This book follows Maeve as she infiltrates the Scriptomancy school in an effort to uncover answers that may be long-lost and forgotten. Along the way, she discovers love, friends and her magic.
The magic system of scriptomancy is a fascinating concept that feels fresh and original. The use of ink and writing as both a tool and a weapon opens up countless possibilities, and the author does a fantastic job exploring its limits, consequences, and the ways it can be used to both heal and harm.
While the pacing can occasionally feel uneven, with some sections slowing down in favor of world-building, the rich lore and complex character dynamics keep the reader invested. The world-building itself is a highlight, with each realm feeling distinct and tangible, even though they remain out of reach from one another.
As a book lover who enjoys journalling and writing, this was the perfect read for me. I do hope this author has a sequel planned.

5/5 stars

Maeve's story is so intriguing that it is hard to put down. I love the idea of Scriptomancy (magical writing) and her quest to understand her father's innocence of a heinous crime. The action-packed story is also emotional, and it brought me to tears several times. I can't wait to reread it when it's released!

The Otherwhere Post is by far my favorite book of 2024. I cried twice during this book. I am not someone who cries when I read books. The emotional reaction really confirmed for me, that this book was as good as I felt it was while reading.

This book was an absolutely stunning read. From the first few chapters, I was hooked. I hadn't expected to like it as much as I did, because it’s a dark academia book, but I was sucked in the second Maeve opened the mysterious letter about her father.

Thank you NetGalley and Penguin for the ARC ebook.

The Otherwhere Post
Emily J. Taylor

Seven years before, Maeve Abenthy lost everything: her world, her father, her name.
And she has been on the run ever since.

The beginning felt a bit slow to me but once this book took off it just kept going. The story features magic performed through writing—Scriptomancy—and a school to learn it, Dark Academia, tragedy, friendships, slow-burn romance, and murder and mystery to boot.

I hope there are more Otherworld Post books to come!


Publication Date February 25th, 2025
Penguin Group
G.P. Putnam’s Sons an imprint of Penguin Random House

#TheOtherwherePost #netgalley #arc
#Fantasy #magic #darkacademia #romance #mystery

Absolutely LOVED this novel. My two favorite genres - mystery and fantasy! I loved the dark elements throughout, and the main character was relatable and had great development throughout the novel. Would definitely recommend!

I had never read anything by Ms Taylor before this book, but I am certainly going to search out other novels by her now.!

This is the mystical tale of nineteen-year-old Maeve, whose dead scriptomancer father (one who can write scribings that have magical power) was branded an evil murderer who killed off an entire world. She has spent her life hiding her identity as his daughter, but now is trying to find out who sent her a mysterious letter telling her that her father is innocent.

She manages to fake her way into a school for scribers and couriers, those who write and deliver letters by magical means. There we meet a diverse cast of fascinating characters, not the least of which is the quirkily handsome Tristan, a prodigy at scribing and scriptomancy. Thus begins Maeve's roller coaster of a ride; finding out shocking secrets, running from the constabulary, getting in harm's way time after time, and of course, falling for Tristan.

I had a few quibbles that keep this from being a full on five-star tale (some descriptions of buildings and atmosphere ran on a little too long. Maeve made some decisions that, for a smart girl, made no sense, her roommate Nan wants to be her BFF practically before they even meet, etc). They don't take away from overall enjoyment of the tale, but the writing could use some tightening up in spots.

I was ready for this to end on a cliff hanger, and to prepare myself to wait for the next installment, but this seems to really and truly end, and in a very satisfactory way. I finished the final sentence with a contented sigh, and then vowed to find more reading material by this author.

I loved this book. The story line and world building was very unique, and it kept me wanting more! It had similar vibes to Babel by R.F. Kuang. I would be interested in reading more from this author!

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read "The Otherwhere Post" by Emily J. Taylor! It's a hauntingly beautiful addition to the dark academia genre, weaving together themes of mystery, magic, friendship, love, and the pursuit of knowledge in an atmospheric setting.

The story follows Maeve, who has suffered great tragedies due to her father's crimes. He was responsible for unleashing the Aldervine in Inverly and causing its destruction, thousands of lives lost, families separated, and, as a result, she was placed in an orphanage. As she learns that her father is innocent, she runs from the orphanage, changes her identity, and enlists as an apprentice in the Otherwhere Post to learn more about her father's past life, search for his missing journal, and clues that could prove his innocence. But clearing her father's name means identifying those who are truly guilty of mass murder and destruction - which puts Maeve and her closest friends in danger.

Taylor’s writing is lyrical and immersive, drawing me into this magical scriptomancy world filled with shadowy libraries, ancient tomes, enchanted letters, and magical inks - and the intoxicating allure of forbidden knowledge through special scribing skills. The dark academia atmosphere Taylor creates is exciting and alluring. The university buildings are mysterious, and some are part of a forgotten past. Old libraries, ancient books, clandestine meetings, cemeteries, hidden cabins, slow-burn romance, jumping between worlds, and an intoxicating sense of danger - all make for a mesmerizing read.

Maeve is a complex and vividly rendered character who grapples with her sense of belonging and the heavy weight of her secrets. Not only could those secrets get her killed or locked away, but the entire school would despise her, and the boy she loves would absolutely hate her. Maeve and Tristin's characters are so richly developed, each grappling with their own demons, desires, trust issues, and feelings of isolation. But their need and underlying love for each other kept the pages turning!

The friendship that developed between Nan and Maeve was so beautiful. I loved how Nan never gave up on her and encouraged her to trust others and open her heart. I also loved the relationship between Nan and Shea and how they were all like found family.

I thought this was a captivating YA story and absolutely loved it!

Thank you, #NetGalley, #EmilyJTaylor, #PenguinGroup, and #PenguinYoungReadersGroup, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Having lost her father and her world, Maeve has made a life for herself under different aliases, never staying in one place for very long. Her name puts her in danger, given her father having been the one to have destroyed the world she grew up in. Except maybe he wasn’t the one who destroyed it. Everything changes when Maeve receives an old letter, claiming her father is innocent. Eager to learn more, Maeve poses as an apprentice at The Otherwhere Post, where she meets Tristan, who suspects she isn’t who she says she is right from the start. Will Maeve be able to get the answers she wants while maintaining her secret identity and surviving the dangerous letters sent by someone who wants her to stop her search?

I loved Hotel Magnifique, but I think I loved The Otherworld Post even more. Emily J. Taylor has spun yet another magical tale that keeps you hooked from the first page. It’s a unique world of worlds, filled with mystery and danger. It’s definitely a read I found myself unable to put down.

Maeve is definitely a strong main character, eager and resilient through all the trials thrown her way while she tries to find information on her father’s innocence. I love how she grew throughout the book as well and that she wasn’t the only character we got to see grow and face their fears.

Definitely recommend to anyone who loves a mystery, unique magic systems (this one involves ink), an academic setting and a romance that builds wonderfully! This book will definitely be one I find myself rereading in the future!

Thank you NetGalley, Penguin Group- Penguin’s Young Readers Group, and G.P. Putnam’s Son’s Books for Young Readers for the chance to read this incredible, magical read!

Thank you so much to NetGalley for this book's arc! I thoroughly enjoyed this book!! Emily J. Taylor brought to life a very interesting form of magic and world(s). The magic system was really cool and very unique! I haven't read anything like it. I also loved the characters (Tristan was amazing!!) and appreciated the gradual shift from lone wolf to found family (shout-out to Nan and Shea!) The chemistry and banter between Maeve and Tristan is exactly my cup of tea. Overall, the writing was well-done and I felt like I learned about the world/magic system without feeling info-dumped on. The plot moved very quickly which was great as well!

I know this is an Arc so some typos are to be expected. But there were a few things in particular that I feel should corrected/tightened up before this is published. However, even with the below, I would still rate this book 4.5 stars and can't wait to add it to my collection! I think with the below addressed, it has the potential to be a truly 5/5 star book!

SPOILERS AHEAD-read at your own risk!!
<spoiler>
-Mistake: Near the end, Tristan tells Maeve her story was published by Nan's father's publishing house, the very next day after the false story was printed, But then later, Nan writes Maeve a letter, explaining her father wanted to publish her story (after the events at the Second Library) but she told him no and brought it elsewhere. So there was inconsistency with the source of the publication and the timeline.
-My opinion: I don't think many people (well maybe people who are brand new to fantasy novels) will be shocked by the father's innocence. With that in mind, the extremely thin evidence presented to the world, and Maeve's loving relationship with her father, it struck me as odd that Maeve bought into his guilt so whole-heartedly that she turned to hating him and herself. There was one throwaway line in there about how people said maybe he didn't have malicious intent and I feel like that thread needs to be tugged on a little more, especially in relation to Maeve's feelings about him. I can understand grappling with difficult feelings for someone you love when they mistakenly screw up, and especially on such a large scale. But there is a huge difference between actions accidentally resulting in mass-murder and actually planning/committing mass murder. To me, it seemed the author sort of blurred those lines and had Maeve hate her father without that nuance in there at all. Which doesn't seem believable, especially given their strong relationship. And when Maeve realizes she was wrong all those years, I was surprised she didn't seem to grapple that much with guilt.
-My opinion: It was a little exasperating to read Maeve's growing conviction that (redacting name to reduce spoilers) was the villain behind it all...with absolutely no evidence. When the same exact thing happened to her father. To realize her father was falsely accused and then immediately turn around and be angry enough to want to "slit his throat" for a crime she is assuming he committed? The hypocrisy was a bit staggering. I think the author needs to be softer on this, or somehow acknowledge the irony here.
-My opinion: I have no idea why Maeve trusted (redacting name). Especially when the (redacted name) was around and cleared by Tristan. For someone who doesn't trust easily, it was very strange she felt safe calling for this person, of all people. And there isn't any explanation for it? It just seemed like the quickest route to getting the villain to be revealed. think this part needs to be worked a little more.
-My opinion: A personal nit and I wouldn't be surprised if I was in the minority but it would have been nice to get closure on Cath's death. It is inferred who did it, but never outright explained.
-My opinion: I wish we got to find out more from Sibilla and what she knew about the whole situation. Which would help explain her actions that everyone brought up that led them to suspect her. It was a bit disappointing when it resulted in a dead end (pardon my pun).
-My opinion: This one is also a nit. At the end it is mentioned they believe it will take months to figure out Silver Scribing. But, of course, Tristan figures it out much quicker. Which is not surprising, given how talented he is. What is surprising, however, is that it doesn't appear he was officially a part of the task force working on figuring it out? Seems like a pretty big oversight given his prodigy status? Maybe I missed it? </spoiler>

I want to see a whole series of books in this universe! I really like the style of magic in this world, it's something unique. It's been awhile since I picked up a book and have been unable to put it down. It's very refreshing to see a change up in storytelling and not just following a simple formula.

The mystery and fantasy elements of this books made it extremely fun to read, plus it added some slow burn and found family and I was hooked.

Maeve’s father is accused of causing a catastrophic event, and she has run her entire life to avoid being tied to him. She joins the ranks of a magic courier system to learn more about him and his past.

The magic of this books is really amazing. I love when scribing makes words themselves magical. I wish there was a little bit more world building and magic used. There were just enough twists throughout the plot to keep me on my toes.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in return for an honest review.

The Otherwhere Post
by Emily J. Taylor

What a wonderful adventure this is. While wholly it's own world, this was like reading a more grown-up version of the Harry Potter series. This could be something huge. I enjoyed this tale and hope the author chooses to revisit this world. What wonderful lore.

My only concern is that a lot was included in this story in an abbreviated form. This isn't really a negative. It's just that I enjoy this world so much I'm afraid it was as if the author condensed, say, much of the Potter franchise into a single story. I wish the book were longer. I don't know that story requires it or if I just didn't want to leave.

With some editing and corrections, this will be a fabulous yarn. For me, it's shy of the extremely rare 5-star territory, but it's one of my favorite reads of the year and recent memory. Time will tell.

Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Group, and the author for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

I had such high expectations for this book because I absolutely adored Hotel Magnifique (if you haven’t read Emily first book, please go do so!) and I am thrilled to report, The Otherwhere Post was even better!!!

This story follows Maeve, a young woman who has been hiding her identify for the last 7 years because her father, whom she loved dearly, is blamed for the destruction of one of three known worlds you used to be able to travel to, and the end of inter-world travel between the worlds, cutting off loved ones and the death of many. Maeve herself was left an orphan, narrowly avoiding being trapped in the destroyed world she and her family lived in.

Maeve receives a mysterious letter posted seven years ago from “a friend” who claims her father was innocent of these charges, and Maeve sets off on a journey to figure out who sent the letter and what they know, as she had long since succumbed to the popular opinion that her father was guilty of such destruction. To do this, she sneaks her way into a prestigious training program where couriers are trained in inter-world travel specifically for delivering letters. This ends up being dangerous and uncovers many more secrets, including those of a handsome young courier who is assigned to be her mentor yet seems to know she is not know she claims to be from the get-go.

Anyways, I was on the edge of my seat the whole story, grinning from ear to ear, and just loving every minute of this book. As was the case with Hotel Magnifique, this book is filled with mystery, adventure, romance, and dangerous thrills. Such an easy 5/5 rating and I hope everyone reads this!!