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The Aethereals Duology #1
The Hollow Plane
Love is a weakness the powerful cannot afford.
When Mina Wildfang wakes up in a dark hole beneath the sea, her memories have been erased. The one thing she remembers is who imprisoned her family. The only thing she wants is revenge. But when she escapes, someone has burned her home to the ground-with her family inside. Mina decides if she cannot have vengeance, she will have the truth.
All Ashbourne Claymore wants is to live an honest life as a private investigator. He can't remember his past, and he doesn't want to. When a mysterious new client asks him to murder a woman named Mina Wildfang, he staunchly refuses. But he cannot help but be curious about the woman he was asked to assassinate.
When the two are drawn together by a series of otherworldly fires plaguing the city, the similarities between them are too much to ignore. Desire lights a flame that rivals the inferno coming for them. Can they survive the heat, or will they succumb to the ghosts of their past and let the city burn?
Contains mature themes.
When Mina Wildfang wakes up in a dark hole beneath the sea, her memories have been erased. The one thing she remembers is who imprisoned her family. The only thing she wants is revenge. But when she escapes, someone has burned her home to the ground-with her family inside. Mina decides if she cannot have vengeance, she will have the truth.
All Ashbourne Claymore wants is to live an honest life as a private investigator. He can't remember his past, and he doesn't want to. When a mysterious new client asks him to murder a woman named Mina Wildfang, he staunchly refuses. But he cannot help but be curious about the woman he was asked to assassinate.
When the two are drawn together by a series of otherworldly fires plaguing the city, the similarities between them are too much to ignore. Desire lights a flame that rivals the inferno coming for them. Can they survive the heat, or will they succumb to the ghosts of their past and let the city burn?
Contains mature themes.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2023
121 people are currently reading
5533 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
December 14, 2023
Maybe this author doesn’t work for me? There’s something about the writing style/story telling that just doesn’t flow right. I wanted to like this. I did find myself enjoying the first half, then I just stopped caring. All the ingredients were there, but it ended up falling flat. The relationships felt forced. And for someone who was treated horrifically by her family and society her whole life, she sure was quick to trust and love total strangers that she just met. Idk…I ended up skimming the last 20% just so I could finish. I’m sure others will love it. Unfortunately, I did not.
November 22, 2023
✨THE HOLLOW PLANE✨ ARC Review of one of my favorite new books !!!!
Y’all. Okay. I know it’s no secret that I’m absolutely in love with Allison but I swear it’s like her books were made for me. The Immortal Orders is one of my favorite trilogies of all time, and now I KNOW this duology is going to join it because it was…everything.
As always, the worldbuilding is STUNNING. Mina, our FMC, and Poe, a new friend, are just…stunning in their neurodivergent rep. I felt SO SEEN. If you’re neurospicy, you’re going to love this. If you’re not - I feel like I’d make you read this anyway, because it’s SUCH good rep and I think it’d give you new perspective.
Of course, there’s also balls to the wall plot lmao and all the wonderful twists and turns I’ve learned to expect from Allison. We have:
- fae & immortals & witches
- high fantasy (amazing magic)
- enemies to strangers to lovers (long story)
- gaslamp setting (steampunk adjacent)
- animal companions (MORPHEUUUSSSS)
- found family (that I would die for)
- super creatively reimagined tropes (!!)
This was 10/10 exactly the kind of book I ADORE and I *implore* you to pre-order and or just pick it up okay?? Okay. Thank u.
(Honest review in exchange for an ARC copy of this book!!)
Y’all. Okay. I know it’s no secret that I’m absolutely in love with Allison but I swear it’s like her books were made for me. The Immortal Orders is one of my favorite trilogies of all time, and now I KNOW this duology is going to join it because it was…everything.
As always, the worldbuilding is STUNNING. Mina, our FMC, and Poe, a new friend, are just…stunning in their neurodivergent rep. I felt SO SEEN. If you’re neurospicy, you’re going to love this. If you’re not - I feel like I’d make you read this anyway, because it’s SUCH good rep and I think it’d give you new perspective.
Of course, there’s also balls to the wall plot lmao and all the wonderful twists and turns I’ve learned to expect from Allison. We have:
- fae & immortals & witches
- high fantasy (amazing magic)
- enemies to strangers to lovers (long story)
- gaslamp setting (steampunk adjacent)
- animal companions (MORPHEUUUSSSS)
- found family (that I would die for)
- super creatively reimagined tropes (!!)
This was 10/10 exactly the kind of book I ADORE and I *implore* you to pre-order and or just pick it up okay?? Okay. Thank u.
(Honest review in exchange for an ARC copy of this book!!)
December 4, 2023
"The punishment for remembering had been forgetting again—and, of course, the oubliette." This first line of Gaslamp fantasy romance The Hollow Plane had me intrigued right from the start!
Magic, high-society, private investigators, undercover missions, amnesia, and secrets; what more could you ask for? Oh, yes - love interests that will make your heart sing with joy and weep in despair, with a bit of spice added to the mix too! Dark Night Golden Dawn author Allison Carr Waechter has created another fantastic fantasy world and novel.
I loved the characters and found family of Carr Waechter's previous series, The Immortal Orders, so much so that I wasn't expecting to feel even more attached to The Hollow Plane core four, but I absolutely am! You will love Mina, Ash, Poe, and Skye too.
Mina was a brilliant FMC; smart, kind and determined. I loved her representation of chronic pain and that, especially in a fantasy book, it is not magically fixed. I also loved that she is a neurodivergent character. She felt so very real and relatable. And Ash, who doesn't like a MFC who'd rather be in bed with a novel than at a society event? Though maybe there's more to his past than meets the eye...👀. Add in tenacious Poe and honourable Skye, to round off an incredible four.
The Hollow Plane had great LGBTQ+ characters, and I liked that it was a novel where LGBTQ+ and non-binary characters and relationships were an inherently normal part of the world. Morpheus, a fey cat, may well be my new favourite feline character with his very cat-like behaviour! On a more serious note, toxic and abusive parent-child relationships are discussed, and so is the joy of discovering the love and kindness of found family.
There was a lot of new information in the finale, which I've not quite wrapped my head around yet.
Can we have the second book in the duology soon, pretty please?
Magic, high-society, private investigators, undercover missions, amnesia, and secrets; what more could you ask for? Oh, yes - love interests that will make your heart sing with joy and weep in despair, with a bit of spice added to the mix too! Dark Night Golden Dawn author Allison Carr Waechter has created another fantastic fantasy world and novel.
I loved the characters and found family of Carr Waechter's previous series, The Immortal Orders, so much so that I wasn't expecting to feel even more attached to The Hollow Plane core four, but I absolutely am! You will love Mina, Ash, Poe, and Skye too.
Mina was a brilliant FMC; smart, kind and determined. I loved her representation of chronic pain and that, especially in a fantasy book, it is not magically fixed. I also loved that she is a neurodivergent character. She felt so very real and relatable. And Ash, who doesn't like a MFC who'd rather be in bed with a novel than at a society event? Though maybe there's more to his past than meets the eye...👀. Add in tenacious Poe and honourable Skye, to round off an incredible four.
The Hollow Plane had great LGBTQ+ characters, and I liked that it was a novel where LGBTQ+ and non-binary characters and relationships were an inherently normal part of the world. Morpheus, a fey cat, may well be my new favourite feline character with his very cat-like behaviour! On a more serious note, toxic and abusive parent-child relationships are discussed, and so is the joy of discovering the love and kindness of found family.
There was a lot of new information in the finale, which I've not quite wrapped my head around yet.
Can we have the second book in the duology soon, pretty please?
December 5, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫
An imaginative take on star crossed lovers
What happens when enemies turn into lovers but are cursed to forget each other? And what happens if they start to remember?
The Hollow Plane takes place within Sirin, in a decadent world of high society inspired by art nouveau. The story centers on Mina, an Oscarovi (witch) and Ash, a Vilhari (fey). They must work together to find the culprits behind her family’s death and uncover the mysterious entity setting magical fires throughout the land.
They both feel an instant and gravitational pull to each other despite never having met before…or so they believe. As secrets and memories are uncovered, are Mina and Ash fated to repeat the past?
Themes/tropes:
🗝️ Dual POV
🗝️ Star crossed lovers
🗝️ Cursed love, magic
🗝️ Amnesia
🗝️ Found family
🗝️ High society intrigue
🗝️ Slow burn
🗝️ Ends in a cliffhanger
“For me, it is like I've always known you”
“I claimed your soul, and you mine”
“I want to be with you. Only you. And all else that comes after that”
The Hollow Plane is a masterful blending of fantasy romance, gaslamp, and mystery. This book incorporates everything I love about fantasy romance: exquisite world building, engaging dialogue, searing passion, beloved characters, and unique magical elements (witches, fey, familiars, elemental spirits!).
This story explores the complexity of relationships with oneself and others. We learn of Mina’s emotional and physical pain but also witness her growth and determination. We fall in love with a swoon worthy male and friends who become family. So much happens in the book and I’m still mourning the absence of these characters until the next installment The Ravaged Dark releases 🥹
Wistful and heartfelt, The Hollow Plane weaves an intricate and spectacular tale of betrayal and self-healing while introducing an epic love story that transcends time and place.
**I received a free e-ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you Allison Carr Waechter for the opportunity!**
An imaginative take on star crossed lovers
What happens when enemies turn into lovers but are cursed to forget each other? And what happens if they start to remember?
The Hollow Plane takes place within Sirin, in a decadent world of high society inspired by art nouveau. The story centers on Mina, an Oscarovi (witch) and Ash, a Vilhari (fey). They must work together to find the culprits behind her family’s death and uncover the mysterious entity setting magical fires throughout the land.
They both feel an instant and gravitational pull to each other despite never having met before…or so they believe. As secrets and memories are uncovered, are Mina and Ash fated to repeat the past?
Themes/tropes:
🗝️ Dual POV
🗝️ Star crossed lovers
🗝️ Cursed love, magic
🗝️ Amnesia
🗝️ Found family
🗝️ High society intrigue
🗝️ Slow burn
🗝️ Ends in a cliffhanger
“For me, it is like I've always known you”
“I claimed your soul, and you mine”
“I want to be with you. Only you. And all else that comes after that”
The Hollow Plane is a masterful blending of fantasy romance, gaslamp, and mystery. This book incorporates everything I love about fantasy romance: exquisite world building, engaging dialogue, searing passion, beloved characters, and unique magical elements (witches, fey, familiars, elemental spirits!).
This story explores the complexity of relationships with oneself and others. We learn of Mina’s emotional and physical pain but also witness her growth and determination. We fall in love with a swoon worthy male and friends who become family. So much happens in the book and I’m still mourning the absence of these characters until the next installment The Ravaged Dark releases 🥹
Wistful and heartfelt, The Hollow Plane weaves an intricate and spectacular tale of betrayal and self-healing while introducing an epic love story that transcends time and place.
**I received a free e-ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you Allison Carr Waechter for the opportunity!**
January 16, 2024
Well, I loved the concept and even the story, until I didn't.
I went into this with so much excitement and hopes for a good emotional rollercoaster, but someway around 50% or so, this became tedious and I just didn't want to keep going. I love Ash and the rest of the crew, but Mina is sooo annoying. And the fact that for the first half of this book NOTHING happens, didn't really help. Like, seriously, the big chunk of the first half is just the events of ONE DAY. Maybe two, I'm not sure anymore.
I don't know, I wanted to love this, but maybe I picked it up at the wrong time, but it didn't really work for me. It wasn't bad, really, and if you enjoy a martyr complex as the main plot of a story, you might actually like this one. I just couldn't stand our girl, Mina.
Also, the fact that I couldn't definite between the Immortal Orders and this world and it's characters, was confusing. I know the two worlds are connected and it was intentional, but somehow it didn't work for me here.
Rating: ⭐⭐
Spice Meter: 🌶️
Chemistry: 🔥🔥
I went into this with so much excitement and hopes for a good emotional rollercoaster, but someway around 50% or so, this became tedious and I just didn't want to keep going. I love Ash and the rest of the crew, but Mina is sooo annoying. And the fact that for the first half of this book NOTHING happens, didn't really help. Like, seriously, the big chunk of the first half is just the events of ONE DAY. Maybe two, I'm not sure anymore.
I don't know, I wanted to love this, but maybe I picked it up at the wrong time, but it didn't really work for me. It wasn't bad, really, and if you enjoy a martyr complex as the main plot of a story, you might actually like this one. I just couldn't stand our girl, Mina.
Also, the fact that I couldn't definite between the Immortal Orders and this world and it's characters, was confusing. I know the two worlds are connected and it was intentional, but somehow it didn't work for me here.
Rating: ⭐⭐
Spice Meter: 🌶️
Chemistry: 🔥🔥
November 30, 2023
As I sit here trying to scrape up the remains of my mind that Allison has blown, I’m going to do my very best to put into words a review to convince all of you lovely beings to add this book to your TBR, immediately.
🫖 TROPES & THEMES 🫖
✔️ Found Family
✔️ animal companions
✔️ mystery, intrigue, and so many twists
✔️ fey, immortals, witches, and so many others
✔️ the richest world building and setting omggg
✔️ enemies/strangers/lovers 😏 shuffled
✔️ slow burn 🔥
✔️ neurodivergent rep
✔️ trauma, pain, so much heavy stuff so TW but also IT WAS INCREDIBLE 😭😭😭
I said it before and I’ll say it again, Allison’s way with words is unparalleled. She masterfully whips up the most richly detailed and unique worlds for her readers to dive into. Immediately I was thrown in and completely captivated by this story.
The found family trope in this book had me feeling the warm fuzzies. The pain and devastation our FMC Wilhelmina (Mina) and MMC Ash went through made that found family theme so much sweeter. I was an emotional wreck in my feels over it all. Her first series in this world, The Immortal Order, while the found family theme was there - it was almost on the opposite spectrum if that makes sense. With a loving family, special friends, etc. this one? They quite literally rose from the ashes of a broken family and meshed this new one together and it was more precious than any other found family trope I’ve ever read.
The TWISTS?! I’m still reeling. I’ll prob be thinking about it for weeks. So many twists and turns, I was hooked and couldn’t put this book down.
The slow burn romance was so sweet, tension filled and also devastating. I need MORE. 🙏
This story is a powerful one, and Allison literally knocked my two brain cells out with this banger of a duet. ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR ✍️✍️✍️ NOW!!!!
🫖 TROPES & THEMES 🫖
✔️ Found Family
✔️ animal companions
✔️ mystery, intrigue, and so many twists
✔️ fey, immortals, witches, and so many others
✔️ the richest world building and setting omggg
✔️ enemies/strangers/lovers 😏 shuffled
✔️ slow burn 🔥
✔️ neurodivergent rep
✔️ trauma, pain, so much heavy stuff so TW but also IT WAS INCREDIBLE 😭😭😭
I said it before and I’ll say it again, Allison’s way with words is unparalleled. She masterfully whips up the most richly detailed and unique worlds for her readers to dive into. Immediately I was thrown in and completely captivated by this story.
The found family trope in this book had me feeling the warm fuzzies. The pain and devastation our FMC Wilhelmina (Mina) and MMC Ash went through made that found family theme so much sweeter. I was an emotional wreck in my feels over it all. Her first series in this world, The Immortal Order, while the found family theme was there - it was almost on the opposite spectrum if that makes sense. With a loving family, special friends, etc. this one? They quite literally rose from the ashes of a broken family and meshed this new one together and it was more precious than any other found family trope I’ve ever read.
The TWISTS?! I’m still reeling. I’ll prob be thinking about it for weeks. So many twists and turns, I was hooked and couldn’t put this book down.
The slow burn romance was so sweet, tension filled and also devastating. I need MORE. 🙏
This story is a powerful one, and Allison literally knocked my two brain cells out with this banger of a duet. ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR ✍️✍️✍️ NOW!!!!
November 27, 2023
Allison can do NO WRONG. I am convinced.
November 21, 2023
THIS BOOK. Y'all - when I tell you that my jaw hit the floor NUMEROUS times, the end had me shrieking, and I love these characters with my whole heart and soul, I MEAN IT.
As always, Allison's stunning worldbuilding is matched by her exciting plot and her beautiful, messy characters. I find pieces of myself in everyone she writes. I feel SEEN when I'm reading one of her stories and this is no exception. It's gaslamp setting combined with the fantastical elements of a fantasy series make for such a gorgeous, intriguing world. Also, THE REP? Queer-normative world with neuroodivergent baddies everywhere you look? Sign me UP.
This book feels like a breath of fresh air in the romantasy book space. It's a unique story that feels like a disruption to the status quo (in the best way). No one can manipulate tropes like Allison Carr Waechter, and man oh man does she manipulate these tropes so that they are reimagined in ways you haven't read before. The first half of this book was cozy and fun, and the second half had me on the edge of my seat. I'm absolutely ravenous for book two already - do yourself a favor and read this book (while you're at it, the cover and map are some of the most beautiful artwork I've ever seen so may as well grab physical copies in addition to those kindle versions).
As always, Allison's stunning worldbuilding is matched by her exciting plot and her beautiful, messy characters. I find pieces of myself in everyone she writes. I feel SEEN when I'm reading one of her stories and this is no exception. It's gaslamp setting combined with the fantastical elements of a fantasy series make for such a gorgeous, intriguing world. Also, THE REP? Queer-normative world with neuroodivergent baddies everywhere you look? Sign me UP.
This book feels like a breath of fresh air in the romantasy book space. It's a unique story that feels like a disruption to the status quo (in the best way). No one can manipulate tropes like Allison Carr Waechter, and man oh man does she manipulate these tropes so that they are reimagined in ways you haven't read before. The first half of this book was cozy and fun, and the second half had me on the edge of my seat. I'm absolutely ravenous for book two already - do yourself a favor and read this book (while you're at it, the cover and map are some of the most beautiful artwork I've ever seen so may as well grab physical copies in addition to those kindle versions).
December 1, 2023
THIS BOOK. OH MY GOSH.
Allison always blows me away with her books and this book blew my fricking mind.
I am beyond honored to have received an arc of The Hollow Plane. This might be one of the best books I’ve read all year.
The world she created is beautiful. I adored the high society setting. The characters are so complex and the found family they’ve created is utter perfection. I didn’t want to put this book down.
Mina and Ash are everything and more. I will be thinking about this book for a long time.
Allison always blows me away with her books and this book blew my fricking mind.
I am beyond honored to have received an arc of The Hollow Plane. This might be one of the best books I’ve read all year.
The world she created is beautiful. I adored the high society setting. The characters are so complex and the found family they’ve created is utter perfection. I didn’t want to put this book down.
Mina and Ash are everything and more. I will be thinking about this book for a long time.
April 15, 2024
This book is a gaslamp fantasy romance that's absolutely loaded with drama and intrigue. It's got a cool, unique setting and is super well written. The characters are deep and really well fleshed out. Plus, the main romance feels fresh and the female friendships add a lot of heart to the story. I totally loved Mina, the main character. The book is spicy, sultry, and packed with gorgeous descriptions that really bring the world and its people to life. All characters are the kind you love, morally grey, complex, and full of surprises. The twist of memory loss ramps up the mystery and makes the revelations all the more satisfying to uncover. If you're into fantasy romance, star-crossed lovers, and a slow-burn pace, you should definitely check this book out. I'm looking forward to the sequel!
February 12, 2025
It was a tricky read. I feel like there was a huge chunk that I am missing to this story.
December 18, 2024
2.5 stars, rounded up to 3.
I got this book from my subscription to the “Bookish Box” for 2024. When they announced the sequel, “The Ravaged Dark” to be on sale in January 2025, I rushed to read my copy, since it’s a gorgeous edition of the book and I wanted to be sure if I would be continuing on with the series.
My verdict is… on eBook/Kindle. But not enough to warrant the special edition.
This book is… okay.
I struggle to find words to describe it because it wasn’t that I did not find it intriguing, or entertaining. But that there were aspects of it that persisted from start to end that I found difficult to engross myself into.
For one, amnesia is a big part of this story—for both our characters (Mina and Ash). That means that half of the time, I’m just as lost as they are. The internal monologues are confused and clueless. Speaking in foreshadowing details that I found to be detailed, but “out of place”. I struggled to anchor these nuggets in my overall comprehension of the story/plot. Leaving me riddled with more questions than answers, the deeper we got.
There’s also a trifling amount of needless details and commentary on aspects that are (I assume) meant to flesh out the world for us. Yet they just came across as excessive. Things like the character’s own opinions on clothes, food, the people and weather. It’s not that these interjections weren’t written poetically… but it felt jarring to know about these kinds of random comments when I was already struggling to piece together the direction of our mystery.
The cast and characters can be boiled down to the core four—Poe, Skye, Mina, Ash (and technically Morpheus, who is by far my favourite). But damn! There are a lot of names.
Not even kidding—there were so many other characters and names introduced that I really had trouble remembering the point of the ensemble. Who was important? Who wasn’t? Why were they so many people? I don’t know who I’m meant to remember and why!!
The “found family” aspect was also far too abrupt. I love a good found family trope for individuals whom have been abused and lacking in love their whole lives, but the “unexplained connection/kindship” that Poe and Mina have, or Skye and Ash have… felt so forced. It just *was*, and as a reader, you were forced to acknowledge and accept this so easily. Reminded basically at every interaction that I almost wondered if this book was going to turn into a polyamorous relationship between the core four.
There was no struggle, no reason or rhyme to why Poe and Mina should/would trust each other so readily. They became “sisters” within the first few days of meeting one another that I couldn’t wrap my head around their connection and constantly felt like the author was just forcing us to consider their bond as something genuine.
It did not.
And on that matter… the romance?
The romance between our main leads is another thing I struggled with. Clearly, they have history. And no spoilers, but you do find out why there’s “more to it”, for them… but the whiplash of sexual attraction and their own personal grievances was too jarring. I did not believe the connection at all. It would have been more tasteful if the author had included flashback scenes. That would have helped not only our understanding of the current timeline and motives, without compromising the character’s amnesia/ignorance… but it would have really sold the romance more!
I’m sure there are a few other thoughts I have about the nuances of this book that are floating in my head, but much like my ability to comprehend the entire book cohesively, my mind is too tired to articulate them, at this moment.
Overall, I wanted to like this book a lot more than I ended up feeling. I went in with no expectations, and barely looked into the backstory of the book, so that I would be “surprised”. Now I wish I had done some background research, because it’s left me more bereft than intrigued.
I got this book from my subscription to the “Bookish Box” for 2024. When they announced the sequel, “The Ravaged Dark” to be on sale in January 2025, I rushed to read my copy, since it’s a gorgeous edition of the book and I wanted to be sure if I would be continuing on with the series.
My verdict is… on eBook/Kindle. But not enough to warrant the special edition.
This book is… okay.
I struggle to find words to describe it because it wasn’t that I did not find it intriguing, or entertaining. But that there were aspects of it that persisted from start to end that I found difficult to engross myself into.
For one, amnesia is a big part of this story—for both our characters (Mina and Ash). That means that half of the time, I’m just as lost as they are. The internal monologues are confused and clueless. Speaking in foreshadowing details that I found to be detailed, but “out of place”. I struggled to anchor these nuggets in my overall comprehension of the story/plot. Leaving me riddled with more questions than answers, the deeper we got.
There’s also a trifling amount of needless details and commentary on aspects that are (I assume) meant to flesh out the world for us. Yet they just came across as excessive. Things like the character’s own opinions on clothes, food, the people and weather. It’s not that these interjections weren’t written poetically… but it felt jarring to know about these kinds of random comments when I was already struggling to piece together the direction of our mystery.
The cast and characters can be boiled down to the core four—Poe, Skye, Mina, Ash (and technically Morpheus, who is by far my favourite). But damn! There are a lot of names.
Not even kidding—there were so many other characters and names introduced that I really had trouble remembering the point of the ensemble. Who was important? Who wasn’t? Why were they so many people? I don’t know who I’m meant to remember and why!!
The “found family” aspect was also far too abrupt. I love a good found family trope for individuals whom have been abused and lacking in love their whole lives, but the “unexplained connection/kindship” that Poe and Mina have, or Skye and Ash have… felt so forced. It just *was*, and as a reader, you were forced to acknowledge and accept this so easily. Reminded basically at every interaction that I almost wondered if this book was going to turn into a polyamorous relationship between the core four.
There was no struggle, no reason or rhyme to why Poe and Mina should/would trust each other so readily. They became “sisters” within the first few days of meeting one another that I couldn’t wrap my head around their connection and constantly felt like the author was just forcing us to consider their bond as something genuine.
It did not.
And on that matter… the romance?
The romance between our main leads is another thing I struggled with. Clearly, they have history. And no spoilers, but you do find out why there’s “more to it”, for them… but the whiplash of sexual attraction and their own personal grievances was too jarring. I did not believe the connection at all. It would have been more tasteful if the author had included flashback scenes. That would have helped not only our understanding of the current timeline and motives, without compromising the character’s amnesia/ignorance… but it would have really sold the romance more!
I’m sure there are a few other thoughts I have about the nuances of this book that are floating in my head, but much like my ability to comprehend the entire book cohesively, my mind is too tired to articulate them, at this moment.
Overall, I wanted to like this book a lot more than I ended up feeling. I went in with no expectations, and barely looked into the backstory of the book, so that I would be “surprised”. Now I wish I had done some background research, because it’s left me more bereft than intrigued.
December 12, 2023
This will be a spoiler-free review.
Allison Carr Waechter’s world building is the stuff of… well, fantasies! I absolutely loved diving in and unearthing the beauty that is Sirin. I crave to be unnerved by but ultimately fall in love with Orchid House. I long to get lost and rescued, if needed, in the dark districts of the undercity. And because I was once a die-hard Gossip Girl reader and watcher, I truly wish I could not-so-silently judge Pravhna’s social society. I was already bought into the multiverse having devoured The Immortal Orders trilogy earlier this year (you do not need to have read that to jump into this), but now I want to buy land here in Waechter’s dreamy writing and invest in its stock market.
I’ve always been a sucker for found family. I just want to help these characters uncover all the answers to their questions because that’s what you do for the people you love. And after reading about and feeling their wants, needs, and frustrations, I love them like they were my own family. I thoroughly enjoyed being surprised at first by Mina’s (FMC) line of thinking and then growing to know how her mind works. I love how dynamic and selfish she is. I cannot get enough of instant friendships (because that’s how I make friends) and loved Mina’s bond with Poe. I want to have tea with them and just listen to them process and solve something together.
Plus, The Hollow Plane’s got:
A curious case of amnesia everyone has
Cursed love
A delicious slow burn that totally pays off
Terrifying, but ultimately sweet felines
Witches and Magic
Did I mention Amnesia?
Winged people, dear reader. And Bird people too for good measure
This book vibed with my soul. The only downside is that it ended at all. But don’t worry about me, I’ll find relief from it’s ending with the sequel coming out soon!
It feels important to mention that this author clearly understands the inner workings of cat minds. Morpheus has the exact voice I would imagine a cat having, and have given to many cats I’ve been lucky enough to pet.
I received The Hollow Plane as an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review, but please know I bought it and made all my friends do the same.
Allison Carr Waechter’s world building is the stuff of… well, fantasies! I absolutely loved diving in and unearthing the beauty that is Sirin. I crave to be unnerved by but ultimately fall in love with Orchid House. I long to get lost and rescued, if needed, in the dark districts of the undercity. And because I was once a die-hard Gossip Girl reader and watcher, I truly wish I could not-so-silently judge Pravhna’s social society. I was already bought into the multiverse having devoured The Immortal Orders trilogy earlier this year (you do not need to have read that to jump into this), but now I want to buy land here in Waechter’s dreamy writing and invest in its stock market.
I’ve always been a sucker for found family. I just want to help these characters uncover all the answers to their questions because that’s what you do for the people you love. And after reading about and feeling their wants, needs, and frustrations, I love them like they were my own family. I thoroughly enjoyed being surprised at first by Mina’s (FMC) line of thinking and then growing to know how her mind works. I love how dynamic and selfish she is. I cannot get enough of instant friendships (because that’s how I make friends) and loved Mina’s bond with Poe. I want to have tea with them and just listen to them process and solve something together.
Plus, The Hollow Plane’s got:
A curious case of amnesia everyone has
Cursed love
A delicious slow burn that totally pays off
Terrifying, but ultimately sweet felines
Witches and Magic
Did I mention Amnesia?
Winged people, dear reader. And Bird people too for good measure
This book vibed with my soul. The only downside is that it ended at all. But don’t worry about me, I’ll find relief from it’s ending with the sequel coming out soon!
It feels important to mention that this author clearly understands the inner workings of cat minds. Morpheus has the exact voice I would imagine a cat having, and have given to many cats I’ve been lucky enough to pet.
I received The Hollow Plane as an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review, but please know I bought it and made all my friends do the same.
June 7, 2024
I love the worlds Allison Carr Waechter's creates -- and this one is no exception. This one sizzles with female rage, morally grey characters with memory loss, and a story of cursed love.
The characters:
I love Mina as a FMC. She is fun, off-beat, and inquisitive in all the best ways. And of course Ash is a delicious MMC who is tall, mysterious, but a humorous, sweet side. Watching Mina and Ash constantly be drawn to each other for reasons they do not understand is so fun to read. And by the end...oh are there fireworks. Who doesn't love enemies to lovers to enemies again.
I loved the side characters -- Poe, Skye, and Morpheus. They just added to the amazing found family trope that I love to see in my tropes. Plus, Allison creates these worlds that celebrate neuro-divergent characters as well as queer normative worldbuilding.
The plot:
The "what the hell is happening" moments will put you right into the chaos with the MCs. I love that Allison creates this mysterious plot of what happened to the memories our MCs. It was interesting to watch them experience the world as they knew them (for the first time all over again). Additionally, it is fun to watch this mystery unravel about who they are, the world they exist in, the political power grabs happening, and the changing power dynamics in this society. I NEED to know what happens next.
4.5/5
The characters:
I love Mina as a FMC. She is fun, off-beat, and inquisitive in all the best ways. And of course Ash is a delicious MMC who is tall, mysterious, but a humorous, sweet side. Watching Mina and Ash constantly be drawn to each other for reasons they do not understand is so fun to read. And by the end...oh are there fireworks. Who doesn't love enemies to lovers to enemies again.
I loved the side characters -- Poe, Skye, and Morpheus. They just added to the amazing found family trope that I love to see in my tropes. Plus, Allison creates these worlds that celebrate neuro-divergent characters as well as queer normative worldbuilding.
The plot:
The "what the hell is happening" moments will put you right into the chaos with the MCs. I love that Allison creates this mysterious plot of what happened to the memories our MCs. It was interesting to watch them experience the world as they knew them (for the first time all over again). Additionally, it is fun to watch this mystery unravel about who they are, the world they exist in, the political power grabs happening, and the changing power dynamics in this society. I NEED to know what happens next.
4.5/5
September 7, 2024
I’m torn on what to say. The world building is beautiful and the magic system is interesting, but I really struggled with the pacing and terminology. I read a lot of fantasy and I’m familiar with many tropes, but I kept getting pulled from the book to look up new terms I hadn’t heard before - only to not be able to find meanings that would make sense in the context of the book. Im not talking about the complexities of the world itself and the races of beings in it either, but the casual use of world specific terms not mentioned in the glossary at the front (or her website which i found at the end of the book).
I I felt like information was revealed thought out the book in a way that didn’t make sense to me as the reader. I kept having to go back to reread sections because it felt like I missed something, but that wasn’t the case. Still, when the pacing wasn’t confusing it was entertaining and the characters are good.
Bonus points for seamless and diverse representation of characters, overall dark themes, and beautiful artwork. Minus points for every review I saw on Reddit/booktok that said slow burn. Star crossed lovers yes, slow burn absolutely not.
I I felt like information was revealed thought out the book in a way that didn’t make sense to me as the reader. I kept having to go back to reread sections because it felt like I missed something, but that wasn’t the case. Still, when the pacing wasn’t confusing it was entertaining and the characters are good.
Bonus points for seamless and diverse representation of characters, overall dark themes, and beautiful artwork. Minus points for every review I saw on Reddit/booktok that said slow burn. Star crossed lovers yes, slow burn absolutely not.
December 5, 2023
If you loved Allison Carr Waechter's trilogy, The Immortal Orders, then you will love The Hollow Plane! It's got fated mates, amnesia, rich history, and a found family like none other. Seriously, you'll love it.
I don't know how she did it, but the tension that she created with Mina and Ashbourne is unreal. I swear, this slow burn had me cackling over the most trivial interactions. I loved all of our characters and they make up such a great little family. The idea that our main characters have this unexplainable attraction/connection, but don't know why or how because their memories were compromised is brilliant!!! It was so much fun to read and unravel the meaning of it all. The plot is very gripping and mysterious with twists and turns. Plus, there's great dialogue.
My biggest issue with this book is the pacing. It starts out very fast paced and hooks you immediately. You're a little confused about the world and society, but that's expected since our main characters are dealing with some amnesia. The pacing shifts about halfway through because it has a few info-dump moments that threw me off. They felt a little abrupt and took me out of the plot. I think if you didn't read The Immortal Orders, you'll be very confused in this book.
Allison Carr Waechter has a knack for writing character dynamics and interactions and I am excited (and also scared) to read the next installment!
*I received and e-arc in exchange for an honest review*
I don't know how she did it, but the tension that she created with Mina and Ashbourne is unreal. I swear, this slow burn had me cackling over the most trivial interactions. I loved all of our characters and they make up such a great little family. The idea that our main characters have this unexplainable attraction/connection, but don't know why or how because their memories were compromised is brilliant!!! It was so much fun to read and unravel the meaning of it all. The plot is very gripping and mysterious with twists and turns. Plus, there's great dialogue.
My biggest issue with this book is the pacing. It starts out very fast paced and hooks you immediately. You're a little confused about the world and society, but that's expected since our main characters are dealing with some amnesia. The pacing shifts about halfway through because it has a few info-dump moments that threw me off. They felt a little abrupt and took me out of the plot. I think if you didn't read The Immortal Orders, you'll be very confused in this book.
Allison Carr Waechter has a knack for writing character dynamics and interactions and I am excited (and also scared) to read the next installment!
*I received and e-arc in exchange for an honest review*
May 2, 2024
Gaslamp, romance, mystery, and fantasy meet in THE HOLLOW PLANE, book 1 in The Aethereals Duology by Allison Carr Waechter. A gorgeous and rich world serves the perfect backdrop for Mina and Ash, two people who are trying to save the world. There’s danger aplenty, intrigue, mystery, and a beautiful love story that endures, despite the odds stacked against it.
This book had so many tropes I adored, plus it had a world that felt like some of my favorite historical time periods. Gaslamp and steampunk are two of my favorites, so I knew for certain I would enjoy that aspect. The romance, hands down though, had to be my favorite part. Fated mates, star-crossed lovers, destined to be together, but there’s something in place that makes them forget about one another. There’s an instant attraction between them though that neither can explain, and it was such a joy watching their relationship shift and change.
This is book 1 of 2, so the story ends on quite the unfinished note. I can’t wait to dive in to book 2 to see how this story concludes. Definitely pick this one up if you’re a fan of:
💫 Star-crossed lovers
💫 Cursed love
💫 Fated mates
💫 Fae romance
💫 A twist on enemies-to-lovers
💫 Found family
💫 Animal companions
💫 Gaslamp fantasy
This book had so many tropes I adored, plus it had a world that felt like some of my favorite historical time periods. Gaslamp and steampunk are two of my favorites, so I knew for certain I would enjoy that aspect. The romance, hands down though, had to be my favorite part. Fated mates, star-crossed lovers, destined to be together, but there’s something in place that makes them forget about one another. There’s an instant attraction between them though that neither can explain, and it was such a joy watching their relationship shift and change.
This is book 1 of 2, so the story ends on quite the unfinished note. I can’t wait to dive in to book 2 to see how this story concludes. Definitely pick this one up if you’re a fan of:
💫 Star-crossed lovers
💫 Cursed love
💫 Fated mates
💫 Fae romance
💫 A twist on enemies-to-lovers
💫 Found family
💫 Animal companions
💫 Gaslamp fantasy
January 17, 2025
R E V I E W
The Hollow Plane by Allison Carr Waechter
☆☆☆.5
This was my first book by this author, and I was immediately impressed with the writing style, the world-building, and the sheer imagination involved in crafting a plot such as this.
All this to say, this story is quite convoluted. But, if you are happy to be immersed in a gas-lamp fantasy where fae, witches, and other magical creatures co-exist and everyone has a secret, then by all means, pick up this book and enjoy the ride.
For me, I enjoyed the found-family elements well enough, and the insta-lust-to-love between Mina and Ash didn't phase me since it was clear from the outset that these two had dealings prior to their respective amnesia. I did, however, struggle to follow the plot at times, never really knowing what Mina actually wanted to achieve for her part in their investigation. A lot of the events just did not culminate in my mind to create a bigger picture in this 'whodunit' tale, and I felt like I was constantly on the back foot. This might stem from the fact that not a lot really happened within this story, aside from Ash and Mina's memories slowly returning to them unaided until we reach the last few chapters. And the information that we do learn towards the end is a lot, considering the basic gist is that our main characters are a kind of intergalactic Romeo and Juliet, punished for their forbidden love (despite being pushed to seduce one another) and then summarily cursed to forget one another.
I thought the ending was dramatic, and I look forward to seeing how this all ends in the second instalment of the duology.
The Hollow Plane by Allison Carr Waechter
☆☆☆.5
This was my first book by this author, and I was immediately impressed with the writing style, the world-building, and the sheer imagination involved in crafting a plot such as this.
All this to say, this story is quite convoluted. But, if you are happy to be immersed in a gas-lamp fantasy where fae, witches, and other magical creatures co-exist and everyone has a secret, then by all means, pick up this book and enjoy the ride.
For me, I enjoyed the found-family elements well enough, and the insta-lust-to-love between Mina and Ash didn't phase me since it was clear from the outset that these two had dealings prior to their respective amnesia. I did, however, struggle to follow the plot at times, never really knowing what Mina actually wanted to achieve for her part in their investigation. A lot of the events just did not culminate in my mind to create a bigger picture in this 'whodunit' tale, and I felt like I was constantly on the back foot. This might stem from the fact that not a lot really happened within this story, aside from Ash and Mina's memories slowly returning to them unaided until we reach the last few chapters. And the information that we do learn towards the end is a lot, considering the basic gist is that our main characters are a kind of intergalactic Romeo and Juliet, punished for their forbidden love (despite being pushed to seduce one another) and then summarily cursed to forget one another.
I thought the ending was dramatic, and I look forward to seeing how this all ends in the second instalment of the duology.
April 28, 2024
4.75⭐️
This was such a beautifully written book. It was a mystery wrapped in a complex fantasy world with a fantastic cast of characters. I was constantly wanting to know more, waiting for more details to be revealed. There was not one plot twist that I was able to predict. I’m obsessed with the found family in this one and the wild fey cat was a purrfect addition (sorry, I had to). The chronic pain rep, anxiety rep, and sapphic love aspects all wove perfectly into the plot. I absolutely cannot wait to read book 2 in this duology and will definitely be adding The Immortal Orders trilogy to my TBR to learn more about this universe!
Thank you to BOMM and Allison for this review copy, I am eternally grateful!
This was such a beautifully written book. It was a mystery wrapped in a complex fantasy world with a fantastic cast of characters. I was constantly wanting to know more, waiting for more details to be revealed. There was not one plot twist that I was able to predict. I’m obsessed with the found family in this one and the wild fey cat was a purrfect addition (sorry, I had to). The chronic pain rep, anxiety rep, and sapphic love aspects all wove perfectly into the plot. I absolutely cannot wait to read book 2 in this duology and will definitely be adding The Immortal Orders trilogy to my TBR to learn more about this universe!
Thank you to BOMM and Allison for this review copy, I am eternally grateful!
January 23, 2024
Do you love the starcrossed lovers trope but are looking for a unique twist on it??? Look no further than The Hollow Plane!!! Its star crossed lovers who are cursed to FORGET each other. And wow does it make for the most intriguing story. And that’s just ONE of the tropes that is reimagined in the most interesting way in this book.
Mysterious fires being set around the city bring Mina and Ash together with a common goal of finding the culprit. The found family was adorable! I love how they were forced together but they became such good friends and would die for each other. The friendship between Poe and Mina made me happy because she finally had a female friend she could trust. It was so unexpected when I started this book but it was a pleasant surprise.
Also Mina’s snarky comments to the people who wronged her in the past had me cracking up. You go girl lol.
The world building is very intense at the beginning, I was struggling to keep track of the different species and terms related to their world, but once I got into the book things started to make a lot more sense. I also think the reader is supposed to be a bit confused at the beginning because Mina doesn’t have her memories? But I could totally be wrong and it was just me lol.
Also, there’s a cat companion who can TALK. Morpheus’ attitude had me cracking up. He’s so sassy and grumpy and absolutely doesn’t give a crap but also does at the same time. A talking cat is what I didn’t know I needed in a book!
If you are looking for a refreshing gaslamp fantasy book with societal games, corrupt politicians, suspense and mystery, a new take on enemies to lovers, neurodivergent rep, and so so so much more, read The Hollow Plane!
Sooooo many things came together and started to make sense at the end. I’m so intrigued to see what will happen next.
Things to expect
- Gaslamp romantasy
- Dual POV
- Cat companion
- Private detectives
- Amnesia
- A new take on enemies to lovers!
- A twist on starcrossed lovers
- Neurodivergent rep
Mysterious fires being set around the city bring Mina and Ash together with a common goal of finding the culprit. The found family was adorable! I love how they were forced together but they became such good friends and would die for each other. The friendship between Poe and Mina made me happy because she finally had a female friend she could trust. It was so unexpected when I started this book but it was a pleasant surprise.
Also Mina’s snarky comments to the people who wronged her in the past had me cracking up. You go girl lol.
The world building is very intense at the beginning, I was struggling to keep track of the different species and terms related to their world, but once I got into the book things started to make a lot more sense. I also think the reader is supposed to be a bit confused at the beginning because Mina doesn’t have her memories? But I could totally be wrong and it was just me lol.
Also, there’s a cat companion who can TALK. Morpheus’ attitude had me cracking up. He’s so sassy and grumpy and absolutely doesn’t give a crap but also does at the same time. A talking cat is what I didn’t know I needed in a book!
If you are looking for a refreshing gaslamp fantasy book with societal games, corrupt politicians, suspense and mystery, a new take on enemies to lovers, neurodivergent rep, and so so so much more, read The Hollow Plane!
Sooooo many things came together and started to make sense at the end. I’m so intrigued to see what will happen next.
Things to expect
- Gaslamp romantasy
- Dual POV
- Cat companion
- Private detectives
- Amnesia
- A new take on enemies to lovers!
- A twist on starcrossed lovers
- Neurodivergent rep
January 17, 2025
Yes.
I will be getting the second book 📚
This one takes a bit of patience, slooooow burn, but I am here for it. I had a few moments where I had to just trust the process because I knew nothing of this world and the fmc (having huge memory issues).
This was my first Allison Car Waechter book - based on a comment the author made at the end of the book, I'm guessing Ashbourne is a returning character. So I'll need to add that to my TBR.
I will be getting the second book 📚
This one takes a bit of patience, slooooow burn, but I am here for it. I had a few moments where I had to just trust the process because I knew nothing of this world and the fmc (having huge memory issues).
This was my first Allison Car Waechter book - based on a comment the author made at the end of the book, I'm guessing Ashbourne is a returning character. So I'll need to add that to my TBR.
July 22, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ Such a unique story in so many ways! The setting took me a bit to really nail down, and I was worried I’d get distracted by the frequent addition of new side characters, but I enjoyed the character relationships and was glad to see no “magical solution” for a chronic condition.
November 5, 2024
”It’s not yet time for you to follow us. You must see your end before you can return to the beginning.”
This is it. This is the book I’ve been waiting for. Don’t get me wrong, I loved every book I’ve read this year. But this one …
I’m in AWE.
I’m in ADORATION.
I’m in WORSHIP.
THIS is fantasy in all its glory ✨
THIS is how you drop the mic on readers. Allison Carr Waechter is a goddess and I’ll kneel at her altar for the rest of my life 🏛️
What to expect
🌌 Unique and rich universe with lore, an incredible magic system and queer normative worldbuilding
💜 Morally gray FMC who must choose between vengeance and truth #femalerage
🖤 Morally grey MMC who’d like to be a cinnamon roll, but just can’t manage it
⚛️ Neurodivergent besties
🌪️ Memory loss
💥 Chronic pain rep
🐱 A talking cat #Morpheus
🫶🏻 Found family
The Aethereals is her third series and it occurs in the same universe and same time frame as The Immortal Orders and Outlaws of Interra. But every series can be read independently.
The worldbuilding is beyond sublime 👏🏻
The magic system is a masterpiece 👏🏻
The characters are magnificently unique 👏🏻
The plot is to die for 👏🏻
This is it. This is the book I’ve been waiting for. Don’t get me wrong, I loved every book I’ve read this year. But this one …
I’m in AWE.
I’m in ADORATION.
I’m in WORSHIP.
THIS is fantasy in all its glory ✨
THIS is how you drop the mic on readers. Allison Carr Waechter is a goddess and I’ll kneel at her altar for the rest of my life 🏛️
What to expect
🌌 Unique and rich universe with lore, an incredible magic system and queer normative worldbuilding
💜 Morally gray FMC who must choose between vengeance and truth #femalerage
🖤 Morally grey MMC who’d like to be a cinnamon roll, but just can’t manage it
⚛️ Neurodivergent besties
🌪️ Memory loss
💥 Chronic pain rep
🐱 A talking cat #Morpheus
🫶🏻 Found family
The Aethereals is her third series and it occurs in the same universe and same time frame as The Immortal Orders and Outlaws of Interra. But every series can be read independently.
The worldbuilding is beyond sublime 👏🏻
The magic system is a masterpiece 👏🏻
The characters are magnificently unique 👏🏻
The plot is to die for 👏🏻
April 30, 2024
"The Hollow Plane" by Allison Carr Waechter was a captivating fantasy story filled with mystery, magic, and great characters. Allison does a beautiful job with world building and creating intricate plot twists, keeping me hooked and immersed in the fantasy world from the start.
Mina and Poe stole my heart, and it was so nice to see neurodivergent representation within a fantasy book. The plot is a rollercoaster of surprises and twists that kept me guessing until the very end.
Overall, "The Hollow Plane" delves into themes of cursed love, self-discovery, & found family, making it a truly immersive read. If you're a fan of fantasy with heart, this book is a must-read. I will definitely be reading the next book!
Thank you BOMM & Allison Carr Waechter for providing me with this review copy. All opinions are my own. 🖤
Mina and Poe stole my heart, and it was so nice to see neurodivergent representation within a fantasy book. The plot is a rollercoaster of surprises and twists that kept me guessing until the very end.
Overall, "The Hollow Plane" delves into themes of cursed love, self-discovery, & found family, making it a truly immersive read. If you're a fan of fantasy with heart, this book is a must-read. I will definitely be reading the next book!
Thank you BOMM & Allison Carr Waechter for providing me with this review copy. All opinions are my own. 🖤
September 4, 2024
I felt like I was missing out on a lot of inside jokes lol to the point where I was like…. Is this not the first book in the series??
Anyways, I liked the characters and all that but I am more confused than ever.
Anyways, I liked the characters and all that but I am more confused than ever.
July 23, 2024
I thought this was very well written but the plot was clunky and confusing. There were too many terms that sounded similar to each other and too many things going on for me to follow
April 22, 2024
Review coming soon.
June 5, 2024
4.5
I absolutely loved this story! Allison has created a unique, richly imaginative, and intriguing fantasy world. This gaslamp fantasy has elements of magic, high society intrigue, underworld crime syndicates, and found family vibes. It weaves together a truly star-crossed lovers story and a journey of self discovery.
If you've read The Immortal Orders series by ACW previously, you will notice some familiar faces in this new duology. The Hollow Plane is a dual POV book that follows Mina Wildfang and Ashbourne Claymore. Mina is suffering from amnesia after being punished by her witch family, but she can't recall exactly why. When she finds their country home destroyed in a fire, she vows to find out what happened to them and who is responsible. Mina pairs up with a mysterious stranger Poe, in whom she finds a deeply devoted friend and considerable ally. Ashbourne, a fey with unique magical abilities, also has no memory of the time before he was discovered outside his partner Skye's cabin in the woods. Ash and Skye are called in by the underworld syndicates to discover the identity of the mysterious crime lord Chopard, and find themselves paired up with Mina and Poe. As the group delves deeper into high society and the criminal underworld, Ash and Mina cannot deny their attraction, and deeper connection to one another. But things have a way of unravelling, and as they both begin to recall bits and pieces of their past, they discover reasons they should remain apart.
I loved this new world - it was just so unique with witches, fey, and a history of invaders from another world. There are many bird like humanoid creatures, elemental beings, and huge cats that can speak mind to mind. The world is super queer-normative, and our characters also display some neurodivergence. I love how this is all so normalized and treated with care in this book. There is a lot to learn in the first half of the book, and a lot of worldbuilding takes place early on. We also follow Mina and Ash, who not the most reliable narrators as they cannot recall much of their past. So we are learning along with them. The second half of the book kicks off with some big reveals, and lots of action as the plot picks up the pace. If you've read TIO, you will begin to make some important connections as the story moved forward. This is a new standalone series, but is interconnected to TIO in some really interesting ways.
Overall, I loved this book, and I loved the extension of some familiar characters from TIO while also introducing some wonderfully rich new characters that I can't wait to read more. Allison leaves us with a pretty exciting ending, and I am so ready for book 2!!
Thank you so much to Allison Car Waechter for the eARC of this book! I loved it!
I absolutely loved this story! Allison has created a unique, richly imaginative, and intriguing fantasy world. This gaslamp fantasy has elements of magic, high society intrigue, underworld crime syndicates, and found family vibes. It weaves together a truly star-crossed lovers story and a journey of self discovery.
If you've read The Immortal Orders series by ACW previously, you will notice some familiar faces in this new duology. The Hollow Plane is a dual POV book that follows Mina Wildfang and Ashbourne Claymore. Mina is suffering from amnesia after being punished by her witch family, but she can't recall exactly why. When she finds their country home destroyed in a fire, she vows to find out what happened to them and who is responsible. Mina pairs up with a mysterious stranger Poe, in whom she finds a deeply devoted friend and considerable ally. Ashbourne, a fey with unique magical abilities, also has no memory of the time before he was discovered outside his partner Skye's cabin in the woods. Ash and Skye are called in by the underworld syndicates to discover the identity of the mysterious crime lord Chopard, and find themselves paired up with Mina and Poe. As the group delves deeper into high society and the criminal underworld, Ash and Mina cannot deny their attraction, and deeper connection to one another. But things have a way of unravelling, and as they both begin to recall bits and pieces of their past, they discover reasons they should remain apart.
I loved this new world - it was just so unique with witches, fey, and a history of invaders from another world. There are many bird like humanoid creatures, elemental beings, and huge cats that can speak mind to mind. The world is super queer-normative, and our characters also display some neurodivergence. I love how this is all so normalized and treated with care in this book. There is a lot to learn in the first half of the book, and a lot of worldbuilding takes place early on. We also follow Mina and Ash, who not the most reliable narrators as they cannot recall much of their past. So we are learning along with them. The second half of the book kicks off with some big reveals, and lots of action as the plot picks up the pace. If you've read TIO, you will begin to make some important connections as the story moved forward. This is a new standalone series, but is interconnected to TIO in some really interesting ways.
Overall, I loved this book, and I loved the extension of some familiar characters from TIO while also introducing some wonderfully rich new characters that I can't wait to read more. Allison leaves us with a pretty exciting ending, and I am so ready for book 2!!
Thank you so much to Allison Car Waechter for the eARC of this book! I loved it!
July 13, 2024
I had zero expectations going into this book club read and let me tell you… I throughly enjoyed this book!! It is such an original story concept and magic system - with twists and turns I didn’t see coming.
I don’t want to list too many tropes because I feel like they can be a bit of a spoiler in this case- but the found family theme is so wonderful in this story that it just has to be highlighted.
Ash and Mina are 🔥- I love everything about their relationship and I cannot wait to dive into book 2 to see where this goes!
Happy reading 🩵
I don’t want to list too many tropes because I feel like they can be a bit of a spoiler in this case- but the found family theme is so wonderful in this story that it just has to be highlighted.
Ash and Mina are 🔥- I love everything about their relationship and I cannot wait to dive into book 2 to see where this goes!
Happy reading 🩵
August 13, 2024
This book is book 1 in the Aethereals Duology.
This book is high fantasy with incredible and detailed world building. So detailed in fact, that it took me a while to digest. But I loved every minute of it! There is a mysterious element throughout the book, in large part thanks to our FMC having big time memory loss, and also the foggy city they live in full of faceless enemies.
This book is for you if you love:
*memory loss
*nerodivergent main characters
*queer characters
*magical mystery
*slow burn
*found family
*animal companions (and sassy ones, to boot!)
*rich fantasy worlds
This book is high fantasy with incredible and detailed world building. So detailed in fact, that it took me a while to digest. But I loved every minute of it! There is a mysterious element throughout the book, in large part thanks to our FMC having big time memory loss, and also the foggy city they live in full of faceless enemies.
This book is for you if you love:
*memory loss
*nerodivergent main characters
*queer characters
*magical mystery
*slow burn
*found family
*animal companions (and sassy ones, to boot!)
*rich fantasy worlds
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