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Adventures in Levena #2
Matsdotter and Adrastus: When A Human Falls In Love With An Archdemon
Elochian Adrastus is the pinnacle of demon nobility, and he hates it.
When he’s not leading an aristocracy, in therapy, or rebelling against his birthright by running the most famous bar in Levena, he’s solving a millennia old mystery with his newfound friends. He’s particularly fond of the man he’s only known as an author, learning that there's much more to the human than meets the eye.
For the first time in over a century, Elochian feels tempted by the prospect of finding his own happy ending. He’s also terrified that any future endeavors will end in death, like they did not so long ago.
Quentin Matsdotter has one goal in life, and that’s to blend in. Unfortunately for him, that’s impossible when you’re a certifiable genius, an author, and are friends with some of the most unique people in the town. He’s got everything a man could want, except for someone to call his own.
Quentin hasn’t been able to trust his heart to anyone again after experiencing an abusive relationship years ago, but there’s no mistaking how he feels for the enigmatic archdemon. As the snow builds, so does their friendship, and it’s only a matter of time before they open their hearts to each other.
If only the past didn’t come back to haunt them.
Be prepared to stand up for what you believe in, reveal the truth, and protect those you love, no matter the cost.
When he’s not leading an aristocracy, in therapy, or rebelling against his birthright by running the most famous bar in Levena, he’s solving a millennia old mystery with his newfound friends. He’s particularly fond of the man he’s only known as an author, learning that there's much more to the human than meets the eye.
For the first time in over a century, Elochian feels tempted by the prospect of finding his own happy ending. He’s also terrified that any future endeavors will end in death, like they did not so long ago.
Quentin Matsdotter has one goal in life, and that’s to blend in. Unfortunately for him, that’s impossible when you’re a certifiable genius, an author, and are friends with some of the most unique people in the town. He’s got everything a man could want, except for someone to call his own.
Quentin hasn’t been able to trust his heart to anyone again after experiencing an abusive relationship years ago, but there’s no mistaking how he feels for the enigmatic archdemon. As the snow builds, so does their friendship, and it’s only a matter of time before they open their hearts to each other.
If only the past didn’t come back to haunt them.
Be prepared to stand up for what you believe in, reveal the truth, and protect those you love, no matter the cost.
477 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2024
6 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Aelina Isaacs
11 books90 followersAelina (he/they) is a fantasy punk author with young witch vibes, endless coffee stains, and a craving for adventure. Aelina’s work is heavily influenced by their love of the outdoors and a need for more inclusive fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 29, 2023
The first of this series blew me away and this sequel proved this whole series is going to be phenomenal.
The romance in this book starts off in a fun way where the friendship becoming romantic between the main characters was already slightly teased to us in the previous book Phantom & Rook. It was fun to start with intense glances from the start as I am ever an impatient reader. And all the excitement I felt over these interactions were mirrored in the main characters friends which was all too fun.
This romance feels like a slow burn and at the same time not at all. Slow because they are very hesitant opening up and solidifying naming their relationship, but not so much at the same time because they both fall so hard and fast. There was a great balance between these two factors that made it feel like I couldn't wait for them to open up but also it not going to slow through seeing both their POV.
And gosh was this a good romance. It had so much sweetness and care for each other I ate it right up. Both of them are such sweet beans that want to hug and hold the other as soon as possible and damn do I agree with that. They each struggle with giving in to that though and following them with that was beautiful. Some good character growth where they realize that they are allowed to be loved is always the best. The author knew how to execute this and did it perfectly and it made my heart melt. When they then finally came together, I bet ya I was bawling hard.
There was also a lot of plot outside of the romance not as much regarding them. This gave us a lot of world building after the first book and how things ended with the main characters. I love love loved Arlo and Thatch having such a space in this book. Often second books in romance series have the previous protagonists more as cameos or as friends just sometimes there. But the story of Phantom & Rook was more than essential to this sequel and Arlo had a big presence in this book. From him being a trusted friend to many, someone trying to resolve world problems and grieving the way the last book ended. I wouldn't want him in this book any other way.
But too a big plot point revolved around Tobias with him becoming an archangel and how that revolves around Elochian. I thought it really awesome how this plot point unfolded and became something beautiful. Around the issues with this is a lot of community care and love, and gosh do I love some good found family care. It was great to see Thitwhisle be such a safe space still and I wish I could have one of those in my neighborhood. Too it was fun to see another of such spots come into the book with Primo's being a new introduced place. This plot point also gave us a lot of drama within the big arch demon and angel communities that definitely feel a bit hostile, so that contrast was great to see.
Talking about archdemon issues I have to mention Micheal too. Yes this is a romantasy with Elochian and Quentin being the protagonists. But Michael is so extremely close to Elochian it feels like a queerplatonic relationship in my opinion. Him being just as much a part of their configuration. It was thus then so great to see Quentin grow closer with Michael too and just take care of each other. He is a character that has become very dear to me and I hope whoever reads this review before picking up the book will open up their heart for them too.
I already said once that this book made me cry, but just mentioning that once is not enough. Aelina Isaacs is a master of the craft of making me sob, which definitely makes me come back to his books more and more. I know this book will release in a few days and thus isn't even out yet. But I'll gladly take any kind of content he can give me until the third book because damn I am here for it. I read Phantom and Rook twice this year, the novella When Witches Sing three times even. I am majorly invested in this universe and gosh I love it.
Concluding I hope anyone who reads this will pick this up as soon as possible after reading Phantom and Rook, and if you haven't read that yet please delve into this universe. I love it with all my heart and only hope more people will discover it's beauty.
I received an eARC and this was my honest review.
The romance in this book starts off in a fun way where the friendship becoming romantic between the main characters was already slightly teased to us in the previous book Phantom & Rook. It was fun to start with intense glances from the start as I am ever an impatient reader. And all the excitement I felt over these interactions were mirrored in the main characters friends which was all too fun.
This romance feels like a slow burn and at the same time not at all. Slow because they are very hesitant opening up and solidifying naming their relationship, but not so much at the same time because they both fall so hard and fast. There was a great balance between these two factors that made it feel like I couldn't wait for them to open up but also it not going to slow through seeing both their POV.
And gosh was this a good romance. It had so much sweetness and care for each other I ate it right up. Both of them are such sweet beans that want to hug and hold the other as soon as possible and damn do I agree with that. They each struggle with giving in to that though and following them with that was beautiful. Some good character growth where they realize that they are allowed to be loved is always the best. The author knew how to execute this and did it perfectly and it made my heart melt. When they then finally came together, I bet ya I was bawling hard.
There was also a lot of plot outside of the romance not as much regarding them. This gave us a lot of world building after the first book and how things ended with the main characters. I love love loved Arlo and Thatch having such a space in this book. Often second books in romance series have the previous protagonists more as cameos or as friends just sometimes there. But the story of Phantom & Rook was more than essential to this sequel and Arlo had a big presence in this book. From him being a trusted friend to many, someone trying to resolve world problems and grieving the way the last book ended. I wouldn't want him in this book any other way.
But too a big plot point revolved around Tobias with him becoming an archangel and how that revolves around Elochian. I thought it really awesome how this plot point unfolded and became something beautiful. Around the issues with this is a lot of community care and love, and gosh do I love some good found family care. It was great to see Thitwhisle be such a safe space still and I wish I could have one of those in my neighborhood. Too it was fun to see another of such spots come into the book with Primo's being a new introduced place. This plot point also gave us a lot of drama within the big arch demon and angel communities that definitely feel a bit hostile, so that contrast was great to see.
Talking about archdemon issues I have to mention Micheal too. Yes this is a romantasy with Elochian and Quentin being the protagonists. But Michael is so extremely close to Elochian it feels like a queerplatonic relationship in my opinion. Him being just as much a part of their configuration. It was thus then so great to see Quentin grow closer with Michael too and just take care of each other. He is a character that has become very dear to me and I hope whoever reads this review before picking up the book will open up their heart for them too.
I already said once that this book made me cry, but just mentioning that once is not enough. Aelina Isaacs is a master of the craft of making me sob, which definitely makes me come back to his books more and more. I know this book will release in a few days and thus isn't even out yet. But I'll gladly take any kind of content he can give me until the third book because damn I am here for it. I read Phantom and Rook twice this year, the novella When Witches Sing three times even. I am majorly invested in this universe and gosh I love it.
Concluding I hope anyone who reads this will pick this up as soon as possible after reading Phantom and Rook, and if you haven't read that yet please delve into this universe. I love it with all my heart and only hope more people will discover it's beauty.
I received an eARC and this was my honest review.
December 9, 2023
The author sent this to me as an ARC. This is my honest opinion.
The story picks up after Thatch leaves in Phantom and Rook. Quentin is a human teacher who loses his job because he refuses to sign an anti-witch petition. Elochian is an archdemon trying to keep his clan together and stop his power hungry rival. And they only have eyes for each other.
This book!!! I read it in one night. I couldn’t stop once I started. The story is very well paced and descriptive without bogging the reader down with details, and I was immediately sucked into the characters’ lives.
I love the little bits of humor in the adorably awkward moments and Isaacs has so many ways of catching me off guard with descriptions that shouldn’t have worked but were so strong and perfect. Few authors make me truly despise the villains so well while still creating the villains’ point of view (it was still wrong!)
Learning more about Thatch worked beautifully into the story without taking away from Quentin and Elochian because the details were woven very well into their story.
As a note: the author includes very explicit trigger warnings. Read them.
These are my favorite parts, and the rest of this review contains spoilers:
• I want to be like Idina in about fifteen years
• Arlo giving Elochian the sex talk made me laugh out loud
• The sheer amount of courage Quentin possessed to sacrifice himself so Leon wouldn’t win (cried)
• The River as Kavelli reveal was chef’s kiss (yelled at the book)
• Elochian’s wings are so expressive and honestly are almost their own character
• Michael is my hero
• I cried quite a bit, most noticeably when Elochian rescued Quentin and killed poor Tina, who only existed because an egomaniac tried to play God
• The way Loch changes from his quasi human to full demon self is written in such a matter of fact way that it’s both chilling and awesome when you realize that he shouldn’t actually do it, but he will literally go to every length and stop at nothing to save Quentin.
• I love, love, love that Tisha is written as a strong matriarch who is terrifying and domineering when she has to be but acknowledges that Elochian’s love and wellbeing are equally important
• Michael crying made me cry again. Okay, seriously, I have cried more reading this book than any other in at least 10 years. But how they just assume responsibility for Quentin to the point of hovering him like a mother hen is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. Like they’re saying, “you’re my master’s person, so you’re MY person too.”
• Isaacs seriously had to put in that Arlo may not know what it’s like to be the little spoon because Thatch and Arlo probably didn’t get more than one night together? I ONLY HAVE SO MANY TEARS!!!
• And of course we have Tobias explaining exactly what River (Quentin’s abuser and who he was running from) did and what Quentin’s sacrifice meant, and no, please make me cry some more
• I will say, as someone who was abused, it’s not easy to read about the abuser repenting. That’s not a criticism— it’s just not something that ever happened to me unless he wanted something. On the one hand, having River’s soul devoured until he’s forced to live with his madness is a nice touch. On the other, it’s not enough. And the way Quentin reacts to that news is absolutely spot on.
• The whole Arlo acting without Loch’s consent was well done too. Quentin knew it was wrong, and I really, really hate that the choice was taken away from him. But would Elochian have forgiven Arlo if Arlo hadn’t done it? It’s such a gray area, and it was beautifully written.
The story picks up after Thatch leaves in Phantom and Rook. Quentin is a human teacher who loses his job because he refuses to sign an anti-witch petition. Elochian is an archdemon trying to keep his clan together and stop his power hungry rival. And they only have eyes for each other.
This book!!! I read it in one night. I couldn’t stop once I started. The story is very well paced and descriptive without bogging the reader down with details, and I was immediately sucked into the characters’ lives.
I love the little bits of humor in the adorably awkward moments and Isaacs has so many ways of catching me off guard with descriptions that shouldn’t have worked but were so strong and perfect. Few authors make me truly despise the villains so well while still creating the villains’ point of view (it was still wrong!)
Learning more about Thatch worked beautifully into the story without taking away from Quentin and Elochian because the details were woven very well into their story.
As a note: the author includes very explicit trigger warnings. Read them.
These are my favorite parts, and the rest of this review contains spoilers:
• I want to be like Idina in about fifteen years
• Arlo giving Elochian the sex talk made me laugh out loud
• The sheer amount of courage Quentin possessed to sacrifice himself so Leon wouldn’t win (cried)
• The River as Kavelli reveal was chef’s kiss (yelled at the book)
• Elochian’s wings are so expressive and honestly are almost their own character
• Michael is my hero
• I cried quite a bit, most noticeably when Elochian rescued Quentin and killed poor Tina, who only existed because an egomaniac tried to play God
• The way Loch changes from his quasi human to full demon self is written in such a matter of fact way that it’s both chilling and awesome when you realize that he shouldn’t actually do it, but he will literally go to every length and stop at nothing to save Quentin.
• I love, love, love that Tisha is written as a strong matriarch who is terrifying and domineering when she has to be but acknowledges that Elochian’s love and wellbeing are equally important
• Michael crying made me cry again. Okay, seriously, I have cried more reading this book than any other in at least 10 years. But how they just assume responsibility for Quentin to the point of hovering him like a mother hen is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. Like they’re saying, “you’re my master’s person, so you’re MY person too.”
• Isaacs seriously had to put in that Arlo may not know what it’s like to be the little spoon because Thatch and Arlo probably didn’t get more than one night together? I ONLY HAVE SO MANY TEARS!!!
• And of course we have Tobias explaining exactly what River (Quentin’s abuser and who he was running from) did and what Quentin’s sacrifice meant, and no, please make me cry some more
• I will say, as someone who was abused, it’s not easy to read about the abuser repenting. That’s not a criticism— it’s just not something that ever happened to me unless he wanted something. On the one hand, having River’s soul devoured until he’s forced to live with his madness is a nice touch. On the other, it’s not enough. And the way Quentin reacts to that news is absolutely spot on.
• The whole Arlo acting without Loch’s consent was well done too. Quentin knew it was wrong, and I really, really hate that the choice was taken away from him. But would Elochian have forgiven Arlo if Arlo hadn’t done it? It’s such a gray area, and it was beautifully written.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2024
(I was provided an eARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.)
Matsdotter and Adrastus is a cozy and beautiful story of healing from trauma, love and rediscovering what being loved and loving is. Isaacs returns to their cosy queer fantasy series Adventures in Levana with this lovely addition. The stroy follows Quentin who is a writer with a teaching degree that is just out of a traumatic relationship and Elochian who is an Archangel is damned with being a demon noble. both in a process of healing, the two take on a journey on healing their pasts and seeking better futures. Both the characters and the story took me in from the start. With a great opening, the story grabbed me and had me wondering what would happen in the times I wasn't reading. I see myself coming back to the series in the future as well.
Reading about Quentin's toxic past relationship hit a cord in me that felt good being hit. It feels catarthic reading about people getting out of such relationships and finding someone who is there to love them wihtout consequences. His worries in what Elochian might be thinking about him especially hit hard. Elochian's demisexual discoveries and his demisexuality also hit me in a great way. It troubles me to express the way I am happy about it because it mirrored how I felt. Both of their experiences, in different ways, felt like something I was hoping to come to terms with myself or had come to terms but that I needed to handle.
I am happy to have read this book and this series and am looking forward to reading more books by Aelina Isaacs and continuing this series. (And whenever I get the chance to get a physical copy, I want to annotate this book.)
Matsdotter and Adrastus is a cozy and beautiful story of healing from trauma, love and rediscovering what being loved and loving is. Isaacs returns to their cosy queer fantasy series Adventures in Levana with this lovely addition. The stroy follows Quentin who is a writer with a teaching degree that is just out of a traumatic relationship and Elochian who is an Archangel is damned with being a demon noble. both in a process of healing, the two take on a journey on healing their pasts and seeking better futures. Both the characters and the story took me in from the start. With a great opening, the story grabbed me and had me wondering what would happen in the times I wasn't reading. I see myself coming back to the series in the future as well.
Reading about Quentin's toxic past relationship hit a cord in me that felt good being hit. It feels catarthic reading about people getting out of such relationships and finding someone who is there to love them wihtout consequences. His worries in what Elochian might be thinking about him especially hit hard. Elochian's demisexual discoveries and his demisexuality also hit me in a great way. It troubles me to express the way I am happy about it because it mirrored how I felt. Both of their experiences, in different ways, felt like something I was hoping to come to terms with myself or had come to terms but that I needed to handle.
I am happy to have read this book and this series and am looking forward to reading more books by Aelina Isaacs and continuing this series. (And whenever I get the chance to get a physical copy, I want to annotate this book.)
August 7, 2024
RTC when my brain has recovered from this book
Update:
Well, it's been months and clearly, I still haven't recovered, so make of that what you will.
I absolutely loved this and it put me through all the emotions, and I ceied so much, both happy tears and sad tears, but also angry tears and "oh my God, this is so beautiful" tears. There was also a lot of anxiety, especially towards the end. But yes, read this. But maybe not on public transport.
Update:
Well, it's been months and clearly, I still haven't recovered, so make of that what you will.
I absolutely loved this and it put me through all the emotions, and I ceied so much, both happy tears and sad tears, but also angry tears and "oh my God, this is so beautiful" tears. There was also a lot of anxiety, especially towards the end. But yes, read this. But maybe not on public transport.
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January 20, 2025Elochian Adrastus from Matsdotter and Adrastus: When An Archdemon Falls In Love With A Human is demisexual!
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January 2, 2024
Happy Release Day to Matsdotter and Adrastus!
Oh my heart, this was just beautiful! Matsdotter and Adrastus is a perfect love letter to the beauty of finding your people.
This book had me on an emotional roller coaster!! Full of awkwardly adorable moments, chuckle out loud humor, swoon worthy romance, beautifully written hard topics, all of the feels, new characters, old favorites and one heck of an adventure! I absolutely loved the second book in the Adventures in Levena series and cannot wait to see what happens next!
♥️ Romance
🔍 Mystery
🫶 Found Family
🪽 Archdemon x Human
✨ Magical Realism
🎭 All of the Emotions
Phantom and Rook was one of my top reads of 2023 and Matsdotter and Adrastus is looking like a top read of 2024!
Thank you so much Neshama Publishing for the advanced copy!
*Please check TW before reading 📚
January 2, 2024
I love this book so much. The relationships, the fantasy aspect, the magic system, all of it. It deals with stressful adult topics then brings you back with some cosy feels and found family. Highly recommend.
January 15, 2024
As soon as sparks flew between Quentin and Elochian in the first book I just knew their story would be cute and fluffy. Well, their romance at least. Because some of what they went through individually wasn’t so fluffy and just 🥺. I need one of those Arlo hugs.
January 11, 2024
As a new but avid fan of Isaacs' work— as well as a fan of dark academia, queer romance, and found family— saying I was eager to read Matsdotter and Adrastus is an understatement.
I would say the dark academia tag is more aesthetic than thematic. Q is a teacher and professor, and occasionally we see his Thatch project, but the book sets aside the more traditional dark academia themes to prioritize communal action, romance, and healing — all of which ended up being its greatest strengths.
That being said, the things that have stuck with me the most are the plot construction, the way that mental illness and recovery mix with the romance, and the deeply relational nature of Levena.
PLOT
The plot of the book is deftly crafted, and I am again impressed by Isaacs' ability to integrate the social struggles of the world with the interpersonal relationships and romantic development. The rising anti-witch movement, Loch's demon-world conflicts, and Q's abuser all dovetail BEAUTIFULLY. The stakes feel high and real, and so as the plot develops, it's impossible not to get caught up in the emotional journey of the primary characters. The conflicts left open by the end make me even more eager to read what's next in the series.
There were character moments that felt like they could have been stronger with a little more development. Spoilers for this next part:
In short, the big plot circuits were closed masterfully, but a few of the smaller ones short-circuited for me.
LOVE AND RECOVERY:
The book is dedicated, "For the people with gaps in their memories and holes in their hearts; our trauma doesn't own us, but one day we will own it. Together." And it truly lives up to that dedication.
The content warnings exist very much with purpose, as we get some intense content right off the bat. The things warned for are thematically salient within the story, and in no way felt gratuitous or thoughtless to me.
There's an inevitability to the romance that is caramel-warm and sweet. Q and Elochian orbit around each other from the beginning of the book, and are very obviously taken with each other. They are also reckoning with complex internal and external situations pushing to keep them apart.
The things that stand in the way of their romance felt real and thoughtful— namely Elochian's family responsibilities and the emotional toll they take; and Q's abuser's reappearance and consequential resurgence in trauma-related symptoms. I struggle to find of a way of saying how meaningful the characterization of Quentin is without revealing too much of myself, so suffice to say, his responses are viscerally familiar and inspire deep feelings of care from me. Seeing the two leads find creative ways to choose each other amidst these developments was beautiful and rewarding.
Also, as a demisexual person, I felt like Elochian's demisexuality was written in a way that felt recognizable, thoughtful, and substantive. The way he and Q navigated their differences read as incredibly loving amidst the miscommunications, which felt very real to me.
I would like to content warn for the term "psychotic" being used in a derogatory fashion by the narrator. Details in the following spoilered section for those concerned.
CHARACTERS AND RELATIONSHIPS:
Once again, the relational nuance that is characteristic of Isaacs' work continues to twine gently around my heart.
Lindsey was a delight to get to know better. Her love for and defense of Q off the bat was heartwarming beyond belief, and seemed indicative of the way relationships work in this world. She saw an old acquaintance clearly and immediately took action. Obviously, this could have backfired spectacularly, but it didn't. I'm kind of obsessed with her honestly. I really liked her and Kitt and Dusan and would love to see more of the women in Levena. Also, Michael is a gem and a star, and I'd love to see more of them as well.
The strength of even minor characters is possibly my absolute favorite part of Isaacs' work. People are important to each other in a way that feels true to life, and that I don't see in romance very often. The found family structure of the misfits feels familiarly akin to my real-life queer found family. Q and Arlo's friendship is nothing short of deeply loving. Some of my favorite moments of the novel contained the two of them just talking and existing together. Similarly, Loch's acceptance that Tobias is his universe-mandated "Other Half", and that they get to choose what that means for their personal lives was a breath of fresh air. Elochian's responsibility to his family and his people are not taken lightly either, as he clearly deeply cares about them despite the institutional complications and personal differences.
CONCLUSION:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
TLDR:
Adventures in Levena continues to be a heartwarming and fascinating romp through a unique magical world as it undergoes transformations, as well as a source of meaningful and compelling romance.
Loch and Q are beautifully realized characters in a beautifully realized world that I do not want to look away from. Some character moments were a little confusing to me, but the plot was gorgeously pieced together. The way that mental health is addressed in the world is deeply compelling and satisfying to read.
The relational nature of the characters continues to be my favorite part of the Levena books. There is nuance, there is complexity, and ultimately, there is profound and transformative care for each other and the world around them. In a genre permeated with "romantic love is the most important thing" messaging, Isaacs' work is gorgeously interdependent and communal.
I would say the dark academia tag is more aesthetic than thematic. Q is a teacher and professor, and occasionally we see his Thatch project, but the book sets aside the more traditional dark academia themes to prioritize communal action, romance, and healing — all of which ended up being its greatest strengths.
That being said, the things that have stuck with me the most are the plot construction, the way that mental illness and recovery mix with the romance, and the deeply relational nature of Levena.
PLOT
The plot of the book is deftly crafted, and I am again impressed by Isaacs' ability to integrate the social struggles of the world with the interpersonal relationships and romantic development. The rising anti-witch movement, Loch's demon-world conflicts, and Q's abuser all dovetail BEAUTIFULLY. The stakes feel high and real, and so as the plot develops, it's impossible not to get caught up in the emotional journey of the primary characters. The conflicts left open by the end make me even more eager to read what's next in the series.
There were character moments that felt like they could have been stronger with a little more development. Spoilers for this next part:
In short, the big plot circuits were closed masterfully, but a few of the smaller ones short-circuited for me.
LOVE AND RECOVERY:
The book is dedicated, "For the people with gaps in their memories and holes in their hearts; our trauma doesn't own us, but one day we will own it. Together." And it truly lives up to that dedication.
The content warnings exist very much with purpose, as we get some intense content right off the bat. The things warned for are thematically salient within the story, and in no way felt gratuitous or thoughtless to me.
There's an inevitability to the romance that is caramel-warm and sweet. Q and Elochian orbit around each other from the beginning of the book, and are very obviously taken with each other. They are also reckoning with complex internal and external situations pushing to keep them apart.
The things that stand in the way of their romance felt real and thoughtful— namely Elochian's family responsibilities and the emotional toll they take; and Q's abuser's reappearance and consequential resurgence in trauma-related symptoms. I struggle to find of a way of saying how meaningful the characterization of Quentin is without revealing too much of myself, so suffice to say, his responses are viscerally familiar and inspire deep feelings of care from me. Seeing the two leads find creative ways to choose each other amidst these developments was beautiful and rewarding.
Also, as a demisexual person, I felt like Elochian's demisexuality was written in a way that felt recognizable, thoughtful, and substantive. The way he and Q navigated their differences read as incredibly loving amidst the miscommunications, which felt very real to me.
I would like to content warn for the term "psychotic" being used in a derogatory fashion by the narrator. Details in the following spoilered section for those concerned.
CHARACTERS AND RELATIONSHIPS:
Once again, the relational nuance that is characteristic of Isaacs' work continues to twine gently around my heart.
Lindsey was a delight to get to know better. Her love for and defense of Q off the bat was heartwarming beyond belief, and seemed indicative of the way relationships work in this world. She saw an old acquaintance clearly and immediately took action. Obviously, this could have backfired spectacularly, but it didn't. I'm kind of obsessed with her honestly. I really liked her and Kitt and Dusan and would love to see more of the women in Levena. Also, Michael is a gem and a star, and I'd love to see more of them as well.
The strength of even minor characters is possibly my absolute favorite part of Isaacs' work. People are important to each other in a way that feels true to life, and that I don't see in romance very often. The found family structure of the misfits feels familiarly akin to my real-life queer found family. Q and Arlo's friendship is nothing short of deeply loving. Some of my favorite moments of the novel contained the two of them just talking and existing together. Similarly, Loch's acceptance that Tobias is his universe-mandated "Other Half", and that they get to choose what that means for their personal lives was a breath of fresh air. Elochian's responsibility to his family and his people are not taken lightly either, as he clearly deeply cares about them despite the institutional complications and personal differences.
CONCLUSION:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
TLDR:
Adventures in Levena continues to be a heartwarming and fascinating romp through a unique magical world as it undergoes transformations, as well as a source of meaningful and compelling romance.
Loch and Q are beautifully realized characters in a beautifully realized world that I do not want to look away from. Some character moments were a little confusing to me, but the plot was gorgeously pieced together. The way that mental health is addressed in the world is deeply compelling and satisfying to read.
The relational nature of the characters continues to be my favorite part of the Levena books. There is nuance, there is complexity, and ultimately, there is profound and transformative care for each other and the world around them. In a genre permeated with "romantic love is the most important thing" messaging, Isaacs' work is gorgeously interdependent and communal.
July 18, 2024
What a joy it was to be back in Levena!
Returning felt like a homecoming, like reuniting with friends.
The majority of this book was adorable. The MMCs had me kicking my feet and grinning like a fool!
However in true Isaac’s style, this also came with a side of heartbreak and angst which had me sobbing.
This story felt very vulnerable and wholesome, and I got the impression that the author put a lot of themselves into this.
I loved meeting some new characters- even though I am now scared of what comes next for them!
Overall this was a beautifully written, inclusive story about love in all its shapes and forms, incredible friendships, found family and healing.
I absolutely loved it!
Returning felt like a homecoming, like reuniting with friends.
The majority of this book was adorable. The MMCs had me kicking my feet and grinning like a fool!
However in true Isaac’s style, this also came with a side of heartbreak and angst which had me sobbing.
This story felt very vulnerable and wholesome, and I got the impression that the author put a lot of themselves into this.
I loved meeting some new characters- even though I am now scared of what comes next for them!
Overall this was a beautifully written, inclusive story about love in all its shapes and forms, incredible friendships, found family and healing.
I absolutely loved it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2024
ONE OF THE BEST COSY FANTASIES OUT THERE! You have found family, a cute af relationship ship that develops so well, there's some high stakes dabbled in there, and so many laugh out loud moments. Cannot wait for the next instalment of this series! Officially one of my favourite authors and an auto buy one too!
January 12, 2024
4.25/5
This was the perfect follow-up to Phantom & Rook! If you’re a fan of the found family trope and haven’t started this series yet…what are you doing?! This series also features a queernormative world, humans and magical beings in coexistence, mental health representation, and an underlying mystery that continues through the series.
Quentin Matsdotter and Elochian Adrastus have my heart. Quentin is a human teacher who also writes spicy books (and has a secret past). Elochian is a demisexual archdemon who never seems to catch a break.Their friends-to-lovers romance is the absolute sweetest. Although they are both shy about being honest about their feelings for each other, their communication was very healthy and there were no moments that irritated me like most romances.
The romance is obviously a prominent part of the book, but it’s not the sole focus! There is a large cast of characters that must work together to sort through a lot of ~magical~ politics. I’m so glad Arlo was still a relatively main character (from book one) and I loved his interactions with Elochian. Quentin’s past was also a main focus, which involves a previous domestic abuse situation he was in that is mentioned in the first chapter (the author provides a full list of all content warnings at the beginning of the book).
Overall, I highly recommend this series! Each installment focuses on a different main characters, but it’s still very important to read sequential in order. I can’t wait for book three!
This was the perfect follow-up to Phantom & Rook! If you’re a fan of the found family trope and haven’t started this series yet…what are you doing?! This series also features a queernormative world, humans and magical beings in coexistence, mental health representation, and an underlying mystery that continues through the series.
Quentin Matsdotter and Elochian Adrastus have my heart. Quentin is a human teacher who also writes spicy books (and has a secret past). Elochian is a demisexual archdemon who never seems to catch a break.Their friends-to-lovers romance is the absolute sweetest. Although they are both shy about being honest about their feelings for each other, their communication was very healthy and there were no moments that irritated me like most romances.
The romance is obviously a prominent part of the book, but it’s not the sole focus! There is a large cast of characters that must work together to sort through a lot of ~magical~ politics. I’m so glad Arlo was still a relatively main character (from book one) and I loved his interactions with Elochian. Quentin’s past was also a main focus, which involves a previous domestic abuse situation he was in that is mentioned in the first chapter (the author provides a full list of all content warnings at the beginning of the book).
Overall, I highly recommend this series! Each installment focuses on a different main characters, but it’s still very important to read sequential in order. I can’t wait for book three!
January 4, 2024
I absolutely love these characters and enjoyed seeing their story unfold. I also loved getting to see some of my favorite characters from the previous book make an appearance. That said there were A LOT of characters and I had trouble keeping some of them straight or remembering who they were, especially many of the characters introduced in the previous book. Some reintroductions or a character list would have been helpful.
There was a lot going on in this and there were multiple storylines and plots going all the way through. In the end, they folded together pretty well, but there were some points through the middle where the complicated world building and lore and storylines kind of got muddled. It also required you to remember a lot of what happened in the previous book while adding even more. It was a lot to wade through and sort.
The romance aspects of the book were perfect. I absolutely adored both the MCs. They were so meant to be and watching them realize and accept that was nothing short of beautiful. There were some lines that had me swooning and smiling like crazy.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see where the author takes us next.
There was a lot going on in this and there were multiple storylines and plots going all the way through. In the end, they folded together pretty well, but there were some points through the middle where the complicated world building and lore and storylines kind of got muddled. It also required you to remember a lot of what happened in the previous book while adding even more. It was a lot to wade through and sort.
The romance aspects of the book were perfect. I absolutely adored both the MCs. They were so meant to be and watching them realize and accept that was nothing short of beautiful. There were some lines that had me swooning and smiling like crazy.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see where the author takes us next.
August 7, 2024
4.5⭐️
There may be nothing more soothing to the soul than returning to Levena! Set after Phantom and Rook, this book follows Quentin (human) and Elochian (archdemon). These two are so lovable, and while the burn is slow, it is constant, and I could feel their love through the page from start to finish.
The external plot that threads through the series develops, and the stakes continue to climb. While this was primarily slow-paced cozy fantasy with plenty of slice-of-life and found family, it has its moments of crisis and turmoil so don’t get too comfortable! I think what makes Noah’s books so cozy in the first place is knowing these characters will be supported and cared for by their tight knit group of friends, as well as their larger community.
Overall, this was thoroughly delightful, and these two beloved characters won’t be leaving my heart any time soon. I simply cannot wait for the rest of the series to unfold!
There may be nothing more soothing to the soul than returning to Levena! Set after Phantom and Rook, this book follows Quentin (human) and Elochian (archdemon). These two are so lovable, and while the burn is slow, it is constant, and I could feel their love through the page from start to finish.
The external plot that threads through the series develops, and the stakes continue to climb. While this was primarily slow-paced cozy fantasy with plenty of slice-of-life and found family, it has its moments of crisis and turmoil so don’t get too comfortable! I think what makes Noah’s books so cozy in the first place is knowing these characters will be supported and cared for by their tight knit group of friends, as well as their larger community.
Overall, this was thoroughly delightful, and these two beloved characters won’t be leaving my heart any time soon. I simply cannot wait for the rest of the series to unfold!
December 16, 2023
Thanks so much to the author for the ARC!
This is the second book of Adventures in Levena and I adored it just as much as the first one.
The romance is the cutest.
The representation is amazing in every way.
The setting and the vibes are impeccable.
And most importantly the characters.
Every single one of them is just so lovable. And there are a lot but they're all super fleshed out. Especially Michael, can I have more of him please? I love him. But also more of everyone? I need more.
This is the second book of Adventures in Levena and I adored it just as much as the first one.
The romance is the cutest.
The representation is amazing in every way.
The setting and the vibes are impeccable.
And most importantly the characters.
Every single one of them is just so lovable. And there are a lot but they're all super fleshed out. Especially Michael, can I have more of him please? I love him. But also more of everyone? I need more.
May 25, 2025
4.5 stars
This book is after book one but before the novella. The story of Q and Loch is of healing, patience, fighting for those you love, and found family. Arlo’s family grows in this story (and you get to ‘watch’ it happen). Q and Loch are so careful and cautious with each other, they learn each other first (result of trauma from both parties), it’s refreshing. You get to find out who Q really is, which I was super excited for! And they get an HEA (and all kinds of other stuff, but no spoilers here). Honestly, I love this story line, each book may take a minute to get going, but the character relationships are amazing!
This book is after book one but before the novella. The story of Q and Loch is of healing, patience, fighting for those you love, and found family. Arlo’s family grows in this story (and you get to ‘watch’ it happen). Q and Loch are so careful and cautious with each other, they learn each other first (result of trauma from both parties), it’s refreshing. You get to find out who Q really is, which I was super excited for! And they get an HEA (and all kinds of other stuff, but no spoilers here). Honestly, I love this story line, each book may take a minute to get going, but the character relationships are amazing!
June 6, 2024
I love everything about this series. It's got colourful, cozy vibes but also a good amount of action. The friendships and relationships are realistic and engaging. There's also excellent mental health representation.
My heart goes out to Elochian, for his anxiety, and Quentin, for his traumatic past. Their backstories were handled really well and they're a perfect match for each other. I also enjoyed Michael, Elochian's protector; their demeanor and shapeshifting abilities were entertaining.
My heart goes out to Elochian, for his anxiety, and Quentin, for his traumatic past. Their backstories were handled really well and they're a perfect match for each other. I also enjoyed Michael, Elochian's protector; their demeanor and shapeshifting abilities were entertaining.
March 14, 2025
3,5⭐️
September 7, 2025
Just another wonderful story in the series.
For the rest of my review, visit my Vlog at:
https://youtube.com/shorts/C746XWKLZp...
Enjoy!
For the rest of my review, visit my Vlog at:
https://youtube.com/shorts/C746XWKLZp...
Enjoy!
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