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Fog & Fireflies
With refreshing echoes of golden age fantasy, Fog & Fireflies is a novel that brings together an imaginative world and fantastical cast of characters to explore the difference between growing older and growing up.
Why do we grow more scared as we get older?
Hundreds of seasons ago, a wizard's war scarred the earth, leaving a malevolent fog blanketing the land, and carrying the settlements within it like ships adrift at sea. The phantoms the fog creates are deadly to adults, so children must guard the walls now, and care for each other.
Ogma watches the fog from the walls of her windmill town. What felt like a game as a child becomes more of a creeping dread with each season she gets older.
Because we know better.
Ogma's town is attacked—alien caravanners who roam the fog in inhuman forms have come to kidnap the children, and Ogma is lost in the fog. She must find hope, find courage in herself, and find her friends.
A novel for readers who enjoy rich worldbuilding in the style of Hayao Miyazaki, a unique cast of creatures and characters that harkens back to L. Frank Baum and Arthur Rackham, and the bonds of found family akin to the work of Maggie Stiefvater and Makoto Shinkai
Why do we grow more scared as we get older?
Hundreds of seasons ago, a wizard's war scarred the earth, leaving a malevolent fog blanketing the land, and carrying the settlements within it like ships adrift at sea. The phantoms the fog creates are deadly to adults, so children must guard the walls now, and care for each other.
Ogma watches the fog from the walls of her windmill town. What felt like a game as a child becomes more of a creeping dread with each season she gets older.
Because we know better.
Ogma's town is attacked—alien caravanners who roam the fog in inhuman forms have come to kidnap the children, and Ogma is lost in the fog. She must find hope, find courage in herself, and find her friends.
A novel for readers who enjoy rich worldbuilding in the style of Hayao Miyazaki, a unique cast of creatures and characters that harkens back to L. Frank Baum and Arthur Rackham, and the bonds of found family akin to the work of Maggie Stiefvater and Makoto Shinkai
404 pages, Paperback
First published April 11, 2024
40 people are currently reading
1056 people want to read
About the author
T.H. Lehnen
2 books60 followersT.H. Lehnen is an author who believes that young adult and children’s literature is simply more honest about the magic in the world. Under Aspen & Thorn Press, he writes young adult fantasy for children who are old souls, and old souls who are children at heart.
He lives with his family in Portland, OR, and studied creative writing, philosophy, and English literature at Reed College. When he is not writing, he is tinkering with machines mechanical and digital (though he has yet to figure out how to fit a sports car through a wardrobe).
He lives with his family in Portland, OR, and studied creative writing, philosophy, and English literature at Reed College. When he is not writing, he is tinkering with machines mechanical and digital (though he has yet to figure out how to fit a sports car through a wardrobe).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews
March 6, 2025
This actually felt a little more middle grade than YA to me. Too young for me. I do think the target audience will enjoy it though.
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Okay, about a year ago I posted that I was obsessed with this cover- I had way too many arcs at the time to take it on, BUT last night I was scrolling NetGalley and this is now available as a no approval required audio.
Might have a little time for that.... here we go! No idea what this is about other than it's fantasy with a nice cover.
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Okay, about a year ago I posted that I was obsessed with this cover- I had way too many arcs at the time to take it on, BUT last night I was scrolling NetGalley and this is now available as a no approval required audio.
Might have a little time for that.... here we go! No idea what this is about other than it's fantasy with a nice cover.
March 18, 2024
"Why do we grow more scared as we get older?"
"Because we know better."
Every now and then you come across a new release that feels like you’re reading a modern classic. Whether it be the themes, the writing itself, or how reminiscent it feels of another classic; there’s a certain charisma to these stories that makes them feel special. This week I’ve had the pleasure to read not one, but two of these stories. One of them, Impossible Creatures, has already garnered plenty of well-deserves praise and love. The other is an upcoming indie title, that I’m therefore even more excited to put on people’s radar.
With vibes of The Neverending Story, a world reminiscent of Miyazaki, and a story that feels like a folktale told at night around a campfire: this is a release to keep your eye on.
The Story:
In a world blanketed in a never ceasing fog inhabited by nightmarish creatures, humans are confined to isolated settlements that sail the fog like ships. Ogma lives in one of these settlements, and is part of the team of children guarding the walls and sounding the alarm whenever one of the fog-phantoms approaches. Her job is an important one, and one only children can do, as the older you grow, the more susceptible you become to the fogs treacherous calls.
One day, Ogma’s town is attacked by shadows from the fog. In an attempt to save those she loves, Ogma sets off on a journey into the unseen, where she must rely on her wits and her friends in order to survive.
What I loved:
The immediate standout here is the quality and depth of the worldbuilding Lehnen put into this story. From the setting of the fog-drowned world with its floating settlements, to the fearful creatures that inhabit it, to the history and lore of the wizard-war that created this situation: it feels like Lehnen knows this world inside out, and is excited to take you on a journey through it.
The plot offers a good balance between action and character interaction, and Ogma and her traveling band make for great companions on this trip. I especially love how Ogma was a strong female character, that isn’t afraid to recognise that she still needs help and support from her friends (something that unfortunately is quite rare in Young Adult fiction).
Another element that made the story feel similar to modern classics like The Neverending Story is how well it translates to different age-ranges of reader. I would classify the story somewhere between the upper-end of middle-grade and the younger side of YA (12 to 15 years), but it’s core-themes of friendship, fear, growing up, growing older and growing apart translate perfectly to adult readers as well.
What I didn’t love:
Fog and Fireflies is a debut novel, and has some struggles typical of that. Most notably, it struggles a little around the half-way point. After a fascinating beginning, there’s a bit of a drop in pacing, as well as a very quick expansion on the world and magic-system that doesn’t quite feel like it gives the reader enough time or information to adjust. Although the author seems to know the lore of his world inside out, he struggles at times to keep the reader up to pace. I hope the next book in this series will expand further on this worldbuilding and fill in the gaps that were left in my understanding.
That brings me to my second point of critique: I wish the Goodreads page and marketing had been a little more clear about the fact that this is the start of a series, not a standalone fantasy. To me, this wasn’t a problem, but know before going in that this is a satisfying story in its own right, but it does have some open ends after you flip the final page.
As a final aside, I’m happy to let you know that I had a great mailexchange with the author, in which he stressed how much he values accessibility, and an audiobook is in the making so visually impaired readers can enjoy the story too. If you know me, you know how deeply I appreciate an author (especially indie!) thinking of such things.
Many thanks to T.J. Lehnen and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
"Because we know better."
Every now and then you come across a new release that feels like you’re reading a modern classic. Whether it be the themes, the writing itself, or how reminiscent it feels of another classic; there’s a certain charisma to these stories that makes them feel special. This week I’ve had the pleasure to read not one, but two of these stories. One of them, Impossible Creatures, has already garnered plenty of well-deserves praise and love. The other is an upcoming indie title, that I’m therefore even more excited to put on people’s radar.
With vibes of The Neverending Story, a world reminiscent of Miyazaki, and a story that feels like a folktale told at night around a campfire: this is a release to keep your eye on.
The Story:
In a world blanketed in a never ceasing fog inhabited by nightmarish creatures, humans are confined to isolated settlements that sail the fog like ships. Ogma lives in one of these settlements, and is part of the team of children guarding the walls and sounding the alarm whenever one of the fog-phantoms approaches. Her job is an important one, and one only children can do, as the older you grow, the more susceptible you become to the fogs treacherous calls.
One day, Ogma’s town is attacked by shadows from the fog. In an attempt to save those she loves, Ogma sets off on a journey into the unseen, where she must rely on her wits and her friends in order to survive.
What I loved:
The immediate standout here is the quality and depth of the worldbuilding Lehnen put into this story. From the setting of the fog-drowned world with its floating settlements, to the fearful creatures that inhabit it, to the history and lore of the wizard-war that created this situation: it feels like Lehnen knows this world inside out, and is excited to take you on a journey through it.
The plot offers a good balance between action and character interaction, and Ogma and her traveling band make for great companions on this trip. I especially love how Ogma was a strong female character, that isn’t afraid to recognise that she still needs help and support from her friends (something that unfortunately is quite rare in Young Adult fiction).
Another element that made the story feel similar to modern classics like The Neverending Story is how well it translates to different age-ranges of reader. I would classify the story somewhere between the upper-end of middle-grade and the younger side of YA (12 to 15 years), but it’s core-themes of friendship, fear, growing up, growing older and growing apart translate perfectly to adult readers as well.
What I didn’t love:
Fog and Fireflies is a debut novel, and has some struggles typical of that. Most notably, it struggles a little around the half-way point. After a fascinating beginning, there’s a bit of a drop in pacing, as well as a very quick expansion on the world and magic-system that doesn’t quite feel like it gives the reader enough time or information to adjust. Although the author seems to know the lore of his world inside out, he struggles at times to keep the reader up to pace. I hope the next book in this series will expand further on this worldbuilding and fill in the gaps that were left in my understanding.
That brings me to my second point of critique: I wish the Goodreads page and marketing had been a little more clear about the fact that this is the start of a series, not a standalone fantasy. To me, this wasn’t a problem, but know before going in that this is a satisfying story in its own right, but it does have some open ends after you flip the final page.
As a final aside, I’m happy to let you know that I had a great mailexchange with the author, in which he stressed how much he values accessibility, and an audiobook is in the making so visually impaired readers can enjoy the story too. If you know me, you know how deeply I appreciate an author (especially indie!) thinking of such things.
Many thanks to T.J. Lehnen and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 12, 2024
The day has finally arrived, my friends...PUBLICATION DAY!! This book caught my eye on NetGalley because that cover is *everything*, and I resolved to keep an eye on it. I kept coming back to its page on NetGalley, and more and more people kept liking the cover (it's past 300 likes as of today, April 11, 2024), so I decided I absolutely had to make room on my TBR list for it.
Why the heck did I wait so long?? This tale is fantastic! It ticks allll the boxes for me: A magical, mysterious world. Well-developed characters who embark on a perilous journey. Friendships. Foes. Danger. Beauty amidst sorrow. Errors in judgment. Chances for redemption.
You will cry. You will grieve. You will rail against the unfairness of it all. You will hope against hope that our heroes can prevail against the overarching darkness.
You will be enthralled.
I don't like to say too much about plots, usually, because I don't want to spoil anything, and this review is no exception. I recommend just going in blind. Fog & Fireflies is very much worth the hype, and I expect it to do extremely well. Author T.H. Lehnen's worldbuilding is so, so good. I really hope there will be another book set in this world!
5 well-deserved stars!!
I received both a physical and electronic ARC via Aspen & Thorn Press and NetGalley (thanks so much!). As always, the receipt of ARCs never influences my reviews in any way, and I am writing this voluntarily. Special thanks to Bryan at Aspen & Thorn Press for getting the physical copy out to me so quickly!
Why the heck did I wait so long?? This tale is fantastic! It ticks allll the boxes for me: A magical, mysterious world. Well-developed characters who embark on a perilous journey. Friendships. Foes. Danger. Beauty amidst sorrow. Errors in judgment. Chances for redemption.
You will cry. You will grieve. You will rail against the unfairness of it all. You will hope against hope that our heroes can prevail against the overarching darkness.
You will be enthralled.
I don't like to say too much about plots, usually, because I don't want to spoil anything, and this review is no exception. I recommend just going in blind. Fog & Fireflies is very much worth the hype, and I expect it to do extremely well. Author T.H. Lehnen's worldbuilding is so, so good. I really hope there will be another book set in this world!
5 well-deserved stars!!
I received both a physical and electronic ARC via Aspen & Thorn Press and NetGalley (thanks so much!). As always, the receipt of ARCs never influences my reviews in any way, and I am writing this voluntarily. Special thanks to Bryan at Aspen & Thorn Press for getting the physical copy out to me so quickly!
January 18, 2025
The power of this wonderful story is in the amazing world that the author creates, one in which the land has been altered by a wizards' war hundreds of year ago. Beasts twisted by magic roam the fog, snatching people from walled villages that are patrolled by children, who are seemingly immune to the fog's effects. The villages and the people inside are transported around the landscape when the fog rolls in, so that oftentimes people, and other creatures, can become lost in the fog.
Author Lehnen creates a wonderful cast of characters, both human and nonhuman, with endearing qualities. The charismatic Caravanners that travel the fog in their colorful wagons like gypsies, trading goods from village to village. The mysterious puppeteers with their blank faces and shadowy bodies. The Old Powers from long ago who are both diminished and ever powerful at the same time. And the wonderful girlchild at the center of it all, Ogma, whose relentless quest to return to her village and rescue its kidnapped children, brings all of these characters together.
This book is the beginning of a series, one that I will willingly follow when the author publishes more. Kudos for an excellent job!
Finally, my thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for this arc. My thoughts are my own, as always.
Author Lehnen creates a wonderful cast of characters, both human and nonhuman, with endearing qualities. The charismatic Caravanners that travel the fog in their colorful wagons like gypsies, trading goods from village to village. The mysterious puppeteers with their blank faces and shadowy bodies. The Old Powers from long ago who are both diminished and ever powerful at the same time. And the wonderful girlchild at the center of it all, Ogma, whose relentless quest to return to her village and rescue its kidnapped children, brings all of these characters together.
This book is the beginning of a series, one that I will willingly follow when the author publishes more. Kudos for an excellent job!
Finally, my thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for this arc. My thoughts are my own, as always.
March 1, 2024
I wanted to read this book because the name and cover attracted my attention. This was such a cute story. It was pure magic. I enjoyed it cover to cover. It made me think of The Labrinth, The Neverending Story, and even a bit of The Princess Bride. This ya fantasy is all about innocence, magic, adventure, and being brave. I will definitely add this paperback to my collection once it's available.
March 15, 2024
4.5 rating (arc review)
As soon as I read the description for this book, I knew I had to read it and I was not disappointed.
Fog & Fireflies has everything you would want a great fantasy book to have. It’s has captivating characters, great world building, magic, adventure, lots of intense moments and several twist that I didn’t expect.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I can’t wait to see what else T. H. Lehnen does next.
As soon as I read the description for this book, I knew I had to read it and I was not disappointed.
Fog & Fireflies has everything you would want a great fantasy book to have. It’s has captivating characters, great world building, magic, adventure, lots of intense moments and several twist that I didn’t expect.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I can’t wait to see what else T. H. Lehnen does next.
April 12, 2024
Reading Fog & Fireflies was like watching a movie! The way that T.H. Lehnen writes makes it so easy to visualize the story, making this book such a pleasure to read.
The story centers around a young girl named Ogma, who along with the other children of the town, are tasked with keeping everyone safe from a mysterious fog that is capable of kidnapping their people. For me, this was one of the more fascinating aspects of the book, that the youth were the ones empowered to keep their town safe. They are the fearless ones, as we all seem to become more scared as we get older.
I was invested in the world Lehnen built from the very first page, waiting impatiently to receive more and more answers about the hows and whys, while being given even more questions along the way. Meeting an interesting array of fantastical creatures and people, who have to navigate through some interesting and treacherous situations, kept me on the edge of my seat for the entire read.
My only criticism would be the length of some of the chapters which I’m hopeful will be addressed before final copies, as I read an advanced one.
Highly recommend this for anyone interested in beautiful prose and amazing world building, a wonderful fantasy read for ages 9+. Can’t wait for the sequels and to watch this on the big screen one day!!
Thanks to T.H. Lehnen, Aspen & Thorn Press and NetGalley for the ARC, opinions expressed are my own.
The story centers around a young girl named Ogma, who along with the other children of the town, are tasked with keeping everyone safe from a mysterious fog that is capable of kidnapping their people. For me, this was one of the more fascinating aspects of the book, that the youth were the ones empowered to keep their town safe. They are the fearless ones, as we all seem to become more scared as we get older.
I was invested in the world Lehnen built from the very first page, waiting impatiently to receive more and more answers about the hows and whys, while being given even more questions along the way. Meeting an interesting array of fantastical creatures and people, who have to navigate through some interesting and treacherous situations, kept me on the edge of my seat for the entire read.
My only criticism would be the length of some of the chapters which I’m hopeful will be addressed before final copies, as I read an advanced one.
Highly recommend this for anyone interested in beautiful prose and amazing world building, a wonderful fantasy read for ages 9+. Can’t wait for the sequels and to watch this on the big screen one day!!
Thanks to T.H. Lehnen, Aspen & Thorn Press and NetGalley for the ARC, opinions expressed are my own.
February 1, 2024
Ogma is a child - and like all children in her village, she stands watch against the fog, to keep the fog, and the phantoms it contains, from overtaking her village. Only children can do this job; once they get too old, they are no longer effective at keeping the fog away. Adults in their village live in the center, away from the walls that the children patrol. Villages like the one Ogma lives in shift with the fog; when the fog lifts, sometimes they find themselves near another village. When that happens, there is trade, of both things and people, as young adults trade villages to find mates. Sometimes, instead of a village appearing, Caravaners appear, with items to trade from the villages they've visited as they sail the fog, the only people in the world who can safely be out when the fog falls. But some villages have too few children to watch their walls, and in their desperation, they search for any children they can find, even if it means stealing them from their homes. Ogma is lost in the fog during such a raid, and is saved by the Caravaners who had recently visited her village. Together, they try to find Ogma's village, but instead, they find a mystery to be solved - the mystery of the stolen children.
This is an intriguing and engrossing novel, with characters - particularly Ogma - who readers will want to root for. Not all the people are human, and just they are is open to interpretation; the Caravaners themselves admit that no two of them are alike, and the puppeteers who travel with them are different still. Recommended for readers middle school to adult.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is an intriguing and engrossing novel, with characters - particularly Ogma - who readers will want to root for. Not all the people are human, and just they are is open to interpretation; the Caravaners themselves admit that no two of them are alike, and the puppeteers who travel with them are different still. Recommended for readers middle school to adult.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 11, 2024
Why do we grow more scared as we get older?
Fog & Fireflies is a beautifully written dark fantasy YA novel about innocence, bravery, and the magic of found family that harkens towards the imaginative and wonderful world-building and storytelling of Hayao Miyazaki. T.H Lehnen’s prose weaves together an incredibly vivid world full of magic and delight that leaves readers wishing for more.
The only thing that really prevented this from being a 5-star read for me was the rapid pace in which we are thrown into the story and world, with little explanation or details before the events of the story unfolds which made it a bit hard for me to get into and engage with the book at first, and the somewhat lengthy chapter lengths took some getting used to. It wasn’t until about a third of the way through that I got more of a sense of the characters and their setting. Additionally, I loved Ogma as a strong female lead character as well as the other fantastical cast of characters we meet along the way.
Overall, I loved this book and am excited to see more from the author!
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for providing this eArc in exchange for a honest review. All opinions in this review are my own.
Fog & Fireflies is a beautifully written dark fantasy YA novel about innocence, bravery, and the magic of found family that harkens towards the imaginative and wonderful world-building and storytelling of Hayao Miyazaki. T.H Lehnen’s prose weaves together an incredibly vivid world full of magic and delight that leaves readers wishing for more.
The only thing that really prevented this from being a 5-star read for me was the rapid pace in which we are thrown into the story and world, with little explanation or details before the events of the story unfolds which made it a bit hard for me to get into and engage with the book at first, and the somewhat lengthy chapter lengths took some getting used to. It wasn’t until about a third of the way through that I got more of a sense of the characters and their setting. Additionally, I loved Ogma as a strong female lead character as well as the other fantastical cast of characters we meet along the way.
Overall, I loved this book and am excited to see more from the author!
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for providing this eArc in exchange for a honest review. All opinions in this review are my own.
January 21, 2024
This story was magic. Pure magic. The melodic and artful way it was written made the story come alive off the page. The characters were vibrant, the descriptions were vivid, and it made my imagination come alive. I wish this was an animated series or a game, I’d love nothing more than to be able to see it all play out in front of me. Everything came together at the end and wrapped up in such a way that there’s plenty of room for the author to continue for many books to come. The only faults I can find are the chapter lengths and the odd melding of real language/names with the fantasy. The chapters were entirely too long and it made the book itself feel too long. The Norwegian language spoken by one of the characters clashes with the Irish namesake of the main character. It felt like the author was pulling from too many real sources but pretending it was not to make it part of the story so I struggled with that. But overall this is an absolutely beautiful tale and I’m thrilled Netgalley gave me the chance to read it.
February 22, 2024
I am almost at a loss on how to describe how wonderful this book was. Reading it made me feel like I fell through a wardrobe and was exploring something new and completely undiscovered. The characters and the world building are so fantastical I wanted to pack a bag and walk into the fog just to join them. Every time I started to feel like I had a grip on what was happening the story would change and fold into so many different parts. This book tells a tale of a world so rich in wonders that I devoured every page.
This book has a grip on my soul and I really hope there is more to come.
This book has a grip on my soul and I really hope there is more to come.
March 19, 2024
My kids are getting a copy of Fog & Fireflies by T.H. Lehnen! It’s an intelligently written and thrilling book for young adults. Rich, information-packed language pulls you into a nightmarish, twisted landscape of phantom tendrils and dark magic. The fantastic life forms, corrupted wizards, and enchanted worlds compare well to what I love by Philip Pullman and Ursula K. Le Guin. Although the first half is stronger than the second, and I hunger for some light, I’m pinned for a sequel.
January 26, 2024
I did enjoy this book and the idea from it, the dark fantasy theme really grabbed me into choosing this. However it was a little difficult for me to get into as you really do jumped into the book without many details and many jumps between characters. The book does a very good job with it description of the story along the entire book. In the end everything wraps and it all makes sense. The story is really good and keeps you wanting to know more
February 28, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a free e-audio arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I did enjoy the book as it is a dark young adult fantasy that deals with a terrible fog that brings monsters to the world that only attack adults, leaving children to defend the town. The monsters that are described throughout the book are definitely terrifying for a young mind, and the atmosphere is well set throughout the book.
Some things I did not like about the book that could be improved upon include the plot explanation and scene pacing. The book really takes off without much explanation until well into the book of what is fully going on, and while that is fine sometimes it kind of made the book drag a little for me especially towards the middle of the book. Also, with the jumping of scenes, it threw me off a little, but ultimately, they came together well at the end.
I'm definitely interested to see what more the author has in store!
I did enjoy the book as it is a dark young adult fantasy that deals with a terrible fog that brings monsters to the world that only attack adults, leaving children to defend the town. The monsters that are described throughout the book are definitely terrifying for a young mind, and the atmosphere is well set throughout the book.
Some things I did not like about the book that could be improved upon include the plot explanation and scene pacing. The book really takes off without much explanation until well into the book of what is fully going on, and while that is fine sometimes it kind of made the book drag a little for me especially towards the middle of the book. Also, with the jumping of scenes, it threw me off a little, but ultimately, they came together well at the end.
I'm definitely interested to see what more the author has in store!
March 28, 2024
A coming of age fantasy adventure that has all the classic fantasy elements I love. The world is adrift in floating settlements amongst a magical fog and the children have to be on guard. As the children tell eachother stories you are transported into the folktales and parts of the world open up to you as a reader.
The journey within the fog is at times like a fever dream and then there are moments of pure tension and truly scary creatures.
This really is a magical story of friendship, fear and growth. The cover alone is brilliant and really made me want to experience this world. Definitely one to recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.
The journey within the fog is at times like a fever dream and then there are moments of pure tension and truly scary creatures.
This really is a magical story of friendship, fear and growth. The cover alone is brilliant and really made me want to experience this world. Definitely one to recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.
April 8, 2025
3.75 ⭐️s rounded up for Goodreads.
I read an e-ARC in tandem with an advanced audiobook.
Firstly, 5 stars for that amazing cover! It's what drew me to this arc.
Secondly, Fog & Fireflies felt very unique. I really enjoyed the overall plot, the fog and monsters, the lore, the crucial roll of children, and the fear that comes with growing up. I was sucked in quickly. For me, it read lower YA/upper Middle Grade.
The pacing was a bit off for me. It slowed about 2/3 of the way through, then picked up again for the final act.
The audiobook is narrated by the author T.H. Lehnen, which I highly recommend. Lehnen has a melancholy yet calming voice; perfect for the foggy and dreary setting and circumstances throughout Fog & Fireflies.
Thanks to NetGalley and Aspen and Thorn Press for an eARC and the audiobook!
I read an e-ARC in tandem with an advanced audiobook.
Firstly, 5 stars for that amazing cover! It's what drew me to this arc.
Secondly, Fog & Fireflies felt very unique. I really enjoyed the overall plot, the fog and monsters, the lore, the crucial roll of children, and the fear that comes with growing up. I was sucked in quickly. For me, it read lower YA/upper Middle Grade.
The pacing was a bit off for me. It slowed about 2/3 of the way through, then picked up again for the final act.
The audiobook is narrated by the author T.H. Lehnen, which I highly recommend. Lehnen has a melancholy yet calming voice; perfect for the foggy and dreary setting and circumstances throughout Fog & Fireflies.
Thanks to NetGalley and Aspen and Thorn Press for an eARC and the audiobook!
January 20, 2024
Its cover immediately attracted my attention. Dark atmosphere with Pan's Labrynth vibes.
Children (almost without adults) live in a town and vigilantly keep guard against a strange fog by strategically estabilished windmills. Anyone who stupid enough to go out is taken by vast, devouring creatures called fog phantoms. Eerie voices and cloudy shapes try to lure the youngs away from their posts, so they use bells to keep their attention focussed. Bells and lanterns filled with fireflies also help them to find each other in the dark. The fog fades away from children but snatches the grown-ups. And, at some point, everyone grows up...
The main character is Ogma, a brave and responsible girl, who started a rescue after a scream, and found a severely wounded boy speaking in Norwegian (I enjoyed decyphering his sentences). Then, soon after he healed up, something came from the fog, and Ogma gets lost in the wilderness...
T. H. Lehnen's prose is glamourous, part like a heartfelt folktale featuring adorable children, enchanting adventures, and mysterious dreams - and part dark fantasy with frightening monsters, mercyless attacks, bloody wounds and killings. He has a good sense for making the scenes vivid and impactful, portraying the dynamics easy to understand, yet fluid enough not to seem simplistic. During the suspense I often heard the intensifying epic music in my head. I like stories in which experiences of hearing, smelling, touching are just as important as seeing; it greatly enhances immersion. Representation of thoughts and feelings organically blends into the text, allowing the story to flow smoothly without abrupt perspective shifts.
I loved how the story unfolded from a fantasy children camp to an exciting adventure with darker tone, impressive creatures, life-or-death-level pledges, and perhaps more in later books.
It is not so long, and the description is right: there is a noticable similarity with the art of Hayao Miyazaki.
Thanks to the author and Netgalley, I read an advanced reading copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Children (almost without adults) live in a town and vigilantly keep guard against a strange fog by strategically estabilished windmills. Anyone who stupid enough to go out is taken by vast, devouring creatures called fog phantoms. Eerie voices and cloudy shapes try to lure the youngs away from their posts, so they use bells to keep their attention focussed. Bells and lanterns filled with fireflies also help them to find each other in the dark. The fog fades away from children but snatches the grown-ups. And, at some point, everyone grows up...
The main character is Ogma, a brave and responsible girl, who started a rescue after a scream, and found a severely wounded boy speaking in Norwegian (I enjoyed decyphering his sentences). Then, soon after he healed up, something came from the fog, and Ogma gets lost in the wilderness...
T. H. Lehnen's prose is glamourous, part like a heartfelt folktale featuring adorable children, enchanting adventures, and mysterious dreams - and part dark fantasy with frightening monsters, mercyless attacks, bloody wounds and killings. He has a good sense for making the scenes vivid and impactful, portraying the dynamics easy to understand, yet fluid enough not to seem simplistic. During the suspense I often heard the intensifying epic music in my head. I like stories in which experiences of hearing, smelling, touching are just as important as seeing; it greatly enhances immersion. Representation of thoughts and feelings organically blends into the text, allowing the story to flow smoothly without abrupt perspective shifts.
I loved how the story unfolded from a fantasy children camp to an exciting adventure with darker tone, impressive creatures, life-or-death-level pledges, and perhaps more in later books.
It is not so long, and the description is right: there is a noticable similarity with the art of Hayao Miyazaki.
Thanks to the author and Netgalley, I read an advanced reading copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2024
Fog & Fireflies is more than it says on the tin: sure, there is fog and there are fireflies, but there are also towns that disappear into said fog, there are legends that may not be just legends and may be closer than they seem, a traveling wonderous colorful band of "caravaners" who trade in goods but keep the truths of the world, a mysterious boy appearing in blood and fog, and threading them all together the teenage Ogma who is just trying to get home.
When blurbs say things similar to Miyazaki/Studio Ghibli vibes, usually it's a bit of a stretch for 'cozy and heartwarming fantasy.' This is not that (mostly!) this actually draws out the more interesting (to me) parts of the Miyazaki/Ghibli vibes -- the horrors of the earth and how Wrong they feel in their landscapes.
There was a lot going on in this book but it does all tie together (even more than expected) and it's definitely part one of a series even if it's not clear on NetGalley and it's fun to see or make the realization/watch Ogma make the realization about these things knitting together to tell a wider story of the world and its histories.
There's still some questions I have (mostly why do there seem to be no parents and the children raise themselves, how exactly did spooky magic fog start, etc) and some minor nitpicking (I think it would have been better if Dunkirk's language would have not been written out as full dialogue every time when no one could understand him, I didn't know how the humans knew the genders of the caravaners unless there was something in the introductions/masks I forgot about so gendering shadow people was strange to my non-binary self, etc) but they are also things that surely could be answered in subsequent books in the series so I'm not really fussed.
And! There's illustrations!
Also let me say, in a world where AI ""art"" (not art) is encroaching into books it's so nice to have this GORGEOUS cover with a very clearly credited artist! Bless.
Thank you to Netgalley and Aspen & Thorn Press for the eARC in exchange for review!
When blurbs say things similar to Miyazaki/Studio Ghibli vibes, usually it's a bit of a stretch for 'cozy and heartwarming fantasy.' This is not that (mostly!) this actually draws out the more interesting (to me) parts of the Miyazaki/Ghibli vibes -- the horrors of the earth and how Wrong they feel in their landscapes.
There was a lot going on in this book but it does all tie together (even more than expected) and it's definitely part one of a series even if it's not clear on NetGalley and it's fun to see or make the realization/watch Ogma make the realization about these things knitting together to tell a wider story of the world and its histories.
There's still some questions I have (mostly why do there seem to be no parents and the children raise themselves, how exactly did spooky magic fog start, etc) and some minor nitpicking (I think it would have been better if Dunkirk's language would have not been written out as full dialogue every time when no one could understand him, I didn't know how the humans knew the genders of the caravaners unless there was something in the introductions/masks I forgot about so gendering shadow people was strange to my non-binary self, etc) but they are also things that surely could be answered in subsequent books in the series so I'm not really fussed.
And! There's illustrations!
Also let me say, in a world where AI ""art"" (not art) is encroaching into books it's so nice to have this GORGEOUS cover with a very clearly credited artist! Bless.
Thank you to Netgalley and Aspen & Thorn Press for the eARC in exchange for review!
December 19, 2024
Fog & Fireflies is... an experience.
What attracted me to the story first is the cover; it gives me the vibes of Pan's Labyrinth meets Death Note meets the spirit world in Avatar: The Last Airbender (all of which I thoroughly enjoyed). Reading the synopsis of the story, I was extremely curious, especially as it was described as being a novel for "readers who enjoy rich worldbuilding" which describes me to a T (worldbuilding is my forte).
Initially, I found myself a little disappointed in what I read. The story was slow to start and almost felt as if I was missing something. However, I did not have to read too far into the story for that opinion to change in a very drastic manner. Lehnen's prose is captivating and his characters are a delight to read. The darker theme of the story kept me hooked and I found I was soon at a place where I couldn't put it down.
The vivid descriptions make every part of the story feel real and alive as you read it, and Lehnen pays just the right amount of attention to each and every detail, ensuring the reader is drawn deep into the story, one page at a time. If you enjoy a blended fantasy experience; if you enjoy any of the references listed above; if you are a fan of Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli; if you fall into any of these categories, then I recommend this book for you.
4.5 Stars (rounded up), though it could have been an easy 5 stars had I been able to get hooked earlier in the story.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What attracted me to the story first is the cover; it gives me the vibes of Pan's Labyrinth meets Death Note meets the spirit world in Avatar: The Last Airbender (all of which I thoroughly enjoyed). Reading the synopsis of the story, I was extremely curious, especially as it was described as being a novel for "readers who enjoy rich worldbuilding" which describes me to a T (worldbuilding is my forte).
Initially, I found myself a little disappointed in what I read. The story was slow to start and almost felt as if I was missing something. However, I did not have to read too far into the story for that opinion to change in a very drastic manner. Lehnen's prose is captivating and his characters are a delight to read. The darker theme of the story kept me hooked and I found I was soon at a place where I couldn't put it down.
The vivid descriptions make every part of the story feel real and alive as you read it, and Lehnen pays just the right amount of attention to each and every detail, ensuring the reader is drawn deep into the story, one page at a time. If you enjoy a blended fantasy experience; if you enjoy any of the references listed above; if you are a fan of Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli; if you fall into any of these categories, then I recommend this book for you.
4.5 Stars (rounded up), though it could have been an easy 5 stars had I been able to get hooked earlier in the story.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and T. H. Lehnen for this eARC.
In the first 40% of this book, I was mesmerized, I thought the concept was fascinating, and the writing executed the idea very well. That was until the REST of the book happened.
I genuinely could barely push myself to read this, it felt like some of the ideas weren't fleshed out very well. The lore with Dunkirk and the wizards was poorly described in the story, I just felt lost. This book also didn't need to be as long as it was, the middle and the end dragged on forever. I found myself only being able to read a few pages at a time before getting bored and bogged down.
I think the author has great potential, but didn't deliver this story to the best of their ability.
In the first 40% of this book, I was mesmerized, I thought the concept was fascinating, and the writing executed the idea very well. That was until the REST of the book happened.
I genuinely could barely push myself to read this, it felt like some of the ideas weren't fleshed out very well. The lore with Dunkirk and the wizards was poorly described in the story, I just felt lost. This book also didn't need to be as long as it was, the middle and the end dragged on forever. I found myself only being able to read a few pages at a time before getting bored and bogged down.
I think the author has great potential, but didn't deliver this story to the best of their ability.
February 25, 2024
Fog & Fireflies is a magical story about Ogma, a girl living in a world where children fight against a mysterious fog that will take anyone who is an adult. The world building in this was done so well- from the first pages, the reader is immersed in a world of mysterious fog creatures, the shifting fogs, and those who travel among the fog.
This is classified as YA, but as an adult reader I found this to be incredibly engaging. The book is YA in the sense that it doesn’t delve into adult content and the protagonist is a girl, but the adventurous nature of the plot linen and depth of characterization makes it appropriate for all ages. It’s been a long time since I read a fantasy I enjoyed this much, and I hope this author writes a second book set in this world to continue Ogma’s story!
This is classified as YA, but as an adult reader I found this to be incredibly engaging. The book is YA in the sense that it doesn’t delve into adult content and the protagonist is a girl, but the adventurous nature of the plot linen and depth of characterization makes it appropriate for all ages. It’s been a long time since I read a fantasy I enjoyed this much, and I hope this author writes a second book set in this world to continue Ogma’s story!
April 7, 2024
Amazing book!
I was captured by the cover art and pulled in further by the overview.
Fog & Fireflies is labeled as YA but I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy, definitely a book anyone age 9+ will enjoy.
The author did such a great job world building, his descriptive writing is incredible, I felt like I was watching a movie while reading.
His character development is unbelievable, I fell in love with almost each person in the story.
The plot is remarkable, if you have a young person that you are trying to introduce to reading this is a great book to start with.
There is always that one book that leaves an impression on you growing up, that you remember started your love of reading… this is that book!
I was captured by the cover art and pulled in further by the overview.
Fog & Fireflies is labeled as YA but I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy, definitely a book anyone age 9+ will enjoy.
The author did such a great job world building, his descriptive writing is incredible, I felt like I was watching a movie while reading.
His character development is unbelievable, I fell in love with almost each person in the story.
The plot is remarkable, if you have a young person that you are trying to introduce to reading this is a great book to start with.
There is always that one book that leaves an impression on you growing up, that you remember started your love of reading… this is that book!
June 22, 2024
This book has a lot of fog in it. The fog obscures villages, changes terrain, abducts people. Perhaps it also abducted the plot and the character development, because both of those were MIA. Dnf’d as life is too short to waste time on books you’re not enjoying. Someone else might love this book, but it was a resounding nope for me.
April 7, 2024
This book was something special. I wasn't expecting much while I dove into it, I've had a string of flops lately, I was expecting another, but boy was I blown away when I read this one.
I normally read books based on older characters, but the MC in this book is a teenager and I absolutely adored her, she was full of sass, strength and held everyone she knew as close to her as family. She felt emotions deeply but also showed how powerful her inner strength was in times of trouble.
The story is based around a village surrounded by a spooky fog, there are others of course, but this particular village is central to the story, they communicate on patrol using bells, now I couldn't shake the idea of cowbells for a while, not sure why, but I'm sure they were more like jingly bells.
The world is rich with phantom creatures, beautiful tree folk, wizards, animal type humans, fog dwelling beasts, puppeteers, and intense yet endearing mystery!
I loved following the journey of the characters, I felt invested in their lives and was holding my breath waiting for answers to come!
This book gave me a sense of a misfit family, all of these people who have been raised together but aren't related, taking care of each other. It felt bittersweet, knowing that it was forced upon them, being separated from any kin, and made to live a life to protect adults. To be a parent figure to other youngsters, any bonds made likely to be separated once again.. Thus the family is ever expanding, but the stories told will last for many seasons.
They share a living space, cozy and take their mission very seriously so when it all goes to shit, they all have each others backs. The bonds made in this book stand the test of time and distance.
I wasn't expecting the mega curveball ending, that was a right knock out! Well played, my friend. I truly hope there's a follow up book to this because I loved it so much. It wasn't so much as a cliffhanger, I just feel like I want to be lost in the fog with this story a while longer yet, like there's more to say!
I will recommend this book, and really hope it gains some further attention, as it was such a pleasant and mysterious read! A nice clean one too!
A well deserved 4* shiny stars from me!
"Now, we sail the fog!"
I normally read books based on older characters, but the MC in this book is a teenager and I absolutely adored her, she was full of sass, strength and held everyone she knew as close to her as family. She felt emotions deeply but also showed how powerful her inner strength was in times of trouble.
The story is based around a village surrounded by a spooky fog, there are others of course, but this particular village is central to the story, they communicate on patrol using bells, now I couldn't shake the idea of cowbells for a while, not sure why, but I'm sure they were more like jingly bells.
The world is rich with phantom creatures, beautiful tree folk, wizards, animal type humans, fog dwelling beasts, puppeteers, and intense yet endearing mystery!
I loved following the journey of the characters, I felt invested in their lives and was holding my breath waiting for answers to come!
This book gave me a sense of a misfit family, all of these people who have been raised together but aren't related, taking care of each other. It felt bittersweet, knowing that it was forced upon them, being separated from any kin, and made to live a life to protect adults. To be a parent figure to other youngsters, any bonds made likely to be separated once again.. Thus the family is ever expanding, but the stories told will last for many seasons.
They share a living space, cozy and take their mission very seriously so when it all goes to shit, they all have each others backs. The bonds made in this book stand the test of time and distance.
I wasn't expecting the mega curveball ending, that was a right knock out! Well played, my friend. I truly hope there's a follow up book to this because I loved it so much. It wasn't so much as a cliffhanger, I just feel like I want to be lost in the fog with this story a while longer yet, like there's more to say!
I will recommend this book, and really hope it gains some further attention, as it was such a pleasant and mysterious read! A nice clean one too!
A well deserved 4* shiny stars from me!
"Now, we sail the fog!"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2025
In this unique fantasy, Ogma's village is surrounded by a fog that hides the dangerous phantoms that are only deadly to adults. Children protect the village by guarding the walls, only trusting their bells to communicate. When there is an attack on their village, many children are taken away and in Ogma's rescue attempt, she is lost in the fog. Ogma must find the courage to navigate the dangers of the fog and find a way to save her friends.
Fog & Fireflies was first brought to my attention during the author's audiobook tour at my local Barnes and Noble. I was completely captivated by the cover and the surrounding artwork of the characters you meet in the story. I had a great discussion with the author, and I couldn't wait to dive into this fantasy. When I saw the audiobook available to review, it was an immediate request.
This book was such a fun fantasy. Although this book is targeted to more of a young adult audience, Ogma's adventures can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. The dangerous world is filled with fantastical creatures and magic that seems to change the occupants of the fog in mysterious ways. The conclusion leaves several questions unanswered, and I can't wait for the next book in this series to unravel more of the mystery.
Thank you to NetGalley, Aspen and Thorn Press and T.H Lehnen for the opportunity to review Fog and Fireflies. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Fog & Fireflies was first brought to my attention during the author's audiobook tour at my local Barnes and Noble. I was completely captivated by the cover and the surrounding artwork of the characters you meet in the story. I had a great discussion with the author, and I couldn't wait to dive into this fantasy. When I saw the audiobook available to review, it was an immediate request.
This book was such a fun fantasy. Although this book is targeted to more of a young adult audience, Ogma's adventures can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. The dangerous world is filled with fantastical creatures and magic that seems to change the occupants of the fog in mysterious ways. The conclusion leaves several questions unanswered, and I can't wait for the next book in this series to unravel more of the mystery.
Thank you to NetGalley, Aspen and Thorn Press and T.H Lehnen for the opportunity to review Fog and Fireflies. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 6, 2024
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
Quotes
'True stories are often sad.'
- Wheeler
'They are dancing. Like the stars.'
- Narrator
Review
Likes:
Cover. I actually only got the physical copy for the cover, but hear me out. The book blurb was interesting too and I never got a physical copy before so I was really excited for it. The book also has more than one cover and they all keep the style of the main cover.
The wording might be confusing at times, but it's creative. Perhaps you have to think a bit longer when reading the book, but it has its own uniqueness.
Doesn't take long to get exciting.
The fog isn't always there. And it's not that rare when it disappears. Yes, it doesn't happen every week, but it's not the typical 'It happened 100 years ago...' story. That's really cool and I am fond of it.
The foreign boy who doesn't speak their language doesn't understand all the time the others and vice versa. Ogma only understands him via his body language and her own memory of stuff. That makes a lot of sense and it's not like she understands him and knows everything without a right explanation.
In chapter 'blank faces' it got really exciting. And the chapter after that a twist of plot came. Totally unpredictable. I didn't even know that something like that was happening. That in chapter 'lost' we would meet some 'interesting' characters. It was so funny. And so crazy. Gave me fairy tale vibes. I'm a fan of fairy tales, so I turned the pages faster and faster, wanting to know more. As someone who always knows the plots of murder mysteries and stuff and never gets impressed by twists I must say this one was really good. You can't predict it, 'cause it got never mentioned before. It kinda did, but you could never know what is actually meant. And you won't predict what 'interesting' characters would be there. Trust me, it's so good and funny, you will love it.
The world building is really good. I would consider it as high fantasy as there are many places where Ogma travels and they all are unique in their own way. Each place gets described perfectly and one can easily make a picture up in their mind on how it would look like.
At the beginning of the book we get told that Ogma is 14 seasons old and at first it was confusing, but it gets explained later on near the end of the book that the word 'year' doesn't exist in her language, they use 'season' instead. So there is a reason behind this, yes one might not know it from the start, but I think it's obvious that she isn't 54 years old and actually 14 as the book is about children protecting the adults.
Dislikes:
Chapters. Some are only 12 pages long, as long as a chapter should be, but some are over 50 pages long. Some read chapter-wise and that is a bit problematic. It makes the book also feel longer than it actually is.
Personally, I think that the 7.,8. and 9. chapters were all a bit slow. The 7. had at least a story to tell, so that made sense, but the 8. and 9. could have been shorter.
Rating
How it works: Only everything that is lower than 9 gets reduced from the final rating. Depending on how strong it inflicted the overall enjoyment of reading it effects differently.
[ Story 8 / 10 ]
[ Characters 10 / 10 ]
[ Triggering 0 / 10 ]
[ Topic/Genre 10 / 10 ]
[ Writing style 9 / 10 ]
[ Grammatic and spelling 10 / 10 ]
[ Ending 10 / 10 ]
Final Rating
4/5
End note/Final thoughts:
Thank you for the advanced reader copy of Fog & Fireflies by T.H. Lehnen. And thank you so much for putting the trust into me and giving me a physical copy.
Started the book: 2. April 2024
Finished the book: 6. April 2024
Wrote the review: 6. April 2024
Quotes
'True stories are often sad.'
- Wheeler
'They are dancing. Like the stars.'
- Narrator
Review
Likes:
Cover. I actually only got the physical copy for the cover, but hear me out. The book blurb was interesting too and I never got a physical copy before so I was really excited for it. The book also has more than one cover and they all keep the style of the main cover.
The wording might be confusing at times, but it's creative. Perhaps you have to think a bit longer when reading the book, but it has its own uniqueness.
Doesn't take long to get exciting.
The fog isn't always there. And it's not that rare when it disappears. Yes, it doesn't happen every week, but it's not the typical 'It happened 100 years ago...' story. That's really cool and I am fond of it.
The foreign boy who doesn't speak their language doesn't understand all the time the others and vice versa. Ogma only understands him via his body language and her own memory of stuff. That makes a lot of sense and it's not like she understands him and knows everything without a right explanation.
In chapter 'blank faces' it got really exciting. And the chapter after that a twist of plot came. Totally unpredictable. I didn't even know that something like that was happening. That in chapter 'lost' we would meet some 'interesting' characters. It was so funny. And so crazy. Gave me fairy tale vibes. I'm a fan of fairy tales, so I turned the pages faster and faster, wanting to know more. As someone who always knows the plots of murder mysteries and stuff and never gets impressed by twists I must say this one was really good. You can't predict it, 'cause it got never mentioned before. It kinda did, but you could never know what is actually meant. And you won't predict what 'interesting' characters would be there. Trust me, it's so good and funny, you will love it.
The world building is really good. I would consider it as high fantasy as there are many places where Ogma travels and they all are unique in their own way. Each place gets described perfectly and one can easily make a picture up in their mind on how it would look like.
At the beginning of the book we get told that Ogma is 14 seasons old and at first it was confusing, but it gets explained later on near the end of the book that the word 'year' doesn't exist in her language, they use 'season' instead. So there is a reason behind this, yes one might not know it from the start, but I think it's obvious that she isn't 54 years old and actually 14 as the book is about children protecting the adults.
Dislikes:
Chapters. Some are only 12 pages long, as long as a chapter should be, but some are over 50 pages long. Some read chapter-wise and that is a bit problematic. It makes the book also feel longer than it actually is.
Personally, I think that the 7.,8. and 9. chapters were all a bit slow. The 7. had at least a story to tell, so that made sense, but the 8. and 9. could have been shorter.
Rating
How it works: Only everything that is lower than 9 gets reduced from the final rating. Depending on how strong it inflicted the overall enjoyment of reading it effects differently.
[ Story 8 / 10 ]
[ Characters 10 / 10 ]
[ Triggering 0 / 10 ]
[ Topic/Genre 10 / 10 ]
[ Writing style 9 / 10 ]
[ Grammatic and spelling 10 / 10 ]
[ Ending 10 / 10 ]
Final Rating
4/5
End note/Final thoughts:
Thank you for the advanced reader copy of Fog & Fireflies by T.H. Lehnen. And thank you so much for putting the trust into me and giving me a physical copy.
Started the book: 2. April 2024
Finished the book: 6. April 2024
Wrote the review: 6. April 2024
April 15, 2024
the beginning of this book took me awhile to get into. i had not much of an idea of what was going on. however, it quickly turned into a fairytale that felt reminiscent of The Labyrinth and The Neverending Story. there is so much found family and so much growth for Ogma. i loved her and I will always carry her with me. i loved that this was filled with stories that the characters told for world building. it didn't feel like it was dumping information, but like you were a child being told a story. it was great. i would love to read more from this author.
thank you to netgalley for an arc of this book.
thank you to netgalley for an arc of this book.
April 29, 2024
"Fog & Fireflies" by T.H. Lehman is a hauntingly beautiful tale that captivates from the very first page. Lehman weaves a narrative that is both enchanting and thought-provoking, leaving readers unable to shake its spell. The dark fairytale vibe permeates every aspect of the story, drawing readers into a world where reality blurs with the fantastical.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its characters, each one intricately crafted and deeply compelling. As the chapters unfold, readers develop emotional bonds with these characters, feeling their joys and sorrows as if they were their own.
Lehman's writing style is poetic and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the mysterious world in which the story unfolds. With each turn of the page, anticipation builds, leading to a climax that leaves readers craving more.
With its cinematic qualities and gripping storyline, "Fog & Fireflies" is ripe for adaptation to the big screen. It's a journey that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned, leaving readers eagerly awaiting the next installment.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its characters, each one intricately crafted and deeply compelling. As the chapters unfold, readers develop emotional bonds with these characters, feeling their joys and sorrows as if they were their own.
Lehman's writing style is poetic and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the mysterious world in which the story unfolds. With each turn of the page, anticipation builds, leading to a climax that leaves readers craving more.
With its cinematic qualities and gripping storyline, "Fog & Fireflies" is ripe for adaptation to the big screen. It's a journey that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned, leaving readers eagerly awaiting the next installment.
May 30, 2024
Thank you to netgalley for the free e-arc of this book. This review is my honest opinion of this book.
"This is why we watch the fog." Dangerous fog surrounds the city, it can make you hear voices and see terrifying creatures. It is up to the children of the village to keep the adults within their walls safe. One of the things that helps keep the fog away are the fireflies. The other is the sheer tenacity of the children and main heroine, 14 year old Ogma. She finds a mysterious young man within the fog and dives off the walls to save him. But he speaks a language completely foreign to everyone within the walls, and it's not the language of the mysterious caravaners who travel through the mists. When the children are abducted in a night raid on a fog free evening. Ogma leaps into action, literally, to retrieve the others. And becomes lost in the fog.
I would love to give this five stars but there is just too much going on in this book. There are so many plot points that get crammed together and some that end up being dropped and left unanswered. Kings, wizards, blue beetle soldiers. No answers about them.
There are lots of characters introduced, some you think will be pivotal to the plot, but they're in like 3 scenes. Like some other reviewers, I think this could have been broken up and expanded into two books so that some of the additional story lines could be followed and finished.
I still enjoyed the book. It would be a good read from middle school up. I think it would be a little frightening for younger readers, in a Coraline-esque way.
"This is why we watch the fog." Dangerous fog surrounds the city, it can make you hear voices and see terrifying creatures. It is up to the children of the village to keep the adults within their walls safe. One of the things that helps keep the fog away are the fireflies. The other is the sheer tenacity of the children and main heroine, 14 year old Ogma. She finds a mysterious young man within the fog and dives off the walls to save him. But he speaks a language completely foreign to everyone within the walls, and it's not the language of the mysterious caravaners who travel through the mists. When the children are abducted in a night raid on a fog free evening. Ogma leaps into action, literally, to retrieve the others. And becomes lost in the fog.
I would love to give this five stars but there is just too much going on in this book. There are so many plot points that get crammed together and some that end up being dropped and left unanswered. Kings, wizards, blue beetle soldiers. No answers about them.
There are lots of characters introduced, some you think will be pivotal to the plot, but they're in like 3 scenes. Like some other reviewers, I think this could have been broken up and expanded into two books so that some of the additional story lines could be followed and finished.
I still enjoyed the book. It would be a good read from middle school up. I think it would be a little frightening for younger readers, in a Coraline-esque way.
March 12, 2024
For anyone craving a nostalgic, coming-of-age fantasy with a touch of darkness, reminiscent of Pan's Labyrinth and The Neverending story, there is finally a fresh tale for you in Fogs & Fireflies. The world is fascinating from page one; we are introduced to Ogma, a child, approaching her teenage years at most, patrolling the walls of her town, looking out for phantoms in the malicious fog outside the walls. Why are children in charge of protecting the town? What is the fog?
I was delighted by the cast of brutally honest but charmingly individual children who are so resilient in the face of such darkness. The way they are both petty like young children often get, but will band together and protect each other when faced with adversity is so real. It is something that we lose as we grow up, along with the wonder and fearlessness.
Reading tip: play Studio Ghibli soundtracks while reading this, if background music is your jam. It made it even more magical for me, especially with music from Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Laputa and Princess Mononoke.
Thank you NetGalley, Aspen & Thorn Press and the author for this advance review copy, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Why do we get more afraid when we get older?"
I was delighted by the cast of brutally honest but charmingly individual children who are so resilient in the face of such darkness. The way they are both petty like young children often get, but will band together and protect each other when faced with adversity is so real. It is something that we lose as we grow up, along with the wonder and fearlessness.
Reading tip: play Studio Ghibli soundtracks while reading this, if background music is your jam. It made it even more magical for me, especially with music from Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Laputa and Princess Mononoke.
Thank you NetGalley, Aspen & Thorn Press and the author for this advance review copy, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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