I Left My Hormones In Another World: Vol. 1

by Angela Wicke, Melanie Kiehl (editor), Krysta Bueckert (illustrator)

"My name is Jen Joyce. I was just an average, ordinary woman working at a dead end job until I found myself dumped into Bastion, the capital city of a fantasy world watched over by the benevolent goddess Lenora. As Lenora's chosen one, it's up to me to rise through the ranks, leveling up my skills and gear to eventually face off with the demon lord Ventalus and free the world from darkness. There's just one I left my hormones in another world. But that's no reason to panic; it's not like it'll take that long for me to cheese my way to the final boss and go home. Right?"

Inspired by isekai light novels, fantasy RPGs, and a desire to see more trans and queer representation in media, I Left My Hormones in Another World is the debut novel of author Angela Wicke and the beginning of a new series of the same name. Join snarky everywoman Jen Joyce on a lighthearted yet action-packed adventure in a world of swords and sorcery that will test her strength, wit, and patience, taking her from the bustling streets of Bastion into the fiery depths of a volcano and the war-torn ravine where she'll face her destiny.

108 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 7, 2024

Reviews

[Ashley Ottesen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightfully spellbinding read.

This quick tale of a trans woman unwillingly transported into a world worthy of a DND Dungeon Master story was simply riveting. Each turn of the page was met with more humorous quips, dangerous quests, and enlightening themes about not judging others for their differences.

Insightful. Witty. And far too short. I enjoyed every minute. 👏

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read if you enjoy fantasy with a deeper metaphor behind it. Amidst the exciting quests and Jen Joyce’s quick wit that will have you laughing out loud, you get a first person perspective of being transgender in a world where the concept is foreign. The concept (unfortunately) translates to the transgender experience in our own world. Many take for granted the privileges some have over others, and this book encapsulates just how unsettling, frustrating, and tiresome not being accepted for who you are can be. Seeing Jen Joyce persevere despite the struggles she faces in this fantasy world is a great message for those feeling misunderstood and I am very fortunate to have been one of the first to read this book! Highly recommend

[Kerri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am neither a gamer nor a normal fantasy reader but I thoroughly enjoyed this book! (I admit I had to google some of the vocabulary!). Through this fun and witty adventure in a fantasy land, I got a glimpse into what life must be like for trans people in our society. Storytelling is such a powerful tool, and this story will absolutely help cisgender folks understand some of the daily struggles of the transgender community. Well done!!

[Olivia S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story! The main character, Jen, is pure witty sarcasm and humorous vulgarity in the best way. And the world building, the magic system and unique species that we see were really interesting and make me want to see more. This world has a lot of potential for future novels.

Sometimes stories have transgender side characters that are just thrown in for inclusivity with no real follow through. This was NOT that type of story. It was really inspiring to read something with a transgender lead, and have their gender identity be a main function of the plot. The fictional world is not the most tolerant, however even though there are missteps with how people address our hero’s gender identity, many learn and grow, especially in our hero’s party. The characters that join Jen are refreshingly unique with fun personalities, and it’s nice that they have their own flaws and preconceived notions to overcome.

This would be a good story for someone in the LGBTQ+ community, but I believe it would also be enjoyed by gamers and fantasy lovers alike. If you enjoy all three, then you’ll love this.

I’m eagerly awaiting Volume 2!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

jen joyce is torn from home and must contend with not only being tasked to save this new world, but doing so without her hormones.

wicke balances the high-fantasy setting and fantastical objectives with the grounded reality of what it means to be transgender in a world where people often do not, cannot, and will not understand. the interactions surrounding jen’s gender feel real; her adventures showcase her depth and bravery in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

“hormones” is a fast-paced, engaging, fun read with a satisfying arc and characters i enjoyed spending time with; i look forward to the second volume!

[Taylor Skrotzki (McCauley) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful, fun, extraordinarily funny, quick read. Despite the situation Jen finds herself in, she is quick to adapt and forces her companions to do the same. I went through quite the journey of emotions reading this.
Wicke demonstrates mastery of character development as we go through this adventure with Jen (and others that I don’t want to spoil). I found myself angry, laughing, sad, shocked… incredible. 10/10. I can’t wait for volume 2!!!!

[Aidan S · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for any fans of isakai!!!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting twist on what's become a common trope - and really, just a fun read!

[Sam Goebler · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title says it all, it is exactly the book I wanted to read. I love Lady Jen of Connecticut trying to live her best life while stuck in a world with even more stupid gender roles than our own, fighting against the stereotypes to become the world's best (and only) female knight.

If you like isekai and fun queer fiction, just read it, what are you waiting for?