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The Carbon Chronicles #1
Warm-Blooded
Could you abandon your past, your family, even your own name for the chance to be a hero?
Millions attempt to do just that by applying to East Technical Institute’s hero program, trying to earn the right to use the powers they were born with. After all, only licensed heroes can use their powers freely; if they are not accepted into the program, those caught using their abilities— even to save themselves— are branded villains.
Kirin has, in his opinion, only barely managed to grab one of these spots. He’s determined to make the most of the opportunity, doing his best to focus on the rigorous program itself. But, more and more, he’s drawn to his most standoffish classmate, a man who knows more about the secretive school than he should.
When disaster strikes midway through his first school year, Kirin and his classmates are thrown into the conflict of hero versus villain, as well as human versus superhuman. Battling prejudice and his own past, Kirin must decide what being a hero is worth and what he’s willing to sacrifice to become one. After all, in a world that treats most people with powers as monsters, it’s not easy to see the line between victim and villain.
Millions attempt to do just that by applying to East Technical Institute’s hero program, trying to earn the right to use the powers they were born with. After all, only licensed heroes can use their powers freely; if they are not accepted into the program, those caught using their abilities— even to save themselves— are branded villains.
Kirin has, in his opinion, only barely managed to grab one of these spots. He’s determined to make the most of the opportunity, doing his best to focus on the rigorous program itself. But, more and more, he’s drawn to his most standoffish classmate, a man who knows more about the secretive school than he should.
When disaster strikes midway through his first school year, Kirin and his classmates are thrown into the conflict of hero versus villain, as well as human versus superhuman. Battling prejudice and his own past, Kirin must decide what being a hero is worth and what he’s willing to sacrifice to become one. After all, in a world that treats most people with powers as monsters, it’s not easy to see the line between victim and villain.
527 pages, Paperback
Published December 21, 2024
6 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
J Greene
2 books11 followersJ is a queer, disabled, white person trying to write the stories that they wanted to see growing up. They love reading fantasy and history, gardening, and baking, as well as spending far too much time spoiling their rabbit, Chomp. WARM-BLOODED is their debut novel, the first of the Carbon Chronicles trilogy, but they have ideas for about a dozen more.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
September 23, 2024
I wouldn't normally pick up a book from this genre, I never cared much for stories about superheroes but this book managed to bypass that and became so much more.
I've been lucky enough to be one of the beta readers for this book, but it doesn't mean it makes me more willing to ignore what I wouldn't like in a book, and I can confidently say that Warm-Blooded had everything to make me love it. I also have no doubt it has been one of my favorite books in the last 5 years and easily reach my top 3.
The story is good, accompanied by wonderful worldbuilding but more importantly, great characters (even though sometimes my brain had a hard time remembering who's who, but that might say more about me than the book-). I'm a sucker for the well-crafted characters that don't fall into stereotypes, with bonds that are formed on and off the page as if you're only taking a peek in their lives, without making you feel like the relationships between background characters come from nowhere.
I also judge a book on whether the MAIN main character is likable, as I find many main protagonists whiny, boring, or simply outshone by their more likable side character. It's not the case in Warm-Blooded, even if my favorite character isn't Kirin, he's very close to the top. Highly likable, but also highly relatable at times, a hero you want to see succeed through it all, what's not to love.
Overall, I read it twice and enjoyed it both times, some parts still burnt in my brain months after. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book.
Despite me being a beta reader, I am leaving a review voluntarily as I think more people would enjoy it, and hopefully it can be the push some need to take a peek at it.
I've been lucky enough to be one of the beta readers for this book, but it doesn't mean it makes me more willing to ignore what I wouldn't like in a book, and I can confidently say that Warm-Blooded had everything to make me love it. I also have no doubt it has been one of my favorite books in the last 5 years and easily reach my top 3.
The story is good, accompanied by wonderful worldbuilding but more importantly, great characters (even though sometimes my brain had a hard time remembering who's who, but that might say more about me than the book-). I'm a sucker for the well-crafted characters that don't fall into stereotypes, with bonds that are formed on and off the page as if you're only taking a peek in their lives, without making you feel like the relationships between background characters come from nowhere.
I also judge a book on whether the MAIN main character is likable, as I find many main protagonists whiny, boring, or simply outshone by their more likable side character. It's not the case in Warm-Blooded, even if my favorite character isn't Kirin, he's very close to the top. Highly likable, but also highly relatable at times, a hero you want to see succeed through it all, what's not to love.
Overall, I read it twice and enjoyed it both times, some parts still burnt in my brain months after. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book.
Despite me being a beta reader, I am leaving a review voluntarily as I think more people would enjoy it, and hopefully it can be the push some need to take a peek at it.
November 5, 2024
⚠️trigger warning ⚠️ child abuse/neglect (mentioned/implied) comic typical violence, cult/extremist groups, death/death of a parent, discrimination based on appearance/abilities, kidnapping, gore, (not described in details), gun violence, language, murder, police brutality, and terrorism
4⭐️ J YOU GIVE ME BOOK 2 RIGHT NOW!!!! OR JUST HURRY UP WITH IT!!! but also thank you for letting me have this arc read and for your book to be the first arc experience I have🥰🥰🥰
Admittedly, this took me a while to finish. It started out slow, and a whole lot of characters introduced, but after a while and getting adjusted to seeing these people personality and their abilities, I was able to tell who is who and made the story a lot easier to follow. A whole lot of shit was going on once I got past the first 10 chapters, and it was something I was waiting for. I didn't mind the classmate all just hanging out, getting to know each other, and having chill vibes, but I was waiting for some action to happen, wanted to see their powers in use and it finally did!! by far, Ifrit is my favourite character 🥰🥰 just love how they crated his unique power. They already know this, but this gives off the vibes of my hero Academia, and is it because it's a superhero story? yes, yes, it is!! so if you're into that kind of stuff 👀 *slides book over*
Overall, I'm excited for book 2, and this was a journey to read and get done, but a great one. Would 100% recommend this, and if super heroes hasn't convinced you yet, then what if I told you there's some artwork inside🤭🤭🤭 one of my favourite things to look forward to with each page turn. The first being Ifrit presence obviously 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭 a̶l̶s̶o̶ ̶I̶ ̶w̶o̶u̶l̶d̶ ̶l̶i̶k̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶o̶s̶e̶ ̶b̶o̶o̶k̶m̶a̶r̶k̶s̶ ̶p̶l̶e̶a̶s̶e̶ ̶J̶.̶ ̶j̶k̶ ̶j̶k̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶ ̶u̶n̶l̶e̶s̶s̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶
4⭐️ J YOU GIVE ME BOOK 2 RIGHT NOW!!!! OR JUST HURRY UP WITH IT!!! but also thank you for letting me have this arc read and for your book to be the first arc experience I have🥰🥰🥰
Admittedly, this took me a while to finish. It started out slow, and a whole lot of characters introduced, but after a while and getting adjusted to seeing these people personality and their abilities, I was able to tell who is who and made the story a lot easier to follow. A whole lot of shit was going on once I got past the first 10 chapters, and it was something I was waiting for. I didn't mind the classmate all just hanging out, getting to know each other, and having chill vibes, but I was waiting for some action to happen, wanted to see their powers in use and it finally did!! by far, Ifrit is my favourite character 🥰🥰 just love how they crated his unique power. They already know this, but this gives off the vibes of my hero Academia, and is it because it's a superhero story? yes, yes, it is!! so if you're into that kind of stuff 👀 *slides book over*
Overall, I'm excited for book 2, and this was a journey to read and get done, but a great one. Would 100% recommend this, and if super heroes hasn't convinced you yet, then what if I told you there's some artwork inside🤭🤭🤭 one of my favourite things to look forward to with each page turn. The first being Ifrit presence obviously 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭 a̶l̶s̶o̶ ̶I̶ ̶w̶o̶u̶l̶d̶ ̶l̶i̶k̶e̶ ̶t̶h̶o̶s̶e̶ ̶b̶o̶o̶k̶m̶a̶r̶k̶s̶ ̶p̶l̶e̶a̶s̶e̶ ̶J̶.̶ ̶j̶k̶ ̶j̶k̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶ ̶u̶n̶l̶e̶s̶s̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶.̶
February 8, 2025
I absolutely ADORED this book. The characters are so wholesome and heartwarming I love them so much. What really shocked me is how much I love the main character (you’re in his head pretty much the whole time). Typically when I read a book the main character doesn’t end up being my favorite character but it was so refreshing to read a book that proved otherwise!
I don’t want to give anything away for those who haven’t read it so I will leave my review here, but J knows I will be texting them all of my other feelings. All I can say is I need the next book NOW.
I don’t want to give anything away for those who haven’t read it so I will leave my review here, but J knows I will be texting them all of my other feelings. All I can say is I need the next book NOW.
December 7, 2025
Queer disabled superheroes in college? A sharp look at the ways society categorizes some disabled & queer people as acceptable and palatable, and others as villains and outcasts? Bring it on.
Warm-Blooded follows Kirin, who has given up his identity to be a government-approved hero. Even though a good segment of this futuristic world is born with powers, only licensed heroes are permitted to use them. Otherwise, you’re considered a villain.
Millions apply to the East Technical Institute for heroes, but Kirin has snagged one of the coveted spots. He does his best to focus on his training and find new friendships in his slightly unusual cohort of fellow students, including prickly Ifrit. But when a new entity rises up and threatens the hero's way of life, Kirin’s group ends up in the middle of the danger and action. He has to figure out what’s really worth fighting for, and who the monsters truly are.
I had a very enjoyable time with this one! It’s an inclusive, action-packed, friendship-filled story that chews on the question: who are ‘acceptable’ heroes and who are we more comfortable villainizing?
There’s lots of queer and disabled representation that is casually and warmly part of the story. The main character is trans and somewhere on the a-spec, and there are genderfluid and nonbinary and other queer supporting characters. Kirin is also dyslexic, and there are a wide range of disabilities shown across the spectrum, from physical disabilities to learning disabilities to mental health.
The story also explores privilege and oppression and the contradictory nature of a system that needs a group of people for society to function but also treats them like they are less than human. People with powers are seen as monsters except for a small handful that are venerated heroes (though treated like objects in the process and forced to be completely anonymous), but even then they are always one moment away from losing everything. They’ll love you until you become a necessary sacrifice.
The heroes in Kirin’s squad have visible differences, and that’s when the outside world typically shoves back. They’re not the type of powered people that are seen as palatable by the masses, and a lot of them are working on healing from childhood trauma. Most of them saw this training as a form of freedom, a way to escape their past lives and start over.
But outside of the heavier stuff - this is fun! We get to see friendships form and powers grow and lots of banter and excitement. The school setting and class scenes are all interesting, and the powers explored are very unique.
Overall, I really enjoyed the character work and the slowly-emerging relationships. There’s a large ensemble cast, which did get a bit confusing at times because they were introduced in bulk and not all of them were able to be fully fleshed out in this first book. But their dynamics were thoughtful, and I loved that we got glimpses of them operating and forming their own relationships in the background of our focus as readers.
The writing didn’t blow me away, but it didn’t make me stumble, either. It was mostly clear and direct, and I was able to understand the action scenes without too much trouble. Some of the dialogue wasn’t as strong (Ifrit’s especially was very one-note and I wish we could have explored his black cat energy in more varied ways because it was getting repetitive), but I was engaged with the story the whole way through.
If you enjoy superhero sagas, I do think you’ll have a great time with this one.
Also, I loved the bunny shoutout. Persephone (Percy) says hi to Chomp!
CW: death (parent/child), child abuse, murder, violence, guns, gore, grief, police brutality, kidnapping, ableism, blood, cursing
Follow me on social media for book recommendations!
Follow me on social media for book recommendations!
(I received a free copy of this book; this is my honest review.)
Warm-Blooded follows Kirin, who has given up his identity to be a government-approved hero. Even though a good segment of this futuristic world is born with powers, only licensed heroes are permitted to use them. Otherwise, you’re considered a villain.
Millions apply to the East Technical Institute for heroes, but Kirin has snagged one of the coveted spots. He does his best to focus on his training and find new friendships in his slightly unusual cohort of fellow students, including prickly Ifrit. But when a new entity rises up and threatens the hero's way of life, Kirin’s group ends up in the middle of the danger and action. He has to figure out what’s really worth fighting for, and who the monsters truly are.
I had a very enjoyable time with this one! It’s an inclusive, action-packed, friendship-filled story that chews on the question: who are ‘acceptable’ heroes and who are we more comfortable villainizing?
There’s lots of queer and disabled representation that is casually and warmly part of the story. The main character is trans and somewhere on the a-spec, and there are genderfluid and nonbinary and other queer supporting characters. Kirin is also dyslexic, and there are a wide range of disabilities shown across the spectrum, from physical disabilities to learning disabilities to mental health.
The story also explores privilege and oppression and the contradictory nature of a system that needs a group of people for society to function but also treats them like they are less than human. People with powers are seen as monsters except for a small handful that are venerated heroes (though treated like objects in the process and forced to be completely anonymous), but even then they are always one moment away from losing everything. They’ll love you until you become a necessary sacrifice.
The heroes in Kirin’s squad have visible differences, and that’s when the outside world typically shoves back. They’re not the type of powered people that are seen as palatable by the masses, and a lot of them are working on healing from childhood trauma. Most of them saw this training as a form of freedom, a way to escape their past lives and start over.
But outside of the heavier stuff - this is fun! We get to see friendships form and powers grow and lots of banter and excitement. The school setting and class scenes are all interesting, and the powers explored are very unique.
Overall, I really enjoyed the character work and the slowly-emerging relationships. There’s a large ensemble cast, which did get a bit confusing at times because they were introduced in bulk and not all of them were able to be fully fleshed out in this first book. But their dynamics were thoughtful, and I loved that we got glimpses of them operating and forming their own relationships in the background of our focus as readers.
The writing didn’t blow me away, but it didn’t make me stumble, either. It was mostly clear and direct, and I was able to understand the action scenes without too much trouble. Some of the dialogue wasn’t as strong (Ifrit’s especially was very one-note and I wish we could have explored his black cat energy in more varied ways because it was getting repetitive), but I was engaged with the story the whole way through.
If you enjoy superhero sagas, I do think you’ll have a great time with this one.
Also, I loved the bunny shoutout. Persephone (Percy) says hi to Chomp!
CW: death (parent/child), child abuse, murder, violence, guns, gore, grief, police brutality, kidnapping, ableism, blood, cursing
Follow me on social media for book recommendations!
Follow me on social media for book recommendations!
(I received a free copy of this book; this is my honest review.)
October 31, 2024
Warm-Blooded is a great debut novel and a really nice addition to the genre of super hero academies. As some of the others I've read the reader follows Kirin, the MC, from admission into East Technical Institute's hero program, through training, and out into the world where he utilise what they've learned.
What really sets this book apart from the others isn't the unique powers, though there are some really interesting ones, nor the class hierarchy which highlights that even in the future nothing has changed - the rich are several steps ahead and have no scruples attacking the less fortunate. No, its the representation , how its portrayed and how, fx. being deaf, can be not only an asset but also a unique tool that gives empathy only learned through hardship. The rich can afford to have disabilities fixed, but the poor are necessitated to learn sign language, which give our MC and friends a wealth of compassion and empathy that the rich don't have since they can just pay to be "perfect".
The whole idea of using an ability makes you a villain if you don't have the allowance to do so, is such a good commentary on rich vs poor in our society. The rich are almost guaranteed to be great heroes which gives their kids extra allowance when their ability appears, no matter the devastating cost it may have. They have access to training on the spot, whereas the poor are given no leniency. They dread getting powers, since it can undermine their entire family and social standing. Step one foot out of line and boom, you get branded a villain and the stigma sticks to your family and friends by proxy.
The story has a great flow, the characters are nuanced and balance each others out. Their story is revealed in tid bits that gives the story a natural flow. Everything about this book is a delight, and I highly recommended it!
I can't wait to read the continuation so I can get more interactions between our MC and the prickly, to put it mildly, love interest.
The only criticism I have is the information dump we get when the classmates are introduced. It's done in a good way since we get presented the same introduction any new student would get when presented with new class mates, but I felt it was too much to fast. I had a hard time remembering who was who since the characters were given names relating to their ability, often based on myths. It might just be me, who knows.
Thank you to BookSirens and J Greene for the eARC in exchange of an honest review.
What really sets this book apart from the others isn't the unique powers, though there are some really interesting ones, nor the class hierarchy which highlights that even in the future nothing has changed - the rich are several steps ahead and have no scruples attacking the less fortunate. No, its the representation , how its portrayed and how, fx. being deaf, can be not only an asset but also a unique tool that gives empathy only learned through hardship. The rich can afford to have disabilities fixed, but the poor are necessitated to learn sign language, which give our MC and friends a wealth of compassion and empathy that the rich don't have since they can just pay to be "perfect".
The whole idea of using an ability makes you a villain if you don't have the allowance to do so, is such a good commentary on rich vs poor in our society. The rich are almost guaranteed to be great heroes which gives their kids extra allowance when their ability appears, no matter the devastating cost it may have. They have access to training on the spot, whereas the poor are given no leniency. They dread getting powers, since it can undermine their entire family and social standing. Step one foot out of line and boom, you get branded a villain and the stigma sticks to your family and friends by proxy.
The story has a great flow, the characters are nuanced and balance each others out. Their story is revealed in tid bits that gives the story a natural flow. Everything about this book is a delight, and I highly recommended it!
I can't wait to read the continuation so I can get more interactions between our MC and the prickly, to put it mildly, love interest.
The only criticism I have is the information dump we get when the classmates are introduced. It's done in a good way since we get presented the same introduction any new student would get when presented with new class mates, but I felt it was too much to fast. I had a hard time remembering who was who since the characters were given names relating to their ability, often based on myths. It might just be me, who knows.
Thank you to BookSirens and J Greene for the eARC in exchange of an honest review.
November 7, 2024
This book was simply amazing. I don't know how a first time author, who is also self publishing, managed to put out such a refined, well written story. But they did.
One of my internal metrics for books is how close to the end do I have to get before I reach the point of "I'm finishing this no matter how late I have to stay up". Most good books are 85-90%. Really good books are 75%, and great books are less than that. I think I reached that point with this book at about 65%.
The concept for the story is also really great. Very much in the same category as Tj Klune's "The House in the Cerulean Sea" - using mystical/magical "otherness" to draw parallels to the issues the LGBTQ+ community face.
I don't really have much else to say without giving spoilers. If you liked TJ Klune's Cerulean Sea, or his "The Extraordinaries" series, definitely read this. If you like stories with great character building, read this. If you like stories that look at superpowers from an angle of "how would they be treated in the real world?", read this.
I'll definitely be watching this author to see what else they create!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One of my internal metrics for books is how close to the end do I have to get before I reach the point of "I'm finishing this no matter how late I have to stay up". Most good books are 85-90%. Really good books are 75%, and great books are less than that. I think I reached that point with this book at about 65%.
The concept for the story is also really great. Very much in the same category as Tj Klune's "The House in the Cerulean Sea" - using mystical/magical "otherness" to draw parallels to the issues the LGBTQ+ community face.
I don't really have much else to say without giving spoilers. If you liked TJ Klune's Cerulean Sea, or his "The Extraordinaries" series, definitely read this. If you like stories with great character building, read this. If you like stories that look at superpowers from an angle of "how would they be treated in the real world?", read this.
I'll definitely be watching this author to see what else they create!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 2, 2025
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the ARC!
This is a unique take on how superhero’s would function within a mostly non-superhero society, and all the drawbacks and red tape that would come with. It’s evocative of similar media, however where Warm-Blooded shines is the character relationships and the slow tip of morality that shines through as the plot progresses.
Kirin is our main lead, realistic about his chances to make a change and intent on trying all the same. His backstory is revealed slowly with pieces of foreshadowing dotted throughout the text before the reveal, and I loved how his powers were described. It was evocative and solid writing. His relationship with Ifrit was a highlight through the story, supportive and deeply caring of each other which only increased as the reader saw more of them both. He’s still young, able to laugh and joke with his compatriots, and he’s an excellent POV character to follow.
This is a long story and doesn’t move especially quickly which can make some sections feel daunting. There’s a broad cast of characters which leads to it being difficult to tell people apart or recall specific details about their appearances or powers. One character (Phoenix) is possibly genderfluid or changed gender in the writing process and not all the pronouns were caught but this isn’t communicated well, a pronoun pin or a just mention in the text would clarify this.
However, when the action is happening, it’s gripping and enthralling and plays out in picture perfect clarity so it’s so much fun to read. I’m so hopeful for the sequel given where the first book ends as it’s such a good set up.
This is a unique take on how superhero’s would function within a mostly non-superhero society, and all the drawbacks and red tape that would come with. It’s evocative of similar media, however where Warm-Blooded shines is the character relationships and the slow tip of morality that shines through as the plot progresses.
Kirin is our main lead, realistic about his chances to make a change and intent on trying all the same. His backstory is revealed slowly with pieces of foreshadowing dotted throughout the text before the reveal, and I loved how his powers were described. It was evocative and solid writing. His relationship with Ifrit was a highlight through the story, supportive and deeply caring of each other which only increased as the reader saw more of them both. He’s still young, able to laugh and joke with his compatriots, and he’s an excellent POV character to follow.
This is a long story and doesn’t move especially quickly which can make some sections feel daunting. There’s a broad cast of characters which leads to it being difficult to tell people apart or recall specific details about their appearances or powers. One character (Phoenix) is possibly genderfluid or changed gender in the writing process and not all the pronouns were caught but this isn’t communicated well, a pronoun pin or a just mention in the text would clarify this.
However, when the action is happening, it’s gripping and enthralling and plays out in picture perfect clarity so it’s so much fun to read. I’m so hopeful for the sequel given where the first book ends as it’s such a good set up.
December 21, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As much as I love superheroes, not many books hit the right spot for me, but this one offered an intriguing look at the genre. While it took many points that I knew from previous stories to set the mood, it still stood out with various interesting characters and concepts.
Kirin was a fantastic main character, from his uncovered past, his motivations, his kindness and powers, his voice made the story feel extremely engaging and fresh. I liked his personality, and how he interacted with other characters, especially Ifrit, was just too good. Overall, I feel like the characters were the main thing I liked about this story. There were many of them, as it is when you introduce a whole class of new people, each with a unique power and personality, but after reading for a while, I stopped being confused by who is who and instead welcomed the growing bonds between them. There is obviously more space for the growth of their little found family, with this book being the first in the trilogy, but there already was a nice feeling surrounding the class and how they worked with each other. The relationship between Kirin and Ifrit was definitely the star of it all (and I can't help but love their budding bond), but I also liked how there was enough space for others.
I have to say I struggled a bit with the pacing; sometimes, the time skips threw me out of the book. Overall, I really enjoyed the book, which I think is a solid debut, and I'm looking forward to the next one!
As much as I love superheroes, not many books hit the right spot for me, but this one offered an intriguing look at the genre. While it took many points that I knew from previous stories to set the mood, it still stood out with various interesting characters and concepts.
Kirin was a fantastic main character, from his uncovered past, his motivations, his kindness and powers, his voice made the story feel extremely engaging and fresh. I liked his personality, and how he interacted with other characters, especially Ifrit, was just too good. Overall, I feel like the characters were the main thing I liked about this story. There were many of them, as it is when you introduce a whole class of new people, each with a unique power and personality, but after reading for a while, I stopped being confused by who is who and instead welcomed the growing bonds between them. There is obviously more space for the growth of their little found family, with this book being the first in the trilogy, but there already was a nice feeling surrounding the class and how they worked with each other. The relationship between Kirin and Ifrit was definitely the star of it all (and I can't help but love their budding bond), but I also liked how there was enough space for others.
I have to say I struggled a bit with the pacing; sometimes, the time skips threw me out of the book. Overall, I really enjoyed the book, which I think is a solid debut, and I'm looking forward to the next one!
December 1, 2024
Thank you to the author for the free eARC
The idea behind this book was very interesting. The characters were compelling and I genuinely enjoyed reading about them. It's good for a debut novel, though not quite my genre, I only really have two qualms.
My qualms are that a points it did definitely seem to drag on for a bit. I read it over a day and despite the fact that there is always something going on plot-wise, I definitely found my attention waning. The other thing is the pacing of the relationship between the main character and his love interest seems a little rushed at the start, they hate each-other for a little and the suddenly they just - stop? and then their relationship kind of just stays in limbo for the next one-hundred pages.
The writing was good, and the characters powers were incredibly interesting. The world building intrigues me, but as an Australian I do kinda feel the need to point out that we refer to our indigenous peoples as First Nations peoples, so using the term to refer to Americans did take me out a little.
Overall and interesting book, with a great premise and I'm interested to see where the author goes from here. This was a great debut.
4 stars (rounding from 3.5)
The idea behind this book was very interesting. The characters were compelling and I genuinely enjoyed reading about them. It's good for a debut novel, though not quite my genre, I only really have two qualms.
My qualms are that a points it did definitely seem to drag on for a bit. I read it over a day and despite the fact that there is always something going on plot-wise, I definitely found my attention waning. The other thing is the pacing of the relationship between the main character and his love interest seems a little rushed at the start, they hate each-other for a little and the suddenly they just - stop? and then their relationship kind of just stays in limbo for the next one-hundred pages.
The writing was good, and the characters powers were incredibly interesting. The world building intrigues me, but as an Australian I do kinda feel the need to point out that we refer to our indigenous peoples as First Nations peoples, so using the term to refer to Americans did take me out a little.
Overall and interesting book, with a great premise and I'm interested to see where the author goes from here. This was a great debut.
4 stars (rounding from 3.5)
December 8, 2024
People say "this meeting should have been an email", to talk about medium, and how getting information could be better served in getting it across to an audience. This book felt like it wanted to be a comic or a cartoon. The massive cast needed the visual medium to feel more distinct. I didn't want to have to flip back to the chapter in which everyone was clumsily introduced to remember who some of the less focal characters were, and what guesses there were on their powers. I'll admit, I have aphantasia--the inability to fix every member of this massive cast with an appearance in my mind might be partially me. But I'm not the only aphant who's going to pick up this book.
I can tell the author was a fan of My Hero Academia, but wanted to advance some ideas that show left on the table about those who didn't look perfectly human and who didn't represent the image of superheroes society wanted. It's a metaphor, see? But there's also disabled characters on screen, which is a nice thing.
Also, I just didn't end up liking the viewpoint character, and on that alone probably wouldn't reach for more books in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I can tell the author was a fan of My Hero Academia, but wanted to advance some ideas that show left on the table about those who didn't look perfectly human and who didn't represent the image of superheroes society wanted. It's a metaphor, see? But there's also disabled characters on screen, which is a nice thing.
Also, I just didn't end up liking the viewpoint character, and on that alone probably wouldn't reach for more books in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 15, 2024
I haven't read consistently since I was in high school. I was lucky enough to be one of the beta readers for this book, which helped get me out of my 10 year long reading slump. Everything about this book is fantastic: the world building, the characters, the powers, the struggle, the representation, the conflict.
One of the things I enjoyed the most in Warm-Blooded was the diverse cast of characters. The book mostly takes place at a school for heroes, so there are quite a few named characters that don't get to shine as much as others, but you can't help picking up on one of those characters and just loving them to death anyway. For me, that character is Ness. When you read the book, you'll understand. (Mr McPoutyPants is also a top tier character. That's not his actual name, but you will know who I mean immediately.)
Despite the large ensemble of names characters, J does a fantastic job of giving them their own identity (hehe), personality, and depth. Each character is unique and memorable in their own way. J also does a fantastic job incorporating queer and disabled representation in the book in a way that just makes sense.
The only flaw I can find with this book is that books two and three aren't out yet. I really enjoyed reading Warm-Blooded!
One of the things I enjoyed the most in Warm-Blooded was the diverse cast of characters. The book mostly takes place at a school for heroes, so there are quite a few named characters that don't get to shine as much as others, but you can't help picking up on one of those characters and just loving them to death anyway. For me, that character is Ness. When you read the book, you'll understand. (Mr McPoutyPants is also a top tier character. That's not his actual name, but you will know who I mean immediately.)
Despite the large ensemble of names characters, J does a fantastic job of giving them their own identity (hehe), personality, and depth. Each character is unique and memorable in their own way. J also does a fantastic job incorporating queer and disabled representation in the book in a way that just makes sense.
The only flaw I can find with this book is that books two and three aren't out yet. I really enjoyed reading Warm-Blooded!
September 23, 2024
This book surprised me.
The beginning and the concept were interesting enough to get me hooked and it only got better from there. I’m truly invested in the characters now and what’s going to happen next.
The ending was surprising and also had some thing I saw coming. It’s set up the next book really well and I can’t wait to read it!
There are quite a few spelling mistakes about every 5 or so pages which, while it bothered me and pulled me out of the book a bit, I’m sure won’t bother others nearly as much. All in all a great read and I would recommend it if you’re interested in the concept of heroes vs villains, people with supernatural abilities, slow burn romance or just read the blurb and liked it like I did.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The beginning and the concept were interesting enough to get me hooked and it only got better from there. I’m truly invested in the characters now and what’s going to happen next.
The ending was surprising and also had some thing I saw coming. It’s set up the next book really well and I can’t wait to read it!
There are quite a few spelling mistakes about every 5 or so pages which, while it bothered me and pulled me out of the book a bit, I’m sure won’t bother others nearly as much. All in all a great read and I would recommend it if you’re interested in the concept of heroes vs villains, people with supernatural abilities, slow burn romance or just read the blurb and liked it like I did.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 16, 2024
This was such an engaging story! The characters felt genuine and alive and I honestly just want to hug them all and wrap them in fuzzy blankets so they feel safe. It was giving my hero if the world was queer-normative and the characters were all likable, and also in college. I appreciated the world building also, because it was paced out really well and didn't feel like an info-dump at any point. The powers were also really diverse and interesting! Really good pacing, I never felt bored. I'm already itching for book 2!
December 20, 2024
I went into this book hoping for another great superhero/villain story, sadly this one was not for me.
I couldn't get into the story and I didn't click with the main character. As much as this didn't work for me though I can see how others might like the book, there are some similarities with anime shows and the superhero trope will surely also pull readers of comics and graphic novels into picking this one up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I couldn't get into the story and I didn't click with the main character. As much as this didn't work for me though I can see how others might like the book, there are some similarities with anime shows and the superhero trope will surely also pull readers of comics and graphic novels into picking this one up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 20, 2025
When it books to books, even ARCs, I usually don’t read the summary of the book, I just go in blind and just pretty much go with the flow.
It was obviously an ARC read for me (I’m just a few months behind is all lmfao), but I did enjoy the book! I’m not much of a superhero person to begin with, but the story was good! The plot was easy to follow, the “world building” wasn’t that detailed and it was easy to follow, and the characters? Chef kiss.
They weren’t boring, they weren’t lazy, they actually had some depth to them and that always makes books easier to read in my personal opinion.
It was obviously an ARC read for me (I’m just a few months behind is all lmfao), but I did enjoy the book! I’m not much of a superhero person to begin with, but the story was good! The plot was easy to follow, the “world building” wasn’t that detailed and it was easy to follow, and the characters? Chef kiss.
They weren’t boring, they weren’t lazy, they actually had some depth to them and that always makes books easier to read in my personal opinion.
November 17, 2024
Review to come.
January 18, 2025
TLDR I really enjoyed this book but the slower development of the plot and understanding of the characters made it hard for me to read.
I LOVE the unique powers the characters have they don’t have just flight or strength but they are very unique with their abilities. But sometimes it makes it hard to remembers everyone’s powers.
It is very slow to build up the plot points. This made it so that I had a hard time coming back to the book when there is no clear antagonist or goal being worked toward. Once it got to that point that it was more clear though what the characters were working towards it was very fun and enjoyable to read.
It also took a really long time to get to a point that I really connected with and understood the characters, while I understand the reason why we don’t know much about them (it being a plot point) it does make it frustrating because my favorite part about a book is the characters and knowing more and more about them and this book is purposefully slow to build that. The first time most of the characters are introduced it’s all in the span of 8 pages and that which makes it hard to remember the more minor characters and knowing so little about them makes that worse. And I really wish that the main character wasn’t included in the characters we were left in the dark about that made certain moments lose their emotional impact.
I received an advanced reader copy but this is all my genuinely thoughts and opinions.
I LOVE the unique powers the characters have they don’t have just flight or strength but they are very unique with their abilities. But sometimes it makes it hard to remembers everyone’s powers.
It is very slow to build up the plot points. This made it so that I had a hard time coming back to the book when there is no clear antagonist or goal being worked toward. Once it got to that point that it was more clear though what the characters were working towards it was very fun and enjoyable to read.
It also took a really long time to get to a point that I really connected with and understood the characters, while I understand the reason why we don’t know much about them (it being a plot point) it does make it frustrating because my favorite part about a book is the characters and knowing more and more about them and this book is purposefully slow to build that. The first time most of the characters are introduced it’s all in the span of 8 pages and that which makes it hard to remember the more minor characters and knowing so little about them makes that worse. And I really wish that the main character wasn’t included in the characters we were left in the dark about that made certain moments lose their emotional impact.
I received an advanced reader copy but this is all my genuinely thoughts and opinions.
February 24, 2025
In the world of superheroes, I have primarily stayed within the comic format due to the visual nature of action scenes. But this book provides plenty of vivid imagery in the action scenes without them feeling overwhelming. More importantly, this book gives such good character feelings and development not otherwise found in many modern day comic volumes.
Set in the nearish future the setting allows for a grounded feel to the extraordinary powers the main cast holds. However, these powers aren’t what distinguishes these characters it’s their interpersonal relations that stand out and the development of them throughout the book. These relationships are to me the backbone of the story. Paired with the thoughtful worldbuilding and pressing plot, I will be waiting in anticipation for book two!
Set in the nearish future the setting allows for a grounded feel to the extraordinary powers the main cast holds. However, these powers aren’t what distinguishes these characters it’s their interpersonal relations that stand out and the development of them throughout the book. These relationships are to me the backbone of the story. Paired with the thoughtful worldbuilding and pressing plot, I will be waiting in anticipation for book two!
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