What do you think?
Rate this book
Absurdities
In a world where magical prowess is the only mark of strength, humans are treated as second-class citizens due to their inability to access magic. The Warlocks hold all seats of power and firmly control trade and resources. What little power humans have can be taken away at any time by their Warlock overlords, and there is nothing humans can do to fight back. Until now.
With her grandfather's research complete, Lady Grace Ravelin must prepare to sacrifice everything she has, including her life, for a slim chance to gain access to magic and make the world a better place for humans. She finds an unlikely ally in an Agent of Death. Their friendship deepens, and his unconditional support makes her question her upbringing and shakes the foundations of familial loyalty. As the stains of blood deepen on her hands, Grace must find the answer to one question: Is loyalty more important than happiness?
With her grandfather's research complete, Lady Grace Ravelin must prepare to sacrifice everything she has, including her life, for a slim chance to gain access to magic and make the world a better place for humans. She finds an unlikely ally in an Agent of Death. Their friendship deepens, and his unconditional support makes her question her upbringing and shakes the foundations of familial loyalty. As the stains of blood deepen on her hands, Grace must find the answer to one question: Is loyalty more important than happiness?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 31, 2024
4 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 4, 2025
I turned the last page with my heart pounding—I’m still reeling from that ending and already craving more!
From the moment Lady Grace Ravelin sets out to risk her life in a world ruled by Warlocks—and thus stacked entirely against her—Absurdities delivers a compelling and refreshingly original take on fantasy. This is a powerful debut novel that merges tense political intrigue, rich cultural references, and a deeply personal coming-of-age story in one enthralling package.
The setup is immediately striking: humans exist as second-class citizens without magic in a society where magical prowess is everything. The Warlocks grip every resource, manipulate trade, and hold all the power. While the opening quarter can feel somewhat slow as it establishes a vast cast of characters (including Grace’s grandfather, her brother, and an intriguing array of agents of death), the pace kicks into high gear once those foundations are set. If you enjoy multiple POVs, you’ll be pleased by how each viewpoint peels back another layer of the world’s politics, magic systems, and family dynamics.
Each character wrestles with loyalty, power, and identity in ways that feel intensely human—even when they’re not. Though some early human POV sections feel a bit distant at first, they quickly become riveting once the stakes become clear. The Agents of Death (particularly Anubis) add a perfect dash of dark humor and unpredictable energy. Even if you don’t immediately connect with every character, you’ll find yourself invested in seeing how their arcs converge in the brutal finale.
One of the most remarkable aspects is the inventive magic system and how it shapes the social hierarchy. The Warlocks’ dominance isn’t just a backdrop; it informs every interaction, intensifies every conflict, and underscores just how far Grace has to go to claim power of her own. On top of that, there’s a vivid sense of cultural depth, with rituals, customs, and references that make the setting feel genuinely alive.
Almost every early reviewer has pointed out how the ending veers into shocking territory—and they’re absolutely correct. Without spoiling anything, it concludes on a note that’s equal parts exciting, heartbreaking, and seemingly impossible to resolve. If you’re not fond of cliffhanger-like endings, brace yourself. But if you revel in the thrill of a gutsy finale that leaves room for more, you’ll be as eager for a sequel as the rest of us.
Pacing hiccups aside, Absurdities is an immensely impressive debut that proves its author isn’t afraid to take risks—both with world-building and narrative choices. It’s fresh, fierce, and layered, offering everything from political tension and social critique to heartfelt personal journeys. If you’re seeking a fantasy that isn’t afraid to break the mold (and maybe your heart), do yourself a favor and pick this one up. I’m giving it 5 stars for its ambitious storytelling and can’t wait to see where this universe heads next.
From the moment Lady Grace Ravelin sets out to risk her life in a world ruled by Warlocks—and thus stacked entirely against her—Absurdities delivers a compelling and refreshingly original take on fantasy. This is a powerful debut novel that merges tense political intrigue, rich cultural references, and a deeply personal coming-of-age story in one enthralling package.
The setup is immediately striking: humans exist as second-class citizens without magic in a society where magical prowess is everything. The Warlocks grip every resource, manipulate trade, and hold all the power. While the opening quarter can feel somewhat slow as it establishes a vast cast of characters (including Grace’s grandfather, her brother, and an intriguing array of agents of death), the pace kicks into high gear once those foundations are set. If you enjoy multiple POVs, you’ll be pleased by how each viewpoint peels back another layer of the world’s politics, magic systems, and family dynamics.
Each character wrestles with loyalty, power, and identity in ways that feel intensely human—even when they’re not. Though some early human POV sections feel a bit distant at first, they quickly become riveting once the stakes become clear. The Agents of Death (particularly Anubis) add a perfect dash of dark humor and unpredictable energy. Even if you don’t immediately connect with every character, you’ll find yourself invested in seeing how their arcs converge in the brutal finale.
One of the most remarkable aspects is the inventive magic system and how it shapes the social hierarchy. The Warlocks’ dominance isn’t just a backdrop; it informs every interaction, intensifies every conflict, and underscores just how far Grace has to go to claim power of her own. On top of that, there’s a vivid sense of cultural depth, with rituals, customs, and references that make the setting feel genuinely alive.
Almost every early reviewer has pointed out how the ending veers into shocking territory—and they’re absolutely correct. Without spoiling anything, it concludes on a note that’s equal parts exciting, heartbreaking, and seemingly impossible to resolve. If you’re not fond of cliffhanger-like endings, brace yourself. But if you revel in the thrill of a gutsy finale that leaves room for more, you’ll be as eager for a sequel as the rest of us.
Pacing hiccups aside, Absurdities is an immensely impressive debut that proves its author isn’t afraid to take risks—both with world-building and narrative choices. It’s fresh, fierce, and layered, offering everything from political tension and social critique to heartfelt personal journeys. If you’re seeking a fantasy that isn’t afraid to break the mold (and maybe your heart), do yourself a favor and pick this one up. I’m giving it 5 stars for its ambitious storytelling and can’t wait to see where this universe heads next.
December 20, 2024
.....what the fuck was that ending oh my god.
a very impressive debut fantasy novel. I've thoroughly enjoyed the multi pov aspect of that story, especially with how the family was portrayed with all their flaws. I admittedly expected an even more larger than life complex narrative, but dealing a coming of age story with such complexity isn't easy either.
perfect for jade city fans. the commentary about the patriarchy and how it effects, shapes and will be rebelled against was so good. i couldn't believe it ended when it did, I'm still in shock. my favs were undoubtedly all the agents of death. they were the much needed humour with their quirks in this story for me when it was dark but I also wish it was more dark with more exploration.
and we have to talk about the world building. i was very impressed. i could clearly see some references of culture, and on top of that, the world was very well imagined!!!
if you're looking for an interesting read with some amazing world building, multiple pov, characters i can't promise you'll love but surely find interesting, then this is definitely the one.
it's coming out on dec 31st but i believe the author is offering arcs for everyone interested! so if you're interested, I'd recommend seeing her bio or contacting her!
(my thoughts are all over the place as you can tell from my review. maybe I'll try to write a better review a few days later)
a very impressive debut fantasy novel. I've thoroughly enjoyed the multi pov aspect of that story, especially with how the family was portrayed with all their flaws. I admittedly expected an even more larger than life complex narrative, but dealing a coming of age story with such complexity isn't easy either.
perfect for jade city fans. the commentary about the patriarchy and how it effects, shapes and will be rebelled against was so good. i couldn't believe it ended when it did, I'm still in shock. my favs were undoubtedly all the agents of death. they were the much needed humour with their quirks in this story for me when it was dark but I also wish it was more dark with more exploration.
and we have to talk about the world building. i was very impressed. i could clearly see some references of culture, and on top of that, the world was very well imagined!!!
if you're looking for an interesting read with some amazing world building, multiple pov, characters i can't promise you'll love but surely find interesting, then this is definitely the one.
it's coming out on dec 31st but i believe the author is offering arcs for everyone interested! so if you're interested, I'd recommend seeing her bio or contacting her!
(my thoughts are all over the place as you can tell from my review. maybe I'll try to write a better review a few days later)
December 24, 2024
A slow start turned into a rapid and exciting end!
Absurdities wasn't anything quite like I've read before! It has a unique take on a magic system that plays into the creative world building. This story takes you on an adventure through multiple perspectives of very different personalities with all the characters with their own agendas.
It was an interesting read, as it delved into some cultural systems/customs that I don't typically read about. I enjoyed the author's creative handling in helping the reader understand this culture through the lens of multiple characters.
Specifically, I loved the concept of Death and her Agents! I found these to be the chapters I looked forward to the most.
I was glad to follow along with Grace as she learned to take control over her own life and destiny.
By the end, I was flying through, trying to determine how it was going to end, and I must say, I was not expecting where it went.
If you enjoy fresh takes on magic, multi-POV and coming of age stories, this is a great book for you!
Absurdities wasn't anything quite like I've read before! It has a unique take on a magic system that plays into the creative world building. This story takes you on an adventure through multiple perspectives of very different personalities with all the characters with their own agendas.
It was an interesting read, as it delved into some cultural systems/customs that I don't typically read about. I enjoyed the author's creative handling in helping the reader understand this culture through the lens of multiple characters.
Specifically, I loved the concept of Death and her Agents! I found these to be the chapters I looked forward to the most.
I was glad to follow along with Grace as she learned to take control over her own life and destiny.
By the end, I was flying through, trying to determine how it was going to end, and I must say, I was not expecting where it went.
If you enjoy fresh takes on magic, multi-POV and coming of age stories, this is a great book for you!
December 20, 2024
ok, the angel of deaths' povs are interesting but truthfully im not entirely fond of the early parts of the humans' povs (relar, liam, sisha, grace), from about 25% onwards tho, they finally start to be rly gripping. from that point on, this book got me stuck to the pages until the end.
i considered giving this a 4 star because there is some parts i found off. but it would be an injustice to give a book this good anything less than 5 stars.
the characters, the political tension, the magic, the way the story unfolds and ended–its overall truly an amazing read. i tried stalling it for as long as i could so it will last longer, but all stories end. and this one end brutally too. if the author read this, i'd love to read any books you may have written next, and i hope i may find these characters again and see where their stories take me <3
i considered giving this a 4 star because there is some parts i found off. but it would be an injustice to give a book this good anything less than 5 stars.
the characters, the political tension, the magic, the way the story unfolds and ended–its overall truly an amazing read. i tried stalling it for as long as i could so it will last longer, but all stories end. and this one end brutally too. if the author read this, i'd love to read any books you may have written next, and i hope i may find these characters again and see where their stories take me <3
December 26, 2024
Absurdities | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
THE ENDING?? 👀
This is literally it. I cannot get over that ending. I don't even know if I liked it or not. 😂
For me, the book started really slow, but after the characters and the world were introduced it picked up really fast. I would say it's a medium paced story with multiple POVs and a really interesting magic system.
There's a lot of focus on emotions and inner struggles of characters, mostly the FMC and her grandfather. It's a push and pull between doing what's expected of her vs her loyalty to her brother and honoring his sacrifice through her actions.
Personally, I didn't emotionally connect to any characters, it felt a bit flat or rushed when it came to what they were feeling (something happens and it quite quickly skips to another thing) BUT, it still didn't take away from the story, it keeps you invested until the end.
I tried to predict how it will all end and I failed miserably. 😂 I was really hoping for a happy ending, even if it's quite impossible to get one here.
I'm thankful for the ARC and I really hope we somehow get a 2nd book and fix all the mess from the last 10 pages, I want Anubis happy! 🥹
•
THE ENDING?? 👀
This is literally it. I cannot get over that ending. I don't even know if I liked it or not. 😂
For me, the book started really slow, but after the characters and the world were introduced it picked up really fast. I would say it's a medium paced story with multiple POVs and a really interesting magic system.
There's a lot of focus on emotions and inner struggles of characters, mostly the FMC and her grandfather. It's a push and pull between doing what's expected of her vs her loyalty to her brother and honoring his sacrifice through her actions.
Personally, I didn't emotionally connect to any characters, it felt a bit flat or rushed when it came to what they were feeling (something happens and it quite quickly skips to another thing) BUT, it still didn't take away from the story, it keeps you invested until the end.
I tried to predict how it will all end and I failed miserably. 😂 I was really hoping for a happy ending, even if it's quite impossible to get one here.
I'm thankful for the ARC and I really hope we somehow get a 2nd book and fix all the mess from the last 10 pages, I want Anubis happy! 🥹
December 18, 2024
In this novel, Anagha Baheti has transported us into a truly unique world with a fascinating system of magic. I found myself deeply immersed into the lore of this universe, appreciating the multiple perspectives we get to experience this story from. I found many of the characters to be lovable and thought that the depiction of Grace’s grief and anger was tragically beautiful. The ending was very bittersweet for me, but I am grateful that I got to experience the complex and mystical realm within these pages.
February 21, 2025
The absurdity is how much I love this story and the characters! It does take a little bit to truly get into the plot itself as there is a lot of dialogue and plans in place that don’t seem to make sense or fit together until about halfway through the story.
This is about much much more than just a girl becoming anything she was “trained” to be. This is about a woman taking command of her own life and not letting anyone stand in her way…. Not even Death.
Anubis has my soul and Grace has my heart. I received a copy directly from the author and all views are my own honest opinions
This is about much much more than just a girl becoming anything she was “trained” to be. This is about a woman taking command of her own life and not letting anyone stand in her way…. Not even Death.
Anubis has my soul and Grace has my heart. I received a copy directly from the author and all views are my own honest opinions
January 7, 2025
i rate this book 3.5 stars
it’s an interesting and original debut, which manages to feel both simple and complex at the same time.
the beginning lacks some exposition and i felt that the text in general could have had more descriptions to feel fuller, but on the other hand it doesn’t need it, because you get a clear understanding of who the characters are, and why, as well as a pretty good idea of the culture and society in this universe.
the plot is immediately intriguing and i really enjoyed following the different povs offered. the chapters are short and easily digestible which made it a quick read. i also tried and failed to guess at the ending, which i think works well both if this is a standalone, or as the first in a series.
i would have liked more text, both for explanations so that i’d have a better understanding of the universe, and descriptions and thoughts to feel more connected to the characters. that said, the text we do have is well written and gives enough context for it not to feel like a first draft.
i enjoyed it and i wouldn’t mind seeing more stories from this universe!
it’s an interesting and original debut, which manages to feel both simple and complex at the same time.
the beginning lacks some exposition and i felt that the text in general could have had more descriptions to feel fuller, but on the other hand it doesn’t need it, because you get a clear understanding of who the characters are, and why, as well as a pretty good idea of the culture and society in this universe.
the plot is immediately intriguing and i really enjoyed following the different povs offered. the chapters are short and easily digestible which made it a quick read. i also tried and failed to guess at the ending, which i think works well both if this is a standalone, or as the first in a series.
i would have liked more text, both for explanations so that i’d have a better understanding of the universe, and descriptions and thoughts to feel more connected to the characters. that said, the text we do have is well written and gives enough context for it not to feel like a first draft.
i enjoyed it and i wouldn’t mind seeing more stories from this universe!
December 31, 2024
Thank you to Anagha Baheti for providing me with the ARC copy of this book!
My exact rating of this book was a 1.6, but I rounded up for the sake of Goodreads not allowing half stars.
As many other reviewers mentioned, the first 25% of the book was extremely slow. This made it very difficult to get into and continue reading, as the beginning is the most important part of the story to captivate a reader. Because of this, connecting with the characters proved challenging. Without the blurb, I wouldn’t have known who the main character/protagonist of the book actually was until about a third of the way through. As the plot picked up, the writing improved as well, but unfortunately I was no longer invested into the story.
On the other hand, I did enjoy the agent of death’s POVs. I thought their plot lines and stories were fascinating and I found myself yearning to learn more about them.
I wish all the best to the author and congratulate her on her debut! Keep writing and improving your craft!
My exact rating of this book was a 1.6, but I rounded up for the sake of Goodreads not allowing half stars.
As many other reviewers mentioned, the first 25% of the book was extremely slow. This made it very difficult to get into and continue reading, as the beginning is the most important part of the story to captivate a reader. Because of this, connecting with the characters proved challenging. Without the blurb, I wouldn’t have known who the main character/protagonist of the book actually was until about a third of the way through. As the plot picked up, the writing improved as well, but unfortunately I was no longer invested into the story.
On the other hand, I did enjoy the agent of death’s POVs. I thought their plot lines and stories were fascinating and I found myself yearning to learn more about them.
I wish all the best to the author and congratulate her on her debut! Keep writing and improving your craft!
January 1, 2025
Loved this book!
Absurdities is a fantastic debut that masterfully creates a high fantasy world filled with unique customs, cultures, and sentiments rarely explored in the genre. It’s a fresh, imaginative take on fantasy that stands apart from traditional tropes.
Why you should read this book:
+Perfect for readers who crave delightful fantasy but don’t want the time commitment of a sprawling multi-book series.
+Features a fast-paced plot with little downtime;ideal if you’re not into slow burns.
+Introduces fascinating, unconventional characters beyond the usual elves, dwarves, wizards, and dragons.
Why you might hold off:
-The ending is impactful but leaves you longing for much more. If cliffhanger-style conclusions aren’t your thing, it might be worth waiting for a sequel (which I am sincerely hoping the author announces soon!).
This debut isn’t without its imperfections—some pacing issues and chapters dedicated to characters with minimal impact—but these are minor quibbles compared to the creativity and depth on display. Baheti’s world is vivid, her magic system intriguing, and her characters unforgettable (Anubis and Agents of Death - my favorites)
All in all, Absurdities is a brilliant start to what promises to be an exciting career. I can’t wait to read more from this world and this author!
Absurdities is a fantastic debut that masterfully creates a high fantasy world filled with unique customs, cultures, and sentiments rarely explored in the genre. It’s a fresh, imaginative take on fantasy that stands apart from traditional tropes.
Why you should read this book:
+Perfect for readers who crave delightful fantasy but don’t want the time commitment of a sprawling multi-book series.
+Features a fast-paced plot with little downtime;ideal if you’re not into slow burns.
+Introduces fascinating, unconventional characters beyond the usual elves, dwarves, wizards, and dragons.
Why you might hold off:
-The ending is impactful but leaves you longing for much more. If cliffhanger-style conclusions aren’t your thing, it might be worth waiting for a sequel (which I am sincerely hoping the author announces soon!).
This debut isn’t without its imperfections—some pacing issues and chapters dedicated to characters with minimal impact—but these are minor quibbles compared to the creativity and depth on display. Baheti’s world is vivid, her magic system intriguing, and her characters unforgettable (Anubis and Agents of Death - my favorites)
All in all, Absurdities is a brilliant start to what promises to be an exciting career. I can’t wait to read more from this world and this author!
January 1, 2025
Impressive debut novel from Anagha Baheti. I received an ARC of this book.
The book has a slow start and a rapid finish, but in between the story takes us through a beautiful magical world with aspirations of different humans and agents of death who all are connected by a common purpose of being noticed and making a name for themselves. You can’t put the book down in the middle.
The arc of Grace was gripping, but this seemed to have resulted in a rushed end for the book which left a few characters arcs unfinished and a lot of questions. What had the potential to be a great series ended in a single book.
The author has a lot of potential and it’s a gripping read. Looking forward to her future books.
The book has a slow start and a rapid finish, but in between the story takes us through a beautiful magical world with aspirations of different humans and agents of death who all are connected by a common purpose of being noticed and making a name for themselves. You can’t put the book down in the middle.
The arc of Grace was gripping, but this seemed to have resulted in a rushed end for the book which left a few characters arcs unfinished and a lot of questions. What had the potential to be a great series ended in a single book.
The author has a lot of potential and it’s a gripping read. Looking forward to her future books.
January 28, 2025
“Absurdities,” by Anagha Baheti, is a New Adult fantasy set in a realm in which those with magical abilities are valued and have power over humans, who are looked down upon and forced to wear bells upon their collars. There are Angels of Death, who collect lost souls in order to keep them from mischief, and Lord Ravelin disowns his incompetent and irresponsible son, making his young grandson his heir. When an experimental drug is “ready” (though not tested) that might allow humans to have the power of magic, he allows his own granddaughter and grandson, twins Grace and Liam, to be guinea pigs…with disastrous results. This is an engaging tale of magic, duty, and sacrifice; a fine debut offering!
January 4, 2025
I flew through Absurdities in two days, and my heart is still racing from that jaw-dropping ending. Grace's journey felt both inspiring and heartbreaking as she fought against the Warlocks’ iron rule. If you love bold magic, tense politics, and characters who grab your heart, you need to read this book right now!
January 5, 2025
The way the pace picks up 40% into the book is worth the wait. Amazing second half!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews