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The Sound of the Supernova
The Nova were meant to heal the sick.
They were never meant to change what people become.
For generations, the Nova were seen as salvation, a force that erased sickness and eased suffering. But when their power begins to reshape those who touch them, survival stops being a choice and transformation is inevitable.
Jonah has already lost everything that mattered to him. Revenge is the only thing that keeps him moving, driving him towards answers that would give his grief meaning. But as oppression tightens its grip and the truth behind the Nova begins to surface, Jonah is faced with a decision he cannot outrun.
He can cling to his anger and let the world burn.
Or he can give up the last of his humanity to protect people he has no obligation to save.
What begins as a search for answers spirals into rebellion, legacy, and a kind of power that cannot be controlled. Each transformation carries a cost. Each use of the Nova pushes Jonah further from the person he once was, and closer to something he may not be able to return from.
This is not a story about victory.
It is about survival.
About choosing who you become when the choice is taken from you.
The Sound of the Supernova is a dark, emotionally driven fantasy about grief, power, and the price of refusing to kneel, perfect for readers who enjoy morally complex stories in the vein of Leigh Bardugo, Madeline Miller, and V. E. Schwab, where saving the world means losing yourself.
They were never meant to change what people become.
For generations, the Nova were seen as salvation, a force that erased sickness and eased suffering. But when their power begins to reshape those who touch them, survival stops being a choice and transformation is inevitable.
Jonah has already lost everything that mattered to him. Revenge is the only thing that keeps him moving, driving him towards answers that would give his grief meaning. But as oppression tightens its grip and the truth behind the Nova begins to surface, Jonah is faced with a decision he cannot outrun.
He can cling to his anger and let the world burn.
Or he can give up the last of his humanity to protect people he has no obligation to save.
What begins as a search for answers spirals into rebellion, legacy, and a kind of power that cannot be controlled. Each transformation carries a cost. Each use of the Nova pushes Jonah further from the person he once was, and closer to something he may not be able to return from.
This is not a story about victory.
It is about survival.
About choosing who you become when the choice is taken from you.
The Sound of the Supernova is a dark, emotionally driven fantasy about grief, power, and the price of refusing to kneel, perfect for readers who enjoy morally complex stories in the vein of Leigh Bardugo, Madeline Miller, and V. E. Schwab, where saving the world means losing yourself.
472 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2025
5 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 16, 2025
Icarus flew into a Space Heist
This will appeal to fantasy lovers of all kinds! It's richly written with beautiful imagery as one of the mc's becomes aware of his reincarnation. In this world, people can transform into different beasts. The mmc and his best friend go on a space heist journey of nonstop action. The bird transformation scenes are a visual spectacle as well as an examination of the transformation process on the internal level. One thing that I really like that the inner world of the characters and all the tension and emotional pain they experience is well described and fleshed out. I think this Multi_POV will appeal to many fantasy fans because it includes elements of several subgenres within fantasy and sci fi.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to #netgalley for the arc! Publish date expected 7/15
This will appeal to fantasy lovers of all kinds! It's richly written with beautiful imagery as one of the mc's becomes aware of his reincarnation. In this world, people can transform into different beasts. The mmc and his best friend go on a space heist journey of nonstop action. The bird transformation scenes are a visual spectacle as well as an examination of the transformation process on the internal level. One thing that I really like that the inner world of the characters and all the tension and emotional pain they experience is well described and fleshed out. I think this Multi_POV will appeal to many fantasy fans because it includes elements of several subgenres within fantasy and sci fi.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to #netgalley for the arc! Publish date expected 7/15
July 3, 2025
4.5 🌟
This book is set in a place where humans transform into beasts. Throughout this book, we go on a journey with Jonah to uncover truths about this world, and his past. This is a story about loss, fear, and betrayal, but also resilience, and survival.
For the first few chapters of this book I struggled with grasping what was going on, but as I got further into the story, I understood this world better- and therefore enjoyed it a lot more!
Edit July 3rd, 2025: The author made some changes after reading the reviews, and when I revisited the book it certainly made a big improvement in clarity and understanding of the story! I am grateful these changes were made!
In my opinion the strongest part of this book was the incredible atmosphere the author created; the writing style was vivid, and descriptive, allowing for the reader to fully immerse into this world. The way emotions were portrayed in this book was outstanding.
If you like fantasy books that are character driven, and if you like going on an emotional journey, where the author doesn’t shy away from painful realities- loss, betrayal, and fear; I’d recommend!
Thank you NetGalley and Books go Social for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
This book is set in a place where humans transform into beasts. Throughout this book, we go on a journey with Jonah to uncover truths about this world, and his past. This is a story about loss, fear, and betrayal, but also resilience, and survival.
For the first few chapters of this book I struggled with grasping what was going on, but as I got further into the story, I understood this world better- and therefore enjoyed it a lot more!
Edit July 3rd, 2025: The author made some changes after reading the reviews, and when I revisited the book it certainly made a big improvement in clarity and understanding of the story! I am grateful these changes were made!
In my opinion the strongest part of this book was the incredible atmosphere the author created; the writing style was vivid, and descriptive, allowing for the reader to fully immerse into this world. The way emotions were portrayed in this book was outstanding.
If you like fantasy books that are character driven, and if you like going on an emotional journey, where the author doesn’t shy away from painful realities- loss, betrayal, and fear; I’d recommend!
Thank you NetGalley and Books go Social for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
July 17, 2025
I received this book as an ARC from the lovely Jordan Butler himself and I would like to take this time to thank him for giving me such a wonderful opportunity!
Do i recommend this book? Absolutely! Want to know what’s even better? The Sound Of Supernova is also free to read if you are a kindle unlimited user but also has its own paperback available on Amazon.
Jordan Butler has become somewhat of a good friend to me over this ARC process but I am NEVER biased with my books. Everyone needs to give this book a go at least once in their lives. I will definitely be rereading this and I cannot wait to consume more of Jordan Butler’s work in the future.
Keep being amazing and keep being you Jordan!!
Lots of Love Moomin Reads On TikTok! 🧡
Do i recommend this book? Absolutely! Want to know what’s even better? The Sound Of Supernova is also free to read if you are a kindle unlimited user but also has its own paperback available on Amazon.
Jordan Butler has become somewhat of a good friend to me over this ARC process but I am NEVER biased with my books. Everyone needs to give this book a go at least once in their lives. I will definitely be rereading this and I cannot wait to consume more of Jordan Butler’s work in the future.
Keep being amazing and keep being you Jordan!!
Lots of Love Moomin Reads On TikTok! 🧡
January 18, 2026
I’m in awe that this is the authors debut novel. The story unfolds with twists and turns that kept me fully engaged, never quite letting me get comfortable in my assumptions. This is a beautifully crafted fantasy that blends poetic writing, emotional darkness, and compelling storytelling into something that feels both intimate and expansive. If you enjoy immersive fantasy with depth, atmosphere, and an ending that hits hard and brutally honest, this one is absolutely worth your time. I am looking forward to reading what Butler writes next.
December 29, 2025
loved every second, the story flows beautifully and the character development is fantastic. a really enjoyable read that I'll be recommending to all of my friends
January 12, 2026
Three childhood friends seek revenge and embark on an emotional journey to right the wrongs their homeland has suffered whilst igniting dormant magic within themselves.
This book had some unique and interesting magic in the form of full and partial animal shapeshifting which I really enjoyed reading. The multiple POVs kept you interested and helped the pace of the book. I felt there was strong character development throughout and excellent world building. I’d love to know more about Rue’s backstory in book 2!
Thanks so much to Jordan Butler who sent me a free copy of this book to review.
Support indie authors!
This book had some unique and interesting magic in the form of full and partial animal shapeshifting which I really enjoyed reading. The multiple POVs kept you interested and helped the pace of the book. I felt there was strong character development throughout and excellent world building. I’d love to know more about Rue’s backstory in book 2!
Thanks so much to Jordan Butler who sent me a free copy of this book to review.
Support indie authors!
September 27, 2025
Wow wow wow. I totally enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the next book. The Drop and the nova was amazing and Jonah character was brilliant. I totally did not see what was coming. Like I said I cannot wait to read the next one. Would highly recommend to anyone who likes adventure and fantasy
July 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Firstly, thank you to the author for reaching out and kindly gifting me an early copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book (more than i thought). It's not usually something i would pick up and read but i'm really glad i did.
The book follows Jonah who is uncovering truths about his world and his past. His journey is everything but boring - it's a story where survival is never 100%. He is a strong character and it was really amazing reading how his character develops throughout the book.
The author had no problem putting readers through it!!! I felt all the emotions whilst reading. It was emotional but enpowering too! The characters go through loss, betrayal and lies but also they show such strength and power through it. There was no issue with the authors writting in this book - the emotions were powerful. When reading it, you could really feel the characters feelings and i LOVED that.
If you like fantasy books, found family, emotionally charged books and a book that will break you apart by the end? This is for you!
Firstly, thank you to the author for reaching out and kindly gifting me an early copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book (more than i thought). It's not usually something i would pick up and read but i'm really glad i did.
The book follows Jonah who is uncovering truths about his world and his past. His journey is everything but boring - it's a story where survival is never 100%. He is a strong character and it was really amazing reading how his character develops throughout the book.
The author had no problem putting readers through it!!! I felt all the emotions whilst reading. It was emotional but enpowering too! The characters go through loss, betrayal and lies but also they show such strength and power through it. There was no issue with the authors writting in this book - the emotions were powerful. When reading it, you could really feel the characters feelings and i LOVED that.
If you like fantasy books, found family, emotionally charged books and a book that will break you apart by the end? This is for you!
January 1, 2026
4.5 ⭐️Such a refreshing and unique fantasy book where humans can transform into animals. We follow 3 characters but have a main POV of Jonah.
Jonah has to relearn everything about life his life as he knew it. And he soon comes to realise theres much more sinister things happening beyond his island, and things aren’t as they seem. Jordan kindly reached out to send me this book in exchange for an honest review and I’m so glad he did. This was something different for me and it really surprised me.
This had everything I like in a book: high stakes, multi POV, action packed, amazing character development, and deadly missions.
Pre warning, this is NOT a happy ending kinda book, so be prepared and there’s no romance. But I don’t feel the plot needed either of this as it was executed well.
Jonah has to relearn everything about life his life as he knew it. And he soon comes to realise theres much more sinister things happening beyond his island, and things aren’t as they seem. Jordan kindly reached out to send me this book in exchange for an honest review and I’m so glad he did. This was something different for me and it really surprised me.
This had everything I like in a book: high stakes, multi POV, action packed, amazing character development, and deadly missions.
Pre warning, this is NOT a happy ending kinda book, so be prepared and there’s no romance. But I don’t feel the plot needed either of this as it was executed well.
December 20, 2025
Great fantasy writing and storytelling a fantastic story very detailed and fun read
July 2, 2025
Disclaimer: I was provided an early copy of the book to provide an honest review.
Release date expected July 4, 2025.
*There author begins with notifying the reader of several trigger warnings that are within the storyline and encourages the reader to be mindful and take care of themselves while reading.*
The author's writing is colorfully descriptive and rhythmic. It is vivid and immersive so that you can envision yourself in the moment—hearing the sounds, smelling the scents, seeing the environment and feeling the atmosphere.
At first, I found the story somewhat confusing because it wasn’t immediately clear which character was narrating. This uncertainty made it difficult to follow the plot, and I had to go back and reread a few pages to make sense of what was happening. However, once I recognized the narrative pattern and understood which character was providing the perspective, the story became much easier to follow. Identifying the narrator helped me better appreciate the structure and depth of the story.
*edit 7/2/2025…The author read my honest review and made edits to the story based on my feedback to help eliminate any confusion. The changes definitely improved the clarity. I am incredibly grateful to know my review was taken into consideration.
The story plunges the reader into a whirlwind of emotions - pain, loss, fear, betrayal, and relentless action. This is not just a journey through chaos, but a powerful exploration of the spirit , driven by the will to survive. In a world where survival is never guaranteed, you learn that resilience is not about being unafraid, it’s about moving forward and that sometimes, the one who gives everything doesn’t get to see the results. The ending of the book broke me and will definitely stay with me for awhile.
Release date expected July 4, 2025.
*There author begins with notifying the reader of several trigger warnings that are within the storyline and encourages the reader to be mindful and take care of themselves while reading.*
The author's writing is colorfully descriptive and rhythmic. It is vivid and immersive so that you can envision yourself in the moment—hearing the sounds, smelling the scents, seeing the environment and feeling the atmosphere.
At first, I found the story somewhat confusing because it wasn’t immediately clear which character was narrating. This uncertainty made it difficult to follow the plot, and I had to go back and reread a few pages to make sense of what was happening. However, once I recognized the narrative pattern and understood which character was providing the perspective, the story became much easier to follow. Identifying the narrator helped me better appreciate the structure and depth of the story.
*edit 7/2/2025…The author read my honest review and made edits to the story based on my feedback to help eliminate any confusion. The changes definitely improved the clarity. I am incredibly grateful to know my review was taken into consideration.
The story plunges the reader into a whirlwind of emotions - pain, loss, fear, betrayal, and relentless action. This is not just a journey through chaos, but a powerful exploration of the spirit , driven by the will to survive. In a world where survival is never guaranteed, you learn that resilience is not about being unafraid, it’s about moving forward and that sometimes, the one who gives everything doesn’t get to see the results. The ending of the book broke me and will definitely stay with me for awhile.
July 4, 2025
I highly recommend this book! It’s the type of book you can’t put away! You want to know more about the characters, their journey, their hope and despair. Their story takes you on a mission through a world that needs to be saved. The writer did a great job in creating the kind of fantasy world your mind gets stuck in. I’m a big fan!
August 28, 2025
“The Sound of the Supernova” succeeds as a gripping fantasy story and a thoughtful examination of the cost of survival. While not without minor flaws, the novel demonstrates Butler’s considerable promise as a writer. This is a very solid debut that suggests Butler has the talent and vision to become a significant voice in self-publishing. For fans of V. E. Schwab’s fantasy imagination or world-rich storytelling like Ursula K. Le Guin’s works, the novel offers plenty of rewards for readers while remaining approachable for anyone just seeking an immersive escape.
September 5, 2025
Jonah is content to remain on his island and supplying the King with the herbs they grow as weeds in exchange for Novas, tablets that keep them healthy, but a shock event sends him and his two friends into a rebellion and a world he could have never imagined before.
There is mention in other reviews of edits so I can't be sure that the version of the book that I read as an ARC is the current version. That being said, I found this book very hard to follow. The POV is not only written in first person but it changes without warning between paragraphs, not just between chapters. I would be reading as a male character, not notice the change, and the narrative would be dicussing the strict role of the character's future as a wife and mother. This made events difficult to follow, especially when the group spilt up and I was having issues knowing what was happening when because of this.
As far as characters go, due to the difficulties in the POV changes, they all read very similar with similar narrative voices. None of the side characters really stood out to me as noteable so I wasn't especially impacted by their deaths despite the aim of the story to get that emotion across. The style of writing was also disjointed as it feels more like a YA coming of age story with scenes of extreme violence. The descriptions are excellent and I appreciated the trio being split into two normal animals and one supernatural, but the inclusion of a Thunderbird, a Kitsune, and what I think is a Chimera left me geographically confused.
[2.6 cawpile score]
There is mention in other reviews of edits so I can't be sure that the version of the book that I read as an ARC is the current version. That being said, I found this book very hard to follow. The POV is not only written in first person but it changes without warning between paragraphs, not just between chapters. I would be reading as a male character, not notice the change, and the narrative would be dicussing the strict role of the character's future as a wife and mother. This made events difficult to follow, especially when the group spilt up and I was having issues knowing what was happening when because of this.
As far as characters go, due to the difficulties in the POV changes, they all read very similar with similar narrative voices. None of the side characters really stood out to me as noteable so I wasn't especially impacted by their deaths despite the aim of the story to get that emotion across. The style of writing was also disjointed as it feels more like a YA coming of age story with scenes of extreme violence. The descriptions are excellent and I appreciated the trio being split into two normal animals and one supernatural, but the inclusion of a Thunderbird, a Kitsune, and what I think is a Chimera left me geographically confused.
[2.6 cawpile score]
October 26, 2025
You would not know that it's a debut. The writing is fantastic and the world building is incredible. I had no idea where the book was going to end(and the one theory I had was wrong)
Jonah, Luca and Amaya live a fun and peaceful life until the people they loved are ripped away from them. Seeking revenge and answers they find a whole other world; a land where people can transform into beasts. Far from the peaceful land they once knew, this world treats people horrifically... how far are these three willing to go for revenge? for justice? to help strangers?
I loved seeing how different their world was from the one they were thrown into. I adored the variety of creatures that were shifted into, completely different from any I've read before. The transformations were written so well it was like you could do it yourself! (if only 🤣)
I liked the moral side where it was like they could bury their heads in the sand and go back to not knowing anything and their own land... or choose to fight to help free people they don't know.
The one downside was the multiple POVs. I like multiple POVs but this one was done a bit different, which just didn't work for me. Most of the time Jonah was narrating but sometimes it switched to Luca or Amaya. It was only every now and again, not consistent, so it just felt a bit random to me.
Overall it was a thoroughly enjoyable read and I think this author is one to watch. I'm looking forward to book 2. If you like fantasy, world building, shifters or to support an indie author - check this one out.
Jonah, Luca and Amaya live a fun and peaceful life until the people they loved are ripped away from them. Seeking revenge and answers they find a whole other world; a land where people can transform into beasts. Far from the peaceful land they once knew, this world treats people horrifically... how far are these three willing to go for revenge? for justice? to help strangers?
I loved seeing how different their world was from the one they were thrown into. I adored the variety of creatures that were shifted into, completely different from any I've read before. The transformations were written so well it was like you could do it yourself! (if only 🤣)
I liked the moral side where it was like they could bury their heads in the sand and go back to not knowing anything and their own land... or choose to fight to help free people they don't know.
The one downside was the multiple POVs. I like multiple POVs but this one was done a bit different, which just didn't work for me. Most of the time Jonah was narrating but sometimes it switched to Luca or Amaya. It was only every now and again, not consistent, so it just felt a bit random to me.
Overall it was a thoroughly enjoyable read and I think this author is one to watch. I'm looking forward to book 2. If you like fantasy, world building, shifters or to support an indie author - check this one out.
August 16, 2025
4.5⭐️
Where do I even start with my review? This was such a great fantasy book where humans can change into animals. It also has elements of loss, grief, fear, survival, change and growth.
This book was action packed and the storylines were so well written. You really get a good background story and why things were handled the way they did.
And just when you think it’ll go one way, it completely goes the other way and has you SCHOCKED!
I loved it and I’m so glad Jordan reached out and chose us for this ARC.
Follow Books and Buckles on Instagram and TikTok for more reviews and bookish content https://linktr.ee/books.and.buckles
Where do I even start with my review? This was such a great fantasy book where humans can change into animals. It also has elements of loss, grief, fear, survival, change and growth.
This book was action packed and the storylines were so well written. You really get a good background story and why things were handled the way they did.
And just when you think it’ll go one way, it completely goes the other way and has you SCHOCKED!
I loved it and I’m so glad Jordan reached out and chose us for this ARC.
Follow Books and Buckles on Instagram and TikTok for more reviews and bookish content https://linktr.ee/books.and.buckles
September 10, 2025
This was a very good book one of the only books that i read all in one day! the writing style was so immersive which mad it a great time. some termanology and bits i got a little lost but overall a stunning book
January 29, 2026
Thank you very much to the author for sending me this work and allowing me the pleasure to engage with emerging indie fantasy.
The premise of this book is very interesting - the Nova (or Supernova) are a mysterious spherical substance that allow those who consume it to exist free from ailments, requiring only a little support from traditional foods. Our MCs come from a remote and traditional island, with limited knowledge and encounters with the outside world. When the MCs are betrayed and their village ravaged, they undertake a journey to the mainland, where they uncover a grim world and learn that the Supernova has an effect they didn’t know of - those who consume it have the potential to shift between human and animal forms.
This novel would be enjoyed by indie fantasy lovers who are looking for a unique, fast-paced, multi-character POV adventure that doesn’t fit within your typical fantasy narrative format.
With all that being said, I do have some criticism of this book:
I would have loved to have experienced this in an Alpha or Beta reading scenario, as I really think this author has a lot of potential and further revision could have really moulded this into something fantastic.
Some of the punctuation and sentence structure can as very clunky, in my opinion. At times, it can make the exposition a little hard to follow. It seems that some of the punctuation used are the result of following Microsoft Word’s recommendations for changes, which are not always the most appropriate choice. Though, this may just be a matter of style.
The book is very fast paced. Everything seems to transpire very rapidly, even within chapters, and I find it leaves little time to truly sit with a character as they absorb information and to feel what they are feeling. I would have liked to have got to know the characters more through their insights and responses to events (especially their response to their GRIEF) throughout the story, but each potential point of tension seems to be passed over very quickly and with very little resistance from any of the MCs. Every MC is seemingly very accomodating to whatever happens around them. Nothing seems to emotionally impact them too much - at least, that’s how it comes across because we don’t linger with anything long enough to feel the emotional impact the author likely intends.
Jonah is by far the most fleshed-out and interesting character, and is the strongest candidate for MC. I think if this book were a single POV, centred on Jonah, I may have enjoyed it a bit more. (Which is strange for me, ever the lover of multi-POV). There are some short sections of the book that are extremely well written, but they’re buried amongst washes of prose that would benefit from more developmental edits. Every scene blends, so it’s hard for anything to standout. However, the scenes which are incredibly well written help me to see a great amount of potential in this author and his ideas.
Due to the fast pacing of the story, a single POV could have helped to rectify some of the perceived deficiencies I have previously identified and allowed for deeper character work that allows the reader to build a strong connection. There is also a distinct lack of narrative voice, each of the characters read exactly the same narratively, so if you don’t pay extreme attention to the name of the narrator for each section, you can go entire pages without realising that you’re reading as Luca instead of Jonah (for example) until some random context or plot point reminds you of it!
For a group of people who have JUST been MASSIVELY deceived and betrayed, our MCs are perhaps far too trusting of Liberio. This built a strange sense of anticipation within me while reading, because I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and for our MCs to be thrust into another unfortunate situation. Also, who is helping their homeland rebuild after the destruction that was wrought on them? I understand that the remaining villagers told them to go to the mainland, but I cannot wrap my head around Luca - who is now their leader and figurehead, not to mention the strongest and most physically competent person on the island - leaving his home behind to help themselves so he can go cavorting on the mainland with Jonah because Jonah wants to know who is mommy is. Luca is a good friend, but his priorities seem a little skewed and he generally comes across as a bit of a “Himbo”.
Amaya is…a nice lady. That’s all I have to say about her. Usually, she just seems to be there to have a main lady character and to be nice. I would have liked to have seen a bit more depth from the FMC. In terms of female characters, Rue and Paz were far more interesting. Amaya could not be there at all and hardly anything would change.
None of the deaths in this story impacted me - there are a LOT of characters, we don’t get to spend enough time with any of them to begin to care about their fates.
Even with all this being said, I do think this author has great ideas and shows a lot of promise. None of the things I have called out are things that cannot be improved through more revisions, developmental editing, and alpha/beta reading in future works. For a debut, I do think this shows good promise and I hope the author continues to work hard to refine his skills. I am sure that one day he will be able to deliver something that is truly incredible. Thank you again to Jordan Butler for providing me with a copy to review!
The premise of this book is very interesting - the Nova (or Supernova) are a mysterious spherical substance that allow those who consume it to exist free from ailments, requiring only a little support from traditional foods. Our MCs come from a remote and traditional island, with limited knowledge and encounters with the outside world. When the MCs are betrayed and their village ravaged, they undertake a journey to the mainland, where they uncover a grim world and learn that the Supernova has an effect they didn’t know of - those who consume it have the potential to shift between human and animal forms.
This novel would be enjoyed by indie fantasy lovers who are looking for a unique, fast-paced, multi-character POV adventure that doesn’t fit within your typical fantasy narrative format.
With all that being said, I do have some criticism of this book:
I would have loved to have experienced this in an Alpha or Beta reading scenario, as I really think this author has a lot of potential and further revision could have really moulded this into something fantastic.
Some of the punctuation and sentence structure can as very clunky, in my opinion. At times, it can make the exposition a little hard to follow. It seems that some of the punctuation used are the result of following Microsoft Word’s recommendations for changes, which are not always the most appropriate choice. Though, this may just be a matter of style.
The book is very fast paced. Everything seems to transpire very rapidly, even within chapters, and I find it leaves little time to truly sit with a character as they absorb information and to feel what they are feeling. I would have liked to have got to know the characters more through their insights and responses to events (especially their response to their GRIEF) throughout the story, but each potential point of tension seems to be passed over very quickly and with very little resistance from any of the MCs. Every MC is seemingly very accomodating to whatever happens around them. Nothing seems to emotionally impact them too much - at least, that’s how it comes across because we don’t linger with anything long enough to feel the emotional impact the author likely intends.
Jonah is by far the most fleshed-out and interesting character, and is the strongest candidate for MC. I think if this book were a single POV, centred on Jonah, I may have enjoyed it a bit more. (Which is strange for me, ever the lover of multi-POV). There are some short sections of the book that are extremely well written, but they’re buried amongst washes of prose that would benefit from more developmental edits. Every scene blends, so it’s hard for anything to standout. However, the scenes which are incredibly well written help me to see a great amount of potential in this author and his ideas.
Due to the fast pacing of the story, a single POV could have helped to rectify some of the perceived deficiencies I have previously identified and allowed for deeper character work that allows the reader to build a strong connection. There is also a distinct lack of narrative voice, each of the characters read exactly the same narratively, so if you don’t pay extreme attention to the name of the narrator for each section, you can go entire pages without realising that you’re reading as Luca instead of Jonah (for example) until some random context or plot point reminds you of it!
For a group of people who have JUST been MASSIVELY deceived and betrayed, our MCs are perhaps far too trusting of Liberio. This built a strange sense of anticipation within me while reading, because I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and for our MCs to be thrust into another unfortunate situation. Also, who is helping their homeland rebuild after the destruction that was wrought on them? I understand that the remaining villagers told them to go to the mainland, but I cannot wrap my head around Luca - who is now their leader and figurehead, not to mention the strongest and most physically competent person on the island - leaving his home behind to help themselves so he can go cavorting on the mainland with Jonah because Jonah wants to know who is mommy is. Luca is a good friend, but his priorities seem a little skewed and he generally comes across as a bit of a “Himbo”.
Amaya is…a nice lady. That’s all I have to say about her. Usually, she just seems to be there to have a main lady character and to be nice. I would have liked to have seen a bit more depth from the FMC. In terms of female characters, Rue and Paz were far more interesting. Amaya could not be there at all and hardly anything would change.
None of the deaths in this story impacted me - there are a LOT of characters, we don’t get to spend enough time with any of them to begin to care about their fates.
Even with all this being said, I do think this author has great ideas and shows a lot of promise. None of the things I have called out are things that cannot be improved through more revisions, developmental editing, and alpha/beta reading in future works. For a debut, I do think this shows good promise and I hope the author continues to work hard to refine his skills. I am sure that one day he will be able to deliver something that is truly incredible. Thank you again to Jordan Butler for providing me with a copy to review!
July 15, 2025
Do you like stories that aren’t afraid to put you through a ringer of emotions? Fear, betrayal, hidden secrets, pain? Please read The Sound Of The Supernova and feel pain with me.
The Sound of The Supernova is a really refreshing sci-fi fantasy that covers ALL the bases and gives the feeling of nostalgic space operas with its pacing and alien-esque landscapes.
There is hidden powers, mythological shifters, high stakes, rebellious royalty and the villains really are villains. Alongside the perilous journeys and fast pacing, is a beautifully real story of human emotion, existence and resilience.
Humans can turn into beasts and Jonah, our main character remains Grounded, locked in human skin unchosen to follow his loved ones. As he discovers more about reincarnation and his past and the world around them, his journey spirals quickly into a world of rebellion and legacy and a power no-one understands and does not cater to those who do not submit.
Jonah was by far my favourite character, I absolutely could not get enough of his inner thoughts which are so beautifully and vividly written. There were so many moments where I felt despair at what was happening to him and why I couldn’t just jump in the book to hold his hand and walk this dangerous journey with him.
Survival is such a key theme in this story and my only advice outside of “just read it” is “bring tissues, you’ll need them”.
The Sound of The Supernova is a really refreshing sci-fi fantasy that covers ALL the bases and gives the feeling of nostalgic space operas with its pacing and alien-esque landscapes.
There is hidden powers, mythological shifters, high stakes, rebellious royalty and the villains really are villains. Alongside the perilous journeys and fast pacing, is a beautifully real story of human emotion, existence and resilience.
Humans can turn into beasts and Jonah, our main character remains Grounded, locked in human skin unchosen to follow his loved ones. As he discovers more about reincarnation and his past and the world around them, his journey spirals quickly into a world of rebellion and legacy and a power no-one understands and does not cater to those who do not submit.
Jonah was by far my favourite character, I absolutely could not get enough of his inner thoughts which are so beautifully and vividly written. There were so many moments where I felt despair at what was happening to him and why I couldn’t just jump in the book to hold his hand and walk this dangerous journey with him.
Survival is such a key theme in this story and my only advice outside of “just read it” is “bring tissues, you’ll need them”.
August 23, 2025
I want to thank the author Jordan Butler for giving me the opportunity for being an arc reader!
4✨
I found it really hard and slow to get into and a bit confusing at first but once I got further into the book I got a good understanding of the plot and the story. It was beautifully written and extremely descriptive which really helped to submerge you into the book and really imagine what was going on.
This is heavy on fantasy and had really good plot and I loved how the main character and side characters had special abilities to transform them into different animals some mythical and form of gods like the 9 tail fox!
This had multi POV and consisted of 3 main characters which follows Jonah, Luca and Amaya. They’re lots of other characters and you got to see and get a great understanding of each character and their transformations as well as their abilities.
This books has some dark themes and has some mention of grape which can be trigging to some reader so please be aware. There was no mention of this trigger so I thought I’d put this out there.
I really enjoyed this book, it was thrilling, kept you on your toes and it really gets you hooked after getting into it after a few chapters as well as heart destroying! I really enjoyed the authors writing and I can’t wait to see what other books he’ll write.
4✨
I found it really hard and slow to get into and a bit confusing at first but once I got further into the book I got a good understanding of the plot and the story. It was beautifully written and extremely descriptive which really helped to submerge you into the book and really imagine what was going on.
This is heavy on fantasy and had really good plot and I loved how the main character and side characters had special abilities to transform them into different animals some mythical and form of gods like the 9 tail fox!
This had multi POV and consisted of 3 main characters which follows Jonah, Luca and Amaya. They’re lots of other characters and you got to see and get a great understanding of each character and their transformations as well as their abilities.
This books has some dark themes and has some mention of grape which can be trigging to some reader so please be aware. There was no mention of this trigger so I thought I’d put this out there.
I really enjoyed this book, it was thrilling, kept you on your toes and it really gets you hooked after getting into it after a few chapters as well as heart destroying! I really enjoyed the authors writing and I can’t wait to see what other books he’ll write.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2025
Well this book wrecked me.
This is a story about survival, identity, and what’s left of you when everything else burns away.
The MC isn’t your typical chosen-one hero. He’s raw, haunted, and painfully human. The world he moves through is cruel and beautiful all at once. It's filled with mythological shifters, buried truths, and power that feels more like a curse than a gift. Every choice carries weight. Every loss lingers.
The writing is stunning. Lyrical without ever losing its edge. You can feel every emotion bleeding through the page: grief, rage, hope, and the heartbeat of someone refusing to give up. There’s a rhythm to the prose that pulls you under, and by the time you realize you’re drowning in it, it’s too late to come up for air.
This story is about surviving. About standing in the ruins of everything you were supposed to be and still moving forward. If you love books that are atmospheric, emotional, and unapologetically human, The Sound of the Supernova deserves your full attention.
What to Expect
-grief
-identity
-survival
-quiet rebellion
-lyrical writing
-mythic undertones
This is a story about survival, identity, and what’s left of you when everything else burns away.
The MC isn’t your typical chosen-one hero. He’s raw, haunted, and painfully human. The world he moves through is cruel and beautiful all at once. It's filled with mythological shifters, buried truths, and power that feels more like a curse than a gift. Every choice carries weight. Every loss lingers.
The writing is stunning. Lyrical without ever losing its edge. You can feel every emotion bleeding through the page: grief, rage, hope, and the heartbeat of someone refusing to give up. There’s a rhythm to the prose that pulls you under, and by the time you realize you’re drowning in it, it’s too late to come up for air.
This story is about surviving. About standing in the ruins of everything you were supposed to be and still moving forward. If you love books that are atmospheric, emotional, and unapologetically human, The Sound of the Supernova deserves your full attention.
What to Expect
-grief
-identity
-survival
-quiet rebellion
-lyrical writing
-mythic undertones
July 4, 2025
Jonah, Amaya and Luca live a peaceful life on their island, until a visitor arrives on behalf of the King and it changes their lives forever.
They have to venture from their home on a perilous journey to find answers, and understand the betrayal that killed their loved ones.
They witness brutality, stumble across a rebellious faction, uncover secrets of their heritage, and work together to help liberate the city from the villainous King.
It is a powerful and transformative journey, with hidden powers, mythological shifters, and high stakes.
The character's vulnerabilities are at the centre, it doesn't shy away from pain, loss or grief, and its focus is the will of a person to survive, and the sacrifices they have to make along the way for a greater cause.
It's a vivid journey, with unique abilities, and a character driven adventure that not everyone will survive. The ending is emotional and raw, and shows the blurred lines between monsters and heroes, and how we justify our actions.
They have to venture from their home on a perilous journey to find answers, and understand the betrayal that killed their loved ones.
They witness brutality, stumble across a rebellious faction, uncover secrets of their heritage, and work together to help liberate the city from the villainous King.
It is a powerful and transformative journey, with hidden powers, mythological shifters, and high stakes.
The character's vulnerabilities are at the centre, it doesn't shy away from pain, loss or grief, and its focus is the will of a person to survive, and the sacrifices they have to make along the way for a greater cause.
It's a vivid journey, with unique abilities, and a character driven adventure that not everyone will survive. The ending is emotional and raw, and shows the blurred lines between monsters and heroes, and how we justify our actions.
March 7, 2026
I recently finished reading The Sound of the Supernova and it pulled me in more than I expected. The whole idea of the Nova starting as something meant to heal people but slowly turning into a force that changes them was really fascinating. Jonah’s journey especially stood out to me. You can feel the weight of everything he lost, and the way revenge keeps pushing him forward makes his choices feel intense and real.
What I liked most was how the story doesn’t treat power as something simple or heroic. Every step Jonah takes with the Nova seems to cost him somethin, his anger, his humanity, and even the person he used to be. That slow transformation made the story feel darker and more emotional.
It’s the kind of fantasy that isn’t just about battles or saving the world, but about survival, grief, and the hard choices that shape who someone becomes. By the end, I found myself thinking about Jonah’s decisions and how far he was willing to go once the truth about the Nova started coming out. It’s a powerful and thought-provoking read.
What I liked most was how the story doesn’t treat power as something simple or heroic. Every step Jonah takes with the Nova seems to cost him somethin, his anger, his humanity, and even the person he used to be. That slow transformation made the story feel darker and more emotional.
It’s the kind of fantasy that isn’t just about battles or saving the world, but about survival, grief, and the hard choices that shape who someone becomes. By the end, I found myself thinking about Jonah’s decisions and how far he was willing to go once the truth about the Nova started coming out. It’s a powerful and thought-provoking read.
July 2, 2025
In full disclosure, I got this is an arc. I think it was a really cute book. Well worth the read. It does have a few trigger warnings and it’s definitely something that the author will let you know in the beginning when the author reached out to me, those were told as well I just wanted you to know that there is some fear. There’s some loss there is some things in there. That does take it a little bit far. That’s not a bad thing if you know what you’re looking for just be aware of that as far as the review, this was a beautiful book. I’m very blessed to be able to read it, but not only because it’s a arc but because it’s something that the author did extra stuff and was very mindful of it it’s a very interesting story from where like the people turn into beast. Also wanted to let you know that the author did change some of this due to some of the reviews that were on it was a little hard to follow at first, but with these reviews, it’s made it a little bit easier. I appreciate those.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2025
First of all, thank you to the author, Jordan, for personally reaching out to me and allowing me to read this book!
It's such a unique read and really beautifully written! The story is easy to follow and has such a fresh style of fantasy.
The book follows our MMC Jonah and his two best friends, Luca and Amaya, who live on an island far from the mainland where they live by completely different rules and are free from the King's tyrannical rein. However, after a horrifying encounter with one of the King's representatives they are forced to take a treacherous journey to the mainland where they are met with many horrors that they'd never have imagined. The trio are forced into a land of betrayal, secrets and heartbreak and the story follows their journies of self discovery and resilience.
I loved that the characters in this book could transform into animals and how the author incorporates this into the story! It's such a unique take on shifters!
It's such a unique read and really beautifully written! The story is easy to follow and has such a fresh style of fantasy.
The book follows our MMC Jonah and his two best friends, Luca and Amaya, who live on an island far from the mainland where they live by completely different rules and are free from the King's tyrannical rein. However, after a horrifying encounter with one of the King's representatives they are forced to take a treacherous journey to the mainland where they are met with many horrors that they'd never have imagined. The trio are forced into a land of betrayal, secrets and heartbreak and the story follows their journies of self discovery and resilience.
I loved that the characters in this book could transform into animals and how the author incorporates this into the story! It's such a unique take on shifters!
March 2, 2026
Wow where do I start with this…
I initially struggled to get into it being a bit confused and trying to wrap my head around who’s POV I was reading but as I got more into the book I must say that it was captivating!
3 friends from a distant land discovering their mainland and the truth behind it, with shapeshifting, found families and hard truths you never knew what to expect!
The story telling and description was incredible and really told you everything you needed to know about these characters and their role in their world!
Strong MMC and delightful side characters being brought into the series!
And the ending….. well I wasn’t expecting that! The author clearly states that this is about finding the truth and not a happy needing but I was not expecting that!
I initially struggled to get into it being a bit confused and trying to wrap my head around who’s POV I was reading but as I got more into the book I must say that it was captivating!
3 friends from a distant land discovering their mainland and the truth behind it, with shapeshifting, found families and hard truths you never knew what to expect!
The story telling and description was incredible and really told you everything you needed to know about these characters and their role in their world!
Strong MMC and delightful side characters being brought into the series!
And the ending….. well I wasn’t expecting that! The author clearly states that this is about finding the truth and not a happy needing but I was not expecting that!
October 1, 2025
4.5 - Would recommend until my last breathe- especially for anyone already a fan of the genre or anyone starting out!
And intricate telling of a man finding his place in the world. The development of the character(s) are woven deep within the story telling, in this beautifully written journey.
On a whole the world is gracefully and beautifully described in a way that I felt I could see the world through the character’s eyes. I felt I was on the journey with him as an observant soul.
The twist and turns keep you gripped and waiting for the next arc.
Honestly couldn’t t put it down!
And intricate telling of a man finding his place in the world. The development of the character(s) are woven deep within the story telling, in this beautifully written journey.
On a whole the world is gracefully and beautifully described in a way that I felt I could see the world through the character’s eyes. I felt I was on the journey with him as an observant soul.
The twist and turns keep you gripped and waiting for the next arc.
Honestly couldn’t t put it down!
December 5, 2025
The author reached out to me and asked if I would review his book for a free digital copy. This book started out great. I was really intrigued by the world and the magic system. What fell flat for me were the three main characters. All three of them have separate POVs, but they seemed to have the same personality making their POVs blend together. This book also felt extremely YA (which isn’t bad, but I’m not a huge YA fan) if it weren’t for the graphic violent descriptions in a few of the chapters. Overall I still enjoyed this book, but I don’t know if I would be interested in continuing the series.
February 14, 2026
I’m a sucker for stories where magic actually has a physical and mental cost, and this hit that spot perfectly. Usually, in these kinds of books, the hero just gets stronger, but watching Jonah slowly lose pieces of his own humanity just to get a shot at revenge was honestly brutal to read.
It’s definitely darker and more "vibey" than your average fantasy - it feels less like a hero’s journey and more like a desperate scramble for survival. If you like that morally gray, heavy-hitting style (think V.E. Schwab or Bardugo), you’ll probably love this. It’s not a "feel good" book, but it’s one that sticks with you after you close it.
It’s definitely darker and more "vibey" than your average fantasy - it feels less like a hero’s journey and more like a desperate scramble for survival. If you like that morally gray, heavy-hitting style (think V.E. Schwab or Bardugo), you’ll probably love this. It’s not a "feel good" book, but it’s one that sticks with you after you close it.
February 28, 2026
The Sound of the Supernova is a breathtaking, emotionally raw fantasy that lingers long after the final page. Jordan Butler crafts a world where power and transformation come at a devastating cost, and every choice feels heavy with consequence. Jonah is a deeply complex protagonist whose grief and anger shape every decision he makes. Watching him struggle between revenge and sacrifice is both heartbreaking and compelling. The Nova concept is original and haunting, blending hope with danger in a fascinating way. Dark, intense, and beautifully written, this story explores identity and survival with remarkable depth.
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