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Bones
1 pages, Audio CD
Published November 4, 2025
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October 28, 2025
First, thank you to NetGalley, K.L. Speer and Tantor Media for the audio-arc, in return for an honest review. Review contains spoilers!
Overall - 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3
Oof, this is a tough one mainly because there was so much promise to the story, and I really loved it, up until I hit around the 80% mark, and a sudden fatigue came over me while listening to this.
This is an adult dystopia where the main character, Bones, is a magical healer. During some raid, a group of unknowns accidentally “free” her, but during it all, Trey, the MMC, gets shot, and Bones just can’t leave him there to die, so she heals him. But that gets her “included” into their group and she gets brought to their settlement.
The set-up is interesting. It’s action packed and mysterious. Who is Bones? Who are the other people? How did she get imprisoned? Why? When? How did she get her powers? And so on. And for the majority of the book, it is interesting enough to follow along, until you hit a point and start thinking a bit about everything. And then it gets tedious.
The world - unfortunately, there was barely any world building for me. Where are we? By context clues, I incur that it’s some version of future USA, but it is never fully stated. There are no marks or any historical book one can reference as to where this story takes place.
Why is it that way? It took until about 70ish% for the two main characters to even ask one another what they think happened. Do they not have curiosity about the world they live in? Do they not wish to know how these settlements came about? They simply accept their reality, but don’t care as to how it came to be, and it is not a utopia where you could understand the reasoning as to why they wouldn’t care.
The new religion and gods of the story. I’m sorry, but with how Christian-centric USA is, I don’t believe for a second a completely new kind of religion would take over, especially with a pantheon of gods (not really explained as to how the religion emerged, took over the world, why these specific gods). The gods are never really named either apart from one, and it is not established as to who these gods govern and why people would worship them. And when we go further than the Vault, it isn’t established if these gods are area specific or an overall thing for the region/country. There is so much that needs to be fleshed out in the world, and I have so many questions. Way too many questions, after reading the full book. If this is meant to be left open for it to be fleshed out further on, this is not how you do world-building. The first book is there to set up the main issues, main history and introduce us as to where we are.
The powers thing - how? When? Why? Why Bones? Literally, she is the only person in the Vault who is powered. It is established there are more powered people, but it is never explained how they came about the powers. Even Bones herself - did she never want to figure out why she has them? Who was the first one who had powers? We don’t ever found out who is this mysterious person Bones is connected to when she is under the influence of narcs (drugs that knock you out). I assume it’s meant to be Vulture, an ex-gang member of the gang she was first adopted into, but Bones never states it, so we’re left to assume, she never figures it out. She also never fully trains her powers. She either just heals people, starts randomly glowing (mostly during sex), or gets pushed to a burnout. There is not a single scene where she fully starts to think as to how to control, manage or deepen her powers. There is a time where Trey says she healed him without a touch and from afar, and Bones doesn’t question such development one bit. The characters lack so much interest about themselves and who they are, it doesn’t fit with the dystopian genre. By the end of it, it felt like it was more just to make Bones “special” and to have reason for the gangs to want her with them, rather than an actual plot point.
Dystopia is meant to examine political systems, it’s meant to make us question and grapple with our world-views, but when the main character (we’re in 1st POV by the way), doesn’t care about anything, it is exhausting to do so in their stead, and makes us not care about the world they live in either.
Speaking of characters - Bones has absolutely no growth. We go through the whole book, through so many traumatic events only for her to remain the exact same as she began. And I think that is my biggest issue with this book. Even when the MMC Trey gets killed, it did nothing, because it didn’t feel like Bones had changed enough for his death to have any impact on her.
Also, gods (pun intended), the amount of times this girl gets knocked out, falls unconscious is alarming, but in a way it made me start to think the author didn’t know how to write scene changes. Yes, it is a violent book, but Bones does nothing and has absolutely no agency. Honestly, Bella Swan is a more active protagonist than Bones is. Everything happens around her and to her, but she does nothing to change her circumstances, apart from maybe two times in the whole book.
I have so much more I want to say, and will probably update the review as I sit with my thoughts, but it is painful to write this. The book ended on a cliffhanger, but I don’t know if I’m interested enough to read the second book.
Overall - 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3
Oof, this is a tough one mainly because there was so much promise to the story, and I really loved it, up until I hit around the 80% mark, and a sudden fatigue came over me while listening to this.
This is an adult dystopia where the main character, Bones, is a magical healer. During some raid, a group of unknowns accidentally “free” her, but during it all, Trey, the MMC, gets shot, and Bones just can’t leave him there to die, so she heals him. But that gets her “included” into their group and she gets brought to their settlement.
The set-up is interesting. It’s action packed and mysterious. Who is Bones? Who are the other people? How did she get imprisoned? Why? When? How did she get her powers? And so on. And for the majority of the book, it is interesting enough to follow along, until you hit a point and start thinking a bit about everything. And then it gets tedious.
The world - unfortunately, there was barely any world building for me. Where are we? By context clues, I incur that it’s some version of future USA, but it is never fully stated. There are no marks or any historical book one can reference as to where this story takes place.
Why is it that way? It took until about 70ish% for the two main characters to even ask one another what they think happened. Do they not have curiosity about the world they live in? Do they not wish to know how these settlements came about? They simply accept their reality, but don’t care as to how it came to be, and it is not a utopia where you could understand the reasoning as to why they wouldn’t care.
The new religion and gods of the story. I’m sorry, but with how Christian-centric USA is, I don’t believe for a second a completely new kind of religion would take over, especially with a pantheon of gods (not really explained as to how the religion emerged, took over the world, why these specific gods). The gods are never really named either apart from one, and it is not established as to who these gods govern and why people would worship them. And when we go further than the Vault, it isn’t established if these gods are area specific or an overall thing for the region/country. There is so much that needs to be fleshed out in the world, and I have so many questions. Way too many questions, after reading the full book. If this is meant to be left open for it to be fleshed out further on, this is not how you do world-building. The first book is there to set up the main issues, main history and introduce us as to where we are.
The powers thing - how? When? Why? Why Bones? Literally, she is the only person in the Vault who is powered. It is established there are more powered people, but it is never explained how they came about the powers. Even Bones herself - did she never want to figure out why she has them? Who was the first one who had powers? We don’t ever found out who is this mysterious person Bones is connected to when she is under the influence of narcs (drugs that knock you out). I assume it’s meant to be Vulture, an ex-gang member of the gang she was first adopted into, but Bones never states it, so we’re left to assume, she never figures it out. She also never fully trains her powers. She either just heals people, starts randomly glowing (mostly during sex), or gets pushed to a burnout. There is not a single scene where she fully starts to think as to how to control, manage or deepen her powers. There is a time where Trey says she healed him without a touch and from afar, and Bones doesn’t question such development one bit. The characters lack so much interest about themselves and who they are, it doesn’t fit with the dystopian genre. By the end of it, it felt like it was more just to make Bones “special” and to have reason for the gangs to want her with them, rather than an actual plot point.
Dystopia is meant to examine political systems, it’s meant to make us question and grapple with our world-views, but when the main character (we’re in 1st POV by the way), doesn’t care about anything, it is exhausting to do so in their stead, and makes us not care about the world they live in either.
Speaking of characters - Bones has absolutely no growth. We go through the whole book, through so many traumatic events only for her to remain the exact same as she began. And I think that is my biggest issue with this book. Even when the MMC Trey gets killed, it did nothing, because it didn’t feel like Bones had changed enough for his death to have any impact on her.
Also, gods (pun intended), the amount of times this girl gets knocked out, falls unconscious is alarming, but in a way it made me start to think the author didn’t know how to write scene changes. Yes, it is a violent book, but Bones does nothing and has absolutely no agency. Honestly, Bella Swan is a more active protagonist than Bones is. Everything happens around her and to her, but she does nothing to change her circumstances, apart from maybe two times in the whole book.
I have so much more I want to say, and will probably update the review as I sit with my thoughts, but it is painful to write this. The book ended on a cliffhanger, but I don’t know if I’m interested enough to read the second book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this audiobook! The narrators did an incredible job as their voices fit the characters perfectly and truly made the story come alive. I felt so much pain and emotion for Bones throughout the entire book. The story follows a healer, and while it gives off that gritty biker-gang vibe, it’s something entirely its own. There’s such an amazing found family aspect woven through this story that makes it even more heartfelt. Trey completely stole my heart with his patience and loyalty. I can’t wait to continue this series!
April 30, 2026
Tropes: Dark Dystopian Post Apocalyptic Romantacy, May Cause Emotional Damage, Magic Healing Powers, PTSD & Trauma, Black Cat FMC & Golden Retriever MMC, Slow Burn, Found Family, Grumpy X Sunshine
Quotes: “This won’t break you. You’re a river Bones, you don’t break you bend. If someone tries to control you find a new way around. People might think you’re just water, might think they have you contained, but your strong enough to cut a path through mountain rock and wild enough to was everything away when you rage.”
Review Spoiler Free: Bones was born with the miraculous power to heal, but all her gift has brought is death. As a child, her older brother trained her to survive, and so survive she did. The blood on her hands will never wash off, she is broken and scarred in more ways than one, but she survived. Though, while life is far from safe and perfect in The Vault, she soon discovers that it’s not a prison but more of a home, if only she can allow it to be. Still haunted by the ghosts of her past, she’ll have to navigate her trauma and learn how to trust, love, and be loved again, which scares her more than any of the horrors she’s lived through.
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tears Shed: 💧💧💧💧
Quotes: “This won’t break you. You’re a river Bones, you don’t break you bend. If someone tries to control you find a new way around. People might think you’re just water, might think they have you contained, but your strong enough to cut a path through mountain rock and wild enough to was everything away when you rage.”
Review Spoiler Free: Bones was born with the miraculous power to heal, but all her gift has brought is death. As a child, her older brother trained her to survive, and so survive she did. The blood on her hands will never wash off, she is broken and scarred in more ways than one, but she survived. Though, while life is far from safe and perfect in The Vault, she soon discovers that it’s not a prison but more of a home, if only she can allow it to be. Still haunted by the ghosts of her past, she’ll have to navigate her trauma and learn how to trust, love, and be loved again, which scares her more than any of the horrors she’s lived through.
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tears Shed: 💧💧💧💧
November 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 rounded up . Book set in post apocalyptic world dealing with a lot of trauma. It s tagged as romantasy however while there was sweet romantic moments , this was not a romantasy, but more of a dark fantasy
November 5, 2025
I received this audiobook via NetGalley in exchange for a review. I loved the name of the book and the cover; I’m very much drawn to books visually. The narrator did a great job!
This book would have been 4 stars for me but there was so much information I wanted that we didn’t get.
I would have loved more world building and more exploration of the FMC’s past and the magic system of this dystopian world.
It’s a very character driven book with not much of a plot. Even though I started to lose interest at about 80%, I’ll read book 2 at some point. Hopefully it answers my questions!
January 14, 2026
This one was not for me. Set in a dystopian post apocalyptic world….. that’s all you get. You don’t find out why the world crumbled. There is no world building. And there’s no explanation of why there are different settlements/gangs. Where did all of the resources go? You never find out. Why is bones the only person who has powers?? Why is she special? Again, never found out.
The entire story felt repetitive. Here are my petty reasons.
1. I swear to God they say the word bones every two seconds.
2. The indignant refusal for bones to accept help got old very quickly.
3. The same conversation about her not pushing people away happened approximately 32 times.
I get that people have trauma responses when there is a horrific history of abuse and violence, but this book wasn’t it.
The entire story felt repetitive. Here are my petty reasons.
1. I swear to God they say the word bones every two seconds.
2. The indignant refusal for bones to accept help got old very quickly.
3. The same conversation about her not pushing people away happened approximately 32 times.
I get that people have trauma responses when there is a horrific history of abuse and violence, but this book wasn’t it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2026
I was very fortunate to receive an e-copy of this book that is being traditionally published.
I had heard some talk of it and such good things - and the hype delivered. This is sooo good. The drama, the feelings, the back and forth - it’s just so good. I could hardly put this down.
Bones has spent most of her life being used and treated horribly - joining a gang as their healer, their leader used her power terribly and selfishly. When she finally escapes - it’s to be captured again by a different group. She gets brought to the Vault and volun-told to be the towns healers - but also, has to do the terrible bidding of the head leader (Madame). But the small crew that initially captured her, take her in as one of their own. And one of the men, Trey, draws her in like no other. But used to keeping a distance from everyone, she keeps her walls up and her secrets close. But dangers aren’t only coming from inside the vault, but from outside it as well. Can she learn to trust this new rag tag crew, or will she survive on her own.
Read you TWs cause there are some sensitive topics in here.
I had heard some talk of it and such good things - and the hype delivered. This is sooo good. The drama, the feelings, the back and forth - it’s just so good. I could hardly put this down.
Bones has spent most of her life being used and treated horribly - joining a gang as their healer, their leader used her power terribly and selfishly. When she finally escapes - it’s to be captured again by a different group. She gets brought to the Vault and volun-told to be the towns healers - but also, has to do the terrible bidding of the head leader (Madame). But the small crew that initially captured her, take her in as one of their own. And one of the men, Trey, draws her in like no other. But used to keeping a distance from everyone, she keeps her walls up and her secrets close. But dangers aren’t only coming from inside the vault, but from outside it as well. Can she learn to trust this new rag tag crew, or will she survive on her own.
Read you TWs cause there are some sensitive topics in here.
November 2, 2025
I received the audiobook of Bones by K. L. Speer as an ARC from NetGalley and I’m so glad I did, What an experience! The narrator was absolutely amazing and brought so much life to the story. Her voice made the world feel vivid and the characters unforgettable; she added a layer of emotion that made the book even more fun to listen to.
The pacing was phenomenal, I was hooked right from the beginning and ended up finishing it in just two days. The story moves quickly, with plenty of action, banter and emotional moments that keep you invested throughout. Even though several twists were predictable, they didn’t take away from the excitement. The world-building felt fresh for a dystopian fantasy and the emotional payoff was strong. There’s one major twist I saw coming (maybe I’m just cynical!), but it still broke my heart when it happened.
Mak was definitely my favorite character. The found family dynamic and the crew’s bond were beautifully written and reminded me a lot of Six of Crows. That same mix of danger, humor and deep connection shines through here as well.
Overall, Bones is a thrilling start to what I hope becomes an incredible series. With its fast pace, compelling characters and standout narration, it’s a must-listen for fans of dystopian fantasy adventures.
The pacing was phenomenal, I was hooked right from the beginning and ended up finishing it in just two days. The story moves quickly, with plenty of action, banter and emotional moments that keep you invested throughout. Even though several twists were predictable, they didn’t take away from the excitement. The world-building felt fresh for a dystopian fantasy and the emotional payoff was strong. There’s one major twist I saw coming (maybe I’m just cynical!), but it still broke my heart when it happened.
Mak was definitely my favorite character. The found family dynamic and the crew’s bond were beautifully written and reminded me a lot of Six of Crows. That same mix of danger, humor and deep connection shines through here as well.
Overall, Bones is a thrilling start to what I hope becomes an incredible series. With its fast pace, compelling characters and standout narration, it’s a must-listen for fans of dystopian fantasy adventures.
March 3, 2026
I was honestly surprised by this and probably would never have read it if it wasn’t for our book club. I didn’t realise the time it was set or the setting itself when I voted for it to be our read so it felt like I went in blind.
Bones is an interesting character and has been truly hurt from events in her past. It’s hard to understand some of the decisions she makes sometimes and how she holds herself back but she really is just trying to protect herself. I loved the found family element in this book and it definitely felt different in this dystopian survival of the fittest world.
I really liked all of the side characters too and I was definitely shipping a different MMC so I think the sequel will be very interesting, especially as the ending was a shocking cliffhanger. It was good and I enjoyed it more than I thought I would.
Bones is an interesting character and has been truly hurt from events in her past. It’s hard to understand some of the decisions she makes sometimes and how she holds herself back but she really is just trying to protect herself. I loved the found family element in this book and it definitely felt different in this dystopian survival of the fittest world.
I really liked all of the side characters too and I was definitely shipping a different MMC so I think the sequel will be very interesting, especially as the ending was a shocking cliffhanger. It was good and I enjoyed it more than I thought I would.
October 29, 2025
4.5⭐️
It’s been a year and a half since I first read this, and I’ve realized I’m still in denial over some things. I was just as hooked as the first time, and the audiobook was such a great choice for a reread.
I’ve been badgering everyone to read this, and for good reason. It’s not your typical romantasy, you definitely need a strong heart to get through it. I knew what was coming this time, so I didn’t cry… but it still hurt just as much.
Now I’m dreading the audiobook of book two, because that heartbreak hit me even harder than book one. But if you’re someone who loves stories that rip your heart out in the best way possible, you’re welcome to check this out. It’s out in all formats now.
It’s been a year and a half since I first read this, and I’ve realized I’m still in denial over some things. I was just as hooked as the first time, and the audiobook was such a great choice for a reread.
I’ve been badgering everyone to read this, and for good reason. It’s not your typical romantasy, you definitely need a strong heart to get through it. I knew what was coming this time, so I didn’t cry… but it still hurt just as much.
Now I’m dreading the audiobook of book two, because that heartbreak hit me even harder than book one. But if you’re someone who loves stories that rip your heart out in the best way possible, you’re welcome to check this out. It’s out in all formats now.
January 27, 2026
I loved the pace of this book! It was so fun to feel consistent movement. I loved the balance of plot, character development, and world-building. It didn’t lean too heavy into any single element. I finished this book very quickly. It didn’t feel like an addictive page turner but more of an engaging world to keep returning to. I loved being able to watch Bones cope with, heal, and reconcile with her trauma. I liked this being a primary focus of her character development. The post-apocalyptic setting with some magic abilities added enough fantasy dimension to hold my attention as well. I also appreciated the author’s ethics. I will definitely read the second book.
November 10, 2025
3.5 stars. I enjoyed this one for the most part. I loved the found family and all the deleted and action. The MMC was amazing. I feel so bad for the FMC. But honestly, there were times where I was bored to the point of wanting to just finish the book. I will give the second book a try but not anytime soon.
March 2, 2026
This story broke me it was beautiful, sad and gripping, Bones has it tough from day one and the journey you go along with her you feel like you are next to her experiencing what she is going through. Im looking forward to reading the 2nd book It's just a shame it's not on ku as well.
April 19, 2026
I wanted to like this more than I think I did. Am I sick of the martyr thinks she’s hopeless MFC? I think I want them to all know their bad asses & not blame themselves for shitty people (especially men’s) mistakes
May 7, 2026
I ate this one up! I think I’m really turning into a dystopian romance girl?
The whole story was well paced, action packed. I was never bored.
Loved the friendships that were formed and how they really fought for each other in their “crew”
Emotional damage 10/10
The whole story was well paced, action packed. I was never bored.
Loved the friendships that were formed and how they really fought for each other in their “crew”
Emotional damage 10/10
April 2, 2026
Kind of like a long way to set the scene for the second book, I feel like things will actually start in book 2
January 18, 2026
Literally nothing happened in this, but I ATE IT UPPP 👅
April 2, 2026
My heart hurts and I have questions. I’ll be picking up book two immediately.
This isn’t a jolly old romantasy with a HEA - we don’t have much world building, or knowledge of why the world is the way it is, why the FMC has healing powers, how they work etc it’s vague but that is I think intentional and ads to the overall uncertainty.
It’s bleak, some parts intentionally mundane as a contrast with the jaw droppingly extraordinary. it’s dystopian, it explores grief, trauma, healing. I cried.
whenever you think there could be some sweet sweet hope it’s ripped out underneath you and your back to bleak. I found the depiction of grief so relatable and honest it hurt.
The found family is genuine, complex and wonderful. The romance is sweet and beautiful. The violence and brutality is stark. And it’s all so well bound up together.
December 22, 2025
This might be one of the most beautiful heart wrenching books that I’ve read all year. The one thing that I’ll say first is that it is not a romantic. It’s a post apocalyptic with a little bit of magic but barely there. The world kind of reminded me a bit of the last of us so if you like that kind of style, then pick this book up. This book is not as much as plot heavy versus taking you on a story of our main character is growth and development, and her emotional journey along the way. I will say I absolutely sobbed throughout this entire book till the very last page. I am absolutely shattered and heartbroken. I will 100% be reading an act immediately, but my heart is in pieces and I feel so much for this fictional character. It’s insane.
SPOILERS:
I was hoping that Trey was not actually dead, but unfortunately, I think the story moves on. I was actually quite excited to read about a Rivers grumpy Sunshine where the guy gets the girl but like most Rivers grumpy Sunshine he dies and I think that was what I was so emotionally distressing is he was a bit of the sunshine and the levity in the book that made you smile and helped with the healing so to have him gone is truly heartbreaking and I don’t say that lightly. I got super emotionally attached to these two and so to see their love story and was what really gutted me. I had suspicions about the plot twist of who the person in our head wise and who was tracking her. What I liked most about this as it wasn’t all leading up to the cliffhanger ending in the plot twist, it was more of an emotional journey, but very interested to see where it goes. I was sneaking suspicion that her and Mac are going to find each other in the end.
All in all truly phenomenal book about trauma and healing. Homegirl did not sugar go a single thing throughout the story and I think that’s so beautiful. It had the same heartbreaking aching feel as alchemized with the healing aspect as well as the post apocalyptic dystopian world, but I think what was different for me about that was the love story was a little bit more kind and healing very during manacled/alchemized it was more raw, but we’ll see what happens in the next book
SPOILERS:
I was hoping that Trey was not actually dead, but unfortunately, I think the story moves on. I was actually quite excited to read about a Rivers grumpy Sunshine where the guy gets the girl but like most Rivers grumpy Sunshine he dies and I think that was what I was so emotionally distressing is he was a bit of the sunshine and the levity in the book that made you smile and helped with the healing so to have him gone is truly heartbreaking and I don’t say that lightly. I got super emotionally attached to these two and so to see their love story and was what really gutted me. I had suspicions about the plot twist of who the person in our head wise and who was tracking her. What I liked most about this as it wasn’t all leading up to the cliffhanger ending in the plot twist, it was more of an emotional journey, but very interested to see where it goes. I was sneaking suspicion that her and Mac are going to find each other in the end.
All in all truly phenomenal book about trauma and healing. Homegirl did not sugar go a single thing throughout the story and I think that’s so beautiful. It had the same heartbreaking aching feel as alchemized with the healing aspect as well as the post apocalyptic dystopian world, but I think what was different for me about that was the love story was a little bit more kind and healing very during manacled/alchemized it was more raw, but we’ll see what happens in the next book
October 30, 2025
Bones is an incredibly gritty story which focuses on the FMC who is a magical healer and has seen many awful things and is a strong resilient woman and does this by cutting off having relationships with anyone else, friends/lovers/ family none of these are held above her need to survive the horrors of her past and her current situation.
A dystopian novel based in a modern day end of the world setting, however it took a little while for the book to explain that the world had changed so much that this was why they lived in these “crews” and had the “raiders”. Once this was explained the backdrop of the environment and the trauma that Bones had clearly experienced had context and I then found it easier to imagine the “world” in which these people were living in. A little more world building would have helped to imagine this better but it does come together if you are a little patient with it.
The plot and story line itself I found captured and engaged me, I loved the twists and turns, I loved the way the story unfolded and felt that the narrator of this audiobook really did justice to the characters and their presentation as well as the pace of the book itself. The narration of this book was really good and fit the entire demeanour well.
Character building was interesting throughout, I was a little disappointed with the growth of Bones but completely understood where the author was going with the FMC character and why she is the way she is, including after the main twist that is within this story.
Overall I really enjoyed this audiobook, listening to it within the space of a few days, I kept wanting to go back and listen regardless of where I was or what I was doing (including the spicy scene blaring out of my car after it had been taken in for its service! Whoops!)
I am very much looking forward to the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley, K. L. Speer and Tantor Media for the audio-arc in return for my honest review. This review contains light spoilers but I kept them as vague as I could !
A dystopian novel based in a modern day end of the world setting, however it took a little while for the book to explain that the world had changed so much that this was why they lived in these “crews” and had the “raiders”. Once this was explained the backdrop of the environment and the trauma that Bones had clearly experienced had context and I then found it easier to imagine the “world” in which these people were living in. A little more world building would have helped to imagine this better but it does come together if you are a little patient with it.
The plot and story line itself I found captured and engaged me, I loved the twists and turns, I loved the way the story unfolded and felt that the narrator of this audiobook really did justice to the characters and their presentation as well as the pace of the book itself. The narration of this book was really good and fit the entire demeanour well.
Character building was interesting throughout, I was a little disappointed with the growth of Bones but completely understood where the author was going with the FMC character and why she is the way she is, including after the main twist that is within this story.
Overall I really enjoyed this audiobook, listening to it within the space of a few days, I kept wanting to go back and listen regardless of where I was or what I was doing (including the spicy scene blaring out of my car after it had been taken in for its service! Whoops!)
I am very much looking forward to the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley, K. L. Speer and Tantor Media for the audio-arc in return for my honest review. This review contains light spoilers but I kept them as vague as I could !
November 4, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
OMG this book!!!! I like going into books as blind as I can and just be swept up in the story and this was no different, however I'm not a huge fan of post apocalyptic stories so for the first 3/4 chapters I was kicking myself thinking perhaps I shouldn't have applied for this advanced copy and that it wasn't going to be for me. Well, let me tell you, I've never been more wrong!
This book consumed me. It's bleak and heartbreaking, at times it gave me strong Mad Max vibes but with a lot more heart (more Furiosa than Mad Max). The stakes are high all the way through, the pacing is fast but not breakneck so you have time to fully soak in the horrors the come at you constantly and appreciate the little moments of hope and peace.
As it says on the cover, it is a story of survival, but not just of the body, at it's core it's a story of survival of the soul. The found family and romance in it are chef's kiss and I immediately proceeded to order paperbacks for both books because A) I NEED to know what happens next and B) The covers are so beautiful I need to have trophies for my shelves.
The narrator for the audiobook has done an absolutely excellent job. Do I think that this could have been even better as a duet narration? Yes I do. But do I understand not every single book can be duet? Yes, although why not? Regardless, this narrator really could not have done a better job at bringing this story to life.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and RB Media for giving me a chance to try something outside of my comfort zone and giving me a whole new personality in the process.
OMG this book!!!! I like going into books as blind as I can and just be swept up in the story and this was no different, however I'm not a huge fan of post apocalyptic stories so for the first 3/4 chapters I was kicking myself thinking perhaps I shouldn't have applied for this advanced copy and that it wasn't going to be for me. Well, let me tell you, I've never been more wrong!
This book consumed me. It's bleak and heartbreaking, at times it gave me strong Mad Max vibes but with a lot more heart (more Furiosa than Mad Max). The stakes are high all the way through, the pacing is fast but not breakneck so you have time to fully soak in the horrors the come at you constantly and appreciate the little moments of hope and peace.
As it says on the cover, it is a story of survival, but not just of the body, at it's core it's a story of survival of the soul. The found family and romance in it are chef's kiss and I immediately proceeded to order paperbacks for both books because A) I NEED to know what happens next and B) The covers are so beautiful I need to have trophies for my shelves.
The narrator for the audiobook has done an absolutely excellent job. Do I think that this could have been even better as a duet narration? Yes I do. But do I understand not every single book can be duet? Yes, although why not? Regardless, this narrator really could not have done a better job at bringing this story to life.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and RB Media for giving me a chance to try something outside of my comfort zone and giving me a whole new personality in the process.
December 18, 2025
In the prologue, we meet a 10 year old girl with healing powers. All alone, she stumbles across a gang who take her to be their healer. As we fast forward 12 years into chapter 1, she has just escaped the gang only to be captured by a new crew and taken to their stronghold, known as The Vault. Known as Bones, our FMC has led a very traumatic life and is, unsurprisingly, slow to trust this new group of people. Slowly, however, they start to break down her walls, but Bones has a past and she’s terrified it’s going to catch up with her.
There was next to no world building in this book. Bones’ healing magic appears to be extremely unusual but it’s not clear if she’s the only known magic user in this world or if there are others. It also seems to be some sort of post-apocalyptic society yet, again, this isn’t explained in any depth. It’s also pretty dark with lots of heavy themes and, arguably, pretty slow in terms of plot movement. While that might sound negative, I was actually really engaged throughout and that is all down to the characters, who are absolutely the selling point of this book. The gorgeous Trey, the mysterious Mac, the charming Sam and the tenacious Apple. There’s definitely some foreshadowing in this book which leads me to think I may have some ideas about where this series is going in the future. And after the way it ended, I’m excited to pick up book 2.
The audiobook narrator was fantastic and I think she brought a lot to this book in terms of the storytelling, so I’d highly recommend giving it a listen.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC of this book.
There was next to no world building in this book. Bones’ healing magic appears to be extremely unusual but it’s not clear if she’s the only known magic user in this world or if there are others. It also seems to be some sort of post-apocalyptic society yet, again, this isn’t explained in any depth. It’s also pretty dark with lots of heavy themes and, arguably, pretty slow in terms of plot movement. While that might sound negative, I was actually really engaged throughout and that is all down to the characters, who are absolutely the selling point of this book. The gorgeous Trey, the mysterious Mac, the charming Sam and the tenacious Apple. There’s definitely some foreshadowing in this book which leads me to think I may have some ideas about where this series is going in the future. And after the way it ended, I’m excited to pick up book 2.
The audiobook narrator was fantastic and I think she brought a lot to this book in terms of the storytelling, so I’d highly recommend giving it a listen.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC of this book.
May 4, 2026
If you’re looking for a traditional romantasy with a HEA, then this isn’t the book for you.
If however, you like dystopian fiction, a story that will break you and characters that you can’t help but love, then I would highly recommend Bones.
Set in a post apocalyptic world, Bones lives with the truly magical power of being able to heal others with no explanation as to how she came to have such power. Her powers however came with no shortage of troubles for her, and she found herself being cast out of her family into the desert where she was taken in by reapers, used and abused.
When she is taken to the vault as a gifted treasure, it quickly becomes clear that Bones will have to learn who she can trust, if anyone, and that it really is survival of the fittest.
This story is moving, raw and at times utterly heartbreaking.
For Bones, suffering is relentless, and this story really reflects the journey she goes on and how impossible and desperate day to day life really is for her. It is not softened down for the benefit of the reader, it is there for us to read and to feel that despair. At times I struggled to understand Bones and the decisions she made and behaviours she displayed. She was challenging and difficult, but as the story developed, I started to really see her fear of losing people she loved. It was easier for her to keep people at a distance than to face anymore heart ache and I honestly just wanted to give her the biggest hug. The side characters, particularly those in her team were all fantastic too.
All I can say about the ending was wow! Can’t wait for part 2!
If however, you like dystopian fiction, a story that will break you and characters that you can’t help but love, then I would highly recommend Bones.
Set in a post apocalyptic world, Bones lives with the truly magical power of being able to heal others with no explanation as to how she came to have such power. Her powers however came with no shortage of troubles for her, and she found herself being cast out of her family into the desert where she was taken in by reapers, used and abused.
When she is taken to the vault as a gifted treasure, it quickly becomes clear that Bones will have to learn who she can trust, if anyone, and that it really is survival of the fittest.
This story is moving, raw and at times utterly heartbreaking.
For Bones, suffering is relentless, and this story really reflects the journey she goes on and how impossible and desperate day to day life really is for her. It is not softened down for the benefit of the reader, it is there for us to read and to feel that despair. At times I struggled to understand Bones and the decisions she made and behaviours she displayed. She was challenging and difficult, but as the story developed, I started to really see her fear of losing people she loved. It was easier for her to keep people at a distance than to face anymore heart ache and I honestly just wanted to give her the biggest hug. The side characters, particularly those in her team were all fantastic too.
All I can say about the ending was wow! Can’t wait for part 2!
March 15, 2026
I’m so glad I saw a review that convinced me to read Bones. I thoroughly enjoyed the Audiobook and the post Apocalyptic romance. Definitely a reverse Grumpy x Sunshine, that has our FMC breaking down her walls. It has a great balance of Plot, character development and world building, whilst moving at a good pace.
Bones was born with miraculous powers to heal, but all her gift has brought is death. As a child, her older brother trained her to survive, and so survive she did. The blood on her hands will never wash off, she is broken and scarred in more ways then one. After finally escaping the ruthless raiders who imprisoned her for 12 years, bones is haunted by her past and desperate for atonement.
Freedom is short lived however, as rumours of her abilities catch up to her. Dragged to the Northwest Mountain stronghold known as the Vault, Bones finds herself drawn to the tight knit crew who captured her, and the feelings she begins to develop for Trey, the heart of the crew. Bones struggles to maintain her distance and navigate her trauma. Her defences slowly break down and she’s forced to question everything.
This might be one of the most beautifully heart wrenching books that I have ever read. Bones is dealing with the tough hand life has dealt her from page 1 and you will go through it all while on the journey with her. This is not a romance but it will pull you into a world full of tension, mystery and raw emotion, creating a story that is impossible to put down.
Bones was born with miraculous powers to heal, but all her gift has brought is death. As a child, her older brother trained her to survive, and so survive she did. The blood on her hands will never wash off, she is broken and scarred in more ways then one. After finally escaping the ruthless raiders who imprisoned her for 12 years, bones is haunted by her past and desperate for atonement.
Freedom is short lived however, as rumours of her abilities catch up to her. Dragged to the Northwest Mountain stronghold known as the Vault, Bones finds herself drawn to the tight knit crew who captured her, and the feelings she begins to develop for Trey, the heart of the crew. Bones struggles to maintain her distance and navigate her trauma. Her defences slowly break down and she’s forced to question everything.
This might be one of the most beautifully heart wrenching books that I have ever read. Bones is dealing with the tough hand life has dealt her from page 1 and you will go through it all while on the journey with her. This is not a romance but it will pull you into a world full of tension, mystery and raw emotion, creating a story that is impossible to put down.
March 31, 2026
Omg what. The. Fuck. Just. Happened. This book originally was falling into the 3 stars category, 3.25? But then that ending happened and I've not been able to stop sobbing. Our fmc has been through so much, like she would definitely be winning in the candy salad vids. Personally I chose mac, I thought him and the fmc would be really cute and obviously in this book that wasn't the idea. But now that ending and now I know what happens...im guessing second book...ahh. but I also love trey...the blanket. I dont know why that made me cry so much after yk...and apple!? I loved her and bones. I mean the names in here are wild but so was that ending so 🤷 but yea again I loved bones, I always love a healer fmc, she's so tragic and she just makes me so sad. And yes I am shipping her and mac even though I dont know if im supposed to but trey REALLY grew on me at the end. They were really cute. All I'll say is this (possibly a spoiler cos kinda obvious) sam. Do with that information what you will. Im actually so upset. So long story short this was gonna be lower or a solid three stars, you know still good just not my favourite but then it really picked up and I couldnt stop reading (and crying) so now its a four stars. OH! and dont forget about the found family...nope I cant that's me crying again.
October 29, 2025
Deep breath…
This is, admittedly not my usual read. I’m giving it 4 stars because the overall story did elicit emotional responses within me and I think the author did a good job weaving the overall narrative while presenting so many difficult elements.
This is a dark-themed, post-apocalyptic yet realistic, grief-laden, trigger-inducing book. Please make sure to heed trigger warnings.
TW:
SA
Torture
substance abuse
child abuse
domestic abuse
harm to animals
starvation
perilous situations
intense violence
death
detailed descriptions of injuries
I found myself wanting portions of the story to speed up, and some felt repetitive, though there were small changes that made concurrent themes different enough.
The narrator, Megan Carver—their voice took a moment to get used to, but once I did, I believe them to be the absolute best person to narrate this book. They capture the pain and the love within the pages in a hauntingly beautiful manner.
I am ever thankful to have listened to this book on an ALC, thanks to Tantor Media, K.L. Speer, and NetGalley.
#Bones #klspeer #megancarver #NetGalley
This is, admittedly not my usual read. I’m giving it 4 stars because the overall story did elicit emotional responses within me and I think the author did a good job weaving the overall narrative while presenting so many difficult elements.
This is a dark-themed, post-apocalyptic yet realistic, grief-laden, trigger-inducing book. Please make sure to heed trigger warnings.
TW:
SA
Torture
substance abuse
child abuse
domestic abuse
harm to animals
starvation
perilous situations
intense violence
death
detailed descriptions of injuries
I found myself wanting portions of the story to speed up, and some felt repetitive, though there were small changes that made concurrent themes different enough.
The narrator, Megan Carver—their voice took a moment to get used to, but once I did, I believe them to be the absolute best person to narrate this book. They capture the pain and the love within the pages in a hauntingly beautiful manner.
I am ever thankful to have listened to this book on an ALC, thanks to Tantor Media, K.L. Speer, and NetGalley.
#Bones #klspeer #megancarver #NetGalley
November 2, 2025
Bones by K. L. Speer is a beautifully written and emotionally charged story that completely pulled me in from the first page. I loved the raw emotions that drove the story forward—they felt genuine, powerful, and deeply human. Every moment was layered with intensity and heart, making it impossible to put down.
The depth of the characters and their backgrounds made the story even more compelling. Each character felt fully realized, shaped by their pasts in ways that added meaning and tension to every interaction. Their struggles, choices, and growth felt authentic and moving.
What really stood out to me, though, was the atmosphere of the world Speer created. It’s imaginative and immersive, filled with rich details that make you feel like you’re living right alongside the characters. The setting perfectly complements the emotional tone of the story, creating a hauntingly beautiful experience from start to finish.
Overall, Bones is a captivating, heartfelt read that blends raw emotion, layered characters, and a vividly crafted world. It’s one of those stories that lingers long after you’ve finished.
The depth of the characters and their backgrounds made the story even more compelling. Each character felt fully realized, shaped by their pasts in ways that added meaning and tension to every interaction. Their struggles, choices, and growth felt authentic and moving.
What really stood out to me, though, was the atmosphere of the world Speer created. It’s imaginative and immersive, filled with rich details that make you feel like you’re living right alongside the characters. The setting perfectly complements the emotional tone of the story, creating a hauntingly beautiful experience from start to finish.
Overall, Bones is a captivating, heartfelt read that blends raw emotion, layered characters, and a vividly crafted world. It’s one of those stories that lingers long after you’ve finished.
November 3, 2025
This is without a doubt my standout read of 2025. Prepare for complete and utter emotional devastation!
Megan Carver executes her narration with perfection, she conveys emotions in the most stunning and natural way, leaving you experiencing each characters deepest feelings with your whole heart - it's painfully beautiful. Her accent also fits the world so well.
My first dip into dystopian settings, we find our FMC in a modern day post-apocalyptic world. The plot is fresh and unique, with twists that will make your head spin and your heart shatter.
While the story delves into heavy, often harrowing themes, it’s balanced by the FMC’s remarkable journey of growth and resilience. The side characters shine, each one essential, adding warmth, light humour and the comforting sense of found family.
This book wrecked me emotionally more than any other I’ve ever read — but in its wreckage, it left behind something precious: strength, resilience, and above all, hope.
"You are a river. You do not break, you bend." is a quote that will remain with me forever.
An absolute stunning, yet devastating read.
Thank you NetGalley for the ALC.
Megan Carver executes her narration with perfection, she conveys emotions in the most stunning and natural way, leaving you experiencing each characters deepest feelings with your whole heart - it's painfully beautiful. Her accent also fits the world so well.
My first dip into dystopian settings, we find our FMC in a modern day post-apocalyptic world. The plot is fresh and unique, with twists that will make your head spin and your heart shatter.
While the story delves into heavy, often harrowing themes, it’s balanced by the FMC’s remarkable journey of growth and resilience. The side characters shine, each one essential, adding warmth, light humour and the comforting sense of found family.
This book wrecked me emotionally more than any other I’ve ever read — but in its wreckage, it left behind something precious: strength, resilience, and above all, hope.
"You are a river. You do not break, you bend." is a quote that will remain with me forever.
An absolute stunning, yet devastating read.
Thank you NetGalley for the ALC.
November 3, 2025
Bones by K.L. Speer takes place in a post-apocalyptic world.
Thank you to NetGalley, RBmedia, and K.L. Speer for the advanced listener copy of Bones.
So many of my book friends have raved about this series, so when I found out the audiobook was releasing I couldn’t wait to dive in.
Megan Carver narrates and brings the entire story to life. Her performance made me feel EVERY SINGLE EMOTION. I will immediately be reading book 2 Fangs next!
Bones possesses a rare magic that gives her the ability to heal with just her touch. But her gift has never truly been her own. Her entire life she has been used for these powers.
What to expect
-Magical powers
-Female rage
-Trauma
-Found family
-Survival
-Who did this to you
-One bed
-He falls first
This book was absolutely heart breaking in the best way. It is the kind of story that lingers long after you’ve finished it. Speer’s writing is brilliant and will pull you in right from the start.
I can't wait to see what happens next in this powerful and emotional story.
*Please check trigger warnings before reading
Thank you to NetGalley, RBmedia, and K.L. Speer for the advanced listener copy of Bones.
So many of my book friends have raved about this series, so when I found out the audiobook was releasing I couldn’t wait to dive in.
Megan Carver narrates and brings the entire story to life. Her performance made me feel EVERY SINGLE EMOTION. I will immediately be reading book 2 Fangs next!
Bones possesses a rare magic that gives her the ability to heal with just her touch. But her gift has never truly been her own. Her entire life she has been used for these powers.
What to expect
-Magical powers
-Female rage
-Trauma
-Found family
-Survival
-Who did this to you
-One bed
-He falls first
This book was absolutely heart breaking in the best way. It is the kind of story that lingers long after you’ve finished it. Speer’s writing is brilliant and will pull you in right from the start.
I can't wait to see what happens next in this powerful and emotional story.
*Please check trigger warnings before reading
November 4, 2025
4.5⭐️
Bones by K.L. Speer (Audiobook ARC)
This story had me in a chokehold from the first chapter. Bones is dark, gritty, and completely addictive—the kind of book that pulls you into its bleak world and doesn’t let go. It’s an apocalyptic dystopian setting that feels both raw and eerily real, filled with survival, pain, and fleeting moments of humanity that hit even harder because of how rare they are.
I loved every second of the audiobook. Megan Carver’s narration was phenomenal—her performance perfectly matched the tone of the story: rough-edged, emotional, and quietly powerful. She brought so much depth to the main character that I couldn’t imagine reading this in any other format.
This isn’t a comforting story, and I honestly don’t know if a happily ever after even exists in this world—but I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s one of those reads that lingers long after it ends, equal parts haunting and beautiful.
I’m nervous (and maybe a little scared) for book two, but I’m absolutely along for the ride.
Thank you to NetGalley, K.L. Speer, and Tantor Media for the audio ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Bones by K.L. Speer (Audiobook ARC)
This story had me in a chokehold from the first chapter. Bones is dark, gritty, and completely addictive—the kind of book that pulls you into its bleak world and doesn’t let go. It’s an apocalyptic dystopian setting that feels both raw and eerily real, filled with survival, pain, and fleeting moments of humanity that hit even harder because of how rare they are.
I loved every second of the audiobook. Megan Carver’s narration was phenomenal—her performance perfectly matched the tone of the story: rough-edged, emotional, and quietly powerful. She brought so much depth to the main character that I couldn’t imagine reading this in any other format.
This isn’t a comforting story, and I honestly don’t know if a happily ever after even exists in this world—but I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s one of those reads that lingers long after it ends, equal parts haunting and beautiful.
I’m nervous (and maybe a little scared) for book two, but I’m absolutely along for the ride.
Thank you to NetGalley, K.L. Speer, and Tantor Media for the audio ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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