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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!
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!
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.
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.
January 18, 2026
Literally nothing happened in this, but I ATE IT UPPP 👅
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.
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.
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.
October 28, 2025
I enjoyed the book
It's a very brutal story for Bones (Main Character), she deals with so much loss and pain, not just with peers but within herself. The nightmares she replays while dreaming of (Chuck) oh his evil ass, retched and horrible dick.
The healer, she not only goes through a lot of torture just to have to heal herself to go through it again, OMG, the detail of the beating is intense.
Has a lot of Characters to keep up with first four chapters, extremely detail and well explained.
A lot of young characters broke my heart, as well folks who were there since they were children themselves for reason you would need to read or listen to understand.,
So much feelings, and so many I'm Sorry, I'm Fine throughout the book
The romance with Trey (Hope I'm spelling it right)
Concerning, protective, sweet, has a cute nickname for Bones (Short cake) and he talks low and sweet too.
How he was ended did remind me of watching The100 TV show for me when Lincoln died, all The same feels as well. For those who know, know 🥺
Madame was the Worst, cringe character, hated her so much, uhhhhh
I personally was just alright with this book, I'm glad it was read to me which made it sound much better to my ears,
It's a very brutal story for Bones (Main Character), she deals with so much loss and pain, not just with peers but within herself. The nightmares she replays while dreaming of (Chuck) oh his evil ass, retched and horrible dick.
The healer, she not only goes through a lot of torture just to have to heal herself to go through it again, OMG, the detail of the beating is intense.
Has a lot of Characters to keep up with first four chapters, extremely detail and well explained.
A lot of young characters broke my heart, as well folks who were there since they were children themselves for reason you would need to read or listen to understand.,
So much feelings, and so many I'm Sorry, I'm Fine throughout the book
The romance with Trey (Hope I'm spelling it right)
Concerning, protective, sweet, has a cute nickname for Bones (Short cake) and he talks low and sweet too.
How he was ended did remind me of watching The100 TV show for me when Lincoln died, all The same feels as well. For those who know, know 🥺
Madame was the Worst, cringe character, hated her so much, uhhhhh
I personally was just alright with this book, I'm glad it was read to me which made it sound much better to my ears,
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2026
SPOILERS. !!!!
This book leaves so many unanswered questions.
We never learn anything about Bones’ powers besides the fact that she has them for as long as she can remember. Later in the book she learns that she can be healed, heal without touching and glow but this is not studied further. She also doesn’t exercise her power besides healing people. She doesn’t try to understand it.
She doesn’t grow thought the story and mostly is because she refuses to heal from her traumas which has her in an unending cycle of stagnation.
I’m assuming the person that gets in her head when she’s under the Narcs is Wolf and he has powers. I’m assuming we will find out in book 2.
I liked Trey as an MMC, he was all green flags.
I’m assuming Mac will become her new love interest, even though I don’t think enough time will pass for this to have a chance to develop.
Most of the story takes place in the Vault or surrounding it we don’t know where they are and world building is not great. I’m not super excited to read book 2 but I feel like I owe it to myself to see how it ends.
This book leaves so many unanswered questions.
We never learn anything about Bones’ powers besides the fact that she has them for as long as she can remember. Later in the book she learns that she can be healed, heal without touching and glow but this is not studied further. She also doesn’t exercise her power besides healing people. She doesn’t try to understand it.
She doesn’t grow thought the story and mostly is because she refuses to heal from her traumas which has her in an unending cycle of stagnation.
I’m assuming the person that gets in her head when she’s under the Narcs is Wolf and he has powers. I’m assuming we will find out in book 2.
I liked Trey as an MMC, he was all green flags.
I’m assuming Mac will become her new love interest, even though I don’t think enough time will pass for this to have a chance to develop.
Most of the story takes place in the Vault or surrounding it we don’t know where they are and world building is not great. I’m not super excited to read book 2 but I feel like I owe it to myself to see how it ends.
January 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ALC
I really loved this story, even though it completely broke my heart. It’s set in a dystopian world; Bones has magical healing powers but she’s deeply haunted by her past and really struggles to let anyone in. That emotional weight follows her throughout the entire book.
One of my favorite parts was watching Bones slowly open up and begin to heal parts of herself that had been broken for so long. It was such an emotional journey and I felt so connected to her by the end.
The ending left off on a major cliffhanger and I’m already anxiously waiting for the next one to be released on audio!
The narrator was incredible and did such an amazing job bringing all the different characters to life.
I received this audiobook as an advance listening copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really loved this story, even though it completely broke my heart. It’s set in a dystopian world; Bones has magical healing powers but she’s deeply haunted by her past and really struggles to let anyone in. That emotional weight follows her throughout the entire book.
One of my favorite parts was watching Bones slowly open up and begin to heal parts of herself that had been broken for so long. It was such an emotional journey and I felt so connected to her by the end.
The ending left off on a major cliffhanger and I’m already anxiously waiting for the next one to be released on audio!
The narrator was incredible and did such an amazing job bringing all the different characters to life.
I received this audiobook as an advance listening copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 21, 2026
More than 4 ⭐️
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.
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.
February 24, 2026
Holy emotions—this romantasy is intense. Be prepared for a story filled with mistrust, healing, heartbreak, and heavy trauma. The plot dives deep into gang wars and internal conflict, creating a dark and emotionally charged atmosphere.
The FMC is a healer, and while she is strong in the sense that she endures everything thrown at her, her strength often shows more internally than through her actions. Her internal battles are powerful, but her lack of decisive action made it difficult for me to fully connect with her growth.
I’m unsure if I’ll continue on to book two. This installment ends with her finally attempting to heal herself, only to be pulled right back into more drama. I’ll likely check reviews first to see if the FMC begins making stronger, more thoughtful decisions moving forward.
The FMC is a healer, and while she is strong in the sense that she endures everything thrown at her, her strength often shows more internally than through her actions. Her internal battles are powerful, but her lack of decisive action made it difficult for me to fully connect with her growth.
I’m unsure if I’ll continue on to book two. This installment ends with her finally attempting to heal herself, only to be pulled right back into more drama. I’ll likely check reviews first to see if the FMC begins making stronger, more thoughtful decisions moving forward.
November 6, 2025
Thank you, Tantor Media and NetGalley for this painful audio archive.
6 excruciating stars.
Please check the trigger warning for this book. Although I LOVED it, it was painful. My heart is broken.
This deals with trauma, PTSD, mental health, and healing. K. L. Speer wrote this in a way that hit me so deeply due to my own experience with trauma. I have CPTSD, so this hit home.
I was yelling at the FMC, crying for her, laughing for her, and celebrating her short-term wins. I like the direction of this book, but it hurts. The way Bones feels so deeply after opening up was so intense.
Trey. I love you. I will find you in the next life and I hope we have longer. 🥹🥲💜
I cannot wait to continue this story. Literally. I need everyone to be okay!
6 excruciating stars.
Please check the trigger warning for this book. Although I LOVED it, it was painful. My heart is broken.
This deals with trauma, PTSD, mental health, and healing. K. L. Speer wrote this in a way that hit me so deeply due to my own experience with trauma. I have CPTSD, so this hit home.
I was yelling at the FMC, crying for her, laughing for her, and celebrating her short-term wins. I like the direction of this book, but it hurts. The way Bones feels so deeply after opening up was so intense.
Trey. I love you. I will find you in the next life and I hope we have longer. 🥹🥲💜
I cannot wait to continue this story. Literally. I need everyone to be okay!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2025
Went into this book completely blind and had to go back and read the blurb when 30% due to the complete lack of world building. Would’ve loved to get more into this world and had it more fleshed out. It felt very shallow and same for the magic system - there seemed to be little rhyme or reason to it.
There seemed to be random characters and plot lines that were just left but wonder if these end up reappearing in book 2. Like what happened with Lana? Was awaiting for a reappearance of her, or a stronger closure on her character.
Despite that, still enjoyed the characters and the description of abuse, healing, and grief had me ugly crying at the end.
There seemed to be random characters and plot lines that were just left but wonder if these end up reappearing in book 2. Like what happened with Lana? Was awaiting for a reappearance of her, or a stronger closure on her character.
Despite that, still enjoyed the characters and the description of abuse, healing, and grief had me ugly crying at the end.
November 2, 2025
Thank you for the opportunity to review this audio arc!
Set in a dystopian world, Bones our fmc, is a magical healer who escapes one captivity to only end up in another camp.
I really enjoyed this story, it had a lot of interesting and original plot points and ideas, which was a refreshing change from what’s currently around in the book world. The relationship building between Bones and the other characters was good and I can’t wait to start the next book to see where it leads.
The narrator did a great job at portraying all the characters and kept me engaged from start to finish.
Overall I’d say a solid 3.5/5 stars ⭐️
Set in a dystopian world, Bones our fmc, is a magical healer who escapes one captivity to only end up in another camp.
I really enjoyed this story, it had a lot of interesting and original plot points and ideas, which was a refreshing change from what’s currently around in the book world. The relationship building between Bones and the other characters was good and I can’t wait to start the next book to see where it leads.
The narrator did a great job at portraying all the characters and kept me engaged from start to finish.
Overall I’d say a solid 3.5/5 stars ⭐️
January 24, 2026
Definitely was not prepared for where this was headed and NOT prepared for the ending twist. Bones handling her “gift” or her “curse” whichever way she sees it is so well written. Did get annoyed with her a bit with her attitude sometimes but had to remember to try and give her some grace. But I get it. I do wish there was more different POVs hopefully there is in book FANGS. I loved the team and characters the guys were such good characters and maybe not everyone but some more would be cool.
I kind of wanted more info on the apocalyptic world as well.
Overall read it in one go, couldn’t put it down.
I kind of wanted more info on the apocalyptic world as well.
Overall read it in one go, couldn’t put it down.
November 4, 2025
Omg this book was amazing. I’m both upset with myself for letting it sit on my TBR for so long and glad I did since I got the chance to listen in audio format instead. No way I can wait for the second audio to release though, definitely jumping into the ebook that cliff hanger! The story is a unique post apocalyptic take and I really enjoyed it. There’s a little spice but more plot heavy. Excited to see how book 2 will play out
December 13, 2025
ALC review for NetGalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio
Fantastic book. I will be continuing the series.
Bones
by K.L. Speer
Narrated by Megan Carver ( Her narration of Bones had me hooked with in the first Chapter. So thank you for doing such a fantastic job on this book.)
Book 1 of Bones
Pub Date Nov 04 2025 | Tantor Media | Tantor Audio
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio for the ALC of this book for my honest review.
Fantastic book. I will be continuing the series.
Bones
by K.L. Speer
Narrated by Megan Carver ( Her narration of Bones had me hooked with in the first Chapter. So thank you for doing such a fantastic job on this book.)
Book 1 of Bones
Pub Date Nov 04 2025 | Tantor Media | Tantor Audio
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media | Tantor Audio for the ALC of this book for my honest review.
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