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Mytho Collapse #2.5
Palaces and Other Prisons
Sometimes the world is actually ending…
Dawson Hill is used to the routine and isolation of working on an oil platform in the North Sea. He’s woken up by what he thinks is an emergency drill, then the platform shudders and tilts like it’s about to fall into the sea…but the sea is gone. The oil platform is now on an island. And the island is inhabited by all kinds of beings. It soon becomes clear that rescue isn’t coming, and they are running out of food.
Magic is gone, and the water tastes different. Is different. King Ul doesn’t know what to tell his people when they look to him for answers about what happened or what the metal contraption is. The invaders must have answers, so when they leave the metal boxes, he has them arrested, which is how he discovers the marks on his skin glow in the presence of one man. His mate.
Even though Ul wants to get his tentacles on Dawson, he doesn’t have time for love while his kingdom is in trouble.
A gay solstice romance in the Mytho Collapse world, which is set when the mythological world collapses into the human world, stranding all kinds of beings from myth.
Dawson Hill is used to the routine and isolation of working on an oil platform in the North Sea. He’s woken up by what he thinks is an emergency drill, then the platform shudders and tilts like it’s about to fall into the sea…but the sea is gone. The oil platform is now on an island. And the island is inhabited by all kinds of beings. It soon becomes clear that rescue isn’t coming, and they are running out of food.
Magic is gone, and the water tastes different. Is different. King Ul doesn’t know what to tell his people when they look to him for answers about what happened or what the metal contraption is. The invaders must have answers, so when they leave the metal boxes, he has them arrested, which is how he discovers the marks on his skin glow in the presence of one man. His mate.
Even though Ul wants to get his tentacles on Dawson, he doesn’t have time for love while his kingdom is in trouble.
A gay solstice romance in the Mytho Collapse world, which is set when the mythological world collapses into the human world, stranding all kinds of beings from myth.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2025
About the author
T.J. Nichols
99 books364 followersTJ Nichols (they/them) is the author of the Studies in Demonology and Familiar Mates series. They write mostly gay fantasy and paranormal romance, but sometimes gay action/horror as Toby J. Nichols.
After traveling all over the world and Australia, TJ now lives in Perth, Western Australia.
Free gay shifter novella when you join TJ's newsletter: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/jmhq9i8qc7
You can find TJ on
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TJNichols
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follow me on Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/tjnichols or Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tj-ni...
After traveling all over the world and Australia, TJ now lives in Perth, Western Australia.
Free gay shifter novella when you join TJ's newsletter: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/jmhq9i8qc7
You can find TJ on
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TJNichols
Ream: https://reamstories.com/tjnichols
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TJNichols.au...
follow me on Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/tjnichols or Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tj-ni...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 13, 2025
Palaces and other Prisons is part of the multi author Tinsel and Tentacles 3.0 series. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the whole series. This book is set in the Mytho Collapse world. This is the story of Dawson a human and Ul the king of his tentacled mythos group. I loved this book because these two had so many issues to overcome. There was plenty of action, some steam, and a great plot in this story. I loved the characters and world building that went into this book. The books that I have already read in this series have all been 5 star reads and this one is no exception. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
received a free review copy
received a free review copy
November 19, 2025
You know what? Heck yeah.
This book was super interesting to me. Aside from the fact that I love tentacle stories, the whole conundrum of how the oil rig workers and “mythological” creatures met was very intriguing.
The main characters were lovable, and I enjoyed how their story ended. I would love to read even more about them. (This book could have been double the length and I would have been happy!)
Thank you to GRR and the author for this ARC.
This book was super interesting to me. Aside from the fact that I love tentacle stories, the whole conundrum of how the oil rig workers and “mythological” creatures met was very intriguing.
The main characters were lovable, and I enjoyed how their story ended. I would love to read even more about them. (This book could have been double the length and I would have been happy!)
Thank you to GRR and the author for this ARC.
January 11, 2026
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Palaces and Other Prisons, by T.J. Nichols
★★★★★
194 Pages
Themes: grief, loss, tentacles, child loss, attempted murder, politics, two worlds collide, amputation
I'm used to T.J. Nichols' genius. I've been a fan for years, reading everything from the Studies in Demonology to the Familiar Mates series, all the way through the entire Mytho back catalogue. I actually have to say that I think Palaces and Other Prisons is – somehow and slightly surprisingly – one of my favourite of the Mytho series.
The story starts with a surprisingly sad and tragic storyline. One of the main characters, Ul, is the King of krakke. The plot actively begins with the collapse happening around him, after a long time of unusual activity. Ul is frantically trying to save the unhatched eggs of his people, in the watery saves beneath the castle. He's already lost so much, with his husband passing three years ago, and his experience of all the pain, turmoil, and loss that his people are experiencing during the collapse, was so visceral and so well written that I liked Ul instantly and nearly spent the entire first chapter in tears!
From then on, it just got better. Dawson is a lackey on an oil platform, painting and doing odd jobs. He's asleep when the oil platform seems to crash into something. Only, it's not them moving, it's an island appearing below them, leaving the oil platform stranded on land, with a Tariko kingdom on their doorstep and no help on the way for what could be months.
There's a bit of age gap romance, a lot of two worlds collide, and a whole heap of tentacle action. There's also a really nice mention of how integrated the community is, with satyr, krakke and humans coexisting within this kingdom. I also really loved the mention of how humans had arrived on Tariko, eventually integrating into the community like locals.
The secondary characters – Ifer, Katrina and such – were utilised perfectly. They were incredible, funny, and really added to the atmosphere.
As well as the collapse happening in real time, there's also the complication of neither Ul or Dawson speaking the same language. Ul and Dawson both make a really good effort to learn from each other. The krakke are neither male nor female so there's a little bit of self-discovery and confusion from Dawson over his sexuality, because he's always believed he was gay, but now he's also attracted to Ul, who breaks the boundaries of what he's expected of himself so far.
Honestly, I feel like this had so much potential for more stories, especially when the end shows more people adapting to the appearance of the krakke. Despite that, I really think this has the perfect ending. I'd be more than happy to read more in this particular world/period of time or just more about the krakke and their kingdom. There's a lot of space to expand this kingdom, which is isolated enough from the rest of the world to handle a few more stories without the influence of the human world.
~
Favourite Quote
“Sire, you are not well.”
“Oh, I am well. I am just missing half my fucking arm. So I am in pain for myself and for my people who are missing loved ones.” He closed his eyes and drew in a breath. “Apologies, I should not snap when it is not of your doing.”
Ifer smiled. “I have seen grown men behave worse after stubbing their toe.”
Palaces and Other Prisons, by T.J. Nichols
★★★★★
194 Pages
Themes: grief, loss, tentacles, child loss, attempted murder, politics, two worlds collide, amputation
I'm used to T.J. Nichols' genius. I've been a fan for years, reading everything from the Studies in Demonology to the Familiar Mates series, all the way through the entire Mytho back catalogue. I actually have to say that I think Palaces and Other Prisons is – somehow and slightly surprisingly – one of my favourite of the Mytho series.
The story starts with a surprisingly sad and tragic storyline. One of the main characters, Ul, is the King of krakke. The plot actively begins with the collapse happening around him, after a long time of unusual activity. Ul is frantically trying to save the unhatched eggs of his people, in the watery saves beneath the castle. He's already lost so much, with his husband passing three years ago, and his experience of all the pain, turmoil, and loss that his people are experiencing during the collapse, was so visceral and so well written that I liked Ul instantly and nearly spent the entire first chapter in tears!
From then on, it just got better. Dawson is a lackey on an oil platform, painting and doing odd jobs. He's asleep when the oil platform seems to crash into something. Only, it's not them moving, it's an island appearing below them, leaving the oil platform stranded on land, with a Tariko kingdom on their doorstep and no help on the way for what could be months.
There's a bit of age gap romance, a lot of two worlds collide, and a whole heap of tentacle action. There's also a really nice mention of how integrated the community is, with satyr, krakke and humans coexisting within this kingdom. I also really loved the mention of how humans had arrived on Tariko, eventually integrating into the community like locals.
The secondary characters – Ifer, Katrina and such – were utilised perfectly. They were incredible, funny, and really added to the atmosphere.
As well as the collapse happening in real time, there's also the complication of neither Ul or Dawson speaking the same language. Ul and Dawson both make a really good effort to learn from each other. The krakke are neither male nor female so there's a little bit of self-discovery and confusion from Dawson over his sexuality, because he's always believed he was gay, but now he's also attracted to Ul, who breaks the boundaries of what he's expected of himself so far.
Honestly, I feel like this had so much potential for more stories, especially when the end shows more people adapting to the appearance of the krakke. Despite that, I really think this has the perfect ending. I'd be more than happy to read more in this particular world/period of time or just more about the krakke and their kingdom. There's a lot of space to expand this kingdom, which is isolated enough from the rest of the world to handle a few more stories without the influence of the human world.
~
Favourite Quote
“Sire, you are not well.”
“Oh, I am well. I am just missing half my fucking arm. So I am in pain for myself and for my people who are missing loved ones.” He closed his eyes and drew in a breath. “Apologies, I should not snap when it is not of your doing.”
Ifer smiled. “I have seen grown men behave worse after stubbing their toe.”
November 25, 2025
Dawson Hillis used to living an isolated life on an oil platform in the North Sea. When he is awakened by an emergency alarm, he quickly realizes this is not a drill when the platform tilts and the North Sea is gone. An island though appears with all sorts of mythological beings. When it becomes evident that rescue is not coming all that quickly, these beings may be their saviors if they can barter for food and water.
Ul is the king of the inhabitants on the island. He is not sure what happened, but the water is different and magic appears to be gone. Maybe the humans from the metal box have some answers. So, when they arrive, he sets guards on them and tries to learn their language. One of the visitors, Dawson, turns out to be his mate when his marks begin to glow. With so much changing, Ul is not sure he has time for a new mate.
These stories just keep getting better and better. This one is set when the collapse first occurs. Each area handles the collapse differently. In some parts of the world, there are riots and violence. Ul will not let anything happen to his people but he also cannot allow the box people to starve. His reaction to Dawson is amazing when his spots glow a pretty pink. For Dawson’s part, he feels the attraction but is a bit insecure. With so much to work out, is there any hope for them? Building a new life is hard but adding love makes it even harder. To find out how they handle things, you will have to pick up Palaces and Other Prisons to find out for yourself. You will be glad you did. I know I was.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Ul is the king of the inhabitants on the island. He is not sure what happened, but the water is different and magic appears to be gone. Maybe the humans from the metal box have some answers. So, when they arrive, he sets guards on them and tries to learn their language. One of the visitors, Dawson, turns out to be his mate when his marks begin to glow. With so much changing, Ul is not sure he has time for a new mate.
These stories just keep getting better and better. This one is set when the collapse first occurs. Each area handles the collapse differently. In some parts of the world, there are riots and violence. Ul will not let anything happen to his people but he also cannot allow the box people to starve. His reaction to Dawson is amazing when his spots glow a pretty pink. For Dawson’s part, he feels the attraction but is a bit insecure. With so much to work out, is there any hope for them? Building a new life is hard but adding love makes it even harder. To find out how they handle things, you will have to pick up Palaces and Other Prisons to find out for yourself. You will be glad you did. I know I was.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 26, 2025
Palaces and other Prisons by TJ Nichols is another fascinating book set in their Mytho Collapse world, which can continue indefinitely as far as I’m concerned! P & P follows the tale of Dawson, ordinary human, thrust into the new world when an island replaces the North Sea of his oil platform, and Ul, king to all the races living on the island now in the middle of the North Sea. Neither Dawson nor Ul expected to be attracted to the other, Ul for political reasons (Dawson is one of the invading humans!) and Dawson for the bigotry he grew up with (an alien with tentacles!). Watching these two come together, first as friends, and then as more at the end of the story (not a spoiler since this is a romance) was fun, although there were a few TSTL (too stupid to live) moments due to lack of communication. I especially liked how Ul did not just assert his right as a king to do as he pleases, but took his peoples’ thoughts and concerns into consideration. His taking his constituency into account before his own needs shows how just of a ruler he likely is in other situations. Dawson has an entirely different set of issues to deal with, interestingly enough mostly with his employers. The reader has seen why Dawson was happy to be away from “home” for long periods of time, and that sums up his relationship with his family. One of my favorite parts of reading a Mytho book is finding where the title comes from. Without giving anything away, I was surprised by this title, which is a first. There won’t be another Mytho Collapse book until next summer. I hope the author writes another fantasy book before then to tide us over!
November 21, 2025
PALACES AND OTHER PRISONS is part of the Tinsel and Tentacles 3:0 series, and features Ul, king of the Krakke, and Dawson, an oil rig worker. Their worlds collide when the island of Felloi is magically transported to the mundane world, landing beneath the oil platform. Similar occurrences happen all over the world, but not everyone is as lucky. Dawson volunteers to meet with the 'monsters' as those on the platform ration food and water.
This is a low steam, slow-burning story with some big differences right from the start, language being the main one. I liked the explanation of how the Felloi learn languages, and how it was portrayed in the story. The other differences, such as clothing and customs, were also well written.
Personally, I would have preferred a little more time spent with Dawson and Ul, especially when they were sneaking off together, and after. Apart from moments, it didn't seem as though they actually spent that much time together.
There were also little things, like how Dawson was poisoned. We know where, and we know what with, but how, especially when he never felt it happen, just the aftereffects. That, and with Ul's cousin, felt like an afterthought.
Overall, this was a cute read with some nice characters. 3.5 rounded up.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Nov 21, 2025
This is a low steam, slow-burning story with some big differences right from the start, language being the main one. I liked the explanation of how the Felloi learn languages, and how it was portrayed in the story. The other differences, such as clothing and customs, were also well written.
Personally, I would have preferred a little more time spent with Dawson and Ul, especially when they were sneaking off together, and after. Apart from moments, it didn't seem as though they actually spent that much time together.
There were also little things, like how Dawson was poisoned. We know where, and we know what with, but how, especially when he never felt it happen, just the aftereffects. That, and with Ul's cousin, felt like an afterthought.
Overall, this was a cute read with some nice characters. 3.5 rounded up.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Nov 21, 2025
November 22, 2025
Palaces and Other Prisons is part of the Mytho Collapse series and the mutli-author Tinsel and Tentacles collection. I’m going to put it out there: I never thought I’d read something involving tentacles. Well they do say never say never especially when it comes to TJ Nichols.
A large island has just appeared in the North Sea, right under an oil platform which is now perched some miles from the sea. The story takes place in the direct aftermath of Tarriko's collapse into the Earth. There are two main characters and the story is told from their point of view; Ul and Dawson. Ul is the king of the island kingdom of Felloi and he is a krakke. Dawson is a human employed as a painter on the oil rig/platform. When given the option to leave the platform and negotiate access to food and water he jumps at it and is soon brought into the presence of Ul.
Dawson Hill finds out his main job is to teach the king English and learn XXXX in turn. Falling in love was not mentioned but falling in love is what he does. The same goes for King Ul. That puts them both in a dangerous position as he finds out.
This is a great read with two men from vastly different cultures overcoming language differences and biological differences to find love and avoid dangerous court intrigues as well as keeping their own people safe and well. It provides further insight into the world of Tarriko and its multitude of different races that tend to get on well with each other. Palaces and Other Prisons is a welcome addition to the various Mytho series.
A large island has just appeared in the North Sea, right under an oil platform which is now perched some miles from the sea. The story takes place in the direct aftermath of Tarriko's collapse into the Earth. There are two main characters and the story is told from their point of view; Ul and Dawson. Ul is the king of the island kingdom of Felloi and he is a krakke. Dawson is a human employed as a painter on the oil rig/platform. When given the option to leave the platform and negotiate access to food and water he jumps at it and is soon brought into the presence of Ul.
Dawson Hill finds out his main job is to teach the king English and learn XXXX in turn. Falling in love was not mentioned but falling in love is what he does. The same goes for King Ul. That puts them both in a dangerous position as he finds out.
This is a great read with two men from vastly different cultures overcoming language differences and biological differences to find love and avoid dangerous court intrigues as well as keeping their own people safe and well. It provides further insight into the world of Tarriko and its multitude of different races that tend to get on well with each other. Palaces and Other Prisons is a welcome addition to the various Mytho series.
November 27, 2025
A lovely Mythos extra story
I love the Mythos world stories and I was happy to find out that TJ Nichols had written another story set in this world as part of the Tinsel and Tentacles multi author series.
This is a very sweet story about an island from the Mythological World arriving where an oil platform is in the north sea off England. Human Dawson meets King Ul and things progress from there.
I really enjoyed how TJ Nichols has differences and similarities between the two cultures and there are things like how the Mythos people learn language more by listening to pick it up. This allows them to overcome the language barrier in a way that makes sense. It’s things like this that make this series so interesting and it’s obvious that there has been a lot of thought go into this. I really appreciate when an author makes this kind of effort and doesn’t just opt for an easy magical solution.
The romance is super sweet as these two meet as representatives of their respective cultures and gradually become closer. I liked that even though the king knew that Dawson was a compatible match he never tried to force him into a relationship. All of the aspects of island people is also very well thought out, from sex books to regeneration of limbs to procreation and they add a lot to the story. Although this is set in this world this book is easy to understand as if it were a standalone.
I love the Mythos world stories and I was happy to find out that TJ Nichols had written another story set in this world as part of the Tinsel and Tentacles multi author series.
This is a very sweet story about an island from the Mythological World arriving where an oil platform is in the north sea off England. Human Dawson meets King Ul and things progress from there.
I really enjoyed how TJ Nichols has differences and similarities between the two cultures and there are things like how the Mythos people learn language more by listening to pick it up. This allows them to overcome the language barrier in a way that makes sense. It’s things like this that make this series so interesting and it’s obvious that there has been a lot of thought go into this. I really appreciate when an author makes this kind of effort and doesn’t just opt for an easy magical solution.
The romance is super sweet as these two meet as representatives of their respective cultures and gradually become closer. I liked that even though the king knew that Dawson was a compatible match he never tried to force him into a relationship. All of the aspects of island people is also very well thought out, from sex books to regeneration of limbs to procreation and they add a lot to the story. Although this is set in this world this book is easy to understand as if it were a standalone.
November 23, 2025
Independent reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Dawson finds himself, and the oil rig he is working on, left high and dry and on an island in the middle of the North Sea. Ul is king of the island. He knows something changed. The water tastes different and just what is that thing? Only one thing for it, some first contact. But then Ul's markings glow when he meets Dawson. Ul does not have time, nor the heart for a mate.
I liked this, I liked it a lot but I am left with questions! So many questions my book brain is screaming at me!
It was not really explained what Ul and his people are. I mean, they are called krakke, so some sort of kraken type being is assumed but not really fully explained.
How did Dawson get poisoned?? We know it was done, and when. But that's it.
It's not overly steamy, it's more about Ul and Dawson getting to know each other. Loved how Ul's people learn languages, even if Dawson talked the hind legs off a donkey while Ul learned how to speak English!
Basically, I think, there was some fleshing out needed BUT I really did enjoy this book and I want to read more of what happens during the Collapse, as the humans call it. All sorts of mythical beings are appearing in the human world and I want to read them!
4 very good, if slightly questioning, stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Dawson finds himself, and the oil rig he is working on, left high and dry and on an island in the middle of the North Sea. Ul is king of the island. He knows something changed. The water tastes different and just what is that thing? Only one thing for it, some first contact. But then Ul's markings glow when he meets Dawson. Ul does not have time, nor the heart for a mate.
I liked this, I liked it a lot but I am left with questions! So many questions my book brain is screaming at me!
It was not really explained what Ul and his people are. I mean, they are called krakke, so some sort of kraken type being is assumed but not really fully explained.
How did Dawson get poisoned?? We know it was done, and when. But that's it.
It's not overly steamy, it's more about Ul and Dawson getting to know each other. Loved how Ul's people learn languages, even if Dawson talked the hind legs off a donkey while Ul learned how to speak English!
Basically, I think, there was some fleshing out needed BUT I really did enjoy this book and I want to read more of what happens during the Collapse, as the humans call it. All sorts of mythical beings are appearing in the human world and I want to read them!
4 very good, if slightly questioning, stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
November 24, 2025
Palaces and Other Prisons is part of the Tinsel and Tentacles multi-author series, and while each book can be read as a standalone, I loved the fact TJ contributed with his Mytho world, with Dawson a human stranded when his North Sea oil platform suddenly appears on an island and Ul, the tentacled king of the mythos who inhabit it.
What I loved most about this story is how many obstacles Dawson and Ul have to face, both personally and within the chaotic world around them. The premise alone is brilliant, but the execution is even better: solid action, well-placed steam, and a plot that keeps you invested throughout. The world-building feels vivid and imaginative, and the characters are wonderfully distinct, especially considering how wildly different their backgrounds are.
The previous books I’ve read in this series have all been five-star reads, and this one easily joins them. It’s engaging, inventive, and full of heart. I’d absolutely recommend both this book and the wider series to anyone who enjoys myth, mayhem, and unconventional romance.
I received. free arc copy and this is my honest review
What I loved most about this story is how many obstacles Dawson and Ul have to face, both personally and within the chaotic world around them. The premise alone is brilliant, but the execution is even better: solid action, well-placed steam, and a plot that keeps you invested throughout. The world-building feels vivid and imaginative, and the characters are wonderfully distinct, especially considering how wildly different their backgrounds are.
The previous books I’ve read in this series have all been five-star reads, and this one easily joins them. It’s engaging, inventive, and full of heart. I’d absolutely recommend both this book and the wider series to anyone who enjoys myth, mayhem, and unconventional romance.
I received. free arc copy and this is my honest review
November 25, 2025
The world building in this book is detailed and fascinating. I love the intriguing description of the krakke and their biology, as well as the way the inhabitants of the island learn English. I was really pleased to be able to read the story of the oil platform that was mentioned in previous Mythos books. Dawson was working on that platform when the sea around it disappeared and a strange island appeared under it. I think he was brave to volunteer to liaise with the islanders, in order to get more food and water for the platform workers. He never could have imagined how that would end up for him, as it turned out he was a compatible mate to the king, Ul.
Ul has allowed the palace to become his prison, living for his people but not for himself, until he meets Dawson. Perhaps Dawson will finally be the one to give him a hatchling. The two of them have some complicated decisions to make about their future. They face danger in the form of someone who does not want that future to come about. I was really engaged by this story and read it easily in one sitting.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ul has allowed the palace to become his prison, living for his people but not for himself, until he meets Dawson. Perhaps Dawson will finally be the one to give him a hatchling. The two of them have some complicated decisions to make about their future. They face danger in the form of someone who does not want that future to come about. I was really engaged by this story and read it easily in one sitting.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 25, 2025
TJ Nichol's Palace and Prisons is a double delight. It's part of the multi author Tinsel and Tentacles 3.0 series. And the book is set in the Mytho Collapse world. The North Sea oil rig Dawson was working on and the island kingdom of Felloi collide when the mythological world collapses into the human one. The oil company abandons the rig to it's own resources, and it's soon on the verge of starvation. One of five volunteers to leave the rig, Dawson is brought to the palace of King Ul where the "blue skin squid people" attempt to establish communication. Upon touching the human, Ul realizes Dawson is his mate.
Felloi is an island (pun intended, or not) of peace and acceptance while the rest of the world rages over the mythological people. English and Fellish are learned. Love blooms and there's a bit of danger. The story fits the tentacular brief and it is a gem of a Mythos tale.
A quick and very enjoyable read. There's a bit of timeline difference between the Collapse stories and the Investigation stories. I for one an hoping that TJ Nichol has lots more tales to bridge the two.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook and this is my review.
Felloi is an island (pun intended, or not) of peace and acceptance while the rest of the world rages over the mythological people. English and Fellish are learned. Love blooms and there's a bit of danger. The story fits the tentacular brief and it is a gem of a Mythos tale.
A quick and very enjoyable read. There's a bit of timeline difference between the Collapse stories and the Investigation stories. I for one an hoping that TJ Nichol has lots more tales to bridge the two.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook and this is my review.
December 2, 2025
Palaces and other Prisons is part of the multi-author Tinsel and Tentacles 3.0 series. This book is set in the Mytho Collapse world. Each book is a standalone read. This is the story of Dawson Hill and King Ul. Dawson is human and a painter on the an oil platform in the North Sea. He and all the others on the platform are transported into a new world when an island replaces the North Sea of his oil platform. Ul is the King of all the races living on the island now in the middle of the North Sea. The two meet when the oil rig company sends five people off the rig to speak with the locals as they are running out of food and water. Dawson is taken to the castle with others to meet the King. It is then that an unexpected discovery is made. Dawson and Ul are fated mates. Unable to communicate at first, Dawson slowly teaches the King English so that communication can happen between them. What begins as a friendship slowly evolves into more. This is their story. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from GRR and I am voluntarily leaving a review. This is a cute book and a definite slow burn read. I enjoyed this book.
December 18, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Palaces and Other Prisons is a two-for-one, serving both as part of the annual Tinsel and Tentacles multi-author collection, as well as part of T.J. Nichols’ Mytho Collapse series. The Tinsel and Tentacles books all stand alone, being tied together by tentacles and the holiday season. You should also be able to jump into this one even without being familiar with Mytho Collapse, as the side stories like this one are only loosely linked to the main books. This story takes place concurrently with the most recent series novel, Survival and Other Scars, and the situation with the oil platform is mentioned in that book. But while you won’t have the full depth of world building if you begin here, the basics are all explained and I think new readers can jump in with this book.
I really love the approach Nichols took with this story and I had so much fun with it.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Palaces and Other Prisons is a two-for-one, serving both as part of the annual Tinsel and Tentacles multi-author collection, as well as part of T.J. Nichols’ Mytho Collapse series. The Tinsel and Tentacles books all stand alone, being tied together by tentacles and the holiday season. You should also be able to jump into this one even without being familiar with Mytho Collapse, as the side stories like this one are only loosely linked to the main books. This story takes place concurrently with the most recent series novel, Survival and Other Scars, and the situation with the oil platform is mentioned in that book. But while you won’t have the full depth of world building if you begin here, the basics are all explained and I think new readers can jump in with this book.
I really love the approach Nichols took with this story and I had so much fun with it.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
January 6, 2026
Review for (Mytho Collapse/Tinsel and Tentacles-3) Palace's and other Prisons by TJ Nichols
I am so addicted to TJ Nichols stories. I have some, but there are a lot more I need to read; they are that fantastic at storytelling. Man, if I was working on an oil platform in the sea, then the next thing I know, the oil rig is on an island. So cool, I loved the way this story unfolded. I had compassion for Dawson Hill waking up to all this. I would think I was in a dream because there is no way it is real. Now I would find it so cool to get to meet all the beings that live on this island, but I love anything paranormal lol. Then there is King UI, who has some explaining to do to his people when the oil rig ends up on their island. This story kept me immersed in it, so I would see how TH Nichols would take this story. I felt so lucky to read this book. I always look forward to seeing what TJ Nichols writes next.
Nicole Harvey
I am so addicted to TJ Nichols stories. I have some, but there are a lot more I need to read; they are that fantastic at storytelling. Man, if I was working on an oil platform in the sea, then the next thing I know, the oil rig is on an island. So cool, I loved the way this story unfolded. I had compassion for Dawson Hill waking up to all this. I would think I was in a dream because there is no way it is real. Now I would find it so cool to get to meet all the beings that live on this island, but I love anything paranormal lol. Then there is King UI, who has some explaining to do to his people when the oil rig ends up on their island. This story kept me immersed in it, so I would see how TH Nichols would take this story. I felt so lucky to read this book. I always look forward to seeing what TJ Nichols writes next.
Nicole Harvey
November 24, 2025
field amputation, pointy ears & fangs, metal tentacle bathtub, Noseman, phantom limb, statue fish spine, passport prince
Awesome romantasy book! TJ Nichols nailed another great read. I'm stymied with her colliding 2 worlds and realities so expertly and easily. Her world-building is incredibly imaginative and crafty. I could feel the confusion and frustration of the MCs due to the inability to communicate because of the language barrier. Add to that the not knowing the other each other's culture.
One morning, oil platform crew member Dawson's world is literally tilted. Felloi King Ul goes into emergency mode when he realizes an unpredicted mega-tsunami is coming their way. Both worlds have been massively and irrevocably changed.
I supremely enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
Awesome romantasy book! TJ Nichols nailed another great read. I'm stymied with her colliding 2 worlds and realities so expertly and easily. Her world-building is incredibly imaginative and crafty. I could feel the confusion and frustration of the MCs due to the inability to communicate because of the language barrier. Add to that the not knowing the other each other's culture.
One morning, oil platform crew member Dawson's world is literally tilted. Felloi King Ul goes into emergency mode when he realizes an unpredicted mega-tsunami is coming their way. Both worlds have been massively and irrevocably changed.
I supremely enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
November 9, 2025
Dawson and Ul story was quite interesting with a new tentacled mythological finding his happiness with a human.
It had barrier language that was slowly loosened as they spent time together, politics that quite hindered their time together, betrayal that almost cost their lives, and a fitting punishment for the assailant that wished them harm.
It was a slow burn as they accommodated with the new changes, their duty that kept them apart, insecurities that prevented them from being honest, and all the appearances that needed to be kept.
I wish they spent more time together and to see more of the bundle of joy that eventually joined them to bring them happiness.
* this is an ARC review and is my honest opinion
It had barrier language that was slowly loosened as they spent time together, politics that quite hindered their time together, betrayal that almost cost their lives, and a fitting punishment for the assailant that wished them harm.
It was a slow burn as they accommodated with the new changes, their duty that kept them apart, insecurities that prevented them from being honest, and all the appearances that needed to be kept.
I wish they spent more time together and to see more of the bundle of joy that eventually joined them to bring them happiness.
* this is an ARC review and is my honest opinion
November 22, 2025
This is a side story to TJ’s Mytho Collapse series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. You don’t need to have read the series to read this.
King Ul’s island has appeared on earth, in the same location as an oil rig. Being secluded in the North Sea, no one knows what’s happened, but with no sign of the mainland getting to them any time soon, humans and mythologicals must figure out how to communicate and live together.
King Ul is a kind man carrying the weight of his people and his past losses on his shoulders. When he meets rig worker Dawson, who acts as an emissary, sparks fly (or rather skin glows).
I love the journey of all of them trying to figure their way through this, learning their languages, and discovering their feelings. It was tender and hopeful.
King Ul’s island has appeared on earth, in the same location as an oil rig. Being secluded in the North Sea, no one knows what’s happened, but with no sign of the mainland getting to them any time soon, humans and mythologicals must figure out how to communicate and live together.
King Ul is a kind man carrying the weight of his people and his past losses on his shoulders. When he meets rig worker Dawson, who acts as an emissary, sparks fly (or rather skin glows).
I love the journey of all of them trying to figure their way through this, learning their languages, and discovering their feelings. It was tender and hopeful.
November 22, 2025
Yes!!! I have long admired this author’s skill at world building. The beauty of how each story not only makes the world more complex but they also build on each other. I remember Noah from the previous books mentioning the oil platform. It was so cool to get to read about it here. That’s another thing I love about this author. The consistency with even small details makes me feel like I am there. I hope we get more details on how things are going for Ul and Dawson as we get more books in this series. I highly recommend reading the series as well as the others the author has written. Even without magic they are a magical experience.
November 23, 2025
If you had asked me a few weeks ago if I would read a book like this the answer would have been no. Somebody recommended this series to me and I was like well it's not normally something I read but if they really liked it I trust this person so I'm going to give it a try. Wow I have been blown away by this series. I really love the characters in this book. They just stole my heart. The storyline was so good. I don't know if it is because it is something new and different for me because I found it so exciting or if it's this author but I'm definitely going to dive into more of what this author writes because I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it.
March 28, 2026
"Palaces and Other Prisons" received FOUR stars.
Enjoyed this one!
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
* gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
Enjoyed this one!
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
* gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
November 24, 2025
Thank you for the book; here is my honest opinion:
3.5⭐️This was quite the complicated romance for Ul and Dawson, very plot heavy and with wonderfully detailed world building. The author delivers on political intrigue, complicated family strife, and cross cultural exchanges - all done skillfully. For me, I was missing time to develop the romance between Ul and Dawson. I liked these characters but their relationship while well done, felt more in the background. Great world building though and the writing is very engaging.
3.5⭐️This was quite the complicated romance for Ul and Dawson, very plot heavy and with wonderfully detailed world building. The author delivers on political intrigue, complicated family strife, and cross cultural exchanges - all done skillfully. For me, I was missing time to develop the romance between Ul and Dawson. I liked these characters but their relationship while well done, felt more in the background. Great world building though and the writing is very engaging.
November 24, 2025
Dawson works on an oil rig that inhabitants in the sea feel is interfering with their well-being. He wakes up to find himself on the rig but not at sea, on an island. This is where he meets Ul who is trying to get to the bottom of the problem and was not expecting that when Dawson emerged from his space that Ul would be meeting his mate. Their relationship slowly progresses as they work through their communication divide and find their way through this situation to one another. Imaginative and there were tentacles!
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 27, 2025
Sweet story for Mythos community.
I really enjoyed this story. I was a positive event during a terrible time of loss and fear. Showing the humans that in the past they were a very important part of the mythos community and of King Ul's people. It showed them that the mythos people celebrated a Yuletide and the solstice celebration that is not so different from the human holiday celebrations. Including the birth of a child that heralded a new beginning. I definitely recommend this Audio. Another great performance by Roberto Scarlato
I really enjoyed this story. I was a positive event during a terrible time of loss and fear. Showing the humans that in the past they were a very important part of the mythos community and of King Ul's people. It showed them that the mythos people celebrated a Yuletide and the solstice celebration that is not so different from the human holiday celebrations. Including the birth of a child that heralded a new beginning. I definitely recommend this Audio. Another great performance by Roberto Scarlato
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2025
I haven’t read much of the Mythos world or its follow up of the collapse, but I am often a sucker for a tentacle story. Pun intended, sort of. Ul wasn’t looking for a mate when Dawson arrived with the others from the metal box on their island, but that was exactly what he got. This is a good story and is totally readable on its own. They are both busy trying to learn each other’s language and about each other while navigating a world that is changing around them.
November 18, 2025
I was a little hesitant starting this book afraid that the world building might be confusing. I have never been so happy to be wrong. This book was amazing from the first page to the last.
I LOVED this story and am so sad it’s over. Ul and Dawson were so sweet and lovable. Their romance was beautiful to watch.
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews and TJ Nicols for the advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
5.0 ⭐️
I LOVED this story and am so sad it’s over. Ul and Dawson were so sweet and lovable. Their romance was beautiful to watch.
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews and TJ Nicols for the advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
5.0 ⭐️
November 21, 2025
My first love on an oil rig romance! I enjoyed the complete uniqueness of the story and situation Dawson found himself in. The creatures on the island included UI who was drawn to Dawson straightaway. They were technically on different sides. I loved watching Dawson and UI reach beyond the communication barrier and become so close. This was actually a sweet slow burn romance with great world building.
November 23, 2025
Mythological creatures, fated mates
Dawson is a painter on an oil rig.
Something strange happens and they're now on an island with kraken.
King Ul is the leader of his people and is desperate to find a way to help his people.
There's danger as political machinations behind the scenes put everything and everyone in danger.
Despite the tenuous situation, both find themselves falling in love and must resolve the situation in order to find their HEA.
Dawson is a painter on an oil rig.
Something strange happens and they're now on an island with kraken.
King Ul is the leader of his people and is desperate to find a way to help his people.
There's danger as political machinations behind the scenes put everything and everyone in danger.
Despite the tenuous situation, both find themselves falling in love and must resolve the situation in order to find their HEA.
November 24, 2025
Ul is a sweet king swimming in new and strange waters. Dawson is a very strong human willing to go out of his comfort zone in order to help his coworkers and the new people he meets.
Forced to be together in order to understand each other, they feel a connection, but not everybody is happy with it, so they must endure prejudices, fears and betrayals.
We have some tentacle action, but the book is more sweet than spicy, it's well written and an easy read.
I recommend it!
Forced to be together in order to understand each other, they feel a connection, but not everybody is happy with it, so they must endure prejudices, fears and betrayals.
We have some tentacle action, but the book is more sweet than spicy, it's well written and an easy read.
I recommend it!
November 25, 2025
Dawson’s life on an oil rig takes a wild turn when he suddenly wakes up on a mysterious island instead of the open sea.
There, he crosses paths with UI, who’s investigating the disruption and certainly didn’t expect to meet his mate. As they try to understand each other and the strange circumstances around them, their bond slowly deepens.
The story is inventive, full of surprises and of course, tentacles. Their story is a delicious slow burn that not even a language barrier could stop.
There, he crosses paths with UI, who’s investigating the disruption and certainly didn’t expect to meet his mate. As they try to understand each other and the strange circumstances around them, their bond slowly deepens.
The story is inventive, full of surprises and of course, tentacles. Their story is a delicious slow burn that not even a language barrier could stop.
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