Sire, Oleander isn't dead! [Yet]

by T.I. Avens, Adrian DKC (Illustrator)

A slayer in danger of being slain.

The life of a Tumultbriar is a tough one. It’s a life of trekking hundreds of miles to save villages while dealing with weariness as monster blood clings to your hair and boots. It’s lifting longswords till your arms feel like jelly, and slaying beasts till you feel like fainting. It’s this life, combined with the weight of upholding the family beast-slaying legacy, that leads Oleander Tumultbriar to make a deadly mistake; take a shortcut by using a potion to slay a beast.

But when the slain beast returns from the grave in search of vengeance Oleander realizes he’s been cursed…and by his own doing! As he rushes to fix his mistake he turns to the only one who can help him, his most trusted friend Marlow.

But Marlow is harboring a dark secret, one which may be the key to saving Oleander, but comes at a cost if shared. She’ll have to choose between destroying her friendship or risk losing her best friend all together.

Time is ticking for Oleander to lift his curse or face a fate worse than death — the fury of the undead.

234 pages, Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 2026

About the author

T.I. Avens is an author from Northern California who specializes in writing middle-grade fantasy books full of odd creatures, unexpected heroes, and magic-filled lands. She is also the author of the Spindleheart series. When she's not writing, Avens enjoys yoga, taking care of her plants, gaming, and baking.

Reviews

[Rosh (is back & catching up slowly!) · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a Nutshell: A middle-grade fantasy about two friends caught in big trouble. Interesting fantastical characters, but too many of them to remember easily. Nice plot, but develops slow. Creative world-building, though the sizes of the inhabitants were tough to judge. Not as comic as the title and cover seem to suggest. Slightly dark storyline that includes curses and zombies. Recommended but go in with the right expectations to enjoy this better.

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Plot Preview: (I have gone far beyond the initial 10-15% in my preview this time because the story is quite slow-moving at the start.)

Oleander is a young slayer who feels the pressure of upholding his family legacy of killing monstrous beasts while protecting his guild. Once, he makes an error in judgement and opts for a shortcut solution by using a potion to kill a beast. This mistake turns out to be deadly [pun intended], for the beast is now undead and returns for vengeance on Oleander. The only person who can help him fix this mistake is his best friend Marlow. But unknown to Oleander, Marlow is harbouring a dark secret of her own. If she reveals her secret, she might save Oleander but could forever destroy their friendship. Can the two fix Oleander’s error without endangering their lives and their friendship?
The story comes to us in the alternating first-person perspectives of Oleander and Marlow.

Bookish Yays:
🐦 Oleander. An interesting lead who isn't shown as perfect but as striving for perfection. His behaviour creates a lot of learning opportunities.

🐦 The friendship between Oleander and Marlow, and some more members of the guild of slayers. It’s almost like found family, except that the group also bickers without hesitation.

🐦 The depiction of how the pressure of familial expectations can lead to unwarranted stress and impulsive decisions. Growing up with a legacy isn't easy.

🐦 The imaginativeness of the characters’ identities. I love that the slayers are portly larks. 😅


Bookish Okays:
⚔ Marlow. A fab character and I did love her a lot. But she lied too often for my comfort, and she got away with it most of the times. Some of her reasons for lying are understandable but I wish the instances hadn’t been so frequent.

⚔ The illustrations, though cute, are minimal and are present only in the chapter heads. I wish there had been more plot-related illustrations as well, especially ones that could help us picture the characters. I must add, the map at the start is wonderfully intricate.

⚔ The title is amazing, but I don’t think it suits the story perfectly. I don’t know if this is just a me-thing, but I expected a more humorous story because of the title (and cover.) 🤔 However, the plot is mostly serious and at times, even dark and/or sad. Some parts might be a bit too dark for younger middle-graders.


Bookish Nays:
🐉 The slow development of the plot. There’s barely anything happening in the first quarter of the book, and even beyond, the action takes time to develop. The final quarter is full of action and big reveals. A more balanced spread would have been preferable, especially considering the low attention span of youngsters these days.

🐉 The needless complication caused by having way too many new characters, too many subspecies, too many fancy uncommon names (of characters and species), too many concocted new words. Some characters’ species are referred to by multiple variants. All this made it very difficult to keep track of who’s who and who’s what. After a point, I gave up on figuring out the individual identities and just went with the flow. Middle-graders might find the species vocabulary challenging.

🐉 The difficulty in visualising certain elements of the plot, specifically related to the main characters and the monsters they fight. Given the cover, it is tough to imagine how such tiny beings can easily push over larger monsters. Even the relative difference between two characters’ heights is tricky to understand. I wish the character heights/sizes had been detailed better or presented via the illustrations.


Overall, while I liked the overall plot and the unusual characters, I wish the extraneous elements had been chucked away and the pacing (especially in the first half) improved. The story contains several important themes, but because there are too many characters and identities to keep track of, the themes get a bit lost in the clutter.

This is officially tagged as a middle-grade fantasy. However, given the nature of the content and some of the themes, I am not sure about advocating it to that age group wholeheartedly. I think this would have been a great YA book with some tweaking in the cover and content. The themes are dark enough to be palatable to that age group, and the cutesiness evident on the cover is anyway non-existent in the plot.

Recommended to teens (11+) who enjoy darker stories with quirky characters and don’t mind slow pacing or too many characters.

3.25 stars.


My thanks to author T.I. Avens and Over The Tall Shelf for providing the DRC of “Sire, Oleander isn't dead! (Yet)” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

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I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.

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Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||

[Linnea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The author also speficied on the preface that the book will still undergo edits so I have not read a finalised version.

Sire, Oleander Isn’t Dead! (Yet) was a somewhat strange yet captivating read. T.I. Avens’ book follows young swatchtail Marlow with a big secret and danditroll Oleander who is expected to earn his place as a significant slayer. The two forge a friendship that is being tried once a curse is cast and secrets start to unfold.

This wasn’t the easiest book to get into since in the beginning there is a lot of new terms to learn and quite a lot of explaining of how this and that creature looks like. I do appreciate originality, but at first it was quite a lot for me trying to remember all the new creatures and their specifics. There is also quite a lot of characters to remember and that was a bit hard for me at times, too.

Sire, Oleander Isn’t Dead! (Yet) is a strange book, since the main characters are incredibly cute and fluffy critters yet there is plenty of rather straightforward violence and darker themes. It is categorised as a middlegrade book and that caused me some trouble since the mix of CUTE and oh dear that is horrible was a peculiar mix. The cute character design are fit for younger children but the violence not so much.

The writing itself, however, is very fluent and the pacing of the story was very good and the ending did not feel rushed. In the end I was very invested in the adventure of Marlow, Oleander and their friends so I would say this book won me over. I am still a bit unsure of who (or which age group) to recommend this to, but it still was a very good book.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably one of the best middle grade fantasy books I've read recently. Oleander is such a likeable, conflicted main character. Wanted to wrap him in cuddles all the time. So much family pressure. Something I personally resonated with.

And his besties Marlow and Hazel were so different from each other yet they cared for the cursed Danditroll so deeply. Marlow is curious while Hazel is cautious. Friendships are built and destroyed as Oleander goes to enemy territory to find peace.

The use of nature as a setting and lore fit perfectly. Kept imagining 𝘿𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙂𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙚 sized forests and trees. Not everything landed for the adventurers in the moment but the arcs made sense in the end.

For fantasy fans with active imaginations, this is a must read. I'd put this up at maybe 10-11 age range. So many incidents match the shift from being someone's kid to discovering their own needs. Definitely higher fantasy in the animals and battles.

Thank you to Netgalley, Over the Tall Shelf, and T.I. Avens for a copy. This was truly a delight.

[ฅ^•⩊•^ฅ · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I feel like the author is somewhat overlooked and doesn’t get the recognition she truly deserves. After reading Sire Oleander Isn’t Dead Yet, I can honestly say it’s a wonderful book, and it makes me believe that her other works must be just as special.

I genuinely loved this as an adult, which says a lot. I can only imagine how much more I would have adored it if I had read it as a child. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to pick up her other series called Spindleheart. I had seen them on Netgalley at some point, but I missed my chance to get them.

What stood out to me the most was the writing and the world-building. The setting felt vivid and immersive, from the forest to the cities, and even the long-standing feud between the families added an extra layer of depth to the story. I also loved that the main characters are animals. It gave the whole book a magical and lively feeling. At times, it almost felt like watching the board game Root come to life. Not in terms of plot, but definitely in terms of atmosphere.

Another thing I appreciate is that the story can appeal to everyone. With both a male and a female main character, it’s easy for any reader to find someone to connect with. The characters themselves were all memorable in their own way. Each one brought something different to the group, whether it was strength, impulsiveness, humour, or loyalty. No one felt unnecessary. They all had a role and contributed to the story in a meaningful way.

Finally, the message of the book is simple but impactful. If you’d rather go in completely blind, you might want to skip this part, although I wouldn’t consider it a major spoiler. At its core, the story is about appreciating the small, everyday moments in life, your friends, your hobbies, and the time you spend with the people who matter. It reminds you that chasing recognition isn’t everything and that sometimes, just living and enjoying what you have is enough. It also highlights something really important: family isn’t only the people you’re born into, but also the friends who make your problems feel smaller and your happiness feel twice as big. In the end, life is short, and you never truly know how much time you have, so it’s worth appreciating it while you can.

One last thing worth mentioning is that the illustrations are gorgeous, but it would be better if the author had included illustrations of the beasts, too.

[Mark Buxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What worked:
The opening chapter introduces Marlow and leaves readers with a couple of significant questions. She is living with a guardian, so readers will wonder what’s happened to her parents. While delivering messages, she is saved by slayers, and readers are introduced to Oleander. However, later, Marlow’s guardian asks if the slayers recognized who she really is, and Marlow says they did not. What is her true identity, and why doesn’t she want anyone to know? Marlow has a complicated history, and her secret is a major focus during the book’s second half.
In the next chapters, readers learn about Oleander’s pressure-filled life. His mother is highly demanding, and she won’t accept that he’s not giving full effort at all times. She shows him a room honoring his family’s heritage, and renowned heroes highlight every generation. Oleander’s mother says he will be a footnote, forgotten forever, if he slacks off for even a moment. Her pressure causes Oleander to take risks, and he pushes Squallsong, the guild he leads, to go on non-stop missions. Oleander uses a poisoned blade to kill difficult wilders, but it has unexpected results. The creatures return from the dead and will continue to do so until they get vengeance against Oleander. Marlow notices a magical aura around her friend, but revealing her observation will give away her secret.
Marlow struggles with a family situation that causes complications and expectations that she can’t handle. In addition, the other slayers in Oleander’s guild have trouble with his leadership, and they choose to follow someone else. Oleander reflects on his life path and must make hard decisions about his future. Oleander and Marlow find support and understanding in each other, but Marlow’s secret may fracture their relationship.
What didn’t work as well:
There are numerous fictional monsters, and it can be challenging to visualize them. The story includes brief descriptions, but matching their names from memory is tricky. A glossary or collection of illustrations would help.
The final verdict:
Young readers will enjoy the adventures of Oleander and Marlow, and the endless stream of dangerous wilders creates suspense and fighting scenes. I recommend you try this book for yourself.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sire, Oleander isn't Dead! (Yet) is a middle-grade adventure focusing on responsibility, friendship, and courage. The illustrations are precious, though I wish there were more, and the overall flow of the text is very suited to its intended audience.

I think for an older child with competent reading skills, this book is a hit. But for younger kids, or those who are already struggling, it might a bit difficult to keep up with everything. Illustrations for the wilders, and a glossary might go a long way to making it more accessible.
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Children's literature covers a wide age range, and while middle-grade narrows it down a bit I realized there's still quite a distance between 8 and 12 years old in relation to comprehension. I was hoping this would be a book to read aloud to kids, but within the first several pages I was met with at least 5 characters and it very quickly became a book to just read in my head. Which is ok! Not my original plan, but there are plenty of other options for that.

A common issue I find in adult fantasy books is the tendency to introduce a deluge of story-specific terms, and unfortunately that was the case here too:

In the first 2 chapters I highlighted 20 new words, with no glossary in sight. As an adult, the initial context for species is easy enough, however, keeping the description in my head the further I read along was a bit more of a chore. Place and family names will always be my nemesis, but suddenly I had to add species too! (Swatchtail, blood-eyed bobbin, Mulchthicket, red-tangle, wilder and lark as a designation, danditroll, needlewisk, battwik, badgerpine, mettlescourge, Beechsprig, Tumultbriar, pikeapen...etc)

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity

[Samaria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t expect Sire, Oleander Isn’t Dead! (Yet) to grab my attention the way it did, but it turned out to be a surprisingly engaging read. At its core, it follows a familiar adventure structure, a young monster slayer reckoning with the consequences of a mistake, yet it carries enough personality to feel fresh and enjoyable.

What stood out most was how easy it was to sink into the story. The writing stays simple and direct, which works in its favor, keeping the focus on the journey and the relationships rather than getting lost in heavy exposition. The pacing is especially strong, and I ended up reading it in one sitting because it stayed consistently engaging from beginning to end.

Still, that simplicity is also part of its charm. It never tries to be more than what it is, an adventure with heart, humor, and a clear focus on choices and consequences. It feels honest in that way.

Overall, this is a solid middle grade fantasy read. It is fast paced, accessible, and carries just enough emotional weight to keep it from feeling shallow. It leaves a strong impression and is one I would confidently recommend, especially for younger readers like my little sister. Super fun, magical read.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so excited for the two upcoming projects, Sire Oleander and a space one in August.

If the author's previous duology is a big compromise, and you haven't read this author, then try this shorter novel Sire, Oleander isn't Dead (Yet), it is a great companion adventure to this world that showcases well the humor and creative quest adventure of the author, with the best friendship and values. I'm collecting them all, the covers are very beautiful, and I can't resist an animal/fantasy creatures character adventure.

4.5 Sire Oleander is hilarious and adventurous. Oleander belongs to a Slayer Guild, and they don't want their members to be a footnote in History. They want them to be the main legendary events. He prefers to read books with his friend Marlow, a courier and a great friend. He tries to go around and find a shortcut by slaying monsters with a potion, but he misreads the label, and instead of killing them faster, it makes them undead. Now he's cursed, and they have to go on a quest to fix it all. Great action scenes, starts slow, but I like the rhythm of this author. Self-discovery and friendship.
P.S I am definitely a Danditroll in this world because I too celebrate birthdays in four parts, and it lasts more than one day.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sire, Oleander Isn’t Dead! (Yet) is a cozy story demonstrating the courage to protect one’s village while making choices to stand with a friend who finds themselves in a bit of trouble. Oleander is a guild leader from the Tumultbriar who makes a poor choice and finds himself cursed as a result. He needs to find a cure otherwise face the same fate as the creature he killed. He travels to the home of his dear friend, Marlow, and two additional guild companions and a grave keeper. During their harrowing trek, Oleander discovers that his best friend’s family has a history with his own, and the discovery may seal the fate of Oleander’s quest for a cure.

Although the book is listed as a middle grade read, I personally would expect this book to be suitable for 8 to 10 year olds who are not bothered with minor descriptions of death and sword fighting amongst forest creatures. There is a distinct lesson on making good choices and being true to one’s self and friends. Telling the truth is never easy, but Oleander has not taken the easy way out, and with help from his friends (new and old) he may just be able to be successful in his epic trek to new lands.

[Galatée · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a cute little story !
This is a brilliant introduction to fantasy for kids around 8 years old and above.
I love the friendship between Oleander and Marlow : it has a great development and I felt so involved.
The plot is surprising although a bit slow to really start.
The worldbuilding is light but clever and that is perfect for children.

A last word for the cover and the illustrations : it is such an amazing bonus ! I loved it !

Thank you to the author, NetGalley and everyone involved for this ARC. I would gladly recommend this book to children.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sire, Oleander Isn’t Dead! (Yet) is a wonderful book. It is very well written with a cast of interesting characters, set in a well developed fantastical world. The messages woven into the plot are thoughtful and relevant to the young audience. The illustrations are really well done. I would have liked additional drawings of the monsters featured throughout.

Overall, this is a very fun, well written fantasy adventure for all ages.

Thank you to NetGalley for access to an e-arc.

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun read! I really enjoy children's and YA books as a break from adult and romantasy sometimes and this one was amazing!

I absolutely adored the main characters and was addicted to the plot. There were so many twists that i wasn't expecting and yet it was still fun and fluffy!