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The Boy From Elsewhere
One Town. Two Worlds. No Way Home.
A boy washes up on the beach of a quiet seaside town, soaked, shaken, and wearing nothing but pyjamas. He insists he's from here, but the whole place feels... not quite right.
Then he meets David, a stranger who offers to help. What begins as an act of kindness soon becomes something far stranger. Questions multiply, and a chain of events set in motion centuries ago tightens its grip on the present.
Drawn into a secretive world of hidden histories and dangerous foes, David gathers an unlikely band of allies to uncover the truth and get their new friend back elsewhere. But some doors were never meant to open, and when they do, reality itself begins to unravel.
The Boy From Elsewhere is a gripping story of parallel worlds, found family, and the terrifying courage it takes to hold on to the people you love when the universe itself is trying to pull you apart.
A boy washes up on the beach of a quiet seaside town, soaked, shaken, and wearing nothing but pyjamas. He insists he's from here, but the whole place feels... not quite right.
Then he meets David, a stranger who offers to help. What begins as an act of kindness soon becomes something far stranger. Questions multiply, and a chain of events set in motion centuries ago tightens its grip on the present.
Drawn into a secretive world of hidden histories and dangerous foes, David gathers an unlikely band of allies to uncover the truth and get their new friend back elsewhere. But some doors were never meant to open, and when they do, reality itself begins to unravel.
The Boy From Elsewhere is a gripping story of parallel worlds, found family, and the terrifying courage it takes to hold on to the people you love when the universe itself is trying to pull you apart.
356 pages, Paperback
Published February 6, 2026
2 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Kestral Gaian
5 books25 followersKestral Gaian is an author, poet, and playwright whose work refuses to sit neatly inside a box. Their writing inhabits the places where genres overlap and come undone: the personal and the political, the digital and the human, the soft and the furious. Kestral’s work is defined by a deep belief that stories can help us practise being better humans. Or at least weirder, kinder ones.
Kestral's background is wide ranging, from psychotherapy to technology to community activism, and this diversity infuses their art. Audiences and readers often describe being moved not just by what Kestral writes, but by how it feels to inhabit the worlds they create: playful, thoughtful, deeply human.
Whether writing poetry, plays, lyrics, or fiction, Kestral Gaian is committed to work that challenges, delights, and endures. Their voice is one of defiance and tenderness, of systems questioned, and of
humanity held close.
Kestral's background is wide ranging, from psychotherapy to technology to community activism, and this diversity infuses their art. Audiences and readers often describe being moved not just by what Kestral writes, but by how it feels to inhabit the worlds they create: playful, thoughtful, deeply human.
Whether writing poetry, plays, lyrics, or fiction, Kestral Gaian is committed to work that challenges, delights, and endures. Their voice is one of defiance and tenderness, of systems questioned, and of
humanity held close.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 15, 2026
I was lucky enough to attend the book launch for The Boy From Elsewhere and was asked to pick a quote that best represented my experience while reading. I chose one that stated it was a book teenage me needed and it couldn’t be more true. Never fully feeling like I fit in and being part of the LGBTQ+ other than a few close friends and family I always felt a bit odd. This is the kind of book that is a must read for teens, young adults and even adults who may have ever felt this way. It offers hope and more importantly champions queer stories by focusing on how easy it is to normalise them. I don’t want to spoil anything but for example the ease in which Kestral writes their trans characters was so heartwarming, particularly with the vitriol the trans community continues to face from media and those in power. I could spend hours praising each aspect like this but I will try to keep it shorter. Needless to say I adore those aspects.
The characters themselves are all fantastic, I have to say that my favourite was probably Ellie but it’s hard to pick just one since I loved them all. I think this all came down to the writing which really allowed each character to shine, of course it helped that we had point of view chapters for the characters, but I would challenge anyone to read this book and not get attached to one, if not all of the characters. On top of this I loved that while there is an obvious science fiction and fantasy element, Kestrel has grounded this in the real world. This for me not only helped with immersion but also helped the believability of the story overall. You could really imagine the places and what was happening since it is grounded in reality.
Now I went into this knowing it was book one and I will say that I was not expecting to be so angry and frustrated (in a good way) and buzzing with excitement for the next book. Ending on a cliffhanger is normally a pet peeve of mine - from the age old 60’s Batman series to books I am not a patient person and waiting makes me nervous and frustrated. However I am giving Kestral a pass, one because I got a rough idea of when to expect book two at the launch and two because it’s so bloody good that I can probably re-read it at least once before then. I do still need to know what happens NOW though but I will try and curve my excitement until book two.
If you are looking for a book that has brilliant representation, brilliant writing and characters you wish you were friends with you need to read this book now!
As always thank you to Literally PR for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
The characters themselves are all fantastic, I have to say that my favourite was probably Ellie but it’s hard to pick just one since I loved them all. I think this all came down to the writing which really allowed each character to shine, of course it helped that we had point of view chapters for the characters, but I would challenge anyone to read this book and not get attached to one, if not all of the characters. On top of this I loved that while there is an obvious science fiction and fantasy element, Kestrel has grounded this in the real world. This for me not only helped with immersion but also helped the believability of the story overall. You could really imagine the places and what was happening since it is grounded in reality.
Now I went into this knowing it was book one and I will say that I was not expecting to be so angry and frustrated (in a good way) and buzzing with excitement for the next book. Ending on a cliffhanger is normally a pet peeve of mine - from the age old 60’s Batman series to books I am not a patient person and waiting makes me nervous and frustrated. However I am giving Kestral a pass, one because I got a rough idea of when to expect book two at the launch and two because it’s so bloody good that I can probably re-read it at least once before then. I do still need to know what happens NOW though but I will try and curve my excitement until book two.
If you are looking for a book that has brilliant representation, brilliant writing and characters you wish you were friends with you need to read this book now!
As always thank you to Literally PR for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I haven’t seen time/dimension travel invented so far in the past before, and it gives is an almost mystical air, which I thought was great. Also, Britain uses euros? So cool. I do wish the book went more into detail about the other world, but at the same time, I also get that the worlds aren’t that different at the first glance, so Joshua would just assume that it’s the same as in his world. I would have loved to see the main characters discuss in detail the aspects of their worlds that diverged. Anyway, from little worldbuilding that this book does provide, it seems like the parallel universe is meant to be slightly better than our world in almost every way (majority of cars being electric, no prejudice against trans people, etc), which I find annoying. I feel like the author had the opportunity to make it so much more interesting, but they just didn’t.
I wasn’t a huge fan of how how the book falls into a lot cliches. I feel like I’ve seen an extremely intelligent, enthusiastic little sister a hundred times already, for example. Or the fainting from magical powers. Also, I hate how stereotypically evil the main villain of this book is when the setting is modern England. If he had magical powers, I’d excuse it, but he’s just a normal guy. Who the hell does he think he is? He has no business acting like he does, and his lines make me cringe so hard. In addition, I feel like the characters make choices that make no sense sometimes. Why is David inviting a random guy he just met to his house?
Despite it’s shortcomings, I thought the book was enjoyable to read, and the light writing style really makes pages fly by. At least it wasn’t boring. I also liked that there were quite a few queer characters in the book. I’m interested in what the author will do in the next part of the story and I’m hoping that it will answer the questions that this book left me with. The series definitely has potential in my opinion.
I wasn’t a huge fan of how how the book falls into a lot cliches. I feel like I’ve seen an extremely intelligent, enthusiastic little sister a hundred times already, for example. Or the fainting from magical powers. Also, I hate how stereotypically evil the main villain of this book is when the setting is modern England. If he had magical powers, I’d excuse it, but he’s just a normal guy. Who the hell does he think he is? He has no business acting like he does, and his lines make me cringe so hard. In addition, I feel like the characters make choices that make no sense sometimes. Why is David inviting a random guy he just met to his house?
Despite it’s shortcomings, I thought the book was enjoyable to read, and the light writing style really makes pages fly by. At least it wasn’t boring. I also liked that there were quite a few queer characters in the book. I’m interested in what the author will do in the next part of the story and I’m hoping that it will answer the questions that this book left me with. The series definitely has potential in my opinion.
February 10, 2026
I devoured The Boy From Elsewhere in two days. It is one of those books that made you think but allows you to stay within the story and within the world the Gaian created. I loved the scifi elements of the book and how well researched the science and history of the book were. As you will find, Ellie wouldn't have it any other way.
Joshua is physically displaced in this book, but he is not the only one. The main characters are authentic and complex, and the book is filled with those uncomfortable and awkward moments when you like someone and you don't know if it's reciprocated, or my favorite, the moments between Jayce and David, where you meet someone who expects you to be who you were rather than who you have become. So awkward. So good.
In a literary landscape where it seems "more is more" for many books in terms of romantic action, The Boy From Elsewhere reminds us of the thrill of a touch, and how, even when the world may in fact be ending, whether or not that touch was intentional can still be the most important thing. Jane Austen would be proud.
The villain, at moments, comes across like the mustache twirling, tie the damsel down to the tracks kind of villain. But there are no damsels here that need saving, except maybe Joshua. Sorry, Joshua. There are also no superheroes here (supernerds, yes); this is a book about people and who people can become when they don't allow their past to dictate their future (and who people can become when they do).
This is a book about self-discovery and the possibilities and dangers of unchecked curiosity. I had questions; I always wanted to know more. While I wish we learned more about Joshua's world, I imagine there is much more to be revealed in the next book. It was with great joy that I read the last three words: To Be Continued.
Joshua is physically displaced in this book, but he is not the only one. The main characters are authentic and complex, and the book is filled with those uncomfortable and awkward moments when you like someone and you don't know if it's reciprocated, or my favorite, the moments between Jayce and David, where you meet someone who expects you to be who you were rather than who you have become. So awkward. So good.
In a literary landscape where it seems "more is more" for many books in terms of romantic action, The Boy From Elsewhere reminds us of the thrill of a touch, and how, even when the world may in fact be ending, whether or not that touch was intentional can still be the most important thing. Jane Austen would be proud.
The villain, at moments, comes across like the mustache twirling, tie the damsel down to the tracks kind of villain. But there are no damsels here that need saving, except maybe Joshua. Sorry, Joshua. There are also no superheroes here (supernerds, yes); this is a book about people and who people can become when they don't allow their past to dictate their future (and who people can become when they do).
This is a book about self-discovery and the possibilities and dangers of unchecked curiosity. I had questions; I always wanted to know more. While I wish we learned more about Joshua's world, I imagine there is much more to be revealed in the next book. It was with great joy that I read the last three words: To Be Continued.
February 18, 2026
The Boy from Elsewhere is a YA story that mixes sci-fi, romance, and a touch of fantasy. The author has clearly researched the locations well, with historical intrigue and a storyline set over differing timeframes, weaving in Oxford, St Pancras and the British library as locations, and history that I wasn’t aware of. These settings, combined with historical elements I wasn’t previously familiar with, add depth and intrigue to the story as it unfolds.
Ellie was a standout character for me. Although young. she’s smart, curious, and keen to be involved rather than being overprotected by her very loving family. Her safe and welcoming home life really shapes who she is, and I appreciated that her transgender status isn’t treated as the thing that defines her character.
I also loved how food is used throughout the book, from Joshua trying new foods, such as marmite in an unfamiliar universe, to the shared family meals that add warmth and a real sense of connection.
The romance between David and Joshua sits nicely alongside the main mystery instead of taking it over. David’s coming out and growing understanding of his sexuality feels natural and well handled, without leaning into stereotypes that often feature in the YA books I have previously read.
The story starts strong, though the ending felt a little rushed as the sci-fi elements became more prominent. It does end on a cliff hanger, though, and I’m definitely interested to see where the story goes next.
I was also lucky enough to attend the PR launch at the British Library, one of the book’s key locations, which made reading it even more enjoyable.
Many thanks to Literally PR and the author for inviting me to the book launch and providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Ellie was a standout character for me. Although young. she’s smart, curious, and keen to be involved rather than being overprotected by her very loving family. Her safe and welcoming home life really shapes who she is, and I appreciated that her transgender status isn’t treated as the thing that defines her character.
I also loved how food is used throughout the book, from Joshua trying new foods, such as marmite in an unfamiliar universe, to the shared family meals that add warmth and a real sense of connection.
The romance between David and Joshua sits nicely alongside the main mystery instead of taking it over. David’s coming out and growing understanding of his sexuality feels natural and well handled, without leaning into stereotypes that often feature in the YA books I have previously read.
The story starts strong, though the ending felt a little rushed as the sci-fi elements became more prominent. It does end on a cliff hanger, though, and I’m definitely interested to see where the story goes next.
I was also lucky enough to attend the PR launch at the British Library, one of the book’s key locations, which made reading it even more enjoyable.
Many thanks to Literally PR and the author for inviting me to the book launch and providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 19, 2026
Maybe 2.5⭐️ honestly... It wasn't bad? It just wasn't that good either? It took a while for this story to get going, and when it finally did it began to move far too fast, making the final confrontation feel rushed and anticlimactic. The initial mission completely failed, which ultimately made their group trip and dramatic scuffle feel pitifully unnecessary. If the world jumper was always going to give up and stay, probably a positive as he seems to have nothing going for him in his own world and has now made two friends and gained a romantic partner, why go on a search to get him back home? One that leads to weird ancestors, violent clones and a fanatical university drop out... All the dialogue, and internal monologues, felt forced and unnatural, there was a whole section that was essentially Marmite defence? The amount of perspectives got to be confusing, and some felt unneeded especially since their narratives added very little information, just more characters to juggle. I especially disliked the thirteen year old 'genius' perspective. You can be academically smart and still be an idiot. I felt no sympathy for her when she got herself abducted near the end, she was pushing herself into her older brother's business insisting she was 'smart' and could help while proving herself an unhelpful idiot... It wasn't necessary except for the final twist that is pushing an unnecessary sequel.
I liked the trans representation, the queer exploration between the two MMC's, the little moments of friendship and growth of relationships. The plot was chaotic, but easy enough to follow once it got going and a conclusion was reached in the end... I just found it hard to get into, a bit cringey to read and felt ultimately wholly unsatisfied with the ending... Not for me.
I liked the trans representation, the queer exploration between the two MMC's, the little moments of friendship and growth of relationships. The plot was chaotic, but easy enough to follow once it got going and a conclusion was reached in the end... I just found it hard to get into, a bit cringey to read and felt ultimately wholly unsatisfied with the ending... Not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2026
I loved this book! It's super relatable for anyone who's ever felt that they don't quite belong in this world or that nobody understands them.
The characters feel real and I really loved Ellie. She's had to deal with so much already, but everyone in the family supports her and sees her for who she is, and that's what makes her so confident and brilliant. It's a big contrast with the villain, who's had to shut down parts of himself since his childhood and never had any real friends or allies, and you see him getting more and more bitter and twisted. It's not shoved in your face, but once you see it, it's a good message about how love and affirmation turn people's lives around and we can become our best selves if we get the right support.
The central love story is really sweet and reminded me a bit of ‘Heartstopper’, except the plot doesn’t obsess about it being a same-sex relationship. It’s just two people falling in love in the process of trying to solve all the mysteries and save the world, which makes it feel natural. Also, the fact that some of the characters are trans is important to the plot (no spoilers) but not in a way that treats their transition like a source of stress or a problem to be solved. You just notice it and then move on, which is really different from other books that have trans characters in, but in a good way.
The different threads across time periods are woven together in a way that works well but also leaves lots of unanswered questions. It ended on a huge cliffhanger so now I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
Thanks for the advance copy in return for an honest review.
The characters feel real and I really loved Ellie. She's had to deal with so much already, but everyone in the family supports her and sees her for who she is, and that's what makes her so confident and brilliant. It's a big contrast with the villain, who's had to shut down parts of himself since his childhood and never had any real friends or allies, and you see him getting more and more bitter and twisted. It's not shoved in your face, but once you see it, it's a good message about how love and affirmation turn people's lives around and we can become our best selves if we get the right support.
The central love story is really sweet and reminded me a bit of ‘Heartstopper’, except the plot doesn’t obsess about it being a same-sex relationship. It’s just two people falling in love in the process of trying to solve all the mysteries and save the world, which makes it feel natural. Also, the fact that some of the characters are trans is important to the plot (no spoilers) but not in a way that treats their transition like a source of stress or a problem to be solved. You just notice it and then move on, which is really different from other books that have trans characters in, but in a good way.
The different threads across time periods are woven together in a way that works well but also leaves lots of unanswered questions. It ended on a huge cliffhanger so now I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
Thanks for the advance copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to Literally PR for an advanced copy of this book. (Released in the UK - 6th February 2026).
The Boy from Elsewhere is a joyous action packed sci-fi adventure that is full of classic 80s ET/Back to the Future-esque vibes.
This multi POV story - the first in a new series - introduces us to our 3 leads to David, Joshua and Jayce. Realising he is stuck in a life rut, an early morning walk in his quaint little seaside town sees David come across Joshua, a stranger in pyjamas who, not only woke up on the beach but does not know where he is and why his surroundings seem familiar but aren't at the same time. A blossoming friendship between the two, after a meeting with David's chaotic family, leads them to bring Jayce into their quest to find out who - or maybe what - Joshua really is.
The growing relationship between David and Joshua throughout the book was just a joy to read - the love, care and tenderness they showed to each other really is something that our world needs more of. Jayce is a strong and powerful character with a more vulnerable side and is a perfect addition to the story. A special mention also for David's little sister Ellie - super smart, super sassy and super chaotic, in the best way.
This is a story of love, found family and the power of friendship, with a sprinkling of timey wimey stuff on top.
I can't wait to see where this goes next!
The Boy from Elsewhere is a joyous action packed sci-fi adventure that is full of classic 80s ET/Back to the Future-esque vibes.
This multi POV story - the first in a new series - introduces us to our 3 leads to David, Joshua and Jayce. Realising he is stuck in a life rut, an early morning walk in his quaint little seaside town sees David come across Joshua, a stranger in pyjamas who, not only woke up on the beach but does not know where he is and why his surroundings seem familiar but aren't at the same time. A blossoming friendship between the two, after a meeting with David's chaotic family, leads them to bring Jayce into their quest to find out who - or maybe what - Joshua really is.
The growing relationship between David and Joshua throughout the book was just a joy to read - the love, care and tenderness they showed to each other really is something that our world needs more of. Jayce is a strong and powerful character with a more vulnerable side and is a perfect addition to the story. A special mention also for David's little sister Ellie - super smart, super sassy and super chaotic, in the best way.
This is a story of love, found family and the power of friendship, with a sprinkling of timey wimey stuff on top.
I can't wait to see where this goes next!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oooof, I absolutely loved The Boy From Elsewhere. It carries the intrigue of fantasy / science fiction, but never in a way that feels intimidating, so even readers who would normally say they “don’t do sci-fi” can step easily into the story. At its heart, this is a book about belonging, identity, friendship, and the quiet courage it takes to be truly seen.
The characters feel incredibly real, and Ellie (good name choice - that's my daughter's name) in particular stood out to me. She could have been written as a typical clever younger sibling, but instead she feels grounded, confident, and brilliantly authentic. That confidence clearly comes from being loved and supported for who she truly is, including her trans identity, and that emotional foundation gives the whole story real depth. I also found the contrast with the antagonist deeply thoughtful. Ellie and Graham feel like two possible outcomes of intelligence shaped by love or isolation, and the story explores this with subtlety rather than spelling it out.
The central love story is genuinely sweet and reminded me a little of Heartstopper, not because it focuses on labels, but because it simply allows two people to fall in love while facing something much bigger than themselves. Queer and trans identities are woven naturally into the narrative and even matter to the plot, yet never feel treated as problems to be solved. That quiet normality feels both refreshing and important in the world right now, especially for young people. While YA is quite clearly read by people of all ages from 13+, including many adults, the fact is these stories are written for young adults - teens and young people - in mind, not for 45-year-old adults, so I'm always mindful of that when reading and reviewing YA stories.
I appreciated how the parallel world and shifting timelines are hinted at rather than fully explained in laborious detail - that really is off-putting for me as a reader. The story, or should I say the author, trusts the reader and clearly sets the stage for something even bigger still to come. And ooooh yes, I am absolutely left me wanting more.
This feels like the beginning of an exciting series, and I already know these are characters I want to spend more time with. I’m just hoping we won’t have to wait too long for the next instalment.
The characters feel incredibly real, and Ellie (good name choice - that's my daughter's name) in particular stood out to me. She could have been written as a typical clever younger sibling, but instead she feels grounded, confident, and brilliantly authentic. That confidence clearly comes from being loved and supported for who she truly is, including her trans identity, and that emotional foundation gives the whole story real depth. I also found the contrast with the antagonist deeply thoughtful. Ellie and Graham feel like two possible outcomes of intelligence shaped by love or isolation, and the story explores this with subtlety rather than spelling it out.
The central love story is genuinely sweet and reminded me a little of Heartstopper, not because it focuses on labels, but because it simply allows two people to fall in love while facing something much bigger than themselves. Queer and trans identities are woven naturally into the narrative and even matter to the plot, yet never feel treated as problems to be solved. That quiet normality feels both refreshing and important in the world right now, especially for young people. While YA is quite clearly read by people of all ages from 13+, including many adults, the fact is these stories are written for young adults - teens and young people - in mind, not for 45-year-old adults, so I'm always mindful of that when reading and reviewing YA stories.
I appreciated how the parallel world and shifting timelines are hinted at rather than fully explained in laborious detail - that really is off-putting for me as a reader. The story, or should I say the author, trusts the reader and clearly sets the stage for something even bigger still to come. And ooooh yes, I am absolutely left me wanting more.
This feels like the beginning of an exciting series, and I already know these are characters I want to spend more time with. I’m just hoping we won’t have to wait too long for the next instalment.
March 4, 2026
I had the pleasure of working at the British Library launch for The Boy From Elsewhere on 11th February, and hearing Kestral read from the novel live was such a powerful introduction to the story.
I’ll admit, I’d never watched Heartstopper, so I didn’t know much about Tobie Donovan before the event but he was indeed the perfect host. Warm, engaging, and genuinely invested in the conversation. It created such a welcoming atmosphere in an already iconic setting.
What really resonated with me were the two chapters Kestral read aloud. They were beautifully written, emotionally layered, and compelling. There was something very real and grounded about the voice.
I couldn't wait to read the whole book. The story feels thoughtful and reflective, exploring identity and belonging with sensitivity rather than drama. It doesn’t shout or over-explain to the reader. This is a book that draws you in gently and makes you care, a book that clearly has heart at its core.
I’ll admit, I’d never watched Heartstopper, so I didn’t know much about Tobie Donovan before the event but he was indeed the perfect host. Warm, engaging, and genuinely invested in the conversation. It created such a welcoming atmosphere in an already iconic setting.
What really resonated with me were the two chapters Kestral read aloud. They were beautifully written, emotionally layered, and compelling. There was something very real and grounded about the voice.
I couldn't wait to read the whole book. The story feels thoughtful and reflective, exploring identity and belonging with sensitivity rather than drama. It doesn’t shout or over-explain to the reader. This is a book that draws you in gently and makes you care, a book that clearly has heart at its core.
February 25, 2026
I read The Boy From Elsewhere at home over a couple of evenings, and I was struck by how quickly I read through it. It feels easy to read yet still carries emotional depth.
The pacing is smooth and engaging, and the characters feel authentic. There’s a natural quality to the relationships and the dialogue that makes everything believable. It doesn’t feel forced or overly dramatic, just honest.
I liked how the story explores identity and self-discovery in a way that feels accessible. It’s thoughtful without being heavy, and hopeful without being unrealistic.
Overall, it’s a quick, heartfelt read that would especially resonate with YA readers looking for a story about belonging and finding your place.
The pacing is smooth and engaging, and the characters feel authentic. There’s a natural quality to the relationships and the dialogue that makes everything believable. It doesn’t feel forced or overly dramatic, just honest.
I liked how the story explores identity and self-discovery in a way that feels accessible. It’s thoughtful without being heavy, and hopeful without being unrealistic.
Overall, it’s a quick, heartfelt read that would especially resonate with YA readers looking for a story about belonging and finding your place.
February 12, 2026
This book was so beautiful in so many ways! I loved all the characters and found the plot to keep me intrigued throughout. Beautiful aspects of the power of friendship, love and a bit of sci fi thrown in for good measure. This book really would help anyone to feel seen especially if you have struggled with feelings of isolation and not feeling like you belong. Their is so many themes in this book with the main one being identity.I read it in a few days and couldnt put it down im so looking forward to the next instalment and seeing where these characters go next! An amazin g start to what will be i have no doubt a brilliant series
February 28, 2026
The Boy From Elsewhere pulled me in fast and didn’t let go. I loved the eerie seaside setting, the slow realisation that something is off, and how the mystery unfolds layer by layer. The parallel-world concept is handled really well, and the idea of “home” being more than just a place hit harder than I expected.
David and the found-family element were definite highlights for me, and once the story gathered momentum it became genuinely hard to put down. There were moments where I wanted just a bit more depth or breathing space, but overall this was a gripping, imaginative start to the series. I’m definitely curious to see where Reality Quake goes next.
David and the found-family element were definite highlights for me, and once the story gathered momentum it became genuinely hard to put down. There were moments where I wanted just a bit more depth or breathing space, but overall this was a gripping, imaginative start to the series. I’m definitely curious to see where Reality Quake goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Overall, this was a fun little read. A great distraction for a few days. It came across as a little rushed, however. I feel like the characters weren't fleshed out enough for my liking. The antagonist definitely could have used some more back story. The backstory of the plot could have stood to be a little more complete. Granted, this is only book 1 of the series, so hopefully, later books will fill in some of the plot/character holes that are currently scattered throughout this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a story of the power of friendship, found family and love told in multi POV.
I liked the Back to the Future-vibes and found it to be an enjoyable read.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC.
I liked the Back to the Future-vibes and found it to be an enjoyable read.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC.
February 9, 2026
Read this story obsessively - hooked from the first chapter. Characters were all interesting but with enough mystery to make this an intriguing series. Can’t wait for the next one.
Want to read
February 28, 2026Got the book today in the mail, will start reading it soon
March 1, 2026
A highly intriguing multi narrative plot which left me wanting to crack straight on to the sequel. Kestral has a style of writing that made me believe I was there, descriptive and emotional.
March 17, 2026
Someone tell Kestrel Gaian to give me their next book RIGHT NOW PLEASE.
I am absolutely obsessed. What a gorgeous book this was.
This was such a fun, and heartwarming read. I'm not usually that fussed by the found family trope, but this was just PERFECT. Idk, I think queer found family just hits different.
Kestral's writing style felt so easy to get into, I was hooked almost instantly.
The writing felt simple enough that I actually understood what was going on (because 90% of the time, I have no idea about all the big words in science fiction), but not so simple that it made things feel boring or condescending.
The LGBTQ+ rep felt completely natural, which I always adore. I love reading books where queerness is normalised <3 Also Kestral got the awkwardness of figuring out your sexuality SO accurate - I love when romance isn't all easy and instant, some of us are awkward and don't know what we're doing ok!! It was a nice reminder that self-discovery goes differently for everyone.
Some of the jokes and references felt so typically British which i loved. I would love to live in Joshua's world though, it sounded like such a kind and more tolerant place.
Overall, this was such a fun book. It was so lovely to read, and I can't wait for the next one!
I am absolutely obsessed. What a gorgeous book this was.
This was such a fun, and heartwarming read. I'm not usually that fussed by the found family trope, but this was just PERFECT. Idk, I think queer found family just hits different.
Kestral's writing style felt so easy to get into, I was hooked almost instantly.
The writing felt simple enough that I actually understood what was going on (because 90% of the time, I have no idea about all the big words in science fiction), but not so simple that it made things feel boring or condescending.
The LGBTQ+ rep felt completely natural, which I always adore. I love reading books where queerness is normalised <3 Also Kestral got the awkwardness of figuring out your sexuality SO accurate - I love when romance isn't all easy and instant, some of us are awkward and don't know what we're doing ok!! It was a nice reminder that self-discovery goes differently for everyone.
Some of the jokes and references felt so typically British which i loved. I would love to live in Joshua's world though, it sounded like such a kind and more tolerant place.
Overall, this was such a fun book. It was so lovely to read, and I can't wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy
💚Blurb-
One Town. Two Worlds. No Way Home.
A boy washes up on the beach of a quiet seaside town, soaked, shaken, and wearing nothing but pyjamas. He insists he's from here, but the whole place feels... not quite right.
Then he meets David, a stranger who offers to help. What begins as an act of kindness soon becomes something far stranger. Questions multiply, and a chain of events set in motion centuries ago tightens its grip on the present.
Drawn into a secretive world of hidden histories and dangerous foes, David gathers an unlikely band of allies to uncover the truth and get their new friend back elsewhere. But some doors were never meant to open, and when they do, reality itself begins to unravel.
The Boy From Elsewhere is a gripping story of parallel worlds, found family, and the terrifying courage it takes to hold on to the people you love when the universe itself is trying to pull you apart.
💛 Review -
For a debut novel this was such a well written novel. From the very first page the author's writing had me hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I feel that the story was a mix of fantasy and sci-fi which made for an interesting read. The story was easy to follow and had a great cast of characters. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Literally PR, the author Kesteral Gaian and the publisher for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
One Town. Two Worlds. No Way Home.
A boy washes up on the beach of a quiet seaside town, soaked, shaken, and wearing nothing but pyjamas. He insists he's from here, but the whole place feels... not quite right.
Then he meets David, a stranger who offers to help. What begins as an act of kindness soon becomes something far stranger. Questions multiply, and a chain of events set in motion centuries ago tightens its grip on the present.
Drawn into a secretive world of hidden histories and dangerous foes, David gathers an unlikely band of allies to uncover the truth and get their new friend back elsewhere. But some doors were never meant to open, and when they do, reality itself begins to unravel.
The Boy From Elsewhere is a gripping story of parallel worlds, found family, and the terrifying courage it takes to hold on to the people you love when the universe itself is trying to pull you apart.
💛 Review -
For a debut novel this was such a well written novel. From the very first page the author's writing had me hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I feel that the story was a mix of fantasy and sci-fi which made for an interesting read. The story was easy to follow and had a great cast of characters. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Literally PR, the author Kesteral Gaian and the publisher for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
My first introduction to Gaian's work was their Tubelines poetry collection and it was from that that I knew I'd be a fool to miss out on The Boy From Elsewhere.
It's a glorious meld of sci-fi, fantasy, and time travel which is always a win for me. The parallel worlds and narratives had me obsessed and I finished the book in one sitting. Some things are too good to be left unread. I needed answers. Exactly who was the boy washed up on the beach?
The characters were great and it didn't take long for me to became emotionally invested in them. I'm already excited to to catch up with them again in Book Two!
I thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
It's a glorious meld of sci-fi, fantasy, and time travel which is always a win for me. The parallel worlds and narratives had me obsessed and I finished the book in one sitting. Some things are too good to be left unread. I needed answers. Exactly who was the boy washed up on the beach?
The characters were great and it didn't take long for me to became emotionally invested in them. I'm already excited to to catch up with them again in Book Two!
I thoroughly enjoyed every minute.
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