Experiment 42: Outcasts of Orovoron

by Ace DeBest

Genres: Fantasy

384 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 9, 2026

Reviews

[Stefanie Verhelst · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great story this one is! It’s full of adventure and magic.

The story starts off with strong character and world building. The wriring style is very vivid and anticipant.

After reading this book, I’m very intrigued to read more from this author!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[L.L. Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, so you either were obsessed with LPS shows as a kid, adore science fiction plus fantasy mashups, love complex characters, and/or all of the above? Me too. Get into this review, readers—we’re hopping dimensions with this one.

I watched the show YEARS ago when I was younger and promised myself NOT to rewatch it in anticipation of this book. I didn't want to corrupt my thoughts with nostalgia—which was a brilliant choice on my part because it allowed me to step into this book with (semi) fresh eyes.

Characters
Lenny: Our protagonist is brilliant, incredibly introverted, and has a very severe case of amnesia. All normal, don’t worry! Or well, it would be okay if he wasn’t dumped at an apartment complex with a bunch of money and an effervescent need to create. Something I LOVE about Lenny is that he’s an active protagonist. There was never a worry about whether Lenny was going to get up and try to change something or get what he wants; the plot didn't just happen to him. Plus, he’s incredibly likable and relatable for introverts who want to make connections but feel they fall short.

Lydia: Our resident water fae. She is incredibly whimsical, and I love her because I’m obsessed with all things associated with water. She has quite a tragic, sad past. Because she has lived for so long, she acts as a sort of Hermione equivalent, telling Lenny (and by extension, the audience) everything we need to know about her homeworld. This is fantastic, because there was no way our introvert Lenny was going to find out that information by himself!

World-Building
Now, Experiment 42 is technically the archetype of a “secondary world” because we go from our modern day world of boring, horrible Earth to the fantastic, whimsical world of Orovoron. Plus other places, because again, we are dimension hopping y’all!

Without spoiling anything, if you’re someone who enjoys the worlds of Narnia, Harry Potter, and Elfhame (The Cruel Prince), you will get a huge kick out of the ideas Ace brings to the table. It has this incredible whimsy that pulls you in so deeply you don’t want to leave. Reality is lame anyway.

I also loved how she gave familiar creatures different names and vibes. For example, the Butterfly People are called “Felibries” in this world. I always appreciate when authors take the time to put a unique spin on classic tropes so they feel fresh and different, and Ace super delivers on this front! There are also completely new concepts she adds—her creativity is what I strive to have, but I won’t spoil her creature creations for those who are uber-curious.

Ramblings of a Reader
I adored Ace’s prose and descriptions. Her imagery is visceral and stunning; it feels as though you have been transported right along with the characters. It definitely helps that Ace is an artist who already conceptualized these ideas in 3D format for the show, but having it in the written word really expands on it. Ace is also funny as hell—some of the dialogue got a hella chuckle out of me. They’re so cute and quirky, it’s insane.

To keep it fully honest, we do have to talk about a few minor negatives. Because this is Ace’s debut novel, there are a few craft elements that need ironing out. It's nothing severe enough to impact your enjoyment, just minor things that might catch a reader's eye. For example, there’s a bit of telling instead of showing, or moments where we are told something and then shown it in the next breath. The fight scenes could also be tightened up for clarity, but action scenes are a total pain to write, so it’s not a make-or-break issue. It’s just one of those things that will naturally improve in the next installment.

What really shines is that Ace has a very distinct writer’s voice. I clocked it early on. If you picked up her book compared to another author's, you would immediately know which one Ace wrote. I love that!

Closing Thoughts
Overall, whether you’re a fan of the original show or are just getting into the world of Experiment 42, you will thoroughly enjoy reading this first book and becoming attached to these characters. If you’re a fan of immersive world-building and walking through landscapes with wonder in your eyes, I highly recommend this.
Brilliant work, Ace. I am very much looking forward to the next installment, Experiment 42: Outcasts of Orovoron. I hope everyone who reads this enjoys it as much as I did!

FINAL RATING:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 Stars)
🪶 10/10 Inked Quills

I was given a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 💜

[Justyce M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

To start with a general outlook, I really did enjoy the story and it was a great introduction to this new world and all of the characters. Each character had very distinct personalities from each other and brought along their own fleshed out backstories so there was a good sense of individuality. I really appreciate that with there being a large cast of characters. None of them felt too flat or like they were copies of another character. There was also decent spacing between the introduction of each set of characters so they weren’t all flung at you all at once. You had time to get acquainted with the characters you already knew before more were introduced. I have to say my favorite character was probably Daiga. I just found myself enjoying that every time Daiga showed up I knew something big was about to go down, and I was invested in learning more about him and the roles he was playing in Lenny’s past and present. (Also because he really reminded me of Pitch Black from Rise of the Guardians and Viktor in Arcane, and I just loved the vibes he was throwing down.)

I also enjoyed being introduced to the world and I honestly wish we got to learn more about it, but I personally just enjoy hardcore worldbuilding especially in fantasy type settings. However as the series progresses, this might be for the best because if they’re traveling to new worlds every story or something of that nature, eventually that would get to be overwhelming for both the reader and the author I think. I do also think that there simply wasn’t time for just a ton of in-depth worldbuilding if it wasn’t key to what was happening in the moment because the story was very fast paced and you didn’t stay in one place for long. That being said, I still felt quite immersed in the world and I especially loved all the different animals that showed up and were described, as well as the species lore especially with the Felibries.

On the note of the story being fast-paced, most of the scenes did not actually feel too rushed. There was time for everything that needed to happen to be explained and set up, but it did progress rapidly and as soon as one issue was solved you were propelled into the next. Most of these built up to one another however so it wasn’t just a random change in plot, which I did appreciate. Overall the plot did a good job of making this first book interesting while setting up points for future books to follow and I’m definitely excited to see where those go.

My only drawbacks to this book come from personal standpoints as a reader and writer myself so I’m going to include them, and this is not meant to be derogatory to the author in any way, just an inclusion of my opinions for those who might have some of the same. There were some instances especially in dialogue where over-punctuation was used to portray tone, rather than trusting the context and word descriptors to carry the sense of urgency, excitement, etc. I think certain scenes could’ve held more emotional weight through descriptors rather than additional exclamation marks, but of course that is up to the author’s style and preference.

Also along those lines is just the use of modern slang, such as “Who dat?” Again, this is absolutely from my personal taste and what I like to see in books. I think a lot of the slang made sense coming from Lenny’s character, coming from the world he did, but with the characters in this other fantasy world, I would’ve like to see maybe some different versions of slang for them that felt like it fit where they were from. But I can also see that for its young adult audience, those moments might be better received. And then finally, I think there could’ve been a little more uniformity to the change in character perspectives. It did feel like there were some parts where in one paragraph you were in one character’s head, and in the next you were with another character who was thinking of something totally different, and those instances did take me out of the story a little bit.

Aside from those minor things, I really did enjoy the story overall and I’m excited to see where it goes from here. If you’re a fan of YA fantasy/sci-fi, this was a good read with a promising outlook on where it's headed and I would absolutely recommend it to younger readers. I think it would be a great gateway into advanced reads of those genres as it’s more right in the middle and can definitely help acquaint young readers to these genres.

[Rae Lightstar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Experiment 42: Outcasts of Orovoron effectively introduces the reader to a fantasy world by giving us a human protagonist, Lenny, living in an apartment on Earth. The reader knows right away that this will be a fantasy book, but I found the steps taken to truly enter this cultivated universe to be kind and accessible to someone who may not frequent this genre. That isn’t to say that the world of Orovoron is anything other than a richly and obviously well-loved world, just that reading it doesn’t come across as overwhelming. Which is quite important, as there’s plenty of fauna, lands, and lore to be expected once you get there.

I liked being fed the backstories of our various outcasts in a uniquely organic way that gave introductory information and characterization without feeling awkward or misplaced. Point of view is not locked onto the main protagonist as one may initially think, rather, perspective operates similarly to a movie, with different “angles” cut in throughout as the story progresses. It may seem disconcerting at first—depending on the style of reading you’re used to—but it works well enough and offers insights into multiple characters’ thoughts, speeding up general development without the main protagonist being forced to constantly speculate the motivations of others. There are a few shorter passages later in the book where point of view is switched a bit too abruptly, but it wasn't enough to bother me given that I was already invested.

The world of Orovoron is written in a way that makes it alive, not just described. I found the different places to be lived in and not simply existing, which can often be a struggle in fantasy novels. I didn’t feel that to be the case here, with characters frequently doing or saying things that offer the reader a way to ground themselves in the environment. I can still picture the way Lenny describes one of the first fruits he encounters as “squishy” before he bites into it.

I am personally more of a “character-focused” reader than “story-focused.” That said, I genuinely enjoyed the overall story and was definitely satisfied with the ending. In fact, the resolution would make this book easy to reread, and enough curiosity is piqued that I would certainly read a sequel.

I found the characters to be wonderfully written. The band of misfits are truly that, and they all contribute to each other’s development in addition to the story’s progression. They’re also enjoyable to read, each with their own quirks, mannerisms, tone of voice, and ways of communicating. The author did an excellent job by giving everyone not just unique personalities, but also visual attributes that aided in their characterization—like Lydia’s cat eyes and her historical amalgamation of attire full of pockets that rattled with her collection of shiny treasures.

I loved the concept and execution of the titans—every single one of them. I also thought the way that Hiavony’s soldiers wore helmets that matched the pattern of their horses’ horns to be such a fun and creative detail. Additionally, I must point out, as a physically disabled person, that reading about Kahra was much appreciated. Giving a mythical character in a primitive fantasy world a mobility aid was done so naturally, but it did not go unrecognized. The concept that her disability could be permanent was even acknowledged between her and her partner, and I just thought his casual acceptance was a really mature and nuanced bit of text that was woven in brilliantly.

It was clear that this book was a labor of love and that the author took great care in developing these characters and story. I’m very grateful to have been given the opportunity to read it in advance for a review and look forward to seeing what these characters get up to in future works!

[Lumi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Experiment 42 is a book that I did not anticipate enjoying as much as I did. It is a whimsical escape from reality, and the imagery in the book really puts you in perspective. I thought it was such a wonderful experience, being able to reconnect with childhood characters with something new. There were so many moments when I could not put the book down, and when I became busy with life, I was devastated, unable to pick it back up. I cannot wait for it to come out (June 9th, 2026!) so I can purchase it for my friends and watch them feel the same way.

For a debut novel, especially in my favorite genre (YA & fantasy), it was such a remarkable read. It brought me back to when I was reading another book for the first time, that same feeling that made me fall in love with reading in the first place. Experiment 42 is so much more than just a found family. Ace’s writing is full of love and intrigue, and I genuinely cannot recommend this enough. The story is so original and refreshing, especially for a first book. There are some minor gaps here and there, but that’s the beauty of “first time for everything.”

All of the original characters feel so well-developed, and it feels like I grew up alongside them. For reference, I watched Experiment 42 when it started as a Littlest Pet Shop series over a decade ago. The best part was seeing how much has stayed the same and how much has changed with the characters over time. You do not need to watch the series to understand the book, but it holds a very sentimental place in my heart because of the series. It got so serious that I translated the language with my friends, which is a memory I will cherish from this book. I won’t be sharing my findings, as I will leave that up to you to figure out!

The pace felt unsettlingly good, at least to my taste. Anytime I found myself wondering when the next event would happen, it wouldn't take long for the next part to kick off. I found my favorite characters to be Noka and Lydia. They're two sides of the same coin. Watching all of them grow together was so endearing.

My only note is that sometimes I wish that when characters had objects such as weapons and bags, they would describe where they got them. It felt like they would just appear. Sometimes the fight scenes felt as if they should be in separate paragraphs, as some moments were lengthy. It is still, however, a fun and easy read, especially for a YA audience. As someone within/near that demographic, Ace has definitely hit the mark in my eyes. It's fun and enchanting, and it is definitely worth a read.

[Anne den Ouden · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, I found this book to be an interesting and enjoyable read.

At the beginning, I struggled with the frequent dreams and visions. They were sometimes confusing enough that I found myself going back through earlier chapters to check whether I had missed something. As the story progressed and these sequences became less frequent, I found it much easier to follow the narrative and stay engaged with the plot.

The characters were one of the book's strengths. I enjoyed getting to know each of them, and they generally felt well-developed and distinct. One aspect that felt slightly inconsistent to me was Lenny's social life. He is described as socially awkward and someone who struggles to make friends, yet throughout the story he seems to form friendships quite easily. While this may have been intentional, it stood out to me as something that could perhaps be explored or explained further.

The worldbuilding is extensive and clearly well thought out. However, there were moments when the focus on the setting seemed to overshadow the central plot. Based on the book's summary, I expected more emphasis on uncovering the experiments and discovering the truth about Lenny's past. At times, these story elements felt secondary to the broader worldbuilding.

My final observation concerns the pacing. The first part of the book moves quite slowly, while the final section accelerates significantly. Personally, I enjoyed the faster pace toward the end, as it created excitement and momentum. However, the contrast between the slower beginning and the rapid conclusion was noticeable, and some readers may find the shift somewhat abrupt.

Overall, the book offers engaging characters, a richly developed world, and an intriguing story. With some adjustments to clarity, focus, and pacing, I think future books or even a future series could become even stronger.

[That Yeti · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first time I've had the opportunity to receive an ARC book copy, and I'm SO happy to say it was this one. I've been part of the LPS community for at least 13 years now, and seeing a story I and many other people loved for so long develop into something amazing like this was so nostalgic and fun. I read it in about 3 days, and the whole time I was so excited to see which character would be introduced next. Witnessing the group find each other and grow together was one of my favorite parts, and I love them all for different reasons. I want to keep this review spoiler free so I won't go into too much detail, but I resonated with a lot of them very much. It's difficult for me to pick a favorite ❤️

Orovoron is a gorgeous dimension. The world building was phenomenal and the way everything was described painted a beautiful picture in my imagination. I found myself wishing I could see all the fantastic creatures and people in real life. I'll probably be drawing some of them. 👀 The story was well paced too, at no point did I feel bored. If anything I wish the book was longer because I miss the characters already 🥹 I do believe everything was written well and had a good conclusion though!

The ending was so good and intriguing, and it left me craving more. I would love to someday learn more of Lenny's past and memories, and read about the adventures he and his friends embark on! I really love these characters so much, their story felt like meeting old friends. I'll definiely be re-reading this book again in the future :]

Overall, I rate this book 9/9 falling stars 😎 You don't have to be apart of the LPS community or watch the original series to appreciate the story, it's absolutely wonderful on it's own!! I HIGHLY recommend it, especially if you love fantasy and sci-fi stories!

[Alex Ridgen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Getting the chance to read and review Outcasts of Ororovon honestly felt a little unreal. For me, this wasn’t just picking up another fantasy novel — it felt like revisiting a piece of my childhood. Long before it became a book, I was one of the many kids completely hooked on the author’s LpsTube series Experiment 42, eagerly waiting for every new episode to release. Back then, LpsTube was such a huge part of my life, and Experiment 42 was one of those rare stories that stayed with me long after I’d finished watching. Seeing that world transformed into a full novel years later made this reading experience feel incredibly personal and nostalgic for me.

So when I received a message from Ace asking if I’d be interested in reading and reviewing Outcasts of Ororovon, I immediately jumped at the opportunity. What I loved most while reading was seeing how the world and ideas I once watched through tiny LPS characters had grown into something even bigger and more immersive. You can still feel the same creativity, emotion, and passion that made so many people fall in love with the original series in the first place, but now it’s been expanded into a deeper, more mature story that longtime fans can appreciate in a whole new way.

Beyond all of the nostalgia, though, what really surprised me was how strong the story itself really was. From beginning on a screen to finding its place on paper, this story has come such a long way, as Outcasts of Ororvon doesn't just rely on longtime fans already caring about the world, but it stands well on it's own with its atmosphere, characters, and overall emotional weight. Ace does an incredible job building a world that feels both mysterious and alive, while still keeping the story emotionally grounded through the characters and their struggles as we go through the story.

One thing I especially loved was the writing itself. The descriptions and emotions feel very vivid without becoming overwhelming, and the pacing kept me genuinely invested the entire time, from start to the end. There's so MUCH heart put into this story, and you can tell Ace truly cares about the world and the character they've created. Even during the quieter moments in the book, it never felt dull because there was always this sense that something bigger was unfolding beneath the surface.

What makes the book especially meaningful for longtime fans is seeing how much the story has matured. While the original Experiment 42 already had creativity and emotional depth, Outcasts of Ororovon expands on those ideas in a way that feels more refined, immersive, and emotionally impactful. It feels like growing up alongside a story that once meant so much to you as a kid.

Thank you Ace, for this opportunity to review your book!

[Lizzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I remember being totally obsessed with Experiment 42 when the series came out when I was younger. The series was a huge part of my childhood, so when I found out it was becoming a book, I was beyond excited. I just knew right away that I'd love it too, probably even more.

Reading the book was so nostalgic. It was amazing to see all the little references that matched up with the series. I honestly couldn't put it down because I always wanted to know what would happen on the next page. I really loved all the details about the world and the creatures that made everything feel alive. It added so much to the experience.

I enjoy getting to know each character. They all had such distinct personalities and their own detailed backstories. Also love seeing characters change a bit in book but still have same small habit as in the series, and see how each of their individual journeys unfolded. What really stood out was how well they all fit together, even with their differences.

Lenny quickly became my favorite character. I was immediately drawn into his narrative and couldn't wait to see what he would do next. My heart went out to him at the beginning, given all the struggles he faced. (I felt so bad for him at the start that I want to jump in book and help him but I'm glad he found friends.)

Last thing, I'm super happy I had the chance to get an ARC copy. I can't wait to see the book in stores (June 9th!). I'm also excited to see what Ace does next!

Rating: 5/5 stars

[Tabz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received an advanced e-book copy

I am coming into this with a blind eye, and let me tell you, it's a wonderful, fantastic ride.

The idea first came from the LPS series of the same name, to which I had only just now started to watch. I have not seen it before this.

The book itself is based on the story and the adventures of the series. It's just a little different. But I absolutely enjoyed every second of it. Seeing how the characters have grown into this story, the way of imagining the worlds.

I really loved this book, and I definitely would want to get a physical copy in the future. If that is an option.

To say where this book lies with fans, exactly as Ace had said when describing this series. Especially if you are a fan of Doctor Who, this book is for you. The book had me hooked from the first chapter, and I really couldn't put it down.

Thank you for the advance copy. I can't wait to re-read it again!

[Ilse Westra · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true page turner that digs its claws into you from the very first page. This is only the first instalment of a series that I'm going to be invested in for a very long time. Lenny's possibly the first main character I truly enjoy, possibly over every other character in the story. Yes, even the villains. Even if they are pretty neat as well.

The pacing is fast, but the story slows down in the right places. Allowing you moments to breathe and process what has just happened. I enjoyed the thrilling fight scenes just as much as the heartfelt moments of bonding.

Lenny's journey to find himself is far from over, and I physically cannot wait for more. I hope to see more of the main group as I personally adored Perry's boundless optimism and her intricate connection to this dimension.

[Marc72 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very captivating book and I finished it in one sitting. It's written in an accessible style and takes the reader along an interesting journey through dimensions and strange worlds. The main character, an inventor, lost his experiments in another dimension/world and is on a quest to get them back. Along the way he meets his interesting companions. The story itself is like a mix of Harry Potter, Doctor Who and Lord of the Ring.
Appearantly the book is based on a YouTube series from 10 years ago from the author, but having never watched that didn't make me enjoy this book any less. It's a completely stand-alone story, hinting towars a lot of sequels.
Although the book is targeted towards young adults, I'm in my fifties and enjoyed it immensly. Can't wait for the next part.

[Erika Sab · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book got me out of my reading slump! I did not expect it to be AS good as it was when I was pucking it up, ngl.
The storyline was very unique, the characters were fun and interesting each with their own quirks and the world with it's beasts were just *chefs kiss*. The comic relief was well placed, there were vulnerable moments, tense moments, funny moments and so much more.
I have so many questions after finishing it and I am lowkey kinda mad that I read the ARC, because now I have to wait that much longer for the second one! I hope this book gets the attention it deserves, because I can't wait to see all the artwork of characters and creatures.
All in all very refreshing read and I cannot wait for more!

[Cece Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Goonies meets Big Hero 6

Experiment 42: Outcasts of Orovoron is a wonderful YA book. In this coming of age story, the main character must overcome his weaknesses (and memory loss) to forge a new family of "myths and misfits."

There's lots of battles and magic and scientific inventions. There is a lot going on in the story, but the author brings it all together.

This story has themes of world building, found family , magic, good vs evil, unremarkable - yet remarkable hero. Suitable for the age description of 12+. All-in-all, an enjoyable YA fantasy.

I received an advance copy from the author. This is my honest review.

[Bettina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to say thank you for getting early access to the book, i truly enjoyed it.
Lenny’s character really catch me, I felt sorry for him as nobody deserves to be so lonely. The idea of merging science fiction and fantasy together is very original and the adventures the characters had really kept me interested till the end. It would be so nice to learn more about the creatures in the world.
The only thing i missed a bit is the character’s personality, bit felt like they are all alike. However, i am looking forward to the what kind of adventures brings the next book.

Thank you again, it is an amazing, cute and refreshing read.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to see Experiment 42 get turned into a book series. It was my favorite LPS series as a kid and now it’ll become one of my favorite book series!! This is the exact type of fantasy I love with an exciting world(s) and great crew of characters on a mission. I pulled out my Lydia and Lenny LPS to accompany my reading and was so thrilled when Lydia was introduced. Both these two characters along with the others they meet are very unique and vibrant. I can’t wait to get more of their story!

[Marjolein Pseudoniem · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author is family, so I was a bit nervous about being an advanced copy reader knowing how critical I can be. I didn't need to be because this is honestly one of the best stories I have ever read. It is original, it is captivating, I could not put it down once Lenny wakes up on Orovoron. I laughed, I cried, I want the next one! This is going to be a classic.

[Simon Swink · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a fan of epic fantasy and litRPG — I was intrigued by the blur of this book.
I like the colorful description of the dreamscapes and enjoyed the climactic action scenes. The worldbuilding of the portal realm was very detailed & easy to imagine.
Its been decades since I read anything 3rd POV omniscient — so it took a moment for me to transition between the various point of views.

[Katie Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a wonderful read! I loved getting to know Lenny and see his story unfold. The true SciFi content was a wonderful change. It was easy to get immersed into the story and just enjoy the refreshing take on such an enjoyable topic. I received an early copy and I’m glad I was able to experience this!

[Delphine Van Hevel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review of an ARC

3,5/5⭐️

The magical world is really cool and fascinating for sure! I cannot wait to see where this is going to be honest because I still have so many questions.
I’m still really confused and the only person a feel really connected to is Lydia.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it, the Characters and the World are so extensive and fun, I was kept on the edge of my seat the whole way, really loved getting to know all the characters and how they interacted with each other, cannot wait for the second book if there will be one

[Jason Mckellips · Rating 4 out of 5]

While you can tell the author is still settling into their writing style, the world they have created is stunning. Orovoron is vibrant, interesting, and leaves me excited to learn more about the rest of the universe that was teased in the book.

[Wendy Kortekaas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me from page 1. Good opening. Easy to read, even as a second language. Beautifully conceived fantasy world. Nicely different for a change!

[Axia Xxx · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book a lot and I loved the story even more! I’m so excited to see where they go next and what they’ll encounter there! If you haven’t read it yet you should!!! happy reading :)

[Kelsey Bursch]

I did not finish but I do plan on coming back to this book because I really enjoyed it from what I read.