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Lume
The capital city of Lume is on the brink of chaos. A newly formed underground city begins a rebellion, threatening Lume's complacent king.
A Prince, content with a warm bed and a full glass, must choose between his family and his honor.
A Girl, buried beneath her past, must decide whether to risk everything she has for her dreams.
A Lawless, forged to be a leader among the rebels, must find a way to remain in control.
They never wanted to be heroes.
Ruled by old traditions, Lume is plagued with new technology it isn't ready for. In a world filled with betrayal, hard truths, and broken pasts, can Lume be saved or will it succumb to its eventual destruction?
In TM Ghent's debut novel, Lume blurs the expectations of fantasy and science fiction into a creative blend featuring a new and exciting world.
A Prince, content with a warm bed and a full glass, must choose between his family and his honor.
A Girl, buried beneath her past, must decide whether to risk everything she has for her dreams.
A Lawless, forged to be a leader among the rebels, must find a way to remain in control.
They never wanted to be heroes.
Ruled by old traditions, Lume is plagued with new technology it isn't ready for. In a world filled with betrayal, hard truths, and broken pasts, can Lume be saved or will it succumb to its eventual destruction?
In TM Ghent's debut novel, Lume blurs the expectations of fantasy and science fiction into a creative blend featuring a new and exciting world.
- GenresScience FictionFantasy
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2022
4 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
T.M. Ghent
3 books46 followerswriting morally grey with a dash of blues
TM Ghent, author of the Lume Duology, likes to blur the morality lines which distinctly sit between hero and anti-hero characters, forcing you to question who really is wrong. Refusing to adhere to standard literary tropes, her stories break the mold and defy genres, such as blending fantasy world-building with sci-fi tech or historical plots in contemporary settings.
TM Ghent lives with her husband and two children near the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, USA. When she isn’t lost in a story, she can be found making music in her local community band, heading to the movies with her husband, or raising her own little word-lovers.
TM Ghent, author of the Lume Duology, likes to blur the morality lines which distinctly sit between hero and anti-hero characters, forcing you to question who really is wrong. Refusing to adhere to standard literary tropes, her stories break the mold and defy genres, such as blending fantasy world-building with sci-fi tech or historical plots in contemporary settings.
TM Ghent lives with her husband and two children near the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, USA. When she isn’t lost in a story, she can be found making music in her local community band, heading to the movies with her husband, or raising her own little word-lovers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 23, 2022
For those who have read the blurb, I hope it interests you and you are willing to give it a chance. And those who have decided to pick it up, I hope you enjoy it.
This is an adult, speculative fiction novel. It is the first of a duology and therefore will end accordingly. I am also a tragedy writer, so proceed with caution.
As an aside, my content warnings are: alcoholism, death, grief, murder, abuse (physical/emotional), sexual assault, violence, mental health (anxiety, depression, addiction), and profanity. There is romance, but mild, and sex remains "off-page."
This is an adult, speculative fiction novel. It is the first of a duology and therefore will end accordingly. I am also a tragedy writer, so proceed with caution.
As an aside, my content warnings are: alcoholism, death, grief, murder, abuse (physical/emotional), sexual assault, violence, mental health (anxiety, depression, addiction), and profanity. There is romance, but mild, and sex remains "off-page."
February 4, 2022
I love when a book pulls me in like this and gets me so invested in the characters, who I couldn't help but fall in love with - they were intriguing and perfectly flawed. This was an escape into a beautifully crafted world and story that kept me guessing. It's a must read for those who love and root for the morally grey characters!
February 28, 2022
I can’t believe I got to beta read this marvelous debut novel!
I have been following the authors writing journey for this book for quite some time now so I was so excited to finally meet these characters in all their glory.
Let me just say the WORLD BUILDING OMG. It blew me away. Seriously. I’m in awe of the attention to detail. I was encapsulated into both of the worlds she created.
I love the multiple POVs as it helps me to get know the characters better and what’s going on in their head. Or what you think is going on is a better way to state it. Because holy moly of cliffhangers. This is one of the my top cliffhangers because it was a twist I absolutely wasn’t expecting.
Maddox, Prince Rajveer, and Theo all brought something to the table. Each had a different personality and things they brought to the table plot wise. The author will have you fighting over what team you are on! Maddox or Raj? Raj or Maddox? You can’t really go wrong with either. But with my love of blondes and a metal hand, Raj stole my heart.
The MC Theo is kick butt. Seriously. She is her own person and can take care of herself. She doesn’t have to depend on anyone and I love that!
So yea. Pretty much READ THIS BOOK AS SOON AS IT COMES OUT. Okay? Okay.
I have been following the authors writing journey for this book for quite some time now so I was so excited to finally meet these characters in all their glory.
Let me just say the WORLD BUILDING OMG. It blew me away. Seriously. I’m in awe of the attention to detail. I was encapsulated into both of the worlds she created.
I love the multiple POVs as it helps me to get know the characters better and what’s going on in their head. Or what you think is going on is a better way to state it. Because holy moly of cliffhangers. This is one of the my top cliffhangers because it was a twist I absolutely wasn’t expecting.
Maddox, Prince Rajveer, and Theo all brought something to the table. Each had a different personality and things they brought to the table plot wise. The author will have you fighting over what team you are on! Maddox or Raj? Raj or Maddox? You can’t really go wrong with either. But with my love of blondes and a metal hand, Raj stole my heart.
The MC Theo is kick butt. Seriously. She is her own person and can take care of herself. She doesn’t have to depend on anyone and I love that!
So yea. Pretty much READ THIS BOOK AS SOON AS IT COMES OUT. Okay? Okay.
December 18, 2022
I am speechless. This book wrecked me, in the best possible way. I have grown to love Raj, Theo and Maddox so much. They were such beautifully complicated characters. And the world T.M. created! I have never read anything like it. If you are into sci-fi, fantasy and dystopia then this is for you cause all of that collided to bring you Lume. I was captivated from page one. Morally gray characters, love, adventure, fascinating weapons, beautiful and unique world, betrayal, friendship and amazing attention to details have created this masterpiece of a novel. Add to your TBR so you can read it when it releases November 2022!
March 16, 2022
This book kept my interest from the very beginning with Rajveer’s pov and his portion of the story caught and held my attention really well. And then the Theodora and Maddox’s only added to it from there. My interest and curiosity was piqued and held about the characters and their world. (I also really liked Raj’s robot hand!!)
The world is very intricately laid out and cool to read about and picture. I was devouring it and I got some lunar chronicle and Ender’s Game vibes big-time that I really liked as well!
Loved the dynamics between the characters, especially Theo and Maddox!! *heart eyes*
A definite must-read, and mark your calendar for book two when it's time as well!!
The world is very intricately laid out and cool to read about and picture. I was devouring it and I got some lunar chronicle and Ender’s Game vibes big-time that I really liked as well!
Loved the dynamics between the characters, especially Theo and Maddox!! *heart eyes*
A definite must-read, and mark your calendar for book two when it's time as well!!
October 5, 2022
This book was fantastic! TM Ghent did an amazing job creating a gritty, captivating world that combined both fantasy and sci-fi elements and I was here for it every step of the way.
I knew going into Lume to expect tragedy but I did not see the twists coming or the ending for the matter. I love the villain all the more for it.
If you’re a fan of fast-paced, gripping reads, and you don’t mind a little bit of tragedy in your life, don’t miss reading Lume!
I knew going into Lume to expect tragedy but I did not see the twists coming or the ending for the matter. I love the villain all the more for it.
If you’re a fan of fast-paced, gripping reads, and you don’t mind a little bit of tragedy in your life, don’t miss reading Lume!
November 8, 2023
Erm ... I need processing time ... I'm still processing but here's a review of how I feel ...
What a bloody ending!!! Seriously I knew that twist was coming but definitely wasn't the person who I thought it was going to be!!!
I loved this book so much!!
Maddox was my fave from the start ... gotta love a rebel 😅 I just really bonded with his character
Theo is absolutely badass!!
Raj grew on me I wasn't sure in the beginning with him but by the end I was really liking him
The world building in this book is amazing!! I actually felt like I was there!! The author really does pull you into the story
The plot .... welll I'm not saying anything on that one except ... the author likes to put you through the ringer
The characters... I loved them so much and their development was brilliant I really got attached to some of the characters
I can't wait to read Petram even if from what I've seen it's going to break me 😅
What a bloody ending!!! Seriously I knew that twist was coming but definitely wasn't the person who I thought it was going to be!!!
I loved this book so much!!
Maddox was my fave from the start ... gotta love a rebel 😅 I just really bonded with his character
Theo is absolutely badass!!
Raj grew on me I wasn't sure in the beginning with him but by the end I was really liking him
The world building in this book is amazing!! I actually felt like I was there!! The author really does pull you into the story
The plot .... welll I'm not saying anything on that one except ... the author likes to put you through the ringer
The characters... I loved them so much and their development was brilliant I really got attached to some of the characters
I can't wait to read Petram even if from what I've seen it's going to break me 😅
January 27, 2022
Review to come.
December 4, 2023
Fantasy and science fiction collide in T.M Ghent’s debut, LUME, where a world is on the brink of chaos and revolution. Filled with political intrigue, secrets, and action, the world that Ghent created was intricate and detailed, and made the perfect backdrop for the fantastic cast of characters.
All of the characters were dynamic, realistic, and certainly not without flaws. I adored each and every one and I loved how well they work together. The author has stated several times that she is a fan of tragedies, and I’d definitely believe it. These characters were put to the test emotionally and, consequently, so was I.
All told, a delightful and heart-wrenching debut that will suck you in from the very first page. Highly recommend, particularly for those who love morally grey characters, intrigue, intricate world-building, and plenty of twists and turns. The ending is a brutal one, and it’s going to make the wait for book 2 seem like eternity.
Many thanks to Hidden Hollow Book Tours and T.M. Ghent for having my on the tour and gifting a copy of the book.
All of the characters were dynamic, realistic, and certainly not without flaws. I adored each and every one and I loved how well they work together. The author has stated several times that she is a fan of tragedies, and I’d definitely believe it. These characters were put to the test emotionally and, consequently, so was I.
All told, a delightful and heart-wrenching debut that will suck you in from the very first page. Highly recommend, particularly for those who love morally grey characters, intrigue, intricate world-building, and plenty of twists and turns. The ending is a brutal one, and it’s going to make the wait for book 2 seem like eternity.
Many thanks to Hidden Hollow Book Tours and T.M. Ghent for having my on the tour and gifting a copy of the book.
November 10, 2022
All. The. Feels.
Set in a rich, unique world full of scheming, morally grey characters, Lume is like Six of Crows...if Six of Crows were for adults and full of sci-fi gadgets and new worlds. The characters are rich, the world is superb, and the plot will keep you guessing and wondering who "deserves" to win. But in Lume, there are no outright heroes or villains, not really. Everything is cast in shades of grey that makes you constantly think about the ways in which we all carry pieces of light and darkness inside of us. And Ghent does an excellent job of making us love each of her characters, darkness and all.
This book is perfect for anyone who doesn't want traditional heroes, loves to explore sci-fi worlds, enjoys epic plot twists and schemes, and craves a book that will break their heart.
Set in a rich, unique world full of scheming, morally grey characters, Lume is like Six of Crows...if Six of Crows were for adults and full of sci-fi gadgets and new worlds. The characters are rich, the world is superb, and the plot will keep you guessing and wondering who "deserves" to win. But in Lume, there are no outright heroes or villains, not really. Everything is cast in shades of grey that makes you constantly think about the ways in which we all carry pieces of light and darkness inside of us. And Ghent does an excellent job of making us love each of her characters, darkness and all.
This book is perfect for anyone who doesn't want traditional heroes, loves to explore sci-fi worlds, enjoys epic plot twists and schemes, and craves a book that will break their heart.
January 7, 2023
Thank you to TM Ghent and Hidden Hollow Book Tours for providing me with a digital copy of this book. This is my honest review.
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A delicious blend of sci-fi and fantasy, Lume captivates from beginning to end. TM Ghent does a great job of constructing a world that you can really sink into. From futuristic tech to seedy underground maneuvering to court intrigue, Lume has a little bit of everything!
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This is the land of the morally grey MC and Lume’s cast doesn’t disappoint. All three leads have dreams and desires and flaws of their own. To create the future they want, secret shenanigans and a betrayal or two are inevitable 👀 TM Ghent does a great job of throwing raw emotions at you in the midst of all the chaos. No spoilers, but the jelly stand 😭💗 AND THAT ENDING! Consider me destroyed.
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I found the dynamics between the Seclusians, the Lawless, and the Lumens so fascinating. It added a depth to this book that I really enjoyed. I also loved the tech! Some of the gadgets they use here sound so dope! I was definitely making sound effect noises in my head as I was reading 😂
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Overall, I would highly recommend Lume! If you’re into morally grey MC’s and are looking for a mix of sci-fi and fantasy elements, give Lume a shot! I can’t wait to see what book 2 has in store.
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Lume is the first book in the Lume duology. It is available in paperback and ebook format. It is also available through Kindle Unlimited.
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A delicious blend of sci-fi and fantasy, Lume captivates from beginning to end. TM Ghent does a great job of constructing a world that you can really sink into. From futuristic tech to seedy underground maneuvering to court intrigue, Lume has a little bit of everything!
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This is the land of the morally grey MC and Lume’s cast doesn’t disappoint. All three leads have dreams and desires and flaws of their own. To create the future they want, secret shenanigans and a betrayal or two are inevitable 👀 TM Ghent does a great job of throwing raw emotions at you in the midst of all the chaos. No spoilers, but the jelly stand 😭💗 AND THAT ENDING! Consider me destroyed.
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I found the dynamics between the Seclusians, the Lawless, and the Lumens so fascinating. It added a depth to this book that I really enjoyed. I also loved the tech! Some of the gadgets they use here sound so dope! I was definitely making sound effect noises in my head as I was reading 😂
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Overall, I would highly recommend Lume! If you’re into morally grey MC’s and are looking for a mix of sci-fi and fantasy elements, give Lume a shot! I can’t wait to see what book 2 has in store.
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Lume is the first book in the Lume duology. It is available in paperback and ebook format. It is also available through Kindle Unlimited.
January 6, 2023
Lume is a fantasy sci-fi genre bend full of action and adventure. This one is also on Kindle Unlimited!
💫Tag Line/ Blurb that made me want to read it!
"They never wanted to be heroes."
"Ruled by old traditions, Lume is plagued with new technology it isn't ready for. In a world filled with betrayal, hard truths, and broken pasts, can Lume be saved or will it succumb to its "eventual destruction?
✨ REVIEW ✨
The author knocked it out of the park with this debut. Full of morally grey characters, political intrigue, betrayal, and general chaos throughout the book was perfection. Ghent even sets the reader up with a glossary of terms that I missed at first and admittedly was lost. But after I found the glossary it all clicked and became a bit easier to read. All of the characters are introduced in their truest forms so it was great to get to the characters and their personalities right away. I loved Maddox and his crew, it gave me morally gray and found family vibes which is one of my favorite tropes.
If felt a little thrown off at first by the writing but once I was a couple of chapters in it made total sense and worked great for the story. My jaw dropped at the ending because HELLO HOW CAN YOU DO THAT TO US. So I'll definitely be picking up the next one.
October 17, 2022
This book is a MASTERPIECE! I really did not want to set Lume down and the three POVs kept me hooked. From the first chapter I was intrigued and as I kept meeting new characters, I just had to know more.
I really enjoyed this world and the world building. There were no info dumps and I loved how you got to see this world from three very different perspectives and how Ghent slowly painted the picture, yet left room for expansion.
These characters were so very unique and different from one another so I never got lost with who’s POV I was in. It really felt like I was there with them with the author’s vivid descriptions and now I very much want to go to Lume and Seclus now.
The ending was CRAZY! There were so many unexpected twists and then a horribly amazing cliffhanger to top it all off. I need the second book immediately because I will die with out answers (not literally, I might add).
Thank you so much to the author for an advance copy of Lume. This is a fantasy you need in your life and I highly recommend giving it a read!
I really enjoyed this world and the world building. There were no info dumps and I loved how you got to see this world from three very different perspectives and how Ghent slowly painted the picture, yet left room for expansion.
These characters were so very unique and different from one another so I never got lost with who’s POV I was in. It really felt like I was there with them with the author’s vivid descriptions and now I very much want to go to Lume and Seclus now.
The ending was CRAZY! There were so many unexpected twists and then a horribly amazing cliffhanger to top it all off. I need the second book immediately because I will die with out answers (not literally, I might add).
Thank you so much to the author for an advance copy of Lume. This is a fantasy you need in your life and I highly recommend giving it a read!
February 21, 2022
Phenomenal!
Lume is absolutely captivating. With a slow leisurely start that builds the world (masterfully, might I add) T.M. Ghent introduces a new book world to fall in love with. With unique weapons like shineguns, secret portals, and the clicks and gears that surround Lume, we are given a fun new sci-fi steampunk inspired novel to obsess over. Add some festivals and a castle, and I was sold.
I found myself in love with the descriptions in this book. It was something I could very easily visualize, but it also gave me room to imagine things on my own. Which is something I admire greatly in books.
Something else I found myself in love with?
Every MC, of which there are three!
Theodora is kind and strong willed, and walks a bit on the edge. She's not afraid to do what needs to be done. A fierce female role for sure, but not in a stereotypical way. Theodora was a refreshing take 🤩
Maddox owns my heart!! 😍 Tall, dark, and handsome! And so so smart. A calculating bad boy with an agenda you want to discover all the secrets of!
Rajveer is such a precious baby. A broken soul of a prince that just wants what's best, no matter how it must be accomplished. I adore him to pieces 🥰
I was enthralled with every character, curious about each one's lives, secrets, and more. There was a drive to this story that I cannot get over.
And the icing on the cake is the casual queerness. Something that no one bats an eye at. It just simply is. Definitely another reason to love the world of Lume.
I cannot recommend this book enough. And I cannot wait to hold a physical copy on my hands. I NEED book two already!!
Lume is absolutely captivating. With a slow leisurely start that builds the world (masterfully, might I add) T.M. Ghent introduces a new book world to fall in love with. With unique weapons like shineguns, secret portals, and the clicks and gears that surround Lume, we are given a fun new sci-fi steampunk inspired novel to obsess over. Add some festivals and a castle, and I was sold.
I found myself in love with the descriptions in this book. It was something I could very easily visualize, but it also gave me room to imagine things on my own. Which is something I admire greatly in books.
Something else I found myself in love with?
Every MC, of which there are three!
Theodora is kind and strong willed, and walks a bit on the edge. She's not afraid to do what needs to be done. A fierce female role for sure, but not in a stereotypical way. Theodora was a refreshing take 🤩
Maddox owns my heart!! 😍 Tall, dark, and handsome! And so so smart. A calculating bad boy with an agenda you want to discover all the secrets of!
Rajveer is such a precious baby. A broken soul of a prince that just wants what's best, no matter how it must be accomplished. I adore him to pieces 🥰
I was enthralled with every character, curious about each one's lives, secrets, and more. There was a drive to this story that I cannot get over.
And the icing on the cake is the casual queerness. Something that no one bats an eye at. It just simply is. Definitely another reason to love the world of Lume.
I cannot recommend this book enough. And I cannot wait to hold a physical copy on my hands. I NEED book two already!!
January 1, 2023
I am feeling so thrilled that I got to read this insanely awesome debut by T.M. Ghent. A beautiful dystopian, sci-fi, fantasy hybrid world with such well done and personably deep characters. I was sucked in from day 1 and hated the breaks I took away from this book, waiting for the minute I could dive back in.
WELL DONE T.M. GHENT 👏👏
WELL DONE T.M. GHENT 👏👏
Read
September 7, 2022A colourful story to fill your imagination. There’s a lot going on and a number of characters to get to know. Vivid descriptions of the setting allow you to fully immerse yourself in each scene.
There’s a small piece of exposition at around a third of the way through that explains the tension in the realm. I found this helpful for understanding the characters’ motivations more clearly.
Some of the terms (like those for time periods) confused me at first but I soon worked them out. I didn’t discover the glossary until I reached the end of the ebook; it would have been great if that had been positioned at the start, or even signposted more clearly - it’s a great idea and a big help!
There were a number of editing issues which made the story hard to follow at times, but I read an ARC prior to final edits, so I imagine these have been addressed in the finished version.
There’s a small piece of exposition at around a third of the way through that explains the tension in the realm. I found this helpful for understanding the characters’ motivations more clearly.
Some of the terms (like those for time periods) confused me at first but I soon worked them out. I didn’t discover the glossary until I reached the end of the ebook; it would have been great if that had been positioned at the start, or even signposted more clearly - it’s a great idea and a big help!
There were a number of editing issues which made the story hard to follow at times, but I read an ARC prior to final edits, so I imagine these have been addressed in the finished version.
February 13, 2022
Lume has such unique world set up! You get to follow Theodora, a girl with one foot in the kingdom and one foot in the mercenary world. Prince Rajveer the bored prince who wants to do more with his crown. And Maddox the mercenary for hire with hidden layers and talents. I'd say it's mostly sci-fi with a little fantasy mixed in.
I was lucky enough to Beta Read this and it was a 1 sit reading for me! I don't want to give any spoilers away but I will say it's exciting and I can't wait to see where she takes the story next! I'm Team Maddox because who doesn't love a morally grey character?! Each of the characters are complex and flawed and tragically broken. The end left me broken and wanting more!
An exciting debut!!
I was lucky enough to Beta Read this and it was a 1 sit reading for me! I don't want to give any spoilers away but I will say it's exciting and I can't wait to see where she takes the story next! I'm Team Maddox because who doesn't love a morally grey character?! Each of the characters are complex and flawed and tragically broken. The end left me broken and wanting more!
An exciting debut!!
December 14, 2022
If these things are your cup of tea, make sure you check out Lume!
Morally grey characters: check
Multiple POV: check
Fantastic world building: check
Plot twist: check
A scene that'll break you: check
I really enjoyed this slow build read to an ending that just makes me need book two right now! Full of complicated characters with unknown intentions, a murder plot and fantasy weapons… this book really had it all.
Morally grey characters: check
Multiple POV: check
Fantastic world building: check
Plot twist: check
A scene that'll break you: check
I really enjoyed this slow build read to an ending that just makes me need book two right now! Full of complicated characters with unknown intentions, a murder plot and fantasy weapons… this book really had it all.
April 30, 2023
By the fates, this book captured my soul.
From the start, the writing and worldbuilding struck me as utterly hypnotic. It gave me cyber-sleek medieval steampunk vibes, and it was wonderful — the descriptions of the weapons, the food, the culture, the language…utterly artful, seamless, masterful.
I also loved how it didn’t fall into some of the typical fantasy character dynamics but rather held the complexities of realistic relationships and flaws and uncertainties. I was kept guessing at each character’s motivations until the end, and even so I couldn’t predict that twist. The way I GASPED. Beautiful, horrible, and yet somehow right.
I can’t even start talking about the characters; they’re too good for words. I will say, though, that the handling of their emotions really struck me with resounding depth. The notions of grief and darkness and how they affect people in such different ways gave me such strong feels.
Also…jelly pop scene!!! That is all.
From the start, the writing and worldbuilding struck me as utterly hypnotic. It gave me cyber-sleek medieval steampunk vibes, and it was wonderful — the descriptions of the weapons, the food, the culture, the language…utterly artful, seamless, masterful.
I also loved how it didn’t fall into some of the typical fantasy character dynamics but rather held the complexities of realistic relationships and flaws and uncertainties. I was kept guessing at each character’s motivations until the end, and even so I couldn’t predict that twist. The way I GASPED. Beautiful, horrible, and yet somehow right.
I can’t even start talking about the characters; they’re too good for words. I will say, though, that the handling of their emotions really struck me with resounding depth. The notions of grief and darkness and how they affect people in such different ways gave me such strong feels.
Also…jelly pop scene!!! That is all.
Read
June 23, 2024For lovers of adult SciFi, Ghent creates a unique world with cool gadgets, political intrigue and a reluctant assassin.
**contains language & adult sexuality
Rajveer, Theodora and Maddox couldn’t be more different from each other but they join forces to bring peace between the capital of Lume and the rising revolt of the underground stronghold of Seculus.
My favorite character was Theodora. She’s tough, jaded and yet tempted by relentless hope.
I’ve added several flash crystals & a shinegun to my holiday wish list.
**contains language & adult sexuality
Rajveer, Theodora and Maddox couldn’t be more different from each other but they join forces to bring peace between the capital of Lume and the rising revolt of the underground stronghold of Seculus.
My favorite character was Theodora. She’s tough, jaded and yet tempted by relentless hope.
I’ve added several flash crystals & a shinegun to my holiday wish list.
November 7, 2022
This book sucked me in from the very beginning. I love the different POVs and the goals and stakes for each character. I was wrecked in the best possible way and I need book 2 immediately!
January 7, 2023
Wtf!!!!!!!! I'm mad at that end. It was good but I'm mad. Don't ignore the warning that Ghent is a tragedy writer cuz dam that end hurt.
The characters were great, some only until the dj, but they were great. It was only obvious the motivations of Raj and Theodora for why they wanted to do what they did (aka the big plot for the book) but it was kinda of vague why Maddox was involved. That totally changed by the end! At this point Theodora was my favorite in the end since she was clear in what she wanted and didn't attempt to be anything other than what she was. Which makes the end hurt so much more. Raj was just a mess and really his issues would have been solved if he did the one thing asked of him instead of concocting this elaborate plan. But of course it's all because of a girl that he couldn't do that. He should've realized what could happen when he started to doubt the plan.
Still, such a great book! The world is fascinating and seems like only more of it could be revealed in the next book. I really wanna see how much more is done with the Sec weapons and just what happens with that group. Also just what was Maddox's motivations and reasoning for that ending since he was so morally grey for a while. Hell I'm still not sure what his point was! I just really want an explanation for that end 😭 Anyways, I really need the next book asap!!!
The characters were great, some only until the dj, but they were great. It was only obvious the motivations of Raj and Theodora for why they wanted to do what they did (aka the big plot for the book) but it was kinda of vague why Maddox was involved. That totally changed by the end! At this point Theodora was my favorite in the end since she was clear in what she wanted and didn't attempt to be anything other than what she was. Which makes the end hurt so much more. Raj was just a mess and really his issues would have been solved if he did the one thing asked of him instead of concocting this elaborate plan. But of course it's all because of a girl that he couldn't do that. He should've realized what could happen when he started to doubt the plan.
Still, such a great book! The world is fascinating and seems like only more of it could be revealed in the next book. I really wanna see how much more is done with the Sec weapons and just what happens with that group. Also just what was Maddox's motivations and reasoning for that ending since he was so morally grey for a while. Hell I'm still not sure what his point was! I just really want an explanation for that end 😭 Anyways, I really need the next book asap!!!
January 6, 2023
Oh man. This was definitely one of those books that was a little outside my normal genre but just absolutely captivated me from the beginning.
T.M. Ghent has such a way with words and man, can she tell a story.
Think:
-The perfect mix of fantasy and sci-fi
-Characters that you are instantly drawn to, even with all their flaws
-A plot that keeps you guessing
-Fantastic writing. Ghent crafted a world and sucked me in in a way that was easy to follow, and I couldn’t get enough of it
-Beautiful world building
-That morally grey line we are all suckers for
-Multiple POVs that each bring so much to the table
I could go on and on. I was blown away by how invested in this story I was. It’s a fantastic read all around.
But can we talk about that twist and cliffhanger situation. I’m going to need Book 2 ASAP!
T.M. Ghent has such a way with words and man, can she tell a story.
Think:
-The perfect mix of fantasy and sci-fi
-Characters that you are instantly drawn to, even with all their flaws
-A plot that keeps you guessing
-Fantastic writing. Ghent crafted a world and sucked me in in a way that was easy to follow, and I couldn’t get enough of it
-Beautiful world building
-That morally grey line we are all suckers for
-Multiple POVs that each bring so much to the table
I could go on and on. I was blown away by how invested in this story I was. It’s a fantastic read all around.
But can we talk about that twist and cliffhanger situation. I’m going to need Book 2 ASAP!
January 6, 2023
I have to admit, Lume by TM Ghent to me a little to get into (maybe the first 15% or so), but once I got into the groove of the storytelling and the author’s way of writing I started enjoying it (plus the story started picking up). I really loved Theodora from the beginning and got a lot of the Six of Crows (first book) vibes from Maddox and his crew. I wasn’t sure what to think of Rajveer in the beginning, but he kind of grew on me. Although, I have to say, what the heck?? Talk about a cliffhanger!! This book was so good, and I devoured the last half in one sitting. I want to know what happens, and I’m also terrified because I know @tm_ghent is a fan of tragedies 😰. Lordy, I need book two of this duology stat. Also, can we take a moment and really appreciate the fact that the author gave us all a glossary for the terminology in her book? Because that was so nice!
January 7, 2023
Thank you to the author and Hidden Hollow Book Tours for sending me a copy of the book to review. This debut novel is perfect for fans of Mary Pearson, Tricia Levenseller, Brandon Sanderson.
This was an intriguing read with shocking revelations peppered throughout the book. It was an action packed page-turner. The world created was beautifully designed and exciting to discover.
A newly formed underground city begins a rebellion, threatening Lume's complacent king.
A Prince, content with a warm bed and a full glass, must choose between his family and his honor.
A Girl, buried beneath her past, must decide whether to risk everything she has for her dreams.
A Lawless, forged to be a leader among the rebels, must find a way to remain in control.
The characters were interesting to get to know about. Each character had a difficult part and a goal of their own. There were a lot of unknowns and secrets from the beginning that kinda let down the experience as we get to learn about the characters.
The world created here was exciting to learn. The system was incorporated well into the plot. Lume blurs the expectations of fantasy and science fiction into a creative blend featuring a new and exciting world.
This was an intriguing read with shocking revelations peppered throughout the book. It was an action packed page-turner. The world created was beautifully designed and exciting to discover.
A newly formed underground city begins a rebellion, threatening Lume's complacent king.
A Prince, content with a warm bed and a full glass, must choose between his family and his honor.
A Girl, buried beneath her past, must decide whether to risk everything she has for her dreams.
A Lawless, forged to be a leader among the rebels, must find a way to remain in control.
The characters were interesting to get to know about. Each character had a difficult part and a goal of their own. There were a lot of unknowns and secrets from the beginning that kinda let down the experience as we get to learn about the characters.
The world created here was exciting to learn. The system was incorporated well into the plot. Lume blurs the expectations of fantasy and science fiction into a creative blend featuring a new and exciting world.
December 24, 2022
Is this a fantasy book yes? Is this a sci-fi book? Also yes.
I love a good fantasy novel, and TM Ghent's debut novel did not dissapoint. The world building was done beautifully as she introduced us to her world, with it's unique economics, politics, and even different names for the seasons and the sun. Prince Rajveer hasn't had the easy life I think that most people assume he has. They think he's a spoiled prince, except that while he may have money, his father is emotionally unavailable and abusive. Theodora, our FMC is a strong independent lead but also has a vulnerability that she keeps locked away. Her ex-girlfriend, Danika, who is a satelle (think king's guard, or even a knight) was a brilliant way to show Theodora's growth.
There's also Maddox, which is a bit of a mystery, and love interest of Theodora's. They've known each other for most of their lives, and Theodora does her best to keep him and everyone else at a safe distance from her heart, but as they work together on a job for the prince she finds herself spending more time with him.
This duology leaves us hanging a bit at the end so fair warning...it's a "to be continued" type of ending. Definitely looking forward to book two to see how this all plays out.
I love a good fantasy novel, and TM Ghent's debut novel did not dissapoint. The world building was done beautifully as she introduced us to her world, with it's unique economics, politics, and even different names for the seasons and the sun. Prince Rajveer hasn't had the easy life I think that most people assume he has. They think he's a spoiled prince, except that while he may have money, his father is emotionally unavailable and abusive. Theodora, our FMC is a strong independent lead but also has a vulnerability that she keeps locked away. Her ex-girlfriend, Danika, who is a satelle (think king's guard, or even a knight) was a brilliant way to show Theodora's growth.
There's also Maddox, which is a bit of a mystery, and love interest of Theodora's. They've known each other for most of their lives, and Theodora does her best to keep him and everyone else at a safe distance from her heart, but as they work together on a job for the prince she finds herself spending more time with him.
This duology leaves us hanging a bit at the end so fair warning...it's a "to be continued" type of ending. Definitely looking forward to book two to see how this all plays out.
December 31, 2022
Okay can I just start this off by saying that it is not fair I don't have the second book to this AMAZING series!
If you want a book that pulls you in from the first page then this is your book! I was immediately super invested in the characters. And I loved them all. Flaws and all! I feel like in books you don't get to see many characters with flaws. So I liked that this was different and unique.
The world building. BEAUTIFUL. The crafted characters. BEAUTIFUL. A storyline that kept me guessing? You guessed right. BEAUTIFUL! And I'm going to say it again. I need more, I will never get enough from this amazing author!
If you want a book that pulls you in from the first page then this is your book! I was immediately super invested in the characters. And I loved them all. Flaws and all! I feel like in books you don't get to see many characters with flaws. So I liked that this was different and unique.
The world building. BEAUTIFUL. The crafted characters. BEAUTIFUL. A storyline that kept me guessing? You guessed right. BEAUTIFUL! And I'm going to say it again. I need more, I will never get enough from this amazing author!
January 7, 2023
I know the saying goes "Don't judge a book by its cover" but if you've been friends with me, you might know that I'm guilty of choosing books based on the cover.
This book was as AMAZING as the cover itself, the start seemed a tad bit slow (just a little, and this could just be a me thing) but the world building was 🤌🤌🤌
The characters too! It was hard to find a favourite because (to me) everyone was amazing in their own way.
I haven't read many steam punk books, but this really made me want to read more. I can't believe this is the author's debut. If the debut was this good, I can't wait to see what TM Ghent would do in the future.
This book was as AMAZING as the cover itself, the start seemed a tad bit slow (just a little, and this could just be a me thing) but the world building was 🤌🤌🤌
The characters too! It was hard to find a favourite because (to me) everyone was amazing in their own way.
I haven't read many steam punk books, but this really made me want to read more. I can't believe this is the author's debut. If the debut was this good, I can't wait to see what TM Ghent would do in the future.
December 13, 2022
This was SO hard to put down once I started. The characters and world are very well-developed, and it's so easy to get lost in it with Ghent's unique writing style. (Honestly, just try taking your time reading this, I bet you can't). Don't let the cover fool you - this is absolutely an adult book, with themes that some might find uncomfortable, but none of them were thrown in gratuitously, they all added to the story. Highly recommend for sci-fi lovers looking for a fresh, new read.
December 22, 2022
This novel was a great read. The characters were all created fantastically and edged on the morally grey which in turn made them complicated and perfectly flawed which made the story equally exciting to read.
The chapters were in multiple point of view, which is my favourite setting as I get to learn from all characters and see it through their eyes.
This novel had it all, the richly and enticing world building and a unique take on sci-fi steampunk.
A great story, which I really enjoyed.
The chapters were in multiple point of view, which is my favourite setting as I get to learn from all characters and see it through their eyes.
This novel had it all, the richly and enticing world building and a unique take on sci-fi steampunk.
A great story, which I really enjoyed.
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