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Gamin Immortals #1
Catch Lili Too
Lili is a Mesopotamian siren, and life as an immortal being is hard enough as it is. She’s asexual (which is incredibly difficult to reconcile if your entire point as a mythical being is to seduce people to death). She’s also struggling with depression from being alive for so long.
Lili is an absolutely shoddy improv-detective trying to track down a serial killer so ruthless that it makes even her murderous soul uneasy. However, there’s something larger at work than just one serial killer. A small town is hiding an even deadlier, global-scale secret. Forget Area 51 conspiracies. This one beats them all. With magic.
So, what better way to spice up her eternal life than being hired as a vigilante detective to stop a serial killer? Anything, literally anything. She’d trade her left lung to get out of this. Or, perhaps, somebody else’s.
Lili is an absolutely shoddy improv-detective trying to track down a serial killer so ruthless that it makes even her murderous soul uneasy. However, there’s something larger at work than just one serial killer. A small town is hiding an even deadlier, global-scale secret. Forget Area 51 conspiracies. This one beats them all. With magic.
So, what better way to spice up her eternal life than being hired as a vigilante detective to stop a serial killer? Anything, literally anything. She’d trade her left lung to get out of this. Or, perhaps, somebody else’s.
321 pages, ebook
First published November 16, 2020
6 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Whittemore
7 books93 followersSophie Mutiara Nova is a queer, half-Indonesian, SLE-diagnosed Writer-Director. (Writing Fellow of the ACEX TV Initiative, Finalist of the Emmy's TV Academy Foundation Directing Program). Their TV series have been awarded at the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards, ScreenCraft, and countless others; their film work's screened internationally. In publishing, their debut monster book CATCH LILI TOO was spotlighted by the Golden Crown Literary Society (known for honoring Allison Bechdel). Originally from Chicago, Sophie's now based in Los Angeles (Dartmouth College BFA & MFA Film Directing CalArts). When not writing or rocking out, they perform Indonesian traditional dance with Burat Wangi.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 11, 2020
3.50 Stars. This was an odd book but I enjoyed it anyway. It kind of reminded me as if Effie Calvin’s Daughter of the Sun had a baby with Casey Matthews’ The One Who Eats Monsters and ended up living in Charlaine Harris’ Midnight, Texas. While I’m using that to give people a slight idea of the feel, it was still weird, unique, and different enough from anything that I have read before. Sophie Whit’s imagination is impressive and I’m definitely intrigued to read more.
I’m a huge urban fantasy fans and I love when a book has such a wide range of supernatural characters. Sirens’, vamps, weres, witches, zombies, ghosts, and those were just the common supernaturals. There were also beings from myths and legends from other parts of the world. I love supernatural creatures and I have a pretty good encyclopedia of them going on in my head. But, from this book I actually learned a new being and a new name for a being I already knew. The geek in me loves this stuff so that made me a happy camper.
I was also happy with the diversity in this book. A woman who is still learning if she is ace or demi, a trans guy, a lesbian, and some gay and bi characters. There is a light and sweet MLM romance between secondary characters, and a WLW romance that is just at the beginning stages. I was a little disappointed that the WLW romance didn’t build more. While I like the two as a potential couple, I needed to see more feelings actually develop before they just announced that there were feelings between them. This was definitely a time that the book needed more show and less tell. I’m hoping this will be made up for in future books.
I didn’t really get into the premise yet but there is a ragtag crew of humans and monsters, that get together to hunt down a serial killer. Is the killer a human monster or a supernatural one? So while this book has some action and monster fights, this is also a bit of a murder mystery. The mystery was good because it hooks you right into the first pages of the book. And while you think you may know who the killer is, it is almost impossible not to question yourself over and over which was pretty fun.
As other reviewers have mentioned, I was not big on the ending either. It wasn’t bad or anything but I think the big climax most people were expecting was much smaller. It’s funny but the crew has a big fight scene a little over half way and that action scene was more exciting to me than the big finale was. I also was not crazy about a few things left hanging, but I noticed that this is a book one. I’m so happy that it clearly states that and knowing that this is a series, I know I will get my answers eventually.
This is an oddball book, which is pretty different, so I know it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. I would recommend this to fans of urban fantasy, paranormal, and mythology. The story is kind of weird but I think it’s the kind book that will stick with me for a while. I’m going to remember this and when book 2 comes out, I know I will be excited to read it.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
I’m a huge urban fantasy fans and I love when a book has such a wide range of supernatural characters. Sirens’, vamps, weres, witches, zombies, ghosts, and those were just the common supernaturals. There were also beings from myths and legends from other parts of the world. I love supernatural creatures and I have a pretty good encyclopedia of them going on in my head. But, from this book I actually learned a new being and a new name for a being I already knew. The geek in me loves this stuff so that made me a happy camper.
I was also happy with the diversity in this book. A woman who is still learning if she is ace or demi, a trans guy, a lesbian, and some gay and bi characters. There is a light and sweet MLM romance between secondary characters, and a WLW romance that is just at the beginning stages. I was a little disappointed that the WLW romance didn’t build more. While I like the two as a potential couple, I needed to see more feelings actually develop before they just announced that there were feelings between them. This was definitely a time that the book needed more show and less tell. I’m hoping this will be made up for in future books.
I didn’t really get into the premise yet but there is a ragtag crew of humans and monsters, that get together to hunt down a serial killer. Is the killer a human monster or a supernatural one? So while this book has some action and monster fights, this is also a bit of a murder mystery. The mystery was good because it hooks you right into the first pages of the book. And while you think you may know who the killer is, it is almost impossible not to question yourself over and over which was pretty fun.
As other reviewers have mentioned, I was not big on the ending either. It wasn’t bad or anything but I think the big climax most people were expecting was much smaller. It’s funny but the crew has a big fight scene a little over half way and that action scene was more exciting to me than the big finale was. I also was not crazy about a few things left hanging, but I noticed that this is a book one. I’m so happy that it clearly states that and knowing that this is a series, I know I will get my answers eventually.
This is an oddball book, which is pretty different, so I know it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. I would recommend this to fans of urban fantasy, paranormal, and mythology. The story is kind of weird but I think it’s the kind book that will stick with me for a while. I’m going to remember this and when book 2 comes out, I know I will be excited to read it.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
December 21, 2021
Oh Lili why?!?! I want to know how things pan out!!! Why does it end there?!?! What about Jo?!?! Ugh… I really super enjoyed that, but wish it wasn’t left off with so many questions!! I really must have another book, a sequel to be exact. Immediately would be preferable, but I guess as long as I know it’s coming everything will be fine…
So I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this one, but what I wasn’t prepared for was how interesting and funny this was. I was finding myself giggling and basically chortling uncontrollably. I don’t know if you’ve ever seen someone chortle, but it’s not a good look. Just sayin… anyway, this was seriously humorous and I couldn’t help but be into the witty and sometimes goofy jokes. They were right up my alley when it comes to humor.
This was also very intriguing. I’m honestly not that much of a curious person by nature, but I was still dying to know who did what. And for once, I dug the unreliable narrator. Most of the time an unreliable narrator drives me insane, but this time it was well done and I really enjoyed that hazy aspect of this book.
The characters were easy to relate to, well, most of them, and I enjoyed getting to know them. Which is why I’m very into a sequel. If that could happen stat, that’d be great. So I recommend this to those who like supernatural mysteries with action, friendship, found family, a little mythology, and a pinch of love. Such a good read!! Oh also this is lgbtqia friendly, so whoot whoot!!!
Thanks so much to the author, Sophie Whittemore, for the opportunity to read this for my honest and unbiased opinion.
So I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this one, but what I wasn’t prepared for was how interesting and funny this was. I was finding myself giggling and basically chortling uncontrollably. I don’t know if you’ve ever seen someone chortle, but it’s not a good look. Just sayin… anyway, this was seriously humorous and I couldn’t help but be into the witty and sometimes goofy jokes. They were right up my alley when it comes to humor.
This was also very intriguing. I’m honestly not that much of a curious person by nature, but I was still dying to know who did what. And for once, I dug the unreliable narrator. Most of the time an unreliable narrator drives me insane, but this time it was well done and I really enjoyed that hazy aspect of this book.
The characters were easy to relate to, well, most of them, and I enjoyed getting to know them. Which is why I’m very into a sequel. If that could happen stat, that’d be great. So I recommend this to those who like supernatural mysteries with action, friendship, found family, a little mythology, and a pinch of love. Such a good read!! Oh also this is lgbtqia friendly, so whoot whoot!!!
Thanks so much to the author, Sophie Whittemore, for the opportunity to read this for my honest and unbiased opinion.
January 7, 2021
Catch Lili Too is wonderfully weird, with a Buffy/Wynonna Earp vibe. It’s grisly and gory and super fun.
For reasons she can’t explain, Lili, an asexual Siren struggling with depression, finds herself investigating multiple murders in a small town called Gamin, after discovering a brand new ghost in the room she was about to stay in at the local inn. Even though she’s committed her fair share of horrible crimes – hence the depression, the serial killer she’s looking for terrifies her more than she wants to admit. Maybe because in the process, she inadvertently started caring for the motley crew of locals she’s stuck with: the ghost, the inn teenage owners (a trans necromancer with ADHD and his lesbian sister), and others on the way. Diversity is key, in gender/sexual orientation as well as in supernatural and undead creatures: besides the Siren and the ghost, there are necromancers, a vampire, a shapeshifter, a gangshi, witches…
This book is so different from what I’m used to – and I read in most genres – that I’m not sure how to explain why I enjoyed it so much. There’s a lot of action, some soul-searching, the beginning of what could be a really sweet romance, unexpectedly lovable characters and a fantastic sense of humour.
Catch Lili Too was going to be 5* until a few chapters before the end when I felt it starting to drag a little. It got a bit too serious, forgetting the humour that made is so delightful until then. Despite this, I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
For reasons she can’t explain, Lili, an asexual Siren struggling with depression, finds herself investigating multiple murders in a small town called Gamin, after discovering a brand new ghost in the room she was about to stay in at the local inn. Even though she’s committed her fair share of horrible crimes – hence the depression, the serial killer she’s looking for terrifies her more than she wants to admit. Maybe because in the process, she inadvertently started caring for the motley crew of locals she’s stuck with: the ghost, the inn teenage owners (a trans necromancer with ADHD and his lesbian sister), and others on the way. Diversity is key, in gender/sexual orientation as well as in supernatural and undead creatures: besides the Siren and the ghost, there are necromancers, a vampire, a shapeshifter, a gangshi, witches…
This book is so different from what I’m used to – and I read in most genres – that I’m not sure how to explain why I enjoyed it so much. There’s a lot of action, some soul-searching, the beginning of what could be a really sweet romance, unexpectedly lovable characters and a fantastic sense of humour.
Catch Lili Too was going to be 5* until a few chapters before the end when I felt it starting to drag a little. It got a bit too serious, forgetting the humour that made is so delightful until then. Despite this, I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 29, 2021
Content warnings: death, blood, gore, cancer, murder, HP reference, attempted arson, drug abuse, vaping, alcohol (recreational)
This is a whimsical story with a very funny and entertaining narrative. I love all the jokes threaded throughout even though a lot of important things were happening and I couldn’t really keep up with them all. I do think there are scenes that do not line up or are a tad bit confusing, but that might just be an ARC issue.
Told in the first-person POV, the story follows an immortal, asexual, depressed Siren, Lili, who is haunted by her past and sick and tired of living, seducing people, and killing. Yes, you read that correctly: an asexual Siren. She arrived at Gamin after two murders of humans—a young girl Anna Snow and a poet Byron López (gay). After stumbling upon Byron’s body and his ghost (whom she fails to seduce because, ta-da, he’s gay), Lili is persuaded to help the town solve this murder mystery. But then supernatural beings start getting murdered, too.
I love all the random references to everything paranormal, mythologies from around the world, pop culture, etc. They are funny and ridiculous, and even in a dreadful and horrifying crisis like having an unknown killer in town, the main characters don’t lose their spirits, jokes, or attempts of having fun in life. There are Biblical references that work well with the theme, too.
Oh, how precious are the mystical misfits:
Lili, the depressed asexual Siren with her deadpanned narration filled with sullen jokes,
Byron López, the gay, Mexican-American ghost who carries a note pad to write poems,
Jason Sweeney, the buff transguy who is an eager necromancer and co-owns the Sweeney Inn with his twin sister,
Patty Sweeney, the sapphic twin sister of Jason’s,
Detective Ikiaq, an Ijiraq, and
Jo Kim, a jiangshi who died from cancer.
This mismatched group forms a lovely found family even though they don’t completely trust each other. But in a time where a serial monster killer is running loose, stay together to keep each other safe. And I just love how pure that is!
I did not anticipate the story to have romance subplots but was pleasantly surprised to find both sapphic and achillean relationships develop (albeit very quickly) during the murder mystery. Despite all the morbidness of the theme, there were cute moments and a lot of hilarious scenes.
Catch Lili Too is a paranormal story with a predominately queer cast and little to no queerphobia. It has a wonderful mix of morosity and humor, and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
I received a digital copy from NineStar Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a whimsical story with a very funny and entertaining narrative. I love all the jokes threaded throughout even though a lot of important things were happening and I couldn’t really keep up with them all. I do think there are scenes that do not line up or are a tad bit confusing, but that might just be an ARC issue.
Told in the first-person POV, the story follows an immortal, asexual, depressed Siren, Lili, who is haunted by her past and sick and tired of living, seducing people, and killing. Yes, you read that correctly: an asexual Siren. She arrived at Gamin after two murders of humans—a young girl Anna Snow and a poet Byron López (gay). After stumbling upon Byron’s body and his ghost (whom she fails to seduce because, ta-da, he’s gay), Lili is persuaded to help the town solve this murder mystery. But then supernatural beings start getting murdered, too.
I love all the random references to everything paranormal, mythologies from around the world, pop culture, etc. They are funny and ridiculous, and even in a dreadful and horrifying crisis like having an unknown killer in town, the main characters don’t lose their spirits, jokes, or attempts of having fun in life. There are Biblical references that work well with the theme, too.
Oh, how precious are the mystical misfits:
Lili, the depressed asexual Siren with her deadpanned narration filled with sullen jokes,
Byron López, the gay, Mexican-American ghost who carries a note pad to write poems,
Jason Sweeney, the buff transguy who is an eager necromancer and co-owns the Sweeney Inn with his twin sister,
Patty Sweeney, the sapphic twin sister of Jason’s,
Detective Ikiaq, an Ijiraq, and
Jo Kim, a jiangshi who died from cancer.
This mismatched group forms a lovely found family even though they don’t completely trust each other. But in a time where a serial monster killer is running loose, stay together to keep each other safe. And I just love how pure that is!
I did not anticipate the story to have romance subplots but was pleasantly surprised to find both sapphic and achillean relationships develop (albeit very quickly) during the murder mystery. Despite all the morbidness of the theme, there were cute moments and a lot of hilarious scenes.
Catch Lili Too is a paranormal story with a predominately queer cast and little to no queerphobia. It has a wonderful mix of morosity and humor, and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
I received a digital copy from NineStar Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2021
I received a free review copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
3.5/5
Lili is a Mesopotamian siren, and she's a depressed asexual immortal. Lili is struggling to deal with her existential dread so when she stumbles upon a murdered ghost, she begrudgingly decides to solve his murder. Lili ends up with two necromancers on her team after Jason crashes her investigation. But things are more dangerous than they could've imagined in Gamin, something larger is at work than just one serial killer. But can this ragtag group solve it?
I have so many mixed feelings about this book. And most of them stem from it mainly needing another round of edits. There were a couple times the pacing, or the dialogue or the character relationships felt so off that it took me out of the story. It would be a small comment or thought and I'd be very confused as to how we got to wherever the characters were in that scene.
This book was super diverse with LGBTQIAP+ charaters, POC characters and the various types of immortals that show up. The immortals were definitely my favorite part, I loved that this small town had become a type of monster haven. Detective Ikiaq was definitely my #1 character. There was something so calming and reassured about him that I loved. Which is funny because Lili is probably the oldest one of the bunch, but half the time she acts like a spoiled teenager.
I'd be interested to read the sequel. I like the world and I'm curious about what will happen next.
CW for multiple HP references throughout the story.
3.5/5
Lili is a Mesopotamian siren, and she's a depressed asexual immortal. Lili is struggling to deal with her existential dread so when she stumbles upon a murdered ghost, she begrudgingly decides to solve his murder. Lili ends up with two necromancers on her team after Jason crashes her investigation. But things are more dangerous than they could've imagined in Gamin, something larger is at work than just one serial killer. But can this ragtag group solve it?
I have so many mixed feelings about this book. And most of them stem from it mainly needing another round of edits. There were a couple times the pacing, or the dialogue or the character relationships felt so off that it took me out of the story. It would be a small comment or thought and I'd be very confused as to how we got to wherever the characters were in that scene.
This book was super diverse with LGBTQIAP+ charaters, POC characters and the various types of immortals that show up. The immortals were definitely my favorite part, I loved that this small town had become a type of monster haven. Detective Ikiaq was definitely my #1 character. There was something so calming and reassured about him that I loved. Which is funny because Lili is probably the oldest one of the bunch, but half the time she acts like a spoiled teenager.
I'd be interested to read the sequel. I like the world and I'm curious about what will happen next.
CW for multiple HP references throughout the story.
December 24, 2020
I have received this book from Shut Up & Read in exchange for an honest review.
Catch Lili Too was so much fun to read. Even though I'm a little late in reviewing for Shut Up and Read right now.. I finally finished the book. I tried to take my time devouring this.. really, I did. Yet, I just couldn't seem to put the book down. Or my phone since it was an ebook.
This book alone introduces you to so many different characters. There's a siren, necromancer, gangshi, witch, ghosts, and so much more. Then there's Lili, who was just completely entertaining throughout the entire book. I just loved her from the very first second of meeting her. Plus the references made throughout this book just made me laugh so hard.
Besides getting to see different characters, there's also a ton of lgbtq+ representation. Seriously, so much and I loved it all. It was interesting to see how one of the characters was learning who she was throughout the book, ace or demi. Personally, I've never had to go through that and I know that people are constantly trying to figure things out - so it was nice to see this happening in the book. Just so I could learn more about it.
Other than that, the ending was okay. I kind of wanted something more? I also feel like some of the relationships could've developed a bit more as well. So I'm hoping that things will go deeper or have more growth in the second book? Maybe?
Catch Lili Too was so much fun to read. Even though I'm a little late in reviewing for Shut Up and Read right now.. I finally finished the book. I tried to take my time devouring this.. really, I did. Yet, I just couldn't seem to put the book down. Or my phone since it was an ebook.
This book alone introduces you to so many different characters. There's a siren, necromancer, gangshi, witch, ghosts, and so much more. Then there's Lili, who was just completely entertaining throughout the entire book. I just loved her from the very first second of meeting her. Plus the references made throughout this book just made me laugh so hard.
Besides getting to see different characters, there's also a ton of lgbtq+ representation. Seriously, so much and I loved it all. It was interesting to see how one of the characters was learning who she was throughout the book, ace or demi. Personally, I've never had to go through that and I know that people are constantly trying to figure things out - so it was nice to see this happening in the book. Just so I could learn more about it.
Other than that, the ending was okay. I kind of wanted something more? I also feel like some of the relationships could've developed a bit more as well. So I'm hoping that things will go deeper or have more growth in the second book? Maybe?
November 20, 2020
Review to come! This was fun, I loved the sense of humour and the feeling of found family! It was a bit clunky in places, and the ending didn't come together as smoothly as I would have liked, but I had fun! Lots and lots of representation here which is always lovely.
November 17, 2020
Catch Lili Too is irreverent, amusing, and captivating. The first chapter had me holding my breath - and from there I was intrigued. Such an unlikely cast of characters working together to try and stop a killer, and I loved them all. I don't want to give anything away, but the cheekiness and diversity made me giggle regularly, and I can't recommend this enough!
January 31, 2021
DNFed at 40%.
This was decidedly underwhelming... I am not sure where all the raving 5 star reviews come from. Yes, we have gay characters and even a trans character, but other than that sexual orientation, they have no personalities. I am not giving stars for inclusion, I'm giving stars for believable characters and good stories.
For an immortal Siren, Lili sure loves to talk smack and think that she is better / more powerful than anyone else. She looks down on a necromancer, she is condescending to a brand new ghost who already figured out how to move things around. Her whole narrative is that she is more baddass than all of them... yet she hasn't done anything remoty baddass and awe inspiring yet, and I'm halfway through the book. She just gets dragged along and whines about it.
Nothing is happening, even the search for the serial killer, in any type of hurry. And that particular investigation could have been done better by a pair of blind, deaf mute 5 year olds than by our group of protagonists. Ugh.
I was looking for a new UF series, but this is decidedly not for me.
This was decidedly underwhelming... I am not sure where all the raving 5 star reviews come from. Yes, we have gay characters and even a trans character, but other than that sexual orientation, they have no personalities. I am not giving stars for inclusion, I'm giving stars for believable characters and good stories.
For an immortal Siren, Lili sure loves to talk smack and think that she is better / more powerful than anyone else. She looks down on a necromancer, she is condescending to a brand new ghost who already figured out how to move things around. Her whole narrative is that she is more baddass than all of them... yet she hasn't done anything remoty baddass and awe inspiring yet, and I'm halfway through the book. She just gets dragged along and whines about it.
Nothing is happening, even the search for the serial killer, in any type of hurry. And that particular investigation could have been done better by a pair of blind, deaf mute 5 year olds than by our group of protagonists. Ugh.
I was looking for a new UF series, but this is decidedly not for me.
November 17, 2020
Thanks to the author for providing an eARC of Catch Lili Too in exchange for an honest review.
Sirens & asexuality is such a smart pair of identities to mix and I'm so surprised I've never seen it done before. Whittemore's Lili is a siren like you've never seen them before and she was a delight to read. Catch Lili Too is part urban-fantasy, part-found family, part whodunnit, and part coming of age (yes, even super natural beings go through those). My favorite part was honestly watching all the characters interact. They all bounce off of each other in ways that feel both humorous and authentic and I loved watching our unlikely detective squad assemble.
My main wish comes with plot pacing. Once our whodunnit is revealed, I feel like what should have been a big final battle scene was really anticlimactic and should have been given more page space. All in all though, this was a uniquely fun genre-meshing read.
Sirens & asexuality is such a smart pair of identities to mix and I'm so surprised I've never seen it done before. Whittemore's Lili is a siren like you've never seen them before and she was a delight to read. Catch Lili Too is part urban-fantasy, part-found family, part whodunnit, and part coming of age (yes, even super natural beings go through those). My favorite part was honestly watching all the characters interact. They all bounce off of each other in ways that feel both humorous and authentic and I loved watching our unlikely detective squad assemble.
My main wish comes with plot pacing. Once our whodunnit is revealed, I feel like what should have been a big final battle scene was really anticlimactic and should have been given more page space. All in all though, this was a uniquely fun genre-meshing read.
November 26, 2020
Catch Lili Too is incredibly captivating and I couldn't put it down. I love mythology and when I saw this was a book about a Siren who's ace, I didn't even have to think.
It was fascinating to see so many different kinds of mythological beings in a single book. A Siren, a necromancer, a gangshi, a witch, a shapeshifter and a ghost. I love all their interactions and the team dynamics. Lili and her band of queer mythical beings! It is found family at it's best.
The book is mix of urban fantasy, detective mystery and a bit of romance. The entire novel is from Lili's POV and it was fun to read from the perspective of someone who thinks she's an unreliable narrator. (and also break the fourth wall)
She's also unexpectedly funny, with this sort of cheeky and dry humour that's exactly my cup of tea. I love all the pop culture and nerdy references (the BTS💜 one made me happy)
The ending might have been a bit abrupt but this is the first in the series and I'm definitely excited for the next book. If you love action, FF romance, mystery, found family and a diverse cast of characters, then I'd highly recommend this book.
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
It was fascinating to see so many different kinds of mythological beings in a single book. A Siren, a necromancer, a gangshi, a witch, a shapeshifter and a ghost. I love all their interactions and the team dynamics. Lili and her band of queer mythical beings! It is found family at it's best.
The book is mix of urban fantasy, detective mystery and a bit of romance. The entire novel is from Lili's POV and it was fun to read from the perspective of someone who thinks she's an unreliable narrator. (and also break the fourth wall)
She's also unexpectedly funny, with this sort of cheeky and dry humour that's exactly my cup of tea. I love all the pop culture and nerdy references (the BTS💜 one made me happy)
The ending might have been a bit abrupt but this is the first in the series and I'm definitely excited for the next book. If you love action, FF romance, mystery, found family and a diverse cast of characters, then I'd highly recommend this book.
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
December 5, 2020
Catch Lili Too is the first book in Sophie Whittemore’s Gamin Immortals series, and it certainly has me curious to see what else the series will bring. I’ll confess, it took me a while to be pulled into this one. The way everything came together toward the end, however, made it well worth it.
Catch Lili Too is a must-read for fans of sirens, especially those that want to see a twist that I’ve never seen done before. The fact I’ve never seen it done before surprises me, though, as sirens and asexuality make for an intriguing mix. It’s not the only interesting mix to be found in this book. Catch Lili Too is filled with representation, mixing things together in ways that bring the known together in unique ways. With plenty packed throughout the pages – fantasy, whodunnit, coming of age, and more – this one ensures you’re desperate to see how everything comes together.
Without a doubt, Catch Lili Too introduces readers to a world that leaves you eager for more.
Catch Lili Too is a must-read for fans of sirens, especially those that want to see a twist that I’ve never seen done before. The fact I’ve never seen it done before surprises me, though, as sirens and asexuality make for an intriguing mix. It’s not the only interesting mix to be found in this book. Catch Lili Too is filled with representation, mixing things together in ways that bring the known together in unique ways. With plenty packed throughout the pages – fantasy, whodunnit, coming of age, and more – this one ensures you’re desperate to see how everything comes together.
Without a doubt, Catch Lili Too introduces readers to a world that leaves you eager for more.
December 5, 2020
This book was such a fun and wild ride! It had some of my favorite tropes of found family and characters with contradictory characteristics. First, the story is told by Lili who is an asexual/demisexual siren. Then there's a gay ghost who is a poet, named Byron, but not that Byron. Then there's a trans necromance who passes out at the sight of blood. The rep in this was wide-ranging and so exciting to see. Not just on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, but also the POC spectrum and mental health as well. Lili has depression and this book doesn't shy away from showing the reality of that, which I appreciated and I felt like it strengthened her character rather being a weakness.
The monsters and myths that were woven into this story were mostly non-western which was really cool to see. Usually, when you have a town full of monsters in the Midwest of the USA it's very western heavy, and I thought it was a nice touch that it wasn't the case for this one.
The mystery and the dark humor in this one really kept me engaged and I was eager to see how everything played out. I will say the pacing was a little strange at times and there was a lot of telling not showing, so time seemed to jump at weird times. And the ending wasn't as clear as I'd hoped it would be. But I genuinely enjoyed watching these characters interact and watching Lili find herself in this story. There were so many moments in this book that had me cackling with laughter. Lili's dark humor made this a truly enjoyable read! I definitely recommend this one!
I was provided a free eARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
__________________
Representation: asexual/demisexual, trans, lesbian, gay, POC, mental health (depression & ADHD) rep
Content Warnings: graphic violence, the death of a secondary character, suicide, murder, cancer, references to mental illness
*And because it's a trigger to many LGBTQIA+ folx, and because it's more than just one line, I want to note that there are many Harry Potter references in this one*
The monsters and myths that were woven into this story were mostly non-western which was really cool to see. Usually, when you have a town full of monsters in the Midwest of the USA it's very western heavy, and I thought it was a nice touch that it wasn't the case for this one.
The mystery and the dark humor in this one really kept me engaged and I was eager to see how everything played out. I will say the pacing was a little strange at times and there was a lot of telling not showing, so time seemed to jump at weird times. And the ending wasn't as clear as I'd hoped it would be. But I genuinely enjoyed watching these characters interact and watching Lili find herself in this story. There were so many moments in this book that had me cackling with laughter. Lili's dark humor made this a truly enjoyable read! I definitely recommend this one!
I was provided a free eARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
__________________
Representation: asexual/demisexual, trans, lesbian, gay, POC, mental health (depression & ADHD) rep
Content Warnings: graphic violence, the death of a secondary character, suicide, murder, cancer, references to mental illness
*And because it's a trigger to many LGBTQIA+ folx, and because it's more than just one line, I want to note that there are many Harry Potter references in this one*
December 10, 2020
Go Catch This Book! At least, if you're in the mood for a wild ride of a lifetime. Catch Lili Too feels exactly like that: a fast ride down a widely curvy road, with scenery blurring on both sides if you happen to glance out the window. Be careful, though, because the navigator of this journey is a jaded, life-weary siren who hates to be touched. Get the irony? Yep, and you'll get really used to it because author Sophie Whit has stuffed their very fun and just a little bit freaky fantastical punk whodunnit full of these kinds of laugh-out-loud ironic bits. Also included are plenty of nodding references to world mythology and religions. Whit pulls from everywhere, drawing connections and bringing together universal themes of immortality, the meaning of life, and protecting the innocent.
Catch Lili Too is not a short read, but is the type of story I enjoy most by racing through the pages. It doesn't make sense to stop along the way and contemplate what might happen next. You just won't be able to imagine. Besides, more important than what happens action-wise is what happens character-wise. Even with a lot of violence and creepiness tossed into the mix, this is really a sweet tale of acceptance and building community. Just watch out for your heart: Lili might decide she wants to eat it!
Catch Lili Too is not a short read, but is the type of story I enjoy most by racing through the pages. It doesn't make sense to stop along the way and contemplate what might happen next. You just won't be able to imagine. Besides, more important than what happens action-wise is what happens character-wise. Even with a lot of violence and creepiness tossed into the mix, this is really a sweet tale of acceptance and building community. Just watch out for your heart: Lili might decide she wants to eat it!
November 24, 2020
*I received a free review copy in exchange for an honest review of this book.
Catch Lili Too is a magical murder mystery concerned with mythology, memory, and mortality. It has a respect for death, a complicated relationship with life, and just the right amount of gore.
The way this book centers the so-called "monstrous" characters and others the humans by default was really well done. It centers the MC's perspective by showing how she thinks with a minimum of translation between her perspective and a human one. I know it's not a new idea to hypothesize that humans are the monsters after all, or some variation on that idea, but this does it in a way that brings everyone, magical, mythical, monstrous, and mundane alike into a middle zone where they all could be capable of anything (including the murders) but are choosing to work together.
I loved the characterization, both of the MC and the secondary characters, it was so good. There was space for characters to assert things about themselves, then figure out something new and grow a little without it wholly throwing off their characterization up until then. The pace at which new secondary characters were added felt really good, just as I got a handle on the dynamics between the current cast there would be a new person or two in a way that made the whole ensemble feel better. The tension of having a mostly reliable narrator who is convinced she’s an unreliable narrator was an unexpected treat. The MC knows she can’t remember everything, and while she doesn’t actually lie to the reader, there’s a continual worry that we might be missing information or misled because she doesn’t know something she ought to know. This was especially welcome in a murder mystery novel.
The ending made me want more, which is good since this is the first in a series, but at first it felt a little rushed. As I was getting towards the 90% mark in the book I was wondering how everything was going to wrap up because I felt like there was a lot to explain, and then it happened kind of abruptly and everything was clear in very short order. Given what the ending is I think it worked, but it's definitely a slow burn that just needed one final piece of info to make sense and resolve everything, rather than a book with a lot of loose ends to tie up. It made me feel like I need to re-read the whole thing and look for clues I missed earlier, but not in a confusing way.
CW for gore, blood, graphic violence, the death of a secondary character, suicide, murder, cancer, references to mental illness.
Catch Lili Too is a magical murder mystery concerned with mythology, memory, and mortality. It has a respect for death, a complicated relationship with life, and just the right amount of gore.
The way this book centers the so-called "monstrous" characters and others the humans by default was really well done. It centers the MC's perspective by showing how she thinks with a minimum of translation between her perspective and a human one. I know it's not a new idea to hypothesize that humans are the monsters after all, or some variation on that idea, but this does it in a way that brings everyone, magical, mythical, monstrous, and mundane alike into a middle zone where they all could be capable of anything (including the murders) but are choosing to work together.
I loved the characterization, both of the MC and the secondary characters, it was so good. There was space for characters to assert things about themselves, then figure out something new and grow a little without it wholly throwing off their characterization up until then. The pace at which new secondary characters were added felt really good, just as I got a handle on the dynamics between the current cast there would be a new person or two in a way that made the whole ensemble feel better. The tension of having a mostly reliable narrator who is convinced she’s an unreliable narrator was an unexpected treat. The MC knows she can’t remember everything, and while she doesn’t actually lie to the reader, there’s a continual worry that we might be missing information or misled because she doesn’t know something she ought to know. This was especially welcome in a murder mystery novel.
The ending made me want more, which is good since this is the first in a series, but at first it felt a little rushed. As I was getting towards the 90% mark in the book I was wondering how everything was going to wrap up because I felt like there was a lot to explain, and then it happened kind of abruptly and everything was clear in very short order. Given what the ending is I think it worked, but it's definitely a slow burn that just needed one final piece of info to make sense and resolve everything, rather than a book with a lot of loose ends to tie up. It made me feel like I need to re-read the whole thing and look for clues I missed earlier, but not in a confusing way.
CW for gore, blood, graphic violence, the death of a secondary character, suicide, murder, cancer, references to mental illness.
December 26, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Catch Lili Too is the first book in a new paranormal series, the Gamin Immortals, and introduces a plethora of paranormal characters I haven’t seen before. It’s a series that focus on the so-called monsters, such as Lili, who feeds on human hearts (though a pig heart will do in a pinch), or Jo, who needs human souls to survive.
Lili is a siren without a memory. She has flashes of the past, but, for the most part, she ignores them. After so many centuries, after so many murders, after so much living, she’s tired. Tired of the dreams, the memories, the knowledge of what she is and what she’s done, and she’s no longer interested in the past. She finds it hard enough to be interested in the present. She’s also asexual, which is unusual in a siren, a monstrous race known for its seduction techniques.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Catch Lili Too is the first book in a new paranormal series, the Gamin Immortals, and introduces a plethora of paranormal characters I haven’t seen before. It’s a series that focus on the so-called monsters, such as Lili, who feeds on human hearts (though a pig heart will do in a pinch), or Jo, who needs human souls to survive.
Lili is a siren without a memory. She has flashes of the past, but, for the most part, she ignores them. After so many centuries, after so many murders, after so much living, she’s tired. Tired of the dreams, the memories, the knowledge of what she is and what she’s done, and she’s no longer interested in the past. She finds it hard enough to be interested in the present. She’s also asexual, which is unusual in a siren, a monstrous race known for its seduction techniques.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
December 23, 2020
I recieved a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
TW: gore, blood, graphic violence, the death of a secondary character, suicide, murder, cancer, references to mental illness
This book came as a nice change to what I had been reading until this one. Not because it is so different it isn't, but because it was so entertaining and captivating, and I didn't want to put it down.
I loved all the different mythological characters there were in this book, which made the cast a little unexpected, but very enjoyable. But despite all these characters we only read from one characters perspective, which is a nice surprise, and I love how our main character thinks she is a unreliable narrator.
This is the first book in a series I feel could have a lot of potential, however I cannot fail to mention the ending felt abrupt and I wish the author decided to extend a little bit more the book, maybe a couple more pages would've made a differnce in creating a better ending for the first book. I honestly can't wait to see where this series is heading and hope it continues on track.
May 7, 2022
Decided to read this book bc I wanted something different and well that sure WAS that.
The writing isn't my favourite and it felt like it could use some more editing BUT!!! After getting used to it, I actually started to enjoy it. The whole murder mysterz/monster found family / depressed immortal seemed interesting enough and the story progresses swiftly.
However, about halfway through the plot starts getting off the rails and the final chapters are just one big "what the fuck is happening".
Not a fan of Lili being some ancient anti-creation goddess, it felt forced and didn't really improve the plot.
Also the entire time we were reminded how strong she is throughout the book but she barley uses her powers. Also why is eating people such a big deal in the first few chapters when she can live off animal meat just fine lmao
In general the cast felt a bit too big.
Great idea, wonky execution, not really recommended.
The writing isn't my favourite and it felt like it could use some more editing BUT!!! After getting used to it, I actually started to enjoy it. The whole murder mysterz/monster found family / depressed immortal seemed interesting enough and the story progresses swiftly.
However, about halfway through the plot starts getting off the rails and the final chapters are just one big "what the fuck is happening".
Not a fan of Lili being some ancient anti-creation goddess, it felt forced and didn't really improve the plot.
Also the entire time we were reminded how strong she is throughout the book but she barley uses her powers. Also why is eating people such a big deal in the first few chapters when she can live off animal meat just fine lmao
In general the cast felt a bit too big.
Great idea, wonky execution, not really recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2020
Sophie Whittemore creates their own world in Minnesota and I do not want to live there. Just saying. Whittemore’s descriptions are creepy and otherworldly in Catch Lili Too. I want to echo Byron’s, then Lili’s, and freaking everyone else’s, “Why would you go there?!”
Whittemore compiles their own Scooby gang and what a cast of characters we have. Let’s run a quick rundown: Byron the gay poltergeist, Jason the trans necromancer with ADHD, Jo the Asian lesbian ghoul, Ikiaq the Indigenous Inuit shapeshifter, and rounding out the gang is the newly powere Patty the lesbian witch. Oh and let’s not forget the “how did I get myself into this?” leader Lili who is an asexual Siren. Talk about a diverse cast of characters. Do not worry, Whittemore adds more to this collective, but they also take some away. Be forewarned.
Catch Lili Too is told through Lili’s point-of-view and Whittemore breaks the fourth-wall by having Lili talk directly to us which is amusing. Plus Whittemore has some of the funniest chapter headings for this story and it matches Lili’s voice perfectly.
The story seems simple enough as it is about a tired and depressed immortal who does not know whether she wants to live to see another day when they are all the same. Lili is just passing through Gamin when she runs across the first dead body...and then somehow ends up finding another and another until she is investigating the murders with a rag-tag and quickly growing team. It sounds so simple, but Whittemore makes it so delicious.
I was hooked. Gamin has vampires, witches, zombies, and more. This is not a place you want to be for Halloween. Whittemore needs to write more about our “Scooby Gang” as I cannot get enough. Action. Romance. Diversity. Blood. Lots of blood. Catch Lili Too is a book you want to seek your teeth into...or claws - either way works. Just read the first book in the “Gamin Immortals” series and meet the gang so you recognize them when they knock on your door.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
Whittemore compiles their own Scooby gang and what a cast of characters we have. Let’s run a quick rundown: Byron the gay poltergeist, Jason the trans necromancer with ADHD, Jo the Asian lesbian ghoul, Ikiaq the Indigenous Inuit shapeshifter, and rounding out the gang is the newly powere Patty the lesbian witch. Oh and let’s not forget the “how did I get myself into this?” leader Lili who is an asexual Siren. Talk about a diverse cast of characters. Do not worry, Whittemore adds more to this collective, but they also take some away. Be forewarned.
Catch Lili Too is told through Lili’s point-of-view and Whittemore breaks the fourth-wall by having Lili talk directly to us which is amusing. Plus Whittemore has some of the funniest chapter headings for this story and it matches Lili’s voice perfectly.
The story seems simple enough as it is about a tired and depressed immortal who does not know whether she wants to live to see another day when they are all the same. Lili is just passing through Gamin when she runs across the first dead body...and then somehow ends up finding another and another until she is investigating the murders with a rag-tag and quickly growing team. It sounds so simple, but Whittemore makes it so delicious.
I was hooked. Gamin has vampires, witches, zombies, and more. This is not a place you want to be for Halloween. Whittemore needs to write more about our “Scooby Gang” as I cannot get enough. Action. Romance. Diversity. Blood. Lots of blood. Catch Lili Too is a book you want to seek your teeth into...or claws - either way works. Just read the first book in the “Gamin Immortals” series and meet the gang so you recognize them when they knock on your door.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
December 1, 2020
review up on my blog! find it here:
http://colourmeread.com/catch-lili-too/
http://colourmeread.com/catch-lili-too/
April 30, 2021
Received an ARC through NetGalley; actual rating 3.5
I knew this one was going to be special when I saw the title - a play on 'lilitu', a siren/succubus-esque creature from Sumerian mythology. It promised that a) the author was going to draw on myths we don't see utilised for urban fantasy very often, and b) there would be plenty of tongue-in-cheek moments.
And Catch Lili Too delivered!
I admit that the beginning felt a little heavy on the info-dumping, but once the basics had been established the book moved along quickly, balancing the explanations with action very well. And although I'm almost never a fan of first-person present-tense, I really loved Lili's voice and felt that the present-tense really helped to keep the story moving and make it more immersive for the reader. It's always a nice surprise when an author can make you enjoy something you usually don't!
All in all Catch Lili Too is a pretty fun, very diverse urban fantasy, an easy, light read that draws from myths that will be new to most readers. Definitely recommended for urban fantasy fans or anyone tired of reading about the same handful of myths and monsters over and over again.
I knew this one was going to be special when I saw the title - a play on 'lilitu', a siren/succubus-esque creature from Sumerian mythology. It promised that a) the author was going to draw on myths we don't see utilised for urban fantasy very often, and b) there would be plenty of tongue-in-cheek moments.
And Catch Lili Too delivered!
I admit that the beginning felt a little heavy on the info-dumping, but once the basics had been established the book moved along quickly, balancing the explanations with action very well. And although I'm almost never a fan of first-person present-tense, I really loved Lili's voice and felt that the present-tense really helped to keep the story moving and make it more immersive for the reader. It's always a nice surprise when an author can make you enjoy something you usually don't!
All in all Catch Lili Too is a pretty fun, very diverse urban fantasy, an easy, light read that draws from myths that will be new to most readers. Definitely recommended for urban fantasy fans or anyone tired of reading about the same handful of myths and monsters over and over again.
August 21, 2021
“Catch Lili Too” introduces Lili, an immortal siren, as she finds herself in a depressive state and just trying to hide away from the world. But the world has other plans, as Lili is drawn into trying to catch a serial killer by her impromptu ghost friend Byron.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I will say that it is not going to be for everyone as the story itself is quite out there. It also happens to be filled with a huge amount of mythical creatures and a protagonist that is sarcastic and funny in a dark way that carries throughout the storytelling. But that’s why I liked it. The little touches of jokes about places the characters could be besides the Sweeney Inn or the ghost rants in Spanish…it made the story unique and interesting. Even the premise of Lili being an asexual siren is ironic and intriguing. I also didn’t mind the ending, although I thought that it felt a little rushed and wish that the clues would have revealed themselves more throughout the story instead all at once. I see how the author established a world and set it up for future stories. My only complaint about the book is that portions of it were a little hard to follow. Characters were introduced partially or just dropped into scenes. It was also challenging at times understanding what the point of a scene was, especially in the middle of the book. I enjoyed the ride though and look forward to reading more by this author.
The full blog post can be found here: https://heatherlbarksdale.com/blog/bl...
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I will say that it is not going to be for everyone as the story itself is quite out there. It also happens to be filled with a huge amount of mythical creatures and a protagonist that is sarcastic and funny in a dark way that carries throughout the storytelling. But that’s why I liked it. The little touches of jokes about places the characters could be besides the Sweeney Inn or the ghost rants in Spanish…it made the story unique and interesting. Even the premise of Lili being an asexual siren is ironic and intriguing. I also didn’t mind the ending, although I thought that it felt a little rushed and wish that the clues would have revealed themselves more throughout the story instead all at once. I see how the author established a world and set it up for future stories. My only complaint about the book is that portions of it were a little hard to follow. Characters were introduced partially or just dropped into scenes. It was also challenging at times understanding what the point of a scene was, especially in the middle of the book. I enjoyed the ride though and look forward to reading more by this author.
The full blog post can be found here: https://heatherlbarksdale.com/blog/bl...
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
March 11, 2021
I was approached by the author Sophie if I would read their book in exchange for an honest review and of course I agreed!
“To those who taught me how to love – both internally and externally. To those who have magic in their veins and stories in their blood. You’re all stars.”
Lili is a siren, a creature that is partly human and renowned for luring sailors to their doom with their magical signing voices. She is immortal.
“Catch me if you can, Lili.
Or I’ll catch you.”
Being asexual doesn’t exactly help when it comes to seducing people to their death so when you have to do it for the rest of your afterlife, it’s not an easy occupation.
“Humans can be monsters too.”
But being immortal comes at a price and for Lili, that’s depression.
“Does it get any easier?…Does forever get any easier?”
There’s a serial killer afoot. Targeting the immortal and the un-human, Lili won’t be the only mystical being you’ll meet on this journey!
“How can you save the world if you couldn’t even save yourself?”
But there’s something about this serial killer that is ruthless to the extent that even Lili’s own murderous soul is made to feel a little bit uneasy.
“Just because others suffer, doesn’t make your suffering any less…”
This small town is hiding an even bigger secret, bigger than the secrets seen at Area 51 level! This one is full of magic but not in the Harry Potter kind.
“We all need some sort of coping mechanism with the world we live in.”
Lili then finds herself with a new job – she’s been hired as a vigilante detective to put an end to the serial killers spree, something to spice up her immortality!
“No one has the right to diminish the others existence.”
Right from the off, this book is filled to the brim with humour and sarcasm mixed along with some home truths and whole host of magic and mystical beings. From ghosts to necromancers, this book has it all!
“The only truly unnatural thing about this world is how easily humans mess it up.”
It covers topics that may not be spoken about in this day and age; from asexuality, demisexuality, homosexuality and transexuality to cancer, depression, global warming and endometriosis there are so many topics that this book covers but not in a scary ‘let’s sit down and have a serious chat’ kind of way. The book covers these topics in a unique way by incorporating sarcasm into the mix and making it as light hearted as possible and also by just sneaking them into conversation rather than making a big deal of it! It’s really clever!
“Yes, death. Death must be so beautiful. To lie in the soft brown earth, with the grasses waving above one’s head, and listen to silence. To have no yesterday, and no tomorrow. To forget time, to forget life, to be at peace. You can help me. You can open for me the portals of death’s house, for love is always with you, and love is stronger than death is.”
Oscar Wilde
“To those who taught me how to love – both internally and externally. To those who have magic in their veins and stories in their blood. You’re all stars.”
Lili is a siren, a creature that is partly human and renowned for luring sailors to their doom with their magical signing voices. She is immortal.
“Catch me if you can, Lili.
Or I’ll catch you.”
Being asexual doesn’t exactly help when it comes to seducing people to their death so when you have to do it for the rest of your afterlife, it’s not an easy occupation.
“Humans can be monsters too.”
But being immortal comes at a price and for Lili, that’s depression.
“Does it get any easier?…Does forever get any easier?”
There’s a serial killer afoot. Targeting the immortal and the un-human, Lili won’t be the only mystical being you’ll meet on this journey!
“How can you save the world if you couldn’t even save yourself?”
But there’s something about this serial killer that is ruthless to the extent that even Lili’s own murderous soul is made to feel a little bit uneasy.
“Just because others suffer, doesn’t make your suffering any less…”
This small town is hiding an even bigger secret, bigger than the secrets seen at Area 51 level! This one is full of magic but not in the Harry Potter kind.
“We all need some sort of coping mechanism with the world we live in.”
Lili then finds herself with a new job – she’s been hired as a vigilante detective to put an end to the serial killers spree, something to spice up her immortality!
“No one has the right to diminish the others existence.”
Right from the off, this book is filled to the brim with humour and sarcasm mixed along with some home truths and whole host of magic and mystical beings. From ghosts to necromancers, this book has it all!
“The only truly unnatural thing about this world is how easily humans mess it up.”
It covers topics that may not be spoken about in this day and age; from asexuality, demisexuality, homosexuality and transexuality to cancer, depression, global warming and endometriosis there are so many topics that this book covers but not in a scary ‘let’s sit down and have a serious chat’ kind of way. The book covers these topics in a unique way by incorporating sarcasm into the mix and making it as light hearted as possible and also by just sneaking them into conversation rather than making a big deal of it! It’s really clever!
“Yes, death. Death must be so beautiful. To lie in the soft brown earth, with the grasses waving above one’s head, and listen to silence. To have no yesterday, and no tomorrow. To forget time, to forget life, to be at peace. You can help me. You can open for me the portals of death’s house, for love is always with you, and love is stronger than death is.”
Oscar Wilde
January 25, 2021
Catch Lili Too is an urban fantasy in which anything considered remotely monstrous can be found. Whittemore draws from legend to populate her novel, ranging from Greek myths to Indigenous folktales for inspiration. The novel is part fantasy, part mystery; it's a detective story woven into a contrasting tapestry of mobile phones and blood drinking.
The story is simple: Lili, a siren, arrives in a small town to find a dead poet in her hotel room and a taunt directed at her. She teams up with the magical locals to track down the killer. The story twists and turns until finally coming to a enthralling conclusion.
I really enjoyed the broad range of characters and the backgrounds they came from. Some of the myths I had never heard of before. Each character was unique, standing out amongst the others, especially the protagonist. Lili is a snarky yet depressed immortal who just wants to be left alone but is dragged kicking and screaming into this mystery.
Novels with large casts tend to struggle with balancing appearances, particularly if there's a definite lead character, and Catch Lili Too is no exception. As the character list grows, the novel tips towards scenes with only the protagonist, with the rest of the cast making excuses to stay out of the action. By the time the climax rolls around, we're left with only Lili and the antagonist. This is a common problem in books with casts larger than six, but it doesn't detract from the finale.
Catch Lili Too is a myriad of genres and legends that somehow works. Packed with LGBT+ representation and witty remarks, it's perfect for anyone interested in supernatural detectives and the struggles of being immortal.
The story is simple: Lili, a siren, arrives in a small town to find a dead poet in her hotel room and a taunt directed at her. She teams up with the magical locals to track down the killer. The story twists and turns until finally coming to a enthralling conclusion.
I really enjoyed the broad range of characters and the backgrounds they came from. Some of the myths I had never heard of before. Each character was unique, standing out amongst the others, especially the protagonist. Lili is a snarky yet depressed immortal who just wants to be left alone but is dragged kicking and screaming into this mystery.
Novels with large casts tend to struggle with balancing appearances, particularly if there's a definite lead character, and Catch Lili Too is no exception. As the character list grows, the novel tips towards scenes with only the protagonist, with the rest of the cast making excuses to stay out of the action. By the time the climax rolls around, we're left with only Lili and the antagonist. This is a common problem in books with casts larger than six, but it doesn't detract from the finale.
Catch Lili Too is a myriad of genres and legends that somehow works. Packed with LGBT+ representation and witty remarks, it's perfect for anyone interested in supernatural detectives and the struggles of being immortal.
February 1, 2021
*Disclaimer – I received free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Catch Lili Too is a dark fantasy horror story with as many monsters as it has twists and turns. With a sympathetic and flawed protagonist, just human enough to engage with, but with clear supernatural abilities and appetites, the reader is drawn into an emotional story filled with philosophical and moral ambiguities. The ingenuity of an asexual siren and the complications that that would entail makes for a striking premise and one that keeps you turning the page until you are lost in the character of Lili herself.
Filled with diverse and queer characters, Catch Lili Too is very much a modern story that caters to a modern and diverse audience. A book like this brings ancient histories and creatures into the twenty first century and Whittemore does so with skill and creativity. My only qualm with the book is that there are ordinary mortals throughout with no special abilities, but they are very rarely seen. Some interactions between the ordinary townsfolk and the monsters and humans with extra abilities, would have been a great contrast to see within the story. However, Catch Lili Too is an entertaining and thought provoking book, with plenty of dark magic, hidden mysteries, and unshakeable friendships.
Catch Lili Too is a modern book steeped in history and mythology with a monster for every type of reader.
Catch Lili Too is a dark fantasy horror story with as many monsters as it has twists and turns. With a sympathetic and flawed protagonist, just human enough to engage with, but with clear supernatural abilities and appetites, the reader is drawn into an emotional story filled with philosophical and moral ambiguities. The ingenuity of an asexual siren and the complications that that would entail makes for a striking premise and one that keeps you turning the page until you are lost in the character of Lili herself.
Filled with diverse and queer characters, Catch Lili Too is very much a modern story that caters to a modern and diverse audience. A book like this brings ancient histories and creatures into the twenty first century and Whittemore does so with skill and creativity. My only qualm with the book is that there are ordinary mortals throughout with no special abilities, but they are very rarely seen. Some interactions between the ordinary townsfolk and the monsters and humans with extra abilities, would have been a great contrast to see within the story. However, Catch Lili Too is an entertaining and thought provoking book, with plenty of dark magic, hidden mysteries, and unshakeable friendships.
Catch Lili Too is a modern book steeped in history and mythology with a monster for every type of reader.
August 20, 2023
What a strange little book, 3.5* rounded up, a mysterious and intriguing YA read. Despite not really being my kind of book and I wasn’t really enjoying reading, I still kept going and found myself still wanting to know more about Lili and dig my teeth into the meaning behind this story.
A very poetic book chock full of riddles, really nicely laid out and all flows very well to read.
I love Lilis narrative, she’s witty and cynical and sarcastic. Her personality really shines through and I really wanted to find out more about her and her past.
A bunch of kids teaming up with and befriending an ancient immortal siren- also in the form of a kid- playing detective and running around a small town trying to catch a murderer. Far too many potential suspects to figure out who the killer is, I did think I had it sussed only to find out at the last minute I was completely wrong. A little slow and clean for me, but still a pleasant read.
Good representation of asexual, LGBT and mental health issues, although a few parts made me cringe.
The writing was fair, although a lot of simple sentences and lacking structure at the start. Charismatic and fun, with an original and interesting plot and the dialogue flows well, showing personality in the characters.
I wasn’t planning on reading the next book but after finishing this one I can’t help but feel like I HAVE to keep reading to find out more about Lili and the gang, and what happens next…
A very poetic book chock full of riddles, really nicely laid out and all flows very well to read.
I love Lilis narrative, she’s witty and cynical and sarcastic. Her personality really shines through and I really wanted to find out more about her and her past.
A bunch of kids teaming up with and befriending an ancient immortal siren- also in the form of a kid- playing detective and running around a small town trying to catch a murderer. Far too many potential suspects to figure out who the killer is, I did think I had it sussed only to find out at the last minute I was completely wrong. A little slow and clean for me, but still a pleasant read.
Good representation of asexual, LGBT and mental health issues, although a few parts made me cringe.
The writing was fair, although a lot of simple sentences and lacking structure at the start. Charismatic and fun, with an original and interesting plot and the dialogue flows well, showing personality in the characters.
I wasn’t planning on reading the next book but after finishing this one I can’t help but feel like I HAVE to keep reading to find out more about Lili and the gang, and what happens next…
January 5, 2021
I got an arc of this book for an honest review from Netgalley.
This book was amazing. I absolutely loved every minute of it. There are not a lot of books out there that feature asexual characters so when I saw this book featured an asexual siren I just knew I had to read it. And let me tell you this book did not disappoint.
This book is what a series like True Blood failed to be. It's a cool mystery featuring creatures that are in all different types of cultures. This makes the world of the book feel very rich and deep. Plus it was nice that not all the cultures featured were euro centric.
Lili though was the star of the book for me. I identified with her so much. While immortal she still suffers from very human problems. She is tired of people only see her for her beauty and suffers from depression. But she is also a compassionate person who cares about the people she meets. I really loved her.
The rest of the cast was also great. I really adored them all. Byron was amazing. Patty and Jason were the cutest sibling duo that I have read in a while. And while he joins the party a little later on Detective Ikiaq was a great addition as well.
If you are looking to read a cool interesting paranormal fantasy that is filled with good LGBTQ+ representation then I highly suggest this book!
This book was amazing. I absolutely loved every minute of it. There are not a lot of books out there that feature asexual characters so when I saw this book featured an asexual siren I just knew I had to read it. And let me tell you this book did not disappoint.
This book is what a series like True Blood failed to be. It's a cool mystery featuring creatures that are in all different types of cultures. This makes the world of the book feel very rich and deep. Plus it was nice that not all the cultures featured were euro centric.
Lili though was the star of the book for me. I identified with her so much. While immortal she still suffers from very human problems. She is tired of people only see her for her beauty and suffers from depression. But she is also a compassionate person who cares about the people she meets. I really loved her.
The rest of the cast was also great. I really adored them all. Byron was amazing. Patty and Jason were the cutest sibling duo that I have read in a while. And while he joins the party a little later on Detective Ikiaq was a great addition as well.
If you are looking to read a cool interesting paranormal fantasy that is filled with good LGBTQ+ representation then I highly suggest this book!
February 12, 2021
I had this ARC on my TBR pile since November last year, and I am so mad at myself for not starting it sooner. I loved the book so much even if sometimes I got a tad confused. I am very bad at remembering names, and there were a lot of characters involved. Despite all of this, the book did get me out of a reading slump, and it also stamped itself on my mind!
The first thing that caught my attention (and the main reason why I accepted the request), was the cast. I have to admit; it did not disappoint! Lili, the main character, is an asexual siren. This is especially interesting because, in Greek mythology, sirens were known for alluring sailors to their death. They were known for you know, their seductive abilities. On top of that, Lili is also depressed, and throughout the book you, find her wondering what to do with her immortality. Along with Lili, we also encounter a transgender necromancer, an Asian lesbian jiangshi (basically vampires from the Japanese folklore), a ghost poet, a gay poltergeist, an indigenous shapeshifter, and also another lesbian, but this time make them a witch.
FULL REVIEW ON DAILY DOSE OF BOOKS: https://dailydoseofbooks.com/2021/02/...
The first thing that caught my attention (and the main reason why I accepted the request), was the cast. I have to admit; it did not disappoint! Lili, the main character, is an asexual siren. This is especially interesting because, in Greek mythology, sirens were known for alluring sailors to their death. They were known for you know, their seductive abilities. On top of that, Lili is also depressed, and throughout the book you, find her wondering what to do with her immortality. Along with Lili, we also encounter a transgender necromancer, an Asian lesbian jiangshi (basically vampires from the Japanese folklore), a ghost poet, a gay poltergeist, an indigenous shapeshifter, and also another lesbian, but this time make them a witch.
FULL REVIEW ON DAILY DOSE OF BOOKS: https://dailydoseofbooks.com/2021/02/...
November 25, 2020
Thank you to NineStar Press and NetGalley for the ARC!
Catch Lili Too was a delight-- an ace sapphic siren, a murder mystery, found family, and a cast of unforgettable characters sure to stick in minds. While there was one reveal that I was unsurprised by (and I think other readers will be too) there are certainly others that are delightful surprises.
Lili is depressed. And God, does her depression feel real. If Sophie hasn't had personal experience, they've certainly done a great amount of research into it, and it's heavy, and there. Lili picks up a handful of friends, all while pretending she doesn't want them, and isn't that so much the dream?
Gamin is a mysterious town that seems to drag in immortals and magical beings, much to Lili's confusion: she can't remember why she's there, or a reason why she's staying, until she makes her friends: Byron, the gay poltergeist (no, not that Byron), the siblings Jason (trans necromancer) and Patty (lesbian witch), Jo the jiangshi, and Ikiaq the ijiraq. There's a romance there that's beautifully done and balanced, with Lili's sexuality taken into full consideration and handled greatly. I can't wait to meet those in the next book!
Catch Lili Too was a delight-- an ace sapphic siren, a murder mystery, found family, and a cast of unforgettable characters sure to stick in minds. While there was one reveal that I was unsurprised by (and I think other readers will be too) there are certainly others that are delightful surprises.
Lili is depressed. And God, does her depression feel real. If Sophie hasn't had personal experience, they've certainly done a great amount of research into it, and it's heavy, and there. Lili picks up a handful of friends, all while pretending she doesn't want them, and isn't that so much the dream?
Gamin is a mysterious town that seems to drag in immortals and magical beings, much to Lili's confusion: she can't remember why she's there, or a reason why she's staying, until she makes her friends: Byron, the gay poltergeist (no, not that Byron), the siblings Jason (trans necromancer) and Patty (lesbian witch), Jo the jiangshi, and Ikiaq the ijiraq. There's a romance there that's beautifully done and balanced, with Lili's sexuality taken into full consideration and handled greatly. I can't wait to meet those in the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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