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The Luminaut Trilogy #1
World Diver
College, grades, extracurriculars--who cares? Sixteen-year-old slacker Callie James would rather make robot creations and surf waves with her best friend Will.
Then she discovers a mysterious glowing rod under the ocean surface, and her entire world turns upside down.
One, her hands start glowing (weird). Two, she can now control people (awkward). Three, she accidentally brings her robotics project to life, and now he’s literally eating her homework.
Only the reclusive Dr. Ormandi knows the truth: Callie is a Luminaut and it's her destiny to reunite the shattered multiverse by collecting the glowing Light Cores on different worlds. But first, she must repair the World Diver, a fifty-foot tall dimension-hopping robot.
Then Nate crash lands into her life. He's hot. Funny. Crazy about her. One problem: he's technically dead. Oh, and he insists her quest will destroy everything.
Hunted by murderous interdimensional phantoms and plagued by insecurities, Callie must protect her family and friends, plus figure out who to trust.
And all before a deadly evil snuffs out her Light for good.
A sassy YA science fantasy with adventure, STEM, a side of romance, and an adorable robot.
Then she discovers a mysterious glowing rod under the ocean surface, and her entire world turns upside down.
One, her hands start glowing (weird). Two, she can now control people (awkward). Three, she accidentally brings her robotics project to life, and now he’s literally eating her homework.
Only the reclusive Dr. Ormandi knows the truth: Callie is a Luminaut and it's her destiny to reunite the shattered multiverse by collecting the glowing Light Cores on different worlds. But first, she must repair the World Diver, a fifty-foot tall dimension-hopping robot.
Then Nate crash lands into her life. He's hot. Funny. Crazy about her. One problem: he's technically dead. Oh, and he insists her quest will destroy everything.
Hunted by murderous interdimensional phantoms and plagued by insecurities, Callie must protect her family and friends, plus figure out who to trust.
And all before a deadly evil snuffs out her Light for good.
A sassy YA science fantasy with adventure, STEM, a side of romance, and an adorable robot.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2021
163 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 23, 2021
VIDEO REVIEW ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/tv/CN-JdCHj...
THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD!!
Like, I can't even right now! I am MASSIVE feels and emotions and THAT CLIFFHANGER!!
I'm not even sure of the last time I read a novel where I couldn't grab up the sequel ASAP, but that is seriously what I need right now! Like GAH!
Callie's voice is so vibrant and many times I found myself laughing out loud at her thoughts, but equally I found myself leaning in to my Kindle trying to will my encouragement to reach her! And can we take a moment to talk about how she works on robots and loves STEM? Heck yeah! We need more female characters like Callie!
And let's talk about Nate…but what do I even say? Let's just say Nate will take readers on a ride that is like a roller coaster. LOL! He put m pin case of denial and pleading that certain things wouldn't happen. LOL!
I really loved Callie's best friend! He is SO sweet and loved his growth as a side character! Jase however might be one of my favorite side characters because he has some great growth too! Plus, I just really liked Jase even though he could be a major jerk at times.
So I'm unsure if the author herself is a Christian or not, but there were times I really felt the talk about Light spoke to my heart on a faith level. There was a quote of having to make the decision to choose Light *intentionally* one day (or not choose it), and I'm not sure why, but it really spoke to me. Also, some things that Callie tells Nate about truth and Light equally spoke to me and as a Christian, it made me want to treasure the Light Jesus has put in my heart. It made me realize that the Light He's put in me is special and is meant to be treasured and meant to shine too.
Overall, this book is ASTOUNDING! It took me on an adventure I absolutely loved and is one I know I want to reread because it's just a fun story! It has snark, high school drama, slight Star Wars vibes, and a main character who loves robots and makes big choices despite if she feels ready or not.
Highly recommend this YA read!
*(I received an e-ARC from the publisher. All thoughts expressed are my own and was not required to write a positive review.)*
THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD!!
Like, I can't even right now! I am MASSIVE feels and emotions and THAT CLIFFHANGER!!
I'm not even sure of the last time I read a novel where I couldn't grab up the sequel ASAP, but that is seriously what I need right now! Like GAH!
Callie's voice is so vibrant and many times I found myself laughing out loud at her thoughts, but equally I found myself leaning in to my Kindle trying to will my encouragement to reach her! And can we take a moment to talk about how she works on robots and loves STEM? Heck yeah! We need more female characters like Callie!
And let's talk about Nate…but what do I even say? Let's just say Nate will take readers on a ride that is like a roller coaster. LOL! He put m pin case of denial and pleading that certain things wouldn't happen. LOL!
I really loved Callie's best friend! He is SO sweet and loved his growth as a side character! Jase however might be one of my favorite side characters because he has some great growth too! Plus, I just really liked Jase even though he could be a major jerk at times.
So I'm unsure if the author herself is a Christian or not, but there were times I really felt the talk about Light spoke to my heart on a faith level. There was a quote of having to make the decision to choose Light *intentionally* one day (or not choose it), and I'm not sure why, but it really spoke to me. Also, some things that Callie tells Nate about truth and Light equally spoke to me and as a Christian, it made me want to treasure the Light Jesus has put in my heart. It made me realize that the Light He's put in me is special and is meant to be treasured and meant to shine too.
Overall, this book is ASTOUNDING! It took me on an adventure I absolutely loved and is one I know I want to reread because it's just a fun story! It has snark, high school drama, slight Star Wars vibes, and a main character who loves robots and makes big choices despite if she feels ready or not.
Highly recommend this YA read!
*(I received an e-ARC from the publisher. All thoughts expressed are my own and was not required to write a positive review.)*
February 15, 2023
One of the best YA SciFi books I've read in a long time.
The blurb of World Diver promises 'a sassy YA science fantasy with adventure, STEM, a side of romance, and an adorable robot.' And it delivers in spades.
This first book in The Luminaut trilogy had me hooked from the very first page and kept me there, at the edge of my seat, till the very end - when I dove straight into the sequel. Not only because of that steep cliffhanger that would have had me cussing like a sailor had I not had said sequel close at hand. Might have done that anyway when finishing that sequel (*cough*) because book 3 isn't out already and I badly, BADLY want to know what happens next!!
But I digress, so back to book 1.
World Diver is the story of 16 year old Callie, whose life is completely turned upside down after discovering a mysterious glowing rod while surfing. The 'glow stick of doom' as Callie aptly dubs it, marks the beginning of an adventure that is bound to have any reader glued to the pages and unwilling to set the book down.
Because come on! How often is it that you come across a baby mech with an attitude who goes by the name of Nemo and behaves more or less like a cute little puppy or a hissy cat instead of the stiff little science project it's supposed to be! Nemo is the absolute BEST! And yes! I do wish he were mine!! All day! Every day! :D
Then we have Diver too. The big gentle giant as sweet as it gets and just as amazing in his own way. Nemo and Diver stole the show. Two freaking awesome robots you can't help but love!
But they alone wouldn't warrant the said 'glued to the pages' part. This book is way more.
A smoothly flowing narrative, great humour and cheeky banter, sarcasm of the best kind; a unique and intriguing premise, beautifully drawn and fleshed out characters, fast paced action, and a gripping plot - this book has it all. It's light and fun, a pleasure to read.
The high school drama was a tad too much for my taste, but then I'm already in my forties, so not the intended audience per se. It will probably be just right for the younger readers out there.
Apart from that, no complaints whatsoever. World Diver is fantastic and I'll be looking for a paperback to add to my shelves and probably reread often.
Happy reading Bookdragons
and
'remember to seek the Light, even in the Darkest places.'
The blurb of World Diver promises 'a sassy YA science fantasy with adventure, STEM, a side of romance, and an adorable robot.' And it delivers in spades.
This first book in The Luminaut trilogy had me hooked from the very first page and kept me there, at the edge of my seat, till the very end - when I dove straight into the sequel. Not only because of that steep cliffhanger that would have had me cussing like a sailor had I not had said sequel close at hand. Might have done that anyway when finishing that sequel (*cough*) because book 3 isn't out already and I badly, BADLY want to know what happens next!!
But I digress, so back to book 1.
World Diver is the story of 16 year old Callie, whose life is completely turned upside down after discovering a mysterious glowing rod while surfing. The 'glow stick of doom' as Callie aptly dubs it, marks the beginning of an adventure that is bound to have any reader glued to the pages and unwilling to set the book down.
Because come on! How often is it that you come across a baby mech with an attitude who goes by the name of Nemo and behaves more or less like a cute little puppy or a hissy cat instead of the stiff little science project it's supposed to be! Nemo is the absolute BEST! And yes! I do wish he were mine!! All day! Every day! :D
Then we have Diver too. The big gentle giant as sweet as it gets and just as amazing in his own way. Nemo and Diver stole the show. Two freaking awesome robots you can't help but love!
But they alone wouldn't warrant the said 'glued to the pages' part. This book is way more.
A smoothly flowing narrative, great humour and cheeky banter, sarcasm of the best kind; a unique and intriguing premise, beautifully drawn and fleshed out characters, fast paced action, and a gripping plot - this book has it all. It's light and fun, a pleasure to read.
The high school drama was a tad too much for my taste, but then I'm already in my forties, so not the intended audience per se. It will probably be just right for the younger readers out there.
Apart from that, no complaints whatsoever. World Diver is fantastic and I'll be looking for a paperback to add to my shelves and probably reread often.
Happy reading Bookdragons
and
'remember to seek the Light, even in the Darkest places.'
April 18, 2023
The moment I read this book's blurb, I knew I'd found my new favorite book. The voice was stunning and witty, and the plot was outstandingly creative. But still, I underestimated just how MUCH I would love it. From the moment I "dove" in, I was hooked on Callie's voice. She's so relatable, and her references are spot-on. What drew me in next was the world building. Oh my goodness, the world building. It's like The Iron Giant meets Spider-Man: Homecoming with a dash of Star Wars.
So…basically if you like self-aware main characters, sarcasm, freaking amazing world building, realistic families, adorable sentient robot pets, and some complicated (but not annoying) teen drama…WORLD DIVER is for you.
P.S. If anyone wants to start a Luminaut fandom let me know XP
My Endorsement:
“Dive into the multiverse of Haylie Hanson’s Luminaut Trilogy if you’re looking for a hilarious, rip-roaring adventure filled with STEM girls, messy teens, sassy pet robots, light wizards, and sarcastic ghost boys. It’s The Iron Giant meets Spider-Man: Homecoming with a dash of Star Wars, and you don’t want to miss out.”
So…basically if you like self-aware main characters, sarcasm, freaking amazing world building, realistic families, adorable sentient robot pets, and some complicated (but not annoying) teen drama…WORLD DIVER is for you.
P.S. If anyone wants to start a Luminaut fandom let me know XP
My Endorsement:
“Dive into the multiverse of Haylie Hanson’s Luminaut Trilogy if you’re looking for a hilarious, rip-roaring adventure filled with STEM girls, messy teens, sassy pet robots, light wizards, and sarcastic ghost boys. It’s The Iron Giant meets Spider-Man: Homecoming with a dash of Star Wars, and you don’t want to miss out.”
June 15, 2023
This book is just fantastic. I mean, ADORABLE BABY ROBOT WHO SHREDS PAPER. STEM surfer girl. Giant sweet robot (I’ve seen him compared to Baymax). Much snark. Multiverse. Glow stick of doom. Relatable inner monologue. HOT GHOST. (Swoon.) Do I even need to say any more???
I did already know the main plot twist before reading, not because I guessed it but because (oops) I helped reveal the cover for book two a while back and had to read the synopsis. (My bad.) But WD was still so gripping despite my previous knowledge, and I didn’t WANT the plot twist to be real.
I was a little irritated with Will for how he was acting but was glad he figured things out in the end. Because I have dealt with unrequited love multiple times and yes, it sucks, but they’re not obligated to like you back. :P again, glad he apologized and made up with Callie and they became chill again.
But seriously. NEMO THE BABY ROBOT. I LOVE HIM SO MUCH. He makes me think of Movie Toothless. I want a dog/cat-like baby robot!!!
I cannot wait to dive (*wink wink*) into Light Hunter. ;) (I sure am glad they’re all out because this one has a big cliffhanger and I’ve heard book two does too.)
I did already know the main plot twist before reading, not because I guessed it but because (oops) I helped reveal the cover for book two a while back and had to read the synopsis. (My bad.) But WD was still so gripping despite my previous knowledge, and I didn’t WANT the plot twist to be real.
I was a little irritated with Will for how he was acting but was glad he figured things out in the end. Because I have dealt with unrequited love multiple times and yes, it sucks, but they’re not obligated to like you back. :P again, glad he apologized and made up with Callie and they became chill again.
But seriously. NEMO THE BABY ROBOT. I LOVE HIM SO MUCH. He makes me think of Movie Toothless. I want a dog/cat-like baby robot!!!
I cannot wait to dive (*wink wink*) into Light Hunter. ;) (I sure am glad they’re all out because this one has a big cliffhanger and I’ve heard book two does too.)
May 29, 2024
Oh, man, I wanted to love this book but I…didn’t, heh.
So the good stuff: Callie is a fun, sassy character whose sarcasm is off the charts and being in her head is a lot of fun. I also really related to her struggle to be herself—even if she didn’t fully know what that was yet—yet also bow to the demands of those around her who didn’t “get” her or even try to but just wanted her to be what they wanted—painfully relatable right there, not gonna lie.
And while this isn’t Christian based or by a Christian author (as far as I know, anyways), there’s a huge emphasis on light versus darkness with lots of good, deep stuff to dig into which I really, really liked. Nemo is the cutest robot ever and I want one (though probably not really in retrospect, haha), Diver is so cool, and I loved Callie and Dr. Ormandi’s friendship, along with hers and Will’s…when he wasn’t being a angsty, jerk teenage boy, grrrr.
Which leads right into the things I was less than thrilled about. First off the teenage high school drama—ugh, really? 🙄 While it makes me REALLY glad I was homeschooled and never had to deal with this crap, it also is just annoying and took up a huge chunk of the story which I was NOT a fan of, and can the female MC’s boy best friend just stay that way sometimes WITHOUT being in love with her? Because that would be super great, thanks. I like the friends to lovers trope but that doesn’t mean I want them all in every book to be like that, ya know? And this one time I could have done without it. I just wanted the sci-fi/fantasy side of things more than the high school stuff which the former will hopefully be amped up in the next book.
Then there’s ghost Nate.
*crickets*
Yeah, I don’t feel the romance there, sorry. Also there’s a huge spoiler surrounding him that I can’t talk about but suffice it to say are we REALLY going down this road? REALLY?! 🤨🙄 Ugh, there better be a good reason for this nonsense…
So yeah I feel really mixed on this book (it also seemed to take me FOREVER to finish reading it!) as I came for a cool multiverse story and got more high school drama then I could shake a stick at with only crumbs of good stuff. The ending has me intrigued to keep going, so my only hope is that the trilogy gets better from here.
‼️Content‼️
Language: suck; what the; oh my gosh; gosh; bullcrap; gah; crap; gee; geez; screw up; holy crap; hellbent; heck; jackass; badass
Violence: a whirlpool almost sucks a boat and characters in; tentacle shadow monsters chase and attack characters; injuries and blood (not detailed); a kitchen was set on fire with someone inside
Sexual: a guy is called hot; in the past a guy ditched a girl because she refused to “hook up” with him; a guy is compelled to strip to his underwear and jump in the sea; a character looks up “glowing rod” on the internet (not detailed about the results but the character is horrified); kissing (not to semi detailed)
Drug/Alcohol: it’s implied teens drink and smoke at a beach party
Other: magic; robots come to life; a ghost; light and dark wizards; seers; magical abilities; a shadow like place; a character has mind control powers; in the past a woman died from cancer; a multiverse/other dimensions
So the good stuff: Callie is a fun, sassy character whose sarcasm is off the charts and being in her head is a lot of fun. I also really related to her struggle to be herself—even if she didn’t fully know what that was yet—yet also bow to the demands of those around her who didn’t “get” her or even try to but just wanted her to be what they wanted—painfully relatable right there, not gonna lie.
And while this isn’t Christian based or by a Christian author (as far as I know, anyways), there’s a huge emphasis on light versus darkness with lots of good, deep stuff to dig into which I really, really liked. Nemo is the cutest robot ever and I want one (though probably not really in retrospect, haha), Diver is so cool, and I loved Callie and Dr. Ormandi’s friendship, along with hers and Will’s…when he wasn’t being a angsty, jerk teenage boy, grrrr.
Which leads right into the things I was less than thrilled about. First off the teenage high school drama—ugh, really? 🙄 While it makes me REALLY glad I was homeschooled and never had to deal with this crap, it also is just annoying and took up a huge chunk of the story which I was NOT a fan of, and can the female MC’s boy best friend just stay that way sometimes WITHOUT being in love with her? Because that would be super great, thanks. I like the friends to lovers trope but that doesn’t mean I want them all in every book to be like that, ya know? And this one time I could have done without it. I just wanted the sci-fi/fantasy side of things more than the high school stuff which the former will hopefully be amped up in the next book.
Then there’s ghost Nate.
*crickets*
Yeah, I don’t feel the romance there, sorry. Also there’s a huge spoiler surrounding him that I can’t talk about but suffice it to say are we REALLY going down this road? REALLY?! 🤨🙄 Ugh, there better be a good reason for this nonsense…
So yeah I feel really mixed on this book (it also seemed to take me FOREVER to finish reading it!) as I came for a cool multiverse story and got more high school drama then I could shake a stick at with only crumbs of good stuff. The ending has me intrigued to keep going, so my only hope is that the trilogy gets better from here.
‼️Content‼️
Language: suck; what the; oh my gosh; gosh; bullcrap; gah; crap; gee; geez; screw up; holy crap; hellbent; heck; jackass; badass
Violence: a whirlpool almost sucks a boat and characters in; tentacle shadow monsters chase and attack characters; injuries and blood (not detailed); a kitchen was set on fire with someone inside
Sexual: a guy is called hot; in the past a guy ditched a girl because she refused to “hook up” with him; a guy is compelled to strip to his underwear and jump in the sea; a character looks up “glowing rod” on the internet (not detailed about the results but the character is horrified); kissing (not to semi detailed)
Drug/Alcohol: it’s implied teens drink and smoke at a beach party
Other: magic; robots come to life; a ghost; light and dark wizards; seers; magical abilities; a shadow like place; a character has mind control powers; in the past a woman died from cancer; a multiverse/other dimensions
September 19, 2022
This was a gripping YA Urban Fantasy novel! It’s well-written and I loved the humor—that and the voice/style was a blast! I just really enjoyed that aspect of it. The robots, the kinda-magic, the modern setting, and a hint at multiple worlds, all made this book super unique and fun, and was a winning combination!
The characters were all interesting, even the ones I didn’t click with, and it was an enjoyable story with a vivid setting, like getting sucked right into a movie. (Anyone who’s into surfing or robotics will enjoy this one, even if those parts went over my head. XD) The plot and growing mysteries, the emerging Luminaut backstory, the engaging writing style, and the wide range of challenges Callie faces on all sides kept me flipping pages. I HAD to know what happened next!
Then we have NEMOOOOO! I adored Nemo the tiny robot! He is SUPER CUTE and has such a great personality and is so fun. He’s the absolute best and I adore him! Nemo made the book so incredibly fun in every scene he was in. :D The way Callie was trying to train him to pretend to be a “real” robot instead of the sentient one he is was hilarious and I loved it so much! XD (Nemo forever, okay!)
And Diver! I loved Diver too. Super cool, and such a neat concept! Almost like a giant Baymax but with telepathy and you can, like, drive him, and I DON’T KNOW IT WAS REALLY COOL.
Basically, I’m absolutely here for the robot characters and they make me happy! XD Especially Nemo. ;) *hugs him forever*
Any less-favorite things were personal preference things. Like I don’t tend to generally enjoy modern drama (like family/school issues), and some types of YA drama (like love triangles…but also not!), or the MC being (I thought) slightly unfair to another character or deceiving others (with a purpose, but still), or the fact I was right about a spoilery character—but I didn’t want to be! (Feels. XD) So a few things frustrated me slightly or at least weren’t my favorite, but that was certainly a me-thing of not clicking with contemporary high-school type stories, not anything “wrong” with the book itself, which was extremely well done!
I’m very excited to read the next book because THAT CLIFFHANGER, THOUGH! :O I’m so glad the next book is on my shelf and I will definitely continue this series because I must know what happens next! Plus, you know, that fun writing. And Nemo… :D
Overall, a compelling, unique book that pulled me in and kept me reading late into the night. If you love modern YA fantasy you should enjoy this one!
(I received a free ARC copy from the publisher as part of an Instagram book tour. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.)
The characters were all interesting, even the ones I didn’t click with, and it was an enjoyable story with a vivid setting, like getting sucked right into a movie. (Anyone who’s into surfing or robotics will enjoy this one, even if those parts went over my head. XD) The plot and growing mysteries, the emerging Luminaut backstory, the engaging writing style, and the wide range of challenges Callie faces on all sides kept me flipping pages. I HAD to know what happened next!
Then we have NEMOOOOO! I adored Nemo the tiny robot! He is SUPER CUTE and has such a great personality and is so fun. He’s the absolute best and I adore him! Nemo made the book so incredibly fun in every scene he was in. :D The way Callie was trying to train him to pretend to be a “real” robot instead of the sentient one he is was hilarious and I loved it so much! XD (Nemo forever, okay!)
And Diver! I loved Diver too. Super cool, and such a neat concept! Almost like a giant Baymax but with telepathy and you can, like, drive him, and I DON’T KNOW IT WAS REALLY COOL.
Basically, I’m absolutely here for the robot characters and they make me happy! XD Especially Nemo. ;) *hugs him forever*
Any less-favorite things were personal preference things. Like I don’t tend to generally enjoy modern drama (like family/school issues), and some types of YA drama (like love triangles…but also not!), or the MC being (I thought) slightly unfair to another character or deceiving others (with a purpose, but still), or the fact I was right about a spoilery character—but I didn’t want to be! (Feels. XD) So a few things frustrated me slightly or at least weren’t my favorite, but that was certainly a me-thing of not clicking with contemporary high-school type stories, not anything “wrong” with the book itself, which was extremely well done!
I’m very excited to read the next book because THAT CLIFFHANGER, THOUGH! :O I’m so glad the next book is on my shelf and I will definitely continue this series because I must know what happens next! Plus, you know, that fun writing. And Nemo… :D
Overall, a compelling, unique book that pulled me in and kept me reading late into the night. If you love modern YA fantasy you should enjoy this one!
(I received a free ARC copy from the publisher as part of an Instagram book tour. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.)
May 28, 2022
AH! I’m immediately “diving” into Book II after this cliffhanger. The sci-fi adventure and spooky snatches of another world were fantastic. Haylie had me laughing and holding my breath throughout, and I cannot wait to see what comes next!
April 21, 2021
5/5 stars! (I wish I could give it more!)
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review!
TL;DR: Teenage surfer girl finds glowstick of doom and teams up with robot cat/puppy, a recluse, and the Iron Giant to save the world from murderous phantoms. Or something like that. Either way, it's one of the best things I've read in a while and you need to read it.
Calliope James--Callie--is sick of everyone shoving their expectations down her throat all the time. Instead of spending her time surfing with her best friend Will or doing robotics, she's stuck studying and trying out for sports to make her parents happy. But her world gets even crazier when she finds the glowstick of doom in the ocean. Her hands are suddenly glowing and unexplainable events are happening around her. With help from Dr. Ormandi, a recluse known as a boogeyman, she begins to understand what she picked up and who she is. Meanwhile, Nate shows up and starts giving Callie advice that completely contradicts Dr. Ormandi. And he's dead, and Callie is totally unprepared for handling ghosts--especially such an attractive one. As phantoms pursue her, Callie is forced to get a grip on her powers and discern right from wrong...while being a normal teenage girl with normal responsibilities at the same time.
There are so many things I loved about this book, but my favorite has to be Callie's voice. She's snarky and sarcastic and exactly what the protagonist of a YA book should look like (aka a normal teenager)! I've missed seeing YA protagonists like that. I also really appreciated the family relationships in this book. Haylie did a great job showing the struggle of having siblings and loving them regardless of how annoying they are! And I loved how Callie still had to deal with school and sports and other responsibilities while all the crazy, magic stuff was happening! The way Haylie blended the real world with magical elements was done so well! That leads me to another thing that I adored about this book--the world-building! The whole concept of Light and Darkness and the multiverse full of different worlds was so cool! I can't wait to further explore it in future books! And, of course, I adored Nemo and Diver! In my head, I think of them as Wall-E (crossed with R2-D2??) and the Iron Giant! I want one of each of them! I also liked Will and Nate, and hope to see more of them in the coming books.
Honestly, I could go on forever about how much I loved this book! You better believe I will be getting copies of any of Haylie’s future books--she's probably going to be an auto-buy author for me!
I highly recommend this to YA fans, fantasy fans, etc. And it's clean, for the record. Do yourself a favor and get a copy!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review!
TL;DR: Teenage surfer girl finds glowstick of doom and teams up with robot cat/puppy, a recluse, and the Iron Giant to save the world from murderous phantoms. Or something like that. Either way, it's one of the best things I've read in a while and you need to read it.
Calliope James--Callie--is sick of everyone shoving their expectations down her throat all the time. Instead of spending her time surfing with her best friend Will or doing robotics, she's stuck studying and trying out for sports to make her parents happy. But her world gets even crazier when she finds the glowstick of doom in the ocean. Her hands are suddenly glowing and unexplainable events are happening around her. With help from Dr. Ormandi, a recluse known as a boogeyman, she begins to understand what she picked up and who she is. Meanwhile, Nate shows up and starts giving Callie advice that completely contradicts Dr. Ormandi. And he's dead, and Callie is totally unprepared for handling ghosts--especially such an attractive one. As phantoms pursue her, Callie is forced to get a grip on her powers and discern right from wrong...while being a normal teenage girl with normal responsibilities at the same time.
There are so many things I loved about this book, but my favorite has to be Callie's voice. She's snarky and sarcastic and exactly what the protagonist of a YA book should look like (aka a normal teenager)! I've missed seeing YA protagonists like that. I also really appreciated the family relationships in this book. Haylie did a great job showing the struggle of having siblings and loving them regardless of how annoying they are! And I loved how Callie still had to deal with school and sports and other responsibilities while all the crazy, magic stuff was happening! The way Haylie blended the real world with magical elements was done so well! That leads me to another thing that I adored about this book--the world-building! The whole concept of Light and Darkness and the multiverse full of different worlds was so cool! I can't wait to further explore it in future books! And, of course, I adored Nemo and Diver! In my head, I think of them as Wall-E (crossed with R2-D2??) and the Iron Giant! I want one of each of them! I also liked Will and Nate, and hope to see more of them in the coming books.
Honestly, I could go on forever about how much I loved this book! You better believe I will be getting copies of any of Haylie’s future books--she's probably going to be an auto-buy author for me!
I highly recommend this to YA fans, fantasy fans, etc. And it's clean, for the record. Do yourself a favor and get a copy!
March 12, 2022
Totally RAD
What a fun and fast-paced adventure! Cliff-hanger ending, though.-rude. But, hey! At least book two is releasing soon. *cheers* Into The Multiverse We Go!
4.5 Stars
What a fun and fast-paced adventure! Cliff-hanger ending, though.-rude. But, hey! At least book two is releasing soon. *cheers* Into The Multiverse We Go!
4.5 Stars
March 27, 2023
A super fun, YA romp with robots, superpowers, a surfer girl with down to earth drama and out of this world problems, including a rather smooth, angsty, tall, dark, and handsome dude who just so happens to also be a ghost.
The first in a trilogy, you'll definitely want to binge read together. Perfect for fans of sci fi, marvel, and smart, sassy girls with excellent puns.
The first in a trilogy, you'll definitely want to binge read together. Perfect for fans of sci fi, marvel, and smart, sassy girls with excellent puns.
April 26, 2022
Super fun, action packed story with relatable characters, PLOT TWISTS, snarky humor that had me laughing multiple times, and loveable robots who could give Chopper from SW: Rebels a run for his credits.
June 15, 2022
I loved the idea of all the unique elements of this story--surfing, robots, and light wizards--and was intrigued to see how well the author pulled it off. She did a pretty good job, considering all the bizarre ingredients she was dumping into her story concoction.
One of the main reasons I knocked off some stars was because I wasn't a huge fan of Callie or the other characters, except for Nemo, the cute baby robot. Callie struck me as too rude in her judgements. I also thought it odd and disturbing how easily Callie lied about various things, and she never really seemed to regret it. That's probably what bothered me most about her--she was quick to blame others but not to see her own mistakes and apologize for them.
Also, do siblings really treat each other that horribly? Sure, my brother and sister and I had periods where we didn't get along, but we weren't constantly at each other's throats. Callie's brothers seemed a little too flat and stereotypical, especially Jase.
Although exciting things happened frequently in the book, the plot was wobbly. For a while, Callie's main goal was just to find out what had happened to her and if she believed it, which felt a lot like every other superhero story. It was pretty clear that the main plot and purpose of this first book was background information for the next two books, which is a real shame, because there was potential for so much more thrills and mysteries.
There was also more teenage drama than I was expecting. Angst among teens is one reason I (usually) steer clear of YA contemporaries. But what bothered me more than the actual drama was that Callie herself said several times that she hated drama, and yet she was perpetuating it with some of her actions! Maybe this shows that I'm just getting old... ;).
If you don't mind lying, immature teens with cute robots and boyfriend drama who can also shoot light from their hands, then this book is for you!
One of the main reasons I knocked off some stars was because I wasn't a huge fan of Callie or the other characters, except for Nemo, the cute baby robot. Callie struck me as too rude in her judgements. I also thought it odd and disturbing how easily Callie lied about various things, and she never really seemed to regret it. That's probably what bothered me most about her--she was quick to blame others but not to see her own mistakes and apologize for them.
Also, do siblings really treat each other that horribly? Sure, my brother and sister and I had periods where we didn't get along, but we weren't constantly at each other's throats. Callie's brothers seemed a little too flat and stereotypical, especially Jase.
Although exciting things happened frequently in the book, the plot was wobbly. For a while, Callie's main goal was just to find out what had happened to her and if she believed it, which felt a lot like every other superhero story. It was pretty clear that the main plot and purpose of this first book was background information for the next two books, which is a real shame, because there was potential for so much more thrills and mysteries.
There was also more teenage drama than I was expecting. Angst among teens is one reason I (usually) steer clear of YA contemporaries. But what bothered me more than the actual drama was that Callie herself said several times that she hated drama, and yet she was perpetuating it with some of her actions! Maybe this shows that I'm just getting old... ;).
If you don't mind lying, immature teens with cute robots and boyfriend drama who can also shoot light from their hands, then this book is for you!
April 25, 2023
Super fun. The Iron Giant meets SpiderMan Homecoming
I absolutely love Hanson’s voice. This is the most light hearted, snarky, heart warming read and I. Was. Here. For. It!
If you are looking for a relatable teen MC with STEM vibes in a magical portal multiverse world, look no further!!
The absolute perfect YA summer read. I will be recommending this book to every teen female I meet.
I absolutely love Hanson’s voice. This is the most light hearted, snarky, heart warming read and I. Was. Here. For. It!
If you are looking for a relatable teen MC with STEM vibes in a magical portal multiverse world, look no further!!
The absolute perfect YA summer read. I will be recommending this book to every teen female I meet.
May 13, 2021
If you’re looking for a fun, grab-your-attention-right-away-and-keep-you-turning-the-pages book, this is it. I literally loved everything about this book and can’t find one negative thing to say about it! Well... except that cliffhanger. Why, Haylie, why? 😄
Callie James is a typical 16 year-old teenage girl, living the California surfer girl life, hanging out with her best friend Will, trying to live up to her parents’ expectations. Except she’s not really interested in keeping up her grades, rounding out her education, or getting into the perfect college. Callie’s more of a slacker when it comes to planning for her future. I love how the author set the tone immediately and I felt like I wanted to reach into the book and shake Callie a time or two, to tell her there are more important things to think about in life than catching the next big wave. But not to worry, Callie experiences much growth throughout the book!
When Callie finds a mysterious glowing rod on the ocean floor while out surfing one afternoon, and discovers she is the last Luminaut in her world and the only hope to save the multiverse, things take a serious turn. I love the dynamics between Callie and her mentor, Dr. Ormandi! The sentient robots are pretty cool, and the evil shadow creatures are very creepy.
I really loved this book, so much so that I stayed up until 3 am this morning to finish it, so I’ll be dragging the rest of the day! 😅 If you like a bit of sci-fi mixed with fantasy adventure, do yourself a favor and pick this one up immediately!
Callie James is a typical 16 year-old teenage girl, living the California surfer girl life, hanging out with her best friend Will, trying to live up to her parents’ expectations. Except she’s not really interested in keeping up her grades, rounding out her education, or getting into the perfect college. Callie’s more of a slacker when it comes to planning for her future. I love how the author set the tone immediately and I felt like I wanted to reach into the book and shake Callie a time or two, to tell her there are more important things to think about in life than catching the next big wave. But not to worry, Callie experiences much growth throughout the book!
When Callie finds a mysterious glowing rod on the ocean floor while out surfing one afternoon, and discovers she is the last Luminaut in her world and the only hope to save the multiverse, things take a serious turn. I love the dynamics between Callie and her mentor, Dr. Ormandi! The sentient robots are pretty cool, and the evil shadow creatures are very creepy.
I really loved this book, so much so that I stayed up until 3 am this morning to finish it, so I’ll be dragging the rest of the day! 😅 If you like a bit of sci-fi mixed with fantasy adventure, do yourself a favor and pick this one up immediately!
October 11, 2021
I'm not a huge sci-fi fan. Most of it is way above my head and I don't feel I can really give that genre justice.
This book was an exception.
After seeing it on Instagram for so long, I finally caved and bought a copy. I lack words to adequately describe how much I love it. It's definitely my top 10 reads of 2021 and possibly my favorite 2021 release.
The story is humorous and exciting, and I had trouble putting it down. I related a LOT to Callie and despite some twists I called out regarding a certain infatuation (if you know, you know) this story surprised me in the best of ways. I love Nemo—seriously wayyyy cuter than anything Star Wars ever created. And Will is adorable. This story is amazing and I am literally going to be dying waiting for the next book in the trilogy to come. I wish I could give this more than 5 stars. I love it!
This book was an exception.
After seeing it on Instagram for so long, I finally caved and bought a copy. I lack words to adequately describe how much I love it. It's definitely my top 10 reads of 2021 and possibly my favorite 2021 release.
The story is humorous and exciting, and I had trouble putting it down. I related a LOT to Callie and despite some twists I called out regarding a certain infatuation (if you know, you know) this story surprised me in the best of ways. I love Nemo—seriously wayyyy cuter than anything Star Wars ever created. And Will is adorable. This story is amazing and I am literally going to be dying waiting for the next book in the trilogy to come. I wish I could give this more than 5 stars. I love it!
October 12, 2021
If authors could just stop writing attractive, irresistible villains that I have no choice but to simp for, that’d be great.
Like I’m sorry but if the Shadowmancer asked me to hand over the glowstick of doom, I’d do it no questions asked.
Seriously, though. This book has absolutely EVERYTHING I want in a novel. A simply terrible villain whom I’ve fallen madly in love with? Check. An ADORABLE little robot who’s been brought to life? Check. Witty banter? Check. Women in stem? Check. Magic mixed with technology? Check. Voice for days? CHECK CHECK CHECK. Oh, and did I mention the wildly attractive villain?
I finished this book in a day. I literally could not put it down from start to finish. It captivated me in a way few novels ever do.
In regards to characters, I felt they were fleshed out, intriguing, and personable. Callie was a fantastic main character filled with snark and a desire to be good enough. She was easily relatable, and very real. I thought her relationship with Jase was interesting and well-developed (and I absolutely loved the comic relief provided by Ryan and Tyler). Will was an intriguing character, although he did feel very much like a pick me boy, but I’m glad that his relationship with Callie remained platonic because I do feel like there isn’t enough of that in YA.
In regard to plot, the story isn’t fast-paced. The villain’s importance/the looming threat doesn’t really feel like a villain/looming threat until the very end. I did find myself wondering what the story was really about up until the reveal of the Shadowmancer. HOWEVER. This did not detract from my enjoyability of the book, nor do I think this is a negative. The story isn’t a typical YA fantasy/sci-fi—and that’s actually really refreshing.
All in all I highly recommend this book. No, seriously, put down whatever you’re reading and pick this up. I need people to fangirl over the Shadowmancer with. Like. Please. Go read about the hot villain. I’m begging you. It’s so good.
***I did receive an ARC from the publisher but all views reflected in this review are my own (seriously I don’t think I’m supposed to be simping this hard for the villain 🤦🏼♀️)
Like I’m sorry but if the Shadowmancer asked me to hand over the glowstick of doom, I’d do it no questions asked.
Seriously, though. This book has absolutely EVERYTHING I want in a novel. A simply terrible villain whom I’ve fallen madly in love with? Check. An ADORABLE little robot who’s been brought to life? Check. Witty banter? Check. Women in stem? Check. Magic mixed with technology? Check. Voice for days? CHECK CHECK CHECK. Oh, and did I mention the wildly attractive villain?
I finished this book in a day. I literally could not put it down from start to finish. It captivated me in a way few novels ever do.
In regards to characters, I felt they were fleshed out, intriguing, and personable. Callie was a fantastic main character filled with snark and a desire to be good enough. She was easily relatable, and very real. I thought her relationship with Jase was interesting and well-developed (and I absolutely loved the comic relief provided by Ryan and Tyler). Will was an intriguing character, although he did feel very much like a pick me boy, but I’m glad that his relationship with Callie remained platonic because I do feel like there isn’t enough of that in YA.
In regard to plot, the story isn’t fast-paced. The villain’s importance/the looming threat doesn’t really feel like a villain/looming threat until the very end. I did find myself wondering what the story was really about up until the reveal of the Shadowmancer. HOWEVER. This did not detract from my enjoyability of the book, nor do I think this is a negative. The story isn’t a typical YA fantasy/sci-fi—and that’s actually really refreshing.
All in all I highly recommend this book. No, seriously, put down whatever you’re reading and pick this up. I need people to fangirl over the Shadowmancer with. Like. Please. Go read about the hot villain. I’m begging you. It’s so good.
***I did receive an ARC from the publisher but all views reflected in this review are my own (seriously I don’t think I’m supposed to be simping this hard for the villain 🤦🏼♀️)
February 20, 2022
Being a mix of Science Fiction, Fantasy and some references to California surf culture, World Diver was an easy pickup for me, and I adored reading through the first of the series, which introduces us to the concept of World Diving, Luminauts and much more! Along with great characters and good pacing balancing out high school and the fantastical, along with bits of darkness, it brought me back to the 1990’s in more ways than one.
The plot reminded me of a lot of YA Sci-Fi and Fantasy books that were released in the 1990’s, with a girl discovering she has a destiny to fulfill, yet, she’s trying to break out of her underachiever self. Callie’s a surfer and involved with robotics, but her parents are concerned with her future. Everything changes when she finds a glowing rod during one of her surfing sessions, and things go sideways from there. I love Callie’s growth, as she slowly realizes the responsibilities she has thrust on her in multiple ways and she makes plenty of mistakes, but learns from them. I do love the relationships she builds throughout the story aren’t straight forward. Also, Nemo is adorable. While the “wake up, go to school, save the world” formula has been done before, it’s given a fresh take with a couple of curveballs in the form of a few plot twists, which while foreshadowed and I sorta guessed they were coming, surprised me when they did. I also love how the lore is presented, not too much info dumping, and we’re not left hanging for answers for too long. Also, the prose is easy to read, full of personality, yet vivid at the same time. There’s plenty of fun callbacks to the 1990’s as well, and I’m sure those that were around in that time period figured out most of the references.
One issue some might have is that this feels more like an introduction to the series that leads into the main conflict for later, but I think the main conflict for this book was sufficient enough.
I’m definitely looking forward to the second book in the series, Light Hunter!
The plot reminded me of a lot of YA Sci-Fi and Fantasy books that were released in the 1990’s, with a girl discovering she has a destiny to fulfill, yet, she’s trying to break out of her underachiever self. Callie’s a surfer and involved with robotics, but her parents are concerned with her future. Everything changes when she finds a glowing rod during one of her surfing sessions, and things go sideways from there. I love Callie’s growth, as she slowly realizes the responsibilities she has thrust on her in multiple ways and she makes plenty of mistakes, but learns from them. I do love the relationships she builds throughout the story aren’t straight forward. Also, Nemo is adorable. While the “wake up, go to school, save the world” formula has been done before, it’s given a fresh take with a couple of curveballs in the form of a few plot twists, which while foreshadowed and I sorta guessed they were coming, surprised me when they did. I also love how the lore is presented, not too much info dumping, and we’re not left hanging for answers for too long. Also, the prose is easy to read, full of personality, yet vivid at the same time. There’s plenty of fun callbacks to the 1990’s as well, and I’m sure those that were around in that time period figured out most of the references.
One issue some might have is that this feels more like an introduction to the series that leads into the main conflict for later, but I think the main conflict for this book was sufficient enough.
I’m definitely looking forward to the second book in the series, Light Hunter!
April 22, 2021
Welcome to the life of Callie James, a (sometimes painfully) average high school student, middle child, and surfer bum. When she stumbles upon a glowing stick of power, she’s thrown into the world of light magic, sentient robots, and hot dead guys.
World Diver is a fun read that puts a refreshingly original spin on a classic teenager-turned-superhero story plot.
My favorite things about World Diver:
The characters: Mostly I LOVE Callie's voice. The author imbued so much personality into this character and the narrative. Callie is sharp, witty, and so believable for a teenager (think Sam Whitwicky from Transformers or maybe Buffy the Vampire Slayer).
The magic/lore: I didn't think that magic and science fiction could be combined in a single story but World Diver does it so well. Sentient robots and light magic? Totally makes sense. I can't wait for the next book to learn more about this world.
The downsides?
It took me a while to get into World Diver. The story begins with a high-octane event (Callie discovering the Light Core) but immediately after I'm reading about Callie’s average family and school life. I was excited to explore robots, surfing, and alien technology, but reading about high school drama and parental pressure was just tough.
My other complaint was the lack of stakes and villain at first.
Having said that, once the villain began stalking Callie and her powers became more interesting (i.e. Nemo came onto the scene ;) ) I was pulled right back in.
Overall, World Diver is a clean, original superhero/wizard story with a downright addictive narrative.
I want the merch, the sequel, and membership to the official fan club.
Thank you Uncommon Universes Press for the eARC. All opinions in this review are my own.
World Diver is a fun read that puts a refreshingly original spin on a classic teenager-turned-superhero story plot.
My favorite things about World Diver:
The characters: Mostly I LOVE Callie's voice. The author imbued so much personality into this character and the narrative. Callie is sharp, witty, and so believable for a teenager (think Sam Whitwicky from Transformers or maybe Buffy the Vampire Slayer).
The magic/lore: I didn't think that magic and science fiction could be combined in a single story but World Diver does it so well. Sentient robots and light magic? Totally makes sense. I can't wait for the next book to learn more about this world.
The downsides?
It took me a while to get into World Diver. The story begins with a high-octane event (Callie discovering the Light Core) but immediately after I'm reading about Callie’s average family and school life. I was excited to explore robots, surfing, and alien technology, but reading about high school drama and parental pressure was just tough.
My other complaint was the lack of stakes and villain at first.
Having said that, once the villain began stalking Callie and her powers became more interesting (i.e. Nemo came onto the scene ;) ) I was pulled right back in.
Overall, World Diver is a clean, original superhero/wizard story with a downright addictive narrative.
I want the merch, the sequel, and membership to the official fan club.
Thank you Uncommon Universes Press for the eARC. All opinions in this review are my own.
May 27, 2021
I have no idea why it took me so long to start reading this. Once I picked it up however, I couldn’t stop reading
Hanson really pulled out a bunch of surprises throughout the whole story and to say that I was shocked is an understatement. Yes, I did see some coming but definitely not in the way it happened.
I love all the stem aspects of this book. Considering that I just finished building a robot (we called him DocBot) for engineering, it made the story all the more interesting and special.
Nate, oh Nate. I don’t know what to say (or what I can say).
Nemo was the absolute cutest and you can’t change my mind. 🤖
I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a lighter sci-fi with humor and a unique plot.
4.5/5
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
Hanson really pulled out a bunch of surprises throughout the whole story and to say that I was shocked is an understatement. Yes, I did see some coming but definitely not in the way it happened.
I love all the stem aspects of this book. Considering that I just finished building a robot (we called him DocBot) for engineering, it made the story all the more interesting and special.
Nate, oh Nate. I don’t know what to say (or what I can say).
Nemo was the absolute cutest and you can’t change my mind. 🤖
I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a lighter sci-fi with humor and a unique plot.
4.5/5
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
April 20, 2021
Meet your next favorite read! I read this book in one day. I've only done this a handful of times in my life, so this should tell you how fantastic this book is! It's my favorite read of 2021--right alongside Adrienne Young's Fable.
There's not enough room to tell you everything I loved about this book so here are the highlights: the relationship between Dr. Ormandi and Callie (**heart**); the humor--the snark that Callie and other teens have is spot on!; Nemo--enough said; the fresh take on a mix of sci-fi/fantasy worlds; the depth of characters. And of course, the story! Highly recommended for any sci-fi or fantasy reader!
There's not enough room to tell you everything I loved about this book so here are the highlights: the relationship between Dr. Ormandi and Callie (**heart**); the humor--the snark that Callie and other teens have is spot on!; Nemo--enough said; the fresh take on a mix of sci-fi/fantasy worlds; the depth of characters. And of course, the story! Highly recommended for any sci-fi or fantasy reader!
September 22, 2022
I need my own Nemo ASAP!!
This debut novel by Haylie Hanson was such a fun and page-turning read with danger and monsters I haven't really seen anywhere else. I was flying through these chapters, wanting to know more about the light core, what that sneaky Nate was really up to, and indulge in all of Nemo's robotic antics.
Did I mention I wanted one?!
This debut novel by Haylie Hanson was such a fun and page-turning read with danger and monsters I haven't really seen anywhere else. I was flying through these chapters, wanting to know more about the light core, what that sneaky Nate was really up to, and indulge in all of Nemo's robotic antics.
Did I mention I wanted one?!
May 20, 2022
Have you ever picked up a novel and for better or for worse connected it to another fictional story you've enjoyed?
That was my experience with World Diver.
The minute I realized this was going to be a story about giant mechs, romance, and surfing, I immediately connected it to one of my favorite animes of all-time: Eureka Seven.
And so I dove into this book, full on ready for giant mechs battling each other while surfboarding on rays of light. Spoiler alert: that didn't happen.
Because World Diver is a unique story all its own!
A more gradual story, World Diver focuses more on the mystery behind the luminaunts. Building slowly to an epic climax, internal conflict, and an ending that made me both happy and mad at the same time!
If you're a fan of contemporary novels, STEM education, space fantasy, surfing, and great sassy dialogue, then this is the book for you! Also, Nemo. Because Nemo is the best mech ever and he stole the scene everytime he was on the page!
I adore Nemo!
Now for my content disclosure: for language there were a few instances of PG-13 cussing. In terms of sexual content, there are some sex jokes thrown in here and there, a mention of hooking up, and a very passionate kiss scene. For thematic content, there is an instance of mind control, ghosts are present, the multiverse is a present theme, and Jesus and Christianity are mentioned in passing. For all these reasons, I can't label this as a clean read, but I'd give it a solid PG-13.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can't wait to dive into Light Hunter!
I hope you have a blessed day!
That was my experience with World Diver.
The minute I realized this was going to be a story about giant mechs, romance, and surfing, I immediately connected it to one of my favorite animes of all-time: Eureka Seven.
And so I dove into this book, full on ready for giant mechs battling each other while surfboarding on rays of light. Spoiler alert: that didn't happen.
Because World Diver is a unique story all its own!
A more gradual story, World Diver focuses more on the mystery behind the luminaunts. Building slowly to an epic climax, internal conflict, and an ending that made me both happy and mad at the same time!
If you're a fan of contemporary novels, STEM education, space fantasy, surfing, and great sassy dialogue, then this is the book for you! Also, Nemo. Because Nemo is the best mech ever and he stole the scene everytime he was on the page!
I adore Nemo!
Now for my content disclosure: for language there were a few instances of PG-13 cussing. In terms of sexual content, there are some sex jokes thrown in here and there, a mention of hooking up, and a very passionate kiss scene. For thematic content, there is an instance of mind control, ghosts are present, the multiverse is a present theme, and Jesus and Christianity are mentioned in passing. For all these reasons, I can't label this as a clean read, but I'd give it a solid PG-13.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can't wait to dive into Light Hunter!
I hope you have a blessed day!
September 4, 2025
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 (good read, probably will reread)
World Diver was a really fun read.
I loved Callie’s voice. She had a fabulous wit and snark. And we all know that I love snarky characters. I also thought it was neat that Callie is interested in STEM since it isn’t super prevalent in books. The rest of the characters were well-developed and interesting as well. I would have liked to see a little bit more of Callie’s family though.
Also, Nemo. I need a Nemo. And after you read World Diver, you will want a Nemo too. I mean, he might shred your notebooks, but who wouldn’t want an adorable little robot?
Haylie doesn’t make things easy for Callie, who has to juggle the ordinary stresses of life in addition to learning that she’s a Luminaut. The subplots are done well and are connected to the main plot. Though I do have to confess, I wasn’t super interested in the high school/relationship drama but it didn’t turn me off from the book.
Because of the differing advice from Nate and Dr. Ormandi, Haylie had me guessing at what was going to happen and trying to figure out who was telling the truth.
Just be warned: World Diver does end on a pretty big cliffhanger. I’m excited to see what Haylie does in the next book, especially as far as world building goes. I have a hunch that it will be pretty cool.
Cautions: five instances of “coarser” language; light/moderate romance; four kisses; a character is believed to be a ghost; mention of underage drinking
World Diver was a really fun read.
I loved Callie’s voice. She had a fabulous wit and snark. And we all know that I love snarky characters. I also thought it was neat that Callie is interested in STEM since it isn’t super prevalent in books. The rest of the characters were well-developed and interesting as well. I would have liked to see a little bit more of Callie’s family though.
Also, Nemo. I need a Nemo. And after you read World Diver, you will want a Nemo too. I mean, he might shred your notebooks, but who wouldn’t want an adorable little robot?
Haylie doesn’t make things easy for Callie, who has to juggle the ordinary stresses of life in addition to learning that she’s a Luminaut. The subplots are done well and are connected to the main plot. Though I do have to confess, I wasn’t super interested in the high school/relationship drama but it didn’t turn me off from the book.
Because of the differing advice from Nate and Dr. Ormandi, Haylie had me guessing at what was going to happen and trying to figure out who was telling the truth.
Just be warned: World Diver does end on a pretty big cliffhanger. I’m excited to see what Haylie does in the next book, especially as far as world building goes. I have a hunch that it will be pretty cool.
Cautions: five instances of “coarser” language; light/moderate romance; four kisses; a character is believed to be a ghost; mention of underage drinking
May 6, 2022
Ok ok ok! Y’all! So! If you love Star Wars, California vibes, clever witty nerdy main characters and their equally loveable (albeit sometimes throttleable) best friends, quirky sentient robots, heartwarming moments, and the beginnings of an epic struggle between light and dark with a plot twist I genuinely didn’t see coming then this book is for you.
From the first sentence I knew I would enjoy this book, but I didn’t realise how much I would absolutely adore it. As a California girl who grew up in that surfer culture but is also a huge nerd, reading Callie’s story brought me so much nostalgia in all the best ways.
I also loved the emotional depth of the characters and how that was balanced out by their realness (teenagers that are actually teenagers!!). I loved the hope, I loved the twists and turns, I loved the plot, I loved characters I can’t tell you about because it would spoil the book, I loved the mystery even though I’m a major scaredy-cat.
This book is one of my all time favourites and I'm so excited to read book 2! No joke it's one of the easiest 5 stars I’ve ever given.
From the first sentence I knew I would enjoy this book, but I didn’t realise how much I would absolutely adore it. As a California girl who grew up in that surfer culture but is also a huge nerd, reading Callie’s story brought me so much nostalgia in all the best ways.
I also loved the emotional depth of the characters and how that was balanced out by their realness (teenagers that are actually teenagers!!). I loved the hope, I loved the twists and turns, I loved the plot, I loved characters I can’t tell you about because it would spoil the book, I loved the mystery even though I’m a major scaredy-cat.
This book is one of my all time favourites and I'm so excited to read book 2! No joke it's one of the easiest 5 stars I’ve ever given.
May 4, 2023
Alrighty, this review is going to be short because I must hurry off to read the sequel of the trilogy.
This book… oh my goodness this book… I cannot even express coherent thoughts on it because right now my brain is going “AHHHHHHH”…. I leave you with this… this book is so good, didn’t expect to like it as much as I did (frankly didn’t know a lot about it… just kinda was like this looks cool let’s read it) and well here we are. Definitely would recommend giving it a read.
SPOILERS READ AT OWN RISK
Some thoughts arose:
Am I into bad guys? Maybe… especially if they are named Nate
Do I like robots? Also yes… if they are cute beans like diver and nemo
Do i relate to Camie on an insane level? Also also yes…
Do I feel bad for Will? Yes.. I love him…. But.. bad guys are my type
This book… oh my goodness this book… I cannot even express coherent thoughts on it because right now my brain is going “AHHHHHHH”…. I leave you with this… this book is so good, didn’t expect to like it as much as I did (frankly didn’t know a lot about it… just kinda was like this looks cool let’s read it) and well here we are. Definitely would recommend giving it a read.
SPOILERS READ AT OWN RISK
Some thoughts arose:
Am I into bad guys? Maybe… especially if they are named Nate
Do I like robots? Also yes… if they are cute beans like diver and nemo
Do i relate to Camie on an insane level? Also also yes…
Do I feel bad for Will? Yes.. I love him…. But.. bad guys are my type
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2022
I don't think I've ever read a funnier MC before—Callie is so full of snark and sarcasm I couldn't help but laugh out loud throughout the book. And with literal darkness after our dear Callie, we need those moments of laughter. The book has the perfect balance of fun humor and serious stakes for me.
Other reasons to read: sentient robots, California beach vibes, and unfurling mysteries involving light magic and the multiverse.
A few things I didn't love all fell under the relationship drama category (family, friend, and love), BUT that's kind of to be expected with a 17-year-old protagonist from our world. I just rolled my eyes at Callie a few times, then laughed at her inner snarkiness.
All in all, I am so excited that book 2 releases in a couple of weeks (April 21, 2022)!
Other reasons to read: sentient robots, California beach vibes, and unfurling mysteries involving light magic and the multiverse.
A few things I didn't love all fell under the relationship drama category (family, friend, and love), BUT that's kind of to be expected with a 17-year-old protagonist from our world. I just rolled my eyes at Callie a few times, then laughed at her inner snarkiness.
All in all, I am so excited that book 2 releases in a couple of weeks (April 21, 2022)!
September 15, 2025
I love the combination of original elements! The Light vs Dark magic system, robots, California, and high school drama came together to make a very unique premise. Callie had a very strong character voice, and the other characters were very flushed out as well (sassy old men for the win!). I look forward to reading the rest of the series!
September 20, 2022
WORLD DIVER
This amazing book by @hayliehanson is one stunning mix of paranormal/scifi/fantasy and I am here for all of it. I’ve just finished my second read now, and I’m reading book 2 aloud to my sister ;))
.
Funnily enough, I actually hated #WorldDiver the first time I read it. (Genre shock. It’s understandable.) I think I gave it a three star review on Goodreads and fell just short of yeeting my Kindle across the room. Except, fifty seconds later I was googling the author to see when book 2 was coming out. Because boyyyy did Ms. Haylie do a good job on it. I was like I. NEED. ANSWERS. NOW. And that, I think, is one of teh highest praises the first book in atrilogy can receive.
.
This book has all the things:
- STEM girl mc
- proof that the multiverse exists
- mech shenanigans
- aaaaall the snark
- Cali setting
- Star Wars/Stranger Things vibes
- hot ghost boi
- light superpowers
I mean, it doesn’t get any better than that. Callie is an amazing main character, one that I actually like?? Smart, feisty, into robotics and juggling light superpowers. My kinda girl.
.
And Nate? He’s pretty *shady* (shameless pun btw). Imagine Leo Valdez but he looks like Nico di Angelo. Perfection embodied, basically. Except….he’s kinda dead? XDXD Iykyk. Welcome to the dark side.
.
Basic gist of the story: Callie finds a Light Core while out surfing, and discovers it has triggered light powers inside her. She's kinda freaked out, cause she's a busy girl and doesn't have time to worry about weird light sticks. Or saving the multiverse. Her Seer mentor tells her that Light is a gift...but ghost boi Nate calls it a curse.
.
Cue the light/dark superpower shenanigans. Grab the popcorn, you’ll need it.
.
#worlddiver #worlddiverbook #worlddiverbyhayliehanson #hayliehanson #hayliehansonbooks #authirhayliehanson #theluminauttrilogy #luminauttrilogy #luminautfandom #luminaut #calliejames #nateormandi #nemo #diver #theworlddiver #worlddiving #multiverse #mech #mechs #otherworlds #ya #yareads #yafantasy #yascifi #yabooks #bookstagram #lighthunter #books #bookish #yareccs #reading #readers #readersofinstagram #roboticsmc #surfingmc #goreaditrn
This amazing book by @hayliehanson is one stunning mix of paranormal/scifi/fantasy and I am here for all of it. I’ve just finished my second read now, and I’m reading book 2 aloud to my sister ;))
.
Funnily enough, I actually hated #WorldDiver the first time I read it. (Genre shock. It’s understandable.) I think I gave it a three star review on Goodreads and fell just short of yeeting my Kindle across the room. Except, fifty seconds later I was googling the author to see when book 2 was coming out. Because boyyyy did Ms. Haylie do a good job on it. I was like I. NEED. ANSWERS. NOW. And that, I think, is one of teh highest praises the first book in atrilogy can receive.
.
This book has all the things:
- STEM girl mc
- proof that the multiverse exists
- mech shenanigans
- aaaaall the snark
- Cali setting
- Star Wars/Stranger Things vibes
- hot ghost boi
- light superpowers
I mean, it doesn’t get any better than that. Callie is an amazing main character, one that I actually like?? Smart, feisty, into robotics and juggling light superpowers. My kinda girl.
.
And Nate? He’s pretty *shady* (shameless pun btw). Imagine Leo Valdez but he looks like Nico di Angelo. Perfection embodied, basically. Except….he’s kinda dead? XDXD Iykyk. Welcome to the dark side.
.
Basic gist of the story: Callie finds a Light Core while out surfing, and discovers it has triggered light powers inside her. She's kinda freaked out, cause she's a busy girl and doesn't have time to worry about weird light sticks. Or saving the multiverse. Her Seer mentor tells her that Light is a gift...but ghost boi Nate calls it a curse.
.
Cue the light/dark superpower shenanigans. Grab the popcorn, you’ll need it.
.
#worlddiver #worlddiverbook #worlddiverbyhayliehanson #hayliehanson #hayliehansonbooks #authirhayliehanson #theluminauttrilogy #luminauttrilogy #luminautfandom #luminaut #calliejames #nateormandi #nemo #diver #theworlddiver #worlddiving #multiverse #mech #mechs #otherworlds #ya #yareads #yafantasy #yascifi #yabooks #bookstagram #lighthunter #books #bookish #yareccs #reading #readers #readersofinstagram #roboticsmc #surfingmc #goreaditrn
June 25, 2021
Ok, where do I begin with this book?
I loved it so, so much! It hit all the right spots for me. Fun, funny, dark, sarcastic, a little tragic, interesting setting, and even some intriguing worldbuilding.
The story in a nutshell:
Callie James is a slacker highschooler with a passion for robotics and surfing and little else. One day during a freak storm, she finds a glowy rod thing under the waves - which would be only a weird phenomenon if it didn't make her hands glow all on their own and make her robotics project come to life.
What she learns next plunges her into a strange world of ancient magic, parallel universes, wizards, monsters, mechs, and messy first love.
Her only guides: a reclusive old professor, and a very attractive ghost - and she's not sure if she can trust either.
The story was well-crafted, exciting, and contained many twists I didn't see coming (and quite a few I saw a mile away). Callie makes a likeably self-effacing protagonist, with a snarky voice that's a joy to read and a difficult family that she often clashes with in uncomfortably real ways.
A couple downsides:
The worldbuilding, while interesting, was underdeveloped. I felt like it could have gone deeper, like there was a promise of more that can and should have been shared. Since this is the first book in a trilogy, we'll doubtless get more as we go - but I still felt the lack.
And a few elements were included but then dropped when they might have been woven back into the story for greater effect - like Callie's surfing skills, Nemo the manic robot-pet, some of the familial tensions, some friend issues at Callie's school... Again, these might be resolved in later installments. But the book might have been stronger addressing them and including a resolution or at least incorporating elements into the climax.
Nevertheless, I really, really liked this book. It constantly kept me engaged and turning pages. So, I'm giving it a solid five stars!
I loved it so, so much! It hit all the right spots for me. Fun, funny, dark, sarcastic, a little tragic, interesting setting, and even some intriguing worldbuilding.
The story in a nutshell:
Callie James is a slacker highschooler with a passion for robotics and surfing and little else. One day during a freak storm, she finds a glowy rod thing under the waves - which would be only a weird phenomenon if it didn't make her hands glow all on their own and make her robotics project come to life.
What she learns next plunges her into a strange world of ancient magic, parallel universes, wizards, monsters, mechs, and messy first love.
Her only guides: a reclusive old professor, and a very attractive ghost - and she's not sure if she can trust either.
The story was well-crafted, exciting, and contained many twists I didn't see coming (and quite a few I saw a mile away). Callie makes a likeably self-effacing protagonist, with a snarky voice that's a joy to read and a difficult family that she often clashes with in uncomfortably real ways.
A couple downsides:
The worldbuilding, while interesting, was underdeveloped. I felt like it could have gone deeper, like there was a promise of more that can and should have been shared. Since this is the first book in a trilogy, we'll doubtless get more as we go - but I still felt the lack.
And a few elements were included but then dropped when they might have been woven back into the story for greater effect - like Callie's surfing skills, Nemo the manic robot-pet, some of the familial tensions, some friend issues at Callie's school... Again, these might be resolved in later installments. But the book might have been stronger addressing them and including a resolution or at least incorporating elements into the climax.
Nevertheless, I really, really liked this book. It constantly kept me engaged and turning pages. So, I'm giving it a solid five stars!
July 29, 2021
I'm not sure how to go about reviewing this book. I liked it...maybe 3.5 stars? Generally, I really enjoy fantasy and science fiction, and this is a good ya book I think many people will enjoy. I think there were just a few too many plot holes for me. I think what annoyed me and keeps this from being a 4-star review is how over and over the story would introduce a hint at something mysterious in the story explaining why things were happening, but then the characters would clearly state that the mystery wouldn't be revealed yet...they (and we) had to wait to know the answer without really having a good reason for that and then the reveals were a little bit of a let down as they came because of the buildup.
I am okay with mild Cliffhangers that mostly tie up loose ends and leave just a couple dangling for the next in a series, but I don't care for the kind where the story just abruptly ends at a drastic point and makes you wait or go get the next book. I wish that wasn't becoming a common thing in fiction, especially in the YA books I pick up.
I'm sorry I didn't give very much positive in this review. I did like it, but there were a lot of things I didn't like about the way the plot built, some of the characters themselves and then the rushed-feeling ending that leaves you hanging.
I do this is appropriate for teens and older who enjoy robots, surfing, portal world fantasy and science fiction.
I am okay with mild Cliffhangers that mostly tie up loose ends and leave just a couple dangling for the next in a series, but I don't care for the kind where the story just abruptly ends at a drastic point and makes you wait or go get the next book. I wish that wasn't becoming a common thing in fiction, especially in the YA books I pick up.
I'm sorry I didn't give very much positive in this review. I did like it, but there were a lot of things I didn't like about the way the plot built, some of the characters themselves and then the rushed-feeling ending that leaves you hanging.
I do this is appropriate for teens and older who enjoy robots, surfing, portal world fantasy and science fiction.
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