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Lesser Known Monsters #3
The Torn Earth
Nothing is as dangerous as a broken heart...
Two years have passed. The events at Stonehenge have left the group, and their hearts, fractured and heavy with sorrow. There’s no worse time to learn existence is in peril from an overwhelming power battering down the veil between worlds. To stop it, they must do what they have prevented before, and open a door to Theia—the place some call hell, where the hint of a morning star glimmers on the dark horizon. That means they must reunite to fight for survival, the future, and love…one last time.
The LESSER KNOWN MONSTERS series is a dark queer fantasy featuring diverse characters on a found family adventure. Perfect for fans of horror and paranormal romance who seek LGBTQ+ heroes.
Two years have passed. The events at Stonehenge have left the group, and their hearts, fractured and heavy with sorrow. There’s no worse time to learn existence is in peril from an overwhelming power battering down the veil between worlds. To stop it, they must do what they have prevented before, and open a door to Theia—the place some call hell, where the hint of a morning star glimmers on the dark horizon. That means they must reunite to fight for survival, the future, and love…one last time.
The LESSER KNOWN MONSTERS series is a dark queer fantasy featuring diverse characters on a found family adventure. Perfect for fans of horror and paranormal romance who seek LGBTQ+ heroes.
506 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 13, 2022
16 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
About the author
Rory Michaelson
5 books116 followersRory Michaelson is always doing too many things, and rarely the ones that they ought to be. The Lesser Known Monsters series includes Rory’s debut novel and short story collection. They were born and raised in the UK, love stories in all forms, and are easily bribed with cookies.
You can follow Rory on Twitter (and other social media platforms) for shenanigans @RoryMichaelson, or subscribe to their newsletter at RoryMichaelson.com.
You can follow Rory on Twitter (and other social media platforms) for shenanigans @RoryMichaelson, or subscribe to their newsletter at RoryMichaelson.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 28, 2022
It has been days since I’ve finished The Torn Earth and I am still unsure if I can accurately put my emotions regarding this story into words but I will try my very best.
This is the conclusion this series deserves. Michaelson returns us to the world of the Lesser Known Monsters two years after the events of The Bone Gate. I enjoyed how the book was sectioned into different POVs, letting us get inside the heads of all of our favorite characters.
I was instantly drawn back into this universe even though it has been quite awhile since I finished book two. It felt like being reunited with old friends. As the plot builds and things began to ramp up to one of the best epic battle scenes I’ve ever read, my heart was in my throat and I couldn’t put the book down until I knew what happened.
AND THAT ENDING! I won’t spoil anything but it was the perfect way to tie up this series. I also highly recommend readers who haven’t read The Little Book of Lesser Known Monsters read it before this book because seeing those characters show up in this story was so satisfying.
In conclusion, I loved everything about this book and this series. It is one of the best queer fantasies I’ve ever read. Michaelson has made their mark on the world of queer literature with this masterpiece.
*I was given an ARC of this book by the author and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
This is the conclusion this series deserves. Michaelson returns us to the world of the Lesser Known Monsters two years after the events of The Bone Gate. I enjoyed how the book was sectioned into different POVs, letting us get inside the heads of all of our favorite characters.
I was instantly drawn back into this universe even though it has been quite awhile since I finished book two. It felt like being reunited with old friends. As the plot builds and things began to ramp up to one of the best epic battle scenes I’ve ever read, my heart was in my throat and I couldn’t put the book down until I knew what happened.
AND THAT ENDING! I won’t spoil anything but it was the perfect way to tie up this series. I also highly recommend readers who haven’t read The Little Book of Lesser Known Monsters read it before this book because seeing those characters show up in this story was so satisfying.
In conclusion, I loved everything about this book and this series. It is one of the best queer fantasies I’ve ever read. Michaelson has made their mark on the world of queer literature with this masterpiece.
*I was given an ARC of this book by the author and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
August 14, 2022
A fitting end to a magnificent series
There is so much I want to say about this book (and this series), not the least of which is that my life is so much better having had this story and these characters in it. While I am sad that The Torn Earth is the conclusion to a wonderful trilogy, I am not left wanting. I don’t believe there is a more perfect finale for the story, the characters, and the world they exist in.
Michaelson brings the gang back one last time after the tumultuous events of book two. Each character deals with grief, healing, and new Earth-shattering predicaments—each of which is handled beautifully between dramatic descriptive prose and Michaelson’s signature comedic relief. Having spent two books with these characters, watching their arcs unfold when faced with the impossible is both satisfying and engaging. I think it’s fair to say I’ve been highly invested in where Marcus, Zara, Dmitri, and Oscar end up.
As stated in The Bone Gate, ‘new beginnings don’t always mean happy endings.’ That theme persists in The Torn Earth as the gang faces a breach in Theia and Earth as well as insidious enemies hellbent on absolute power. Michaelson balances a myriad of baddies with an Earth-ending catastrophe and somehow still manages to create an elaborate weaving of characters and their personal journeys...not to mention navigating the potential end of the worlds.
Composed differently than its predecessors, The Torn Earth spans seven acts, each of which is centered on one of the main characters. I personally loved this stylistic choice, as I was able to be immersed in the story of each character while watching the threads meet and tangle with one another to create a full and complex story.
As always, the artwork within the book is magnificent. The taxonomic entries are utterly amazing, and I love the tie-ins throughout the chapters as well as the previous books. Seeing some familiar faces from The Little Book of Lesser Known Monsters was a pleasant surprise and I highly suggest giving the companion short stories a read before starting The Torn Earth.
Overall, this book (and series) is one of the most well-written fantasies out there today. The complex characters, the queer representation, the diversity, and touching storylines are bar none. And the ending…it honestly could not have been more perfect. Michaelson has managed to bring everything, even small ties to the first book, full circle. The Lesser Known Monsters trilogy feels complete, and I could not have asked for a better conclusion and wrap-up of so many characters and their lives (both stated and imagined).
There is so much I want to say about this book (and this series), not the least of which is that my life is so much better having had this story and these characters in it. While I am sad that The Torn Earth is the conclusion to a wonderful trilogy, I am not left wanting. I don’t believe there is a more perfect finale for the story, the characters, and the world they exist in.
Michaelson brings the gang back one last time after the tumultuous events of book two. Each character deals with grief, healing, and new Earth-shattering predicaments—each of which is handled beautifully between dramatic descriptive prose and Michaelson’s signature comedic relief. Having spent two books with these characters, watching their arcs unfold when faced with the impossible is both satisfying and engaging. I think it’s fair to say I’ve been highly invested in where Marcus, Zara, Dmitri, and Oscar end up.
As stated in The Bone Gate, ‘new beginnings don’t always mean happy endings.’ That theme persists in The Torn Earth as the gang faces a breach in Theia and Earth as well as insidious enemies hellbent on absolute power. Michaelson balances a myriad of baddies with an Earth-ending catastrophe and somehow still manages to create an elaborate weaving of characters and their personal journeys...not to mention navigating the potential end of the worlds.
Composed differently than its predecessors, The Torn Earth spans seven acts, each of which is centered on one of the main characters. I personally loved this stylistic choice, as I was able to be immersed in the story of each character while watching the threads meet and tangle with one another to create a full and complex story.
As always, the artwork within the book is magnificent. The taxonomic entries are utterly amazing, and I love the tie-ins throughout the chapters as well as the previous books. Seeing some familiar faces from The Little Book of Lesser Known Monsters was a pleasant surprise and I highly suggest giving the companion short stories a read before starting The Torn Earth.
Overall, this book (and series) is one of the most well-written fantasies out there today. The complex characters, the queer representation, the diversity, and touching storylines are bar none. And the ending…it honestly could not have been more perfect. Michaelson has managed to bring everything, even small ties to the first book, full circle. The Lesser Known Monsters trilogy feels complete, and I could not have asked for a better conclusion and wrap-up of so many characters and their lives (both stated and imagined).
May 20, 2022
A great end to the series! Each character got their moment to shine & I continue to love them all! There's a couple of surprises along the way, the humour continues to be top-notch, and Michaelson's writing flows really easily.
I stayed up till 2am to finish it (always a mark of a good book!) and it didn't disappoint!
This is a series I can see myself returning to when I want something I know I'll enjoy to re-read.
I stayed up till 2am to finish it (always a mark of a good book!) and it didn't disappoint!
This is a series I can see myself returning to when I want something I know I'll enjoy to re-read.
May 24, 2022
Having been disappointed many times by series ends that don't quite stick the landing, I am pleased to report that this finale is every bit as satisfying as all the other entries in this fantastic series. I rarely reread books because my to-be-read pile is always out of control, but I am very tempted to go back and read this entire series again because it is just that good. Incredible character arcs, seemingly effortless and engaging worldbuilding, relationships you get so invested in, genuine thrills and chills, loving queer rep, outstanding writing - I can't think of a single thing not to absolutely adore here. This author and these books deserve the widest audience possible, and I can't wait to see what they do next!
May 14, 2022
This is the most amazing end to a trilogy I've read yet. Buckle up, as it's even wilder than the previous books! 🎢
TL;DR review:
It's not often a trilogy gets better with each book (all too often book 1 is the best), but I'd argue that for LESSER KNOWN MONSTERS, each book is a little better than the previous one 🙌 It's queer, it's funny, it's scary, it's emotional. Laugh, cry, and restrain yourself from tossing it across the room. The ending is nothing less than superb.
Longer, more in-depth review:
On friendship and the characters:
Considering where book 2 left us... Book 3 focuses on a different character per "arc". I personally loved this approach, as it gave us the room to get to know every character a little better. It also was a great way to show the various issues that were going on at the same time, because yeah... things are BAD and the world is ending yet again 😩 No rest for the wicked lol.
The banter that we became so used to was back and I didn't even know how much I'd missed it until I read it again 🙌 In that regard, I absolutely LOVE Marcus 🙌
There's also a "new" animal character and omg, I absolutely adore her! 🦆
On LGBTQ+:
The previous books were already radiating rainbows, and well, that doesn't change in book 3. Hell, it gets even more intense 🌈 Also, there's one bit where a side character stepped out of the closet on accident and it was just so cute ♥
On lesser known monsters:
You should have already read The Little Book of Lesser Known Monsters (TLBoLKM) before starting book 2, so if you still haven't done so yet: be sure to read that before starting book 3! Because this book goes beyond Easter eggs and it's just super extra awesome to experience all these amazing moments if you've read TLBoLKM 😎 #TeamKnud 👹
This book too has illustrations galore and there are some REALLY epic ones 🙌 Be sure to check available merch (before or after reading, I won't judge 😜) if you can't get enough of the glorious artworks ♥
On style:
The book is written in third person, following multiple perspectives (switches per arc). As I said in my review of book one: "Rory has a very accessible writing style that makes this book all the easier and faster to devour. They're witty and funny, but they're also fully capable of tearing out your heart..."
I've laughed a lot with this book but also had multiple moments where I was raging and cussing and wanted to throw my laptop (early access shhh 🤫) because AAAARGH (which is just proof of good writing 🙌)
If you recall how book 2 ended (how could you not), that level of soul-crushing won't happen again. Emphasis on "that level" though because 😬😱 but no spoilers 👀
All you need to know is that it's GOOD ✨
Final notes:
This was a great book, an amazing climax to the trilogy, and I'd call it an extremely satisfying conclusion ♥ The latter can't be said of all series, so, yeah 🙌 Rory did a great job 👏
~ Also also: the dog doesn't die, and neither does the duck 👀
...
#TeamKnud! 👹
TL;DR review:
It's not often a trilogy gets better with each book (all too often book 1 is the best), but I'd argue that for LESSER KNOWN MONSTERS, each book is a little better than the previous one 🙌 It's queer, it's funny, it's scary, it's emotional. Laugh, cry, and restrain yourself from tossing it across the room. The ending is nothing less than superb.
Longer, more in-depth review:
On friendship and the characters:
Considering where book 2 left us... Book 3 focuses on a different character per "arc". I personally loved this approach, as it gave us the room to get to know every character a little better. It also was a great way to show the various issues that were going on at the same time, because yeah... things are BAD and the world is ending yet again 😩 No rest for the wicked lol.
The banter that we became so used to was back and I didn't even know how much I'd missed it until I read it again 🙌 In that regard, I absolutely LOVE Marcus 🙌
There's also a "new" animal character and omg, I absolutely adore her! 🦆
On LGBTQ+:
The previous books were already radiating rainbows, and well, that doesn't change in book 3. Hell, it gets even more intense 🌈 Also, there's one bit where a side character stepped out of the closet on accident and it was just so cute ♥
On lesser known monsters:
You should have already read The Little Book of Lesser Known Monsters (TLBoLKM) before starting book 2, so if you still haven't done so yet: be sure to read that before starting book 3! Because this book goes beyond Easter eggs and it's just super extra awesome to experience all these amazing moments if you've read TLBoLKM 😎 #TeamKnud 👹
This book too has illustrations galore and there are some REALLY epic ones 🙌 Be sure to check available merch (before or after reading, I won't judge 😜) if you can't get enough of the glorious artworks ♥
On style:
The book is written in third person, following multiple perspectives (switches per arc). As I said in my review of book one: "Rory has a very accessible writing style that makes this book all the easier and faster to devour. They're witty and funny, but they're also fully capable of tearing out your heart..."
I've laughed a lot with this book but also had multiple moments where I was raging and cussing and wanted to throw my laptop (early access shhh 🤫) because AAAARGH (which is just proof of good writing 🙌)
If you recall how book 2 ended (how could you not), that level of soul-crushing won't happen again. Emphasis on "that level" though because 😬😱 but no spoilers 👀
All you need to know is that it's GOOD ✨
Final notes:
This was a great book, an amazing climax to the trilogy, and I'd call it an extremely satisfying conclusion ♥ The latter can't be said of all series, so, yeah 🙌 Rory did a great job 👏
~ Also also: the dog doesn't die, and neither does the duck 👀
...
#TeamKnud! 👹
March 20, 2022
A gong smash of an ending to a (literally) earth-shattering series.
THE TORN EARTH is an emotional roller coaster filled with apocalyptic stakes and universal peril. More than once, Rory Michaelson carved open my chest to stomp on my heart, and I thank them for the beautiful pain. As an author, they make the reader feel and suffer alongside the characters—characters who have become your family by this point.
This third and final book in the series is a jaw-dropping, skyrocketing ride. Two years have passed since the soul-smashing tragedy that ended the previous book (no spoilers), and our beloved gang must reunite to save the dying world(s). There are new monsters and new realms, found family and found courage, along with outstanding diversity, powerful friendships, and top-notch wit. The characters all undergo massive growth and development, then learn how to rediscover themselves and heal after trauma and change. There is also more Herculean action and battle-hungry badassery in this latest installment, with extra bloodthirst and luscious gore. It satisfies on all levels and beyond.
It was extremely tough to say goodbye to this universe. I will dearly miss these characters and these worlds. At its core, this series is about humans with monstrosity and monsters with humanity. There is a power in belonging, and Michaelson ensures everyone belongs in their books. Buy it, binge it, and worship it. 5 stars, an overwhelming success—now please excuse me while I mop up my river of tears.
THE TORN EARTH is an emotional roller coaster filled with apocalyptic stakes and universal peril. More than once, Rory Michaelson carved open my chest to stomp on my heart, and I thank them for the beautiful pain. As an author, they make the reader feel and suffer alongside the characters—characters who have become your family by this point.
This third and final book in the series is a jaw-dropping, skyrocketing ride. Two years have passed since the soul-smashing tragedy that ended the previous book (no spoilers), and our beloved gang must reunite to save the dying world(s). There are new monsters and new realms, found family and found courage, along with outstanding diversity, powerful friendships, and top-notch wit. The characters all undergo massive growth and development, then learn how to rediscover themselves and heal after trauma and change. There is also more Herculean action and battle-hungry badassery in this latest installment, with extra bloodthirst and luscious gore. It satisfies on all levels and beyond.
It was extremely tough to say goodbye to this universe. I will dearly miss these characters and these worlds. At its core, this series is about humans with monstrosity and monsters with humanity. There is a power in belonging, and Michaelson ensures everyone belongs in their books. Buy it, binge it, and worship it. 5 stars, an overwhelming success—now please excuse me while I mop up my river of tears.
May 21, 2022
At the end of everything, I can only thank the author for an incredible experience and journey through the darkness and light. Through hope and desperation. Those who know me better know how I feel now, because I don’t like endings and partings. I don’t like saying goodbye to The Torn Earth and Lesser Known Monsters series, nor to their heroes and villains. I hate to accept that it is over and somewhere deep inside of me, I will keep the spark of hope burning that Rory Michaelson will find strength to resurrect their story, as brief or short as it may be. But this is something they and their monsters will have to decide as they hunt each other down the channel of time, into the future.
When my heart is full like now, I am a man of few words. A firework of emotions flashes in my heart and mind with the images from this dark, merciless, exciting, gory, and emotional story. In which saving the world is important as saving love, where one cannot exist without another. This is a hymn of intimacy and the power of genuine love in a world spinning on the edge of destruction. And I love listening to it and processing it with my torn heart in the silent moments of my intimacy and peace.
“Not all happy endings are the same and . . . darkness and light live within us all. But what really counts is what we do and who we love, and how we are loved in turn.”—Rory Michaelson
When my heart is full like now, I am a man of few words. A firework of emotions flashes in my heart and mind with the images from this dark, merciless, exciting, gory, and emotional story. In which saving the world is important as saving love, where one cannot exist without another. This is a hymn of intimacy and the power of genuine love in a world spinning on the edge of destruction. And I love listening to it and processing it with my torn heart in the silent moments of my intimacy and peace.
“Not all happy endings are the same and . . . darkness and light live within us all. But what really counts is what we do and who we love, and how we are loved in turn.”—Rory Michaelson
May 26, 2022
Wow! Just wow! Rory Michaelson really outdid themselves with this book. The story was riveting and action packed. The characters were lovable and complex. The world building was phenomenal. Overall, an incredible conclusion to an amazing series!
July 14, 2022
I cannot honestly put into words how much I loved this series. It was everything I'd been looking for in a book and I'm so glad it exists. The way the series built on each installment, the visceral, cinematic feel each and every scene had, superbly written action sequences, and of course the romance.
It's been a long time since I'd read a book where I loved every single character, where I was as deeply invested in the supporting characters as I was the main ones, and this entire series had me invested with almost every single person who showed up on the page.
The ending ripped me apart, then the epilogue put me back together again. I couldn't have asked for a better experience when reading this series.
It's been a long time since I'd read a book where I loved every single character, where I was as deeply invested in the supporting characters as I was the main ones, and this entire series had me invested with almost every single person who showed up on the page.
The ending ripped me apart, then the epilogue put me back together again. I couldn't have asked for a better experience when reading this series.
March 20, 2022
We know these monsters well now!
What a ride! Strong characters and development and a fantastic world that feels a bit like a second home. This last chapter feels darker, more dour, and razor focused as our heroes rush to save the world another time. New and returning side characters breathe extra life into this thoughtful and exciting book. I don’t want to give anything away but was surprised at twists for certain characters. Some were left in worse shape than others. Solid ending but with plenty of world to explore on a later date. Or when Netflix, HULU, or Peacock procure the rights to make the television series.
GAYVENGERS ASSEMBLE!!
What a ride! Strong characters and development and a fantastic world that feels a bit like a second home. This last chapter feels darker, more dour, and razor focused as our heroes rush to save the world another time. New and returning side characters breathe extra life into this thoughtful and exciting book. I don’t want to give anything away but was surprised at twists for certain characters. Some were left in worse shape than others. Solid ending but with plenty of world to explore on a later date. Or when Netflix, HULU, or Peacock procure the rights to make the television series.
GAYVENGERS ASSEMBLE!!
May 19, 2023
The PERFECT ending to this incredible series!
I ADORED this book. I really enjoyed the first 2 of the trilogy and highly recommend them to any/everyone that can get a copy. But this book is my favourite of the three, and no it is not just recency bias. The writing, as always, was top tier. Especially the dialogue which remains my favourite part of the entire series due in large part to its wit, irreverence and pop-culture references.
This book is a lot different from the first two however in that it is told through the pov's of multiple characters, not just Oscar. At first I was concerned that this would make the book feel directionless or badly paced, oh how wrong I was. Not only does this make the book 100% better, it actually makes me wish the first two had some form of this so we can understand what all the characters motives and reactions are fully. To me though, the stars of this book are undoubtedly Zara and Marcus. Their stories always resonated deeply with me, but the way they are handled in this book and how they react so differently in the face of trauma and grief really moved me. Paige remains the big bad gyal she's always been, though in the face of Oscars loss I really loved how it not only humanised her, but allowed her to unpack a lot of the generational trauma that has affected her through her life.
Anyway, enough of me writing war and peace (which itself is a dreadful book that I would NOT recommend) I loved this and cannot wait to get lost in the world and the characters again on a second read through.
And then.... something moved.
I ADORED this book. I really enjoyed the first 2 of the trilogy and highly recommend them to any/everyone that can get a copy. But this book is my favourite of the three, and no it is not just recency bias. The writing, as always, was top tier. Especially the dialogue which remains my favourite part of the entire series due in large part to its wit, irreverence and pop-culture references.
This book is a lot different from the first two however in that it is told through the pov's of multiple characters, not just Oscar. At first I was concerned that this would make the book feel directionless or badly paced, oh how wrong I was. Not only does this make the book 100% better, it actually makes me wish the first two had some form of this so we can understand what all the characters motives and reactions are fully. To me though, the stars of this book are undoubtedly Zara and Marcus. Their stories always resonated deeply with me, but the way they are handled in this book and how they react so differently in the face of trauma and grief really moved me. Paige remains the big bad gyal she's always been, though in the face of Oscars loss I really loved how it not only humanised her, but allowed her to unpack a lot of the generational trauma that has affected her through her life.
Anyway, enough of me writing war and peace (which itself is a dreadful book that I would NOT recommend) I loved this and cannot wait to get lost in the world and the characters again on a second read through.
And then.... something moved.
November 29, 2022
THAT ENDING THOUGH UGH
rtk because it's a crime that this only has 78 ratings
rtk because it's a crime that this only has 78 ratings
January 12, 2024
“All stories have happy endings if you know when to stop telling them.
How can I describe or review this series...
First of all:
- I stopped this book a year ago, because I was overwhelmed with great books and right after that, discovered The Cradle Series by Will Wight, which sucked me in like nothing else. Nevertheless, after a year of just having read less than 20% of this book, I knew who the characters were from the bat, I remembered them, I already rooted for them, I knew who they were, I knew where we were in the story and the stakes they were risking.
- Also, this was for sure one of the greatest endings that I have read :~ I cried my eyes out for the last 15% of the book.
- You know when you finish a book and think 'I wanna read this again immediatly'? This was it for me.
- You can see Rory has a unique voice when it comes to storytelling.
- Paige is so much a character that I love to have in stories: the one we love to hate.
- It's so gory hehe
BUT. but but but..
So yeah... Would I recomend it? Definetly, but go aware.
How can I describe or review this series...
First of all:
- I stopped this book a year ago, because I was overwhelmed with great books and right after that, discovered The Cradle Series by Will Wight, which sucked me in like nothing else. Nevertheless, after a year of just having read less than 20% of this book, I knew who the characters were from the bat, I remembered them, I already rooted for them, I knew who they were, I knew where we were in the story and the stakes they were risking.
- Also, this was for sure one of the greatest endings that I have read :~ I cried my eyes out for the last 15% of the book.
- You know when you finish a book and think 'I wanna read this again immediatly'? This was it for me.
- You can see Rory has a unique voice when it comes to storytelling.
- Paige is so much a character that I love to have in stories: the one we love to hate.
- It's so gory hehe
BUT. but but but..
So yeah... Would I recomend it? Definetly, but go aware.
November 19, 2022
OK, I'm assuming that you have read Book 1 (Lesser Known Monsters) and Book 2 (The Bone Gate) and couldn't wait to read this book. IMHO, these books were second to none in this genre. Rory Michaelson is, without a doubt, a masterful storyteller. The main characters (Oscar, Dimitri, Marcus, Song, Zara, and Vandle) were fascinating, original, and extremely well-developed. The storyline which connected all three books was so imaginative, yet understandable in its presentation, that it drew you in and kept your rapt attention. You looked forward to each book with great anticipation to find out what fates would befall these characters that you have come to love. I was never bored, but often filled with great angst and hope. There were bits of sarcasm, wit, and humor as well, which were unexpected but surely welcomed, in order to further imbibe the characters' personalities and reduce the reader's anxiety. The descriptions of places and settings were remarkably vivid, both physically and sensually. (Yet, very few intimate sexual references were included in the telling of these tales - which I found completely appropriate. We, as readers, know that the characters are Queer, but their sexuality is not the main focus of the story. Saving the world from annihilation by paranormal creatures is the focus.) Other than TJ Klune's Green Creek book series, I have found no other Queer paranormal stories that come close to these works. It's been several days since I finished "The Torn Earth" and my heart still aches for Oscar and Dimitri. It may seem strange or odd that a reader may feel such an emotional attachment to a book(s), but that is the effect that Michaelson - as a writer - has on their audience. Thank you, Rory, for writing such wonderful stories. I look forward to reading more from you in the future! PS: Don't miss reading Rory Michaelson's other book, "The Little Book of Lesser Known Monsters," too!
March 10, 2023
"For certain kinds of love, there is no past, present or future tense. There is only... love."
After reading the first two books, I was expecting to give this another 3 (hopefully 4) star read. I was wrong, I LOVED the final conclusion of this book!
I think the reason I enjoyed this one so much is I had trouble with believing Dimitri and Oscar's relationship in previous books. Especially in comparison to the other relationships shown (platonic and romantic) which became more obvious in this book; Zara and her various love interests for example, Paige and Hunter, Marcus and Song etc. Due to the events of the last book, there was a focus on the other characters and relationships here and it majorly paid off.
I loved being with Zara, Paige, Vandal and Marcus. Song, Bean Nighe, Ducky, Lyn and Ed were other wonderful characters we got to have more time with in this book. The fight scenes were tense and thrilling, the relationships were so full of love. I had an idea this book was going to have somewhat of a... tragic end for some. But it was done so well and the author made all the right choices in my opinion. Oscar was a different protagonist to what I'm used too, but I love that the series started and ended with him at the heart of it. Along with his kindness and his love for the others.
"They will know not all happy endings are the same and that darkness and light live within us all. But what really counts is what we do and who we love, and how we love in return."
After reading the first two books, I was expecting to give this another 3 (hopefully 4) star read. I was wrong, I LOVED the final conclusion of this book!
I think the reason I enjoyed this one so much is I had trouble with believing Dimitri and Oscar's relationship in previous books. Especially in comparison to the other relationships shown (platonic and romantic) which became more obvious in this book; Zara and her various love interests for example, Paige and Hunter, Marcus and Song etc. Due to the events of the last book, there was a focus on the other characters and relationships here and it majorly paid off.
I loved being with Zara, Paige, Vandal and Marcus. Song, Bean Nighe, Ducky, Lyn and Ed were other wonderful characters we got to have more time with in this book. The fight scenes were tense and thrilling, the relationships were so full of love. I had an idea this book was going to have somewhat of a... tragic end for some. But it was done so well and the author made all the right choices in my opinion. Oscar was a different protagonist to what I'm used too, but I love that the series started and ended with him at the heart of it. Along with his kindness and his love for the others.
"They will know not all happy endings are the same and that darkness and light live within us all. But what really counts is what we do and who we love, and how we love in return."
July 12, 2022
This series-ending book starts off swinging and does not let up at all. It's full of action, drama, laughs, and tears. It picks up two years after the events of The Bone Gate (Lesser Known Monsters book 2), and it does not disappoint in its narrative, storytelling, or anything else. This book was 475 pages long, but I had it finished from page one all the way to the tear-soaked climax and finale less than 48 hours later. I can't recommend this series enough. It's super satisfying and super queer. Each of the characters in this series brings something different to the table, and they mesh so well together. Michaelson put together something that kicks more ass than book series that have been making splashes on Netflix and other streaming services. This would be perfectly adaptable, and it's a shame a live-action series isn't already in development.
There's not much else to say since I'm still gushing over this book days after finishing it. I don't know where the author will go next now that this series has ended, but I'll be there for it!
There's not much else to say since I'm still gushing over this book days after finishing it. I don't know where the author will go next now that this series has ended, but I'll be there for it!
June 15, 2022
The third and last book of the series was exactly everything I wanted it to be. Angsty, fraught with action danger and another plot to save the world from being destroyed. Set two years after the events at Stonehenge, our intrepid crew of multicultural queer-vengers are broken and fragmented, each searching for something that they may never find. Marcus, having acquired some powerful allies, and near god like powers has yet again discovered that Earth and Theia are on a collision course to destruction and decides it's time to get the band back together. Unfortunately, more trouble than just certain doom seems to be brewing as an evil organization called the Order of Helios has reared it's ugly head. Good things happen, many bad things happen, but in the end, I was completely satisfied with the conclusion of this series. The final illustrations at the end of the book made it all better. Definitely one of my favorite series I've read this year.
July 8, 2022
Another new voice in epic LGBTQ fantasy!
When meeting Rory Michaelson's cast in Book 1 of the Lesser Known Monsters trilogy, I got the feeling the author must be a fan of shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer or Legacies. They were artfully appealing without being too unattractively broken, surviving their trauma without too many scars, and still able to zing each other. Pleasant, but not too deep.
Boy, did that change. Rory developed some of the most heartbreaking experiences for this family, introducing shocking plot twists and surprises. It got really, really messy, and by then I'd fallen in love with them all. The excitement kept climbing right through this third and concluding novel and never stopped being fun! There's nothing wrong with that.
I recommend it heartily to fans of TJ Klune. And THAT'S a compliment, Rory!
When meeting Rory Michaelson's cast in Book 1 of the Lesser Known Monsters trilogy, I got the feeling the author must be a fan of shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer or Legacies. They were artfully appealing without being too unattractively broken, surviving their trauma without too many scars, and still able to zing each other. Pleasant, but not too deep.
Boy, did that change. Rory developed some of the most heartbreaking experiences for this family, introducing shocking plot twists and surprises. It got really, really messy, and by then I'd fallen in love with them all. The excitement kept climbing right through this third and concluding novel and never stopped being fun! There's nothing wrong with that.
I recommend it heartily to fans of TJ Klune. And THAT'S a compliment, Rory!
February 2, 2023
I've been holding my breath while I waited for book three of the Lesser known Monsters series. And I wasn't disappointed.
I liked that this book picks up the story two years after the end of book two. The characters have all been living and growing separately from each other, and they aren't the same people (or monsters) I knew from before.
Interestingly, the focus of this book shifts markedly between different characters, more so than the other two books. In book one, the main characters were definitely Dimitri and Oscar. In book two, we see the development of Zara and Marcus with their own storylines. In book three, Zara takes more of main character role, which is a refreshing new perspective on the story.
I love these characters, and the outrageousness of the plot and worlds. Well done Rory!
I liked that this book picks up the story two years after the end of book two. The characters have all been living and growing separately from each other, and they aren't the same people (or monsters) I knew from before.
Interestingly, the focus of this book shifts markedly between different characters, more so than the other two books. In book one, the main characters were definitely Dimitri and Oscar. In book two, we see the development of Zara and Marcus with their own storylines. In book three, Zara takes more of main character role, which is a refreshing new perspective on the story.
I love these characters, and the outrageousness of the plot and worlds. Well done Rory!
December 10, 2024
I really enjoyed this series, and I'm glad I read the trilogy.
Pros: The characters, the utilisation of magic (I think the magical dynamic between Marcus and Song is one of the most intriguing uses of magic I've ever seen), the willingness to explore minority characters without them being stereotypes, the humour, the way that action scenes are described in glorious detail, the generous helping of POVs.
Cons: There is a little too much wisecrack humour for me at times, I would love if some scenes could play out a little more seriously to balance it all out a little. I felt like there almost too many story threads to unravel in this one book, which made everything a little congested towards the end.
Overall, really enjoyed it, looking forward to whatever new stories Rory writes in the future.
Pros: The characters, the utilisation of magic (I think the magical dynamic between Marcus and Song is one of the most intriguing uses of magic I've ever seen), the willingness to explore minority characters without them being stereotypes, the humour, the way that action scenes are described in glorious detail, the generous helping of POVs.
Cons: There is a little too much wisecrack humour for me at times, I would love if some scenes could play out a little more seriously to balance it all out a little. I felt like there almost too many story threads to unravel in this one book, which made everything a little congested towards the end.
Overall, really enjoyed it, looking forward to whatever new stories Rory writes in the future.
dropped-dnf
July 29, 2022DNF @ 35%.
Michaelson killed off the main character at the end of book 2 so if you didn't particularly care for any of the side characters, this book isn't for you. Looking at reviews, there's a huge twist where that changes but I didn't get that far. Michaelson does great descriptive writing (the "food" during the dinner party particularly) and good characterisations but Marcus, Zara, and Oscar's sister seem to be the main elements here along with their side pieces and I'm not interested in any of them as much as Oscar and Dimitri.
Michaelson killed off the main character at the end of book 2 so if you didn't particularly care for any of the side characters, this book isn't for you. Looking at reviews, there's a huge twist where that changes but I didn't get that far. Michaelson does great descriptive writing (the "food" during the dinner party particularly) and good characterisations but Marcus, Zara, and Oscar's sister seem to be the main elements here along with their side pieces and I'm not interested in any of them as much as Oscar and Dimitri.
August 4, 2024
Strong conclusion to the series that neatly wraps up the story while making sure that every member of the ensemble cast gets a moment to shine. There are a few plot threads that feel like they could have benefited from having a bit more focus. Two characters in particular have a very dramatic shift occur that I think could have been interesting to explore more, possibly with a chapter or two from their perspectives.
The story and dialogue get a little cheesy at points, but I think it mostly works to its benefit and makes the characters more endearing, though your mileage may vary.
The story and dialogue get a little cheesy at points, but I think it mostly works to its benefit and makes the characters more endearing, though your mileage may vary.
July 8, 2025
I don't usually make it all the way through a book only to say that I'm glad that it's over. Just---too much. J.R.R. Tolkien this author is not. Too much going on, too many characters/monsters/events without enough to engage my give-a-hoot. So disappointed that after all that wading, the ending is just... sad. Hopeful, maybe, but I'm not here for it.
However, I think that's just me. I think Grisham's books (I dropped out at partway through The Pelican Brief and said "no more", while hundreds, even thousands were and still are raving about his work. So. Grain of salt.
However, I think that's just me. I think Grisham's books (I dropped out at partway through The Pelican Brief and said "no more", while hundreds, even thousands were and still are raving about his work. So. Grain of salt.
June 11, 2022
It has to be five stars!
I loved this whole series, it’s just full of so much charm and fun and everything I love.
I waited for the final book for what felt like ages and then as soon as I started I was sucked right back in to these characters lives. It’s brilliant and I don’t think it’ll be long before I go right back to the start to do it all again!
Rory Michaelson is a genius! I will read what ever comes next and probably love it just as much!
I loved this whole series, it’s just full of so much charm and fun and everything I love.
I waited for the final book for what felt like ages and then as soon as I started I was sucked right back in to these characters lives. It’s brilliant and I don’t think it’ll be long before I go right back to the start to do it all again!
Rory Michaelson is a genius! I will read what ever comes next and probably love it just as much!
November 28, 2025
This finale to a series primarily focused on exploring the shades of difference between 'monsters' and humans brings back dozens of characters from previous books ... I had to refresh my memory banks a few times with quite a few vaguely familiar character names. The battle sequences escalate markedly from midway through this quite lengthy read and some extended scenes were brutal!! I definitely was not bored. 3.5 stars overall.
June 9, 2022
In the end it's just the beginning
Rory has done it again. And they do it so well. I have been on board the Lesser Known Monsters train since nearly the beginning. I have found a fresh perspective on urban fantasy. An all inclusive cast of characters who come together and fall apart and find themselves.
Hate never wins and that is a good thing.
Rory has done it again. And they do it so well. I have been on board the Lesser Known Monsters train since nearly the beginning. I have found a fresh perspective on urban fantasy. An all inclusive cast of characters who come together and fall apart and find themselves.
Hate never wins and that is a good thing.
May 21, 2022
Loved
I’ve enjoyed the Lesser Known Monsters series so much! The Torn Earth was such a ride! Exciting, tragic, heartbreaking, and fulfilling! I love Oscar, Zara, Dimitri, Marcus and the rest of the gang! This was a perfect ending to a wonderful seres! Highly recommend!
I’ve enjoyed the Lesser Known Monsters series so much! The Torn Earth was such a ride! Exciting, tragic, heartbreaking, and fulfilling! I love Oscar, Zara, Dimitri, Marcus and the rest of the gang! This was a perfect ending to a wonderful seres! Highly recommend!
June 15, 2024
The Torn Earth
The concluding book in The Lesser Known Monsters series finds our protagonists having to save both Theia and Earth.
It is epic in its scope filled with passion and emotion. Rory Michaelson has created a Queer masterpiece.
The concluding book in The Lesser Known Monsters series finds our protagonists having to save both Theia and Earth.
It is epic in its scope filled with passion and emotion. Rory Michaelson has created a Queer masterpiece.
January 6, 2023
Wonderful story. Great characters who pop off the pages and make you care and them. A fun, heart wrenching, and inspiring Queer story. Love it.
February 5, 2023
Absolutely amazing thanks for one of the best books I’ve read
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