What do you think?
Rate this book
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions
Lina Rather's A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is an eldritch historical fantasy of midwifery, monstrosity, and the rending of the world, for fans of The Essex Serpent and The Death of Jane Lawrence.
"An entrancing and transformative queer tale of cosmic horror."—Caitlin Starling
"A blood sacrifice of a novel."—Meg Elison
In 17th-century London, unnatural babies are being born, with eyes made for the dark and webbed digits suited to the sea.
Sarah Davis is intimately familiar with such strangeness—having hidden her uncanny nature all her life and fled to London under suspicious circumstances, Sarah starts over as a midwife’s apprentice to a member of the illegal Worshipful Company of Midwives, hoping to carve out for herself an independent life. But with each new unnatural birth, the fear in London grows of the Devil's work.
When the wealthy Lady Wren hires her to see her through her pregnancy, Sarah quickly becomes a favorite of her husband, the famous architect Lord Christopher Wren, whose interest in the uncanny borders on obsession. Sarah soon finds herself caught in a web of magic and intrigue created by those who want to use her power for themselves, and whose pursuits threaten to unmake the earth itself.
At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
"An entrancing and transformative queer tale of cosmic horror."—Caitlin Starling
"A blood sacrifice of a novel."—Meg Elison
In 17th-century London, unnatural babies are being born, with eyes made for the dark and webbed digits suited to the sea.
Sarah Davis is intimately familiar with such strangeness—having hidden her uncanny nature all her life and fled to London under suspicious circumstances, Sarah starts over as a midwife’s apprentice to a member of the illegal Worshipful Company of Midwives, hoping to carve out for herself an independent life. But with each new unnatural birth, the fear in London grows of the Devil's work.
When the wealthy Lady Wren hires her to see her through her pregnancy, Sarah quickly becomes a favorite of her husband, the famous architect Lord Christopher Wren, whose interest in the uncanny borders on obsession. Sarah soon finds herself caught in a web of magic and intrigue created by those who want to use her power for themselves, and whose pursuits threaten to unmake the earth itself.
At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2023
27 people are currently reading
6135 people want to read
About the author
Lina Rather
25 books312 followersLina Rather is a speculative fiction author from Michigan, now living in Washington, D.C. Her short fiction has appeared in venues including Lightspeed, Daily Science Fiction, and Shimmer. Her debut novella, Sisters of the Vast Black, is about nuns living in a giant slug in outer space and was published by Tor.Com Publishing in October 2019. When she isn’t writing, she likes to cook, go hiking, and collect terrible 90s comic books. Find out more about her and her writing at linarather.com or on Twitter @LinaRather.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 347 reviews
September 28, 2023
3.5 stars
I have the same problem with A Season of Monstrous Conceptions as I do many other novellas: I need more from it. A mere 160 pages just isn’t enough for Lina Rather’s amazing story.
Sarah Davis is a midwife’s apprentice in 17th-century London. It’s a time of great strangeness for the city, with women giving birth to monstrous babies and citizens whispering of the Devil roaming the streets. Struggling to find her footing as an independent woman, Sarah is tired of being used as a pawn, as a tool for others’ goals. So when she finds herself trapped in a dangerous game of magic with the fate of the world at stake, she must decide what’s more important – her own dark whims or humanity's survival.
There’s so much here for Rather to work with. From Sarah’s feminist fight to her hidden past and the dark rage within her. To the fascinating setting of 1675 London, a time when academics neither have discovered gravity nor even understand the science of conception. And then there’s the Other World, the mystical source of Sarah’s magic. It’s all ripe with potential, and the narrative could be developed so much further.
Can I please get a rewrite? A lengthier, denser, more epic historical fantasy novel instead? I’d give a lot to read a deeper dive into this story.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions publishes October 31st, 2023. Be sure to grab a copy because, novella or not, it’s very much worth a read.
My sincerest appreciation to Lina Rather, Tordotcom, and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
I have the same problem with A Season of Monstrous Conceptions as I do many other novellas: I need more from it. A mere 160 pages just isn’t enough for Lina Rather’s amazing story.
Sarah Davis is a midwife’s apprentice in 17th-century London. It’s a time of great strangeness for the city, with women giving birth to monstrous babies and citizens whispering of the Devil roaming the streets. Struggling to find her footing as an independent woman, Sarah is tired of being used as a pawn, as a tool for others’ goals. So when she finds herself trapped in a dangerous game of magic with the fate of the world at stake, she must decide what’s more important – her own dark whims or humanity's survival.
There’s so much here for Rather to work with. From Sarah’s feminist fight to her hidden past and the dark rage within her. To the fascinating setting of 1675 London, a time when academics neither have discovered gravity nor even understand the science of conception. And then there’s the Other World, the mystical source of Sarah’s magic. It’s all ripe with potential, and the narrative could be developed so much further.
Can I please get a rewrite? A lengthier, denser, more epic historical fantasy novel instead? I’d give a lot to read a deeper dive into this story.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions publishes October 31st, 2023. Be sure to grab a copy because, novella or not, it’s very much worth a read.
My sincerest appreciation to Lina Rather, Tordotcom, and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
November 1, 2023
Happy release week!
Thanks to Tor for a copy to review through Netgalley! A Season of Monstrous Conceptions will come into the world on October 31st. I very much enjoyed this memorable novella of historical fiction set in an era not often covered, the late 1600s, and spiced liberally with queerness and the uncanny.
Sarah is our bi protagonist with a dark past, now an apprentice midwife in London of the late 1600s. She is supernaturally gifted by the same force that is resulting in mutant births across the world: children with horns, bat wings, too many eyes, and more. I was surprised as anyone that a plot largely focusing on pregnancy would interest me, but I love to be unpredictable! In a historical context I find the topic approached much more pragmatically and just - differently, I guess.
The wild thing about this book is that it was fulfilling for me, as a novella that took upon itself a pretty steep challenge; present a historical setting, layer its fantastical plot over that, and give me characters to care about. And somehow it succeeds; if plot was liquor, then rather than a fully fledged cocktail, this book is a shot glass. A dose of concentrated storytelling with just enough worldbuilding to let it stand on its own. Sarah's past, her powers, the glimpses we get of a menacing, parallel world; I think the story really is best as a novella without overexamining its innards through a full-length book.
While I had some doubts about what these characters could get away with - the late 1600s felt treated more like the Victorian era here - I overall very much enjoyed this dark look at a surrealist, alternate history of England. I'd highly recommend it if you enjoy both fantastical elements and feminist overtones.
Thanks to Tor for a copy to review through Netgalley! A Season of Monstrous Conceptions will come into the world on October 31st. I very much enjoyed this memorable novella of historical fiction set in an era not often covered, the late 1600s, and spiced liberally with queerness and the uncanny.
Sarah is our bi protagonist with a dark past, now an apprentice midwife in London of the late 1600s. She is supernaturally gifted by the same force that is resulting in mutant births across the world: children with horns, bat wings, too many eyes, and more. I was surprised as anyone that a plot largely focusing on pregnancy would interest me, but I love to be unpredictable! In a historical context I find the topic approached much more pragmatically and just - differently, I guess.
The wild thing about this book is that it was fulfilling for me, as a novella that took upon itself a pretty steep challenge; present a historical setting, layer its fantastical plot over that, and give me characters to care about. And somehow it succeeds; if plot was liquor, then rather than a fully fledged cocktail, this book is a shot glass. A dose of concentrated storytelling with just enough worldbuilding to let it stand on its own. Sarah's past, her powers, the glimpses we get of a menacing, parallel world; I think the story really is best as a novella without overexamining its innards through a full-length book.
While I had some doubts about what these characters could get away with - the late 1600s felt treated more like the Victorian era here - I overall very much enjoyed this dark look at a surrealist, alternate history of England. I'd highly recommend it if you enjoy both fantastical elements and feminist overtones.
April 20, 2023
“a season of monstrous conceptions” is a novella set in an odd london. accused of being a witch after her husband’s death, sarah is in an apprenticeship as a midwife. when a baby is born with otherworldly “monstrous” attributes, she must fight to save not only the mothers, but the children as well.
this novella is very atmospheric; you feel as if you are in the room with the midwives and mothers. the magic is explained a little too loosely for my preferences, but the end was satisfying for the most part. i also adore the queer main character. a wonderful, darkly fun read.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review!
this novella is very atmospheric; you feel as if you are in the room with the midwives and mothers. the magic is explained a little too loosely for my preferences, but the end was satisfying for the most part. i also adore the queer main character. a wonderful, darkly fun read.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review!
Read
July 13, 2023This is Feminist English Historical With Minor Fantasy Elements and Light Foreboding Vibes (Medieval & Queer Options Selected).
If you like this kind of thing, you will probably like this thing. I don’t think there’s anything exactly wrong with it but I feel like I’ve read it multiple times before. I kept turning pages hoping the book would add something different, say something new - so far, it hasn’t. And three highly anticipated Libby holds just arrived so it’s not worth continuing this. DNF @ 41%.
If you like this kind of thing, you will probably like this thing. I don’t think there’s anything exactly wrong with it but I feel like I’ve read it multiple times before. I kept turning pages hoping the book would add something different, say something new - so far, it hasn’t. And three highly anticipated Libby holds just arrived so it’s not worth continuing this. DNF @ 41%.
October 21, 2023
The premise of A Season of Monstrous Conceptions appealed to me, but the book simply isn't substantial enough to fill the promise of its premise. It has wonderful elements: a setting in 17th Century London; a bisexual apprentice midwife wife with unclearly defined otherworldly powers; Christopher Wren and the rebuilding of London after the great fire; and those monstrous conceptions of the title—babies with too many eyes, too much hair, scales, tails, the wrong number of limbs.
At 160 pages, this book moved quickly, too quickly, with not nearly enough detail. Readers were told all those elements were there, but never allowed to sink into them sufficiently to feel as if they were experiencing them. I left it feeling as if I'd read a preliminary sketch that was never fully realized as the novel it might have been. I makes for a fun evening's reading, but doesn't have the kind of riches that call for rereading.
I received a free electronic review topic of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
At 160 pages, this book moved quickly, too quickly, with not nearly enough detail. Readers were told all those elements were there, but never allowed to sink into them sufficiently to feel as if they were experiencing them. I left it feeling as if I'd read a preliminary sketch that was never fully realized as the novel it might have been. I makes for a fun evening's reading, but doesn't have the kind of riches that call for rereading.
I received a free electronic review topic of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
May 10, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley for this copy for an honest review.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions has some of my favourite themes in books: fantasy, quirky, gore, spooky, uncanny and sapphic.
Sarah is a young widow who has become an apprentice midwife after being accused as a witch by the residents of her home town and in 17th century London babies are being born with animalistic traits - something Sarah herself knows all too well about. These babies are somehow connected to the 'Other Place' a realm beyond ours but somehow attached and vibrating in a similar space. It gives the midwives of London power and they use it to enhance themselves and their stations.
I genuinely relished this novella. It has a unique story and premise, but also reminded me of Vertigo's Sweet Tooth comic series - now a popular Netflix show.
The historical setting I felt did an excellent job of enhancing the story, questioning gender roles, sexuality, morals and having them also confront a vastly more challenging society - one where magic is not simply imagination, but terrifying and destructive to eldritch proportions.
What I liked most about the novella was the group of ladies that acted as midwives throughout London, intercepting uncanny knowledge and cataloguing it for themselves because it would inevitably be stolen by more official sources. The writing and descriptions of scenes were also some of my favourites parts, they were visceral, graphic and expressive.
However, that's were I was somewhat disappointed. I was spoiled by vivid and striking events that when it came to conjuring the 'Other Place' it was severely lacking. I get it; it's mysterious, beyond our knowledge, but 'because' is not a good enough reason for fantasy in my opinion. I wanted more from this author - I know they could have provided, easily.
That being said this novella is well worth a read. Perhaps there will be future installments to sate my desire - it's not the authors fault I was a glutton for their story.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions has some of my favourite themes in books: fantasy, quirky, gore, spooky, uncanny and sapphic.
Sarah is a young widow who has become an apprentice midwife after being accused as a witch by the residents of her home town and in 17th century London babies are being born with animalistic traits - something Sarah herself knows all too well about. These babies are somehow connected to the 'Other Place' a realm beyond ours but somehow attached and vibrating in a similar space. It gives the midwives of London power and they use it to enhance themselves and their stations.
I genuinely relished this novella. It has a unique story and premise, but also reminded me of Vertigo's Sweet Tooth comic series - now a popular Netflix show.
The historical setting I felt did an excellent job of enhancing the story, questioning gender roles, sexuality, morals and having them also confront a vastly more challenging society - one where magic is not simply imagination, but terrifying and destructive to eldritch proportions.
What I liked most about the novella was the group of ladies that acted as midwives throughout London, intercepting uncanny knowledge and cataloguing it for themselves because it would inevitably be stolen by more official sources. The writing and descriptions of scenes were also some of my favourites parts, they were visceral, graphic and expressive.
However, that's were I was somewhat disappointed. I was spoiled by vivid and striking events that when it came to conjuring the 'Other Place' it was severely lacking. I get it; it's mysterious, beyond our knowledge, but 'because' is not a good enough reason for fantasy in my opinion. I wanted more from this author - I know they could have provided, easily.
That being said this novella is well worth a read. Perhaps there will be future installments to sate my desire - it's not the authors fault I was a glutton for their story.
October 8, 2023
My thanks to Netgalley for an opportunity to read this book pre-publication for an honest review. These are my opinions.
I'll start with what I didn't like: the story ended too quickly! I would have liked more than 160 pages to scratch my feminist side. The story is set in 17th century London, and apprentice midwife Sarah works to save mothers and infants of difficult pregnancies, especially now that the frequency of babies born with 'special features' are increasing. Sarah herself was such an infant, and she's retained a connection to the "Other Side," a parallel realm where creatures with horns, tails, and fantastical features exist. This magical land, accessible to women with 'other' talents, seems to parallel the patriarchal London of witch burnings and the male-dominated Royal Society that focuses on science instead of wonder.
It's this duality that is fascinating as the story arc in the book. This idea of twin opposites is again portrayed in the beautiful cover art, with the reverse images of a midwife and a monster. I would have loved to have read more of Sir Wren's quest to tap into the powers of the Other Side, and also the secret cabal of midwives and their apprentices. One hundred sixty pages was simply not enough for me.
I'll start with what I didn't like: the story ended too quickly! I would have liked more than 160 pages to scratch my feminist side. The story is set in 17th century London, and apprentice midwife Sarah works to save mothers and infants of difficult pregnancies, especially now that the frequency of babies born with 'special features' are increasing. Sarah herself was such an infant, and she's retained a connection to the "Other Side," a parallel realm where creatures with horns, tails, and fantastical features exist. This magical land, accessible to women with 'other' talents, seems to parallel the patriarchal London of witch burnings and the male-dominated Royal Society that focuses on science instead of wonder.
It's this duality that is fascinating as the story arc in the book. This idea of twin opposites is again portrayed in the beautiful cover art, with the reverse images of a midwife and a monster. I would have loved to have read more of Sir Wren's quest to tap into the powers of the Other Side, and also the secret cabal of midwives and their apprentices. One hundred sixty pages was simply not enough for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2025
I know I keep apologising, but this ain’t my best.
What we have herein, is literally a season of monstrous conceptions in an alternate 1675 London where a quiet, potentially world altering magic lives. The source of this magic is an outer sphere known as The Other Place. We follow Sarah Davis, a widowed midwife in training, as she attempts to escape her past. Her and her Mistress, Mrs. June, are members of the occult The Worshipful Company of Midwives, who utilize the special magic of ‘unnatural’ bodies. There are a series of monstrous births occurring, births that end in death, or magical otherworldly creatures. Sarah, born an otherworldly creature, and Sir Christopher Wren attempt to re-order the disordered world. This is an historical tale of cosmic terror with a smattering of body horror. Rather has a flowing writing style that is both precise, and raw. There are brilliant, mind capturing descriptive passages that expand the senses. This is a dazzling tale that sheds bitter, corrosive tears. It is an incredible, mind-expanding story that shattered me and will stick with me for a long time. Thank you, Ms. Rather. This is an event.
What we have herein, is literally a season of monstrous conceptions in an alternate 1675 London where a quiet, potentially world altering magic lives. The source of this magic is an outer sphere known as The Other Place. We follow Sarah Davis, a widowed midwife in training, as she attempts to escape her past. Her and her Mistress, Mrs. June, are members of the occult The Worshipful Company of Midwives, who utilize the special magic of ‘unnatural’ bodies. There are a series of monstrous births occurring, births that end in death, or magical otherworldly creatures. Sarah, born an otherworldly creature, and Sir Christopher Wren attempt to re-order the disordered world. This is an historical tale of cosmic terror with a smattering of body horror. Rather has a flowing writing style that is both precise, and raw. There are brilliant, mind capturing descriptive passages that expand the senses. This is a dazzling tale that sheds bitter, corrosive tears. It is an incredible, mind-expanding story that shattered me and will stick with me for a long time. Thank you, Ms. Rather. This is an event.
October 19, 2023
The nitty-gritty: Lina Rather combines cosmic horror and a fascinating historical time period in this engaging and uplifting tale.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is an immersive story set in 1675 London with some wonderfully creepy cosmic horror elements. I loved Lina Rather’s Our Lady of Endless Worlds series, so I was curious to see what she would do with a different genre. This novella is completely different from her science fiction series, but just as beautifully written.
Sarah is a midwife’s apprentice, having been rescued from a dire domestic situation by Mrs. June, who took her under her wing and is teaching her everything about midwifery. But strange things are happening in London. Babies are being born with monstrous features, like extra eyes and appendages, gills, horns or fur. Most die as soon as they are born, but some survive and are eeking out a life among humans in secret. Sarah calls these babies “uncanny,” and in fact she has a touch of the uncanny herself. She was born with a tail, which her grandmother promptly chopped off, and now she bears not only a scar, but the ability to reach into the Other Place (where these uncanny babies come from) and pull power from it. Others like her have banned together to form a guild of sorts, although murmurings of witchcraft keep them from divulging these powers to others.
When Sarah helps a pregnant woman on the street, she is whisked into the strange life of the famous Sir Christopher Wren, an architect and scientist who senses that Sarah might be able to help him with a project. The world is out of balance, and Wren believes he can set it to rights. As Wren’s wife Faith gets closer to giving birth, Sarah must decide whether giving up the secrets of the guild will save the world, or put everyone in danger.
I was not expecting to love the historical parts of the book so much, but I was fascinated by Rather’s descriptions of the gritty, harsh lives of Londoners in 1675, especially women. I loved that midwifery is truly women’s work and is not meant to be interfered with by men. Sarah is shocked when Christopher Wren demands that he be in the room when his wife is giving birth, something that just wasn’t done in that time period. The author makes a connection between midwifery and witchcraft, which I’ve seen done before, but in this case that connection is literal. All the midwifes in the guild have a touch of the uncanny and can use the power of the Other Place in small ways.
I also liked the idea of using a real life historical figure—Sir Christopher Wren—in the story. It gives a nice heft to the time period Rather has chosen, and I found the relationship between Wren and Sarah fascinating. Wren opens up a new world for Sarah, by showing her the mysteries of science, but later he threatens everything she believes in.
As the for horror, the monstrous births are presented as anomalies, something that will go away once the worlds are aligned again, and Rather gives these creatures an otherworldly, cosmic twist by suggesting they come from another world. Sarah, having uncanny blood herself, has a connection to each creature she comes across and is almost a mother figure to them. The horror elements in this story are subtle, and I ended up mostly feeling sorry for the poor babies who will never be able to fit into society, even if they survive.
There’s also a sweet romance between Sarah and another uncanny named Margaret, who was born with horns and keeps them covered with a head wrap. Their relationship is more in the background, but it was nice that Sarah had a soft place to land with Margaret outside of her hard life as a midwife.
The final climax was very weird, but that’s cosmic horror for you. The story ends on a hopeful note, and I was happy for once to read a horror story that doesn’t end in, well, horror. I would recommend A Season of Monstrous Conceptions to readers who love historical fiction with a touch of otherworldly horror.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is an immersive story set in 1675 London with some wonderfully creepy cosmic horror elements. I loved Lina Rather’s Our Lady of Endless Worlds series, so I was curious to see what she would do with a different genre. This novella is completely different from her science fiction series, but just as beautifully written.
Sarah is a midwife’s apprentice, having been rescued from a dire domestic situation by Mrs. June, who took her under her wing and is teaching her everything about midwifery. But strange things are happening in London. Babies are being born with monstrous features, like extra eyes and appendages, gills, horns or fur. Most die as soon as they are born, but some survive and are eeking out a life among humans in secret. Sarah calls these babies “uncanny,” and in fact she has a touch of the uncanny herself. She was born with a tail, which her grandmother promptly chopped off, and now she bears not only a scar, but the ability to reach into the Other Place (where these uncanny babies come from) and pull power from it. Others like her have banned together to form a guild of sorts, although murmurings of witchcraft keep them from divulging these powers to others.
When Sarah helps a pregnant woman on the street, she is whisked into the strange life of the famous Sir Christopher Wren, an architect and scientist who senses that Sarah might be able to help him with a project. The world is out of balance, and Wren believes he can set it to rights. As Wren’s wife Faith gets closer to giving birth, Sarah must decide whether giving up the secrets of the guild will save the world, or put everyone in danger.
I was not expecting to love the historical parts of the book so much, but I was fascinated by Rather’s descriptions of the gritty, harsh lives of Londoners in 1675, especially women. I loved that midwifery is truly women’s work and is not meant to be interfered with by men. Sarah is shocked when Christopher Wren demands that he be in the room when his wife is giving birth, something that just wasn’t done in that time period. The author makes a connection between midwifery and witchcraft, which I’ve seen done before, but in this case that connection is literal. All the midwifes in the guild have a touch of the uncanny and can use the power of the Other Place in small ways.
I also liked the idea of using a real life historical figure—Sir Christopher Wren—in the story. It gives a nice heft to the time period Rather has chosen, and I found the relationship between Wren and Sarah fascinating. Wren opens up a new world for Sarah, by showing her the mysteries of science, but later he threatens everything she believes in.
As the for horror, the monstrous births are presented as anomalies, something that will go away once the worlds are aligned again, and Rather gives these creatures an otherworldly, cosmic twist by suggesting they come from another world. Sarah, having uncanny blood herself, has a connection to each creature she comes across and is almost a mother figure to them. The horror elements in this story are subtle, and I ended up mostly feeling sorry for the poor babies who will never be able to fit into society, even if they survive.
There’s also a sweet romance between Sarah and another uncanny named Margaret, who was born with horns and keeps them covered with a head wrap. Their relationship is more in the background, but it was nice that Sarah had a soft place to land with Margaret outside of her hard life as a midwife.
The final climax was very weird, but that’s cosmic horror for you. The story ends on a hopeful note, and I was happy for once to read a horror story that doesn’t end in, well, horror. I would recommend A Season of Monstrous Conceptions to readers who love historical fiction with a touch of otherworldly horror.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
October 23, 2023
In 17th-century London, where strange babies with uncanny traits come into the world, Sarah Davis seeks refuge in the bustling city. As a midwife's apprentice within the secretive Worshipful Company of Midwives, she hopes to carve an independent life for herself. With each unnatural birth, fear of the supernatural swells, casting a shadow of unease over London.
This enthralling tale follows Sarah's journey as she takes on the role of midwife, concealing her unique abilities while navigating a city gripped by fear. When Lady Wren, a woman of means, enlists Sarah to guide her through her pregnancy, Sarah becomes intertwined with the influential architect Lord Christopher Wren, who harbors a keen interest in the uncanny. However, his fascination leans dangerously close to obsession, pulling Sarah into a captivating web of magic and intrigue.
The story masterfully weaves a sense of enchantment and trepidation, creating a spellbinding narrative that explores the depths of Sarah's powers and the covetous pursuits of those who wish to harness them. As the plot unfolds, the stakes rise, threatening not only Sarah but the very fabric of the world itself. This novella's only shortcoming is its length. With its richly drawn characters and compelling premise, it leaves you craving more. The blend of history, mystery, and the supernatural makes for a riveting read.
In summary, "The Midwife of the Universe" is a mesmerizing and enchanting tale of secrets, magic, and the pursuit of power. It's a captivating read that leaves you yearning for an extended journey through this evocative and mysterious world.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ALC of this book.
This enthralling tale follows Sarah's journey as she takes on the role of midwife, concealing her unique abilities while navigating a city gripped by fear. When Lady Wren, a woman of means, enlists Sarah to guide her through her pregnancy, Sarah becomes intertwined with the influential architect Lord Christopher Wren, who harbors a keen interest in the uncanny. However, his fascination leans dangerously close to obsession, pulling Sarah into a captivating web of magic and intrigue.
The story masterfully weaves a sense of enchantment and trepidation, creating a spellbinding narrative that explores the depths of Sarah's powers and the covetous pursuits of those who wish to harness them. As the plot unfolds, the stakes rise, threatening not only Sarah but the very fabric of the world itself. This novella's only shortcoming is its length. With its richly drawn characters and compelling premise, it leaves you craving more. The blend of history, mystery, and the supernatural makes for a riveting read.
In summary, "The Midwife of the Universe" is a mesmerizing and enchanting tale of secrets, magic, and the pursuit of power. It's a captivating read that leaves you yearning for an extended journey through this evocative and mysterious world.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ALC of this book.
September 26, 2023
I’ve read the previous two sci-fi novellas from the author and really enjoyed them, so I had to give this new fantasy a try. Set in 1600s London and following an apprentice midwife who happens to have some otherworldly powers, this short book turned out to be atmospheric, spooky, a bit horrific, and very interesting on the whole. Sarah is a nice protagonist to follow - one with a past she is escaping, desires she is scared to act upon lest she lose her reputation and vocation, someone who just wants to be seen as a whole person for who she is. While the book is very short, I liked her character arc and where she ended up. The plot itself isn’t too complex and was pretty predictable too I guess, but it still left me satisfied. I don’t think this will be a series, so I can only hope for a new installment in the author’s Sisters of the Vast Black series.
October 24, 2023
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions
by Lina Rather
Novella Horror Occult
NetGalley ARC
Publication Date: October 31, 2023
Tor Publishing
Ages:16+
Babies are being born and they are not normal. Some have eyes to see in the dark, or more than one set, webbed fingers and toes, horns, and other abnormalities. Sarah Davis was born with a difference, but as an infant, her grandmother cut it away, but her differentness didn't leave her and when she needed to start her life anew she became a midwife's apprentice, where that specialness within her is more of a gift when it comes to delivering newborns.
But what started as a few over past years, have turned into multiple children being born different every day and with more drastic abnormalities. Christopher Wren claims he knows how to fix it; with Sara's help.
While this story started out interesting, it quickly fizzled out and I had to force myself to read. There was little action and it and the interesting babies were all revealed in the first twenty pages, and those following hundred and some pages left seemed to ramble on to the point where I felt they were doubling with every page I read and it would never let me finish.
Thankfully I found the end of the story and it was a disappointment. Maybe if the author wrote an additional hundred pages so they could have spent more time with descriptions and mystery it wouldn't have felt like a chore to read.
1 Star
by Lina Rather
Novella Horror Occult
NetGalley ARC
Publication Date: October 31, 2023
Tor Publishing
Ages:16+
Babies are being born and they are not normal. Some have eyes to see in the dark, or more than one set, webbed fingers and toes, horns, and other abnormalities. Sarah Davis was born with a difference, but as an infant, her grandmother cut it away, but her differentness didn't leave her and when she needed to start her life anew she became a midwife's apprentice, where that specialness within her is more of a gift when it comes to delivering newborns.
But what started as a few over past years, have turned into multiple children being born different every day and with more drastic abnormalities. Christopher Wren claims he knows how to fix it; with Sara's help.
While this story started out interesting, it quickly fizzled out and I had to force myself to read. There was little action and it and the interesting babies were all revealed in the first twenty pages, and those following hundred and some pages left seemed to ramble on to the point where I felt they were doubling with every page I read and it would never let me finish.
Thankfully I found the end of the story and it was a disappointment. Maybe if the author wrote an additional hundred pages so they could have spent more time with descriptions and mystery it wouldn't have felt like a chore to read.
1 Star
December 16, 2023
Sarah has always known she is different. Her parents never missed an opportunity to remind her. They never faltered in telling her how she was one of the children being born in England who were monstrous, with claws, too many eyes, or mouths, or with fur, tales, or scales, or any number of “differences.” Sarah’s anomaly was easily removed shortly after she was born, so she has been able to “pass” for someone “normal”. But Sarah has never felt able, never been allowed, to fit in.
After the sudden and unexpected death of her husband, Sarah moved to London. She hoped that, away from those who had known her all her life and the rumors about her husband’s death, she would be able to fit into the metropolis and create a quiet life where she could simply be. She began to work as a mid-wife’s apprentice with Mrs. June and is hopeful, someday, she will be able to establish herself as a mid-wife and live a quiet, comfortable life. Until then, she works diligently under Mrs. June’s watchful eye as they deliver an increasing number of babies that truly were not meant for this world. But what is causing these births? Why are their numbers increasing? Is there anything Sarah, as an apprentice mid-wife, can do about them?
In A Season of Monstrous Conceptions, Lina Rather paints a dark, but beautiful, portrait of 17th century London where what we come to know as science is being discovered, and the city is rebuilding after the Great Fire. Rather illustrates the different strata, whether social, economic, or of other sorts, and how difficult, if not impossible, it was to breach those distinctions. She also depicts how those in the lower rungs of society could, and would, create brief moments of joy and celebration (even if they had to hide them from the watchful eyes of the upper classes).
In the novella, childbirth, which was always a hazardous proposition at this point in history, has the additional risk that the child will be “one of those” who will either not survive the birthing process or, worse, will force the parents to decide the child’s fate. Sarah, the novella’s protagonist, was born as one of the strange babies, but due to the quick thinking of her family, she has always been able to pass as normal. As a result, Sarah has lived her whole life attempting to blend in, afraid of unwanted attention, always fearful of discovery. This is clearly a metaphor for many reasons people have been made to feel like an “other” in their culture and are forced to hide, pass, or a combination of the two.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is also a meditation on how limited the options were, and continue to be, for women to manage their own existence. As a young, unwanted woman, Sarah has had almost no control over her life. She was told by her family she needed to marry, but was given no choice regarding her husband. Now a young widow, Sarah still has virtually no choices after the death of her husband. She could pursue another marriage, a choice fraught with peril given who she is. Her only other options are to seek one of the few occupations allowed in London society or to prostitute herself, literally, to survive. Even after choosing to pursue a profession, she must be concerned with class issues, societal expectations regarding acceptable behavior, along with working as an apprentice under a grueling task master who holds her future in her hands and can dash it on a whim if she chooses.
While A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is set nearly four centuries ago, it reminds us all of issues people are dealing with today.
Read an interview with the author here.
Reviewed by Daryl M., Librarian, West Valley Regional Branch Library
After the sudden and unexpected death of her husband, Sarah moved to London. She hoped that, away from those who had known her all her life and the rumors about her husband’s death, she would be able to fit into the metropolis and create a quiet life where she could simply be. She began to work as a mid-wife’s apprentice with Mrs. June and is hopeful, someday, she will be able to establish herself as a mid-wife and live a quiet, comfortable life. Until then, she works diligently under Mrs. June’s watchful eye as they deliver an increasing number of babies that truly were not meant for this world. But what is causing these births? Why are their numbers increasing? Is there anything Sarah, as an apprentice mid-wife, can do about them?
In A Season of Monstrous Conceptions, Lina Rather paints a dark, but beautiful, portrait of 17th century London where what we come to know as science is being discovered, and the city is rebuilding after the Great Fire. Rather illustrates the different strata, whether social, economic, or of other sorts, and how difficult, if not impossible, it was to breach those distinctions. She also depicts how those in the lower rungs of society could, and would, create brief moments of joy and celebration (even if they had to hide them from the watchful eyes of the upper classes).
In the novella, childbirth, which was always a hazardous proposition at this point in history, has the additional risk that the child will be “one of those” who will either not survive the birthing process or, worse, will force the parents to decide the child’s fate. Sarah, the novella’s protagonist, was born as one of the strange babies, but due to the quick thinking of her family, she has always been able to pass as normal. As a result, Sarah has lived her whole life attempting to blend in, afraid of unwanted attention, always fearful of discovery. This is clearly a metaphor for many reasons people have been made to feel like an “other” in their culture and are forced to hide, pass, or a combination of the two.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is also a meditation on how limited the options were, and continue to be, for women to manage their own existence. As a young, unwanted woman, Sarah has had almost no control over her life. She was told by her family she needed to marry, but was given no choice regarding her husband. Now a young widow, Sarah still has virtually no choices after the death of her husband. She could pursue another marriage, a choice fraught with peril given who she is. Her only other options are to seek one of the few occupations allowed in London society or to prostitute herself, literally, to survive. Even after choosing to pursue a profession, she must be concerned with class issues, societal expectations regarding acceptable behavior, along with working as an apprentice under a grueling task master who holds her future in her hands and can dash it on a whim if she chooses.
While A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is set nearly four centuries ago, it reminds us all of issues people are dealing with today.
Read an interview with the author here.
Reviewed by Daryl M., Librarian, West Valley Regional Branch Library
April 12, 2024
I really liked this novella. In 17th century London, there's an increasing number of children born strange and uncanny, often to the point they are unable to survive. It's up to apprentice midwife Sarah, who is more than a little strange and uncanny herself to help the mothers and babies and figure out what's going on. It's a pretty unique concept, written in a very atmospheric way, and while Rather doesn't shy away from darker sides of being poor and a woman in that era, there is still plenty of hope for the protagonist and her girlfriend. The pacing, the most critical aspect of novellas for me, is also perfectly fine.
In short, if the concept sounds interesting to you, it's definitely a book I'd recommend.
Enjoyment: 4/5
Execution: 4/5
More reviews on my blog, To Other Worlds.
In short, if the concept sounds interesting to you, it's definitely a book I'd recommend.
Enjoyment: 4/5
Execution: 4/5
More reviews on my blog, To Other Worlds.
November 6, 2023
It's some years after Cromwell's death and the fire that ravaged London. Sarah Davis is working in London as an apprentice to a midwife, Mrs. June. Though grateful for the work, Sarah also resents the older woman's treatment of her and her inability to simply leave Mrs. June’s side. Sarah ran from her hometown because of increasingly nasty rumours about her strangeness (supernatural leanings) and a possible murder charge. Consequently, Sarah has nowhere else to go.
There is fear in London that the devil is running around, as there are monstrous babies being born throughout the city. Mrs. June and Sarah are no strangers to these babies, having ushered into the world several children afflicted with odd features: extra eyes, fish scales, and other oddities. Sarah can sense these aspects in a fetus, thanks to her own uncanniness.
When through a chance encounter with Lady Wren, Sarah and Mrs. June are hired as midwives for Lady and Sir Christopher Wren’s second child. It’s a great opportunity, for with references from Lady Wren, Sarah might be able to establish her own midwifery practice.
Cristopher Wren is fascinated by the many strange babies, and feels Sarah can help him with his magical researches (he winkles out the truth of her own ability through persistence). He also wants to stop the occurrences of the uncanny appearing in London.
Though flattered, Sarah is growing increasingly frustrated with people using her for their own ends, whether Wren, or Mrs. June and the woman’s desire for greater access to magic.
It soon becomes apparent that London is in great danger (Wren believes that the babies are a likely symptom of magic leaking into our world from another realm), and Sarah has to decide what she wants to do about it.
Lina Rather has created a wonderful feminist historical fantasy, with a sharp-tongued main character trying to live life on her terms. Her London is rife with poverty, fear of the different and the uncanny,. There are men making small steps toward scientific concepts, and for Sarah, the possibility of a new life and possible romance. Rather shows us a woman angry with upper class snobbishness and societal restrictions for the lower classes and women, while also wanting more out of life and having to hide essential parts of herself. Sarah shines throughout.
The prose conjures London’s crooked streets, the darkness and pain of long hours of labour, and incredible moments when a magical world collides with London.
I loved this novella-length story, and at the same time wanted so much more in this setting with Sarah. I would definitely read about her if Sarah returned.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Tor Publishing Group for this ARC in exchange for my review.
There is fear in London that the devil is running around, as there are monstrous babies being born throughout the city. Mrs. June and Sarah are no strangers to these babies, having ushered into the world several children afflicted with odd features: extra eyes, fish scales, and other oddities. Sarah can sense these aspects in a fetus, thanks to her own uncanniness.
When through a chance encounter with Lady Wren, Sarah and Mrs. June are hired as midwives for Lady and Sir Christopher Wren’s second child. It’s a great opportunity, for with references from Lady Wren, Sarah might be able to establish her own midwifery practice.
Cristopher Wren is fascinated by the many strange babies, and feels Sarah can help him with his magical researches (he winkles out the truth of her own ability through persistence). He also wants to stop the occurrences of the uncanny appearing in London.
Though flattered, Sarah is growing increasingly frustrated with people using her for their own ends, whether Wren, or Mrs. June and the woman’s desire for greater access to magic.
It soon becomes apparent that London is in great danger (Wren believes that the babies are a likely symptom of magic leaking into our world from another realm), and Sarah has to decide what she wants to do about it.
Lina Rather has created a wonderful feminist historical fantasy, with a sharp-tongued main character trying to live life on her terms. Her London is rife with poverty, fear of the different and the uncanny,. There are men making small steps toward scientific concepts, and for Sarah, the possibility of a new life and possible romance. Rather shows us a woman angry with upper class snobbishness and societal restrictions for the lower classes and women, while also wanting more out of life and having to hide essential parts of herself. Sarah shines throughout.
The prose conjures London’s crooked streets, the darkness and pain of long hours of labour, and incredible moments when a magical world collides with London.
I loved this novella-length story, and at the same time wanted so much more in this setting with Sarah. I would definitely read about her if Sarah returned.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Tor Publishing Group for this ARC in exchange for my review.
May 1, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and Tor Publishing Group for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Strange babies, a witchery midwife guild, accidental murder and obsessions with the otherworldly? Count me in! A Season of Monstrous Conceptions caught my attention the minute I read the title.
The novella is set in 17th-century London where children are being born with «monstrous» anomalies. Our main character and midwife-in-training Sarah has a touch of this uncanniness herself and feels a deeper connection to these children and to the «Other World». We follow her as she navigates this historical London as a widow and queer woman, and is faced with a difficult choice that might destroy the world. The story is full of magic, monstrosities, and contains a wide variety of female characters as well as a sapphic romance subplot.
The story is atmospheric and I could easily envision this historical London while reading. I found the first half of the novella very interesting as we were familiarized with this particular London and our MC Sarah. I found Sarah to be well-developed and I enjoyed her pov. Around the 60% mark I was slightly confused and felt like a huge chunk of the story had been lost to me, and then towards the end the confusion lessened. I think this was due to the fact that this is a novella and thus had limited space for certain ideas to develop nicely. Certain aspects of the worldbuilding, and descriptions of magic and the «Other World» felt sadly glanced over. I would actually have liked this to be slightly longer, perhaps even a full-length novel.
The novella also deals with topics such as grief and obsession, a combination I definitely enjoy. I would have liked to see more of the relationship between Sarah and Mr. Wren as I think this was one of the most interesting dynamics in the story. The sapphic romance subplot felt right at home and contributed to some balance in this otherwise slightly horrifying world.
Overall, A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is an intriguing, uncanny, and compelling novella that centers strange (queer) women, female oppression and power, obsession, monstrosity, queerness, grief, and magic, all in an atmospheric, historical London. One of the novellas main flaws is its length, which should have been considerably longer (a novel), and that’s saying something.
3,75
Strange babies, a witchery midwife guild, accidental murder and obsessions with the otherworldly? Count me in! A Season of Monstrous Conceptions caught my attention the minute I read the title.
The novella is set in 17th-century London where children are being born with «monstrous» anomalies. Our main character and midwife-in-training Sarah has a touch of this uncanniness herself and feels a deeper connection to these children and to the «Other World». We follow her as she navigates this historical London as a widow and queer woman, and is faced with a difficult choice that might destroy the world. The story is full of magic, monstrosities, and contains a wide variety of female characters as well as a sapphic romance subplot.
The story is atmospheric and I could easily envision this historical London while reading. I found the first half of the novella very interesting as we were familiarized with this particular London and our MC Sarah. I found Sarah to be well-developed and I enjoyed her pov. Around the 60% mark I was slightly confused and felt like a huge chunk of the story had been lost to me, and then towards the end the confusion lessened. I think this was due to the fact that this is a novella and thus had limited space for certain ideas to develop nicely. Certain aspects of the worldbuilding, and descriptions of magic and the «Other World» felt sadly glanced over. I would actually have liked this to be slightly longer, perhaps even a full-length novel.
The novella also deals with topics such as grief and obsession, a combination I definitely enjoy. I would have liked to see more of the relationship between Sarah and Mr. Wren as I think this was one of the most interesting dynamics in the story. The sapphic romance subplot felt right at home and contributed to some balance in this otherwise slightly horrifying world.
Overall, A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is an intriguing, uncanny, and compelling novella that centers strange (queer) women, female oppression and power, obsession, monstrosity, queerness, grief, and magic, all in an atmospheric, historical London. One of the novellas main flaws is its length, which should have been considerably longer (a novel), and that’s saying something.
3,75
October 13, 2023
3.5 / 5
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is a short, queer, cosmic horror slash historical fiction novella that takes place in 17th century London. We follow Sarah, a midwife apprentice with a preternatural sixth sense of sorts. All around London, babies are being born with increasingly concerning abnormalities; traits like razor sharp teeth, fur, extra eyes, and horns. Sarah finds herself unraveling what is causing these defects, how it connects to her own past, and the lengths the people around her will go to obtain these same answers.
I personally don't think this was truly a horror - it's got sort of a gothic vibe to it, and there are absolutely some heavy/grotesque things going on, but it felt more like a grim historical low fantasy. I thought the queer elements were well done and added an element to the story that I found interesting. I didn't feel particularly invested in any of the characters, most likely due to the story's length, but overall I think the page count was adequate. I'd recommend this for anyone looking for a macabre tale with queer, feminist, & body horror elements!
Thank you to Tor, NetGalley, and Tina Rather for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is a short, queer, cosmic horror slash historical fiction novella that takes place in 17th century London. We follow Sarah, a midwife apprentice with a preternatural sixth sense of sorts. All around London, babies are being born with increasingly concerning abnormalities; traits like razor sharp teeth, fur, extra eyes, and horns. Sarah finds herself unraveling what is causing these defects, how it connects to her own past, and the lengths the people around her will go to obtain these same answers.
I personally don't think this was truly a horror - it's got sort of a gothic vibe to it, and there are absolutely some heavy/grotesque things going on, but it felt more like a grim historical low fantasy. I thought the queer elements were well done and added an element to the story that I found interesting. I didn't feel particularly invested in any of the characters, most likely due to the story's length, but overall I think the page count was adequate. I'd recommend this for anyone looking for a macabre tale with queer, feminist, & body horror elements!
Thank you to Tor, NetGalley, and Tina Rather for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2023
Glorious! I adored SISTERS OF THE VAST BLACK so expected good of A SEASON OF MONSTROUS CONCEPTIONS (Release October 31) and was gratifyingly rewarded--superbly so. This historically-founded Sapphic Paranormal tale is super out-of-this-world (figuratively AND literally). The characters are perfectly drawn; the plot is irresistible; and always, always, running just below the surface is the constant high-strung tension and threat of danger, both as women in the Medieval era, and especially as being women of magical power. Constantly is the perception that at any moment, the hue and cry of "Witch!" "Monster!" "Hellspawn!" could arise, and mob violence and ultimately execution, would follow. Very tense and suspenseful, inducing of Paranoia, but so worthwhile a read!!
November 30, 2024
In 17th century London, Sarah Davis works as a midwife's apprentice during a time where women are giving birth to monstrous infants and there are whispers of the Devil walking the streets. Determined to carve out her own path she is drawn into a perilous game of magic. With the fate of humanity hanging in the balance, Sarah must confront a difficult choice: will she succumb to her own shadowy desires or rise to protect the world that has often confined her?
This novella had such an interesting premise, yet I think it needed to be a much longer work. The length left me longing for more time to develop the characters, magic system, and the world itself. I can see the potential in this story and it was still engaging for me to read. Yet, I wanted more from all aspects of the story. Perhaps in the future Lina Rather will return to this world as I would be eager to read more about it, but enter this with caution as it may leave you longing!
Thank you to the publisher, Tordotcom, for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions shared in this review are my own!
This novella had such an interesting premise, yet I think it needed to be a much longer work. The length left me longing for more time to develop the characters, magic system, and the world itself. I can see the potential in this story and it was still engaging for me to read. Yet, I wanted more from all aspects of the story. Perhaps in the future Lina Rather will return to this world as I would be eager to read more about it, but enter this with caution as it may leave you longing!
Thank you to the publisher, Tordotcom, for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions shared in this review are my own!
November 10, 2023
In 17th century London, babies are being born with abnormal-and sometimes animalistic traits. A midwife apprentice named Sarah Davis aides her mistress Mrs. June in delivering these children, while also contending with the “uncanny” part of her own nature that she has hidden.
Her life changes following a chance encounter with the wealthy and pregnant Lady Faith Wren and Sarah is soon drawn further into the world of magic at the behest of Faith’s husband Lord Christopher Wren. As Faith’s pregnancy draws to an end and the inexplicable magic of the “Other Place” continues to bleed into the regular world, Sarah is faced with an incredible choice:
Should she save the world that has constantly used her and discarded her or should she let it all fall to ruin?
A Season Of Monstrous Conceptions is a lyrical and evocative novella. I was captivated by the story and felt as though it almost ended too soon. The setting was both intriguing and frustrating, as were the restrictions in the roles and the treatment of women within that time period.
Sarah is a relatable main character and a wonderful mix of contradictions: feeling difficulty in showing love to others, yet kind to and yearning for another uncanny woman named Margaret and compassionate towards the women and children she tends to.
Her rage at having a life that isn’t truly her own-initially due to the hatred of her mother, then due to the presence of her late husband and finally due to the whims of midwife Mrs. June-is balanced with her desire for affection and the approval of others.
It is only natural to feel as though we do not always belong in the world and while our “uncanniness” may not be as overtly expressed as some of the children described in A Season of Monstrous Conceptions,” the feeling of not belonging, of our wants and desires being viewed as “wrong,” and the bitter frustration following rejection certainly makes Sarah’s choices quite understandable.
When presented with incredible power to change the world, who wouldn’t want to reach out and claim it?
I do wish that we had received more details pertaining to the “Other Place,” though what was presented was very intriguing.
The narration for A Season Of Monstrous Conceptions is also excellent. Amy Scanlon does an amazing job of infusing the novella with a captivating energy and as someone who has difficulty maintaining attention while listening to audiobooks, I never found myself distracted.
Thank you to Netgalley, Tor Publishing Group and Lina Rather for providing me this audiobook in exchange for my honest opinion.
Her life changes following a chance encounter with the wealthy and pregnant Lady Faith Wren and Sarah is soon drawn further into the world of magic at the behest of Faith’s husband Lord Christopher Wren. As Faith’s pregnancy draws to an end and the inexplicable magic of the “Other Place” continues to bleed into the regular world, Sarah is faced with an incredible choice:
Should she save the world that has constantly used her and discarded her or should she let it all fall to ruin?
A Season Of Monstrous Conceptions is a lyrical and evocative novella. I was captivated by the story and felt as though it almost ended too soon. The setting was both intriguing and frustrating, as were the restrictions in the roles and the treatment of women within that time period.
Sarah is a relatable main character and a wonderful mix of contradictions: feeling difficulty in showing love to others, yet kind to and yearning for another uncanny woman named Margaret and compassionate towards the women and children she tends to.
Her rage at having a life that isn’t truly her own-initially due to the hatred of her mother, then due to the presence of her late husband and finally due to the whims of midwife Mrs. June-is balanced with her desire for affection and the approval of others.
It is only natural to feel as though we do not always belong in the world and while our “uncanniness” may not be as overtly expressed as some of the children described in A Season of Monstrous Conceptions,” the feeling of not belonging, of our wants and desires being viewed as “wrong,” and the bitter frustration following rejection certainly makes Sarah’s choices quite understandable.
When presented with incredible power to change the world, who wouldn’t want to reach out and claim it?
I do wish that we had received more details pertaining to the “Other Place,” though what was presented was very intriguing.
The narration for A Season Of Monstrous Conceptions is also excellent. Amy Scanlon does an amazing job of infusing the novella with a captivating energy and as someone who has difficulty maintaining attention while listening to audiobooks, I never found myself distracted.
Thank you to Netgalley, Tor Publishing Group and Lina Rather for providing me this audiobook in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 25, 2025
Feminist horror with a cosmic bend to it. Blood, birth, sacrifice, cycles of violence, monsters, traditions, and the balance of power are called into question--this is a riveting read. If you're a fan of Bloodborne, you will likely love this, as there is a large overlap in themes and tone.
The author presents a focused narrative with just enough description to give you the occassional goosebumps. This is one of those books where paying attention to every line will pay off later. As a reader, you will be rewarded for taking your time with this, though the pacing will urge you to finish it as quickly as possible. You know very quickly what the climax will be, and have to learn along with the main character, Sarah, what the stakes are and what the right answer is.
Not particularly frightening in terms of a horror novel, but tense and delicious.
Also, if you're not already familiar with it, I'd possibly suggest looking up an image of the "Momument to the Great Fire of London" to get an idea of the scale of it prior to picking this up, just for a little extra context in certain scenes.
The author presents a focused narrative with just enough description to give you the occassional goosebumps. This is one of those books where paying attention to every line will pay off later. As a reader, you will be rewarded for taking your time with this, though the pacing will urge you to finish it as quickly as possible. You know very quickly what the climax will be, and have to learn along with the main character, Sarah, what the stakes are and what the right answer is.
Not particularly frightening in terms of a horror novel, but tense and delicious.
Also, if you're not already familiar with it, I'd possibly suggest looking up an image of the "Momument to the Great Fire of London" to get an idea of the scale of it prior to picking this up, just for a little extra context in certain scenes.
October 5, 2023
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions by Lina Rather is set in 17th century London. There have always been ... abnormal ... births, no doubt due to witches and demons and the like, but they've always been rare. For unclear reasons, they're now happening quite frequently in London. The protagonist of this novella is an apprentice midwife, who can sometimes sense when a baby is going to be born less than (or more than) human. An interesting and compelling read; I'd like to read more of Rather's work in the future.
January 31, 2024
I really enjoyed this queer horror-tinged novella about identity. I'm always amazed when writers can fit world-building and character depth in such short pages. The historical setting served the story well in highlighting the prejudices the main character faces as both a queer woman and a person born as a "monster". This is the type of book I could absolutely imagine myself returning to more than a few times, and I can see myself picking it up if I ever find it on a bookstore shelf.
Thank you Netgalley for providing a digital ARC.
Thank you Netgalley for providing a digital ARC.
November 19, 2024
A dark convergence of science and the occult in old London. It is rather short; I would have liked it to be a longer story, but this was fine. Filled with creeps and empathy and sadness.
Bechdel: Pass
Duvernay: Fail
Vito: Pass
PM: Pass
Bechdel: Pass
Duvernay: Fail
Vito: Pass
PM: Pass
March 18, 2024
this was absolutely fantastic and the magical realism was so believable and beautifully written. I just wish it was longer!!
February 15, 2025
Great historical atmosphere, fascinatingly integrated cosmology, a scintillating witchfire of queer anger and class hurt, although somewhat prosaic in execution. A bit too tidy and falling too short. I did quite enjoy it, but, then again, I am always happy to drown in the balsamic vinegar of historical fiction with elements of dark fantasy.
April 27, 2023
Thank you to Lina Rather, Tor Publishing Group, and NetGalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review-- all opinions are my own.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions interested me as soon as I saw the cover and read the blurb. I think the cover helps build anticipation for the story because of how striking and eye-catching it is. This novella is set in the 1600s and follows Sarah, an apprentice midwife, through a time in London where children are being born with mysterious and other-worldly attributes and features. The author does a really good job at setting the scene for readers and makes you feel as if you are walking the streets of London with the main character rather than feeling like someone watching events play out from afar. The descriptions and details of events and scenery are written very well. I also really like and appreciate the romance plot line. One thing that did fall a little flat for me was the somewhat lack of explanation/detail of the magic system and 'The Other World'. At times I felt a little confused about what characters were talking about in regards to it and how their actions/ other characters' actions related to it. It left me feeling like it was a little rushed in some places. Readers who are interested or looking for a novella that has a good mix of monsters, female lead characters, and fantasy elements should definitely give A Season of Monstrous Conceptions a try.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions interested me as soon as I saw the cover and read the blurb. I think the cover helps build anticipation for the story because of how striking and eye-catching it is. This novella is set in the 1600s and follows Sarah, an apprentice midwife, through a time in London where children are being born with mysterious and other-worldly attributes and features. The author does a really good job at setting the scene for readers and makes you feel as if you are walking the streets of London with the main character rather than feeling like someone watching events play out from afar. The descriptions and details of events and scenery are written very well. I also really like and appreciate the romance plot line. One thing that did fall a little flat for me was the somewhat lack of explanation/detail of the magic system and 'The Other World'. At times I felt a little confused about what characters were talking about in regards to it and how their actions/ other characters' actions related to it. It left me feeling like it was a little rushed in some places. Readers who are interested or looking for a novella that has a good mix of monsters, female lead characters, and fantasy elements should definitely give A Season of Monstrous Conceptions a try.
February 28, 2024
How could I not want to read
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions
with that frightening premise?
Yet, with so many novels with great potential storylines, this one fails to deliver mainly because it's so short.
I'm not saying I want to read a 500-page opus, but a little background on the following couldn't hurt:
1. Sarah Davis. Her family, her background? Why is she special?
2. Exposition on the Illegal Worshipful Company of Midwives
3. Background on the thinning boundary between our world and the next. Is it due to a spell?
4. Buildup of Christopher Wren's desire and maniacal ambition to breach the boundary
5. The relationship between the midwives, how they draw power and strength from each other and protect the ones they care for
There was so much to develop and delve upon, the world building of the boundary and the midwives union ripe with dark potential and horror, but it was all wasted in a rushed, harried narrative.
In fact, like so many novels, more time and words was devoted to a romance and Sarah's naivete in believing Wren treated her like an equal.
You're think with her background and upbringing, she'd have more street smarts.
The story was rich was possibilities but a lackluster main character, lack of development story and character-wise, and typical tropes made this a disappointing read.
Yet, with so many novels with great potential storylines, this one fails to deliver mainly because it's so short.
I'm not saying I want to read a 500-page opus, but a little background on the following couldn't hurt:
1. Sarah Davis. Her family, her background? Why is she special?
2. Exposition on the Illegal Worshipful Company of Midwives
3. Background on the thinning boundary between our world and the next. Is it due to a spell?
4. Buildup of Christopher Wren's desire and maniacal ambition to breach the boundary
5. The relationship between the midwives, how they draw power and strength from each other and protect the ones they care for
There was so much to develop and delve upon, the world building of the boundary and the midwives union ripe with dark potential and horror, but it was all wasted in a rushed, harried narrative.
In fact, like so many novels, more time and words was devoted to a romance and Sarah's naivete in believing Wren treated her like an equal.
You're think with her background and upbringing, she'd have more street smarts.
The story was rich was possibilities but a lackluster main character, lack of development story and character-wise, and typical tropes made this a disappointing read.
April 30, 2023
This book has a little bit of everything - witches, parallel universes, accidental murder, midwifery, the real historical polymath Sir Christopher Wren. I absolutely loved this novella's historical setting, even in the places where it was adjusted to contain the fantasy elements and monstrous people of this world. The main character, Sarah, was incredibly compelling. The multiple ways in which she feels removed from society - both as an otherworldly creature and bisexual icon - made her internal conflict interesting to read about.
I think the complexities of this story would have worked better in a full-length novel, rather than a novella. There is a part in the middle where the mechanisms of the universe are skimmed over, which made their reasoning hard to follow in parts. Sarah has a complicated history with both Michael and Margaret, which we are told rather than shown in the limited space, even though there definitely could be more to explore there.
Overall, it's delivering in its chosen genre of sapphic scientific oddity-core, but could have used further elaboration.
Thank you Tor and NetGalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for my honest review!
I think the complexities of this story would have worked better in a full-length novel, rather than a novella. There is a part in the middle where the mechanisms of the universe are skimmed over, which made their reasoning hard to follow in parts. Sarah has a complicated history with both Michael and Margaret, which we are told rather than shown in the limited space, even though there definitely could be more to explore there.
Overall, it's delivering in its chosen genre of sapphic scientific oddity-core, but could have used further elaboration.
Thank you Tor and NetGalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for my honest review!
November 1, 2023
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
An immersive historical fantasy novella, A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is my first time reading Lina Rather’s work – and it won’t be the last.
Recently arrived from the countryside, Mrs. Davis is working as a midwife’s apprentice. The conditions are poor, but as a working class woman widowed in suspicious circumstances, Sarah knows this is her last shot at freedom. Midwifery comes easily to Sarah, which may be explained by her extrasensory abilities.
Born with a rabbit’s tail, Sarah has something of the witch in her, an ability to reach for power from the Other Place. This power makes her an excellent apprentice and an object of jealousy, for there are other uncanny midwives practicing in London, but none with Sarah’s natural affinity for power.
There have always been mysteries in the birthing room, but the last several months have seen a rise in strange births. Uncanny babies are being born by the dozen, each with monstrous features like gills, fur, razor-sharp teeth, and more. Many of these babies are killed before they can eke out a life, but those that survive are like Sarah. They can draw on the power of the Other Place…and they can feel that something great and terrible is coming.
Drawn into the world of Christopher Wren, an esteemed man of science whose wife will soon give birth, Sarah isn’t sure who to trust. The other midwives belittle her and use her in turn, while Wren praises her intelligence and power. When Sarah senses that his unborn child will itself be uncanny, she’s torn. Is he an ally in her quest to help these strange children, or will the age-old wisdom that men do not belong in midwifery prove true?
With a keen eye for detail, Rather crafts an immersive story of a rather unordinary working class life in 17th century London, England. From the stink of an overcrowded city to the joyful abandon of illicit nightlife, to the fascinating and terrifying power of the Other Place, it all comes alive in Rather’s hands. Her depiction of queerness at the time is also praise-worthy: the intimacy and security that lovers find in one another is balanced with the very real threat of discovery. Sarah’s blossoming affection for Margaret, another uncanny woman, is bittersweet and realistic.
The parts of this novella that I enjoyed the most focus on the actual practice of midwifery (with a hint of magic). At the time, midwifery was an important craft that fell under the sole purview of women. The tinctures, salves, and teas used in 17th century pre- and post-natal care are fascinating! As much as I enjoy reading about fine ladies, I would love to see more working class protagonists in historical fantasy.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is beautifully written and skillfully executed, evocative and intriguingly creepy. It’s a great selection for autumn night. Highly recommended.
An immersive historical fantasy novella, A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is my first time reading Lina Rather’s work – and it won’t be the last.
Recently arrived from the countryside, Mrs. Davis is working as a midwife’s apprentice. The conditions are poor, but as a working class woman widowed in suspicious circumstances, Sarah knows this is her last shot at freedom. Midwifery comes easily to Sarah, which may be explained by her extrasensory abilities.
Born with a rabbit’s tail, Sarah has something of the witch in her, an ability to reach for power from the Other Place. This power makes her an excellent apprentice and an object of jealousy, for there are other uncanny midwives practicing in London, but none with Sarah’s natural affinity for power.
There have always been mysteries in the birthing room, but the last several months have seen a rise in strange births. Uncanny babies are being born by the dozen, each with monstrous features like gills, fur, razor-sharp teeth, and more. Many of these babies are killed before they can eke out a life, but those that survive are like Sarah. They can draw on the power of the Other Place…and they can feel that something great and terrible is coming.
Drawn into the world of Christopher Wren, an esteemed man of science whose wife will soon give birth, Sarah isn’t sure who to trust. The other midwives belittle her and use her in turn, while Wren praises her intelligence and power. When Sarah senses that his unborn child will itself be uncanny, she’s torn. Is he an ally in her quest to help these strange children, or will the age-old wisdom that men do not belong in midwifery prove true?
With a keen eye for detail, Rather crafts an immersive story of a rather unordinary working class life in 17th century London, England. From the stink of an overcrowded city to the joyful abandon of illicit nightlife, to the fascinating and terrifying power of the Other Place, it all comes alive in Rather’s hands. Her depiction of queerness at the time is also praise-worthy: the intimacy and security that lovers find in one another is balanced with the very real threat of discovery. Sarah’s blossoming affection for Margaret, another uncanny woman, is bittersweet and realistic.
The parts of this novella that I enjoyed the most focus on the actual practice of midwifery (with a hint of magic). At the time, midwifery was an important craft that fell under the sole purview of women. The tinctures, salves, and teas used in 17th century pre- and post-natal care are fascinating! As much as I enjoy reading about fine ladies, I would love to see more working class protagonists in historical fantasy.
A Season of Monstrous Conceptions is beautifully written and skillfully executed, evocative and intriguingly creepy. It’s a great selection for autumn night. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 347 reviews