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The Worlds Behind #3
Wet Behind the Ears
Athelas never wanted housemates. Now he has three: the gumiho for whom he provided an alibi, the tea-wielding housekeeper who poisoned him, and the young human who might pose the greatest danger of all.
All of Athelas’ training tells him to kill small, soft things before something else does—or worse, before he grows fond of them and then something kills them. He should at least know better than to worry about the revenge-bent gumiho who is drawing the attention of every high-ranking Behindkind in Seoul Between.
Hot on the tails of the gumiho who slaughtered her family, YeoWoo instead stumbles over the battered and broken body of a merman who knows just a little bit too much about her quarry. It should be simple to keep Marazul both alive and useful, but although YeoWoo is successful in the former, the latter is a different tail—especially when the merman knows exactly how dangerous it is to talk.
YeoWoo has always taken what she wanted in blood and force. Athelas has always gained what he needed by deception and manipulation. With their usual methods failing at every turn and the investigation swiftly becoming deadly for the entire house, it’s time to make a few changes.
And Athelas has begun to fear that if he does change, his life will forever spin out of his control...
All of Athelas’ training tells him to kill small, soft things before something else does—or worse, before he grows fond of them and then something kills them. He should at least know better than to worry about the revenge-bent gumiho who is drawing the attention of every high-ranking Behindkind in Seoul Between.
Hot on the tails of the gumiho who slaughtered her family, YeoWoo instead stumbles over the battered and broken body of a merman who knows just a little bit too much about her quarry. It should be simple to keep Marazul both alive and useful, but although YeoWoo is successful in the former, the latter is a different tail—especially when the merman knows exactly how dangerous it is to talk.
YeoWoo has always taken what she wanted in blood and force. Athelas has always gained what he needed by deception and manipulation. With their usual methods failing at every turn and the investigation swiftly becoming deadly for the entire house, it’s time to make a few changes.
And Athelas has begun to fear that if he does change, his life will forever spin out of his control...
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 13, 2023
31 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
W.R. Gingell
46 books1,091 followersW.R. Gingell is an Australian author of urban fantasy, fairy-tale retellings, and madcap science fiction who doesn't seem to be able to write a book without a body suddenly turning up. She solemnly swears that all such bodies are strictly fictional in nature.
She lives in a refurbished 1970s Bedford Bus in the south of Tasmania, where she spends her time reading, drinking a truly ridiculous amount of tea, and raising spinach, strawberries, and one small, fluffy dog. Like Peter Pan, W.R. never really grew up, and despite the inconveniences of chronically ill life, is still occasionally to be found climbing trees.
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GOODREADS FRIEND POLICY: I don't tend to friend anyone unless they're a personal friend or someone from my close author circle. I have a limited social battery which needs constant care. If you want to keep up with my reading/writing, you can absolutely follow me here or on pretty much any social media site.
She lives in a refurbished 1970s Bedford Bus in the south of Tasmania, where she spends her time reading, drinking a truly ridiculous amount of tea, and raising spinach, strawberries, and one small, fluffy dog. Like Peter Pan, W.R. never really grew up, and despite the inconveniences of chronically ill life, is still occasionally to be found climbing trees.
You can sign up to the The WR(ite) Newsletter by following the link!
GOODREADS FRIEND POLICY: I don't tend to friend anyone unless they're a personal friend or someone from my close author circle. I have a limited social battery which needs constant care. If you want to keep up with my reading/writing, you can absolutely follow me here or on pretty much any social media site.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
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July 26, 2023what with covid, endo, surgery for endo, anaemia, and a blood clot from the surgery, the entire world seems to have been trying to stop me from writing this book this year
but it's done now so i win
anyway, this one has lots of blood, one bare chest and some clinging, and even Athelas doing the crabwalk, so don't miss out! only two books after this one to finish out the series!
(btw, the audiobooks aren't far away, everyone! book 1, A WHISKER BEHIND, drops on October 10th; and book 2, BEHIND CLOSED DOORS, drops November 21st!)
but it's done now so i win
anyway, this one has lots of blood, one bare chest and some clinging, and even Athelas doing the crabwalk, so don't miss out! only two books after this one to finish out the series!
(btw, the audiobooks aren't far away, everyone! book 1, A WHISKER BEHIND, drops on October 10th; and book 2, BEHIND CLOSED DOORS, drops November 21st!)
March 11, 2024
Most authors: Redemptions arcs are hard to get just right.
W.R. Gingell: Hold my tea. *proceeds to weave in not one, not two, but THREE redemption arcs (Athelas, Yeowoo, and Marazul to some extent after the events of the previous series), several characters attempting to heal (or actively trying to not heal but healing anyway in the case of a certain twisty fae) from abuse, and a whole book full of complicated and real relationships. All wrapped up in the package of a fun, twisting sort of urban fantasy set in South Korea*
W.R. Gingell: Hold my tea. *proceeds to weave in not one, not two, but THREE redemption arcs (Athelas, Yeowoo, and Marazul to some extent after the events of the previous series), several characters attempting to heal (or actively trying to not heal but healing anyway in the case of a certain twisty fae) from abuse, and a whole book full of complicated and real relationships. All wrapped up in the package of a fun, twisting sort of urban fantasy set in South Korea*
August 19, 2023
Another fantastic installation in this series, full of vicious characters learning how to forgive and change and become less comfortable with themselves, up against odds that seem to grow ever larger.
To that final cliffhanger, I can only say: FLAMIN’ RUDE.
And now I’m back to Languishing a la JinYeong until Book 4!
*
Having just finished Book Two in this series, I shall Languish like a vampire on a settee until this book arrives in August.
To that final cliffhanger, I can only say: FLAMIN’ RUDE.
And now I’m back to Languishing a la JinYeong until Book 4!
*
Having just finished Book Two in this series, I shall Languish like a vampire on a settee until this book arrives in August.
Read
December 20, 2023I read this in beta so I won't say much, but OH LOOK IS IT ATHELAS TWISTILY USING HIS POWERS FOR NICENESS AND NOT FOR EVIL :-O
August 15, 2023
Athelas: things are going so well and I am deeply suspicious
This ending: too right
This ending: too right
August 6, 2023
It was so fun to see the characters moving in new directions/developing new facets in this one.
Honestly, this series is just so darn insightful about trauma, justice, change, redemption…while also keeping the mystery and fights and weird magical creatures pumping along. WRG just keeps nailing it.
Favourite things: Harrow’s individual relationship with each housemate is genuinely touching. Marazul as a character is just so beautifully shaded and human - I want him to be happy! Camellia is perfection as always.
The unique storyline resolves elegantly, and there’s a gut punch of an epilogue to whet your appetite for the next one! The final scene is a corker.
Also, favourite line: “There was always something so inherently belligerent in the natural expression of an Australian.”
😂
Honestly, this series is just so darn insightful about trauma, justice, change, redemption…while also keeping the mystery and fights and weird magical creatures pumping along. WRG just keeps nailing it.
Favourite things: Harrow’s individual relationship with each housemate is genuinely touching. Marazul as a character is just so beautifully shaded and human - I want him to be happy! Camellia is perfection as always.
The unique storyline resolves elegantly, and there’s a gut punch of an epilogue to whet your appetite for the next one! The final scene is a corker.
Also, favourite line: “There was always something so inherently belligerent in the natural expression of an Australian.”
😂
February 11, 2024
4.5 stars.
That ending!? Ugh. I can't even. And the final book isn't out for more than a month.
I'm still a little confused and now I know why. It is first person. But I don't get to see all his thoughts. Ugh.
I want to see what happens next.
That ending!? Ugh. I can't even. And the final book isn't out for more than a month.
I'm still a little confused and now I know why. It is first person. But I don't get to see all his thoughts. Ugh.
I want to see what happens next.
August 14, 2023
HEAVENS TO BETSY WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO WITH THAT ENDING???
(full review to come when i'm able to string together a decent sentence)
(full review to come when i'm able to string together a decent sentence)
August 16, 2023
This was wonderfully chaotic and I'm so glad to see Athelas is doing what he does best--namely, denying he is capable of being nice while he in fact is being nice. And also murder.
I'm also glad to see YeoWoo angsting, as always, while denying that she is capable of being nice while she is in fact being nice. And also murder.
I'm indeed very glad to see Camellia neither confirming nor denying anything while consistently shaking the unshakeable fae off guard, as per her usual routine; Harrow being SAFE and WELL CARED FOR thatbetternotchange; and the ever-adorable Marazul fighting with YeoWoo over the most ridiculous things. There is a lot of murder in this book though, no doubt about it.
People are already filling the reviews with complaints about the ending so I just wanna say, don't let's be predictable; we all know the next one will answer half our questions and leave us hanging like this too anyway *flaps hand tiredly* Instead let's cheer for our ships because they might be sailing and OF COURSE Wendee will be LEAVING THEM ALONE because that's what she always does with our ships she LEAVES THEM ALONE so THEY CAN SAIL.
I'm also glad to see YeoWoo angsting, as always, while denying that she is capable of being nice while she is in fact being nice. And also murder.
I'm indeed very glad to see Camellia neither confirming nor denying anything while consistently shaking the unshakeable fae off guard, as per her usual routine; Harrow being SAFE and WELL CARED FOR thatbetternotchange; and the ever-adorable Marazul fighting with YeoWoo over the most ridiculous things. There is a lot of murder in this book though, no doubt about it.
People are already filling the reviews with complaints about the ending so I just wanna say, don't let's be predictable; we all know the next one will answer half our questions and leave us hanging like this too anyway *flaps hand tiredly* Instead let's cheer for our ships because they might be sailing and OF COURSE Wendee will be LEAVING THEM ALONE because that's what she always does with our ships she LEAVES THEM ALONE so THEY CAN SAIL.
September 29, 2023
Me: I am quite certain of my ship, hehe 💜
The ending: *happens*
Me: All right well I guess that person is just gonna die because I will just run them over with my ship 😌
Another fun, beautiful, heart wrenching, & humorous adventure in the City Between world.
And also Zero made some extended appearances. So I am very happy. 😌👏🏻
The ending: *happens*
Me: All right well I guess that person is just gonna die because I will just run them over with my ship 😌
Another fun, beautiful, heart wrenching, & humorous adventure in the City Between world.
And also Zero made some extended appearances. So I am very happy. 😌👏🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2024
Aaaaaaaaaagh the ending!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!?!??!!!!!!
Anyway great book, loved how much we got of Harrow.
He may be becoming (one of) my favourite male character, but then again there are so many amazing characters in this series!!!! I absolutely love his scenes with Athelas.
Also loving Marazul and Yeowoo and their complicated relationship. And I am extremely grateful that I am reading this series at a time when all the books are out, because I really don’t think I could have handled this cliffhanger.
It is kind of funny though because I was reading this book and got to the end, and was like “How dare you leave me on this horrible cliffhanger, I can’t handle it” and then I just picked up the next book and started reading. 😂
Anyway great book, loved how much we got of Harrow.
He may be becoming (one of) my favourite male character, but then again there are so many amazing characters in this series!!!! I absolutely love his scenes with Athelas.
Also loving Marazul and Yeowoo and their complicated relationship. And I am extremely grateful that I am reading this series at a time when all the books are out, because I really don’t think I could have handled this cliffhanger.
It is kind of funny though because I was reading this book and got to the end, and was like “How dare you leave me on this horrible cliffhanger, I can’t handle it” and then I just picked up the next book and started reading. 😂
August 14, 2023
so many Possible-Couple Moments, so many complicated emotions and thematic pairings, so many instant thoughts of murder upon reaching the last line
the flowers were screaming and so am i
the flowers were screaming and so am i
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2023
3.5 stars
September 3, 2023
HO HO HO THE PLOT THICKENS.
Athelas WILL be redeemed, whether he wants to be or not! YeoWoo is forgivable, whether she thinks she is or not! Marazul & YeoWoo are my OTP!!!
BUT THAT ENDING OH BOY
Athelas WILL be redeemed, whether he wants to be or not! YeoWoo is forgivable, whether she thinks she is or not! Marazul & YeoWoo are my OTP!!!
BUT THAT ENDING OH BOY
December 21, 2023
the fae continues to be twisty, the gumiho continues to be angry at her own feelings, the humans continue to give me more questions than answers. I liked this one! 4 stars
May 25, 2024
My fave of the spin off so far
December 7, 2025
*screams quietly*
January 12, 2024
The character development just keeps getting better, and I love the focus on the characters while the plot takes...not exactly a backseat but is definitely very character driven. And all the relationship happenings are DELIGHTFUL (love the kid, honestly)
Content: same as the previous two books. A good amount of violence and gore, no language, references to types of abuse and trafficking, etc.
Content: same as the previous two books. A good amount of violence and gore, no language, references to types of abuse and trafficking, etc.
August 13, 2023
Marazul + YeoWoo 4ever, and also: wtf, Gingell, was that ending?!???!???!?? I will expire from dread and anticipation before Behind the Curtain comes out. A+++++++, one million stars, I can’t even
August 22, 2023
Review for books 1-3 of the series (all that were out at the time).
You know, I didn’t think Gingell could top The City Between series with a spin-off, and I don’t know if I’d say this tops it. But man, is it right up there with it! I love what I have read so far, which is the first three books (all that are currently available).
The series does start out kind of slow and takes a little while to truly get invested in, even knowing and loving one of the main characters. But once it happens, there is a lot to love here. For me, the best part is the gruff, prickliness of both Athelas and YeoWoo that hides an absolute gooey center that both would deny until their dying breath…probably with their dying breath, actually. I ADORED them both! And seeing each paired with people who see right through them is a joy.
I do think there are a few phrases used too frequently (fancy and my dear come to mind). Though the humor and language are great, sometimes I wasn’t wholly sure what was happening. For example, a character would think, “Oh, I see,” and then the narrative would move on. But I was left going, “Wait, what do you see? I don’t see.”
Lastly, I very much enjoyed the glimpses of previous characters but was admittedly frustrated that those glimpses are all we get. All in all, I can’t wait for more. I admit, I originally thought it was going to be a trilogy. (I don’t know where I got that idea.) So, I’m both disappointed not to have reached a climactic conclusion and thrilled that I’ll get more time with these characters in the future. I have pre-ordered book four, Behind the Curtain.
You know, I didn’t think Gingell could top The City Between series with a spin-off, and I don’t know if I’d say this tops it. But man, is it right up there with it! I love what I have read so far, which is the first three books (all that are currently available).
The series does start out kind of slow and takes a little while to truly get invested in, even knowing and loving one of the main characters. But once it happens, there is a lot to love here. For me, the best part is the gruff, prickliness of both Athelas and YeoWoo that hides an absolute gooey center that both would deny until their dying breath…probably with their dying breath, actually. I ADORED them both! And seeing each paired with people who see right through them is a joy.
I do think there are a few phrases used too frequently (fancy and my dear come to mind). Though the humor and language are great, sometimes I wasn’t wholly sure what was happening. For example, a character would think, “Oh, I see,” and then the narrative would move on. But I was left going, “Wait, what do you see? I don’t see.”
Lastly, I very much enjoyed the glimpses of previous characters but was admittedly frustrated that those glimpses are all we get. All in all, I can’t wait for more. I admit, I originally thought it was going to be a trilogy. (I don’t know where I got that idea.) So, I’m both disappointed not to have reached a climactic conclusion and thrilled that I’ll get more time with these characters in the future. I have pre-ordered book four, Behind the Curtain.
November 30, 2023
This is an exciting story! I almost gave up on the series after book 2 disappointed me, but that would have been a mistake. I really enjoyed book 3 and had a hard time putting it down. Now I can hardly wait for book 4!
August 18, 2023
This is the most delightful redemption story arc I have read in a very long time. Grace acting on shriveled souls makes for realistic, funny, bittersweet, but hopeful reading.
August 21, 2023
I'm so sad it ended!
First off (because I just read it) that ending was... I don't know. Like dangling a carrot of information, giving you a little nibble, and then snatched away with a "maybe next time!" I wouldn't call it a plot cliff hanger (the main plot for this book is wrapped up) but it's definitely a side-plot cliff hanger and it was very tricksy! But I loved and am eager for more!
There's so much I love about this book, but it's mostly the characters. Athelas and YeoWoo are interesting heads to be in, especially with how they look at and deal with their past misdeeds. It's entertaining (and sad) to see how Athelas has to justify (or lie) to himself about his motivations in doing a good thing. It's so interesting watching how his affections grow for those around him while he pretends it isn't really happening. And it's interesting to see how YeoWoo processes (or not) her guilt. And it's fun to see other characters (ahem, Camellia and Marazul) prod past their prickly/aloof exteriors.
Love these books! Definitely recommend them if you enjoy complicated and twisty characters and don't mind a bit of slightly gorey action thrown in!
First off (because I just read it) that ending was... I don't know. Like dangling a carrot of information, giving you a little nibble, and then snatched away with a "maybe next time!" I wouldn't call it a plot cliff hanger (the main plot for this book is wrapped up) but it's definitely a side-plot cliff hanger and it was very tricksy! But I loved and am eager for more!
There's so much I love about this book, but it's mostly the characters. Athelas and YeoWoo are interesting heads to be in, especially with how they look at and deal with their past misdeeds. It's entertaining (and sad) to see how Athelas has to justify (or lie) to himself about his motivations in doing a good thing. It's so interesting watching how his affections grow for those around him while he pretends it isn't really happening. And it's interesting to see how YeoWoo processes (or not) her guilt. And it's fun to see other characters (ahem, Camellia and Marazul) prod past their prickly/aloof exteriors.
Love these books! Definitely recommend them if you enjoy complicated and twisty characters and don't mind a bit of slightly gorey action thrown in!
August 18, 2023
Wet Behind The Ears is the third book in the World Behind series, which is a sequel to the excellent City Between series. Athelas, YeoWoo, Camellia and Harrow still have their secrets and their individual problems and agendas and they’re still trying to find out who’s been selling human contracts (slaves) in Seoul.
More than anything this series is about forgiveness and redemption. “I like to hope people can change,” said Camellia. “They usually don’t. I know that. But I need to believe they can.” But even more than that, the book is about people forgiving themselves so that they can change.
I sometimes felt, with this book, that I needed to pay extra close attention to the dialogue because so much more was going on than was directly being said (tricky Fae!). The author is brilliant at planting all these little threads and then pulling them all together in the end, although this book isn’t really the end. While the main story is wrapped up, there is quite a bombshell at the end of this story that leads to the next book which will be out in December.
August 22, 2023
4.5 stars
I had planned on reading a different book, but I saw that this one had just been released, and I couldn't resist. This series, along with The City Between, have become some of my favorites in the urban fantasy genre. It's such a fascinating and weird world filled with wonderful, complex, and twisty characters. Characters who, despite their flaws, I've really come to love.
This was another great addition to the series. Action-packed and full of twists, there was never a dull moment. There was definite progress made, but more questions popped up too.
I saw a lot of growth in more than one of the characters. Yeah, it was more subtle in some, but it was there, and I was happy to see it. And I have to say that I was ecstatic with the progress of a certain character.
That ending threw me for a loop, though, so to say I'm eager for the next book is an understatement. It can't come out soon enough.
I had planned on reading a different book, but I saw that this one had just been released, and I couldn't resist. This series, along with The City Between, have become some of my favorites in the urban fantasy genre. It's such a fascinating and weird world filled with wonderful, complex, and twisty characters. Characters who, despite their flaws, I've really come to love.
This was another great addition to the series. Action-packed and full of twists, there was never a dull moment. There was definite progress made, but more questions popped up too.
I saw a lot of growth in more than one of the characters. Yeah, it was more subtle in some, but it was there, and I was happy to see it. And I have to say that I was ecstatic with the progress of a certain character.
That ending threw me for a loop, though, so to say I'm eager for the next book is an understatement. It can't come out soon enough.
August 17, 2023
Love it!
There's a lot of action scenes in this book, which were good. Yet my favorite things are definitely the characters and their dynamics.
Athelas may have had British grampa vibes in the last series, but this one, he's totally the dad.
Him and the gumiho have such sibling vibes that when harrow called her auntie, I laughed out loud. Every scene with Harrow was the best scene.
I also have always loved Marazul, and we were blessed with so much of him this book! I am definitely rooting for the poor bloke.
I was a little hopeful we'd be getting a little sister for Harrow this one with the end, still hoping as I think he'd be such a protective but awkward bean with a child younger than him.
The ending, the author totally shocked me, and I gasped out loud.
Can't wait for the next book! Loving this series so much.
There's a lot of action scenes in this book, which were good. Yet my favorite things are definitely the characters and their dynamics.
Athelas may have had British grampa vibes in the last series, but this one, he's totally the dad.
Him and the gumiho have such sibling vibes that when harrow called her auntie, I laughed out loud. Every scene with Harrow was the best scene.
I also have always loved Marazul, and we were blessed with so much of him this book! I am definitely rooting for the poor bloke.
I was a little hopeful we'd be getting a little sister for Harrow this one with the end, still hoping as I think he'd be such a protective but awkward bean with a child younger than him.
The ending, the author totally shocked me, and I gasped out loud.
Can't wait for the next book! Loving this series so much.
August 15, 2023
The investigation Athelas and YeoWoo are conducting has hint some snags: a lack of clues leading anywhere and the danger rising as people do not like their interference. But one merman with a complicated past with both Athelas and YeoWoo may just be the lead they need...if only he can remember...
Things are definitely getting complicated for Athelas and YeoWoo, emotionally and dangerous as they try to get closer to their goals. I like where this is leading and the gradual change and growth of characters instead of a flash of lightning. I particularly like having the merman show up again.
I adore this and the previous series. And the ending is a doozer.
Things are definitely getting complicated for Athelas and YeoWoo, emotionally and dangerous as they try to get closer to their goals. I like where this is leading and the gradual change and growth of characters instead of a flash of lightning. I particularly like having the merman show up again.
I adore this and the previous series. And the ending is a doozer.
January 16, 2024
I received this AUDIOBOOK for free. My opinions are my own.
Although I am still struggling a bit to connect with YeeWoo, I feel like I have finally clicked with everyone else and am truly enjoying this spin-off. I really liked the relationship between Athelas & Harrow in this one. My only real concern is with the minor cliffy at the end. I wonder if the new (problematic) character will throw off the balance or finally help everyone gel as a group.
NARRATION: My only complaint this time is the same as the last one, I don't love his version of Zero. Other than that, his voice is great and his performance is excellent.
Although I am still struggling a bit to connect with YeeWoo, I feel like I have finally clicked with everyone else and am truly enjoying this spin-off. I really liked the relationship between Athelas & Harrow in this one. My only real concern is with the minor cliffy at the end. I wonder if the new (problematic) character will throw off the balance or finally help everyone gel as a group.
NARRATION: My only complaint this time is the same as the last one, I don't love his version of Zero. Other than that, his voice is great and his performance is excellent.
August 17, 2023
I was waiting impatiently for this book to come out and now I'm waiting impatiently for the next one.
It's hard to say what I liked about this book without spoilers, but we're finally getting some peaks at some of the things that have been hinted at in the last two books, which hopefully means the next book is going to be stuffed with reveals. Harrow is developing interesting abilities. Athelas is maybe discovering faint glimmers of a conscious. The book was well paced and delightful. Can't wait for the next one!
It's hard to say what I liked about this book without spoilers, but we're finally getting some peaks at some of the things that have been hinted at in the last two books, which hopefully means the next book is going to be stuffed with reveals. Harrow is developing interesting abilities. Athelas is maybe discovering faint glimmers of a conscious. The book was well paced and delightful. Can't wait for the next one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews