What do you think?
Rate this book
Tombtown #1
Books and Bone
A Librarians-and-Necromancy Fantasy with Small Town Charm in a City of the Dead
The others believe in blood and bone. Ree believes in books.
She manages the libraries and draws maps for the denizens of her hometown, a secret society of necromancers hiding in a sprawling underground crypt. Though they look down on her for not practicing their craft, Ree has bigger ambitions than raising the dead. She's going to resurrect therianthropy, the ancient magic of shapeshifting. Or at least -- she'll do it if it really exists. And if she can find the books that prove it.
But Smythe, a chatty historian from the world above, stumbles into the crypt and takes a curse meant for Ree. Now she has to find a way to save him, keep the townsfolk off her back, and convince her necromancer parents that shapeshifting is a viable career path.
Ree is certain that if she and Smythe combine their scholarly skill sets, they'll find the right books to solve their problems. But Ree's search for power might put the entire town in danger, and her father and the other townsfolk want Smythe dead lest he reveal their home to a world that hates them.
The others believe in blood and bone. Ree believes in books.
She manages the libraries and draws maps for the denizens of her hometown, a secret society of necromancers hiding in a sprawling underground crypt. Though they look down on her for not practicing their craft, Ree has bigger ambitions than raising the dead. She's going to resurrect therianthropy, the ancient magic of shapeshifting. Or at least -- she'll do it if it really exists. And if she can find the books that prove it.
But Smythe, a chatty historian from the world above, stumbles into the crypt and takes a curse meant for Ree. Now she has to find a way to save him, keep the townsfolk off her back, and convince her necromancer parents that shapeshifting is a viable career path.
Ree is certain that if she and Smythe combine their scholarly skill sets, they'll find the right books to solve their problems. But Ree's search for power might put the entire town in danger, and her father and the other townsfolk want Smythe dead lest he reveal their home to a world that hates them.
Kindle Edition
Published April 22, 2019
1 person is currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Corva
7 books29 followersVictoria Corva writes things and reads things and reads things out loud, and sometimes they get paid for that, which is nice because it means they can feed their cat.
They live in Wiltshire with their partner and their furry familiar and as many books as they could fit in their small flat.
They are anxious and autistic and doing just fine.
To find out more about them and read more of their work, visit https://victoriacorva.xyz
They live in Wiltshire with their partner and their furry familiar and as many books as they could fit in their small flat.
They are anxious and autistic and doing just fine.
To find out more about them and read more of their work, visit https://victoriacorva.xyz
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 17, 2020
Ree is not like other girls. Or like anyone in the city of the dead actually. Because even though necromancy is Tombtown’s thing, she knows in her heart that it’s just not for her. Instead, she dreams of something lost, a form of shapeshifting magic called therianthropy. Forgotten by everyone living, and most of the dead too, Ree must turn to books for her answers. But the path to knowledge never did run smooth, especially after she trips over a young historian on his own journey. Finding an upworlder gone astray in the crypts is one thing but then he has the audacity to take a curse meant for her and nearly die in the process. She owes him big, but keeping him safe will put everyone in danger. Still, if he can help her find what she’s looking for, it might just be worth the risk…
This was the hook that caught me, an idea that sounded fresh and fun. I came across it in the SPFBO sampler which, despite my already ridiculous TBR, I had decided to flick though just in case I might have missed something. Some of the books I’d already read during the year I was judging, and there were SO MANY MORE that caught my eye, but there was something about Victoria Corva’s Books and Bone that had me thinking about it weeks later. Clearly, I had to read it. [For those wanting to take a look at the sampler, check it out here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/ett75g3wn3 ]
Probably the most appealing, and effective, aspect of the book is the deliberate contrast between the author's humorous and rather wholesome approach to the story and the expectations a reader might have due to the setting— an underground crypt in which necromancy is the only game in town. That, of course, is a huge part of the fun. Victoria Corva tends to come at her creation sideways and it's clear that not only has she taken the time to really think about how this society would work, but also about how she wants to bring that knowledge to the reader. The worldbuilding is detailed and wide-ranging, giving the place an unquestionable veracity, but never overwhelming. Chapter openers (like the one below) are utilised as 'sources' and offer the opportunity for amusing and artful description. Not only do they provide the reader with important info about the place and its inhabitants in a way that avoids info dumping within the actual story, they’re also a means of saying something about the way the tale is going to be told. Snarky commentary, a sense of playfulness, the inventive use of narrative structure, an authorial impulse to work against expectations- all these factors both build and reflect the conflict between the story's style and its setting. It's also one of the reasons that, for me, the book walked the line between YA and adult, with the author's commitment to humour, the young cast, and the youthful moral outlook lightening what could have been a much darker read. The comedy is layered though the narrative in varied and surprising ways, hitting different notes as required, and is especially rewarding when undermining the seriousness with which some of the characters take themselves. Unsurprisingly, necromancers tend to be a haughty, self-important bunch.
The seven founding necromancers set themselves up as a town council to settle disputes among the denizens and intimidate unruly necromancers into obedience. As necromancers naturally form into cabals under more powerful practitioners, this shape of governance worked with little rebellion. As of the time of writing, only three of the seven founding council members have been executed for treason and mutiny. This success is much celebrated and at solstices the tortured souls of the offending council members are summoned to warn young denizens of the dangers of trying to grab too much power. It is a delightful tradition and a favourite of children.
The people rightly remain the heart of the novel and provide the necessary grounding to give the setting an everyday feeling even when things get decidedly weird. In a similar way to the tone, the limited depth lends itself more towards the lighter end of the age spectrum. The critical question of Ree’s life is how to be herself in a world that wants her to be someone else. Yet the framing of that conflict first through parental expectations makes this the quintessential teen dilemma. Even so, Ree is the kind of likeable person who you want to succeed. Her intelligence and initiative are what propels the plot forwards, she makes things happen. She’s a girl full of potential and it is only partly realised here. There’s room for so much more in the future and I really hope we get to see it. Sadly, the same can’t be said for the bumbling Smythe, who was an instant and everlasting irritant to me. As much as I could appreciate his role as a foil for Ree, and understood that the author meant him to be annoying, I disliked him from the first page to the last. His very small amount of growth as a person did little to change my initial impression and his actions only compounded my decision. Instead, I wanted more of the brilliant friend/enemy Usther. The depiction of this complex and compelling female friendship was a highlight, with moments of sheer perfection. The to and fro of their relationship reminded me so much of me and my sister, with all the shades of love and competition and petty disagreements that go with such bonds.
Books and Bone is an imaginative and funny novel that’s well worth a go, especially if you’re looking for something that’s kinda gross but heart warming too. Most of all, it’ll make you smile. It might even make you desperate to have your own bitey dead/undead friend called Larry one day and that kind of positive outcome is really all you can ask for from a book.
ARC via author
This was the hook that caught me, an idea that sounded fresh and fun. I came across it in the SPFBO sampler which, despite my already ridiculous TBR, I had decided to flick though just in case I might have missed something. Some of the books I’d already read during the year I was judging, and there were SO MANY MORE that caught my eye, but there was something about Victoria Corva’s Books and Bone that had me thinking about it weeks later. Clearly, I had to read it. [For those wanting to take a look at the sampler, check it out here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/ett75g3wn3 ]
Probably the most appealing, and effective, aspect of the book is the deliberate contrast between the author's humorous and rather wholesome approach to the story and the expectations a reader might have due to the setting— an underground crypt in which necromancy is the only game in town. That, of course, is a huge part of the fun. Victoria Corva tends to come at her creation sideways and it's clear that not only has she taken the time to really think about how this society would work, but also about how she wants to bring that knowledge to the reader. The worldbuilding is detailed and wide-ranging, giving the place an unquestionable veracity, but never overwhelming. Chapter openers (like the one below) are utilised as 'sources' and offer the opportunity for amusing and artful description. Not only do they provide the reader with important info about the place and its inhabitants in a way that avoids info dumping within the actual story, they’re also a means of saying something about the way the tale is going to be told. Snarky commentary, a sense of playfulness, the inventive use of narrative structure, an authorial impulse to work against expectations- all these factors both build and reflect the conflict between the story's style and its setting. It's also one of the reasons that, for me, the book walked the line between YA and adult, with the author's commitment to humour, the young cast, and the youthful moral outlook lightening what could have been a much darker read. The comedy is layered though the narrative in varied and surprising ways, hitting different notes as required, and is especially rewarding when undermining the seriousness with which some of the characters take themselves. Unsurprisingly, necromancers tend to be a haughty, self-important bunch.
The seven founding necromancers set themselves up as a town council to settle disputes among the denizens and intimidate unruly necromancers into obedience. As necromancers naturally form into cabals under more powerful practitioners, this shape of governance worked with little rebellion. As of the time of writing, only three of the seven founding council members have been executed for treason and mutiny. This success is much celebrated and at solstices the tortured souls of the offending council members are summoned to warn young denizens of the dangers of trying to grab too much power. It is a delightful tradition and a favourite of children.
The people rightly remain the heart of the novel and provide the necessary grounding to give the setting an everyday feeling even when things get decidedly weird. In a similar way to the tone, the limited depth lends itself more towards the lighter end of the age spectrum. The critical question of Ree’s life is how to be herself in a world that wants her to be someone else. Yet the framing of that conflict first through parental expectations makes this the quintessential teen dilemma. Even so, Ree is the kind of likeable person who you want to succeed. Her intelligence and initiative are what propels the plot forwards, she makes things happen. She’s a girl full of potential and it is only partly realised here. There’s room for so much more in the future and I really hope we get to see it. Sadly, the same can’t be said for the bumbling Smythe, who was an instant and everlasting irritant to me. As much as I could appreciate his role as a foil for Ree, and understood that the author meant him to be annoying, I disliked him from the first page to the last. His very small amount of growth as a person did little to change my initial impression and his actions only compounded my decision. Instead, I wanted more of the brilliant friend/enemy Usther. The depiction of this complex and compelling female friendship was a highlight, with moments of sheer perfection. The to and fro of their relationship reminded me so much of me and my sister, with all the shades of love and competition and petty disagreements that go with such bonds.
Books and Bone is an imaginative and funny novel that’s well worth a go, especially if you’re looking for something that’s kinda gross but heart warming too. Most of all, it’ll make you smile. It might even make you desperate to have your own bitey dead/undead friend called Larry one day and that kind of positive outcome is really all you can ask for from a book.
ARC via author
October 11, 2019
7/10
Ree, short for Reanima, lives in an tomb complex populated by necromancers and other creepy beings beneath the modern world above. This "city of the dead" has existed unbeknownst to regular human society and the residents of Tombtown would like to keep it that way if at all possible. While most of those in Tombtown practice the art of necromancy, Ree has other ambitions, foremost among them is wanting to rediscover the ancient art of shape shifting. Her parents are none too keen with this idea and would prefer that Ree focus her sights on her already predetermined station.
Being a librarian in the ghoulish city is a definite plus since Ree can scour the seemingly endless shelves looking for that one book that will impart to her the knowledge that she is so avidly seeking. However she never expected Smythe, a historian and outsider from the world above Tombtown, to accidentally wander into forbidden necromancer territory and cast all of her best-laid plans in doubt. For when Smythe suddenly becomes afflicted with a curse that was supposed to be directed at Ree, she becomes enmeshed in a potential conspiracy where there are infinitely more questions than answers.
This book worked for me on quite a few levels. First of all, I work in a library so the whole library angle was very cool, especially when you also factor in the whole dark underworld aspect. It reminded me a little of Genevieve Cogman's Invisible Library series at times, which I am fan of. The concept of an underground society that exists without the knowledge of the greater outside world really appealed to me and I wanted to know more about the history behind the conflicting societies.
Ree is an interesting character as she is constantly at odds with the expectations of who she should be that are placed upon her by her parents and the rest of the community of necromancers. We really get a sense for her struggle to be her own person in the midst of a lot of inner turmoil. I was instantly drawn to her as a character and Corva does an excellent job of making her entirely likeable and relateable.
Although this book has a slightly dark theme and setting, I found it to be pretty lighthearted overall. I've heard some people say that it should be classified as YA or middle-grade fiction, but I would stop short of that. I would classify it more as "comfort-read" fantasy in much the same way that the books of David Eddings and Terry Brooks are. It definitely has a similar quality to those books in that it contains quite a few moments of sarcastic humor coupled with the fun fantasy elements.
All in all I enjoyed BOOKS AND BONE and the only real issue I had with it was at times I thought the dialogue got a bit too long-winded. But other than that I recommend this book without reservation to readers who enjoy their fantasy with a splash of horror, a smidge of creepiness, a dash of humor, and a whole lot of cool world-building. This was a fun and enjoyable read and I look forward to checking out more of Victoria Corva's books in the future!
Ree, short for Reanima, lives in an tomb complex populated by necromancers and other creepy beings beneath the modern world above. This "city of the dead" has existed unbeknownst to regular human society and the residents of Tombtown would like to keep it that way if at all possible. While most of those in Tombtown practice the art of necromancy, Ree has other ambitions, foremost among them is wanting to rediscover the ancient art of shape shifting. Her parents are none too keen with this idea and would prefer that Ree focus her sights on her already predetermined station.
Being a librarian in the ghoulish city is a definite plus since Ree can scour the seemingly endless shelves looking for that one book that will impart to her the knowledge that she is so avidly seeking. However she never expected Smythe, a historian and outsider from the world above Tombtown, to accidentally wander into forbidden necromancer territory and cast all of her best-laid plans in doubt. For when Smythe suddenly becomes afflicted with a curse that was supposed to be directed at Ree, she becomes enmeshed in a potential conspiracy where there are infinitely more questions than answers.
This book worked for me on quite a few levels. First of all, I work in a library so the whole library angle was very cool, especially when you also factor in the whole dark underworld aspect. It reminded me a little of Genevieve Cogman's Invisible Library series at times, which I am fan of. The concept of an underground society that exists without the knowledge of the greater outside world really appealed to me and I wanted to know more about the history behind the conflicting societies.
Ree is an interesting character as she is constantly at odds with the expectations of who she should be that are placed upon her by her parents and the rest of the community of necromancers. We really get a sense for her struggle to be her own person in the midst of a lot of inner turmoil. I was instantly drawn to her as a character and Corva does an excellent job of making her entirely likeable and relateable.
Although this book has a slightly dark theme and setting, I found it to be pretty lighthearted overall. I've heard some people say that it should be classified as YA or middle-grade fiction, but I would stop short of that. I would classify it more as "comfort-read" fantasy in much the same way that the books of David Eddings and Terry Brooks are. It definitely has a similar quality to those books in that it contains quite a few moments of sarcastic humor coupled with the fun fantasy elements.
All in all I enjoyed BOOKS AND BONE and the only real issue I had with it was at times I thought the dialogue got a bit too long-winded. But other than that I recommend this book without reservation to readers who enjoy their fantasy with a splash of horror, a smidge of creepiness, a dash of humor, and a whole lot of cool world-building. This was a fun and enjoyable read and I look forward to checking out more of Victoria Corva's books in the future!
November 17, 2019
Books and Bone was picked by me as one of our SPFBO semi-finalists!
This review was originally posted on the blog RockStarlit BookAsylum, as part of our SPFBO finalist review.
Books and Bone was among the last books I've slush piled for SPFBO. Partly because I was trying to catch up to the others throughout the months so we could keep eliminating our titles, and partly because I had a feeling it'll be good and tried to save it. Unless one other book which I read really early and kept comparing all the other books to it. Ugh, anyway, back to the book at hand.
Ree grew up surrounded by necromancers, magic users and the dead in a necropolis called Tombtown. Pressured by her parents to learn one type of magic - preferably the Craft, the most powerful of all - Ree is determined to go after her own head and choose her own path, regardless of what other people expect from her. Enter Smythe into the picture (spoiler: it's not going to go down well), an upwolder historian with a neverending curiosity and a bubbly personality which is in stark contrast with everything Ree ever knew. Growing up in a cold and competitive environment, she has no idea how to handle friendliness. Not surprising, given that her best friend, Usther, has her picture in the dictionary next to frienemy. I honestly didn't like Usther for a long time, she kind of grew on me, even though I still think she would deserve a good slap. Or two. Or three. Anyway.
Books and Bone has a cool setting. I love the idea of necromancers living in an underground city, surrounded by almost endless suply for their Craft. That they have a bit disfunctional society. Oh, and an awesome library system to boot. I really wish we've spent a bit more time discovering Tombtown itself. The characters inhabiting it are well fleshed out, though I would have liked to have more focus on them in a whole, rather than all the things that happened. Let me explain. There is a lot happening in Books and Bone. Maybe a bit too much. Some things felt rushed, and there wasn't enough time and space to build up to to them. That said, some twists got me by suprise, and I absolutely didn't see some of them coming, which is great. I rarely get genuinly suprised by a twist.
But even so, the ending felt a bit rushed as well and the book ended somehow abruptly. I would have liked to discover more the relationships between the characters and their pasts. That being said, the writing itself was really good, though it could have used another round of proofreading/editing. I found some parts a bit repetitive regarding Ree and her ambitions.
Despite its flaws, Books and Bone was undoubtedly one of my favourites in our group of 30 books. Although its setting not exactly cheery, there is something utterly charming in this book that just won me over. If you are looking for something unique containing magic, death people, queer characters and twists that you never saw coming, then you are in for a treat with Books and Bone. I, for one, can't wait to learn how the story goes and what else Ree can accomplish. Oh, and did I mention the kick-ass libraries?
This review was originally posted on the blog RockStarlit BookAsylum, as part of our SPFBO finalist review.
Books and Bone was among the last books I've slush piled for SPFBO. Partly because I was trying to catch up to the others throughout the months so we could keep eliminating our titles, and partly because I had a feeling it'll be good and tried to save it. Unless one other book which I read really early and kept comparing all the other books to it. Ugh, anyway, back to the book at hand.
Ree grew up surrounded by necromancers, magic users and the dead in a necropolis called Tombtown. Pressured by her parents to learn one type of magic - preferably the Craft, the most powerful of all - Ree is determined to go after her own head and choose her own path, regardless of what other people expect from her. Enter Smythe into the picture (spoiler: it's not going to go down well), an upwolder historian with a neverending curiosity and a bubbly personality which is in stark contrast with everything Ree ever knew. Growing up in a cold and competitive environment, she has no idea how to handle friendliness. Not surprising, given that her best friend, Usther, has her picture in the dictionary next to frienemy. I honestly didn't like Usther for a long time, she kind of grew on me, even though I still think she would deserve a good slap. Or two. Or three. Anyway.
Books and Bone has a cool setting. I love the idea of necromancers living in an underground city, surrounded by almost endless suply for their Craft. That they have a bit disfunctional society. Oh, and an awesome library system to boot. I really wish we've spent a bit more time discovering Tombtown itself. The characters inhabiting it are well fleshed out, though I would have liked to have more focus on them in a whole, rather than all the things that happened. Let me explain. There is a lot happening in Books and Bone. Maybe a bit too much. Some things felt rushed, and there wasn't enough time and space to build up to to them. That said, some twists got me by suprise, and I absolutely didn't see some of them coming, which is great. I rarely get genuinly suprised by a twist.
But even so, the ending felt a bit rushed as well and the book ended somehow abruptly. I would have liked to discover more the relationships between the characters and their pasts. That being said, the writing itself was really good, though it could have used another round of proofreading/editing. I found some parts a bit repetitive regarding Ree and her ambitions.
Despite its flaws, Books and Bone was undoubtedly one of my favourites in our group of 30 books. Although its setting not exactly cheery, there is something utterly charming in this book that just won me over. If you are looking for something unique containing magic, death people, queer characters and twists that you never saw coming, then you are in for a treat with Books and Bone. I, for one, can't wait to learn how the story goes and what else Ree can accomplish. Oh, and did I mention the kick-ass libraries?
December 2, 2019
I will come back and score this after final team choices are made and we have chosen a finalist.
Ree has done the unforgivable, she has broken the most important (and only) town law there is; she has brought an upworlder into Tombtown.
Things get worse when Usther finds out, and Ree has to try and convince the council Smythe won’t be any trouble and to let him live before Usther tells on her, because finding out about Tombtown means death.
Ree owes Smythe a debt and wants to help him get back to the topworld but Smythe has ideas of his own. He wants to stay amongst the crypts and learn from the dead. If learning the Craft is the only way he will be allowed to stay, then he’ll consider it (especially if they could find a less messy and smelly way to go about the lessons).
***
This combines a few things that I love – libraries & book themes, girl friendships (yay), and a mystery. The story walks the line a little between YA and adult, with the content between dark and even a bit gory (it is necromancy) dealing with expectations of your family and others, friendships, and some light-gnawing fun.
***
Ree is in a funky spot, her father is a Necromancer and the town head. Her mother is a high priestess of Morris the Undying and Ree doesn’t want to follow in either of their footsteps. She wants to resurrect Therianthropy,- the ability to shapeshift by wearing the animal’s skin (like a Skinwalker) but it’s a lost craft that has almost no information on it’s following. Ree needs to choose a craft because you can’t live in Tombtown without one, and the grace of her powerful parents will only last with the townsfolk for so long.
Chandrian Smythe – third rank historian, has some stuff to prove. Young and smart, he is feeling an outcast from his life in the upworld and stumbles across Ree in his search through the tunnels and crypts looking for proof of his theories to bring to his peers. Ree is attracted to his brightness and how he exudes so much life. She is torn on his decision, if he decides to go the route of necromancy in order to stay below, she doesn’t really want him to lose that warmth she sees in him to the darkness that the art of necromancy takes from a person. (I would have loved a more in-depth look into her feeling about this)
Usther – Older by a few years than Ree, Usther would like to think she is Ree’s nemesis but in reality, she’s more a frenemy. She is a necromancer and a bit power hungry and doesn’t like to share but all the necromancers are that way. I loved Usther, she’s kind of a snarky ass at times but she’s not apologizing for her goals.
Larry– the minion. Who knew a half-rotten corpse could have so much charm but there you go. Larry ended up having an interesting history which in some ways took away a little of that charm but I liked the comic relief he gave and also that he wasn’t over-used.
Usther was my favourite character and her and Ree’s friendship the highlight of the story for me. I liked that we could see a competitive girl character without her being an enemy, and that it didn’t automatically make her the “bad guy”. I also liked that though both girls could be a little selfish you could see they did care about the other, even when they pretended that they didn’t.
***
There was a lot packed in to this book. Between Ree’s career choice, getting Smythe settled in and an outcome decided for him, and solving the mystery of the Lich along with a surprise detour, it was a good amount to wrap up in one story.
The story did wrap up everything, but getting there did give some of the solutions a rushed and/or easy feel. Especially with the two main arcs: the resolution to the Lich problem and the search for the Therianthrope transmutation – which felt a little like the answers just fell into her hands after all her time searching.
I almost wished the Lich mystery had been saved for another book because there were so many interesting dynamics that were going on between the rest, and we could have had a more in-depth look into the characters and the friendships (they were so wonderful). But also, because the whole thing with the Lich was a neat little twist in the story, that I would have loved to explore more thoroughly.
Minor criticisms aside this was a good solid read and though I’ve never been one on necromancy stories (they never had Larry either) I enjoyed it a lot.
Other notes
I’ve never wanted a pet corpse until Larry. (wow never thought that would be a thought I’d have)
Opening of the chapters gives us quotes from different books to do with Tombtown – It’s worldbuilding without having to sit through worldbuilding (sort of). I’m liking that more and more authors do this, it keeps the pace up while adding quick little tidbits to fill out the details.
Occasionally we’d jump in time and it felt shorter – for instance towards the end after coming back, they’d used three days but it felt like the same day.
Go here to find out more about SPFBO contest and to find links to all the participating bloggers/authors and reviews!
https://mark---lawrence.blogspot.com/...
Go here to see the announcement for Timy's team choice!
https://starlitbook.com/2019/11/15/sp...
spfbo score 7/10
Ree has done the unforgivable, she has broken the most important (and only) town law there is; she has brought an upworlder into Tombtown.
Things get worse when Usther finds out, and Ree has to try and convince the council Smythe won’t be any trouble and to let him live before Usther tells on her, because finding out about Tombtown means death.
Ree owes Smythe a debt and wants to help him get back to the topworld but Smythe has ideas of his own. He wants to stay amongst the crypts and learn from the dead. If learning the Craft is the only way he will be allowed to stay, then he’ll consider it (especially if they could find a less messy and smelly way to go about the lessons).
***
This combines a few things that I love – libraries & book themes, girl friendships (yay), and a mystery. The story walks the line a little between YA and adult, with the content between dark and even a bit gory (it is necromancy) dealing with expectations of your family and others, friendships, and some light-gnawing fun.
***
Ree is in a funky spot, her father is a Necromancer and the town head. Her mother is a high priestess of Morris the Undying and Ree doesn’t want to follow in either of their footsteps. She wants to resurrect Therianthropy,- the ability to shapeshift by wearing the animal’s skin (like a Skinwalker) but it’s a lost craft that has almost no information on it’s following. Ree needs to choose a craft because you can’t live in Tombtown without one, and the grace of her powerful parents will only last with the townsfolk for so long.
Chandrian Smythe – third rank historian, has some stuff to prove. Young and smart, he is feeling an outcast from his life in the upworld and stumbles across Ree in his search through the tunnels and crypts looking for proof of his theories to bring to his peers. Ree is attracted to his brightness and how he exudes so much life. She is torn on his decision, if he decides to go the route of necromancy in order to stay below, she doesn’t really want him to lose that warmth she sees in him to the darkness that the art of necromancy takes from a person. (I would have loved a more in-depth look into her feeling about this)
Usther – Older by a few years than Ree, Usther would like to think she is Ree’s nemesis but in reality, she’s more a frenemy. She is a necromancer and a bit power hungry and doesn’t like to share but all the necromancers are that way. I loved Usther, she’s kind of a snarky ass at times but she’s not apologizing for her goals.
Larry– the minion. Who knew a half-rotten corpse could have so much charm but there you go. Larry ended up having an interesting history which in some ways took away a little of that charm but I liked the comic relief he gave and also that he wasn’t over-used.
Usther was my favourite character and her and Ree’s friendship the highlight of the story for me. I liked that we could see a competitive girl character without her being an enemy, and that it didn’t automatically make her the “bad guy”. I also liked that though both girls could be a little selfish you could see they did care about the other, even when they pretended that they didn’t.
***
There was a lot packed in to this book. Between Ree’s career choice, getting Smythe settled in and an outcome decided for him, and solving the mystery of the Lich along with a surprise detour, it was a good amount to wrap up in one story.
The story did wrap up everything, but getting there did give some of the solutions a rushed and/or easy feel. Especially with the two main arcs: the resolution to the Lich problem and the search for the Therianthrope transmutation – which felt a little like the answers just fell into her hands after all her time searching.
I almost wished the Lich mystery had been saved for another book because there were so many interesting dynamics that were going on between the rest, and we could have had a more in-depth look into the characters and the friendships (they were so wonderful). But also, because the whole thing with the Lich was a neat little twist in the story, that I would have loved to explore more thoroughly.
Minor criticisms aside this was a good solid read and though I’ve never been one on necromancy stories (they never had Larry either) I enjoyed it a lot.
Other notes
I’ve never wanted a pet corpse until Larry. (wow never thought that would be a thought I’d have)
Opening of the chapters gives us quotes from different books to do with Tombtown – It’s worldbuilding without having to sit through worldbuilding (sort of). I’m liking that more and more authors do this, it keeps the pace up while adding quick little tidbits to fill out the details.
Occasionally we’d jump in time and it felt shorter – for instance towards the end after coming back, they’d used three days but it felt like the same day.
Go here to find out more about SPFBO contest and to find links to all the participating bloggers/authors and reviews!
https://mark---lawrence.blogspot.com/...
Go here to see the announcement for Timy's team choice!
https://starlitbook.com/2019/11/15/sp...
spfbo score 7/10
June 30, 2019
The protagonist of this story, Ree, is an interesting character. With some proper development she could be the kind of character you want to follow on countless adventures. Unfortunately she lacks depth and complexity, as do all the other characters.
The book is extremely long-winded. There is far too much that is superfluous to the story. It becomes very tedious reading at times. Perhaps a quarter of the book could be removed, thus streamlining the story and keeping the reader engaged.
There is definite potential here to create a fun series, but its difficult to tell if the book is supposed to have a comedic flavour or if that is purely accidental. The subject of necromancy doesn’t usually conjure up laughs. If its purposeful comedy its not going quite far enough, if its not then it needs to stay away from the prat falls etc that detract from the tension.
I can almost envision it as a dark comedy series on tv. Larry trying to bite everyone and constantly falling or getting stuck, Smythe blithely oblivious to all the dangers with his super positivity, Ree with her teen angst and saviour complex etc.
There is definitely potential here.
I received a complimentary copy from VRO in return for an honest review.
The book is extremely long-winded. There is far too much that is superfluous to the story. It becomes very tedious reading at times. Perhaps a quarter of the book could be removed, thus streamlining the story and keeping the reader engaged.
There is definite potential here to create a fun series, but its difficult to tell if the book is supposed to have a comedic flavour or if that is purely accidental. The subject of necromancy doesn’t usually conjure up laughs. If its purposeful comedy its not going quite far enough, if its not then it needs to stay away from the prat falls etc that detract from the tension.
I can almost envision it as a dark comedy series on tv. Larry trying to bite everyone and constantly falling or getting stuck, Smythe blithely oblivious to all the dangers with his super positivity, Ree with her teen angst and saviour complex etc.
There is definitely potential here.
I received a complimentary copy from VRO in return for an honest review.
May 1, 2024
I had a really good time with this! A couple things that I really liked: loved the interactions between Ree and Smyth, I think their relationship really developed well without getting into YA instalove. I complain a lot about books or trilogies that feel like they could be edited down in half, this is a book that I feel is edited really well, it's a nice self-contained story that in worse hands would have been a trilogy, but really tells a complete narrative and is better for it. Loved the magic, love books that really get into magic as study and theory. Definitely recommend this if the blurb grabs you.
I want an Usther sequel.
4/5 stars
I want an Usther sequel.
4/5 stars
August 11, 2020
This is a very entertaining fantasy adventure with a loveable and diverse cast (especially Usther really grew on me) and a fresh scenario. It has some YA vibes but thankfully only hints at romance, I enjoyed it very much though I'm not really a fan of YA. The ebook is regularly on sale at smashwords so I can only recommend to give it a try if you're looking for a fantasy snack!
May 23, 2021
THIS IS NOT A REVIEW.
I encountered this book at a difficult time in my life. It took me months to finish it, but I'm glad that I didn't let my poor reading habits this year ruin my enjoyment of this fun and unique fantasy story.
Also, I really want to read a sequel to this novel. Even just a short story that picks up with some of the same characters would be dope.
That is all.
I encountered this book at a difficult time in my life. It took me months to finish it, but I'm glad that I didn't let my poor reading habits this year ruin my enjoyment of this fun and unique fantasy story.
Also, I really want to read a sequel to this novel. Even just a short story that picks up with some of the same characters would be dope.
That is all.
featured
September 15, 2025Ree from Books and Bone is asexual!
https://aspeccharactersoftheday.tumbl...
https://aspeccharactersoftheday.tumbl...
December 25, 2023
Once again a reminder how effective of a horror writer Corva can be when they want to. Very much enjoyed this unique and fresh blend of fun, cozy, and heartfelt adventure. Really looking forward to reading the sequel!
dnf
May 21, 2023Really well done as far as I got but a little too YA vibe for me.
July 24, 2022
I'm not gonna lie, I wasn't really on board for the first half, but I'll read anything with necromancy. That's what sold me on the book, obviously, so that's what I went in expecting. Then the story mostly focussed on the only two non-necromancers in the whole society! Bummer!
I really hated Smythe in this first section, so much time spent on how ~living~ he was, how rosy and blah blah. The constant chatter. Aite it's probably cute or something, but I'm gonna be honest, definitely not my cup of tea.
It started to turn for me when Smythe made a particular decision (if you've read it, you know the one,) and it started to shift its focus outward from the smalltown politics to a bigger picture. That absolutely made me all-in. The reveals with the villain suddenly got me real involved. Smythe and Ree's friendship started to feel like it had depth and wasn't as... forced.
Honestly some of the best things in here are in really small details, how much the writing cares about certain tiny revelations, little physical movements, bubbling feelings.
Also Usther. Usther was my favourite in the whole book thanks. (I see there's a sequel novella about her, I am absolutely reading that, if I can get ahold of it.)
There seem to actually be a lot of side novellas about this universe, which makes sense to me, because the "side" characters in this story feel like they have a lot of love put into them as well. I'm actually curious about them, moreso than I really am about Ree. Like, what's up with her dad? I wanna know what made him like he is, a towering pillar of black and cold. How about the mysterious librarian? That one guy who Ree mused about in the crowd during the trial?
Also I very much liked the lich and his, uh, associate. Would read a book just about those two, 100%.
Overall, despite a slow start, I never hated the book and it picked up a lot of steam by the end. At the very least, it didn't feel like a story I've read before, it had a lot of fresh ideas and interesting worldbuilding. And dead things. Very nice.
I really hated Smythe in this first section, so much time spent on how ~living~ he was, how rosy and blah blah. The constant chatter. Aite it's probably cute or something, but I'm gonna be honest, definitely not my cup of tea.
It started to turn for me when Smythe made a particular decision (if you've read it, you know the one,) and it started to shift its focus outward from the smalltown politics to a bigger picture. That absolutely made me all-in. The reveals with the villain suddenly got me real involved. Smythe and Ree's friendship started to feel like it had depth and wasn't as... forced.
Honestly some of the best things in here are in really small details, how much the writing cares about certain tiny revelations, little physical movements, bubbling feelings.
Also Usther. Usther was my favourite in the whole book thanks. (I see there's a sequel novella about her, I am absolutely reading that, if I can get ahold of it.)
There seem to actually be a lot of side novellas about this universe, which makes sense to me, because the "side" characters in this story feel like they have a lot of love put into them as well. I'm actually curious about them, moreso than I really am about Ree. Like, what's up with her dad? I wanna know what made him like he is, a towering pillar of black and cold. How about the mysterious librarian? That one guy who Ree mused about in the crowd during the trial?
Also I very much liked the lich and his, uh, associate. Would read a book just about those two, 100%.
Overall, despite a slow start, I never hated the book and it picked up a lot of steam by the end. At the very least, it didn't feel like a story I've read before, it had a lot of fresh ideas and interesting worldbuilding. And dead things. Very nice.
July 5, 2019
3.5 stars, truthfully, but I've rounded up. I'm not sure that this was the intent of the author, but it strikes me that this would have been a fantastic middle-grade book. It tells a tale full of spooky things like liches, wraiths and minions, all set in a town of necromancers called Tombtown (located in a crypt). The tone is very light-hearted, with characters that I think many middle-grade readers would enjoy: the shambling, dim-witted minion Larry, the pompous and eternally optimistic Smythe, the self-important yet begrudgingly helpful snitch Usther, and of course the protagonist Ree, who has to shrug off the overbearing pressure of her parents to try to find her own way in life.
The story is pretty good, too. I think an argument could be made that a few too many things happen in the story, but it all moves fairly quickly to a dramatic, exciting end.
I think if you wanted to judge this book strictly as a “grown-up book”, you might find it a bit lacking. The characters could do with more depth, and more questions could be raised about the morality of everything going on in the town – there are references to things like cannibalism and bathing in blood which go well beyond “we dig up corpses to perform magic on them”. It is stated that the town has a bit of a laissez-faire, “just don't make a big spectacle out of it” approach to killing, as well as suggesting that it's OK to kill “upworlders” because most of them are adventurers who hate Tombtonians and want to loot all their artefacts anyway, but I feel like these are the kinds of explanations that suit a younger audience.
Overall, don't expect a sophisticated horror/fantasy novel for adults out of this one, but for middle-grade readers (or “middle grade at heart” readers!) with high enthusiasm for everything Halloween, this would be a really good read.
The story is pretty good, too. I think an argument could be made that a few too many things happen in the story, but it all moves fairly quickly to a dramatic, exciting end.
I think if you wanted to judge this book strictly as a “grown-up book”, you might find it a bit lacking. The characters could do with more depth, and more questions could be raised about the morality of everything going on in the town – there are references to things like cannibalism and bathing in blood which go well beyond “we dig up corpses to perform magic on them”. It is stated that the town has a bit of a laissez-faire, “just don't make a big spectacle out of it” approach to killing, as well as suggesting that it's OK to kill “upworlders” because most of them are adventurers who hate Tombtonians and want to loot all their artefacts anyway, but I feel like these are the kinds of explanations that suit a younger audience.
Overall, don't expect a sophisticated horror/fantasy novel for adults out of this one, but for middle-grade readers (or “middle grade at heart” readers!) with high enthusiasm for everything Halloween, this would be a really good read.
May 1, 2019
This book is by far one of the best things I have read in a long time.
Ree as a main character is relateable in ways that heroines never are, and that makes her so much fun to travel through this story with. Her relationships with the people around her grow and develop in such a way that you can almost forget she's not real. It all feels so natural.
Then there's Smythe, bumbling wonderful Smythe. If he isn't making you smile through this whole darn book then you're doing something wrong. He and Larry are simply wonderful and definitely bring their own ups and downs.
Tombtown itself feels so real that I can close my eyes and walk it. Through areas of the book where the action really ramps up the writing is so vivid that I could see it as I read. There is nothing that doesn't feel fleshed out and whole.
If you read nothing else this year, I implore you to read Books & Bone. I for one and eagerly hoping that there might be a second book one day, because I don't want to leave this wonderful thing behind.
Ree as a main character is relateable in ways that heroines never are, and that makes her so much fun to travel through this story with. Her relationships with the people around her grow and develop in such a way that you can almost forget she's not real. It all feels so natural.
Then there's Smythe, bumbling wonderful Smythe. If he isn't making you smile through this whole darn book then you're doing something wrong. He and Larry are simply wonderful and definitely bring their own ups and downs.
Tombtown itself feels so real that I can close my eyes and walk it. Through areas of the book where the action really ramps up the writing is so vivid that I could see it as I read. There is nothing that doesn't feel fleshed out and whole.
If you read nothing else this year, I implore you to read Books & Bone. I for one and eagerly hoping that there might be a second book one day, because I don't want to leave this wonderful thing behind.
June 5, 2020
Well this is a dark little gem of a book with a surprisingly warm hearted story at it's centre. I picked this up on a Tor goth day recommendation and this really is a very gothic book that quite frankly has touches most of us familiar with DnD would love just told from the perspective of the "bad" guys! I particularly enjoyed the sheer power and detached malice of the Liche.
Set in an underground town of Necromancers, Ree the main character rescues a boy from the Liche and somehow manages through a ton of adventures and near death experiences to reawaken the ancient magic of shape shifting! Despite her family and all her peers expecting her to take up the craft. Necromancy is the only magic in town!
The world building and characters are good and there is lots of potential for other lost magics to be discovered in Tomb Town and beyond so I'm looking forward to seeing where this goes next!
Definitely worth picking up if you fancy something a bit unusual set in a world of Necromancers where Larry the Minion is a serious character who doesn't say a word?
Set in an underground town of Necromancers, Ree the main character rescues a boy from the Liche and somehow manages through a ton of adventures and near death experiences to reawaken the ancient magic of shape shifting! Despite her family and all her peers expecting her to take up the craft. Necromancy is the only magic in town!
The world building and characters are good and there is lots of potential for other lost magics to be discovered in Tomb Town and beyond so I'm looking forward to seeing where this goes next!
Definitely worth picking up if you fancy something a bit unusual set in a world of Necromancers where Larry the Minion is a serious character who doesn't say a word?
January 13, 2021
I genuinely don't read a lot of books that look like they have horror elements to them, so this was very not much something I expected to love, but I did, and do. <3
Somehow, she managed to normalize horror, gore, death/undeath, and all kinds of creepy-/sounding/ things through the eyes of a character who you just want to love, and to see loved. I didn't know that that was even possible, but I'm sure glad I she gave it a try! (And somehow succeeded!)
Now I just want to know where Ree goes from here. <3
Edit: I just read this book for the second time yesterday, and it made me smile in all the best ways yet again. <3 (Though Smythe made me roll my eyes like last time too. XD)
Somehow, she managed to normalize horror, gore, death/undeath, and all kinds of creepy-/sounding/ things through the eyes of a character who you just want to love, and to see loved. I didn't know that that was even possible, but I'm sure glad I she gave it a try! (And somehow succeeded!)
Now I just want to know where Ree goes from here. <3
Edit: I just read this book for the second time yesterday, and it made me smile in all the best ways yet again. <3 (Though Smythe made me roll my eyes like last time too. XD)
June 28, 2019
I really loved this book! It had so many elements of what I love to read about. There was the librarian, Ree, whom avoids necromancy like the plague...(no pun intended); there was archeological references, necromancy, undead, magic and the list goes on. I feel the author spent a lot of time researching each of these subjects to make the integration of all subjects seamless. Oh, and I forgot about time-travel. Whew! I would recommend this book to everyone who loves all these genres. I am hoping there will be more adventures of Ree and Smythe.
November 2, 2020
Warning - this is the first book in a series! I am kicking myself for reading it now when the next book isn't due out until next year (2021).
A coming of age story that isn't a "heteronormative teenager must save the world and find true love while doing so" story. There was even a plot twist that surprised me.
I'm entranced by the world building and lore. The characters are three dimensional and fit well in their world. I can't wait to see what happens next.
This is a fast read and fairly light fare. It's comfortable and relaxing to read.
A coming of age story that isn't a "heteronormative teenager must save the world and find true love while doing so" story. There was even a plot twist that surprised me.
I'm entranced by the world building and lore. The characters are three dimensional and fit well in their world. I can't wait to see what happens next.
This is a fast read and fairly light fare. It's comfortable and relaxing to read.
December 25, 2024
I really adored this book! I got it in an itch.io bundle forever ago and just got around to reading it. Between this and Azrael's Stop, I may have to invest in more books from that site! I'm definitely going to check out some of the other books in the series - I am a big fan of the setting and characters.
January 6, 2022
What a wonderful novel! I was delighted from the first chapter; an immensely intriguing setting beautifully brought to life (or undeath!) by V, where even the horrid characters are endearing in their unlikeable-ness, and the plots are gripping and expertly threaded. I am utterly in love with Tombtown and its Denizens!
February 16, 2022
The characters in this story are flawed and yet charming, lovable despite being grouchy or oblivious or sarcastic or standoffish. I kept reading because I wanted to know whether or not they would achieve their goals. I am even still invested in what becomes of Larry. I MUST KNOW.
I found the plot serviceable but not as well-constructed or interesting as the people that populated the story.
I found the plot serviceable but not as well-constructed or interesting as the people that populated the story.
June 14, 2019
I received this book via Voracious Readers Only in exchange for a honest review. I enjoyed this book immensely. It was well written with good character development and just a great read. Once I started reading it was hard to put down. I am anxiously waiting to read the next book!
August 13, 2020
Characters are delightful and engaging, with many flaws. The plot is a roller coaster that tears forward from one disaster to the next, with few pauses. I have some quibbles with the way the narrative is structured, but it's a good book.
May 7, 2019
This book could have been written just for me. Libraries, necromancers. Also it didn't end as I was expecting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2021
A charming tale of friendship, family and necromancy. I did enjoy this book.
November 12, 2021
This book is just incredibly amazing. I really love the way it is written and it contains very nice plot twists.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews