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Flappers and False Gods #1
Tenebrium
Tenebrium is a dystopian noir thriller set in a future where the prohibition/Gatsby era has come around again.
The year is 2425, and the jazz age is in full swing—again.
Guys, dolls, gangsters and molls, drugs and prohibition are just the tip of the iceberg for Detective Thea Williams and her mentor Walt as they struggle to solve a horrific series of murders, all the while dealing with the consequences and complications of their not-so-professional relationship.
Embroiled in the case and stymied at every turn by the corrupt District Attorney, who also happens to be her estranged father, Thea quickly discovers a much more sinister plot.
Thrown into a dark world of cults and corruption, Thea must fight for survival lest Tenebrium City eat her alive.
In Tenebrium City, even neon lights cast shadows…
The year is 2425, and the jazz age is in full swing—again.
Guys, dolls, gangsters and molls, drugs and prohibition are just the tip of the iceberg for Detective Thea Williams and her mentor Walt as they struggle to solve a horrific series of murders, all the while dealing with the consequences and complications of their not-so-professional relationship.
Embroiled in the case and stymied at every turn by the corrupt District Attorney, who also happens to be her estranged father, Thea quickly discovers a much more sinister plot.
Thrown into a dark world of cults and corruption, Thea must fight for survival lest Tenebrium City eat her alive.
In Tenebrium City, even neon lights cast shadows…
504 pages, Paperback
Published January 24, 2023
81 people are currently reading
1394 people want to read
About the author
Elanor Miller
3 books67 followersTenebrium is the debut novel from Glasgow-born Scottish author Elanor Miller. Elanor is an avid indoor climber, martial artist, and D&D player. As well as a novelist, she is an award-winning screenwriter, who has won several 'Best Screenplay' awards - many of which were for Tenebrium's first iteration as a screenplay.
Elanor did NOT write the Fairfield Amish Romances, she just shares a name with the author!
Elanor did NOT write the Fairfield Amish Romances, she just shares a name with the author!
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
December 5, 2024
Tenebrium is my debut novel, and I’m very proud of it. It seemed only fair that I give it its first 5 star review. For the readers, I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I loved writing it!
January 23, 2023
Tenebrium is decopunk thriller set in an ocean colony on Earth where we follow the story of Thea and Walt around the year 2425. They are both cops, mentor and mentee, in the TPD (Tenebrium Police Department). Tenebrium is just recovering from a pandamic of Styxx, a very addictive drug that turns people into ghouls (i.e. zombies), when Thea comes on a murder scene of a prostitute with again a variant of Styxx in her body. When she starts investigating, she starts to see that there is a bigger picture where a secret organisation wants to take control of Tenebrium. She and Walt soon find themselves with lesser and lesser friends in their fight against the corrupt authorities.
Tenebrium is fully packed with action and reads like a movie. It contains many story lines that all start connecting nicely along the story. This is a perfect read for fans of Great Gatsby mixed with Total Recall and Altered Carbon, put together with secret organizations, world domination and murders! The futuristic world of Tenebrium is very well developed with many cool gadgets. For me it seems realistic that the world will be like the book describes in 2425, e.g. phone embedded in your ear, people don’t own a car anymore, which I really enjoyed.
For fans of the forbidden romance trope, the story has an affair between Walt & Thea. The characters are all morally grey, which I am here for, specially Walt! You feel that he wants to do the right thing, but he is not always able to. I enjoy character driven stories and I had that feeling from Tenebrium.
Overall an original story full of political intrigue that keeps pages turning! Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
Tenebrium is fully packed with action and reads like a movie. It contains many story lines that all start connecting nicely along the story. This is a perfect read for fans of Great Gatsby mixed with Total Recall and Altered Carbon, put together with secret organizations, world domination and murders! The futuristic world of Tenebrium is very well developed with many cool gadgets. For me it seems realistic that the world will be like the book describes in 2425, e.g. phone embedded in your ear, people don’t own a car anymore, which I really enjoyed.
For fans of the forbidden romance trope, the story has an affair between Walt & Thea. The characters are all morally grey, which I am here for, specially Walt! You feel that he wants to do the right thing, but he is not always able to. I enjoy character driven stories and I had that feeling from Tenebrium.
Overall an original story full of political intrigue that keeps pages turning! Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
May 12, 2023
There are tomes, and there are bricks… TENEBRIUM is a brick. While reading, I vacillated between loving and hating the story, the characters, the setting, the brutal ho hum of it all. It is a book trying to be too many things… science fiction, cyberpunk, police procedural, romance, and noir. The result is pasta that won't stick to the wall. Topping seven hundred pages, it suffers from verbal incontinence. Where a single word might suffice, why not throw in another handful.
I wanted to love this book. The elements described in the sell copy "Tenebrium is a romantic, dystopian, noir detective thriller set in a future where the prohibition/Gatsby era has come around again" seemed to push all the right buttons. Much of the book contains page after page of unbelievable hand to hand combat where the injured walk away to get miraculous medical attention. There is suspension of disbelief, and then there is TENEBRIUM.
Speakeasies where anyone can just walk in, brothels where the sex workers are owned, an addictive drug that turns users into 'ghouls,' sex workers being murdered, and a corporation dabbling in mind control makes for a book that wants to be all things to all readers but falls flat in the execution. The non-linear timeline makes it difficult to know who is doing what and when.
I always find it jarring to find that writers misusing a word. Sometimes it's a homonym, but more often it is not. I can accept creatively made new words whose components make the meaning obvious, but throwing in the wrong word here and there demonstrates a certain ignorance. I find it interesting that the sell copy provides the warning: "This books is written in British English."
The only redeeming value is the kernel of a good story unfortunately contained in a hard shell of poor execution. I read it to the bitter end. I kept hoping it would get better. It didn't.
I wanted to love this book. The elements described in the sell copy "Tenebrium is a romantic, dystopian, noir detective thriller set in a future where the prohibition/Gatsby era has come around again" seemed to push all the right buttons. Much of the book contains page after page of unbelievable hand to hand combat where the injured walk away to get miraculous medical attention. There is suspension of disbelief, and then there is TENEBRIUM.
Speakeasies where anyone can just walk in, brothels where the sex workers are owned, an addictive drug that turns users into 'ghouls,' sex workers being murdered, and a corporation dabbling in mind control makes for a book that wants to be all things to all readers but falls flat in the execution. The non-linear timeline makes it difficult to know who is doing what and when.
I always find it jarring to find that writers misusing a word. Sometimes it's a homonym, but more often it is not. I can accept creatively made new words whose components make the meaning obvious, but throwing in the wrong word here and there demonstrates a certain ignorance. I find it interesting that the sell copy provides the warning: "This books is written in British English."
The only redeeming value is the kernel of a good story unfortunately contained in a hard shell of poor execution. I read it to the bitter end. I kept hoping it would get better. It didn't.
May 15, 2024
Rating 3/5
A (romantic?) dystopian, Roaring-Twenties-esque, noir detective novel?! SIGN ME UP!👀
August 29, 2022
(Advanced Reader Copy Review) -
The world building in ‘Tenebrium’ is fantastic; and within that world, characters rich with layers and complexities. Whether you’re rooting for or against, you absolutely can’t wait to discover what fate befalls each of them. Many aspects of this world feel familiar, as a large metropolitan type city, contrasted in equal measure by opulence and deprivation, power struggles and addiction. However, there’s enough of a futuristic element to ensure you can’t make too many assumptions about how life truly is within Tenebrium, or how things will turn out for our favourites.
A bold debut novel from Miller, who flexes their writing talents. You can tell they’ve poured their heart in to every page of this book. So much so that you can’t help but invest in the story as much as they have.
The world building in ‘Tenebrium’ is fantastic; and within that world, characters rich with layers and complexities. Whether you’re rooting for or against, you absolutely can’t wait to discover what fate befalls each of them. Many aspects of this world feel familiar, as a large metropolitan type city, contrasted in equal measure by opulence and deprivation, power struggles and addiction. However, there’s enough of a futuristic element to ensure you can’t make too many assumptions about how life truly is within Tenebrium, or how things will turn out for our favourites.
A bold debut novel from Miller, who flexes their writing talents. You can tell they’ve poured their heart in to every page of this book. So much so that you can’t help but invest in the story as much as they have.
March 6, 2023
Star rating⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’m not a huge fan of the dystopian trope, but Elanor Miller knocked it out of the park with Tenebrium. I didn’t expect it to be this good and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. It was a slow read, simply because I had to take the time to digest everything. And once the end was near, I simply needed more. She used so many tropes and managed to create a work of art without going overboard. I couldn’t get enough of the world and characters the author created. It was believable and utterly enjoyable. Is there a movie already?
The worldbuilding was written exactly as it should be and what I love about Sci-fi/fantasy. The book had unique elements, a sprinkle of romance and an intriguing plot. I absolutely came to love all the flawed morally gray characters in the end. Their character growth throughout the journey of surviving Tenebrium was terrific and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
I think it would’ve hit me emotionally better, If it was written in first person. However, she did a great job at writing a third-person narrative along with the multiple POVS. And I felt like there were some loose ends, and I wanted closure instead. But I think there is enough material for a sequel which I hope will come someday.
Lastly, I loved the diversity in this book and how the author managed to portray the reality of how most humans behave because of greed and power. Tenebrium kept me on the edge of my seat and I enjoyed every second reading it. I’d recommend it to anyone, even the ones who dislike the dystopian trope.
Spice rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’m not a huge fan of the dystopian trope, but Elanor Miller knocked it out of the park with Tenebrium. I didn’t expect it to be this good and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. It was a slow read, simply because I had to take the time to digest everything. And once the end was near, I simply needed more. She used so many tropes and managed to create a work of art without going overboard. I couldn’t get enough of the world and characters the author created. It was believable and utterly enjoyable. Is there a movie already?
The worldbuilding was written exactly as it should be and what I love about Sci-fi/fantasy. The book had unique elements, a sprinkle of romance and an intriguing plot. I absolutely came to love all the flawed morally gray characters in the end. Their character growth throughout the journey of surviving Tenebrium was terrific and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
I think it would’ve hit me emotionally better, If it was written in first person. However, she did a great job at writing a third-person narrative along with the multiple POVS. And I felt like there were some loose ends, and I wanted closure instead. But I think there is enough material for a sequel which I hope will come someday.
Lastly, I loved the diversity in this book and how the author managed to portray the reality of how most humans behave because of greed and power. Tenebrium kept me on the edge of my seat and I enjoyed every second reading it. I’d recommend it to anyone, even the ones who dislike the dystopian trope.
September 28, 2022
Advance Reader Copy review-
I need this book to be made into a show ASAP. Thea is amazing and deserves the best for all the shit she puts up with. This book was a roller coaster and the characters! I love how flawed they all are and how you got to see a bit from everyone’s POV. Thank you for letting me read this early it was positively wonderful and I hope to see more of this world!
I need this book to be made into a show ASAP. Thea is amazing and deserves the best for all the shit she puts up with. This book was a roller coaster and the characters! I love how flawed they all are and how you got to see a bit from everyone’s POV. Thank you for letting me read this early it was positively wonderful and I hope to see more of this world!
November 30, 2022
ADVANCED READER COPY REVIEW —
Tenebrium is a dystopian noir thriller that brings new life to the prohibition era, and it’s Elanor Millers debut novel. And I have to say, she killed it! It’s definitely something that’s outside the normal for me to read but the Gatsby vibe sucked me right in. And I mean, come on; look that that STUNNING cover!
Crooked cops, corrupt politicians, secrecy legions; there’s so many different elements in this book that you can’t turn the pages fast enough. And the attention to detail! You read a few chapters (shorter chapters, perfection and much appreciated), and then you come across a police report or communication between other officers. I loved that touch and the extra thought and effort that had to go into that? Incredible.
I recommend checking out Elanor Millers Instagram or Facebook pages, there have been some great post of the characters you meet in this book.
Tenebrium is out JANUARY 24, 2023 - make sure add this to your list!
Tenebrium is a dystopian noir thriller that brings new life to the prohibition era, and it’s Elanor Millers debut novel. And I have to say, she killed it! It’s definitely something that’s outside the normal for me to read but the Gatsby vibe sucked me right in. And I mean, come on; look that that STUNNING cover!
Crooked cops, corrupt politicians, secrecy legions; there’s so many different elements in this book that you can’t turn the pages fast enough. And the attention to detail! You read a few chapters (shorter chapters, perfection and much appreciated), and then you come across a police report or communication between other officers. I loved that touch and the extra thought and effort that had to go into that? Incredible.
I recommend checking out Elanor Millers Instagram or Facebook pages, there have been some great post of the characters you meet in this book.
Tenebrium is out JANUARY 24, 2023 - make sure add this to your list!
September 16, 2022
4.5 stars!!!
Absolutely adore the cover of this book - beautiful and elegant.
The world building is fantastic, it feels easy to picture the city in your mind.
The characters are so interesting and you effortlessly get sucked into their stories!
Torrez was by far my favourite!!!
Loads of twists and turns and this was definitely one of those books you find yourself reading late into the night and losing track of time.
I couldn’t give this one a definitive genre as there are so many elements to it that overlaps many genres, but cannot wait to read more from this fabulous author!
Absolutely adore the cover of this book - beautiful and elegant.
The world building is fantastic, it feels easy to picture the city in your mind.
The characters are so interesting and you effortlessly get sucked into their stories!
Torrez was by far my favourite!!!
Loads of twists and turns and this was definitely one of those books you find yourself reading late into the night and losing track of time.
I couldn’t give this one a definitive genre as there are so many elements to it that overlaps many genres, but cannot wait to read more from this fabulous author!
August 28, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an early ARC copy of Tenebrium and loved it! I’m not usually one for reviews but I absolutely devoured this novel. It kept me engrossed start to finish. The plot is brilliant, but the character, oh the characters! I can’t decide who I loved more. Walt is troubled but so relatable, Thea is badass, and Torrez is just fun to be around. I hope there is another one soon, I’ve not gotten enough of this yet!
January 30, 2023
Oh my friggin God!
What is there to say? Well I have lots to say! I love the style of writing! Every page has me on the end of seat and every word I read it just made me want to keep reading. The writing was phenomenal and I will recommend this book to many people! I hope to read more stories by you. I will keep an eye out! It was amazing! I am not usually speechless but I don't know what else to say, except keep up the great work! You are an amazing author!
What is there to say? Well I have lots to say! I love the style of writing! Every page has me on the end of seat and every word I read it just made me want to keep reading. The writing was phenomenal and I will recommend this book to many people! I hope to read more stories by you. I will keep an eye out! It was amazing! I am not usually speechless but I don't know what else to say, except keep up the great work! You are an amazing author!
January 25, 2023
This wasn’t my normal go-to genre to read but I found myself completely immersed! Where I did love The Great Gatsby, which my literary fiction heart from English classes of course, this book called to me for that reason. It’s written scene by scene (short chapters) which is very intriguing and makes you feel like you are living the story. With a lot of action and a forbidden romance going on, Tenebrium definitely makes it worth your while. Next to the interesting morally grey characters, there is the fight against the Gold Legion, a secret organisation that wants to take power of Tenebrium.
I highly recommend this book for science fiction fans looking for a thrilling experience.
I highly recommend this book for science fiction fans looking for a thrilling experience.
March 10, 2023
Simply wonderful. Well, not simply. Quite complex actually. I truly felt like I was living in Tenebrium when reading it. The way everything is described feels so real and so spectacular. Having it be set in the future yet with that 20s vibe is unlike anything I have read. Although this review may not be elegant, the book sure is. A must read.
January 18, 2023
Plot: Detective Thea Williams and her mentor/former lover Walt dig deeper into a series of murders of sex workers that seem to link to a deeper darkness within Tenebrium City. Hitting roadblocks at every turn, especially from the corrupt District Attorney, also known as Thea’s estranged father, Thea and Walt find themselves in dangerous positions against a quietly powerful group vying for control of the city. What will they have to sacrifice to fight for justice and keep the people of Tenebrium safe?
Characters: Loved the large and diverse cast of characters with varying races and sexualities. Thea and Walt are flawed and human, very well-developed and textured. Even side characters have depth and nuance. The multi POV is perfectly executed, sharing information at the exact right time from the right lens.
Setting: Set in Tenebrium City, a dystopian city in the future, I could feel, smell, taste, see, and hear the streets, apartments, office buildings and other locations where our characters were adventuring.
Conflict/Resolution: Readers are slammed directly into the tension and off to a running start. Holy interwoven storylines and breadcrumbs of clues steering readers through this page-turning thriller. Tenebrium is an exhilarating, high-stakes thriller from start to finish.
Writing: The way I clung to every word *chefs kiss*. Beautifully descriptive prose without bogging down readers, this is a textbook example of strong fiction writing and show don’t tell. While this book is thick, it is rich with character, setting, and plot details placing readers in Thea and Walt’s slice of Tenebrium. Elanor Miller effortlessly evokes emotions out of readers. Even the dialogue is realistic and flawlessly executed.
Other notes: A huge thank you to Elanor Miller for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This was one of my favorite books of 2022, as well as a favorite of all time. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Characters: Loved the large and diverse cast of characters with varying races and sexualities. Thea and Walt are flawed and human, very well-developed and textured. Even side characters have depth and nuance. The multi POV is perfectly executed, sharing information at the exact right time from the right lens.
Setting: Set in Tenebrium City, a dystopian city in the future, I could feel, smell, taste, see, and hear the streets, apartments, office buildings and other locations where our characters were adventuring.
Conflict/Resolution: Readers are slammed directly into the tension and off to a running start. Holy interwoven storylines and breadcrumbs of clues steering readers through this page-turning thriller. Tenebrium is an exhilarating, high-stakes thriller from start to finish.
Writing: The way I clung to every word *chefs kiss*. Beautifully descriptive prose without bogging down readers, this is a textbook example of strong fiction writing and show don’t tell. While this book is thick, it is rich with character, setting, and plot details placing readers in Thea and Walt’s slice of Tenebrium. Elanor Miller effortlessly evokes emotions out of readers. Even the dialogue is realistic and flawlessly executed.
Other notes: A huge thank you to Elanor Miller for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This was one of my favorite books of 2022, as well as a favorite of all time. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
September 8, 2022
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an advanced reader copy of this book - well before it's official release date of January 24th 2023...let's just say I cannot wait to get a hard copy on that day.
Not only is the art deco book cover incredibly eye catching, immediately drawing you in...it delivers on what it promises. This story is stylish, sophisticated and polished.
The world of Tenebrium is so alluring...you'd want to visit it, but you sure as hell would not want to live there. The city itself is a character on it's own and Miller is so detailed in her description and eloquent in her vocabulary you can *see the world she has created so clearly - it's a spectacle.
The inclusion of the Gatsby-era is not only clever and stylish - but it sets it apart from other dystopian novels and gives it an elegance in it's own right. Someone working for Netflix is bound to pick this up!
Living in this world are the two main characters, Thea & Walt who have, shall we say, a tempestuous relationship - they are the main drive of the story and although they do indeed share an 'on again' 'off-again' relationship, they are characters in their own right.
Miller does a very good job of conveying and addressing the toxicity of their relationship through her dialogue and sense of atmosphere; there is one moment (I won't spoil it) where there is a small gesture between these individuals that encapsulates their whole relationship...it is so simple, yet so effective. I love it.
The story is soaked and rich in these 'little moments' (my bread and butter) and it's not exclusively for the characters that share a sexual relationship. Thea shares a platonic relationship with Torrez, a fellow colleague who honestly I think I fell in love with; the subtlety and authenticity of his character effortlessly elevated from the page. And that's another thing that's done with ease; these characters are not out to please, they feel real. They are complex individuals and every one is diverse, has their own unique voice, experiences and responses to the extremities of the novel and circumstances of their lives.
I could go on forever...I think this is my latest obsession.
For a debut novel, I am extremely impressed and cannot wait to see more of Elanor Miller's work. I just hope she revisits the world of Tenebrium - as I want to delve even deeper into this world - there is so much scope. I would love a prequel.
Not only is the art deco book cover incredibly eye catching, immediately drawing you in...it delivers on what it promises. This story is stylish, sophisticated and polished.
The world of Tenebrium is so alluring...you'd want to visit it, but you sure as hell would not want to live there. The city itself is a character on it's own and Miller is so detailed in her description and eloquent in her vocabulary you can *see the world she has created so clearly - it's a spectacle.
The inclusion of the Gatsby-era is not only clever and stylish - but it sets it apart from other dystopian novels and gives it an elegance in it's own right. Someone working for Netflix is bound to pick this up!
Living in this world are the two main characters, Thea & Walt who have, shall we say, a tempestuous relationship - they are the main drive of the story and although they do indeed share an 'on again' 'off-again' relationship, they are characters in their own right.
Miller does a very good job of conveying and addressing the toxicity of their relationship through her dialogue and sense of atmosphere; there is one moment (I won't spoil it) where there is a small gesture between these individuals that encapsulates their whole relationship...it is so simple, yet so effective. I love it.
The story is soaked and rich in these 'little moments' (my bread and butter) and it's not exclusively for the characters that share a sexual relationship. Thea shares a platonic relationship with Torrez, a fellow colleague who honestly I think I fell in love with; the subtlety and authenticity of his character effortlessly elevated from the page. And that's another thing that's done with ease; these characters are not out to please, they feel real. They are complex individuals and every one is diverse, has their own unique voice, experiences and responses to the extremities of the novel and circumstances of their lives.
I could go on forever...I think this is my latest obsession.
For a debut novel, I am extremely impressed and cannot wait to see more of Elanor Miller's work. I just hope she revisits the world of Tenebrium - as I want to delve even deeper into this world - there is so much scope. I would love a prequel.
October 7, 2022
4.5 stars. The world building in the beginning is a lot. But the author does a brilliant job of intertwining the lives of these characters. I love character driven books and this one definitely hit that mark.
The author does a wonderful job of keeping you invested in each character and the second half of this book is an absolute page turner. Tenebrium fits into so many genres that it is hard to classify, but worth the read- nonetheless.
The author does a wonderful job of keeping you invested in each character and the second half of this book is an absolute page turner. Tenebrium fits into so many genres that it is hard to classify, but worth the read- nonetheless.
September 3, 2022
Thank you to the author, Elanor Miller, for an advanced copy of her debut novel in exchange for an honest review.
Where do I even start?! This novel is electric! Set in the far off future where the Gatsby era is alive and kicking again, this noir crime story has something for everyone. A little mystery, crime, thrills, sci-fi and tech, and even a slight historical fiction vibe with the roaring 20s. Set in the crime and drug filled city of Tenebrium, Thea, Walt, and Torres battle for what’s right while dealing with their own flawed personal issues. The world building here is phenomenal and Miller’s ability to immerse you into the scene is unreal.
One of the best debuts I’ve ever read, don’t sleep on this one!
Where do I even start?! This novel is electric! Set in the far off future where the Gatsby era is alive and kicking again, this noir crime story has something for everyone. A little mystery, crime, thrills, sci-fi and tech, and even a slight historical fiction vibe with the roaring 20s. Set in the crime and drug filled city of Tenebrium, Thea, Walt, and Torres battle for what’s right while dealing with their own flawed personal issues. The world building here is phenomenal and Miller’s ability to immerse you into the scene is unreal.
One of the best debuts I’ve ever read, don’t sleep on this one!
August 29, 2022
Advance Reader Copy Review:
Tenebrium is an engrossing read that not only hits a lot of genre's, but manages to blend them all masterfully to create a unique world that's easy to immerse yourself in.
Set in the titular city of Tenebrium, we primarily follow the stories of Detective Thea Williams, and Walter James as they navigate the seedy underbelly of this grim-dark city to unravel conspiracies with far reaching consequences.
The setting itself is a Noir-esque, roaring 20's style city but flung far in the future. The style is instantly recognisable and helps put a familiar reference to the futuristic tech and Sci Fi elements and is a breath of fresh air for the genre. It's easy to immerse yourself, and let your imagination run wild as the characters navigate the city.
The characters themselves are complex and well rounded. Tenebrium is a dark world, and our characters are flawed, raw and tainted by the corrupt nature of the world. It's engrossing to see characters try so hard to remain stalwart and just, in a world that is up against them. Characters feel real, shaped by their experiences and their world and go through transformative arcs that are the real driving force of this novel.
Tenebrium is for readers who love to get immersed in living breathing world's, with realistic, human characters that are constantly fighting not only for their survival but for their beliefs and morals.
Tenebrium is an engrossing read that not only hits a lot of genre's, but manages to blend them all masterfully to create a unique world that's easy to immerse yourself in.
Set in the titular city of Tenebrium, we primarily follow the stories of Detective Thea Williams, and Walter James as they navigate the seedy underbelly of this grim-dark city to unravel conspiracies with far reaching consequences.
The setting itself is a Noir-esque, roaring 20's style city but flung far in the future. The style is instantly recognisable and helps put a familiar reference to the futuristic tech and Sci Fi elements and is a breath of fresh air for the genre. It's easy to immerse yourself, and let your imagination run wild as the characters navigate the city.
The characters themselves are complex and well rounded. Tenebrium is a dark world, and our characters are flawed, raw and tainted by the corrupt nature of the world. It's engrossing to see characters try so hard to remain stalwart and just, in a world that is up against them. Characters feel real, shaped by their experiences and their world and go through transformative arcs that are the real driving force of this novel.
Tenebrium is for readers who love to get immersed in living breathing world's, with realistic, human characters that are constantly fighting not only for their survival but for their beliefs and morals.
June 23, 2023
I really liked this book. Tenebrium was a journey and what a journey it was!
First off, I absolutely adored the setting and feeling of this book. The roaring 20s but set in the future was such a fantastic blend and I was all the way here for it. It reminded me a lot of the movie The Fifth Element, but mixed with the video game L.A. Noir. I loved that it had that noir detective element with the futuristic tech and world.
Secondly, there was LGBTQIA+ representation in this book and it felt very natural and not forced or disrespectful. It was part of the story without becoming the focus of the story and since that wasn’t meant to be the focus of the story, I appreciated this personally.
The characters were very real. I didn’t like every one. Every character made choices that played a role in the events that take place and they have to live with those choices and the consequences. My heart broke for some of them, I was angry with some of them, and I was anxious for some of them. I loved that they felt human; they were messy, flawed, and relatable.
The political aspect of this book was also so real. The concepts and themes are applicable across all of human history and they will be there long into the future. I liked that I felt like I could follow and understand what was happening while also feeling removed from it due to its timeline.
This was very well written and I enjoyed every twist and turn.
First off, I absolutely adored the setting and feeling of this book. The roaring 20s but set in the future was such a fantastic blend and I was all the way here for it. It reminded me a lot of the movie The Fifth Element, but mixed with the video game L.A. Noir. I loved that it had that noir detective element with the futuristic tech and world.
Secondly, there was LGBTQIA+ representation in this book and it felt very natural and not forced or disrespectful. It was part of the story without becoming the focus of the story and since that wasn’t meant to be the focus of the story, I appreciated this personally.
The characters were very real. I didn’t like every one. Every character made choices that played a role in the events that take place and they have to live with those choices and the consequences. My heart broke for some of them, I was angry with some of them, and I was anxious for some of them. I loved that they felt human; they were messy, flawed, and relatable.
The political aspect of this book was also so real. The concepts and themes are applicable across all of human history and they will be there long into the future. I liked that I felt like I could follow and understand what was happening while also feeling removed from it due to its timeline.
This was very well written and I enjoyed every twist and turn.
November 27, 2022
Advanced reader copy (but views are my own) -
Just wow. If NCIS and a dystopian universe had a baby - this would be it. From the first page, the world building was incredible. Set in the future in a New York style world, filled with good/bad cops, legions, drugs and an Amsterdam style underworld - this book truly brings a new name for dystopian novels.
Having a POV from each character allows you to understand each perspective and really feel their journey. Thea is also a BAD ASS, that deserves pure happiness!
Overall, I loved this book. If you love NCIS, bugsy malone, the great gasby and dystopian novels - this is for you.
Thank you so much for letting me read this!
Just wow. If NCIS and a dystopian universe had a baby - this would be it. From the first page, the world building was incredible. Set in the future in a New York style world, filled with good/bad cops, legions, drugs and an Amsterdam style underworld - this book truly brings a new name for dystopian novels.
Having a POV from each character allows you to understand each perspective and really feel their journey. Thea is also a BAD ASS, that deserves pure happiness!
Overall, I loved this book. If you love NCIS, bugsy malone, the great gasby and dystopian novels - this is for you.
Thank you so much for letting me read this!
August 7, 2023
In the far distant future, in a city of vice called Tenebrium, a government corrupted by an underground sect of elitists sets a coup into motion. Detective Thea Williams and her partner (who also happens to be her elicit lover) Walter James are seemingly the only people willing and able to stop it.
A thrilling noir crime drama, this was an utterly original read. Rich in plot, a strong cast of characters, excellent pacing, I can't really find any fault with it at all and am super excited for its follow-up, Caligo.
A thrilling noir crime drama, this was an utterly original read. Rich in plot, a strong cast of characters, excellent pacing, I can't really find any fault with it at all and am super excited for its follow-up, Caligo.
July 10, 2023
I finished Tenebrium yesterday! Wow what a read and something different from usual reads. This book felt long, halfway through I felt wow so much story has already been given, and it just became deeper. I loved the flawed characters who I hated then rooted for. I commented the author's post that I could absolutely see this being an Amazon prime or other network TV series! Also she announced book 2 is in the works.
July 12, 2023
4.5 YES! Dystopian roaring 20s and LGBTQ rep! The future tech with Walter and Detective Thea as they dig up and through city conspiracies! Had me HOOKED. All of the characters were so relatable.. not cookie cutter perfect but flawed and genuine. In a world built like you could see it in front of you!
June 6, 2024
✨𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝑻𝒐𝒖𝒓✨
📖: Tenebrium (Flappers and False Gods #1)
💻: Available on Amazon and fre€ in Kindle Unlimited!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫
Tenebrium Police Department Detective Thea Williams and her partner Walt have a tumultuous and complicated relationship following a sordid affair. Tasked to solve a string of gruesome murders, they learn the murders may be part of a greater conspiracy rooted in the highest points of power, including the District Attorney, who happens to be Thea’s father.
Political instability, sinister secrets, and ghosts of their pasts may destroy Tenebrium City and their last thread of hope…
Tropes:
🏢 Dystopian
🚬 Noir
🕵️♀️ Detective Thriller
🍸 Set in a futuristic Gatsby era
🎷Jazz
👥 Cults
🔫 Mobsters
💔 Forbidden Romance
My immediate thoughts after finishing this book: WOW! 🤯 . This story takes place in the future where Prohibition is reinstated and greed, power, and corruption plagues society. I loved the Gatsby x Blade Runner x Altered Carbon vibes and was blown away by the masterful incorporation of media communications, multiple narratives, and different timelines.
The character development is rich and meticulous. The city of Tenebrium is very much a central character in this story but I am completely smitten by our heroine Thea. She’s impulsive, courageous, and forgiving to a fault. Her mentor/ex-lover Walt is a conflicted and broken tortured hero seeking redemption while riddled with guilt. All of the characters toe the line of morality and the author fully explores their motivations and loyalties in their story arcs.
Gripping, immersive, and suspenseful, Tenebrium is a sensational decopunk thriller debut. I cannot wait to read Caligo, the next book in the Flappers and False Gods series!
Thank you to the author and RR Book Tours for the opportunity to review this ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
November 25, 2022
ARC REVIEW
A dazzling debut novel that will live rent free in your head for some time after you have closed the last, exhilarating page.
With a breath-taking world and rich, descriptive prose, Tenebrium takes you on a journey through society and through the human spirit, turning it and us inside out and facing us with our innards in the process.
This isn't a short book but you don't notice that at all. This book covers some stonking topics both in the domestic sphere and the wider society -- and you won't be able to look away from this inspiring social commentary. From climate change to corruption to trafficking and rights for sex workers, Miller doesn't shy away from any of these important topics and shows how everything is connected the bottom to the top of the social hierarchy.
The story is also highly inclusive, including normalised pronoun diversity, and a large, diverse cast. Characters are flawed and authentic, with believable and satisfying character arcs. Their stories weave into a twisty plot that keeps you guessing all the way through, played out in scenes with a cinematic quality that play out vividly in your mind.
Just for the record. I was firmly #TeamThea
There are multiple trigger warnings to consider including: Abuse, murder, addiction, torture, affairs, substance abuse, forced prostitution, mutilation
A dazzling debut novel that will live rent free in your head for some time after you have closed the last, exhilarating page.
With a breath-taking world and rich, descriptive prose, Tenebrium takes you on a journey through society and through the human spirit, turning it and us inside out and facing us with our innards in the process.
This isn't a short book but you don't notice that at all. This book covers some stonking topics both in the domestic sphere and the wider society -- and you won't be able to look away from this inspiring social commentary. From climate change to corruption to trafficking and rights for sex workers, Miller doesn't shy away from any of these important topics and shows how everything is connected the bottom to the top of the social hierarchy.
The story is also highly inclusive, including normalised pronoun diversity, and a large, diverse cast. Characters are flawed and authentic, with believable and satisfying character arcs. Their stories weave into a twisty plot that keeps you guessing all the way through, played out in scenes with a cinematic quality that play out vividly in your mind.
Just for the record. I was firmly #TeamThea
There are multiple trigger warnings to consider including: Abuse, murder, addiction, torture, affairs, substance abuse, forced prostitution, mutilation
March 26, 2023
Oh my what an amazing ride that was but firstly this cover is everything, I first saw it whilst scrolling through Facebook and knew I just had to read the book!
I waited for the hardcover versions to be back in stock on Amazon and found out after that the paperback is the beautiful floppy type, there is also an audio version coming out soon which I am excited for.
I cannot believe that this is book is a debut for this author! it is so good, clearly well written and researched and the world building is amazing, I felt fully immersed in the Dystopian, corrupt Tenebrium City. The character relationships were so complex and had me feeling all manner of emotions particularly relating to Thea & Walt.
The pace of the book was just right, it was engaging from the start and it wrapped up nicely at the end! The chapters are lovely and short too which I Love, love love. I could see this making a great film or series, I cannot wait for more books by this author.
Get it on your TBR 😊
I waited for the hardcover versions to be back in stock on Amazon and found out after that the paperback is the beautiful floppy type, there is also an audio version coming out soon which I am excited for.
I cannot believe that this is book is a debut for this author! it is so good, clearly well written and researched and the world building is amazing, I felt fully immersed in the Dystopian, corrupt Tenebrium City. The character relationships were so complex and had me feeling all manner of emotions particularly relating to Thea & Walt.
The pace of the book was just right, it was engaging from the start and it wrapped up nicely at the end! The chapters are lovely and short too which I Love, love love. I could see this making a great film or series, I cannot wait for more books by this author.
Get it on your TBR 😊
August 29, 2022
ARC Review: i was given my ARC copy on saturaday night. it's now monday morning. the book is 500 pages, which should tell you something about how much i enjoyed it! idk where to begin with this one the twists and turns of the plot kept me on the edge of my seat! tenebrium city itself it a vibrant yet dark world filled with danger and corruption, no one is safe and everyone has a price. you can't not root for the characters as they struggle to do whats right (and often fail). thea and walt are a textbook complicated you should have know better romance but every second they are on the same page is electric. the writing here is soooo good too. i didn't know what to expect from an ARC but tenebrium smashed all my expectations.
September 27, 2023
Decopunk was an entirely new genre for me. Imagine The Great Gatsby but in the year 2425. The world-building is rich but it’s not difficult to understand, nor does it take pages of info-dumping to set the scene. Instead, the plot is action-packed and reads like a movie, though is still set out as traditional prose. The chapters are short, like scenes from movies but still pack plenty packed into them. I loved the forbidden romance element and this was played out well alongside the main plot of uncovering the corruption in Tenebrium. Definitely a stand out-novel. I would assume Elanor Miller had been writing for years, rather than this being her debut novel!
November 3, 2022
Holy moly, storyline for the win! What a world! New! Advanced! Inventive! Mysterious! And still built on what we are used to - good vs evil. It’s soooo good! Built with many layers but written where it reads so easy. I cannot wait to get a hard copy of this book. And hope that one of those book services picks it up and does cool artwork with the edges and stuff. You guys will absolutely feast on this one but get ready for a ride and a half! I knew from the cover alone the author had to have something special inside and my gut did not deceive me! Excellent book!
May 30, 2024
This book was jam-packed with action.
The world building and characters were complex and very rich. It had so many different layers, and it came together really nicely.
It had a multi POV, which really helped me understand each character, really gave me great perspective on their journey and growth.
I loved the settings of this book, the dystopian world in a 20's style, but set in the future, it was definitely giving off great gatsby vibes.
I seriously can't believe this is a debut novel. Hats off to the author. This was a really great read, and I can't wait to read more
The world building and characters were complex and very rich. It had so many different layers, and it came together really nicely.
It had a multi POV, which really helped me understand each character, really gave me great perspective on their journey and growth.
I loved the settings of this book, the dystopian world in a 20's style, but set in the future, it was definitely giving off great gatsby vibes.
I seriously can't believe this is a debut novel. Hats off to the author. This was a really great read, and I can't wait to read more
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