Ordinary Monsters by J.M. Miro is a historical fantasy novel set in Victorian England, where some people have the ability to manipulate dead cells in strange and fantastic ways. These people are called Talents, and they are hunted by a mysterious figure of darkness, a man made of smoke. The novel follows the adventures of two young Talents, Marlowe and Charlie, who are rescued by two detectives working for a secret institute that gathers and trains other children like them. Along the way, they encounter various dangers, secrets, and mysteries, as well as other Talents with different abilities.
The novel is the first in a planned trilogy, and it introduces a rich and complex world of magic and mystery. The author creates a vivid and atmospheric setting, blending historical details with imaginative elements. The characters are well-developed and diverse, each with their own personality, backstory, and motivation. The plot is fast-paced and engaging, with twists and turns that keep the reader hooked. The novel explores themes such as identity, belonging, difference, and morality, as well as the nature of the monstrous.
The novel has received positive reviews from critics and readers alike, who praised its originality, creativity, and depth. It was nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fantasy in 2022.
In conclusion, Ordinary Monsters by J.M. Miro is a captivating and original novel that will appeal to fans of historical fantasy, dark fantasy, and adventure. It is a novel that combines history and magic in a compelling and inventive way. It is a novel that will make you think about what it means to be human, and what it means to be a monster.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
J.M. Miro is the author of Ordinary Monsters, the first book in The Talents Trilogy, a historical fantasy series set in Victorian England. He is also a poet and novelist who writes under the name Steven Price. He lives in the Pacific Northwest and grew up reading fantasy and speculative fiction. He has a BFA from the University of Victoria Canada. He has also published poetry and fiction in various magazines and journals, such as Popshot Quarterly¹. You can learn more about him and his books on his Goodreads page.
