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A review by plumpaperbacks
So This Is Ever After by F.T. Lukens
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
After reading and loving In Deeper Waters last year, So This is Ever After skyrocketed to the top of my list of most anticipated 2022 reads, and I’m happy to say that it didn’t disappoint. F.T. Lukens is definitely one of my favorite authors; their books are fun, hilarious and delightfully queer.
While I wouldn’t say that I loved this *quite* as much as I love IDW—Tal and Athlen have a special place in my heart—I did still love it. It’s a unique take on the traditional “chosen one” story, where instead of following the heroes on their quest, we see them in the aftermath of it. You know that part of “Long Live” by Taylor Swift?
While I wouldn’t say that I loved this *quite* as much as I love IDW—Tal and Athlen have a special place in my heart—I did still love it. It’s a unique take on the traditional “chosen one” story, where instead of following the heroes on their quest, we see them in the aftermath of it. You know that part of “Long Live” by Taylor Swift?
'Cause for a moment, a band of thieves
In ripped up jeans got to rule the world!
It’s basically the vibe of the whole book. Arek and his friends—a ragtag group of lovable dumbasses—have defeated the big bad guy, and now they’ve accidentally become the kingdom’s new rulers. Though it took me a few chapters to warm up to them, I ended up loving all of them, especially Arek, Matt and Bethany.
I will say, though: if you’re going to read this, know that it’s not the kind of book you take seriously. It’s kind of like reading a romcom in between super intense fantasy books, as a palate cleanser, except it’s a fantasy book too. There’s not really any world-building; it’s mainly just jokes and vibes. It kind of read like a D&D campaign, with different characters classified as rogues, bards, knights, mages, etc.—though I have basically no knowledge of D&D, so… take that with a grain of salt. Honestly, with the way it poked fun at various fantasy tropes and whatnot, it almost felt satirical? But again, take that with a grain of salt. It’s after midnight and I can’t be trusted with big words. My point is that it’s a lighthearted read, and you should treat it as such.
So, ramblings aside, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It made me laugh multiple times, and the characters’ shenanigans were quite entertaining. I’d definitely recommend it, and I’m looking VERY forward to seeing what F.T. Lukens does next!!! <3
Representation
I will say, though: if you’re going to read this, know that it’s not the kind of book you take seriously. It’s kind of like reading a romcom in between super intense fantasy books, as a palate cleanser, except it’s a fantasy book too. There’s not really any world-building; it’s mainly just jokes and vibes. It kind of read like a D&D campaign, with different characters classified as rogues, bards, knights, mages, etc.—though I have basically no knowledge of D&D, so… take that with a grain of salt. Honestly, with the way it poked fun at various fantasy tropes and whatnot, it almost felt satirical? But again, take that with a grain of salt. It’s after midnight and I can’t be trusted with big words. My point is that it’s a lighthearted read, and you should treat it as such.
So, ramblings aside, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It made me laugh multiple times, and the characters’ shenanigans were quite entertaining. I’d definitely recommend it, and I’m looking VERY forward to seeing what F.T. Lukens does next!!! <3
Representation
- bisexual protagonist
- gay love interest
- sapphic side character of color
- polyamorous fat side character
- achillean main couple
- sapphic side couple
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence