Ordinary Monsters by J.M. Miro
A Captivating and Immersive Read!
I have been in my fantasy era it feels like for most of this year. What caught my attention with this one is the cover; what kept me reading is the story.
Ordinary Monsters by J.M. Miro far exceeded my expectations, and I absolutely loved every page! While it’s a long read, it never felt tedious – in fact, it was a thrilling ride from start to finish. The world-building is rich, the characters are incredibly well-developed, and the supernatural elements kept me hooked throughout.
Set in Victorian-era England, the story follows children with mysterious powers called “Talents,” who are being hunted by a shadowy force. The plot centers on two central characters, Charlie and Marlowe, as they are brought together in a sanctuary for gifted children.
Charlie Ovid is a young boy from Mississippi with a troubled past. He possesses a remarkable Talent that allows him to heal rapidly from any injury, making him nearly invincible. Despite his rough upbringing and the hardships he has faced, Charlie is resilient and determined. His journey is one of self-discovery and learning to trust others, as he navigates the complexities of his abilities and the dangers that come with them.
Marlowe is an enigmatic character with a mysterious background. Found as a baby floating in the Thames, he has the ability to manipulate light, creating illusions and even becoming invisible. Marlowe’s Talent is both a gift and a curse, as it isolates him from others and makes him a target for those who wish to exploit his powers. His character is marked by a sense of loneliness and a longing for belonging, which makes his bond with Charlie and the other children at the sanctuary all the more poignant.
Miro masterfully weaves themes of identity, survival, and the struggle between good and evil. The atmosphere is dark and haunting, and the slow unraveling of the children’s abilities and their purpose in a world that fears them adds incredible depth to the narrative.
The story is dark, mysterious, and filled with twists that kept me guessing, making it impossible to put down. It was so much fun to read, and I was completely immersed in the complex, magical universe. The narration by Ben Onwukwe was fantastic, adding an extra layer of immersion to the experience. I also loved the character of Alice Quicke, the caretaker for the children, whose strength and compassion were truly inspiring.
I can’t wait to dive into book two and continue this unforgettable journey! This was a four star read for me worth every minute.
