The January 2022 Illumicrate book box is called “Royal Secrets”. Isn’t that the most delightful name <3 I immediately knew this box was going to be a winner and it sure was!
About Illumicrate
Illumicrate is one of the best known UK book boxes that ship internationally. They offer both a full box and a book-only subscription, and the books they feature are generally YA fantasy, but they also include other genres and adult books. Next to their monthly subscription, they also have special edition boxes, and exclusive editions.
The teaser
This is the info we received upfront:
- YA fantasy, first in a series
- Persian inspired world, written by a Persian author
- F/M relationship between main characters
- Content warning: neglect, abuse, parental death, strong feelings of isolation, grief and loneliness, off-page child sacrifices, presence of blood and injuries
Furthermore, Illumicrate communicated early on that this box would not contain one, but two novels!
The goodies
The first item I found was a puzzle inspired by We Hunt the Flame, with artwork by Lesya Blackbird and designed by Chattynora. A perfect combination of two of my favourite things: this marvelous duology by Hafsah Faizal (my review of part 1 can be found here) and a puzzle. Love it!
Next, I discovered white fluffy socks inspired by The Priory of the Orange Tree, designed by Alicia Ramos Castillo. I really like warm socks, however, these do not seem very practical because of their colour. When I wear this kind of socks, I don’t tend to wear slippers…I’m not nearly neat enough to say white socks would be a great idea in those circumstances…
I’m not sure why book boxes keep making the third included item. Who uses phone holders? That’s something my parents would have used in the 00’s…. This one is inspired by The Prison Healer and designed by No0neDesigns.
Last but not least, I found a spinning pendant with artwork by Joanne Palmer and inspired by The Never Tilting World. I wasn’t convinced at first, because I’m not into spinning necklaces, but I have to say wearing it for the Illumicrate Photo challenge quickly changed my mind. The Day/Night design is beautifully done and it looks quite nice when wearing it!
The books
The main featured book is without a doubt, one of the most stunning editions I’ve ever seen. It’s This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi. The Illumicrate edition is an entirely redesigned naked hardback, and has a cover with foil detailing, digitally printed edges, and it’s signed. I simply loved this book. My review is already available on my blog!
What’s better than one book? Why, two books, of course! If there’s one thing I love then it’s book boxes including another book instead of extra goodies. The second book is a paperback edition of The Ivory Key, the debut of Akshaya Raman. This book is an epic YA fantasy in which magic is considered a valuable resource that holds the peace. But when it runs out, four royal siblings need to join forces to find another source to protect their country. This book is the first in an Indian-inspired duology. The Illumicrate edition has an exclusive cover, sprayed edges and a digital signature. I liked this book a great deal as well! Check out my review here.