Title: Strange Bedfellows
Author: Ariel Slamet Ries
Publisher: HarperAlley
Publication date: March 4, 2025
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop | Goodreads | StoryGraph
Summary
In the near future, humanity is living on a planet called Meridian, a place where you’re likely to be born with superpowers. But Oberon wasn’t one of the lucky ones. Ever since his pretty public breakdown, he feels like he can’t get control of his life. When he suddenly has the ability to conjure his dreams into reality, things start to get really complicated.
One of the things Oberon conjures is his high school crush, Kon, who mysteriously disappeared three years ago. As the two work together to get a hold on Oberon’s powers, things start to spiral into chaos, especially as Oberon starts to fall for Kon. Will he be able to get control before it’s too late?
Review: Strange Bedfellows
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperAlley for an advanced copy of Strange Bedfellows by Ariel Slamet Ries to review! The cover is definitely what drew me in to this one, and the art inside is just as stunning. I’ve loved Ries’ art in everything I’ve read from them so far, so I’m not surprised that I loved this.
The story and the characters match the artwork in quality. There is so much emotional tension in this, and the exploration of mental health is so well done. Both Oberon and Kon are dealing with their own struggles, from panic attacks to anxiety to depression. The unfolding of Kon’s story is extremely well done, and is so heartbreaking.
This is a wonderfully layered story with absolutely gorgeous artwork. If you like sci-fi stories that are character forward, definitely check this one out in March!
5/5 stars
Leave a Reply