I’m always so excited to receive by Illumicrate box through the post. Illumicrate did communicate that the May 2023 box was a late May release, and so they wouldn’t be shipping until the very end of month/the beginning of June.
I was therefore thrilled to receive my Illumicrate May 2023 box in early June and couldn’t wait to find out what was in inside.
What is Illumicrate?
If you’ve not previously heard of Illumicrate, you might be wondering what on earth I’m talking about!
Illumicrate is a popular subscription box service that caters to book lovers across the world. It is a monthly subscription box that delivers curated bookish items and book-related goodies to subscribers. Each box typically includes a newly released young adult or adult fiction fantasy or science fiction book, along with a selection of book-themed items.
The contents of an Illumicrate box can vary, but they often include exclusive editions of books with special features such as signed bookplates, exclusive cover designs, or additional content. In addition to the book, subscribers can expect to find items like bookish merchandise, such as bookmarks, enamel pins, candles, prints, tote bags, and other literary-inspired goodies.
Illumicrate works with authors, publishers, and artists to curate unique and high-quality items that complement the featured book. The subscription service aims to create an immersive and enjoyable reading experience by providing subscribers with a carefully curated package of bookish surprises.
The specific contents of each Illumicrate box vary depending on the month and the theme.
Illumicrate May 2023 Box Opening: Theme
The Illumicrate May 2023 box theme is What Lies Beneath.
“Whilst peering through the darkness, we cannot help but wonder what mysteries lie beneath”.
Illumicrate May 2023 Box Opening: Featured Book
The featured book in the Illumicrate May 2023 box is Witch King by Martha Wells.
Witch King is a standalone adult fantasy novel telling the story of a demon who returns to life after being murdered. He must escape from an elaborate trap and regain his memories. According to Illumicrate, the story is full of found family, intricate worldbuilding, and a bit of humour.
The book is an Illumicrate Exclusive edition and is signed by the author, It also features:
- Stencilled edges by @chattynora
- Foil embossing on the hardback by @chattynora
- Endpaper artwork (different art front and back) by @isabeau_backhaus_art
- Bonus content
I haven’t read the book yet but it really is stunning. Look at the those sprayed edges!
Illumicrate May 2023 Box Opening: Other Items
The accompanying items in the Illumicrate May 2023 box are are inspired by Daughter of Smoke and Bone, House of Hollow, The Whispering Dark and Witch King.
Paper Moth Phone Grip
This phone grip is inspired by The Whispering Dark by Kelly Andrew. It can be used to help secure your phone when you’re holding it but it can also be used on e-readers or smaller tablets too.
Shell Whale Metal Bookmark
I love this bookmark inspired by this month’s featured book, Witch King. I always prefer a metal bookmark and this was is just stunning.
The Halfway Plant Pot
The Halfway Plant Pot was inspired by House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland. I love that it can be used a plant pot but also as indoor storage for anything from pens to accessories.
Hope is Magic Book Organiser
This book organiser is inspired by Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor. This is probably my favourite item in the box. Not only can it be used for books, it could also be used for storing a variety of things. It’s so eye-catching and I just love the quote.
Illumicrate May 2023 Box Opening: Summary
The Illumicrate May 2023 box is another treat full of goodies for book lovers. I’m not sure I would have ordinarily selected Witch King as a book to read which is what I love about these boxes. Illumicrate has introduced me to so many books and authors I wouldn’t necessarily have known about without the subscription.