Illumicrate is a UK based fantasy and science fiction book box that has monthly boxes or just a monthly book only subscription. Each box also includes a selection of bookish goodies some more practical, others more decorative set around a monthly theme. December’s theme is Better Together.

The items included in this box are a mug inspired by the Song of Achilles, a 2023 desk calendar featuring couples from different series, a jewelry case inspired by House of Earth and Blood, and a chain pin set inspired by the Jasmine Throne.

Illumicrate, like other book boxes, include a new hard cover each month and most months a letter from the author. This months book is The Red Scholar’s Wake by Aliette De Bodard. I have read some of Aliette De Bodard’s other works and loved them so I have a feeling that I will enjoy this book. The story follows Xich Si who is a scavenger whos ship has been captured by the Red Banner pirate fleet. Rice Fish the leader of the pirate fleet, who is a sentient ship, proposes an arranged marriage between Xich and herself as Rice Fish needs help who killed her wife, the Red Scholar. While an odd premise De Bodard’s work is generally well written and makes the characters easy to connect to. This edition of the book has an exclusive cover, sprayed edges, and foiling on the hardback.

January’s theme is Journey’s End.