The Best Urban Fantasy You Haven’t Read Yet - Curious Physiologies review

Minotaurs on the Jubilee Line? Why 'Curious Physiologies' is My New Obsession

Have you ever had one of those weeks where you’ve successfully torched your own life?

Meet Hannah Chadwick. She’s a nurse, an expert at self-sabotage, and is currently standing at the edge of her last lifeline. When she rips a mysterious flyer off a wall, she isn't just looking for a job—she’s stepping into the hidden veins of London.

I’ve just finished an ARC of Curious Physiologies (LineFolk of London #1) by Jay Neill, and frankly? I’m still emotionally recovering. Read on for my Curious Physiologies ARC review.

A Medical Twist in the Shadows

The premise is delicious: a secret clinic for "LineFolk"—mythical creatures living in the shadows of the London Underground. Watching Hannah navigate the shock of her first patient (spoiler: it’s a Minotaur!) was a highlight. Her internal battle between her professional nursing duty and her sheer, "what-on-earth-is-happening" human curiosity felt so authentic.

It’s smart, it’s layered, and the prose is just... chef’s kiss.

Why You’ll Devour This

• The Pace: The story unfolds over just a few days. I’m not joking when I say I inhaled the first 17 chapters in one sitting. It has that dangerous "just one more chapter" energy.

• The History: Jay Neill weaves in these gorgeous historical textures—like the Master remembering Queen Charlotte requesting the creation of the Serpentine in Hyde Park. It makes the world feel ancient and lived-in.

• The Humour: Hannah’s internal monologue is sharp, wicked, and self-recriminating. It’s exactly the kind of snarky, intellectual tone we love.

• Zero Spice, Maximum Heart: For my fellow readers who want deep emotional stakes without the bedroom scenes—this is for you.

  
  

The Verdict -  Curious Physiologies review

I went from laughing at Hannah’s dry wit to absolutely sobbing by the final page. It’s rare for a "fun" urban fantasy to pack such a massive emotional punch, but this one left me wrecked in the best possible way.

If you loved Neverwhere or Rivers of London, but you’ve been waiting for a female-led story with a medical twist, put this on your TBR immediately.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A triumphant dive into the shadows of the Jubilee line. I’m already counting down the days until Book Two.