Scan barcode
katefrost's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
I’d give this book six stars if I could. Although this book could absolutely be read as a standalone, it follows in the same world and some of the same characters as Atwater’s Regency Fairytale series Whereas those books could definitely be called cozy fantasy, this dealt with darker themes, and could be more accurately called a gothic fantasy. However, despite that being a throughline, because of the commonality of the world, it still read somewhat cozily to me.
Our heroine is a magician who comes to a cursed manor to help an old benefactress protect her grandson from the nefarious presence in her estate. Although the other servants in the house can’t seem to tell her what’s happening, it’s clear that malevolent faeries are involved.
The story is masterfully woven, with charming characters and themes that encourage the reader to confront what constitutes a monster and how people regain their agency after violation.
Even when constructing a darker story, there is something so inviting about Atwater’s prose. It’s such a delight to read. I’m genuinely thrilled that she’s continuing to write in this world and hope we won’t have to wait too long for the next installment. Many thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy of this wonderful story.
Our heroine is a magician who comes to a cursed manor to help an old benefactress protect her grandson from the nefarious presence in her estate. Although the other servants in the house can’t seem to tell her what’s happening, it’s clear that malevolent faeries are involved.
The story is masterfully woven, with charming characters and themes that encourage the reader to confront what constitutes a monster and how people regain their agency after violation.
Even when constructing a darker story, there is something so inviting about Atwater’s prose. It’s such a delight to read. I’m genuinely thrilled that she’s continuing to write in this world and hope we won’t have to wait too long for the next installment. Many thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy of this wonderful story.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Stalking and Kidnapping
Minor: Body horror and Sexual violence
More...