A review by foxfic
But Not Too Bold by Hache Pueyo

adventurous funny mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This is another entry into my beloved sapphic monster romance genre. In it, an ancient, humanoid spider has a bevy of human helpers within her storied mansion. 

One such helper is the keeper of the keys — who holds the keys to open drawers containing the spider’s memories. Following the death of the old keeper, a new one is promoted, and she must solve a mystery before her mistress’s patience run out.

This is a short, lovely little gothic novella. I adored all of the interactions of the principle couple, and reveled in the intricate world building — things like rainbows of poppies eternally growing on the property, or the description of other ancient beings who exist elsewhere. I’d enthusiastically read another book in this setting.

I have one issue with a subplot and some decision making which I felt took away from the narrative, but other than that, this was a perfect book for me.