A review by dearbookshelves
Starling House by Alix E. Harrow

5.0

"I know exactly why Icarus flew so high: when you’ve spent too long in the dark, you’ll melt your own wings just to feel the sun on your skin."

A mysterious house inhabited by a strange guy in a southern town, a woman trying to take care of her brother even if it means not looking after herself come together to create a beautiful southern gothic tale that i was more than happy to savor.

I hadn't read any Alix E Harrow before this but I was absolutely stunned by how beautiful the writing is. I read this very slowly and I think that served me well. I felt more immersed and invested in the story and took my time thinking about each scene. This book is a bit slow moving but the high points really deliver. Harrow does a great job at building the relationships between characters. I relate immensely to the relationship between the main character, Opal, and her brother, Jasper and felt emotional seeing their dynamic change and develop. The romance isn't major but there is just enough angst and tension that the payoff is super impactful. Additionally, the side characters do not feel like they are there to just serve Opal. I really love the ones I love and am angered by the ones I should feel anger towards. I can't say enough positive things about this book and highly recommend if you're into creepy houses and gothic stories. If you enjoyed A Study in Drowning or Gallant you might like this one, as well.