A review by evelyn_books
Blood and Mascara by Colin Krainin

3.75

rating: 3.75/5

I absolutely love noir old movies, and upon coming across this book, and knowing that it's a literary thriller at that, I did NOT hesitate! And as expected, it was GOOD!

I loved the story, loved how it was so intricate and well crafted. The writing in this book absolutely delivered, reaffirming why literary fiction is one of my favorite genres. Although I don't read as much of it as I should, whenever I do, I savor every moment.

I gave this 3.75 stars solely because of the pace; the first half felt too slow, and I found myself struggling to stay engaged with the plot. However, once the story picked up, it was a CRAZY ride, and the characters and amazing storyline kept me hooked until the end. The vibes were there STRONGLY, and once the plot gained momentum, it was impossible to put the book down (i just finished it and it's 5:45 am). Despite the slow start, the emotional depth and gripping twists made it SO worth the read. 

"Blood and Mascara" is a captivating murder mystery that masterfully keeps readers on their toes with its intricate details and unexpected twists. The story unfolds at a deliberate pace, urging you to take your time and delve into the layers of subtext. With its multiple timelines and perspectives, the narrative is complex and at times disorienting, but this adds to its allure. The raw, gory elements enhance the intensity, making this a brilliant and artfully crafted tale.

(ARC read through BookSirens)