A review by c_mariewrites
The Savage Instinct by M.M. DeLuca

dark emotional sad tense 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? It's complicated

5.0

I picked up this book because it was advertised as similar to Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood, one of my favorite books, that advertisement did not disappoint. This is a tense story about two women from vastly different backgrounds who both contemplate murder. Clara becomes morbidly obsessed with convicted murderer Mary Ann Cotton, this is something very relatable, I think not just for me but for anyone who finds themselves drawn to true crime. This story is beautiful and intriguing, the characters are emotional and complex while being half hidden from the reader. I loved this story so much I found myself desperate to read it and I can't wait to add it to my shelves permanently.