A review by bookishde
A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid

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

3.75

I was fortunate to start reading this book with no prior knowledge of its plot, so I had no high expectations of a rivals-to-lovers plot or a dark academia setting. I rated this book 3.75* mainly because of how enjoyable the dark, rainy and oppressive atmosphere was, but also because it left me wishing I could pick up a copy of Angharad to read. I enjoyed the prose, and while it is clear that the author loves the overuse of similes, I thought this suited the book. I look forwarding to reading this again, to see what I missed now that I know the mysteries. 

I've read mixed reviews of Effy's character, but, for the most part, I thought she was well written and believable. Less so were Preston and Ianto, both of whom would have benefitted from more depth and personality. Likewise, the broader worldbuilding left much to be desired. The emphasis on a literature degree over an architectural one felt contrived and unconvincing, and while Effy was not supposed to be a strong architect student, the vague descriptions of her 'work' on the house made me think that the author doesn't know much about architecture either. Lastly, the allusion to a war seemed tacked on, serving little purpose beyond highlighting Effy's xenophobia toward Preston, which went unresolved. 

Ultimately, this is a book that would have benefitted from additional pages. 
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