A review by puali
A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid

dark emotional mysterious slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This is a story overflowing with waves upon waves of lush descriptions and prose. Backed by an MC that’s really gone through it, “A Study in Downing” doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of being a woman in a world dominated by men, all while giving this narrative a fantastical twist. 

I really enjoyed reading and rereading passages from this novel, just because I liked the way they resonated in my brain. The blend of between fantasy and reality was also executed really well. 

I think  that what really stuck with me though, was the setting: a manor on top a cliff, with the sea roaring at it’s base of and a drowned city at the bottom. The house at times felt like a character of it’s own, with it’s blurred mirrors and paintings that seemed to come to life at times. 

While the plot was a bit predictable at times, I appreciated the way Reid set the stage and revealed key information as the story progressed. It really felt like the reader was there, uncovering secrets along with the characters.  

All in all, great read. Can’t wait for the sequel. 
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