Shama M

1. Destroying shit

Well, this book doesn't quite have Bridgerton vibes. No fancy balls or matchmaking business. Instead, it's the story of two women fighting for their independence and identity in a society designed against both, all whilst trying desperately to protect their loved ones. It’s about two rival gothic novelists who are brought together repeatedly despite their best efforts to stay away from each other, as if by fate (or perhaps something more, as we discover later). Eventually, they get trapped in a haunted manor where they have to navigate their feelings, as well as solve the property's many mysteries, including a suspicious death.

The romance itself is as devastatingly beautiful as I could have hoped for, if not even better. It has that Wicked style rivals-to-lovers arc, the wit and yearning of Jane Austen, the gothic atmosphere of Mary Shelley, the mystery of Agatha Christie, and actual paranormal activity to top it all off.

But I have to admit, it also felt a little incomplete at times. Like Iris' reaction to Selina's brother's mention. Was she crushing on him? Did they meet later? We don't get to know. The book focuses a little too much on the two main characters. We don't get much glimpse into their relationships with their other friends. Or the friends themselves who all piqued my interest but the author refused to explore their lives further.

Still, I quite liked this book and had a hard time putting it down. I love how every chapter starts with a quote from either classic literature or something written by one of the characters (some of which are really funny). And I love Alexandra Vasti's writing style. It's kind of a blend of classic and modern writing. It hits that sweet spot in between where the language neither feels too contemporary, nor hard to decipher like classic authors.

Overall, it was a great experience. I look forward to reading more of her work.

Personal rating: 4.5/5