I was so excited when I saw that this book was temporarily on the read now section of NetGalley. This was one of my most anticipated books of 2021 and so I couldn’t pass up the chance to get to read and review it early. Let me just say, it did not disappoint! This is a very strong debut that works within the conventions of gothic and mystery novels to create an enchanting story that draws the reader in.
So much of the strength of this book is its ability to build tension in the dark, cold, lonely atmosphere the author has masterfully created. The first 20% or so is slow, but after that, once the plot truly kicks in, the book never lets up. The tension and masterful timing of each intricate piece of information’s reveal had me unable to put this book down. I read the first 20% or so over many days in short bursts, the last about 80% I read in one go through one day because I just didn’t want to stop, I had to see where it was going.
The dynamic relationship from enemies to reluctant allies to I’d die for you without thinking twice, wait when did that happen? between Henry and Wren was so good. The initial tension slowly bleeding away as they get more comfortable together but also being still so tense because they refuse to think the other might share their same goals. Their relationship keeps the reader on their toes until the very end as to exactly how anything is going to pan out. The representation of a bisexual main character, Wren, whose bisexuality is made evident throughout the book, and isn’t minimized by the fact that she ends up in a relationship with a man is definitely an important piece of representation because it isn’t often seen. Wren’s relationship with Una and her relationship with Henry are shown to be so different from each other, for good reason, but neither is viewed as less important or valid.
Wren and her aunt’s journey from mutual hate to mutual understanding was something I didn’t see coming based on Isabel’s actions throughout the novel, but it also showed that women in power are stronger when they allow other women close to them rather than pushing away anyone who could make them seem less coldly professional.