by Sylvia Moreno-Garcia

A Horror, 2020 by Del Rey, 320 Pages

What I Didn’t Like:

There are some uncomfortable and gross scenes. Of course, if you are expecting horror that’s probably not surprising. Just be aware.
I would’ve liked 1 or 2 more scenes in the back half of the book between climax and resolution. I felt like we spent a lot of time building up the book and then it rushed a bit.
The romance side plot felt a little instalove for me, but I sort of excused it as the terrible situation would enhance everything sort of trope.

Slow build gothic feel. You know something is off early and the discomfort only grows in the best way. “…sins and malevolent secrets fastened together.”
The setting was perfect. I loved the time period, the location, and the details. I even read the note at the back of my edition that talked about the real place this is based on. The setting made it possible for so many details and plot devices to work out. Truly perfect.
The ending was also perfect. I wouldn’t change a single word of that final chapter.

Fans of gothic novels will love this one. It’s got exactly the right feel, dark and dangerous and full of secrets.