My full review of Lakesedge is available on goodreads at the attached link!

Overall I loved this book- It features a strong protagonist, a charming dark-haired love interest, great gothic world-building, and lots of LGBTQIA+ representation. I definitely recommend this book to any fantasy romance lovers and I can't wait for the sequel!

Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Australia for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I was concerned this would be too formulaic (and to an extent, it is), but the author created such a great atmosphere I found myself eager to keep reading. It's dark without being depressing, has moments of joy without being saccharine, and the pacing keeps things moving without feeling rushed or forgotten.

It was great to have LGBT+ characters' feelings treated as entirely normal, and explicit consent is given between the people involved in the book's sole sex scene.

What I thoroughly appreciated about this book was the world building. I want to know more about:

* The religion of the Lady and the significance of salt in their prayers and rituals
* The Maylands, where the alchemists undergo their training
* The trees and moths of the Below

I am also curious if Leta will be the only narrator in future books, as I would love to read the POV of all the other characters. Finally, a round of applause for the Persephone homage; got to love a pomegranate-underworld connection. Looking forward to the next installment!