Member Reviews

I'm actually blown away, y'all. I've never read a fantasy murder mystery before, and I absolutely could not put this down.
The story follows Catrin, a spunky architect's assistant who spends her nights climbing the scaffolds of the Sanctum to search for flaws. One such night, she hears a mysterious scream and suffers a dangerous fall, seeing strange visions flash just before her safety rope catches her. Her visions lead her to an alley, where she finds a mutilated body.
An investigation is launched, and Catrin feels responsible, so she joins the search for the killer. More and more deaths scar her precious city, and while navigating her strange, gifted visions, Catrin is forced to admit odd coincidences in the murders. The question is, how close will the killer get to her before she and her partner, Simon, can find the solution? And will her newfound power serve as a blessing...or a curse?
Catrin is a compelling protagonist, to be sure. Her talents are unique, and her story arc slight, yet still present. Throughout the course of the book, she finds herself, and it's both interesting and fulfilling to watch.
Though I would have liked to know more about Simon's backstory, his romance with Catrin felt genuine. I very much enjoyed his intelligent character and the workings of his mind as he dissected the mystery, as well as his relationship with his host family, the Montcuirs.
The story certainly kept me guessing, though I'm sure someone with more murder mystery experience would solve it more easily than I did. The plot was well paced and well developed. The magic system was a fresh departure froma more elemental structure, and it lent a unique detail to the book. I would definitely have liked to see it explored further, perhaps in a sequel.
Trigger/content warnings are definitely a must. Gore, mention of suicide, prostitution, murder, incest, and rape are at the top of my head. Please read with caution.
I would recommend this to any YA reader who can stand the bloody details. It's truly so delightful. I'm very eager for more from this author.

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I truly believe this book has set a new precedent for the YA dark fantasy genre! Fantastically written, great pacing and amazing thrills; I could not put it down'!

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This was a change for me as I didn't expect so much mystery and thrills in this story. It was an absolute delight!

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This book was absolutely fantastic. I've already added it to our list for order this year and will recommend it to students.

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Thank you to the publisher and @NetGalley for the E-ARC copy of this book. The rating of this book is entirely of my own opinion.

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