Content Warnings: Spiders, Drug Use (Opioids), Power Imbalance

For the sex averse, there are no explicit sex scenes.

This novella is a gem. I immediately fell in love with the lusciously described setting of the the Capricious House, home of color-coded servants serving a monstrous Archaic One, overrun with poppies and tarantulas. The primary character, Dália, likewise was an immediate draw. Her outlook on her life in general, as well as her adjustment to taking on the role of Keeper of the Keys, and how she interacts with everyone in the Capricious House made me feel like I was right beside her in this world.

Some may want more spiciness/explicit romance than this novella provides, but I liked that the romance was focused only on the complicated relationship between Anatema and Dália and each of their intriguing personalities. The tension and chemistry pull through the work, wrapped up some in mystery and then eventually in acceptance. For my tastes, it was the perfect blend of horror, fantasy, and romance.

I cannot wait to add this novella to my physical book shelf when it gets released, and I think lots of people are in for a treat when they pick it up.

4.5 stars
I already know several folks who are going to love this horrific delight!

A spider woman in want of a bride. A keeper of keys who must uncover a theft. A hunger between them that may end in passion or death.
This short story packs a intriguing idea with a well rounded fantasy world and delivers on the eerie delights that we love in horror.
This is intelligent and gothic and short and sweet. Perfect read!

I usually have a hard time with novellas because either the pacing feels off or I want more information, but not with this one. Hache Pueyo paced this short little tale so well. It had all the atmosphere and plot that it needed to feel like a complete story. I loved the descriptions of the house and the way it ran. I had never read a book where spiders are such a prominent feature, but I really liked it. Everyone having a lil pet tarantula was honestly so cute. I think I've decided that stories with a sapphic monster romance in the background are something I'm going to look for more. I love the dynamic of monster being very aggressive with their love because they just do not understand their human. I can see this being enjoyable to a lot of readers looking for gothic atmosphere that's just a little different than we normally see it. I could see this being enjoyed by avid horror readers but also readers who don't read much horror.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.