This novella was everything I wanted it to be: an atmospheric, erotic exploration of a Parisian folk tale. I found the length of the novella to be perfect and it was a wonderful, short, concise story. The gothic, supernatural horror elements were well executed. The setting was very well done - I felt like I was inside a literary version of Moulin Rouge.

Because it's a folk tale retelling, I found the flatness of the characters to be appropriate for the type of storytelling. I do think some of the more erotic scenes were rushed, but again, I think it is okay given the context. Overall, this was an enjoyable, quick read.

Thanks to NetGalley for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review!

"Cece hammered her ghostly fists on the glass, and screamed, and screamed, and screamed."

First, I'll say that this book didn't quite deliver what I was looking for. The premise—"On the run from a life of prostitution and poverty, exotic dancer Cece Dulac agrees to become the main attraction at an erotic séance hosted by an enigmatic mesmerist, Monsieur Rossignol"—set my expectations high for a darkly seductive tale of erotic horror. While the novella had its moments, it ultimately left me wanting more in terms of plot, character depth, and cohesion.

Let's start with the characters. While intriguing, Cece felt overshadowed by Selena, who would have made for a stronger protagonist. If Selena had been the focal point, the story might have felt more cohesive and even heightened the romance between Cece and George, which came off as confusing rather than compelling. A more romantic dynamic between Cece and George could have elevated their relationship and given the ending more weight. The romance was a bit too one-sided.

I struggled to care about George. He needed more flair, like Will from Pirates of the Caribbean. Rosie also felt underutilized. Her role could have added more intrigue and betrayal, but it didn't quite land for me.

What I liked: The callbacks to earlier moments in the story were clever, and I wish there had been more of them throughout to create a sense of foreshadowing or thematic resonance. Little tricks like that would have made the story feel more thoughtful and engaging—perhaps even more of a thriller. I also liked the idea of tying the story more firmly to feminist themes, but it didn't quite go far enough in that direction. Selena had so much potential to be either pure, witchy evil or a tragic figure we could pity. Instead, she occupied a murky middle ground that left me unsure how to feel about her.

That said, I'm obsessed with the cover—it's absolutely stunning and captures the tone I wanted the story to deliver.

While the novella had an interesting premise and a few striking moments, it didn't quite live up to its potential.

The idea of the book was very promising and unique. However the novella was very rushed. I think the plot would have been better suited for a full novel. I’d like to see the development of the characters and their relationships.

this is a dark and twisted horror novella with a dash of erotica and a heavy dose of insta-love.

the premise: George, a young artist fresh to Paris, is under strict orders from his dad to focus on his craft and steer clear of women. Naturally, he immediately falls for Cece, a beautiful dancer, and ends up in way over his head. Oh, George—maybe Dad had a point? the insta-love is strong here, and while it’s usually a tough sell, the horror angle makes it more palatable. still, George’s over-the-top declarations of love are enough to give anyone secondhand embarrassment. things take a darker turn when Rossignol, the mysterious and magnetic "Prince of Debauchery," sets his sights on Cece. at one of his decadent parties, something unspeakable happens to her—a moment i won’t spoil, but it involves disturbing, dub/non-con elements, so proceed with caution.

the novella’s short length means there’s not much time to really get into the characters or their relationships, but the fast-paced story delivers some solid creepy vibes and a few standout moments of violence. it's not perfect, but it’s compelling enough that I’d check out more from this author.

apparently this book came out like three years ago but i thought it was new so my b....

this was an okay little novella. the mystery elements were good but the romance wasn't my fave. i did like the setting, this victorian time period is fun to read about. i've loved it sense i read the infernal devices. this took place in paris not england but still the setting was nice. overall i may have liked the cover more than the overall story... sorry

Set within a decadent Paris this is a rich and sumptuous erotic horror novella.

The descriptive language that accompanies George’s arrival in the French capital wonderfully sets the scene. He is travel-worn after his long sea crossing from England but rendezvousing with his friend Bastian it is off to the Paris Theatre rather than cocoa and bed.

The delightful animated avenues and boulevards are exchanged for the stalls and stage of the music hall.

George who was warned by his father of the dangers of becoming distracted by the delightful women of the City is lost with the first glimpse of a dancer’s ankle. Sponsored by his father to further a career as an artist in Paris, poor George, just nineteen has fallen on his first night there. Besotted by the sexual charisma and physical attraction of lead performer, Cecile Dulac. The poor lad didn’t have a chance. “George began to find her somehow beguiling, with her caramel hair and forget-me-not blue eyes. It was the sensuous way she danced.”

But Cecile, (Cece) is being drawn into a darker world, chosen to become a puppet caught up in debauchery and sexual manipulation.
George seeing her as exploited and in danger, under some evil influence and mind control.
Can he save her and at what cost to himself?

I found the writing absorbing and immediate, placing you into the story. The language is rich and colourful, bringing to life the earlier liberated time in the late 19th century. The concept of malevolent spirits was credible, more so against the ideas of hypnosis and erotic exhibitionism.

This is quite an explicit story of carnal desire and sexual gratification; however, I felt this reflected the period and the message within the narrative well. Indeed it speaks to our own time regarding exploitation in the sex industry, modern day slavery and the control and role of men in society.

Aside from all that. This is a great short story full of action and excitement. An enjoyable read.