I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked many aspects of the story, but it wasn't enough to fully I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked many aspects of the story, but it wasn't enough to fully appreciate it in the end.
The first disappointment came quite quickly. I have no idea why the book is being marketed as a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. I hardly saw any parallels - beyond a small reference in character naming. I have no idea if retellings of well-known stories sell well enough to make the connection worthwhile. But I always think it's a shame to be lured onto the wrong track.
Getting into the book was a little bumpy, but I liked that the city is almost a character in its own right in the story. Overall, the story is quite dark and violent but saves on explicit descriptions elsewhere.
I found Anabel and Nik very interesting as characters, and their relationship was also easy to understand for me. I found it a shame that the gang's business was only hinted at. I didn't have the information about what was going on there beyond an endless party.
I liked the atmosphere and the ending of the story the most. About halfway through, I didn't want to put the book down, and I'm happy I made the trip into the Ravens' world....more