A stunning debut that will take you on a fantastical gothic adventure.

From the marketing of this book I assumed that it was a historical gothic, but it is a bit higher fantasy than that. Despite the initial confusion, I found myself sinking easily into this lush, dreamy, gothic world. As with any good gothic, it takes place in an atmospheric mansion house that becomes as much of a character in its own right as anyone else. I appreciate that it isn't a chosen one narrative, but rather the main character, Leta, is motivated by a fierce love for her brother and a wish to protect him from his abilities, and those who want to take advantage of them. It's not often we get a fleshed-out sibling bond on the page. When the siblings end up on the Lakesedge estate, the story begins as they become wards to the intimidating Rowan Sylvanan, who may also be their only hope. A great, solid, gothic fantasy debut, and I greatly look forward to reading Forestfall. Thank you to the team for letting me read this early!