ktxx22's review against another edition
4.0
My classic gothic literature loving self adored this concept!! It took me a bit to really get into what exactly was going on and I can tell you once you get into the swing of things the whole thing is delightfully entertaining. The only reason this isn’t getting a 5 star review is because it was really convenient narrative wise. Nothing is too far fetched and I wish I had had a bit more clarity in what was going on from the beginning as far as the characters butting in during the story telling. I am going to be rapidly continuing this series as it is a good time and I enjoy the concept. 4/5
heatherhira's review against another edition
3.0
This was a pretty quick read. The premise is a bit gimmicky but not in a particularly self-serious way. For example, both the characters from Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and the actual book exist in this world.
Filled with an ensemble cast, I found the main characters to be mostly sympathetic. Their relationships with each other also keep each character from being too introspective or weepy, which I appreciate. As this is the first book in a new series, large swaths of backstory are expected, but they were spread throughout the story.
I found the tone inconsistent at times. I wasn't sure whether this was aimed at an adult or YA audience although the writing style of interrupting the main narrative with notes regarding various character's reactions rather put it firmly in the YA camp. The device did add some humor but was mostly distractingly invasive and I could have done without that particular choice.
Filled with an ensemble cast, I found the main characters to be mostly sympathetic. Their relationships with each other also keep each character from being too introspective or weepy, which I appreciate. As this is the first book in a new series, large swaths of backstory are expected, but they were spread throughout the story.
I found the tone inconsistent at times. I wasn't sure whether this was aimed at an adult or YA audience although the writing style of interrupting the main narrative with notes regarding various character's reactions rather put it firmly in the YA camp. The device did add some humor but was mostly distractingly invasive and I could have done without that particular choice.
emily_e_h's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
1.0
readingkellyabbott79's review against another edition
adventurous
fast-paced
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
tinysealoot's review against another edition
4.0
Very interesting book! I loved the take on old classics from the woman/monster perspective! Also it's set in England and Sherlock Holmes is a character!
beryboy43's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
justtryingmybesthere's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
frogie's review against another edition
4.0
A fun and interesting read filled with characters both familiar and not. I enjoyed seeing how so many classic horror stories came together, although the writing did drag a little at times and there were moments that felt like some characters were making sudden speeches. I'll admit that this book very much felt like one long setup for the rest of the series - but that didn't bother me as a) I already kind of expected it what with it being the first book, and b) it was entertaining enough that it kept me hooked regardless. Mary Jekyll is easily my favourite character (though Mrs Poole makes a close second); I just liked watching her do her best to be sensible and levelheaded even when thrown into the deep end.
Considering the teasing way it ended and what is hinted at being in the next book, I definitely plan to pick up the sequel!
Considering the teasing way it ended and what is hinted at being in the next book, I definitely plan to pick up the sequel!
kramie's review against another edition
5.0
A take on many classics interwoven. I really enjoyed this book which is written from women’s perspectives in times gone by. Follow the twists and turns and how the family develops in the first of the series xx