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A review by vvayl
This Fatal Kiss by Alicia Jasinska
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
From the cover, I knew I had to read the book, and after discovering it was a queer polyamorous story based on Slavic folklore, I was even more excited to dive in. I'm glad I had the chance to read it.
This Fatal Kiss is a captivating read that blends romance and mythology in a fascinating way. I was so intrigued by the plot that I spent a lot of time researching the myths and spirits mentioned, which made me take longer to finish the book, but it remains a very quick read overall.
The story follows Gisela, a nymph who seeks the help of the town’s exorcist, from the place where she died, to help her obtain a kiss that will turn her into a human so she can return to her family. The premise is fascinating and unfolds smoothly, keeping the reader engaged throughout. Although the ending leaves several questions unanswered and suggests that the story will continue, the richness of the characters and the plot have left me eager to see how everything will develop.
The characters are one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Gisela, in particular, is well-developed; her doubts about her place among the nymphs and her human family were very interesting to read. Her humor and her relationship with the exorcist are charming. Besides the romance, there's also the mystery of her own death, and oh, the revelations that come! I’m looking forward to reading what comes next.
The exorcist, Kazik, pleasantly surprised me. His family history and his relationship with spirits were fascinating to read. It’s clear he has a long journey ahead, and I particularly enjoyed his process of discovering that things might not be as he was taught.
Aleksey—oh, his flirting and appearances with the other two were very well done. I love the three of them together and their viewpoints. His role in the story is intriguing, and I’m eager to learn more about him. I truly hope the relationship among the three works out, though I’m also wary of his character; I can’t decide whether it’s safe to fully trust him or not.
The water goblin is also a character who left a lasting impression. His relationship with the nymphs is endearing, almost like the grandfather of them all. I hope the story explores more about him and his connection with the exorcist’s family in the next books.
In summary, I recommend this book to any romance lover with a taste for folklore and magic.
I recibe this book from Netgalley, this was an hones review
This Fatal Kiss is a captivating read that blends romance and mythology in a fascinating way. I was so intrigued by the plot that I spent a lot of time researching the myths and spirits mentioned, which made me take longer to finish the book, but it remains a very quick read overall.
The story follows Gisela, a nymph who seeks the help of the town’s exorcist, from the place where she died, to help her obtain a kiss that will turn her into a human so she can return to her family. The premise is fascinating and unfolds smoothly, keeping the reader engaged throughout. Although the ending leaves several questions unanswered and suggests that the story will continue, the richness of the characters and the plot have left me eager to see how everything will develop.
The characters are one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Gisela, in particular, is well-developed; her doubts about her place among the nymphs and her human family were very interesting to read. Her humor and her relationship with the exorcist are charming. Besides the romance, there's also the mystery of her own death, and oh, the revelations that come! I’m looking forward to reading what comes next.
The exorcist, Kazik, pleasantly surprised me. His family history and his relationship with spirits were fascinating to read. It’s clear he has a long journey ahead, and I particularly enjoyed his process of discovering that things might not be as he was taught.
Aleksey—oh, his flirting and appearances with the other two were very well done. I love the three of them together and their viewpoints. His role in the story is intriguing, and I’m eager to learn more about him. I truly hope the relationship among the three works out, though I’m also wary of his character; I can’t decide whether it’s safe to fully trust him or not.
The water goblin is also a character who left a lasting impression. His relationship with the nymphs is endearing, almost like the grandfather of them all. I hope the story explores more about him and his connection with the exorcist’s family in the next books.
In summary, I recommend this book to any romance lover with a taste for folklore and magic.
I recibe this book from Netgalley, this was an hones review
Content Warnings
Moderate: Biphobia, Death, and Murder