A review by onceuponasillylittlebook
Within These Wicked Walls by Lauren Blackwood
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I haven't read or watched Jane Eyre (I know, I know) so I can't comment on how little this story relates to it but on its own it was a fairly enjoyable romance/horror.
The Ethiopian setting was interesting and learning about what a debtera is and does makes a change from the typical Christian exorcisms although there wasn't much worldbuilding beyond that.
The romance was cute with some great banter. Lots of introspection and character growth. I love a story where roles are switched and the FL protects and saves the ML.
The horror elements were scattered throughout and not a major part of the story, nor were there any tense moments or jumps cares, just the slightly spooky atmosphere of a haunted house (I'm quite thick-skinned though so some might find it a bit scarier!).
Some trigger warnings for physical abuse.
Worth a read if you like romance and horror!
The Ethiopian setting was interesting and learning about what a debtera is and does makes a change from the typical Christian exorcisms although there wasn't much worldbuilding beyond that.
The romance was cute with some great banter. Lots of introspection and character growth. I love a story where roles are switched and the FL protects and saves the ML.
The horror elements were scattered throughout and not a major part of the story, nor were there any tense moments or jumps cares, just the slightly spooky atmosphere of a haunted house (I'm quite thick-skinned though so some might find it a bit scarier!).
Some trigger warnings for physical abuse.
Worth a read if you like romance and horror!
Content Warnings
Minor: Blood, Death, Abandonment, Child abuse, Death of parent, and Physical abuse