A review by arcali
Murder at Spindle Manor by Morgan Stang

dark funny mysterious tense medium-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? No

4.5

When I first learned of this book, it was described to me as 'Agatha Christie meets Soulsborne', and it's a very apt description. This book is a wonderful mix of gothic horror and whodunnit mystery,  with ghosts, monsters and other creatures of the night combined with the darkness in ordinary people.

I loved the setting of the book, which I'd describe as a steampunk, gaslamp fantasy. The characters are all very Victoriana in style,  with occupations such as coachman, mesmer, medium,  socialite and... huntress. What hints I had of the world left me eager to find out more,  and I was delighted to see that there's going to be a sequel.

The only reason  I've rated the book 4.5/5 instead of a full 5 stars is that I felt that one of the threats in the story wasn't played quite as strongly as it should have been - it took more of a second fiddle to the whodunit elements.  This is possibly  just personal preference on my part.

Overall thoughts: Would definitely recommend this! It was wonderfully gothic with some fun moments of humour as well.
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