This was a story I both really enjoyed and really didn't.

The positives were the setting, the idea of two competing businesses trying to get arcane items. I really enjoyed the characters and the way in which there was an attempt at putting a science spin on the concept of ghosts and magic. The whole array of supporting characters were great, and well rounded, giving a whole lot of found family vibes.

My main issue was with the main character. I just didn't like her. I found her constant 'woe is me, everything is my fault' attitude annoying and the while I suppose I was meant to think she was brave or something, I just found myself rolling my eyes every time she did the exact thing she was told not to. And then was shocked every time that there were consequences to her actions. Her mother was bewildering and I didn't buy the sudden character pivot that occurred about 75% of the way through.

The geeky storyline read like a plup novel which I think was the point, and worked well. It's just a shame they didn't actually play more of MoM.

The way in which a larger world is set up was great too, I wanted to know more about the MC's mysterious uncle and of course the painting. Oh the painting. That thing was so creepy and well done and I really hope the second book builds on it, because I need more of that painting. Just not, physically, anywhere near me.

~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~