Member Review

Leena traded her secret to the Saint of Silence in exchange for medicine to save her brother. She told him about her ability to see ghosts, and now she's forced to work with him as he continues his search for the ghost of the powerful aristo who once owned the cursed estate of Weavingshaw. It will lead them both down a path of deceit, treachery, and secrets that could destroy them all.

I really liked Leena as a character. She's bullheaded and determined because that's what the world forces her to be, but she's still soft and caring at her core. It's a nice juxtaposition that works to make her somewhat unpredictable in a story that thrives on keeping things hidden. Saint is dark and brooding and a big mystery, which is the standard for romantasy; not my favorite, but it works with the story.

It's a solidly constructed mystery, with characters you can easily connect with even as you know almost nothing about them. Al-Wasity gives pieces you can use to build up the puzzle that is everyone in this world, letting the characters and plot slowly reveal themselves instead of dumping things on you through exposition. You get enough information to pull you in and want to stay for more. It does feel at times like things could be happening faster, while others could take more time to develop, but overall, it is very satisfying to read.

Very happy thanks to NetGalley and Del Rey for the twisty read!