"And oh, I am beautiful. Not the gentle beauty of the ladies from the fine houses, but the everlasting beauty of death, an unending thing, a carved icon from an unknown belief."

Major thanks to NetGalley and L.V. Russell for this advanced copy!

I am at a loss for words. This Gothic Horror novel truly left me speechless in the most beautiful manner. This has been a highly anticipated read for me. And I must say it exceeded expectations. The writing is lyrical, poetic and enchanting. From the descriptions of the sky to the greater emotional contexts I found myself riveted. And poised at the edge with a hunger for each word upon the page!

This book is perfect for fans of Nosferatu, Innamorata, The Poisoner series, The Death of Jane Lawrence, and even Wuthering Heights!

I long to be haunted by Folkehaven Hall and my wish is granted as I feel myself trapped within its walls even after the last page. I cannot stop thinking about it.

The characters never bored me. Some are like sunshine upon the page and others the depths of decay all ready to serve a purpose. I would highly recommend this book to those whom long for a gothic horror that certainly doesn't shy away from the darkness.

“Will you love me like this?” I am wretched, tear-choked and trembling. “In snatched moments of time, painted with horrors I will not walk away from?”

Rue is constantly battling between her love and attachment to her mother and the need to break free from her and everything that haunts Folkehaven Manor. Oubliette is an atmospheric, gothic, bloody story of a complicated mother-daughter relationship. Once you peel back the layers, it’s also a story of forbidden romance, of freedom from toxic relationships, of found family, and of feminine rage and revenge. I devoured this one in a day, but maybe don’t read this while you’re eating.

When it comes to writing gothic horror, I’m not sure it gets much better than this. Russell nails the atmosphere, the terror, and the gory details in this book. I’m not a fan of romance, but I’ll make an exception for Isabel Cañas and L.V. Russell. Rue and Oren’s love felt very reminiscent of the classics to me and so it seemed very appropriate for the time period.

Russell also wrote an excellent monstrous mother. While I don’t think the word vampire is ever used, it’s clear by the bloody mess what we’re dealing with here. I felt like I was right in the middle of the terror at the Manor. Every haunting detail will stick with me, including poor Hope in the corner.

If I could give this 6⭐ I would. Thanks to Net Galley and Quill and Crow for the arc!

I was first drawn to the book by the enchanting cover and I was so excited when I saw it was available on Netgalley and it certainly delivered. Immediately ordered a physical copy when I finished it.

Th gothic feel of this book is just next level. The writing? Absolutely beautiful and set the atmosphere perfectly. It was tragic, dark, grotesque and I didn't want to put it down.

I already feel like I want to re-read it tbh. The different timelines were really enjoyable and really brought the story together in the end

Highly recommend for gothic lovers