Belladonna

5 out of 5 stars

“Belladonna” by Adalyn Grace is a captivating blend of gothic fantasy, mystery, and romance that will enchant you from the first page. Set in a slightly magical 19th-century world, the story follows Signa Farrow, a 17-year-old orphan with an unusual gift – she can communicate with spirits and has a unique relationship with Death himself, and she does not like it at all.

When Signa is sent to live with her last living relatives, the Hawthornes, at their eerie Thorn Grove estate, she becomes entangled in a web of family secrets, suspicious deaths, and a mysterious illness plaguing her young cousin. As Signa delves deeper into the family's dark history, she must use her supernatural abilities to uncover the truth behind her aunt's murder and save her cousin's life.

Grace's writing is beautifully atmospheric, creating a lush, gothic ambience that permeates every page. She weaves together elements of fantasy, paranormal, and mystery, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The pacing is well-executed, with plenty of twists and turns to maintain suspense throughout the novel.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its characters. Signa's growth from an angry, lonely, cursed orphan to a young woman embracing her powers is compelling. The supporting cast, including the charismatic Death, adds depth and intrigue to the story. The chemistry between Signa and Death is particularly noteworthy, creating a slow-burn romance that will leave readers swooning. Talk about an age-gap romance!

While some readers may intuit one or two plot twists, the overall mystery remains engaging, with several surprises in store. The ending sets up an intriguing cliffhanger, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next instalment in the series. Luckily, the next two books are already published and I absolutely devoured them.

“Belladonna” is perfect for fans of gothic literature, paranormal romance, and murder mysteries. Adalyn Grace has crafted a dreamy, imaginative world that will linger in your mind long after you finish this book.

With its stunning cover matching the beauty of its contents, this book is both a visual and literary treat.