This book is beautifully written. I really appreciate how Kylie Lee Baker was able to intertwine different aspects of mental health throughout the story. For example, how she subtly hints at Cora’s history of involuntary hospitalization. At first, it almost feels like we’re meant to assume that all the spooky things happening are a result of her worsening mental health. But then things get even more terrifying because, in this world, ghosts and other supernatural beings can actually interact with and harm people. THEY ARE REAL and Cora isn’t going insane.

And if that wasn’t scary enough, we also dive into just how awful people can be. How corruption and indifference can harm the very people who should be protected.

Horror as a genre has always been a great tool for showcasing injustice, violence, and the emotions that come with them, and I think it’s done really well here.

I also love Cora as a character. Her struggles with identity, grief, and relationships make her growth and her fight feel so much more human. You can’t help but want to root for her.

Anyways, this was really good. 5 soup dumplings out of 5 soup dumplings. 🥟