Evelyn Hardcastle takes the classic setting of murder mysteries: a gloomy, looming estate, with inhabitants both full of money and malice, and flawlessly weaves this classic gothic set with an almost scifi-esque premise.

Each character we meet is easy to understand, almost simple. And yet each of them are fully realized, highly likeable and even relatable, despite their flaws. Bell's a personal favorite (he's a bit of a himbo) but I found myself surprisingly attached to Derby, despite Derby being Derby.

The plot I found well executed. This book does an interesting thing where it almost holds your hand, reveals clues plainly. It doesn't hide its answers, if you pay attention. It feels confident in its puzzle; it doesn't need fancy smoke and mirrors.

The mystery itself I found slightly too convoluted by the end, with the more "supernatural" elements slightly out of place. But I chalk that up to personal preference; if that's the sort of thing you like with your murder mysteries, then this one's definitely for you. Bring a notepad!

In short, Evelyn Hardcastle is a clever mystery with a smoothly executed premise, filled with wonderful characters amidst a classical whodunnit setting, and an ultimately hopeful theme and ending. Highly recommended for anyone who loves the genre.

i cant review this thing like i usually do. im too close to it. i can't be unbiased.

did i enjoy this book? yes??? it was good. i'm glad i read it. but i enjoyed it the way one enjoys outpatient surgery and only because anesthetics have been invented.

actually, scratch that. it was a more harrowing experience than outpatient surgery.

anyway! what i can say is that lovers of dark fantasy and dark romance is gonna love this weird little book. and the more you love this genre, the more i urge you to go in as blind as possible. try to read it in the dark. and i hope it haunts you, as much as it does me. misery loves company.