"Yes-there, among the books, and a few candles which we lit more for atmosphere than for light, we were not two vampires speaking in the dark; we lived in the worlds of kings and queens, philosophers and poets, generals and adventurers, monks and oracles, and witnessed the struggles of humankind as it fought its way out of the dark. Miss Josephine had been correct, I realized. Nobody who spoke with such reverence on humanity could ever pretend to revile it."
This book was such a beautiful study on pining, friendship, and what it means to be human. I received this book as PR from the incredible Hartley and I couldn't be more grateful!
Not only is the story itself wonderful, but the insane art and formating of the covers and title page make this book one I'm proud to display on my shelf and use as an accessory. Avery and Alistar start out as master and butler, but turn into so so much more. Avery's story of curiosity to cursed to ultimately fulfillment was such an incredible journey to take alongside him. I also adored how we got to see the Count grow from bitter and unfeeling to open and quite smitten. A standout character for me was the bookseller, Noah! He always had incredible recommendations and helpful insight.
While this book definitely takes its time reaching fulfillment of the homoerotic yearning, the journey it takes to get there was absolutely thrilling with twists and turns keeping me engaged the whole way through. I'm going to have to immediately dive into the second book because WHAT an ending!! How could you do this to me!!
This book takes place from September to January in the British countryside and the seasonal elements were incredible. I read this in November which I believe to be the perfect month for this ode to gothic literature.
"How wonderfully well he went with the winter scene, I thought! Yes-he would be a fitting ghost, if he so wished. Despite the bite of the wind, I felt brightness come into my eyes as I looked, for this fascinating figure would be my object of study for the winter, mine to converse with and gaze upon for as much time as I pleased; but as soon as the thought came to mind, I was disconcerted, and then quite flustered."