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The Ink Eater
Not yet published
Expected 16 Aug 26"The Ink Eater" is a gothic romantic tragedy exploring the foundations of freedom, identity, and the battle with generational trauma.
Baird Cardall is perfectly content with never leaving the manor. For over 200 years, he's written and eaten thousands of stories, keeping the house alive and pleased as its vessel—alone, codependent, and devoted.
Until one of his stories escapes.
Hemming is a shapeshifter written into existence to keep Baird company. Gorgeous, part ink, and infuriatingly desirable, his mere presence is a disruption. Having broken away from his story, he causes harm to the manor—and thus, to Baird. And, yet, the magnetic pull between them is undeniable, even as Hemming digs up the ugliest parts of Baird's past.
But the house wants Hemming dead. It’s awfully hungry, and it won’t stop demanding until its cravings are satisfied. As his bond to the manor grows more hostile, Baird must choose between protecting all he has lived for—or destroying it for good.
Baird Cardall is perfectly content with never leaving the manor. For over 200 years, he's written and eaten thousands of stories, keeping the house alive and pleased as its vessel—alone, codependent, and devoted.
Until one of his stories escapes.
Hemming is a shapeshifter written into existence to keep Baird company. Gorgeous, part ink, and infuriatingly desirable, his mere presence is a disruption. Having broken away from his story, he causes harm to the manor—and thus, to Baird. And, yet, the magnetic pull between them is undeniable, even as Hemming digs up the ugliest parts of Baird's past.
But the house wants Hemming dead. It’s awfully hungry, and it won’t stop demanding until its cravings are satisfied. As his bond to the manor grows more hostile, Baird must choose between protecting all he has lived for—or destroying it for good.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication August 16, 2026
About the author
Alice G. Brooks
2 books32 followersAlice G. Brooks, formerly published under Alice Brooks, is a sapphic indie author writing LGBTQIA+ fiction, often focused on dark themes. When they’re not writing, they enjoy hiking, videogames, rewatching the same shows over and over again, and reading queer books.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Alice G. Brooks for this free ARC in exchange for my honest review
Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐ rounded up to 5 for GoodReads. I will raise the rating at a later date if this book stays with me
CW: I advise checking the content warnings for this one if needed.
Explicit |
Moderate |
Mild |
CWs provided by the author
My chosen soundtrack(s): Family Tree (Intro) - Ethel Cain | Angel - Sevdaliza | I am my home - vines
Representation
╰┈➤ Asexual Gay MMC
╰┈➤ Undefined Queer MMC
╰┈➤ MLM dynamic
╰┈➤ Disability rep through MC;
╰┈➤ Mental health rep through MC;
Themes
Fulfilling (familial) legacy/duty, control/predictability/order or the lack thereof, loneliness, co-dependency, generational trauma, the cycle of abuse (and the inability/ability to break it), instrumental childbearing motivation, repression, self-denial, conditioning, coercive control, agency/(bodily)autonomy or the lack thereof, hunger/want/need, insatiability.
Tropes/What to expect
❥ Gothic
❥ Sentient house
❥ Conditional immortality
❥ Living weapon adjacent
❥ Generational trauma/abuse
❥ Rigid/fearful 'immortal' X free spirited shapeshifter
❥ Forced proximity
❥ Touch starvation
What I liked/loved
✧ The setting, though officially set in modern times, doesn't read as such, which I am grateful for. The story mostly takes place at Cardall Manor. An estate figuratively frozen in time since the 18th century.
✧ Unique premise/concept. I mean, there is a generational curse that binds son, after son, after son, generation after generation, to a sentient house that is ravenous for stories. Which leaves each curse-bearer to write and consume stories endlessly, unable to satiate this ever-pressing hunger, for the curse-bearer's well-being is linked to that of the manor and vice versa. Throw in the concept of a conditional immortal wishing a once-star now shapeshifter companion into existence, and you get something pretty special.
✧ The overall mood is gothic yet still whimsical, grungy but with moments of levity.
✧ The prose is mostly lyrical while still accessible, yet at times switches to a blunt tone. Specifically, when delivering hard reality checks. I personally appreciated the conversations on abuse being more matter-of-fact than poetic. It felt respectful to the horrifying truth of abuse.
✧ Meaningful representation
✵ I love that this book has an asexual MC. I personally believe that shouldn't be something rare, but still is. Baird being gay and ace isn't just a footnote or a diversity checkmark. It's a huge part of his character, history, development and an important aspect to the plot.
✵ Though not as crucial to the plot as Baird's queerness, there is some disability representation, and aspects that can be relatable to people who deal with chronic pain.
✧ Baird is a layered and complex MC with a believable character arc. It's established quite early on that Baird likes control, order and predictability, or at least that is what his life has been shaped into.
He is tightly wound, repressing aspects of himself and stuck in years of living the same day but he is definitely perfectly fine, right? Yeah for sure.... Definitely....
Baird reminds me a little of a ticking time bomb, a bucket waiting to spill, a match itching to spark aflame, which makes him a compelling character to share a headspace with.
✧ Exploration of (generational) trauma/abuse and its glorification/normalisation. As well as complex parental and sibling dynamics, diving into guilt, envy, jealousy and measured worth.
✵ Living weapon, one of my favourite tropes!! Though Baird is not exactly a weapon, he was made/born to fulfil a role and serve as a tool, and as such has been reduced to something non-human. His whole being is abated to being a curse-bearer and is thus dehumanised to a certain degree.
✵ Exploration of (bodily) autonomy, specifically the lack of it, which was extremely well written and explored on both a figurative and literal level.
It touches on learned helplessness; how keeping someone in a tightly controlled environment can lead to a lack of basic, social and survival skills, making it even harder to break away from such systems.
It also highlights how people who are always controlled, curated, and lack agency tend to look for that sense of control elsewhere.
✵ Break the Believer trope, complex and intriguing to read about, specifically when
✵ Baird is not a perfect victim, and I will praise any piece of media that grants this type of nuanced representation.
✵ Exploration of the cycle of abuse
✧ Sentient house, my beloved!!! Don't we all love it when a house is a character of its own? I don't think I've read a book before where a house had such a loud, influential and imposing voice as in 'The Ink Eater'. I just loved how big their presence was. Which brings me to my next point.
✧ The convolution of the house's demands and Baird's feelings. These two characters were way more intrinsically bound than I had expected, and it made for a truly intriguing, complex, toxic, co-dependent dynamic.
✧ There is a somewhat dual timeline storytelling due to the journal entries we get to read that Baird has written in the past, which I loved!! They give a lot of context.
✧ The short stories Baird writes are almost folkloric. It reminded me a bit of Don't let the forest in in the way they can be read as just that, stories, or analysed for what they represent/symbolise.
✧ Exploration of physical and non-physical pain through a multitude of facets
✵ Enforced and inherited/generational pain
✵ Pain as something familiar, constant and at times comforting.
✵ Self-chosen pain. When pain is constantly 'happening' to someone, it can be a relief to choose pain on one's own. This act of autonomy renders someone an active rather than a passive participant in these situations. I love how the author explored this nuanced aspect of searching for control in a harmful situation.
✵ Normalisation/minimisation of pain
✧ Consumption/hunger as a metaphor. A powerful symbolism through which connection, want and need are explored. Though not exactly , there is something adjacent happening here which I know all of us freaks are fascinated with.
✧ Character-driven, emotion-focused with a high-stakes plot.
✧ Great for people who love CG Drews. There are some aspects of 'The Ink Eater', like intense yearning, complex dynamics, gothic vibes, exploration of trauma and dark whimsy, that I think would entice CG Drews enthusiasts.
✧ Thank god the love interest was not just barely 18, like many other books tend to do when the MC is immortal. I can't express how relieved I was when I found out the other MC was something ancient as well. Thank you, Alice G Brooks, for not doing that to your readers!
✧ The ending , and for that, I loved it.
What I didn't like/felt lacklustre about
✦ Some aspects of the romance weren't really my thing, which doesn't mean it's bad! It might be more of a personal preference.
✵ The change in pacing.
TLDR; Though the way the romance was written was believable from a character's standpoint, the pacing of the relationship towards the last third of the book wasn't my favourite.
✦ This book didn't really read as horror to me, which I didn't mind. I had just expected something different. Once again, this could just be a personal thing. I honestly might be desensitised after all the insane horror I've read, so really do take this with a grain of salt. It still delivers an enticing dark, moody and gothic atmosphere and is definitely something horror-adjacent though!
Conclusion/Notes
I was extremely excited for this gothic tragedy, and I'm glad to conclude that it definitely delivered!
'The Ink Eater' is an amazing, atmospheric, layered and Intricate exploration of familial legacies, enforced roles, generational trauma, the cycle of abuse, otherness and (bodily) autonomy.
Its relatability and immersiveness aren't diminished by its uniquely crafted fantasy setting. It only elevates these real-life emotions and dynamics. The characters in this world, though not exactly human (since a conditional immortal MC, sometimes-wind-sometimes-fox shapeshifter and a sentient house are defintly not the poster image of 'human) are still able to embody a human rawness. This book unveils how humans are flawed, at times awful, destructive, toxic and yet also capable of love, change and tenderness.
With its release date set in August of this year, this is the perfect read to pick up just in time for spooky season. I highly recommend it!
⋆⁺₊⋆ ━━━━⊱༒︎ • ༒︎⊰━━━━ ⋆⁺₊⋆
Want to buddy read this book now or in the future? You can do so on Storygraph.
Follow me on Spotify for specific reading playlists like this one: 📚 This Connection Is Muddled With Rot | Overview of all playlists
Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐ rounded up to 5 for GoodReads. I will raise the rating at a later date if this book stays with me
CW: I advise checking the content warnings for this one if needed.
Explicit |
Moderate |
Mild |
CWs provided by the author
My chosen soundtrack(s): Family Tree (Intro) - Ethel Cain | Angel - Sevdaliza | I am my home - vines
"I swore to keep the manor safe," Baird whispers unhappily. "With my last breath, I will serve. I am bound to it." (...) "I don't want what it wants anymore. But I can't abandon it. I can't abandon them."
"They abandoned you."
"And I am not like them." He inhales shakily, salty tears running into the corners of his mouth. "I refuse to be."
Representation
╰┈➤ Asexual Gay MMC
╰┈➤ Undefined Queer MMC
╰┈➤ MLM dynamic
╰┈➤ Disability rep through MC;
╰┈➤ Mental health rep through MC;
Themes
Fulfilling (familial) legacy/duty, control/predictability/order or the lack thereof, loneliness, co-dependency, generational trauma, the cycle of abuse (and the inability/ability to break it), instrumental childbearing motivation, repression, self-denial, conditioning, coercive control, agency/(bodily)autonomy or the lack thereof, hunger/want/need, insatiability.
Tropes/What to expect
❥ Gothic
❥ Sentient house
❥ Conditional immortality
❥ Living weapon adjacent
❥ Generational trauma/abuse
❥ Rigid/fearful 'immortal' X free spirited shapeshifter
❥ Forced proximity
❥ Touch starvation
What I liked/loved
✧ The setting, though officially set in modern times, doesn't read as such, which I am grateful for. The story mostly takes place at Cardall Manor. An estate figuratively frozen in time since the 18th century.
✧ Unique premise/concept. I mean, there is a generational curse that binds son, after son, after son, generation after generation, to a sentient house that is ravenous for stories. Which leaves each curse-bearer to write and consume stories endlessly, unable to satiate this ever-pressing hunger, for the curse-bearer's well-being is linked to that of the manor and vice versa. Throw in the concept of a conditional immortal wishing a once-star now shapeshifter companion into existence, and you get something pretty special.
✧ The overall mood is gothic yet still whimsical, grungy but with moments of levity.
✧ The prose is mostly lyrical while still accessible, yet at times switches to a blunt tone. Specifically, when delivering hard reality checks. I personally appreciated the conversations on abuse being more matter-of-fact than poetic. It felt respectful to the horrifying truth of abuse.
✧ Meaningful representation
✵ I love that this book has an asexual MC. I personally believe that shouldn't be something rare, but still is. Baird being gay and ace isn't just a footnote or a diversity checkmark. It's a huge part of his character, history, development and an important aspect to the plot.
✵ Though not as crucial to the plot as Baird's queerness, there is some disability representation, and aspects that can be relatable to people who deal with chronic pain.
✧ Baird is a layered and complex MC with a believable character arc. It's established quite early on that Baird likes control, order and predictability, or at least that is what his life has been shaped into.
He writes. He eats. He lives. Every day. Every month. Every year. What else really is there?
He is tightly wound, repressing aspects of himself and stuck in years of living the same day but he is definitely perfectly fine, right? Yeah for sure.... Definitely....
Baird reminds me a little of a ticking time bomb, a bucket waiting to spill, a match itching to spark aflame, which makes him a compelling character to share a headspace with.
✧ Exploration of (generational) trauma/abuse and its glorification/normalisation. As well as complex parental and sibling dynamics, diving into guilt, envy, jealousy and measured worth.
✵ Living weapon, one of my favourite tropes!! Though Baird is not exactly a weapon, he was made/born to fulfil a role and serve as a tool, and as such has been reduced to something non-human. His whole being is abated to being a curse-bearer and is thus dehumanised to a certain degree.
✵ Exploration of (bodily) autonomy, specifically the lack of it, which was extremely well written and explored on both a figurative and literal level.
It touches on learned helplessness; how keeping someone in a tightly controlled environment can lead to a lack of basic, social and survival skills, making it even harder to break away from such systems.
It also highlights how people who are always controlled, curated, and lack agency tend to look for that sense of control elsewhere.
✵ Break the Believer trope, complex and intriguing to read about, specifically when
✵ Baird is not a perfect victim, and I will praise any piece of media that grants this type of nuanced representation.
✵ Exploration of the cycle of abuse
"If you had a son, would you do the same to him?"
(...)
Baird clenches his jaw. "I don't have a son."
"But if you did, would you? "
"I-" Baird crosses his arms. "Maybe. Probably not."
"Because it hurts, (...) Because it's a terrible thing to torment those you're supposed to love."
✧ Sentient house, my beloved!!! Don't we all love it when a house is a character of its own? I don't think I've read a book before where a house had such a loud, influential and imposing voice as in 'The Ink Eater'. I just loved how big their presence was. Which brings me to my next point.
✧ The convolution of the house's demands and Baird's feelings. These two characters were way more intrinsically bound than I had expected, and it made for a truly intriguing, complex, toxic, co-dependent dynamic.
✧ There is a somewhat dual timeline storytelling due to the journal entries we get to read that Baird has written in the past, which I loved!! They give a lot of context.
✧ The short stories Baird writes are almost folkloric. It reminded me a bit of Don't let the forest in in the way they can be read as just that, stories, or analysed for what they represent/symbolise.
✧ Exploration of physical and non-physical pain through a multitude of facets
✵ Enforced and inherited/generational pain
✵ Pain as something familiar, constant and at times comforting.
✵ Self-chosen pain. When pain is constantly 'happening' to someone, it can be a relief to choose pain on one's own. This act of autonomy renders someone an active rather than a passive participant in these situations. I love how the author explored this nuanced aspect of searching for control in a harmful situation.
✵ Normalisation/minimisation of pain
✧ Consumption/hunger as a metaphor. A powerful symbolism through which connection, want and need are explored. Though not exactly , there is something adjacent happening here which I know all of us freaks are fascinated with.
He's hungry, and he wants to eat all the wrong things.
✧ Character-driven, emotion-focused with a high-stakes plot.
✧ Great for people who love CG Drews. There are some aspects of 'The Ink Eater', like intense yearning, complex dynamics, gothic vibes, exploration of trauma and dark whimsy, that I think would entice CG Drews enthusiasts.
✧ Thank god the love interest was not just barely 18, like many other books tend to do when the MC is immortal. I can't express how relieved I was when I found out the other MC was something ancient as well. Thank you, Alice G Brooks, for not doing that to your readers!
✧ The ending , and for that, I loved it.
What I didn't like/felt lacklustre about
✦ Some aspects of the romance weren't really my thing, which doesn't mean it's bad! It might be more of a personal preference.
✵ The change in pacing.
TLDR; Though the way the romance was written was believable from a character's standpoint, the pacing of the relationship towards the last third of the book wasn't my favourite.
✦ This book didn't really read as horror to me, which I didn't mind. I had just expected something different. Once again, this could just be a personal thing. I honestly might be desensitised after all the insane horror I've read, so really do take this with a grain of salt. It still delivers an enticing dark, moody and gothic atmosphere and is definitely something horror-adjacent though!
Conclusion/Notes
I was extremely excited for this gothic tragedy, and I'm glad to conclude that it definitely delivered!
'The Ink Eater' is an amazing, atmospheric, layered and Intricate exploration of familial legacies, enforced roles, generational trauma, the cycle of abuse, otherness and (bodily) autonomy.
Its relatability and immersiveness aren't diminished by its uniquely crafted fantasy setting. It only elevates these real-life emotions and dynamics. The characters in this world, though not exactly human (since a conditional immortal MC, sometimes-wind-sometimes-fox shapeshifter and a sentient house are defintly not the poster image of 'human) are still able to embody a human rawness. This book unveils how humans are flawed, at times awful, destructive, toxic and yet also capable of love, change and tenderness.
With its release date set in August of this year, this is the perfect read to pick up just in time for spooky season. I highly recommend it!
"With my last breath, I will serve."
⋆⁺₊⋆ ━━━━⊱༒︎ • ༒︎⊰━━━━ ⋆⁺₊⋆
Want to buddy read this book now or in the future? You can do so on Storygraph.
Follow me on Spotify for specific reading playlists like this one: 📚 This Connection Is Muddled With Rot | Overview of all playlists
May 19, 2026
4,75⭐️
What was that? And I mean this in the best way possible….
I had the huge honor of reading the ARC of this and wow. Just wow.
The concept of this book is something I’ve genuinely never read before.
First of all, how do you even come up with something like this? It’s so creative and so beautifully executed. I was completely fascinated by it.
And the writing style, just like in her other book, is incredibly beautiful to read. It’s lyrical without ever feeling difficult or distant. It flows so naturally and feels so real, which made it incredibly easy to fully sink into the story from the very beginning.
I knew this story was going to hurt. It’s mentioned multiple times that this is a tragic romance, but I still was not prepared for the emotional damage this book caused me.
So at 3am, unable to sleep because I’m sick and coughing my lungs out, I also ended up crying and giving myself a runny nose on top of everything else. So thank you very much for that.
I was already physically unwell, now mentally too. Not really sure how to feel about that.
But genuinely, no matter what book you write next, Alice G. Brooks, I will buy it and I will read it.
Loved it.
So, so good.
You did absolutely amazing!!
What was that? And I mean this in the best way possible….
I had the huge honor of reading the ARC of this and wow. Just wow.
The concept of this book is something I’ve genuinely never read before.
First of all, how do you even come up with something like this? It’s so creative and so beautifully executed. I was completely fascinated by it.
And the writing style, just like in her other book, is incredibly beautiful to read. It’s lyrical without ever feeling difficult or distant. It flows so naturally and feels so real, which made it incredibly easy to fully sink into the story from the very beginning.
I knew this story was going to hurt. It’s mentioned multiple times that this is a tragic romance, but I still was not prepared for the emotional damage this book caused me.
So at 3am, unable to sleep because I’m sick and coughing my lungs out, I also ended up crying and giving myself a runny nose on top of everything else. So thank you very much for that.
I was already physically unwell, now mentally too. Not really sure how to feel about that.
But genuinely, no matter what book you write next, Alice G. Brooks, I will buy it and I will read it.
Loved it.
So, so good.
You did absolutely amazing!!
May 10, 2026
Here we go again. I want to thank Alice, per usual. This time, for accepting me into their street team and trusting me to arc read this story. This is my third time reviewing Alice's books, and my second time needing to cope with the absolute mind fuckery that I experienced with this queer and literary masterpiece. I am going to keep this as brief as possible to avoid spoiler territory.
This is everything you could want from a gothic romantic tragedy. The Cardall Manor is a haunting setting and source of trauma for the main character, Baird. It is also quite literally a shelter to many of the themes: broken families and generational trauma, lack of control, and the internalized battle of sticking to legacy and fulfilling it vs. leading a life of freedom, despite the setbacks. And when that setback is a sentient house and a curse granting conditional immortality, you can imagine the conflict Baird faces. If you're an English nerd like me and need to geek out about the usage of classic gothic elements, then this is definitely a book to pick up.
Baird and Hemming are complex and lovely, perfect foils and a couple I rooted for until the very end. Reminder here: it is a gothic romantic TRAGEDY. Alice and I will forever remind the readers that there is NOT a happy ending (technically? We can debate that after you read it. Either way, it is well composed, well paced, and an utterly perfect conclusion to the story). Regardless, these two characters are wholesome, beautiful, and tragic all wrapped in one. Baird is restrained and obedient, obsessive and desperate for control, yet failing. Hemming is free-willed and wild spirited, a fox, the wind, a shooting star, everything he wants to be and even more. He, too, has a singular purpose: to help Baird with his century-long loneliness, persistent in his efforts. He is an absolute diva on the page, a source of comedic relief despite the dark setting and themes. He is my new comfort character that must be shared with the world.
The Ink Eater? More like I ATE this book up and couldn't possibly put it down. Please check this one out so we can talk and suffer together.
This is everything you could want from a gothic romantic tragedy. The Cardall Manor is a haunting setting and source of trauma for the main character, Baird. It is also quite literally a shelter to many of the themes: broken families and generational trauma, lack of control, and the internalized battle of sticking to legacy and fulfilling it vs. leading a life of freedom, despite the setbacks. And when that setback is a sentient house and a curse granting conditional immortality, you can imagine the conflict Baird faces. If you're an English nerd like me and need to geek out about the usage of classic gothic elements, then this is definitely a book to pick up.
Baird and Hemming are complex and lovely, perfect foils and a couple I rooted for until the very end. Reminder here: it is a gothic romantic TRAGEDY. Alice and I will forever remind the readers that there is NOT a happy ending (technically? We can debate that after you read it. Either way, it is well composed, well paced, and an utterly perfect conclusion to the story). Regardless, these two characters are wholesome, beautiful, and tragic all wrapped in one. Baird is restrained and obedient, obsessive and desperate for control, yet failing. Hemming is free-willed and wild spirited, a fox, the wind, a shooting star, everything he wants to be and even more. He, too, has a singular purpose: to help Baird with his century-long loneliness, persistent in his efforts. He is an absolute diva on the page, a source of comedic relief despite the dark setting and themes. He is my new comfort character that must be shared with the world.
The Ink Eater? More like I ATE this book up and couldn't possibly put it down. Please check this one out so we can talk and suffer together.
Read
May 23, 2026 Thank you to Alice G. Brooks for the eARC
That was an interesting read. Softer and tamer than what I expected, probably in part because I read "The book eaters" a while ago and just finished "The archive of the forgotten", two books with similar ideas regarding stories consumptions, but with a greater scope than "The ink eater".
Don't get me wrong, "The ink eater" isn't bad! Simply more contained, very interiority driven in a way, leading to less moraly ambiguous choices, something gothic really loves to do, usually. It made for a less horror tinged read that I had expected, and even the tragic side read less as tragic and more as a liberation (which, I know, is somewhat of a point for the story, but tragedy have more weight for me, aside from relief, generally). As a result, the romance, which starts as a slow burn before shifting geats, is a little less impactful that I had wished for. The length of the book also plays a role in that, I think.
That being said, the book is nice. The prose carries the story well, even when the pacing is faltering a bit because of the inner thoughts. The gothic atmosphere is there, the complexity of family and how it can bound and nuture you is there. Freedom and cycle of trauma play a huge role in this story, as well creating something new for oneself, and only for that, it's an important piece of art.
That was an interesting read. Softer and tamer than what I expected, probably in part because I read "The book eaters" a while ago and just finished "The archive of the forgotten", two books with similar ideas regarding stories consumptions, but with a greater scope than "The ink eater".
Don't get me wrong, "The ink eater" isn't bad! Simply more contained, very interiority driven in a way, leading to less moraly ambiguous choices, something gothic really loves to do, usually. It made for a less horror tinged read that I had expected, and even the tragic side read less as tragic and more as a liberation (which, I know, is somewhat of a point for the story, but tragedy have more weight for me, aside from relief, generally). As a result, the romance, which starts as a slow burn before shifting geats, is a little less impactful that I had wished for. The length of the book also plays a role in that, I think.
That being said, the book is nice. The prose carries the story well, even when the pacing is faltering a bit because of the inner thoughts. The gothic atmosphere is there, the complexity of family and how it can bound and nuture you is there. Freedom and cycle of trauma play a huge role in this story, as well creating something new for oneself, and only for that, it's an important piece of art.
May 29, 2026
wowowowow Alice G Brooks you evil genius—this is INCREDIBLE.
It's the quintessential gothic tragedy, 260-something-year-old Baird is trapped in servitude of a sentient house until he produces an heir and passes the curse down. The problem? He's gay, asexual, and unwilling to continue centuries worth of abuse and neglect for the sake of a curse that's done nothing but make him miserable.
Baird is such a sweet, messed up boy and I love both the asexual representation, and the representation of gentle male characters. Men are allowed to be weak, to be soft, to be confused and scared and want to be held!! His internal monologue made me cry innumerable times, and so did the gentleness with which Hemming treated him. Hemming is equally sweet and equally messed up, and I adored watching their relationship build, even if it could never end well for them.
Brook's writing style is lyrical and atmospheric and packs SO much emotion—this is an absolute must-read for anyone who enjoys gothic works (or feeling depressed). I was getting major CG Drews vibes from the writing style as well, which I absolutely adored (who up rocking with cannibalism as an expression of love and devotion!?)
In short, I love these fucked up, obsessive, sad, soft, eldritch horror boys and in my mind palace, they're living happily in a small cottage somewhere with their dozens of pets and closets full of sweaters that Baird knitted. Thank you and goodnight.
Finally, thank you so incredibly much to Alice G. Brooks for allowing me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! All opinions, as always, are my own :)
It's the quintessential gothic tragedy, 260-something-year-old Baird is trapped in servitude of a sentient house until he produces an heir and passes the curse down. The problem? He's gay, asexual, and unwilling to continue centuries worth of abuse and neglect for the sake of a curse that's done nothing but make him miserable.
Baird is such a sweet, messed up boy and I love both the asexual representation, and the representation of gentle male characters. Men are allowed to be weak, to be soft, to be confused and scared and want to be held!! His internal monologue made me cry innumerable times, and so did the gentleness with which Hemming treated him. Hemming is equally sweet and equally messed up, and I adored watching their relationship build, even if it could never end well for them.
Brook's writing style is lyrical and atmospheric and packs SO much emotion—this is an absolute must-read for anyone who enjoys gothic works (or feeling depressed). I was getting major CG Drews vibes from the writing style as well, which I absolutely adored (who up rocking with cannibalism as an expression of love and devotion!?)
In short, I love these fucked up, obsessive, sad, soft, eldritch horror boys and in my mind palace, they're living happily in a small cottage somewhere with their dozens of pets and closets full of sweaters that Baird knitted. Thank you and goodnight.
Finally, thank you so incredibly much to Alice G. Brooks for allowing me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! All opinions, as always, are my own :)
May 27, 2026
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to ARC read The Ink Eater. They did a fantastic job at tackling generational trauma and comphet.
It is definitely out of my comfort zone for the type of books I typically read, but it was so beautifully written that the immersion sucked me in nevertheless.
Fuck the house.
Fuck the insides
And especially fuck the paper boy.
I’m glad it ended the way it did, because really that’s the only way it ever could have ended. I’m very proud of Baird and I adored Hemming, especially in his fox form.
I would have loved to know more about the curses origins, though I understand that isn’t where the importance of the story lies.
If you enjoy gothic bittersweet tragedy’s then this is a must read.
It is definitely out of my comfort zone for the type of books I typically read, but it was so beautifully written that the immersion sucked me in nevertheless.
Fuck the house.
Fuck the insides
And especially fuck the paper boy.
I’m glad it ended the way it did, because really that’s the only way it ever could have ended. I’m very proud of Baird and I adored Hemming, especially in his fox form.
I would have loved to know more about the curses origins, though I understand that isn’t where the importance of the story lies.
If you enjoy gothic bittersweet tragedy’s then this is a must read.
June 19, 2026
This destroyed me 😭 so good, i loved the concept/plot which was so creative and truly thought-out and unique, as well as the characters. Wish it was a little longer!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was the first thing Baird did as the lone heir: remove the noose around his mother’s neck, and bury his parents in the gardens. He had always known the day would eventually come, but it had made him cry anyway.
Baird has been alive for more than two hundred years now, isolated and alone in the manor he’s been tied to thanks to a generational curse passed onto him. All he eats is ink from his own stories, stories fueled by trauma his parents were... kind enough to supply him with. One day, he writes a story about a shooting star, a devoted friend that never leaves - and here comes Hemming, a shapeshifter claiming to have been written into existence. And Baird, who knew nothing but abuse and two centuries of loneliness, is suddenly confronted with genuine care and attention he craves but can’t trust.
Alas, the manor is not happy with Hemming’s presence, and won’t be satisfied until it makes Baird consume the shifter...
The Ink Eater is classified by the author as gothic romantic tragedy, and - hell yes. A love story between a cursed immortal and the manifestation of his deepest longing for connection, though ultimately, it’s about ending the centuries of generational abuse and finally choosing oneself, at all costs. The lyrical writing is lovely, paying homage to Gothic literature. I got some slight CG Drews vibes, though it’s fair to say, not as effortless.
Everything feels a bit vague, from storytelling to characterization, but I’m inclined to believe it’s intentional, giving the book this dreamy quality of a fairytale, the brothers Grimm ones. Reading it felt like trying to trap smoke between your hands - the trick is to simply stop trying, and inhale deeply.
I found the asexuality rep to be well done, the kind I can relate to as it’s close to where I am on the spectrum. Baird being completely touch-starved and sex-repulsed was a killer combo that worked for me and showed how much he needed Hemming’s gentle care and devotion.
Some minor niggles kept me from enjoying it as a 5-star experience - there was a turning point for Baird and his less-than-stellar treatment of Hemming that came a bit abruptly; I would have appreciated a more gradual shift. Some descriptions were too repetitive, especially when it comes to Hemming and his physical appearance - I didn’t need to be told more than thirteen times how beautiful he is. And lastly, Baird can’t see from one of his eyes, but that disability is rendered inconsequential because it doesn’t affect him at all, so I’m not quite sure what the point was.
Overall, The Ink Eater is a melancholic story with a big bruised heart that learned to beat strongly again, only to realize the cruel fates won’t let it. I might not have sobbed the way I expected to, but I finished with tears in my eyes and a tight throat. That short, gorgeous epilogue will live inside me rent-free for eternity, together with the two boys 🥺
Be sure to check out the CWs - it IS a tragedy!
Big thank you to Alice G. Brooks for kindly allowing me to read and review their book in advance! The Ink Eater is set to be out on 16th August 2026.
Baird has been alive for more than two hundred years now, isolated and alone in the manor he’s been tied to thanks to a generational curse passed onto him. All he eats is ink from his own stories, stories fueled by trauma his parents were... kind enough to supply him with. One day, he writes a story about a shooting star, a devoted friend that never leaves - and here comes Hemming, a shapeshifter claiming to have been written into existence. And Baird, who knew nothing but abuse and two centuries of loneliness, is suddenly confronted with genuine care and attention he craves but can’t trust.
Alas, the manor is not happy with Hemming’s presence, and won’t be satisfied until it makes Baird consume the shifter...
The Ink Eater is classified by the author as gothic romantic tragedy, and - hell yes. A love story between a cursed immortal and the manifestation of his deepest longing for connection, though ultimately, it’s about ending the centuries of generational abuse and finally choosing oneself, at all costs. The lyrical writing is lovely, paying homage to Gothic literature. I got some slight CG Drews vibes, though it’s fair to say, not as effortless.
Everything feels a bit vague, from storytelling to characterization, but I’m inclined to believe it’s intentional, giving the book this dreamy quality of a fairytale, the brothers Grimm ones. Reading it felt like trying to trap smoke between your hands - the trick is to simply stop trying, and inhale deeply.
I found the asexuality rep to be well done, the kind I can relate to as it’s close to where I am on the spectrum. Baird being completely touch-starved and sex-repulsed was a killer combo that worked for me and showed how much he needed Hemming’s gentle care and devotion.
Some minor niggles kept me from enjoying it as a 5-star experience - there was a turning point for Baird and his less-than-stellar treatment of Hemming that came a bit abruptly; I would have appreciated a more gradual shift. Some descriptions were too repetitive, especially when it comes to Hemming and his physical appearance - I didn’t need to be told more than thirteen times how beautiful he is. And lastly, Baird can’t see from one of his eyes, but that disability is rendered inconsequential because it doesn’t affect him at all, so I’m not quite sure what the point was.
Overall, The Ink Eater is a melancholic story with a big bruised heart that learned to beat strongly again, only to realize the cruel fates won’t let it. I might not have sobbed the way I expected to, but I finished with tears in my eyes and a tight throat. That short, gorgeous epilogue will live inside me rent-free for eternity, together with the two boys 🥺
Be sure to check out the CWs - it IS a tragedy!
Big thank you to Alice G. Brooks for kindly allowing me to read and review their book in advance! The Ink Eater is set to be out on 16th August 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
[HUMONGOUS thanks to the author for sending me an early copy of their book!!!!]
throughout the story, one mantra keeps on coming back: "one does what one must do"
and one absolutely must read this book asap because it is just THAT good, i had to stop myself from reading it all in one go
the story is exactly what the premise promises: baird, two-century-old kind-of-immortal guy, lives a recluse in the family mansion to which his life is tied. he eats his own stories, relating his own trauma, to survive. but when one of his stories come to life (read: a really good-looking all-sorts-of-things guy named hemming), it makes HIM want to take back control over his own life.
i was sold from the start, to be honest, and i was not at all disappointed in the way the novel turned out. i particularly loved the author's writing style; the words they used, the way the sentences flowed, it was all very gorgeous, and very immersive as well. i wasn't expecting such an "interiorised" sort of narration, but i'm a big fan of those, so that was a nice surprise! it was interesting to truly notice how baird's thought pattern evolves, especially regarding his relationship with the mansion (and with hemming, too)
it was actually a little disturbing to read so much violence, rendered in such a "normal" way since we really are inside baird's head, despite the third-person perspective. he is constantly negotiating with the manor, or his "insides", as he calls them. it felt very similar to anxiety, ocd, or any other mental illness that has a "voice". it hit very close to home and i am not ashamed to admit i cried more than a couple of times throughout my read.
luckily, baird learns overtime that it is not healthy nor loving, and he decides to put it to an end and take control, thanks to hemming—an actually healthy and loving (boy)friend. but i did also find their relationship quite disturbing at times. i was always taking into consideration the option that the manor might be right, and hemming might really want the manor and baird's destruction, for some reason or another. i was just constantly scared he might turn round and kill him or something. for that reason, i struggled to fully enjoy their love story, not because it was bad (it was actually so endearing and they both deserve the whole wide world and i WILL give it to them one way or another) but because the manor's voice was just THAT overwhelming the whole time!!
as advertised, that book is a Tragedy, with a capital T because i still want to cry thinking about the ending! i hate it so much (/pos)!! i truly had hope it wouldn't end this way, but deep down, i know it was the only one possible, all things considered.
(please read this book. i'm on my knees.)
throughout the story, one mantra keeps on coming back: "one does what one must do"
and one absolutely must read this book asap because it is just THAT good, i had to stop myself from reading it all in one go
the story is exactly what the premise promises: baird, two-century-old kind-of-immortal guy, lives a recluse in the family mansion to which his life is tied. he eats his own stories, relating his own trauma, to survive. but when one of his stories come to life (read: a really good-looking all-sorts-of-things guy named hemming), it makes HIM want to take back control over his own life.
i was sold from the start, to be honest, and i was not at all disappointed in the way the novel turned out. i particularly loved the author's writing style; the words they used, the way the sentences flowed, it was all very gorgeous, and very immersive as well. i wasn't expecting such an "interiorised" sort of narration, but i'm a big fan of those, so that was a nice surprise! it was interesting to truly notice how baird's thought pattern evolves, especially regarding his relationship with the mansion (and with hemming, too)
it was actually a little disturbing to read so much violence, rendered in such a "normal" way since we really are inside baird's head, despite the third-person perspective. he is constantly negotiating with the manor, or his "insides", as he calls them. it felt very similar to anxiety, ocd, or any other mental illness that has a "voice". it hit very close to home and i am not ashamed to admit i cried more than a couple of times throughout my read.
luckily, baird learns overtime that it is not healthy nor loving, and he decides to put it to an end and take control, thanks to hemming—an actually healthy and loving (boy)friend. but i did also find their relationship quite disturbing at times. i was always taking into consideration the option that the manor might be right, and hemming might really want the manor and baird's destruction, for some reason or another. i was just constantly scared he might turn round and kill him or something. for that reason, i struggled to fully enjoy their love story, not because it was bad (it was actually so endearing and they both deserve the whole wide world and i WILL give it to them one way or another) but because the manor's voice was just THAT overwhelming the whole time!!
as advertised, that book is a Tragedy, with a capital T because i still want to cry thinking about the ending! i hate it so much (/pos)!! i truly had hope it wouldn't end this way, but deep down, i know it was the only one possible, all things considered.
(please read this book. i'm on my knees.)
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was incredible from start to finish. The character progression was beautiful and done in a way where, as the book progressed, I felt as though Baird both found himself and regressed so much emotionally. So many times we see the forward progression, but not the complete regression of a character throughout their story arc. In this, we mourned who Baird started as with reason to do so, and that’s rare in so many books. The other characters were also incredibly done. Hemming is anything and everything, and that’s shown in every aspect of his character. He is wise and knowing, but playful and has an almost naivety about him that feels adolescent. He is, again, anything and everything. The manor has a progression from start to end where it changes alongside the other characters. How you progress a HOUSE’S character is beyond me. Well done
The themes were represented so well. This was a heavy read with a lot of heavy topics and themes. Homophobia is addressed, and done in a way with the time periods used that makes sense. Generational trauma was shown again and again, and questioned from the first appearance of Hemming at the start of the book. I can’t even begin to tell you my favorite quotes, because so many of them hit home in ways I adore. I cried, laughed, and went back to bawling my eyes out several times throughout this book. Additionally, the weight was well written with the scenery. Even the more lighthearted scenes had this dark film over them where we truly were seeing through Baird’s eyes and his view of the world. Asexuality not being a thing that exists to Baird was incredible. His slow and confused, but resolute way of navigating asexuality was beautiful in a way that (quite literally) had me asking the author if she probed my brain for a few lines. Again, incredibly well done all around on balancing the weight of heavy themes while also addressing them fully.
**SPOILERS FOR THE ENDING FROM THIS POINT ON**
The conclusion to this book was done wonderfully. It was addressed several times throughout, and though it was devastating, it was how it had to end. The tragic ending was never once shy-ed away from. It was mentioned time and time again, in a way that in a sense gives the reader hope that “maybe it’ll be okay. maybe they’ll find a way around it.” They did not. And it can be so hard to let go of characters you adore, but this did just that. Hemming helping Baird to overcome his fears, and those once-fears being the very thing that sets him free was poetically stunning. The fire was just the perfect way to end this book. There was no true goodbye, just vague planning with desperate “I love you”s. It felt incomplete in the way that life so often feels incomplete. There is no beautiful conclusion or happy ending, just the reality of what Baird lived through. It was freedom for him, and that theme was never abandoned. Incredible read, now I’m going to go back to staring at my wall and crying😭♥️
The themes were represented so well. This was a heavy read with a lot of heavy topics and themes. Homophobia is addressed, and done in a way with the time periods used that makes sense. Generational trauma was shown again and again, and questioned from the first appearance of Hemming at the start of the book. I can’t even begin to tell you my favorite quotes, because so many of them hit home in ways I adore. I cried, laughed, and went back to bawling my eyes out several times throughout this book. Additionally, the weight was well written with the scenery. Even the more lighthearted scenes had this dark film over them where we truly were seeing through Baird’s eyes and his view of the world. Asexuality not being a thing that exists to Baird was incredible. His slow and confused, but resolute way of navigating asexuality was beautiful in a way that (quite literally) had me asking the author if she probed my brain for a few lines. Again, incredibly well done all around on balancing the weight of heavy themes while also addressing them fully.
**SPOILERS FOR THE ENDING FROM THIS POINT ON**
The conclusion to this book was done wonderfully. It was addressed several times throughout, and though it was devastating, it was how it had to end. The tragic ending was never once shy-ed away from. It was mentioned time and time again, in a way that in a sense gives the reader hope that “maybe it’ll be okay. maybe they’ll find a way around it.” They did not. And it can be so hard to let go of characters you adore, but this did just that. Hemming helping Baird to overcome his fears, and those once-fears being the very thing that sets him free was poetically stunning. The fire was just the perfect way to end this book. There was no true goodbye, just vague planning with desperate “I love you”s. It felt incomplete in the way that life so often feels incomplete. There is no beautiful conclusion or happy ending, just the reality of what Baird lived through. It was freedom for him, and that theme was never abandoned. Incredible read, now I’m going to go back to staring at my wall and crying😭♥️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so lucky (and very thankful) to receive an ARC of The Ink Eater
and this is my honest review and thoughts of the book.
This was such a moving story, full of depth and heart.
The premise of an ink eater was creative, the plot was build very nicely and the mood was certainly on point!
It was beautifully touching, haunting and devastating.
The story tackles themes such as generational trauma, sexuality, loneliness, self -worth, -harm and -discovery and wraps itself in beautiful layers, development and a love story ever so tender.
I loved how the book dealt with its vulnerability - the struggles, the overcoming, the acceptance and the defeat.
The characters of Baird and Hemming were everything!
I loved their development, their bonding and their relationship. How Hemming would give his everything for Baird, and how Baird reluctantly comes around and later feels Hemming becoming his very heart.
I loved the cruelty, manipulation and toxicity of the house. How it haunted and how it possessed (in an untraditional way).
The entire tone was moody and atmospheric, and I truly felt I was within its walls and within its grasp.
The very rhythm of the plot was cleverly woven together, making it a journey from the moment Baird and Hemming met, where Hemmings role is to guide and support Baird in his quest of self, development and independence. With the subject of freedom being heavily present, for Baird and Hemming both, in different ways.
I am not usually the type to cry over a book, when I know to expect something sad. I am prepared for the feeling and it doesn't hit AS hard. This is a tragedy. I knew. And I was excited to see it unfold.
Yet as I finished the Ink Eater, I was left with a lump in my throat and a tear making its way down my cheek. Well done.
The very relationship between Baird and Hemming, the affections, the very touches for the touch-starved Baird, Hemmings endearments and their very will to sacrifice everything for one another, made the story so tender, so loving and so dear that those two characters felt heard to part with as the story came to an end.
The ending, though final, had that wonderful open feeling to it, making me wish there is a happy ending, in some form or the other, for Baird and Hemming somewhere after the last page.
I really enjoyed the emotions and feelings of this book. The development, the journey and the gothic and mysterious mood.
and this is my honest review and thoughts of the book.
This was such a moving story, full of depth and heart.
The premise of an ink eater was creative, the plot was build very nicely and the mood was certainly on point!
It was beautifully touching, haunting and devastating.
The story tackles themes such as generational trauma, sexuality, loneliness, self -worth, -harm and -discovery and wraps itself in beautiful layers, development and a love story ever so tender.
I loved how the book dealt with its vulnerability - the struggles, the overcoming, the acceptance and the defeat.
The characters of Baird and Hemming were everything!
I loved their development, their bonding and their relationship. How Hemming would give his everything for Baird, and how Baird reluctantly comes around and later feels Hemming becoming his very heart.
I loved the cruelty, manipulation and toxicity of the house. How it haunted and how it possessed (in an untraditional way).
The entire tone was moody and atmospheric, and I truly felt I was within its walls and within its grasp.
The very rhythm of the plot was cleverly woven together, making it a journey from the moment Baird and Hemming met, where Hemmings role is to guide and support Baird in his quest of self, development and independence. With the subject of freedom being heavily present, for Baird and Hemming both, in different ways.
I am not usually the type to cry over a book, when I know to expect something sad. I am prepared for the feeling and it doesn't hit AS hard. This is a tragedy. I knew. And I was excited to see it unfold.
Yet as I finished the Ink Eater, I was left with a lump in my throat and a tear making its way down my cheek. Well done.
The very relationship between Baird and Hemming, the affections, the very touches for the touch-starved Baird, Hemmings endearments and their very will to sacrifice everything for one another, made the story so tender, so loving and so dear that those two characters felt heard to part with as the story came to an end.
The ending, though final, had that wonderful open feeling to it, making me wish there is a happy ending, in some form or the other, for Baird and Hemming somewhere after the last page.
I really enjoyed the emotions and feelings of this book. The development, the journey and the gothic and mysterious mood.
May 20, 2026
5⭐️
I loved this book. Granted, I went into it suspecting that I would just based on the summary (Sentient stories and a man who eats words? Yes, please!) But my expectations were both met and exceeded throughout my readthrough, and I couldn’t be happier for it. The story felt darkly whimsical throughout, and the ending/epilogue made me cry even though I thought I had prepared myself for a sad ending.
There are really only three major characters in this book - the MMC, his love interest, and the creepy sentient house. I loved all of them. The MMC was such an interesting character to explore and see the world through. I liked that he wasn’t a perfect character and was allowed to make mistakes and be rude and unpleasant to his love interest, as well as how he repeatedly tried to make up for those mistakes and be a better person despite everything he’d been through. The LI was fun and whimsical, and the author did a great job of making him feel both inhuman and yet still deeply relatable. The creepy sentient house was, of course, creepy, but I love evil inanimate objects so that was still a positive for me.
The story itself was great. Definitely more character driven than plot driven, but never in a way that felt like it was slow or dragging. The plot elements hit harder and mattered more because of how much time was dedicated to exploring the MMC’s thoughts and fears about the world around him and about himself.
The writing style was also really interesting - both the real-life author’s and the MMC’s. The main writing style was very easy to read and yet at times poetic in an almost blunt way, if that makes sense? It’s hard for me to describe, but it definitely works really well to set the tone of the book. And the short stories the MMC would write had a distinctly different voice to the book itself, which I think requires a lot of talent to pull off well.
TL;DR: A sad but beautiful and compelling story that is definitely worth the heartbreak. I fell in love with the characters and will be thinking about them for a long, long time.
Disclaimer: I received a free eARC of this book from the author. A review was not required in order to receive the eARC, and I am leaving one voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions expressed above are my own.
I loved this book. Granted, I went into it suspecting that I would just based on the summary (Sentient stories and a man who eats words? Yes, please!) But my expectations were both met and exceeded throughout my readthrough, and I couldn’t be happier for it. The story felt darkly whimsical throughout, and the ending/epilogue made me cry even though I thought I had prepared myself for a sad ending.
There are really only three major characters in this book - the MMC, his love interest, and the creepy sentient house. I loved all of them. The MMC was such an interesting character to explore and see the world through. I liked that he wasn’t a perfect character and was allowed to make mistakes and be rude and unpleasant to his love interest, as well as how he repeatedly tried to make up for those mistakes and be a better person despite everything he’d been through. The LI was fun and whimsical, and the author did a great job of making him feel both inhuman and yet still deeply relatable. The creepy sentient house was, of course, creepy, but I love evil inanimate objects so that was still a positive for me.
The story itself was great. Definitely more character driven than plot driven, but never in a way that felt like it was slow or dragging. The plot elements hit harder and mattered more because of how much time was dedicated to exploring the MMC’s thoughts and fears about the world around him and about himself.
The writing style was also really interesting - both the real-life author’s and the MMC’s. The main writing style was very easy to read and yet at times poetic in an almost blunt way, if that makes sense? It’s hard for me to describe, but it definitely works really well to set the tone of the book. And the short stories the MMC would write had a distinctly different voice to the book itself, which I think requires a lot of talent to pull off well.
TL;DR: A sad but beautiful and compelling story that is definitely worth the heartbreak. I fell in love with the characters and will be thinking about them for a long, long time.
Disclaimer: I received a free eARC of this book from the author. A review was not required in order to receive the eARC, and I am leaving one voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions expressed above are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5/5
Somehow, The Ink Eater reminded me of Corinna Bille writing, in the way it embraces an almost dreamlike atmosphere. It feels like one of those stories where if you tried to pin down exactly what was happening it would lose part of its magic.
To me, The Ink Eater is mainly about willingly giving pieces of yourself in order to fit in and be loved. And about a boy who only wish to exist peacefully while the world refuses to let him. There are of course countless other layers that keep unfolding the more you sit with the story, but what impressed me most, is how well the many themes are expressed through the writing, as well as visually through the story itself.
“You’ve been killing yourself just to stay alive.”
However, I believe the book's only weak point also lies in its writing. Despite repeatedly reminding us that one of the main character is over two hundred years old, his voice and way of thinking still felt a little too modern. I just think this kind of timeless gothic atmosphere is difficult to pull off, and that there it didn't completely land for me.
That said, it didn’t take away from what I believe the author does best: characters. The contrast between Hemming gentle and unwavering presence and Baird struggles to remain stable while being pulled apart internally makes their dynamic quite interesting. Even more so as their relation builds toward quiet understanding. And I can’t think of anything more romantic than being fully understood.
“my love, you are not broken. You are whole, and you don't need to fix or change anything.”
Even knowing exactly where their story was heading, I couldn't stop hoping for a different ending. But at the same time, I genuinely don't think any other conclusion would have felt as honest. It circles back beautifully, making the tragedy feel inevitable rather than cruel.
“And so it came that the moon wished for a companion. Somebody who would sing with him, who would touch him, who would ask him how he felt. He asked for a friend every single night, until finally, the Gods heard him plead. They sent him a partner. It was a shooting star by the name of Hemming, who ran in circles around the moon’s body…”
Somehow, The Ink Eater reminded me of Corinna Bille writing, in the way it embraces an almost dreamlike atmosphere. It feels like one of those stories where if you tried to pin down exactly what was happening it would lose part of its magic.
To me, The Ink Eater is mainly about willingly giving pieces of yourself in order to fit in and be loved. And about a boy who only wish to exist peacefully while the world refuses to let him. There are of course countless other layers that keep unfolding the more you sit with the story, but what impressed me most, is how well the many themes are expressed through the writing, as well as visually through the story itself.
“You’ve been killing yourself just to stay alive.”
However, I believe the book's only weak point also lies in its writing. Despite repeatedly reminding us that one of the main character is over two hundred years old, his voice and way of thinking still felt a little too modern. I just think this kind of timeless gothic atmosphere is difficult to pull off, and that there it didn't completely land for me.
That said, it didn’t take away from what I believe the author does best: characters. The contrast between Hemming gentle and unwavering presence and Baird struggles to remain stable while being pulled apart internally makes their dynamic quite interesting. Even more so as their relation builds toward quiet understanding. And I can’t think of anything more romantic than being fully understood.
“my love, you are not broken. You are whole, and you don't need to fix or change anything.”
Even knowing exactly where their story was heading, I couldn't stop hoping for a different ending. But at the same time, I genuinely don't think any other conclusion would have felt as honest. It circles back beautifully, making the tragedy feel inevitable rather than cruel.
“And so it came that the moon wished for a companion. Somebody who would sing with him, who would touch him, who would ask him how he felt. He asked for a friend every single night, until finally, the Gods heard him plead. They sent him a partner. It was a shooting star by the name of Hemming, who ran in circles around the moon’s body…”
Review of advance copy
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Alice G. Brooks in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this story!!
I'm dead serious when I say that I've never cried for a book — in general, it's really hard for me to cry. And yet, our amazing author did manage quite well to make me sob my eyes out for two hours straight. Insanity.
Where do I even start??? The concept of the story got me wrapped around its finger right from the start. First time applying for an ARC copy and BOOM, I have a new reason to find a therapist. A sentient house, a guy who has an arm that is, and I quote, “More scar than skin.”, and a shapeshifter that comes to life because of the latter's stories? What the hell, sure. /ref
The characters are so loveable and real and ohmygod. Baird is such a layered character — he goes through so much, and I was so happy to finally see him smile. I loved how human he was and allowed to make mistakes, such as being rude to Hemming or just being "selfish" in his own way. He pours all his soul and heart into what he does, and I've found myself relating to him quite a handful of times. Same goes for Hemming, my sweet boy, so curious about everything but especially his love; he holds Baird's hand no matter what they're going through. Such small gestures but I promise you, to a 262 years old man they mean the world and more.
Their relationship is one of a kind; depending on someone so much you actually get sick??? oh I'm so fucking done. Yes yes YES!!! PLEASE!!!!! I AM BEGGING ON MY KNEES!!!!!! I'm such a sucker for codependency, and this book portrayed it amazingly.
The quote “With my last breath, I shall serve.” haunts the whole narrative in a (and I'm not sorry for what I'm about to compare it to) Johan-Liebert-from-Monster way. You can feel it rattle in your bones in almost everything that Baird does and says, and it makes you feel as uneasy as he has felt for the past two centuries
The style is, as usual, smooth and poetic and so immersive. Alice is genuinely my favorite author, their writing is unique and captivating you will never put the book dowI, I promise; and if you do, you'll feel bad about it, even.
I read 25% of the book while skipping two hours of PE and when the bell rang I looked around and was so confused, “Where am I? Am I dead?”. Nope, Alexander, you're just sunbathing on a chair in the middle of no-fucking-where, (un)fortunately for you.
I can't wait for this book to come out. As soon as I finished my ARC copy I texted my boyfriend crying and with thousands of spelling mistakes, he got so worried and honestly as he SHOULD because this book DESTROYED me.
How do I give more than five stars? Can I give thousands of them, like the stars in the sky and in the universe?? No??? Meanies.
I'm dead serious when I say that I've never cried for a book — in general, it's really hard for me to cry. And yet, our amazing author did manage quite well to make me sob my eyes out for two hours straight. Insanity.
Where do I even start??? The concept of the story got me wrapped around its finger right from the start. First time applying for an ARC copy and BOOM, I have a new reason to find a therapist. A sentient house, a guy who has an arm that is, and I quote, “More scar than skin.”, and a shapeshifter that comes to life because of the latter's stories? What the hell, sure. /ref
The characters are so loveable and real and ohmygod. Baird is such a layered character — he goes through so much, and I was so happy to finally see him smile. I loved how human he was and allowed to make mistakes, such as being rude to Hemming or just being "selfish" in his own way. He pours all his soul and heart into what he does, and I've found myself relating to him quite a handful of times. Same goes for Hemming, my sweet boy, so curious about everything but especially his love; he holds Baird's hand no matter what they're going through. Such small gestures but I promise you, to a 262 years old man they mean the world and more.
Their relationship is one of a kind; depending on someone so much you actually get sick??? oh I'm so fucking done. Yes yes YES!!! PLEASE!!!!! I AM BEGGING ON MY KNEES!!!!!! I'm such a sucker for codependency, and this book portrayed it amazingly.
The quote “With my last breath, I shall serve.” haunts the whole narrative in a (and I'm not sorry for what I'm about to compare it to) Johan-Liebert-from-Monster way. You can feel it rattle in your bones in almost everything that Baird does and says, and it makes you feel as uneasy as he has felt for the past two centuries
The style is, as usual, smooth and poetic and so immersive. Alice is genuinely my favorite author, their writing is unique and captivating you will never put the book dowI, I promise; and if you do, you'll feel bad about it, even.
I read 25% of the book while skipping two hours of PE and when the bell rang I looked around and was so confused, “Where am I? Am I dead?”. Nope, Alexander, you're just sunbathing on a chair in the middle of no-fucking-where, (un)fortunately for you.
I can't wait for this book to come out. As soon as I finished my ARC copy I texted my boyfriend crying and with thousands of spelling mistakes, he got so worried and honestly as he SHOULD because this book DESTROYED me.
How do I give more than five stars? Can I give thousands of them, like the stars in the sky and in the universe?? No??? Meanies.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much @alicebrookswrites for the eARC!
I knew I would love this book, yet nothing could have prepared me for just HOW MUCH. I’m unable to listen to a single song without thinking of them. Baird and Hemming mean EVERYTHING to me.
Five stars. That’s the review.
No, but in all seriousness, if this book is not on your TBR, please do yourself a favour and add it now! Actually, scratch that, just go ahead and pre-order it!
The way Alice writes characters and their chemistry is SO WELL DONE! It’s hard to explain it but whenever I’m reading a book, I always think to myself “oh yes these are characters” but with Baird and Hemming, they felt SO REAL to me. And as a character driven reader, I ATE that up like Baird eating ink. That’s not to say the plot was underdeveloped, because oh no, it built tension SPLENDIDLY. Toward the end of the book, I was terrified of the damn manor.
As an asexual reader, Baird being asexual yet still craving love and affection means A LOT to me. This representation was clearly written with a lot of intent and care, and Baird is now one of my favourite asexual characters EVER!
Hemming my beloved. Oh how I adore him. His character is so interesting. A shapeshifter born from Baird’s stories to someone Baird is willing to change his LIFE for! Even though Hemming was my favourite, I saw a lot of myself in Baird. His fear of leaving the house, his fear of disappointing his parents, his fear of being sinful—it all hit so close to home and I just really empathised with him.
I LOVED everything about this book. The gothic vibes, the sentient house, the toxic codependency, the romantic tragedy, the characters. I can’t recommend it enough!
I knew I would love this book, yet nothing could have prepared me for just HOW MUCH. I’m unable to listen to a single song without thinking of them. Baird and Hemming mean EVERYTHING to me.
Five stars. That’s the review.
No, but in all seriousness, if this book is not on your TBR, please do yourself a favour and add it now! Actually, scratch that, just go ahead and pre-order it!
The way Alice writes characters and their chemistry is SO WELL DONE! It’s hard to explain it but whenever I’m reading a book, I always think to myself “oh yes these are characters” but with Baird and Hemming, they felt SO REAL to me. And as a character driven reader, I ATE that up like Baird eating ink. That’s not to say the plot was underdeveloped, because oh no, it built tension SPLENDIDLY. Toward the end of the book, I was terrified of the damn manor.
As an asexual reader, Baird being asexual yet still craving love and affection means A LOT to me. This representation was clearly written with a lot of intent and care, and Baird is now one of my favourite asexual characters EVER!
Hemming my beloved. Oh how I adore him. His character is so interesting. A shapeshifter born from Baird’s stories to someone Baird is willing to change his LIFE for! Even though Hemming was my favourite, I saw a lot of myself in Baird. His fear of leaving the house, his fear of disappointing his parents, his fear of being sinful—it all hit so close to home and I just really empathised with him.
I LOVED everything about this book. The gothic vibes, the sentient house, the toxic codependency, the romantic tragedy, the characters. I can’t recommend it enough!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a free e-arc from the author in exchange for an honest opinion.
I honestly don't know what to say about this book. It was a wild ride from start to finish. If you're a fan of CG Drews books, especially Don't Let the Forest In, you will most likely enjoy this. Make sure to pay attention to the trigger warnings provided, as well as the fact that this book is a tragedy because the author is serious about these.
Hemming and Baird are both wonderful characters to read, and play off of each other very well. I honestly liked Hemming more than I liked Baird, but they both absolutely had their issues. Their relationship is far from a healthy one even at the best of times. Due to this it's impossible to ever root for their relationship, even when you really want to. For the purposes of this book I see that as a good thing.
Even though Baird at least is absolutely an adult and has lived for 200 years, both he and Hemming act like children. I believe there is a reason for this but even so at times towards the beginning it was a bit frustrating. Thankfully you get used to it after a while, especially as you learn more of why he is the way he is.
One thing I do wish we had more of is how the curse came to exist. It sounds very vampiric (but with ink and stories instead), but there's never a concrete answer as to how or why the curse happened. For something obsessed with stories you'd think that might be one that was saved. Perhaps it was tasty instead.
Overall, if you are in the mood for a tragedy and like CG Drews books, this is the book for you. I personally can't wait to see it in ink.
I honestly don't know what to say about this book. It was a wild ride from start to finish. If you're a fan of CG Drews books, especially Don't Let the Forest In, you will most likely enjoy this. Make sure to pay attention to the trigger warnings provided, as well as the fact that this book is a tragedy because the author is serious about these.
Hemming and Baird are both wonderful characters to read, and play off of each other very well. I honestly liked Hemming more than I liked Baird, but they both absolutely had their issues. Their relationship is far from a healthy one even at the best of times. Due to this it's impossible to ever root for their relationship, even when you really want to. For the purposes of this book I see that as a good thing.
Even though Baird at least is absolutely an adult and has lived for 200 years, both he and Hemming act like children. I believe there is a reason for this but even so at times towards the beginning it was a bit frustrating. Thankfully you get used to it after a while, especially as you learn more of why he is the way he is.
One thing I do wish we had more of is how the curse came to exist. It sounds very vampiric (but with ink and stories instead), but there's never a concrete answer as to how or why the curse happened. For something obsessed with stories you'd think that might be one that was saved. Perhaps it was tasty instead.
Overall, if you are in the mood for a tragedy and like CG Drews books, this is the book for you. I personally can't wait to see it in ink.
June 5, 2026
An intense, dark, gripping romantic thriller. If I had a nickel for every time I've read a book with an ink/word/story eating asexual MC that I absolutely adored, I'd have two nickels... I look forward to any future engagement I have with this niche because I absolutely love it. Of course, I always love seeing asexual representation, and queer horror narratives are the best, so this book is a beautiful marrying of those themes. And angsty, ancient, asexual, traumatised by a past foray into romance, traumatised by his abusive upbringing, surrounded by his own stories, which he eats to keep his family home standing. He and the house are connected, in appetite, in fear, in loneliness. The accidental summoning of a friend from paper makes his whole life turn upside down, his desires and the house's no longer aligned, his hunger increasingly overwhelming.
This book is viscerally evocative, full of in depth descriptions of hunger, of pain, of sacrifice, of desperation. It is also full of short stories, tied to the narrative but their own beautiful examples of short prose, which are a fun addition. The balance struck between despair and joy, satisfaction and hunger, emptiness and love, hope and finality, is perfect. Once the MC accepts his life has changed for good, the burden he has shouldered for centuries, the fear he has carried, the connection he is trapped within, the subservience expected of him all crushing, the moments of gentle joy build. The ending is dramatic and bittersweet and beautiful.
An evocative, engaging read, horrific and beautiful.
This book is viscerally evocative, full of in depth descriptions of hunger, of pain, of sacrifice, of desperation. It is also full of short stories, tied to the narrative but their own beautiful examples of short prose, which are a fun addition. The balance struck between despair and joy, satisfaction and hunger, emptiness and love, hope and finality, is perfect. Once the MC accepts his life has changed for good, the burden he has shouldered for centuries, the fear he has carried, the connection he is trapped within, the subservience expected of him all crushing, the moments of gentle joy build. The ending is dramatic and bittersweet and beautiful.
An evocative, engaging read, horrific and beautiful.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Please don’t ever apologize for being happy.”
i stayed up til 1 am til 1 percent battery to read this and now im crying
THE INK EATER!!! this might be one of my favorite reads of the year??
the concept hooked me, a gothic manor that's its own character, an ink eater who serves and is the manor and writes stories to sustain it and himself, and a shapeshifter from his story... the core of the tragedy is that the ink eater is trapped in this manor and his family duty, never living for himself... the ink eater has to come to terms with his trauma and abuse and all the things denied from him
while the house wants him to eat his stories... and by consequence the shape shifter aka his only friend ever
i loved the asexual rep, a sex averse character that still craves other forms of intimacy... trapped by social and familial expectations ... and the romance between the ink eater and the shapeshifter is so sweet to the point of worship yet tragic
gothic tragedy. you will cry
doomed yaoi. very doomed
if you liked don't let the forest in... you'll love this book... similar vibes, tragedy, ace mc that pours his soul into ink
(arc copy for review)
i stayed up til 1 am til 1 percent battery to read this and now im crying
THE INK EATER!!! this might be one of my favorite reads of the year??
the concept hooked me, a gothic manor that's its own character, an ink eater who serves and is the manor and writes stories to sustain it and himself, and a shapeshifter from his story... the core of the tragedy is that the ink eater is trapped in this manor and his family duty, never living for himself... the ink eater has to come to terms with his trauma and abuse and all the things denied from him
while the house wants him to eat his stories... and by consequence the shape shifter aka his only friend ever
i loved the asexual rep, a sex averse character that still craves other forms of intimacy... trapped by social and familial expectations ... and the romance between the ink eater and the shapeshifter is so sweet to the point of worship yet tragic
gothic tragedy. you will cry
doomed yaoi. very doomed
if you liked don't let the forest in... you'll love this book... similar vibes, tragedy, ace mc that pours his soul into ink
(arc copy for review)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2026
Oh.. So yeahhh, going in I knew from the start this was a Romantic Tragedy, but like honestly.. the audacity to make it tragic?
Shame! | loved every second of it. This was such a great palette cleanser, I've had my fair share of HEA's lately! Honesty, I couldn't have asked for more, I knew what I was getting myself into, but I got way more than ! anticipated! Alice did such a phenomenal job showing the emotional, and generational abuse. All the trauma that was touched on was done so well.
Plus who doesn't love a shapeshifter, a sentient house, and someone who literally writes and eats their stories because they're cursed?! Baird and Hemming were beyond meant for each other. The ending was well, you guessed it. Tragic. But ya know what, it's fine, everything's fine, we are gonna pretend otherwise! I feel like I have so much to say, but I don't want any spoilers given. I'll say, just read it. It's sad, tragic, has its fun moments, dark moments, sentimental moments, and more! 10/10. Alice, I'll take 74 more! Can't wait for what you're cooking next, cause I'd love more like this! Will be forever stalking our Street Team chat!
Shame! | loved every second of it. This was such a great palette cleanser, I've had my fair share of HEA's lately! Honesty, I couldn't have asked for more, I knew what I was getting myself into, but I got way more than ! anticipated! Alice did such a phenomenal job showing the emotional, and generational abuse. All the trauma that was touched on was done so well.
Plus who doesn't love a shapeshifter, a sentient house, and someone who literally writes and eats their stories because they're cursed?! Baird and Hemming were beyond meant for each other. The ending was well, you guessed it. Tragic. But ya know what, it's fine, everything's fine, we are gonna pretend otherwise! I feel like I have so much to say, but I don't want any spoilers given. I'll say, just read it. It's sad, tragic, has its fun moments, dark moments, sentimental moments, and more! 10/10. Alice, I'll take 74 more! Can't wait for what you're cooking next, cause I'd love more like this! Will be forever stalking our Street Team chat!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to the author for the arc! All opinions expressed in this honest review are my own.
Okay this is incredibly unrelated but all I could think about was the fact that, if he was from Europe like I suspected, Baird probably never knew America existed. Is that important at all? No. But seeing that his story started in the 1770s and I’m just a Dumb American it was very strange to think about.
I debated DNF’ing several times throughout the first 50% or so. I was bored. A lot of nothing happened. It draaaaaaagged. Hemming annoyed me because he felt very childish. Baird annoyed me because he felt way too toxic and controlling.
This book had all the elements of something gothic: a strange, sentient house, the past haunting the MC quite literally, everything being dark and gloomy, etc. However, this book was not horror in the slightest, and maybe that’s what bored me. I like my gothic to be spooky. Up until the very end this almost felt…cozy? And, look, as a goth who loves the idea of snuggling up by a fireplace in an old mansion with a good book and a healthy dose of phantoms, gothic and cozy just don’t mesh. I’m not going to let my neurodivergence take charge here and explain the nuances of the two subgenres and how they don’t really mix well. But cozy gothic is a huge turnoff for me. When I read gothic fiction I want to feel the existential dread. I want my heart to pound like that beneath the floorboards. And going in knowing this is a tragedy? I don’t know. You’d think there would be more of a build up to that.
Without spoiling, I will say I liked the ending. Tragedies are my favorite. But with very little build up and a somewhat sloppy execution it just wasn’t as good as it could have been.
I did love the asexual rep and I did think Baird and Hemming had SOME chemistry (even if it was a teensy bit cannibalistic) (is it cannibalistic if one isn’t human?). I feel like this story could’ve used a bit more polishing and a bit more Dread to make it better. I’m glad I didn’t DNF but I won’t reread this book.
If you’re just starting to dip your toes into the unsettling pool of gothic lit, this might be a good starting place for you (if you’re not ready for a deep dive into Poe and everything that came after him).
Okay this is incredibly unrelated but all I could think about was the fact that, if he was from Europe like I suspected, Baird probably never knew America existed. Is that important at all? No. But seeing that his story started in the 1770s and I’m just a Dumb American it was very strange to think about.
I debated DNF’ing several times throughout the first 50% or so. I was bored. A lot of nothing happened. It draaaaaaagged. Hemming annoyed me because he felt very childish. Baird annoyed me because he felt way too toxic and controlling.
This book had all the elements of something gothic: a strange, sentient house, the past haunting the MC quite literally, everything being dark and gloomy, etc. However, this book was not horror in the slightest, and maybe that’s what bored me. I like my gothic to be spooky. Up until the very end this almost felt…cozy? And, look, as a goth who loves the idea of snuggling up by a fireplace in an old mansion with a good book and a healthy dose of phantoms, gothic and cozy just don’t mesh. I’m not going to let my neurodivergence take charge here and explain the nuances of the two subgenres and how they don’t really mix well. But cozy gothic is a huge turnoff for me. When I read gothic fiction I want to feel the existential dread. I want my heart to pound like that beneath the floorboards. And going in knowing this is a tragedy? I don’t know. You’d think there would be more of a build up to that.
Without spoiling, I will say I liked the ending. Tragedies are my favorite. But with very little build up and a somewhat sloppy execution it just wasn’t as good as it could have been.
I did love the asexual rep and I did think Baird and Hemming had SOME chemistry (even if it was a teensy bit cannibalistic) (is it cannibalistic if one isn’t human?). I feel like this story could’ve used a bit more polishing and a bit more Dread to make it better. I’m glad I didn’t DNF but I won’t reread this book.
If you’re just starting to dip your toes into the unsettling pool of gothic lit, this might be a good starting place for you (if you’re not ready for a deep dive into Poe and everything that came after him).
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is a masterpiece. From the first page, I was pulled in by the stunning use of language, the incredibly deep and complex characters and the gothic tragic feel of this story. This book made me laugh, cry, fall in love and cry all over again, and will stay with me for a long time. This is definitely one of those books that I want on my shelf for re-reads, because the depths of this novel go so much deeper than just the words on the pages.
The representation in this story and message mean so much, and I hope this novel becomes well-known for the masterpiece that it is.
This author is one of my absolute favorites, again and again they manage to make me feel so deeply, long after the last page has been read. This is the third book of their's that I have read, and I have honestly not been able to put any of them down.
I would suggest this book to anyone who likes gothic tragedies with deep and realistically flawed characters, to anyone who loves amazingly cute banter, and of course to anyone who wants to fall deeply in love with a story.
The representation in this story and message mean so much, and I hope this novel becomes well-known for the masterpiece that it is.
This author is one of my absolute favorites, again and again they manage to make me feel so deeply, long after the last page has been read. This is the third book of their's that I have read, and I have honestly not been able to put any of them down.
I would suggest this book to anyone who likes gothic tragedies with deep and realistically flawed characters, to anyone who loves amazingly cute banter, and of course to anyone who wants to fall deeply in love with a story.
May 19, 2026
I was so excited to receive an ARC, started reading it yesterday and finished it this morning. I’m still trying to digest the story as I sit here, and I’m not sure how I’ll return to life without these boys.
The Ink Eater is beautifully written. I love Alice’s style of writing, lovely direct prose without distracting fluff. It feels very considered and every word feels deliberate.
Her characters are so wholesome, I love Baird and Hemming both equally. The issues Baird carries were dealt with well and I enjoyed his emotional arc. Such beautiful boys.
I feel like I need to come back to this review when I’ve given myself a chance to come back to reality. A fantastic story, well done Alice.
The Ink Eater is beautifully written. I love Alice’s style of writing, lovely direct prose without distracting fluff. It feels very considered and every word feels deliberate.
Her characters are so wholesome, I love Baird and Hemming both equally. The issues Baird carries were dealt with well and I enjoyed his emotional arc. Such beautiful boys.
I feel like I need to come back to this review when I’ve given myself a chance to come back to reality. A fantastic story, well done Alice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Alice G. Brooks is one of those authors who writes in a way that feels poetic. This book is no exception to that, it feels written like a classic from the previous century!
Though sadly, i was not really able to connect much with this book myself, even though i did enjoy it! It ended up just not being my forte!
I loved Baird and Hemmings relationship, even if it was a bit toxic they were so cute together. Hemming is such a sweetheart who isnt afraid to speak his mind, and baird is one who struggles with connection. But eventually, they let eachother in and they become such a powercouple.
I also really loved the gothic vibes, it was often eerie and creepy and i loved that so and so much!
Though sadly, i was not really able to connect much with this book myself, even though i did enjoy it! It ended up just not being my forte!
I loved Baird and Hemmings relationship, even if it was a bit toxic they were so cute together. Hemming is such a sweetheart who isnt afraid to speak his mind, and baird is one who struggles with connection. But eventually, they let eachother in and they become such a powercouple.
I also really loved the gothic vibes, it was often eerie and creepy and i loved that so and so much!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this arc from the author! Very grateful for being able to read this early.
Before starting this story the authors note emphasises that this is a tragedy. it IS a tragedy so be warned.
Each chapter has a beautiful initial drop cap with a lovely gothic feel. I also appreciated seeing snippets of Baird's diary throughout the story.
Brooks has improved from their last published book I felt that the characters were built better and developed nicely. In my opinion the start of the book where Baird was getting used to Hemming could've been refined slightly but I still thoroughly enjoyed this novel
Before starting this story the authors note emphasises that this is a tragedy. it IS a tragedy so be warned.
Each chapter has a beautiful initial drop cap with a lovely gothic feel. I also appreciated seeing snippets of Baird's diary throughout the story.
Brooks has improved from their last published book I felt that the characters were built better and developed nicely. In my opinion the start of the book where Baird was getting used to Hemming could've been refined slightly but I still thoroughly enjoyed this novel
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm at a loss for words. As soon as I finished this book, I was hit with an overwhelming sense of sadness.
The writing is very good, and the ambiguity and absurdity appear deliberate. I enjoy how the author depicts Baird's emotions (though I'm somewhat unsure how to pronounce his name), and the sudden change in the dynamic between Hemmings and Baird seems abrupt but intentional—perhaps he wanted to be kind initially, and 'his insides' held him back. The whole story feels quite bizarre, and it hits the mark of tragedy perfectly!
I appreciate that it doesn't shy away from difficult themes. Regarding the ending: once the manor forces Baird to make a choice, it’s the end; and it feels like witnessing a legacy's conclusion.
The writing is very good, and the ambiguity and absurdity appear deliberate. I enjoy how the author depicts Baird's emotions (though I'm somewhat unsure how to pronounce his name), and the sudden change in the dynamic between Hemmings and Baird seems abrupt but intentional—perhaps he wanted to be kind initially, and 'his insides' held him back. The whole story feels quite bizarre, and it hits the mark of tragedy perfectly!
I appreciate that it doesn't shy away from difficult themes. Regarding the ending: once the manor forces Baird to make a choice, it’s the end; and it feels like witnessing a legacy's conclusion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I would inhale you if I could.”
alice brooks always sucker punches me right in my very soul. baird and hemming very quickly have worked their way into my heart and i think i’ll be keeping them there for a very long time.
there’s something so heartachingly wholesome and bittersweet about these two. they’re raw and real and painfully sweet. doomed by the narrative, but trying their best to escape it anyways.
i’m ?!?!?!?2&93(8!,???!3 my heart hurts and i Knew this book was going to. i walked right into a burning house and came out an emotional wreck. thanks AGB <3
alice brooks always sucker punches me right in my very soul. baird and hemming very quickly have worked their way into my heart and i think i’ll be keeping them there for a very long time.
there’s something so heartachingly wholesome and bittersweet about these two. they’re raw and real and painfully sweet. doomed by the narrative, but trying their best to escape it anyways.
i’m ?!?!?!?2&93(8!,???!3 my heart hurts and i Knew this book was going to. i walked right into a burning house and came out an emotional wreck. thanks AGB <3
Review of advance copy received from Author
I instantly fell in love with these two characters. They are wholesome, beautiful, and tragically complex all at once. Baird is restrained and painfully obedient-obsessive and desperate for control, but ultimately failing.
Hemming is free-spirited and wild: a fox, the wind, a shooting star-everything Baird wishes he could be and more. He, too, has a singular purpose:
To accompany Baird and ease his century-long loneliness, persistently and devotedly. Hemming is an absolute diva on the page, providing comic relief despite the storys dark setting and themes.
Hemming is free-spirited and wild: a fox, the wind, a shooting star-everything Baird wishes he could be and more. He, too, has a singular purpose:
To accompany Baird and ease his century-long loneliness, persistently and devotedly. Hemming is an absolute diva on the page, providing comic relief despite the storys dark setting and themes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC directly from the author !
ABSOLUTE CINEMA
The characters were so interesting and loving and the whole sentient house thing was sooo cool !!!
This book is beautifuly written and I literally devoured it !
And remember people
HEMMING THE FROG IS REAL AND CANON
ABSOLUTE CINEMA
The characters were so interesting and loving and the whole sentient house thing was sooo cool !!!
This book is beautifuly written and I literally devoured it !
And remember people
HEMMING THE FROG IS REAL AND CANON
Review of advance copy received from Author
OH MY FU-
I'll be back here after writing a review. Oh my god, Alice is my new favorite author. I need more.
I'll be back here after writing a review. Oh my god, Alice is my new favorite author. I need more.
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