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The Spires
A troubled woman becomes consumed by a past she’s desperate to forget in this unsettling psychological thriller from the New York Times bestselling author of The Vanishing Year.
Strung between two teenagers, an unemployed husband, and a tenuous career, Penelope Cox barely has her life together when the past comes knocking at her door. Willa Blaine, her old roommate, needs her help: refuge from an abusive husband. “Two weeks tops,” she says―but it’s not the imposition that bothers Penelope; it’s the memories Willa brings with her.
Twenty years earlier, Penelope, Willa, and three friends lived together in a converted church. Insular and closed off from the rest of the world, the five roommates formed their own dysfunctional family, celebrating the pinnacle of their lives; they called themselves “the Spires.” But nights of wild parties gave way to a darker undercurrent: jealousy, resentment, unrequited love, and obsession. Tensions boiled over during a night of debauchery that ended in a deadly fire, leaving the Spires scattered and forever changed.
Now Willa is the perfect houseguest: accommodating, helpful, bringing a newfound sense of excitement to the Cox household. Yet Penelope can’t help but feel the cracks in her life widen as she begins to question Willa’s motives. Everyone has secrets, it seems―and the fire may have brought down the Spires, but not everything burned was forgotten.
Strung between two teenagers, an unemployed husband, and a tenuous career, Penelope Cox barely has her life together when the past comes knocking at her door. Willa Blaine, her old roommate, needs her help: refuge from an abusive husband. “Two weeks tops,” she says―but it’s not the imposition that bothers Penelope; it’s the memories Willa brings with her.
Twenty years earlier, Penelope, Willa, and three friends lived together in a converted church. Insular and closed off from the rest of the world, the five roommates formed their own dysfunctional family, celebrating the pinnacle of their lives; they called themselves “the Spires.” But nights of wild parties gave way to a darker undercurrent: jealousy, resentment, unrequited love, and obsession. Tensions boiled over during a night of debauchery that ended in a deadly fire, leaving the Spires scattered and forever changed.
Now Willa is the perfect houseguest: accommodating, helpful, bringing a newfound sense of excitement to the Cox household. Yet Penelope can’t help but feel the cracks in her life widen as she begins to question Willa’s motives. Everyone has secrets, it seems―and the fire may have brought down the Spires, but not everything burned was forgotten.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2021
1048 people are currently reading
7259 people want to read
About the author
Kate Moretti
12 books1,625 followersKate Moretti lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, two kids, and a dog. She’s worked in the pharmaceutical industry for ten years as a scientist, and has been an avid fiction reader her entire life.
She enjoys traveling and cooking, although with two kids, a day job, and writing, she doesn’t get to do those things as much as she’d like.
Her lifelong dream is to buy an old house with a secret passageway.
She enjoys traveling and cooking, although with two kids, a day job, and writing, she doesn’t get to do those things as much as she’d like.
Her lifelong dream is to buy an old house with a secret passageway.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 370 reviews
September 2, 2021
3.5 stars
The Spires is an addictive thriller revolving around secrets, lies, and murder.
Twenty years ago, Penelope and four best friends lived in a house that was once a former church. A fire that led to a devastating tragedy ripped the friends apart. In the present, one former friend inserts herself into Penelope’s life, and in doing so, threatens Penelope’s marriage, friendships, and sanity.
The timeline alternates between the past and the present. =b>The chapters that took place in the past bored me, but I loved the ones in the present. The past focuses on the group of friends who lived in the church house: Jack, Bree, Willa, Flynn, and Penelope. Outside of Penelope, none of the characters came to life for me. However, in the present, Willa was fascinating. Told primarily through Penelope’s point of view, she is a solid narrator who held my attention. I didn't like her character but that didn't sway my enjoyment. There are short snippets from Willa’s point of view. I could have used some more of these.
This was a fun read. Not loving Moretti’s most recent books, I went into this with zero expectations. I was loving every bit of it until the last 10%. There is a twist that puts this in the ridiculous zone. It’s kind of stupid, but at the same time, one of the characters points out how dumb everyone is, so in that respect, it makes sense. The final chapter felt like it belonged to a different book.
I would recommend The Spires for the entertainment value. The premise isn’t all that original, and it is slightly predictable, but the way the events unravel had me eating this book up!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The Spires is an addictive thriller revolving around secrets, lies, and murder.
Twenty years ago, Penelope and four best friends lived in a house that was once a former church. A fire that led to a devastating tragedy ripped the friends apart. In the present, one former friend inserts herself into Penelope’s life, and in doing so, threatens Penelope’s marriage, friendships, and sanity.
The timeline alternates between the past and the present. =b>The chapters that took place in the past bored me, but I loved the ones in the present. The past focuses on the group of friends who lived in the church house: Jack, Bree, Willa, Flynn, and Penelope. Outside of Penelope, none of the characters came to life for me. However, in the present, Willa was fascinating. Told primarily through Penelope’s point of view, she is a solid narrator who held my attention. I didn't like her character but that didn't sway my enjoyment. There are short snippets from Willa’s point of view. I could have used some more of these.
This was a fun read. Not loving Moretti’s most recent books, I went into this with zero expectations. I was loving every bit of it until the last 10%. There is a twist that puts this in the ridiculous zone. It’s kind of stupid, but at the same time, one of the characters points out how dumb everyone is, so in that respect, it makes sense. The final chapter felt like it belonged to a different book.
I would recommend The Spires for the entertainment value. The premise isn’t all that original, and it is slightly predictable, but the way the events unravel had me eating this book up!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2021
Penelope Cox is happily married to Brett and they have two lovely children. Imagine her surprise one day when she receives a knock at the door only to find her college best friend, Willa, on her doorstep. She is desperate for a place to stay after leaving her abusive husband and she couldn't think of anywhere else to go. They haven't seen or spoken to each other in twenty years.
This brings back terrible memories of long ago, their gap year out of college, where a group of friends decide to rent out a converted church. Penelope (Pip), Willa, Jack, Bree, and Flynn are as tight as friends can be, almost like a family, and they spend their summer drinking alcohol in excess and playing head games with one another. They have taken to calling themselves the Spires and outsiders are unwelcome in their cozy clique.
Then tragedy strikes and they all scatter to heal and deal with all that has happened.
So why is Willa back? And why does it feel like Willa is slowly trying to destroy her life?
I was hooked on this from page one though it isn't without it's flaws. First of all, who would let someone they haven't seen in 20 years live with them and their family? My alarm bells would have been ringing loud and clear. So, yes, there are going to be some things you will just have to accept in order to enjoy this. That being said Moretti was able to build and maintain tension and suspense through it's entirety so turning the pages was a pleasure. We go back and forth between the present and the summer with the Spires until we find out what befell the friends. I'll admit that I did like the present chapters more as Willa got under my skin in the best way possible. I was desperate to know her endgame. The past chapters weren't nearly as exciting but are necessary in telling this tale. I found the five of them obnoxious, self-centered, and terribly pretentious causing me to roll my eyes on several occasions. I had a hard time believing that these five were as close as they were because by all appearances they didn't seem to like one another very much. Again, this is where I just had to accept it. Then we get to the grand conclusion and I'll admit that I didn't see that coming BUT did I not see it coming because it was an explosive twist or because it was so far out of left field? Initially I was disappointed and thought to myself "This is impossible!" then the further I read the author took the implausible and made it somewhat plausible allowing me to appreciate the ending more.
All in all I had a good time with this one and I think many others will too. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my complimentary copy.
This brings back terrible memories of long ago, their gap year out of college, where a group of friends decide to rent out a converted church. Penelope (Pip), Willa, Jack, Bree, and Flynn are as tight as friends can be, almost like a family, and they spend their summer drinking alcohol in excess and playing head games with one another. They have taken to calling themselves the Spires and outsiders are unwelcome in their cozy clique.
Then tragedy strikes and they all scatter to heal and deal with all that has happened.
So why is Willa back? And why does it feel like Willa is slowly trying to destroy her life?
I was hooked on this from page one though it isn't without it's flaws. First of all, who would let someone they haven't seen in 20 years live with them and their family? My alarm bells would have been ringing loud and clear. So, yes, there are going to be some things you will just have to accept in order to enjoy this. That being said Moretti was able to build and maintain tension and suspense through it's entirety so turning the pages was a pleasure. We go back and forth between the present and the summer with the Spires until we find out what befell the friends. I'll admit that I did like the present chapters more as Willa got under my skin in the best way possible. I was desperate to know her endgame. The past chapters weren't nearly as exciting but are necessary in telling this tale. I found the five of them obnoxious, self-centered, and terribly pretentious causing me to roll my eyes on several occasions. I had a hard time believing that these five were as close as they were because by all appearances they didn't seem to like one another very much. Again, this is where I just had to accept it. Then we get to the grand conclusion and I'll admit that I didn't see that coming BUT did I not see it coming because it was an explosive twist or because it was so far out of left field? Initially I was disappointed and thought to myself "This is impossible!" then the further I read the author took the implausible and made it somewhat plausible allowing me to appreciate the ending more.
All in all I had a good time with this one and I think many others will too. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my complimentary copy.
September 23, 2021
3.5 stars
Have we seen this premise before??? Friends in the past, a secret they carry and the past coming back to haunt them? hmmm...I kept think of the Simple Minds song" Don't you (forget about me) while I read this book. Because the past has a way of showing up and knocking on your door!
Penelope (Pip) Cox is married with two children. She has a lot on her plate. Her husband is unemployed but has a love of going to the gym and "me" time. She has a career and a past that she would rather forget. But that is hard when her past comes knocking on her door. Willa, her old roommate needs a place to stay - she is hiding from an abusive husband. Two weeks is all she needs.
Twenty years ago, Penelope, Willa, Jack, Bree, and Flynn lived together. They called themselves "The Spires” They partied and did drugs which became the breeding ground to jealousy, love, obsession, and longing. After one night of debauchery, things went horribly wrong, and the Spires went their separate ways.
But now Willa is back as Penelope's houseguest, but things just don't seem to be going so great...
The book is mainly told through Penelope's POV but here and there we get Willa's POV which made things more interesting. The book also goes back and forth between the present and twenty years ago when the Spires all lived together. This helps to move the book along and keep readers on their toes.
Overall, this was a quick read which did not disappoint. Things go from bad to worse as secrets begin to see the light of day. Will you predict the ending???? I had no clue how it was going to end and was shocked at a few things.
This was a fun, dramatic book that kept me on my toes and entertained at the same time.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Have we seen this premise before??? Friends in the past, a secret they carry and the past coming back to haunt them? hmmm...I kept think of the Simple Minds song" Don't you (forget about me) while I read this book. Because the past has a way of showing up and knocking on your door!
Penelope (Pip) Cox is married with two children. She has a lot on her plate. Her husband is unemployed but has a love of going to the gym and "me" time. She has a career and a past that she would rather forget. But that is hard when her past comes knocking on her door. Willa, her old roommate needs a place to stay - she is hiding from an abusive husband. Two weeks is all she needs.
Twenty years ago, Penelope, Willa, Jack, Bree, and Flynn lived together. They called themselves "The Spires” They partied and did drugs which became the breeding ground to jealousy, love, obsession, and longing. After one night of debauchery, things went horribly wrong, and the Spires went their separate ways.
But now Willa is back as Penelope's houseguest, but things just don't seem to be going so great...
The book is mainly told through Penelope's POV but here and there we get Willa's POV which made things more interesting. The book also goes back and forth between the present and twenty years ago when the Spires all lived together. This helps to move the book along and keep readers on their toes.
Overall, this was a quick read which did not disappoint. Things go from bad to worse as secrets begin to see the light of day. Will you predict the ending???? I had no clue how it was going to end and was shocked at a few things.
This was a fun, dramatic book that kept me on my toes and entertained at the same time.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
December 31, 2021
The Spires by Kate Moretti is a 2021 Thomas & Mercer publication.
A group of young adults, all move in together in an old, converted church. Unfortunately, their little utopia ends in tragedy.
Now, twenty years later, Penelope is married, with two teenagers, and stretched thin, especially since her husband lost his job.
It seems almost like a blessing when her former roommate, Willa, shows up out of the blue begging for a place to stay after leaving an abusive husband. Willa picks up the slack, taking care of things Penelope has a hard time keeping track of.
But things sour quickly when Willa begins to overstep her bounds. As Willa’s invasiveness grows, Penelope becomes paranoid, and suspicious of her old friend. Her investigation into Willa’s life produces some interesting results, but no one believes Willa has nefarious motives, causing Penelope to second guess her instincts…
This book is written in the typical psychological thriller fashion, moving at a steady, even pace. While the story is engrossing, Penelope annoyed me a great deal, and I thought the story was becoming too transparent and predictable, right up to the end when Moretti blindsided me with a very nice, neat twist. Maybe that’ll teach me not to get so complacent.
Overall, I think the author did a nice job with this book. I was strung along, thinking I knew ‘what was what’, even rolling my eyes on occasion- so I guess Moretti put me in my place. LOL! I thought the dual timeline was effective, and the surprises, revelations, and twist were well-timed and kept in check, which I greatly appreciated!!
4 stars
A group of young adults, all move in together in an old, converted church. Unfortunately, their little utopia ends in tragedy.
Now, twenty years later, Penelope is married, with two teenagers, and stretched thin, especially since her husband lost his job.
It seems almost like a blessing when her former roommate, Willa, shows up out of the blue begging for a place to stay after leaving an abusive husband. Willa picks up the slack, taking care of things Penelope has a hard time keeping track of.
But things sour quickly when Willa begins to overstep her bounds. As Willa’s invasiveness grows, Penelope becomes paranoid, and suspicious of her old friend. Her investigation into Willa’s life produces some interesting results, but no one believes Willa has nefarious motives, causing Penelope to second guess her instincts…
This book is written in the typical psychological thriller fashion, moving at a steady, even pace. While the story is engrossing, Penelope annoyed me a great deal, and I thought the story was becoming too transparent and predictable, right up to the end when Moretti blindsided me with a very nice, neat twist. Maybe that’ll teach me not to get so complacent.
Overall, I think the author did a nice job with this book. I was strung along, thinking I knew ‘what was what’, even rolling my eyes on occasion- so I guess Moretti put me in my place. LOL! I thought the dual timeline was effective, and the surprises, revelations, and twist were well-timed and kept in check, which I greatly appreciated!!
4 stars
July 21, 2022
This is a Thriller/Mystery. I loved this book so much, and the ending was so good. This book I guessed some of the twist, but I did not guess some of them. I have to say I loved how this book was read, and I loved that this book kept me wanting to keep reading it. This book did flash backs of the group of friends while they where in college and right after college, but Most of this book is written several years after the friends stop talking to each other because of a big event that happen. I loved the characters in this book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Thomas & Mercer) or author (Kate Moretti) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
October 30, 2022
(3.5 stars). The Spires is a novel about five college friends who decide to take a gap year after college and live in an old, converted Church. A devastating tragedy happens at this Church, after which they all go about their separate ways. This book goes back and forth between the Then (20 years prior at the Church), and the Now. I will say the ‘Now’ chapters are a bit more interesting and suspenseful than the ‘Then’, but it still flowed together nicely.
The Spires focuses around the main character of Penelope (Pip) Cox. I think most women can relate to her at some point. Penelope works full time, tries to maintain a household, two children, and a husband. She is stressed and tired, and often questions herself. Along comes her friend Willa Blaine, an ex-roommate and friend from college and living at the Church during the gap year. Penelope hasn’t spoken to Willa or any of the other four roommates in 20 years. Why would Willa come knocking on her door after all this time needing a place to stay? How could Penelope say no to her after all that the friends went through?
While Willa is staying at Penelope’s house, strange and unsettling things start to occur. Penelope is not sure if she is imagining it, or if Willa is doing them. Penelope’s husband refuses to take her side on anything- so no help there. During this time, we have flashbacks to what happened at the Church during the gap year between Penelope, Willa, Jack, Bree, and Flynn (the Spires).
A few things that seemed odd to me were the fact that none of “the spires” seemed to really like each other, but of course that’s how friendships seem to be today, which is very self-centered. So I guess it’s no wonder that none of them kept in touch after the tragedy. I also found the twist at the end to be a little over the top- but then again, there are many evil people out there who have no life, with nothing but time on their hands who have nothing better to do than destroy the lives of others, so I guess anything is feasible.
I still recommend reading this book as it is very enjoyable and it did keep my interest. I personally was just expecting something a little more suspenseful. I would say this book is more of a domestic suspense, than a psychological thriller.
The Spires focuses around the main character of Penelope (Pip) Cox. I think most women can relate to her at some point. Penelope works full time, tries to maintain a household, two children, and a husband. She is stressed and tired, and often questions herself. Along comes her friend Willa Blaine, an ex-roommate and friend from college and living at the Church during the gap year. Penelope hasn’t spoken to Willa or any of the other four roommates in 20 years. Why would Willa come knocking on her door after all this time needing a place to stay? How could Penelope say no to her after all that the friends went through?
While Willa is staying at Penelope’s house, strange and unsettling things start to occur. Penelope is not sure if she is imagining it, or if Willa is doing them. Penelope’s husband refuses to take her side on anything- so no help there. During this time, we have flashbacks to what happened at the Church during the gap year between Penelope, Willa, Jack, Bree, and Flynn (the Spires).
A few things that seemed odd to me were the fact that none of “the spires” seemed to really like each other, but of course that’s how friendships seem to be today, which is very self-centered. So I guess it’s no wonder that none of them kept in touch after the tragedy. I also found the twist at the end to be a little over the top- but then again, there are many evil people out there who have no life, with nothing but time on their hands who have nothing better to do than destroy the lives of others, so I guess anything is feasible.
I still recommend reading this book as it is very enjoyable and it did keep my interest. I personally was just expecting something a little more suspenseful. I would say this book is more of a domestic suspense, than a psychological thriller.
October 18, 2021
Penelope Cox thinks she's put her college years behind her, when, twenty years later, her old friend Willa shows up unexpectedly on her doorstep. Willa Blaine needs help escaping her abusive husband. Penelope hasn't seen Willa since their gap year after college, when they and three other friends lived together in a converted church. Calling themselves "the Spires" they were a close-knit group, until hidden resentments and jealousies tipped over. Focused on their leader, Jack, things started to change when he brought home a girlfriend, Grace. Then tragedy struck and the group went their separate ways. Now, Willa seems the perfect guest, bringing order and happiness to the Cox household. But Penelope feels like her friend is putting her life off-balance and bringing up horrible memories: memories she'd rather leave long buried.
"Six months after they moved in, he brought home Grace and sent them all into a tailspin."
This is slow burn read--it's sluggish to start, but picks up as the story gets moving. Less thriller, more character-driven, THE SPIRES focuses on relationships more than mystery, though there is certainly plenty to figure out as the tale progresses.
The book skips back and forth between the group's gap year after college at The Church House and present day, when Penelope's friend Willa shows up without warning. The two haven't seen each other since they scattered after The Church House tragedy. We know something bad happened at The Church House, but it takes a while (basically the whole book) to get it all figured out. There is a lot of drama and angst as this all happens. None of the characters are particularly likeable, but there are plenty of motives and secrets tossed in along the way.
I didn't find THE SPIRES as thrilling as some of Moretti's other books. Still, it became more interesting and suspenseful as I read, and there are definitely some good twists. This is an especially good read for those who like a good psychological mystery. 3.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
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"Six months after they moved in, he brought home Grace and sent them all into a tailspin."
This is slow burn read--it's sluggish to start, but picks up as the story gets moving. Less thriller, more character-driven, THE SPIRES focuses on relationships more than mystery, though there is certainly plenty to figure out as the tale progresses.
The book skips back and forth between the group's gap year after college at The Church House and present day, when Penelope's friend Willa shows up without warning. The two haven't seen each other since they scattered after The Church House tragedy. We know something bad happened at The Church House, but it takes a while (basically the whole book) to get it all figured out. There is a lot of drama and angst as this all happens. None of the characters are particularly likeable, but there are plenty of motives and secrets tossed in along the way.
I didn't find THE SPIRES as thrilling as some of Moretti's other books. Still, it became more interesting and suspenseful as I read, and there are definitely some good twists. This is an especially good read for those who like a good psychological mystery. 3.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
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August 27, 2022
An interesting tale that encourages me it's not always a good idea tho hook up with an old college roommate. Lots of twists and turns and mistaken identity add the thrill to this thriller.
October 2, 2021
"Sometimes a piece of your soul can rot, she thought. If you can’t get it out, it festers like an infection."
Such a great, creepy cover and an interesting plot. But I'm so so sorry book, I'm just burnt out on your side story. I'm so sick of woman creeping in to another woman's life just to mess it up. I'm just tired of it. This was so over-the-top Lifetime movie I just couldn't anymore. I think I'm just burnt out on cheating and bad marriages that would just be cleared up if people would just communicate.
If this book sounds great, go for it! I'm sure you will love it more than I did.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
Such a great, creepy cover and an interesting plot. But I'm so so sorry book, I'm just burnt out on your side story. I'm so sick of woman creeping in to another woman's life just to mess it up. I'm just tired of it. This was so over-the-top Lifetime movie I just couldn't anymore. I think I'm just burnt out on cheating and bad marriages that would just be cleared up if people would just communicate.
If this book sounds great, go for it! I'm sure you will love it more than I did.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
April 20, 2022
3.5 stars.
Twenty years ago, five students shared a renovated church as their home when they graduated from college: Pip, Jack, Bree, Flynn, and Willa. A fire resulted in a death and the five lost all touch. Now Willa has shown up on Pip's doorstep and begins insinuating herself into Pip's life.
Of course, the story is in the present and also delves into what happened 20 years ago. I thought the present was more interesting than the past. Looking at Pip, her husband Brett, and Willa, I tried hard to figure out who was going to be the bad guy. Or maybe they were all bad guys. Usually interesting to see where authors decide to take the story. The ending was good in this one. I didn't expect how the story line with Willa ended up.
Twenty years ago, five students shared a renovated church as their home when they graduated from college: Pip, Jack, Bree, Flynn, and Willa. A fire resulted in a death and the five lost all touch. Now Willa has shown up on Pip's doorstep and begins insinuating herself into Pip's life.
Of course, the story is in the present and also delves into what happened 20 years ago. I thought the present was more interesting than the past. Looking at Pip, her husband Brett, and Willa, I tried hard to figure out who was going to be the bad guy. Or maybe they were all bad guys. Usually interesting to see where authors decide to take the story. The ending was good in this one. I didn't expect how the story line with Willa ended up.
September 23, 2021
Narrated by Siiri Scott 🎧The Spires by Kate Moretti provides a slow burn thriller with an interesting and unexpected twist. Sit back, relax and take a journey into the world of murder, lies and revenge......
The Spires tells the tale of five friends, (Penelope, Wilma, Bree, Jack and Flynn) who lived in a converted church building. However, all was not well as jealousy, obsession, resentment and unrequited feelings reigned among these friends. Then the unthinkable happened during one night of partying. The building burned to the ground, leaving death in its wake and ripping the friends apart.
Fast forward twenty years later, Penelope is a wife and a mother of two. All appears to be going well, but then Willa seeking to escape an abusive husband sought refuge with Penelope. A move which poses a threat to Penelope’s marriage, family and ultimately her sanity.
The story moved between the past and the present. I found the section of the story set in the present fascinating, while that set in the past bored me. The storyline set in the past focuses on the relationship between the five friends and was necessary in the plot's development. I never connected with the characters showcased in the past, as their actions annoyed me. In the present, the characters, though unlikeable, were more tolerable and quite fascinating.
The POVs of both Penelope and Willa in the present captured my attention. It would have been great if Willa’s POV received more page time, though. Penelope allowing Willa to move into her home after twenty years of no communication baffled me. Especially knowing that Penelope wanted to keep that part of her life hidden. I understood the need to help her, but moving in with her should have been a last resort.
The Spires was marketed as a thriller, therefore I expected a fast-paced and suspenseful read. However, it fell way below my expectations. Despite the slow pacing, the story had some interesting aspects, which kept me listening. I was curious to know Willa’s endgame and how it tied in with the events from the past. As the end drew near, an unexpected and explosive twist occurred.
Narration
Siiri Scott provided the narration. It was my first time listening to her. Her male and female voices were not unique, and there were a few instances of mispronunciations. Despite the monotony of her delivery, she provided a fairly enjoyable listen. I would listen to her narration again if the opportunity arises. I listened at a speed of 1.3x
Conclusion/Recommendation
Overall, 🎧The Spires delivered an interesting tale of lies, secrets, revenge and murder. Fans of slow paced thrillers will enjoy this latest offering from Kate Moretti.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
The Spires tells the tale of five friends, (Penelope, Wilma, Bree, Jack and Flynn) who lived in a converted church building. However, all was not well as jealousy, obsession, resentment and unrequited feelings reigned among these friends. Then the unthinkable happened during one night of partying. The building burned to the ground, leaving death in its wake and ripping the friends apart.
Fast forward twenty years later, Penelope is a wife and a mother of two. All appears to be going well, but then Willa seeking to escape an abusive husband sought refuge with Penelope. A move which poses a threat to Penelope’s marriage, family and ultimately her sanity.
The story moved between the past and the present. I found the section of the story set in the present fascinating, while that set in the past bored me. The storyline set in the past focuses on the relationship between the five friends and was necessary in the plot's development. I never connected with the characters showcased in the past, as their actions annoyed me. In the present, the characters, though unlikeable, were more tolerable and quite fascinating.
The POVs of both Penelope and Willa in the present captured my attention. It would have been great if Willa’s POV received more page time, though. Penelope allowing Willa to move into her home after twenty years of no communication baffled me. Especially knowing that Penelope wanted to keep that part of her life hidden. I understood the need to help her, but moving in with her should have been a last resort.
The Spires was marketed as a thriller, therefore I expected a fast-paced and suspenseful read. However, it fell way below my expectations. Despite the slow pacing, the story had some interesting aspects, which kept me listening. I was curious to know Willa’s endgame and how it tied in with the events from the past. As the end drew near, an unexpected and explosive twist occurred.
Narration
Siiri Scott provided the narration. It was my first time listening to her. Her male and female voices were not unique, and there were a few instances of mispronunciations. Despite the monotony of her delivery, she provided a fairly enjoyable listen. I would listen to her narration again if the opportunity arises. I listened at a speed of 1.3x
Conclusion/Recommendation
Overall, 🎧The Spires delivered an interesting tale of lies, secrets, revenge and murder. Fans of slow paced thrillers will enjoy this latest offering from Kate Moretti.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
June 8, 2021
Thoroughly loved this book. I was invested right from the beginning, swept along on the journey and the twist at the end was a delicious surprise. The Spires was my companion for my insomnia (or maybe it was the reason?!). I've been searching for a read that would keep me up way past my bedtime and I found it...there's just one problem - I also finished it.
I really enjoyed getting to know each of the Spires through the past storyline and enjoyed the journey of seeing the ramifications of those relationships and how it affected the main character.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a twisty read!
I really enjoyed getting to know each of the Spires through the past storyline and enjoyed the journey of seeing the ramifications of those relationships and how it affected the main character.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a twisty read!
November 15, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an eARC of this book. The following review is my honest reflection on the text provided.
The Spires is a surprisingly good psychological thriller. I think I fell for every false lead, which meant I didn't see any of the twists coming and was totally blown away.
The narrative is split between the present day and flashbacks of Penelope's time living with a group of friends just after graduating from college. The present storyline is a thrilling spiral into paranoia and delusion that is just delicious. The flashbacks are nostalgic windows into life as a young adult trying to find oneself - they are all fresh out into the real world but still acting as they did in college, partying and avoiding getting real jobs. While this group has a lot of personal (and interpersonal) problems, the close-knit family vibe is enviable at times. They clearly care about each other and the group as a whole. Unfortunately, they also have some substance abuse issues, which could twist 'caring' into 'territorial'. As the present storyline becomes crazier, the intensity of the past builds, until suddenly, everything is falling apart, and the line between reality and fiction becomes so blurry it's indistinguishable.
The entire story was well-balanced between present and past; it felt exciting, unique, and unpredictable. I really didn't see the last twist coming - Kate Moretti nudged the story along so gently that I didn't question any of the facts in front of me. There were a few aspects that were a little too crazy to be believed, which is why I've rated The Spires four stars instead of five. It certainly didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story, just the believability.
Review originally posted here on Britt's Book Blurbs.
The Spires is a surprisingly good psychological thriller. I think I fell for every false lead, which meant I didn't see any of the twists coming and was totally blown away.
The narrative is split between the present day and flashbacks of Penelope's time living with a group of friends just after graduating from college. The present storyline is a thrilling spiral into paranoia and delusion that is just delicious. The flashbacks are nostalgic windows into life as a young adult trying to find oneself - they are all fresh out into the real world but still acting as they did in college, partying and avoiding getting real jobs. While this group has a lot of personal (and interpersonal) problems, the close-knit family vibe is enviable at times. They clearly care about each other and the group as a whole. Unfortunately, they also have some substance abuse issues, which could twist 'caring' into 'territorial'. As the present storyline becomes crazier, the intensity of the past builds, until suddenly, everything is falling apart, and the line between reality and fiction becomes so blurry it's indistinguishable.
The entire story was well-balanced between present and past; it felt exciting, unique, and unpredictable. I really didn't see the last twist coming - Kate Moretti nudged the story along so gently that I didn't question any of the facts in front of me. There were a few aspects that were a little too crazy to be believed, which is why I've rated The Spires four stars instead of five. It certainly didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story, just the believability.
Review originally posted here on Britt's Book Blurbs.
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September 17, 2021
Fun psychological thriller which gets off to a slow start. It didn't really grab me until about halfway through after which it got much more interesting and picked up some speed though though it continues to be a slow burn. The ending was good and satisfying if not somewhat foreseeable. I didn't guess it 100% but I was definitely in the right ballpark.
Penelope and 5 of her best friends from college decide to live together in an old church for a gap year after college. They form a family that none of them really have anywhere else. But like any family there will be conflict. Fast forward 20 years and Penelope is married with 2 children living a somewhat typical suburban life. Her husband was laid off a year ago and seems to be spending his time finding and bettering himself, spending money they don't really have on wellness retreats, gyms, yoga sessions, and all sorts of various new age treatments. Things have gotten tense between them and then one of Penelope's college friends shows up on her doorstep without a word in the past 20 years looking for a place to hide from her abuser. At first it seems to be the answer everyone needed: Willa gets a place to stay and regroup while the day-to-day care of the children and the household gets some much needed attention. Then things start to get weird.
This story goes back and forth between present day and back to the church house. There is a lot of time spent laying the groundwork for what happens next, most of which seems like overkill and bogs the story down. But when things start getting weird is when you grab your bowl of popcorn and hunker down to find out the truth.
I would like to thank #NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this advanced copy of #TheSpires in exchange for an honest review.
Penelope and 5 of her best friends from college decide to live together in an old church for a gap year after college. They form a family that none of them really have anywhere else. But like any family there will be conflict. Fast forward 20 years and Penelope is married with 2 children living a somewhat typical suburban life. Her husband was laid off a year ago and seems to be spending his time finding and bettering himself, spending money they don't really have on wellness retreats, gyms, yoga sessions, and all sorts of various new age treatments. Things have gotten tense between them and then one of Penelope's college friends shows up on her doorstep without a word in the past 20 years looking for a place to hide from her abuser. At first it seems to be the answer everyone needed: Willa gets a place to stay and regroup while the day-to-day care of the children and the household gets some much needed attention. Then things start to get weird.
This story goes back and forth between present day and back to the church house. There is a lot of time spent laying the groundwork for what happens next, most of which seems like overkill and bogs the story down. But when things start getting weird is when you grab your bowl of popcorn and hunker down to find out the truth.
I would like to thank #NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this advanced copy of #TheSpires in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2021
Five friends through university become five co-dependents in the year following graduation when they find that none of them are quite ready to move past the relationships that they have formed. Now twenty years later the strangeness, tragedy and secrets of that year have come back to haunt of the "spires" as they called themselves. But why? And who is doing this to her, to them?
There appear to be many books lately on the shelves dealing with "reunions." Since I didn't form these types of relationships during university nor have I ever attended a reunion, the idea of these hard and fast friendships and the secrets that go with them both intrigue and irk me. In The Spires, there are five struggling young people, none of whom have a strong family background or even family at all, who cling to one another at the exclusion or anyone else and, literally, all else until tragedy strikes and someone is killed. The five pay the psychological price for the next twenty years, a few even pay with their lives. It is the unraveling of one, Penelope, that is the focus of the story and Moretti does an excellent job of making her both interesting and sympathetic.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Spires. I had to suspend a bit of believability at the end but the very end was beautiful, quite worth the read. I will note that this is NOT a thriller. Labeling it as such does a disservice to an otherwise very good book. I'm growing quite tired of publishing houses sticking "thriller" on every mystery or domestic noir book that comes their way. Readers expecting blood and gore will be disappointed and readers who don't like thrillers won't read an otherwise very engaging book. Publishing houses should do better!
There appear to be many books lately on the shelves dealing with "reunions." Since I didn't form these types of relationships during university nor have I ever attended a reunion, the idea of these hard and fast friendships and the secrets that go with them both intrigue and irk me. In The Spires, there are five struggling young people, none of whom have a strong family background or even family at all, who cling to one another at the exclusion or anyone else and, literally, all else until tragedy strikes and someone is killed. The five pay the psychological price for the next twenty years, a few even pay with their lives. It is the unraveling of one, Penelope, that is the focus of the story and Moretti does an excellent job of making her both interesting and sympathetic.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Spires. I had to suspend a bit of believability at the end but the very end was beautiful, quite worth the read. I will note that this is NOT a thriller. Labeling it as such does a disservice to an otherwise very good book. I'm growing quite tired of publishing houses sticking "thriller" on every mystery or domestic noir book that comes their way. Readers expecting blood and gore will be disappointed and readers who don't like thrillers won't read an otherwise very engaging book. Publishing houses should do better!
October 2, 2021
I read this book via Kindle Unlimited.
Penelope lives the perfect life; two kids, a boy and a girl, a husband, a nice house. She has worked hard and continues to, but the cracks are starting to show in the facade...Namely, a letter, from a person in her past she had chosen to forget, a group actually, an event...and then suddenly, even after the letter is buried away, forgotten, there's a person at her door, and they are harder to forget. Willa is fleeing her abusive husband and needs Penelope's help but Penelope has forgotten her time at The Spires, the church house, the firehouse. She's moved on but seeing Willa brings it all back and when it becomes clear that Willa has an ulterior motive to showing up in Penelope's life, can Penelope move fast enough to save herself and her family from Willa's flames?
I wanted to like this book. I really did. The cover is beautiful and spooky. It has great reviews. I love a thriller as much as the next person...and yet I'm here, left disappointed by this. The plot was tired, something I feel I have read thousands of times before. Someone from the past showing up to ruin someone's success, a dark secret waiting to be uncovered. It feels like I've been here before. The characters in this book were fine. I didn't really care for any of them, I found them a bit pompous and incredibly dull in parts, but I didn't dislike them either. I would say this film felt like a Movies 24 kind of film, lifetime-y in a way. It lacked something, variety, spice. It wrapped up with a nice bow. I just can't get behind this book more, and that makes me a little sad.
Penelope lives the perfect life; two kids, a boy and a girl, a husband, a nice house. She has worked hard and continues to, but the cracks are starting to show in the facade...Namely, a letter, from a person in her past she had chosen to forget, a group actually, an event...and then suddenly, even after the letter is buried away, forgotten, there's a person at her door, and they are harder to forget. Willa is fleeing her abusive husband and needs Penelope's help but Penelope has forgotten her time at The Spires, the church house, the firehouse. She's moved on but seeing Willa brings it all back and when it becomes clear that Willa has an ulterior motive to showing up in Penelope's life, can Penelope move fast enough to save herself and her family from Willa's flames?
I wanted to like this book. I really did. The cover is beautiful and spooky. It has great reviews. I love a thriller as much as the next person...and yet I'm here, left disappointed by this. The plot was tired, something I feel I have read thousands of times before. Someone from the past showing up to ruin someone's success, a dark secret waiting to be uncovered. It feels like I've been here before. The characters in this book were fine. I didn't really care for any of them, I found them a bit pompous and incredibly dull in parts, but I didn't dislike them either. I would say this film felt like a Movies 24 kind of film, lifetime-y in a way. It lacked something, variety, spice. It wrapped up with a nice bow. I just can't get behind this book more, and that makes me a little sad.
January 30, 2021
I was so fortunate to read this early--and I say this without hyperbole, but Moretti could write directions on how to make a sandwich and it would be compelling. She is really that great a writer.
The Spires brings that same Kate Moretti anguish to her characters that permeates all her previous books. Her characters all feel so authentic, I imagine they are real people living their lives somewhere.
I particularly loved Penelope: mom of two, hard-worker, doing every she can to keep her family together while recognizing her efforts might never be enough. She is an every woman who needs help. Enter Willa who relieves Pen of her daily burdens, making us all wonder: who wouldn't welcome and old friend who is so eager to help us? Even if that friend doesn't seem quite right.
The Spires brings that same Kate Moretti anguish to her characters that permeates all her previous books. Her characters all feel so authentic, I imagine they are real people living their lives somewhere.
I particularly loved Penelope: mom of two, hard-worker, doing every she can to keep her family together while recognizing her efforts might never be enough. She is an every woman who needs help. Enter Willa who relieves Pen of her daily burdens, making us all wonder: who wouldn't welcome and old friend who is so eager to help us? Even if that friend doesn't seem quite right.
April 29, 2021
This book was amazing!! The base story of friendship itself is well done but add in the twists of a thriller and the story is on a whole other level. So well done and keeps you guessing.
September 20, 2021
First off, I looooove the colours on the cover of this dark and twist thriller! While it starts off a bit slow, I was also intrigued immediately.
I really enjoyed the alternating timelines of Penelope’s current day life and the flashbacks to then of her as Pip at ‘The Spires’.
While I didn’t see the twist coming, I’m not sure it was my favourite either, plausibility wise. Nonetheless, it was still socking and overall an entertaining and addictive read!
I’ll definitely check out more by Moretti!
3.5 stars rounded to 4 for good reads!!
I really enjoyed the alternating timelines of Penelope’s current day life and the flashbacks to then of her as Pip at ‘The Spires’.
While I didn’t see the twist coming, I’m not sure it was my favourite either, plausibility wise. Nonetheless, it was still socking and overall an entertaining and addictive read!
I’ll definitely check out more by Moretti!
3.5 stars rounded to 4 for good reads!!
July 7, 2021
This book took me on a wild ride and left me screaming for mercy. I literally never knew what was going to happen, I kept having to put the book down to breathe before coming back to it. Penelope is the glue that’s holding her family together, as well as the strained marriage with her husband who lost his job a year ago and has spent the time “finding himself”. Willa is an unwelcome blast from the past, who comes to Penelope a little broken and needing to get away from an abusive man. Just a few weeks to help her friend get back on their feet. What could go wrong? Uhhhhhh EVERYTHING. But is it Willa doing these things? Someone else from the past? Or is Penelope having a breakdown? I hope you get everything as wrong as I did while reading this, and that you enjoy the ride!!
September 29, 2021
One of my top 5 for September! https://www.instagram.com/tv/CUaPx0UJ...
May 4, 2021
4.45/5 shining stars for Kate Moretti! With each book I am amazed at her writing, this book was completely different from her last but the way she develops her characters and brings them to life on the page, you can feel every bit of their emotions and a book with multiple characters I think is impressive.
The Spires focus on a group of friends who take a break year after college. One of the friends has an old church that’s been converted to a home. They decide to all live together, calling themselves “The Spires”
A fire occurs breaking the group apart. 20 years later Willa shows up at Penelope’s barging into her life asking for help escaping an abusive relationship. But is that what really happened? Soon Penelope begins to feel Willa may want more than just a place to sleep.
The book moves back and forth from present day to past. Emotions mount and tensions rise. It was definitely raw and different from any other book I’ve read but Moretti knocked it out of the Park with this one.
Thanks to Edelweiss for my advanced ebook copy.
The Spires focus on a group of friends who take a break year after college. One of the friends has an old church that’s been converted to a home. They decide to all live together, calling themselves “The Spires”
A fire occurs breaking the group apart. 20 years later Willa shows up at Penelope’s barging into her life asking for help escaping an abusive relationship. But is that what really happened? Soon Penelope begins to feel Willa may want more than just a place to sleep.
The book moves back and forth from present day to past. Emotions mount and tensions rise. It was definitely raw and different from any other book I’ve read but Moretti knocked it out of the Park with this one.
Thanks to Edelweiss for my advanced ebook copy.
June 10, 2021
If you read popular thrillers (and of course you do, that’s how they got so popular in the first place), sooner or later you’ll stumble upon Moretti. Because everyone’s got their version of women in peril and it seems some excel at it more than others. Mind you, most of the plots are just variations on preset themes…it’s difficult to hit originality when seemingly everyone and their monkey are out writing similar things, so tell me if you heard this one before…
A woman takes in a college friend she hasn’t seen in 20 years who then slowly but surely begins to take over her life. Single White Female and all that. Enough gaslighting to send you back to Victorian times. Is she going mad or it someone out to get her? Is a former friend in need a friend indeed? Is it worth it to trade in some sanity for free mad/cook/driver services? And just what did take place 20 years ago with her old college friends that has scarred them all so?
So yes, that sounds very much like great many other plots out there. The question was just of doing it right and, to her credit, Moretti does. She makes up for the dearth of originality with oodles of deliciously stretched out suspense, really good writing and some really fun plot twists. She may not be inventing the wheel here, but she tunes it very nicely.
Don’t overanalyze this if you can help it, because obviously taking in someone you haven’t known or been around in two decades without any prior research (or even a brief google search) and then relying on them to help your struggling marriage along is a terrible idea. Just like saying nothing while your spouse gets laid off and decides to waste obscene amounts of money on new age style self improvement is a terrible idea. I mean that leaves Penelope (occasionally known as Pip) and her family with only (gasp) a quarter of a million dollars in income instead of the customary 500K a year. Yes, the struggle is real in white privilege land.
The struggle wasn’t real in college either, when five privileged youths graduated and decided to take a fun year off and live in a renovated church as a sort of lovelorn commune/makeshift family, all of them but one completely obsessed with the vaguely charming aspiring writer named Jack. The pretentious five named themselves The Spires, because it was meant to be the highest peak of their lives and, you know, church, and wouldn’t you know it the youth, the drinking, the toxic obsessions, etc. turned out to be a recipe for a proper sh*tshow. Enough to send them all in separate directions for all this time…until now.
Anyway, I know I’m making fun of it, it’s easy enough to, but really the book was surprisingly decent despite itself. The dynamics were just right. And the writing was well above average. The author did an excellent job of conveying Penelope's frazzled, disoriented and increasingly frightened state of mind, which is crucial for a psychological thriller.Made for a really decent introduction to a new author, one I wouldn’t be opposed to reading in the future. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.
This and more at https://advancetheplot.weebly.com/
A woman takes in a college friend she hasn’t seen in 20 years who then slowly but surely begins to take over her life. Single White Female and all that. Enough gaslighting to send you back to Victorian times. Is she going mad or it someone out to get her? Is a former friend in need a friend indeed? Is it worth it to trade in some sanity for free mad/cook/driver services? And just what did take place 20 years ago with her old college friends that has scarred them all so?
So yes, that sounds very much like great many other plots out there. The question was just of doing it right and, to her credit, Moretti does. She makes up for the dearth of originality with oodles of deliciously stretched out suspense, really good writing and some really fun plot twists. She may not be inventing the wheel here, but she tunes it very nicely.
Don’t overanalyze this if you can help it, because obviously taking in someone you haven’t known or been around in two decades without any prior research (or even a brief google search) and then relying on them to help your struggling marriage along is a terrible idea. Just like saying nothing while your spouse gets laid off and decides to waste obscene amounts of money on new age style self improvement is a terrible idea. I mean that leaves Penelope (occasionally known as Pip) and her family with only (gasp) a quarter of a million dollars in income instead of the customary 500K a year. Yes, the struggle is real in white privilege land.
The struggle wasn’t real in college either, when five privileged youths graduated and decided to take a fun year off and live in a renovated church as a sort of lovelorn commune/makeshift family, all of them but one completely obsessed with the vaguely charming aspiring writer named Jack. The pretentious five named themselves The Spires, because it was meant to be the highest peak of their lives and, you know, church, and wouldn’t you know it the youth, the drinking, the toxic obsessions, etc. turned out to be a recipe for a proper sh*tshow. Enough to send them all in separate directions for all this time…until now.
Anyway, I know I’m making fun of it, it’s easy enough to, but really the book was surprisingly decent despite itself. The dynamics were just right. And the writing was well above average. The author did an excellent job of conveying Penelope's frazzled, disoriented and increasingly frightened state of mind, which is crucial for a psychological thriller.Made for a really decent introduction to a new author, one I wouldn’t be opposed to reading in the future. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.
This and more at https://advancetheplot.weebly.com/
August 12, 2021
Thank you Brilliance Audio/Thomas and Mercer for sending me a copy of The Spires. This was a crazy twisty read. I felt like so much went on in this book and kept you wanting to read. Definitely a quick one with a good ending! It is told between past and present so you get an idea on what happened in the past and what made it be in the present time. Loved all the characters too! If you love a good twist/thriller book this one would be a great choice for you!
April 29, 2021
After twenty-years Penelope receives a letter from her old college friend and roommate after college, Willa asking to get together and catch up. Things take a turn when Willa comes for a visit. She claims she was abused by her husband and needs a place to stay for a few weeks until she can figure things out. Things don't go as Penelope planned and it seems Willa has a devious agenda.
This one took me sometime to get into, but once I did, I had a hard time putting it down. The characters were not all likeable, but the story line was excellent. I enjoyed the bit of twist at the end, that I didn't predict.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This one took me sometime to get into, but once I did, I had a hard time putting it down. The characters were not all likeable, but the story line was excellent. I enjoyed the bit of twist at the end, that I didn't predict.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 27, 2021
This took me several days to read. While I enjoyed parts of it, I found that much of it (the "then" sections) was slow and could have been left out. It wasn't much a "thriller", at least for me. I had figured it out way before the reveal.
This was the 2nd book I've read by this author. It was just okay for me.
Thank you #netgalley and #thomasandmercer #amazonpublishing for the earc.
This was the 2nd book I've read by this author. It was just okay for me.
Thank you #netgalley and #thomasandmercer #amazonpublishing for the earc.
September 21, 2021
Some people have one event that changes their trajectory in life and them. This is the case for a group of friends: Jack, Flynn, Bree, Penelope and Willa. 20 years later that event comes roaring back to Penelope causing her to question herself and the safe life she’s created.
I really thought this was well executed by Ms. Moretti and definitely didn’t see that twist coming.
I really thought this was well executed by Ms. Moretti and definitely didn’t see that twist coming.
May 7, 2022
3/5 ⭐️
Not good but not bad either
Not good but not bad either
October 5, 2021
📚 Hello Book Friends! THE SPIRES by Kate Moretti is a thriller with all the right elements. The characters are interesting, the plot intriguing, and the twist surprising. The story is written in two timelines. As the story progress, the author reveals more and more about the characters, their narratives, their friendship, and their complex relationship. The devious twist at the end was just perfect. Awesome book.
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March 13, 2022
ARC received via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
2.5 stars rounded up, but only because the writing wasn't actually that bad.
But this ended up being quite the slog. For a number of reasons (no likeable characters, lack of atmosphere, terrible pacing), I constantly found myself wanting to just skim read through the tedium and get to the reveal so I can find our what happened and be done with it. And man did that reveal fall flat on its face, with the book's actual climax following suit only moments later. The only parts I actually semi-enjoyed were the flashbacks to the characters' time in The Spires, but that's probably only because I was purposely reading those parts with dark-academia-tinted glasses (very optimistic of me, really).
Not worth it in the end, although I know some readers will enjoy it nonetheless.
2.5 stars rounded up, but only because the writing wasn't actually that bad.
But this ended up being quite the slog. For a number of reasons (no likeable characters, lack of atmosphere, terrible pacing), I constantly found myself wanting to just skim read through the tedium and get to the reveal so I can find our what happened and be done with it. And man did that reveal fall flat on its face, with the book's actual climax following suit only moments later. The only parts I actually semi-enjoyed were the flashbacks to the characters' time in The Spires, but that's probably only because I was purposely reading those parts with dark-academia-tinted glasses (very optimistic of me, really).
Not worth it in the end, although I know some readers will enjoy it nonetheless.
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