Orphaned as a baby, nineteen-year-old Signa has been raised by a string of guardians, each more interested in her wealth than her well-being–and each has met an untimely end. Her remaining relatives are the elusive Hawthornes, an eccentric family living at Thorn Grove, an estate both glittering and gloomy. Its patriarch mourns his late wife through wild parties, while his son grapples for control of the family’s waning reputation, and his daughter suffers from a mysterious illness. But when their mother’s restless spirit appears claiming she was poisoned, Signa realizes that the family she depends on could be in grave danger and enlists the help of a surly stable boy to hunt down the killer. However, Signa’s best chance of uncovering the murderer is an alliance with Death himself, a fascinating, dangerous shadow who has never been far from her side. Though he’s made her life a living hell, Death shows Signa that their growing connection may be more powerful–and more irresistible–than she ever dared imagine.
This book was a slow start, but a really strong ending. I was a little skeptical at first and afraid I wasn’t going to enjoy it, or I would DNF, but right around the middle mark I realized that I did not want to put this book down.
Death was so swoony. Signa was kind of badass (especially at the end). Blythe was my favorite and I truly hope we get to see more from her in the next book. Honorable mention to the covers for this series. They are absolutely gorgeous, especially the naked hardbacks.
Memorable quotes:
“Do not change the parts of yourself you like to make others comfortable. Do not mold yourself to fit the standards someone else has set for us.”
“There is no such this as true goodness, there is only perception.”
“Because death is only a reprieve for the dead, Mr. Thorly. It cares little for those it leaves behind.”
I saw the post about you reading this one, and didn’t take much notice. I think I might need to read it based on your review!