CATEGORIES: BOOK BLOG POSTS, BOOK REVIEWS, YOUNG ADULT, FANTASY, ROMANCE
ABOUT THE BOOK
TITLE: BELLADONNA
AUTHOR: adalyn grace
GENRES: young ADULT, FANTASY, ROMANCE
PUBLISHER: LITTLE, BROWN BOOK FOR YOUNG READERS
SERIES: THE belladonna series
PUBLISHING DATE: AUGUST 30TH, 2022
FORMAT: audiobook
NARRATOR: kristin atherton
Source: audible SELF-purchaseD
listening time: 13 HOURS, 15 MINUTES
ADALYN GRACE DELIVERS A CHILLING DARK FANTASY THAT WILL HAVE YOU ON THE EDGE OF YOUR SEAT...
GOODREADS summary
Orphaned as a baby, nineteen-year-old Signa has been raised by a string of guardians, each one 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.
My Thoughts:
Belladonna by Adalyn Grace has gained popularity on bookstagram and it caught my attention with its stunning cover. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try.
This captivating blend of gothic elements and romantasy follows the journey of Signa, the female protagonist, who endures mistreatment from her aunt, Magna. After accidentally causing her aunt’s demise, Signa discovers a mysterious connection she shares with the grim reaper. This connection becomes apart of the central conflict as it hinders her desire for a normal life, while also serving as her only tool to solve a murder.
THE PLOT
The story also revolves around a mysterious illness believed to have killed Signa’s aunt, Lillian. Eventually, Signa uncovers that this illness was actually a result of poisoning. This poison also threatens the life of her cousin, Blythe, and time is running out to identify the culprit before Blythe meets the same fate. The book’s title provides a clue regarding the specific poison used, adding to the intrigue.
The mystery of uncovering the killer and the budding romance between Signa and two male characters kept me engaged until the end. However, when the killer’s motive was revealed, I found it somewhat weak and wished for a more realistic explanation.
THE WRITING STYLE
This novel was beautifully written. Although author Adalyn Grace marketed this gothic fantasy for young-adult readers, I never felt like the style was overly juvenile or stuffy. This is truly a novel that can be enjoyed by both adults and teenagers. There were multiple quotable moments, especially the ones where death expresses his affection for Signa.
At times the pacing a bit slow for my taste, but the hook was sharp enough to reel me in until the very last page.
"I have waited for you for millennia, Signa Farrow.” There was a silky husk to his voice now, too pleased for his own good. “Since the dawn of this earth, I have waited. You are mine, and I am yours. And together, this world is ours."
THE CHARACTERS
Each character is well-developed with their own distinct characteristics, propelling the story forward effectively. Death, in particular, is captivating and mysterious, making it easy to understand Signa’s grim fascination with him.
If you manage to get your hands on the audiobook version, you will be delighted by the superb narration of Kristin Atherton who flawlessly captures the velvety voice of Death.
Throughout the book, Signa harbors resentment towards Death for repeatedly orphaning her through the loss of her family members.
Signa is a relatable character, longing for love and acceptance as an orphan and a woman plaqued by rumors from high society. The struggle to conform to societal expectations while resisting her true nature adds depth to her character.
"It’s exhausting,” Signa said as she looked down to her lap, “to pretend you are something -someone- you’re not.” Blythe took her by the hand. “Then do not spend your life exhausted."
While some scenes could have been trimmed to improve the pacing, I thoroughly enjoyed this romantic fantasy. It kept me on my toes until the end, leaving me eager for the next installment, Foxglove.
The mystery surrounding the killer kept my mind guessing, although I would have appreciated a more developed explanation for their motives.
Overall, this was an immensely enjoyable read, and I highly recommend picking up a copy for a wonderful reading experience.
Have you read this book? Share your thoughts. If not, grab a copy here and delve into the immersive world of Belladonna by Adalyn Grace.