Starling House - Alix E. Harrow

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⭐ 10.0/10

(Originally written by Magdalene)

Opal is a 20-something orphan taking care of her younger brother, doing everything she can to make a better life for him, including lying and stealing. She feels drawn to the mysterious Starling House and convinces its only habitant, the recluse Arthur, to give her a job cleaning it.

This is a gothic book that straddles the line between fantasy and horror, with a sinister house and shadowy monsters. Both Opal and Arthur are described as ugly, and both have difficult personalities, but you can't help but love them. The romance between these very damaged people isn't the most central plot, but it was so compelling! And I loved the setting and the themes and the brother-sister relationship and the absolutely gorgeous writing. I have loved all of Harrow's books and this is no exception.

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