lusciously narrated, the exquisite details and evocative vibes were truly exceptional, but the overarching 2015 plot did not live up to the flashbacks, especially in the end. Yes, there is a romance with an HEA, but it is barely a B plot so I will not include it in an overall romance category.

What did work was the life of the "age of adeline" esque character who is the heart & soul of both the Miniscule Mansion and the IRL Mansion. Her story was absolutely heartbreaking in so many ways.

Also, in 2023 i'm a little tired of the "oh noes I'm scarred on the face so I must hide away" trope - Myra was in a horrific accident as a little girl and I wish more of her tendency to hermit and not join in the real world was focused on her trauma and less on her facial scars.

That said, I'm glad I listened to this, it was a great choice to listen to in the car with people I could not listen to my usual steamy reads. This is entirely closed door, I think there might be one kiss?