*whispers* is this… my favourite V. E. Schwab book??

There is something extraordinary about a simple story told by an incredible writer. Gallant is so well crafted, so thought-through, and grips you from the very first page to the very last.

The story follows Olivia, an orphan who cannot speak but sees the ghouls that live around us. The only thing she has to connect her to her past is her mother’s journal, but that all changes when she receives a letter from her uncle inviting her to Gallant, the family estate. When she gets there, however, she finds that her uncle is long dead, and that there are dark goings-on in the shadows.

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From a plot perspective, much of this book is exactly what you would expect. Between the blurb and the cover there aren’t a huge number of surprises, yet Schwab still manages to take us down a route that is both unexpected and familiar at the same time. I’m very particular about my ghost stories, and this is my favourite kind; a simple set-up, an atmospheric tale, and a few dark twists. This was a very character-led story, and the journey the characters went on was remarkable while still being understated.

There are also illustrations throughout this book which are stunning and complement the story beautifully. Just like the story itself, they are simple but effective, and filled with tiny details.

This book has confirmed for me that V. E. Schwab is one of the most versatile writers out there. Her ability to draw you into any story is incredible, her imagination knows no bounds, and her books stay with you long after you finish the final page.

Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with an advance copy for review. All opinions are my own.