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pineconek 's review for:

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
3.25
mysterious relaxing medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

(Review written Nov 2024, several months after finishing the audiobook). 

Here is what I take away from this book: motifs of bees, keys, swords, books, weird time stuff, living paintings, death heaven and hell, and the name Zachary Ezra Rawlins. Much like the Night Circus, the imagery in this book is exquisite and sumptuous. This one kept my interest a little bit more than Night Circus but, ultimately, was something I struggled getting into. 

Recommended if you're into secret societies that transcend space and time, a dark academia atmosphere, and a book that leans strongly into its aesthetic. 3.25 stars.