It was a fun, campy, spooky little graphic novel that put me in the mood for spooky season - which I really need since it's basically October and still 90° outside. I thought Gwen and her friends were precious, their adventures were silly, the illustrations were so quirky and cool. The busybody, nosy vampire hunter dude (didn't bother to learn his name) was soooo annoying.

While it definitely delivered on the atmospheric vibe I wanted and a twisty little mystery, there was something about it that didn't completely pull me in. I think maybe the characters weren't interesting enough for me and I wasn't fully invested in them. That being said, the ending was WILD. I had a hunch about it but didn't think it would be like THAT.

The way I was completely valid in my hatred for Morella HAHAHA anyways I really enjoyed this. I got more than what I was expecting, honestly. It was much more atmospheric, eerie, and haunting than I was hoping for. There's something about books and the sea that always give me the creeps and this hit the spot for me. Little bit of romance, little bit of supernatural elements, little bit of deceit.

It's not...bad. it's just boring? I was iffy on this when I read the synopsis but I was hoping the strangeness would be enough to save it. However, it does not when the book is boring and way longer than it needs to be. The chapters are super long and it's like 30+ pages for a scene. The characters were well fleshed out and definitely had their own personalities it just didn't click for me.

This was such a cozy little adventure. I barely got 100 pages in and immediately added books 2 & 3 to my tbr. I loved Kianthe and Reyna's relationship and how they were both open with each other and how much they truly loved each other. I loved the little shop and life they created for themselves. Queen Tilaine can honestly eat butt for her actions. 4.5 stars

Rounded up to 4 stars. I understand why so many people talk about how much they love this book. I've never read The Goose Girl so I don't have an opinion on how this retelling of sorts compares to it but I love when a retelling is a unique story. I thought Vanja was a good character and I loved the atmosphere the story created. I love a good woodsy, fantasy book.