Today marks the official release of Blackwicket by Bea Northwick, a dark and gothic fantasy that blends atmosphere, mystery, and a touch of the uncanny. I was fortunate enough to receive an advance reader copy (ARC) last month, which gave me the chance to read and review it ahead of publication.
My Thoughts on Blackwicket
I rated this novel 3 out of 5 stars, and here’s why:
- Atmosphere: The gothic setting and the idea of a cursed estate immediately pulled me in. Northwick’s prose is elegant and haunting, with the concept of “curse-eating” adding a unique twist.
- World-building: While intriguing, the magic system felt underdeveloped. Terms like drudge and curses were introduced quickly without enough explanation, which made it harder to fully connect with the world.
- Characters: The cast is morally complex, but the dynamic between Eleanora and Victor developed too abruptly. Their chemistry surfaced suddenly, without enough buildup to feel convincing.
- Pacing: The story jumped into action quickly, which left me wanting a slower introduction to ground myself in the setting. Some additional buildup would have deepened the impact.
Overall: Blackwicket is atmospheric, imaginative, and perfect for fans of gothic fantasy who love eerie settings and morally grey characters. While I had some issues with the pacing and world-building, I’m curious to see what Bea Northwick writes next.
Should You Read Blackwicket?
If your reading list leans toward eerie, mysterious novels with vivid descriptions and morally complex characters, Blackwicket is worth picking up. It would especially appeal to fans of writers like Erin Morgenstern, V.E. Schwab, or Silvia Moreno-Garcia.
Final Thoughts
With its official release today, Blackwicket is now available to order or download. I enjoyed exploring its secrets and shadows, and I think many readers will find themselves drawn into its haunting world.
👉 Will you be adding Blackwicket to your TBR this year? Share your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to know what you think once you’ve read it!
Blackwicket by Bea Northwick is available now from major retailers. You can order your copy here or check your local bookstore.
Want to know more, you can read my full blog and book synopsis here.
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