Although this book is historical fiction which is definitely my jam, it is much later than the periods I usually like reading about. It also, and this is how you know this book is well written, is a gothic horror story, neither of those things I particularly enjoy. It also has some really graphic animal cruelty which I did not enjoy reading about. Even with these factors I still enjoyed reading it. The characters were interesting, especially Albie and his sister. I also enjoyed the time period and the descriptions were very evocative and lyrical which I really enjoyed.

Had I known this book was essentially a gothic horror I wouldn't have read it but I think I would have missed out. If those genres are your thing and you can get past the animal cruelty, then you will definitely enjoy this book.