I liked many of the ideas in The Cruel Dark but the execution was extremely lackluster. The plot was very formulaic. Every step was predictable. That isn't necessarily a bad thing since random twists with no build up are a sign of poor writing. But the plot also shouldn't be stale. 

Looking at the overall rating, I'm obviously in the minority. So this novel works for many others. So if you're looking for a spicy, Gothic romance set in the 1920s, this book is worth giving a try. 

Thanks NetGalley, Bea Northwick and Victory Editing for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.