Reviews

This review was originally posted on my blog, Marissa Reads Books
This book is definitely a gothic one, I was even a little creeped out when I read it. We get dual perspectives in this narrative: we have Kristen, who lives in what is presumably the present, and Evelyn, who lives in the 19th century. Kristen has moved into Wakewater Appartments, which is a newly renovated facility that used to be a hydropathy sanitorium called Wakewater House. She has just gotten out of a serious relationship and wants to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Evelyn was sent to Wakewater House for hydropathy treatment for her "female hysteria." Evelyn works with "fallen women" (basically prostitutes), helping them get their lives together. We get a lot of Evelyn's backstory from reading through her perspective, but we also get information about what happened at Wakewater House from Kristen's neighbour Manon.

I really enjoyed this book. The imagery of the water surrounding the women at Wakewater House is really amazing. It's pretty much right on the Thames. When reading from Kristen's perspective, the water seeps into her home and her dreams, and you kind of feel like you also completely surrounded by water. I really liked that we got a lot of Evelyn's backstory, but I would've liked to learn a little bit more about Kristen since we don't really get a lot her backstory. I really enjoyed the character of Manon, her morbid curiosity with the Thames and the women who lost their lives there. For its length, I thought the story did what it set out to do; however, I wouldn't have minded if it were longer, with all the characters completely fleshed out.

I don't want to say too much about the plot since the book is so short, I don't want to spoil the whole thing for you guys. But, I will say that this story actually creeped me out. I kept looking behind me for the woman with wet hair because it made me feel like I was also being watched. I really felt like I was in Kristen and Evelyn's shoes. I would definitely recommend this one if you're in the mood for something creepy and gothic that you can get through in one sitting. If you've read this book, let's discuss in the comments. I'd love to hear your thoughts on it! If you're interested in giving this book a try, feel free to purchase it using my Book Depository affiliate link here.