This is a well-executed gothic fairy tale retelling that delivers on atmosphere and mystery, but it's dark. Really dark. We're talking multiple sister deaths, curses, ghostly visions, and a relentlessly morbid tone from page one.

For the right reader—a teen who genuinely loves horror and dark fantasy—this is engaging and well-written. The mystery keeps you guessing, the protagonist is smart and active, and the prose is genuinely beautiful. It's a legitimate page-turner for teens who want something spooky.

But this is absolutely not for sensitive readers or anyone younger than high school. The emotional weight is heavy, the deaths are described (not gratuitously, but they're there), and there's no light relief. If your teen loved Caraval or The Hazel Wood and is actively seeking darker reads, this fits the bill. If they're still reading Percy Jackson or prefer lighter fantasy, skip it.

The WISE score reflects that it's a quality book for a specific audience, but the dark content and heavy themes limit its broader appeal and developmental benefits.