Themes of jealousy, betrayal and vengeance abound in this dark and deliciously atmospheric, gothic retelling of The Nutcracker —that I found both eerie and compelling in equal measure. 

Firstly, I didn’t realise this was written by the same author as The Tearling trilogy until I was halfway through. But I should’ve guessed, as I adored Erika Johansen’s vividly descriptive prose in that series soo much (particularly for a lot of the dream/ flashback sequences.)

Her almost effortless ability to weave such intricate details into pacy, plot twisty narratives; whilst retaining the depth and emotion that makes her writing soo compelling is simply breathtaking. 

And worked perfectly for this dark (and beautifully immersive) Grimm’s fairytale-like setting. With its eerie cast of mysterious, yet sinister characters (Drosselmeyer and The Sugar Plum Fairy)— readers are almost guaranteed to be on the edge of their seats for the majority of the story.

However, the complex and juxtaposing dynamics between Twin sisters, Clara and Natasha (pitted against one another at birth) is what really captivated me the most. Told entirely from the POV of Natasha, the “bad/cursed” twin —I couldn’t help but find her perspective endearing.

Slighted and neglected by everyone around her (including her own parents), and forced to live in the shadow of her twin, it’s not surprising that she finally acts upon the resentment and jealousy she’s bottled up her whole life. And everything that happens after that was deliciously intense! 

It’s definitely the darkest take on The Nutcracker I’ve ever read, but has easily become my new favourite. I finished this in November and must say the gothic, horror-like tone pared perfectly with the dark and chilly weather the UK is having. As such, I highly suggest reading this during the colder months, as the lush world-building and atmospheric descriptions will feel waay more immersive.  

And, if like me you love a dark fairytale retelling or have been eager to delve into a spookier, less saccharine take on The Nutcracker— then this is definitely one you don’t want to miss! Though do check TWs first.

Also, a huge thank you to Chloe Rose and Penguin for this absolutely stunning (Micaela Alcaino designed) PB copy.