Wow. WOW! I meaaaaannnnnnn.... wow. What a fantastic novel- this review will surely end up being an incoherent mess but if it's all the same, I'm gonna try like hell to really give this review the justice it deserves. 

I don't really remember ever purchasing this book; it's completely possible that it was gifted to me during my birthday or even at Christmas. I decided to read this because I was in the mood for something dark and I wanted a standalone story to sink my teeth into. And this book delivered just that!! The writing style consistently evoked a moody, atmospheric New York City which relayed the perfect backdrop to this murder mystery (and a dash of dark academia!). Our main character Nell is working through her messy life when her father abruptly dies and the way that this story slowly unwinds to reveal its many surprises kept me endlessly entertained. I especially loved the way the past is told; the chapters break to the many side characters perspectives as they recount the memories to Nell. Those memories are slowly fed to us as the story progresses- making sure that the reader is keeping up with both the past and the present. It's definitely not a new concept, but it was executed so perfectly I can't help but gush about it!!

I just looooved this book. I sometimes questioned the cast of character's ambitions and decision making because some of the things they'd do, I would never have done! But that's what made this book so enjoyable anyway, I had to reserve my judgement until I got the whole story. The ending was so bittersweet (more sweet than better, to be fair) and it definitely left me wanting more. Not in the way that the ending feels inconclusive, but rather a sense of not wanting to say goodbye to this story and its characters. 

I think Peng Shepherd is an author I've got to keep my eye on for future releases! The way this story will stay with me for a long time! I would definitely recommend this undervalued book to people who love magical realism stand-alones!