A review by a_leos_bookgraph
The Manor of Dreams by Christina Li

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

A tragic and haunting gothic thriller that exposes the truth behind the inheritance of a dead Hollywood star’s dark secrets.

Vivian Yin was an 80s starlet who, after tragedy strikes, slowly disappears into the buried secrets that haunt the halls of the Lowell mansion. In an attempt to right many wrongs, her life and legacy is left to the mercy of a house she desperately tried to make home. Eventually, the darkness imprinted into the fabric of the house brings to light multiple tragic endings.

Following multiple POVs of two Chinese American families, The Manor of Dreams is packed with great storytelling. Li covers abuse, LGTBQ+ relationships and identity. I really felt for Vivian, a talented Woman of Colour ultimately expected to bend a knee to everyone. In her final act she proves to be a woman not meant to be ignored.

If you liked Mexican Gothic, I think you’ll love The Manor of Dreams

Thank you Simon & Schuster 
Canada and Netgalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review