I guess I don't like gothic fantasy... Because there is nothing wrong with the story or the writing itself. In the end, the book was pretty boring to me. I also didn't appreciate the unnecessarily whiney and desperate tone the reader gave to opals voice (listened to the audiobook). But I loved the beginning! I was so curious about the house and the fact that it was a living thing. I wish the reader would get to know it better and the character of it would play a bigger role. The first half or so of the book has a couple of footnotes, which I imagine could be a little annoying if you read a physical copy. Would have probably DNF'd if not for the audiobook.

If there'd ever be a haunted house I'd sign up for, it would be Starling House. This story gives off Ghibli x Gallant vibes and I'm all here for it 'cause it shows beauty beneath all the ugliness, the magic in the most simple gestures. The protagonists are not beautiful but crooked and twisted, untrustworthy and lost. But they are also strong willed and clever, more empathic than they led on and do have a big heart they don't want you to see. And if this gothic tale alone doesn't make you shiver in your seat, just know that it's based on true events and people.