Bitterbloom

Bitterbloom by Teagan Olivia King is a dark, atmospheric, gothic horror fantasy (with a dash of spice) with some interesting worldbuilding around death and the afterlife.

Adelaide Thorn's mother died when she was young, and she herself has a mysterious illness, which her father apparently fears puts herself and others in danger, so he keeps her locked up away from the rest of the village, even her girlhood friends.

She stumbles upon a mysterious bell in the riverbed which kicks off a chain of events which leads her to a purgatory in hopes of reuniting with her mother.

The purgatory especially is creepy and haunting, and while King's prose can make it feel the action is slowing down at points, here it is particularly effective in creating a chilling atmosphere.

Bitterbloom is perfect for readers who enjoy their gothic fantasy with lyrical prose and dark atmosphere - and a bit of a love triangle.

Thank you to NetGalley and Turner Publishing Company for the copy for my honest review.