WITHIN THESE WICKED WALLS

A young woman faces internal and external demons in the name of love in this reimagining of Jane Eyre.

In an alternate Ethiopia, Andromeda is a debtera, someone responsible for exorcising the Manifestations of the Evil Eye, negative energy that brings misfortune. Unlicensed in her field, Andi has difficulty getting regular work. Her new client, Magnus Rochester, is potentially her ticket to change, so long as she successfully rids his castle of the Evil Eye. As it turns out, her uncertified status and consequent desperation to succeed were precisely why she was chosen for the job. Andi’s confidence in her ability to complete her assignment is shaken following the terrifying experiences of her first night, as she discovers why several other debtera before her have failed. Her relationship with her moody boss starts out frigid but soon thaws and heats up at a rapid pace, crossing into intimate, romantic territory. However, their growing attachment may prove the most dangerous part of the job for Andi. Blackwood’s storytelling skills and the worldbuilding and fantasy components of the novel will likely intrigue readers. The romance, however, while a major focus that contains moments of palpable chemistry and connection, feels underdeveloped. The staccato pacing reflects the mercurial natures of the protagonist and her love interest but disrupts the flow of the story.

A promising debut despite some inconsistencies.