Belladonna Review

Author: Adalyn Grace

Orphaned as a baby, nineteen-year-old Signa has been raised by a string of guardians, each one more interested in her wealth than her well-being—and each has met an untimely end. Her remaining relatives are the elusive Hawthornes, an eccentric family living at Thorn Grove, an estate both glittering and gloomy. Its patriarch mourns his late wife through wild parties, while his son grapples for control of the family’s waning reputation, and his daughter suffers from a mysterious illness. But when their mother’s restless spirit appears claiming she was poisoned, Signa realizes that the family she depends on could be in grave danger and enlists the help of a surly stable boy to hunt down the killer.
 
However, Signa’s best chance of uncovering the murderer is an alliance with Death himself, a fascinating, dangerous shadow who has never been far from her side. Though he’s made her life a living hell, Death shows Signa that their growing connection may be more powerful—and more irresistible—than she ever dared imagine.

“Belladonna” by Adalyn Grace is a captivating blend of historical fiction, romance, paranormal elements, and murder investigation, creating a rich and immersive Gothic-infused world. The stunning cover is a fitting representation of the atmospheric descriptions that bring Thorn Grove to life, adding depth and allure to the narrative.

The novel introduces Signa, an orphaned nineteen-year-old navigating the treacherous waters of wealth, desire, and betrayal within the enigmatic Hawthorne family. As she grapples with the mysteries surrounding her guardians’ untimely deaths, Signa embarks on a quest for the truth, uncovering a dark and dangerous web of family secrets.

The atmospheric descriptions are a highlight of the book, masterfully bringing Thorn Grove and its eccentric inhabitants to vivid life. Adalyn Grace skillfully weaves historical details into the narrative without burdening the reader with heavy and lengthy descriptions. The balance achieved in setting the tone and immersing the reader in the Gothic ambiance is commendable.

The character development in “Belladonna” is a strong suit, with well-rounded and interesting characters that evolve throughout the story. Signa, the protagonist, undergoes a compelling transformation as she confronts the challenges and revelations that come her way. The relationships between characters, including the slow-burning romance, add depth to the narrative.

While the story excels in character development and atmospheric world-building, the pacing may feel slow, particularly in the beginning. The mystery takes a while to unfold, and some twists and turns are presented to Signa without her actively seeking them out. This aspect of the narrative could benefit from more emphasis on investigative elements, allowing readers to participate more actively in solving the mysteries alongside the protagonist.

The romance, while eventually developing into a central element, takes time to fully unfold. The gradual nature of the romantic subplot adds depth to the characters’ connections, but readers who prefer a quicker pace in this aspect of the story might find the initial development slow.

In conclusion, “Belladonna” is a beautifully crafted novel that successfully blends various genres into a compelling and atmospheric narrative. Adalyn Grace’s ability to create a vivid world and develop well-rounded characters shines through. While the pacing may be slow at times, and certain plot points are handed to the protagonist rather than actively pursued, the overall experience is a captivating journey through a world of mystery, romance, and the supernatural.