Review of Lovely Dark and Deep by Elisa A. Bonnin
When I first stumbled upon Lovely Dark and Deep by Elisa A. Bonnin, the enchanting premise of a hidden island steeped in mystery instantly captured my imagination. An island that doesn’t appear on any map? It sounded like a story that would envelop me in its magic, and I wasn’t wrong! Bonnin has a gift for weaving intricate narratives that feel both fresh and familiar, and this book is no exception.
At the heart of the story lies Faith, our bisexual protagonist, who navigates a unique and often perilous magical education at Ellery West. It’s here that the author not only introduces us to a world brimming with fantastical elements but also delves into profound themes such as grief, trauma, and the quest for belonging. The delicate balance between romance and the urgent pulse of the fantastical adventure kept me on my toes—there was never a dull moment. As I read, I found myself whispering affirmations to Faith, rooting for her growth while grappling with her struggles of PTSD and generational trauma.
Bonnin’s vivid imagery is simply stunning. I could almost feel the eerie mist of the forest swirling around me, each page drenched in an atmosphere that tugged at my imagination. The concept of the "Red Stripe" class, reminiscent of the Scarlet Letter, is particularly brilliant—it symbolizes the complexities of identity and the dichotomies present within us all. It also adds tension and intrigue, making each character’s journey deeply compelling. The students labeled as "dangerous and unpredictable" were not simply plot devices, but reflections of the nuances within the human experience. As someone who often struggles with feelings of self-worth, I found myself deeply resonating with characters like Faith and Alex, both of whom face their demons throughout the narrative.
One quote that struck me profoundly was, “Maybe belonging was a decision.” This sentiment echoes through the pages, underscoring the importance of found family. The representation of a diverse cast—each character with their own magic and backstory—reinforces that sense of community and connection that is vital in any coming-of-age journey. Bonnin gives us characters who are not just navigating magic but are learning to reclaim their hearts amidst chaos. The moments of growth—particularly Faith’s realization of her own strength—felt like a personal journey of discovery for me as well.
Bonnin’s writing style is beautifully lyrical, yet accessible. The pacing is spot on; I found myself lost in the pages, unable to put it down during even the most mundane breaks of my day. I was emotionally invested, feeling each character’s pain and joy as if it were my own. The way Bonnin integrates themes like grief and trauma without sacrificing the magical essence of the story is commendable. It feels like a breath of fresh air in the fantasy genre, pushing boundaries while still resonating deeply with readers’ hearts.
I believe Lovely Dark and Deep will resonate with anyone who seeks a beautifully crafted tale of magic, belonging, and self-discovery. If you enjoy stories that explore complex emotional landscapes alongside riveting adventures, this book is a must-read. Personally, I walked away feeling inspired and ready to embrace my own unique magic—much like Faith ultimately does.
In conclusion, Bonnin has truly created a tapestry of wonder and introspection, making Lovely Dark and Deep a captivating addition to the landscape of contemporary fantasy. I can’t wait to see what she crafts next! Thank you, Netgalley and Feiwel & Friends, for this mesmerizing ARC. 🖤✨