The Mirror (The Lost Bride Trilogy, #2) – A Reflection on Filler and Future
As the cozy season rolls in, it seems like the perfect time to curl up with a good book, especially one from a series that piqued my interest last year. After reading Inheritance, the first book in The Lost Bride Trilogy by author insert author’s name, I was eager to dive into The Mirror. The suspense and mystery wrapped in a gothic setting had me enraptured. But, as I turned the pages this time, I found myself navigating an unexpected blend of engaging moments and, frankly, what felt like a fair bit of filler.
When we last left Sonya and her friend Cleo, they were settling into their inherited mansion on the cliffs of Maine, only to discover it was haunted and burdened by a life-altering curse. The cliffhanger from Inheritance had me on edge, excited for the unraveling of secrets and mysteries. However, The Mirror shifted focus primarily to the everyday lives of Sonya and Cleo—from their cooking escapades to party planning—with a surprising amount of time dedicated to routines that felt somewhat out of place. It left me yearning for the suspense that originally intoxicated me in the first book.
Throughout The Mirror, we do meet several members of Sonya’s extended family, both living and dead. Each character adds depth, but I often found myself wishing for something akin to a family tree to keep track of the many threads. There are intriguing interludes showcasing the evolving relationships—especially the steamy encounters between Sonya and Trey, or the palpable tension between Cleo and Owen. Yet, these moments felt more like embellishments, lacking the riveting narrative drive I had hoped for.
What really stood out were the ghostly elements—the helpful ghost that guides the girls’ wardrobe choices and the playful child ghost who befriends the pets. They added a whimsical charm that both intrigued and frustrated me, given the darker tones we were promised with Hester Dobbs, the malevolent ghost reeking havoc at 3 AM. Hester’s vengeful presence is a fine foil for our protagonists’ resilience; it’s an excellent premise that just didn’t resonate as fully as I expected.
Despite these lingering feelings, I can’t deny that the writing itself remains fluid and engaging. The narrative has a lyrical quality, a testament to the author’s talent. Yet, instead of a crescendo of excitement, I felt a steady lull throughout the book. I desperately want the series to build towards a thrilling climax in the final installment, and I’m holding onto hope that it will deliver the suspense that was missing here.
For readers who enjoyed Inheritance, I still recommend picking up The Mirror, but advise a gentle approach—think of it as a bridge rather than a destination. It’s best to have the context of the first book, as it significantly enriches the experience and understanding of character dynamics. While this second entry may not fully satisfy, I believe those who appreciate character-driven stories might still find some enjoyment within.
In summary, while The Mirror might feel more like filler at times, I remain hopeful for the trilogy’s resolution. The journey has me reflecting on how anticipation can shape our reading experience, and I can’t wait to see where the curtain falls at the end of this triad. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this digital ARC—I’m eager for the conclusion and truly hope it wraps up with the excitement that Inheritance left me craving.
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