The enthrallingly dark and unsettlingly creepy sequel to Perfectly Preventable Deaths is just as immersive,humorously macabre and richly atmospheric as the first—a chilling page-turner I practically devoured it was soo good.
It’s starts up shortly after the events of the previous book. Madeline having made a deal with Mamó (her soul and seven years of servitude) to save her sister, is now under the wise woman’s tutelage and learning ancient magic she never thought possible. Her twin, Catlin is still haunted by what happened and feels more isolated than ever.
But strange things are still happening and Madeline knows she has to keep watch. On her sister. On the things that happen. To notice them before they happen—long,long before…
Once again Deirdre Sullivan serves us with another richly compelling and utterly addictive book that I literally couldn’t get enough of; it’s told from the POVs of both Madeline and Catlin instead of just Madeline which I felt added more depth to the narrative.
I still absolutely loved Madeline who’s willingness to sacrifice everything for the ones she loved deeply endearing. I still felt that, although Catlin suffered a great deal of trauma and sympathised with her greatly, as a character she’s still wasn’t as likeable as her twin but she has the best humour (even if it’s a little dark) and I enjoyed getting to see more from her POV.
Though I must admit the sensitive way Sullivan depicts Catlin’s emotional development was incredible and felt organic for someone suffering trauma. It’s some of the most emotionally evocative writing I’ve read in a while and it’s simply phenomenal.
Mamó was also one of the characters I wanted to explore more about as she was such a mystery in book 1 and seemed a rather feared and misunderstood figure. We don’t get too much backstory for her but what we do learn really makes me like her more than I thought I would.
We also delve more into the secrets of Ballyfrann, and even shed a little more light on the towns’ inhabitants (including Brian.) However with soo many strange occurrences and generations of secrets we’re left with just as many questions as answers which has me hoping there’s going to be a book three.
If you love your fiction magical, atmospheric and with a hint of the macabre then this is definitely the book for you. Though there is quite a bit of gore so consider yourself warned.
And thanks to Hot Key Books and NetGalley for the e-arc.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Precious Catastrophe is Out Now