The cruel dark delivered on its promises I think. I finished it in like two sittings over two gloomy days, and I enjoyed it. I’d say just suspend your belief and hand yourself over to the brooding gothic romantic vibes. I rate it like a 3.5 plus? Just missing a little extra something for me (Perhaps more resolution? There is a lot sprung on you by the end.), though I’d still recommend it. I imagine those feelings are improved by the novella so maybe I’ll read that one day.