I wasn't quite sure what I was getting into when I started this book, but was impressed by the merging of regency with fantasy and a little bit of horror. 

There are two POVs in this book, Cordelia and Hester. Their age differences and personalities allowed for the story to feel like the reader has a broader view of the world they are in. However I think the side characters are what really made the story work. I won't give too much away, but the book is at its best when we have the cast of characters interacting and working with (or against) each other.

The pacing starts a little slowly, but builds up quickly without feeling rushed. The content is dark and the villain somewhat one-dimensional, but Kingfisher is able to infuse a lot more comedy than I was expecting and found myself appreciating. 

This is not a cozy fantasy in content (I recommend reviewing the content warnings), but at times it can feel like one. Things wrapped up almost too neatly at the end, but I was invested enough in the characters that I didn't mind getting some closure for each of them.

As a standalone this worked for me, and I enjoyed the writing.