Book Review: Hazelthorn by C.G. Drews
From the moment I heard whispers about Hazelthorn, I knew I had to dive in. C.G. Drews, the brilliant mind behind this gothic YA masterpiece, has a knack for crafting stories that linger in your thoughts long after you turn the final page. As a lover of eerie mansions, botanical horror, and complex characters, I felt a magnetic pull that I just couldn’t resist—and I’m so glad I surrendered to it.
Hazelthorn intertwines elements of murder-mystery, much like the twisty thrills of Knives Out, while simultaneously embracing a heart-wrenching tale of desire and self-discovery. Evander, our loveable protagonist, navigates a world that feels both familiar and unsettling, encapsulating the sheer ache of yearning and the struggle against societal expectations that often comes with being autistic. This representation is not just a footnote; it pulses throughout the narrative, resonating deeply with readers like myself. Evander’s grappling with autonomy, shame, and grief was something I connected with profoundly, making each poignant revelation feel like a mirror held up to my own experiences.
Drews’ prose is nothing short of enchanting. With lines that read like spellbinding poetry, she creates an atmosphere that is as immersive as it is terrifying. There were moments I had to pause my reading, heart racing, due to the beautifully creepy vibes she expertly paints. I could almost visualize the overgrown, abandoned garden as it sprang to life, each flower whispering secrets of the past. One passage struck me particularly hard: "If he could dig fingernails into the sides of Laurie’s face and peel back the mask, he would." It’s raw, visceral, and encapsulates the principal struggle of the characters’ desires against their own fears.
The slow-burn romance between Evander and Laurie had my heart screaming in a way only true yearning can. Their relationship is forbidden yet electric, filled with a tension that crackles in every encounter. They both know they shouldn’t feel this way, yet the pull is irresistible—an exhilarating push-and-pull that had me practically screeching with joy.
Moreover, the twists of the plot kept me guessing, revealing intricacies that invite close attention. While I might have predicted certain turns, this only underscored the brilliance of Drews’ foreshadowing. It’s a testament to her skill that, even when I thought I had it figured out, I was still utterly engaged by the layers unfolding before my eyes.
Hazelthorn is a tour de force that will resonate with anyone who craves an eerie yet romantic narrative filled with complexity. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy, horror, or simply yearning tales of love that grapple with identity, this book is an absolute must-read. It’s one of those rare gems that linger in your mind and heart, waiting to be savored again and again. My only wish is that it gets the cinematic adaptation it so richly deserves.
So, grab your blanket, a cup of tea, and prepare for a journey into a world where love is as intoxicating as it is terrifying. C.G. Drews has solidified her place on my bookshelf, and I have a feeling she’ll do the same for you. Thank you, NetGalley, for the opportunity to experience this hauntingly beautiful tale! 🌿
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