A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid

A Study in Drowning

by Ava Reid

“Achingly atmospheric and beautifully sharp, A Study in Drowning will draw you in from the first page.” —Rory Power, New York Times bestselling author of Wilder Girls

Bestselling author Ava Reid makes her YA debut in this dark academic fantasy perfect for fans of Melissa Albert and Elana K. Arnold.

Effy Sayre has always believed in fairy tales. Haunted by visions of the Fairy King since childhood, she’s had no choice. Her tattered copy of Angharad—Emrys Myrddin’s epic about a mortal girl who falls in love with the Fairy King, then destroys him—is the only thing keeping her afloat. So when Myrddin’s family announces a contest to redesign the late author’s estate, Effy feels certain it’s her destiny.

But musty, decrepit Hiraeth Manor is an impossible task, and its residents are far from welcoming. Including Preston Héloury, a stodgy young literature scholar determined to expose Myrddin as a fraud. As the two rivals piece together clues about Myrddin’s legacy, dark forces, both mortal and magical, conspire against them—and the truth may bring them both to ruin.

Part historical fantasy, part rivals-to-lovers romance, part Gothic mystery, and all haunting, dreamlike atmosphere, Ava Reid's powerful YA debut will lure in readers who loved The Atlas Six, House of Salt and Sorrows, or Girl, Serpent, Thorn.

Reviewed by Quirky Cat on

4 of 5 stars

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Book Summary:

Effy Sayre has loved fairy tales ever since she was a little girl. The truth in those words resonated deeply with her, though she would never willingly admit that fact. Not when the world is so keen to judge her.

Her love of stories made her want to study literature. Unfortunately, the literature wing doesn't accept women, so she chose the next best thing – architecture. Yet, when given the chance to dive into the world of her favorite author, Effy doesn't hesitate. Not even when that brings her into a world of danger.

My Review:

I have heard SO much hype about A Study in Drowning, especially in collector forums. To my understanding, people were going wild trying to get their hands on the limited editions of various book boxes.

Naturally, that made me pretty excited to give it a try. While I enjoyed the overall aesthetic and moral of the story, I'll admit that I didn't find it as enchanting as I had hoped. That said, I couldn't quite put my finger on why.

Part of the problem is that I did struggle to get into A Study in Drowning. That said, once the environment changed and the layers of lies got pulled back, I became more invested in the story.

The mystery was a satisfying one. Looking closely, you can see how all the puzzle pieces fit together. It's always a good feeling when that happens, don't you think? Anyway, if you're looking for a book that merges fantasy, gothic vibes, and mysteries, this book is for you.

Highlights:
Gothic Fantasy
Mystery Elements
Dark Academia

Trigger Warnings:
Drowning
Abandonment
Sexual Assault (mentioned)

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 7 December, 2023: Finished reading
  • 7 December, 2023: Reviewed