Lovely, Dark, and Deep by Elisa A. Bonnin | Book Review

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Disclosure here.

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Will Faith and her friends find out what is at work in the forest and finally put an end to it?

Maria Faith Castillo, known as Faith, is a Filipino fire Naturalist— a type of mage capable of controlling elements—who is beginning her senior year at Ellery West. She is classified as a Red-Stripe student, which means she is on probation due to an incident involving dark magic that resulted in the death of her best friend, Sydney Price. As Faith tries to settle into her final year, sinister events begin to unfold, all linked to the forest. What do these occurrences mean for Faith, and will she and her friends be able to stop them?

This book is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing my attention from the very first page. The intricate development of both the characters and the plot makes for a compelling read that I found difficult to put down. I truly appreciated the many unexpected plot twists that kept me on my toes, adding an element of suspense that I thoroughly enjoy. The seamless transitions between the present and Faith’s earlier years as Ellery West added depth to the narrative, allowing me to understand her character’s evolution in a richer context.

Faith is a relatable and captivating protagonist. Her struggles and triumphs resonate deeply, making her journey feel authentic. I find her name beautiful, and it perfectly encapsulates her character—full of hope and resilience. Nicholas, with his kindness, serves as a grounding force, while Cari’s loyalty and spunky spirit bring vibrant energy to the story. Yvonne stands out with her nonchalant demeanor, providing moments of levity and intrigue. Alex, who shares my experience of being autistic, adds another layer of representation, making her character incredibly relatable. Her charm and unique perspective are wonderfully woven into the narrative.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the dark academia genre and is looking for a story filled with twists and turns. Whether you’re an avid reader or someone looking for a new favorite, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

My rating

About the Author

Elisa A. Bonnin was born and raised in the Philippines, after which she moved to the United States to study chemistry and later oceanography. After completing her doctorate, she moved to Germany to work as a postdoctoral scientist. A lifelong learner, Elisa is always convinced that she should “maybe take a class in something” and as a result, has amassed an eclectic collection of hobbies. But writing will always be her true love. Publishing a book has been her dream since she was eight years old, and she is thrilled to be able to share her stories finally. She is the author of Dauntless and Stolen City.