Review: Crimson Peak by Nancy Holder

       

Print Length: 352 pages

Publisher:  Titan Publishing (October 20, 2015)

From Goodreads.com: When her heart is stolen by a seductive stranger, a young woman is swept away to a house atop a mountain of blood-red clay: a place filled with secrets that will haunt her forever. 

Between desire and darkness, between mystery and madness, lies the truth behind Crimson Peak. From acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro.

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My Rating: 5 stars out of 5

Anyone who knows me knows that I absolutely LOVE the movie Crimson Peak. The costumes, the set, the story (the fact that Tom Hiddleston is in it). In fact, I would categorize this as one of my favorite films. To the point that I own a copy of the script, and even a tea blend inspired by Sir Thomas Sharpe. So when I saw that there was a novelization of the book, I knew I HAD to have it. 

What I expected? A more detailed version of the script. You know, the lines from the movie, but with details from the movie about the characters, how they walked, what they wore, etc. 

What I got? A deeper look into the minds of the characters that was entirely unexpected and wholly welcomed. In fact, I think after reading this I understand these characters even more than I did before. There were a lot of little details added in that either weren't in the movie (i.e. following Alan along on his journey to Allendale estate during a blizzard), or meanings behind things that I hadn't considered (like the fact that Lucille wanted the ring for a reason I hadn't considered before). I also very much enjoyed the glimpse into Thomas and Lucille's tragic childhood. As hard as it was to read about the abuse of children, I think it helped me gain a deeper understanding of Lucille especially, and why she and Thomas were the way they were. 

And then the most unexpected part? The "house", or rather the evil that lives in the house being a character as well. We follow along as it "watches" the characters, as it influences them, as it taunts them and twists them. This was an aspect that I felt added so much to the overall story, and it makes me view the movie in a new light as well. 

I know I'm probably bias due to my love of the movie, but if you are a fan of the movie (or of gothic romance in general), I would definitely recommend checking this one out! 

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                                                             Crimson Peak is available from Amazon.com