A Study in Drowning
by Ava Reid
A Study in Drowning is a hauntingly atmospheric dark academic fantasy that transports readers to the crumbling, salt-swept Hiraeth Manor. Effy Sayre, a young architecture student, has spent her life finding solace in the pages of her favorite epic, Angharad. When she wins a contest to redesign the late author's estate, she believes it is her destiny. However, she soon finds herself clashing with Preston Héloury, a skeptical literature scholar who is determined to prove the author was a fraud. As the two rivals navigate the decaying manor, they uncover secrets that blur the line between reality and folklore.
This Gothic mystery is perfect for children and teens who love The Atlas Six or House of Salt and Sorrows. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in lyrical prose, complex female protagonists, and the 'rivals-to-lovers' trope. Parents will appreciate the book's exploration of truth, legacy, and the power of stories to shape our world. With its dreamlike atmosphere and high-stakes tension, it is a great choice for older teens who enjoy immersive, magical realism and historical settings.
Highlights:
- A lush, Gothic atmosphere set in a decaying seaside manor.
- A compelling 'rivals-to-lovers' romance between two determined scholars.
- Deep exploration of folklore, mythology, and the reliability of history.
- Perfect for fans of dark academia and lyrical fantasy.