Alice Reaper’s past clings to her like a shadow. Ever since the haunting night at the funeral home, her life has been consumed by nightmares and the oppressive weight of unseen terrors. Isolated from those she once loved, Alice resigns herself to a life devoid of joy or peace. But when Viviana enters her world, a glimmer of hope cuts through the darkness. For a moment, everything feels possible—until it doesn’t. Can Viviana pull Alice from the depths of despair, or will the shadows swallow her whole?

Ashes, by David Edgar Grinnell, is an evocative exploration of grief, despair, and the journey toward healing. Told in the raw, intimate perspective of first-person narration, readers experience Alice’s turmoil as if it were their own. Her father, Oscar, and other supporting characters add layers to the narrative, showing the different ways people live with—and sometimes succumb to—trauma. Grinnell doesn’t just present pain; he holds a mirror to it, reflecting its complexity and its power to shape lives.

While Ashes dives deeply into themes of sorrow and loss, it offers solace to readers who see their struggles mirrored in the characters. Tarot card readings and philosophical exchanges between Alice and Viviana provide moments of introspection and guidance, carving a path toward hope. The story is as much about finding light in the dark as it is about acknowledging the darkness itself.

Grinnell deftly weaves elements of Gothic tradition, paganism, and tender romance into the narrative, adding depth and dimension to the story. Viviana, with her Gothic charm and fascination with the dark arts, brings an air of mystery and intrigue. Though the spark between Alice and Viviana feels sudden, their unfolding relationship is both poignant and deeply satisfying. The romance balances the novel’s weightier themes, offering warmth and connection amid the bleakness.

One of the novel’s standout features is its cast of characters. Despite their youth, they carry a profound sense of wisdom. Their voices resonate with thought-provoking reflections, often quoting classic literature in ways that feel both meaningful and natural. These moments of insight elevate the story, offering readers not just entertainment, but inspiration.

At its core, Ashes, by David Edgar Grinnell, is more than a tale of grief—it’s a story of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of love. Readers drawn to Gothic themes, explorations of mental health, or heartfelt LGBTQ+ romances will find much to cherish in this beautifully crafted novel. It’s a reminder that even in life’s darkest moments, there’s a chance to heal and move forward.

Pages: 368 | ISBN : 978-1736867587