By Erin A. Craig.
The Thirteenth Child by Erin A. Craig is a dark, gothic fantasy that draws readers into a richly atmospheric world, reminiscent of classic fairytales.
The story follows Hazel, the thirteenth child in her family, who is born unwanted, unloved, and claimed at birth by the god of death, Merrick. From the moment Hazel is whisked away by her deathly godfather, her fate is sealed, and she embarks on a life as a healer, carrying the weight of life and death in her hands.
One of the book’s strongest features is its immersive writing. Craig masterfully builds a world steeped in mystery and foreboding, with a sense of timelessness that enhances the fairytale feel.
The imagery is descriptive, pulling readers into Hazel’s isolated existence and the ominous presence of Merrick, her grim reaper godfather. Merrick’s character is particularly fascinating—not merely a harbinger of death, but a complex figure with a dark affection for Hazel.
Hazel herself is a well-crafted and endearing protagonist. Despite her harsh upbringing and the weight of her destiny, she remains resilient, never giving in to despair. Her role as a healer provides an interesting dynamic, as she holds the power to save or condemn others while facing her inner battles. Readers will find themselves rooting for Hazel, hoping she can overcome the odds stacked against her.
The story’s tone is consistently eerie and gothic, perfect for fans of dark fairytales or gothic fantasy. The twists and turns, along with Hazel’s journey, keep the plot engaging, while the detailed world-building and atmospheric writing make the book a deeply satisfying read.
Read this if you like these tropes:
🕯️YA Fantasy
🖤Dark Fairytale 🕯️Strong Fierce FMC
🖤Gothic and Atmospheric
🕯️Magic
🖤Morally Grey Characters
🕯️ Single POV
Thank you so much to the author - Erin A. Craig as well as Lucy and the team at One World Publications for letting me have this beautiful copy in time for Halloween!
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