★★★★
Such a thrilling read. This book reminded me of a TV show, something along the lines of Criminal Minds, or Bones, with a splash of paranormal. There were great character dynamics, an enthralling plot, and overall very binge-worthy.
The premise of this book is utterly unique. The main character, Myfawny Thomas, wakes up in the middle of a field with no memory of who she is. Guided by a a series of letters written to her by the person she was, Myfawny navigates her perplexing job as Rook to the Chequey, a clandestine organization that specializes in paranormal occurrences. But a long dormant threat is rising: the Grifters. And as Myfawny investigates, she finds connections that might just explain her memory loss and reveal the person behind it.
Sounds interesting, right? Yes, because it totally is! Not to mention that Myfawny Thomas is a hilarious character to read about. Lots of the beings she encounters are chilling and weird(the flesh cube or the mold or the guy in the fish tank, yuck!), but her internal dialogue keeps things fresh and are a comic relief. She’s also a strong character and isn’t afraid to stand up to her superiors or to take action while everyone else is squabbling. Very badass, but also very human as well.
Most members of the Chequey have “powers”, so to speak, but they aren’t your typical invisibility or telepathy. Myfawny has the ability to influence a person’s biological functions, like making people freeze or go blind, or something like that. There’s a person who inhabits four bodies, a contortionist, a dream-walker, and so on. So many paranormal/urban fantasy use the same recycled concepts, but none of the powers here were cliched or trite, and that was a relief to read about.
There’s also a strong cast of secondary characters. Ingrid, Myfawny’s assistant, and Shantay, the visiting American Rook, provide support and add dimension to the storyline. Their interactions are funny, and their ability to get things done are admirable. Each stood out as individuals, and made the story that much more fun to read.
If you read this, you’ll fly throughout the pages. I certainly did, and I loved it every step of the way. The letters from old Myfawny got boring, especially when it interrupted a scene and didn’t explain anything new. I skipped some of them, then went back once I’d finished the book, and I found then much more enjoyable. Anyways, people should totally read this book! You won’t be disappointed!
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