But Not Too Bold

Stylish, unnerving, and highly original, Pueyo’s debut novella (after the collection A Study in Ugliness) is a delightful genre mash-up combining gothic horror with monster romance. As one of the many servants of Capricious House, Dália spends her days taking care of the property and its mistress, Lady Anatema. An ancient, partially humanoid but mostly arachnid creature that seeks a bride, Lady Anatema has eaten every candidate after they see her true form because she does not like to be perceived. Dália inherits the prestigious but dangerous role of keeper of the keys after Lady Anatema suddenly eats her long-term predecessor. The Lady maintains that Dália’s predecessor stole some of her treasured belongings, but when that’s proven wrong, Dália must investigate which of the servants is the real thief and recover the stolen items. Along the way, she begins to unravel the secrets behind several of the servants’ lives and her relationship to Lady Anatema evolves past mere employer/employee. Despite their cautious closeness, Lady Anatema’s single-minded focus on retrieving her belongings could put Dália at risk of the fate that has befallen all brides before her. Dália’s personal growth and Anatema’s inventive monstrousness are highlights, and Pueyo makes their romantic tension palpable. Despite the limited page count, this packs an emotional wallop. (Jan.)