I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review. This review is based entirely on my own thoughts and feelings.

Overall rating : 3*
Writing skill : 3*
Plot: 3*
Pace: 4*
Characters: 5*

I really really wanted to love this, but I found the story a bit convoluted. It switched between perspectives, and locations, often and within chapters. It was just a bit hard to follow. I also found you needed to know a lot about the mythological story of Minos, which I didn't. I have recently discovered the mythology genre and what I've read so far explained things so well it was easy to follow what was happening having no prior knowledge of the original story.
The winning factor of this book was the imagery and the relationship between Minos and Nell, I was invested and championing them. If you're a massive mythology fan, i think you may get on with this story much better than I did.

I received both the eBook and the audio version of this book, and would also rate the audio 3*.

DNFed at 20%. I found it very slow, unengaging, and difficult to follow. Therefore I won't be sharing a review.

I wish I had loved this more but it was quite slow and had a weirdly described relationship between our main character Nell who is a child and Minos. Unfortunately gave me the ick and that’s so hard to get past! I did love the Greek / Charles dickens vibes. Original. Maybe just not for me?

As beautifully written as I expect from Robert Dinsdale and a branch out into mythology/historical fiction.

I loved the premise of this book and it was cleverly done. Minotaur as a main protagonist is such an interesting one and I loved his character being revealed to us. We also meet Nell and how these characters are entwined together.

It’s a steady mover with a great old Victorian vibe. it’s enchanting in its storytelling and has you wondering what’s around the corner. Maybe a little too steady at times for me but it was still engaging.

Occasionally the author drew you into the story and I can’t help but appreciate how beautifully it was written!
And also, can we appreciate the narrator of the audiobook, who did THE best Minotaur voice that had you truly believing he was the very beast himself.

The ending too?! Aw. Not going to lie, grab a tissue! I was tearing up and it was a beautiful way to end such a well crafted book.