I really wanted to push through but at 71% I just couldn't continue anymore.

First, I really couldn't stand the romance at all. Spoiler: The main character goes from being mute (because of trauma) and suicidal, to being in love with a "shadow beats", who wanted to kill her a day ago, in two days. You may think it's because of her mental health and need for another person, any person, but it's not written that way at all.
There is zero emotional connection between the characters and I really couldn't understand why they fell in love immediately ... I didn't got an answer from the main characters inner thoughts and monologue either...
I continued reading because I absolutely enjoyed the atmosphere. A creepy, gothic castle surrounded by a small secluded village, with residents full of ancient superstitions? That's right up my alley! I loved the mystery around the small spanish town and that only those who believe in the old stories and secrets stay there.
Sadly that was the only thing that I liked about the book. I maybe could have overlooked the fact that I din't like the romance, if the writing would have been better. I often found myself confused by it and had to reread passages to make sure I didn't miss anything. For example, there are three characters in a scene, but suddenly one of them isn't mentionend anymore, even if they should have a reaction to what is happening.

Although I didn't enjoy the book I want to thank NetGalley and Puffin Books for giving me an arc in exchange for an honest review.