⭐️⭐️ I don’t say this lightly: I loathed this book. Macallister’s writing is fine—it’s her subject that’s the problem. Aimee Crocker is about as appealing as a hangover. A real-life Gilded Age heiress, she indulges in everything: sex (threesome included), booze, drugs, the occult, and all things paranormal. There’s no emotional arc, no humility, and not a shred of remorse. Just page after page of debauchery wrapped in arrogance. I kept waiting for some glimmer of depth or self-awareness, but it came too late. Even the supporting cast felt like a lineup of deplorables. Yes, themes of female autonomy and rebellion peek through, but they’re buried under so much indulgence […]
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Love, War, and Legacy: A Journey Through the Castle Keepers
Collaborative novels like The Castle Keepers are on trend for good reason—they bring fresh perspectives and layered storytelling. Written by Aimie K. Runyan, J’nell Ciesielski, and Rachel McMillan, this book weaves three tales of love, war, and resilience. While the concept is solid, it didn’t wow me. Set during the Gilded Age, the Great War, and post-WWII, the stories follow three women navigating societal constraints and class divisions. The setting—a castle overshadowed by a family curse—adds an air of mystery that unites the narratives. The novel shines with its strong female characters, rich historical detail, and intriguing themes. The first two novellas stood out: Beatrice’s rise from scandal in “The […]
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