I loved this book and couldn’t put it down.

The author has created such an intense worldview by aligning us with Kathryn’s strange point of view. You know you shouldn’t support her actions (which are often gruesome) but you just WANT her to get away with it.

It’s set in Edwardian times, (and deftly researched- especially the First World War and the Paris opium scenes) but Kathryn reminded me of more contemporary psychopaths like Killing Eve or The Talented Mr Ripley.

The love aspect of the story is beautifully drawn and fully humanizes Kathryn.

I was initially dubious about the supernatural twist, but the author handles it well and it adds a great spooky atmosphere to the plot.

Will there be more from Natalie Bayley? I hope so.

Highly recommended.

Oh my gosh!!! The twists and turns!! I loved this!! It’s like you want her to succeed but at the same time you shouldn’t lol!! I can’t wait to see what’s next from this author!

Thank you for the opportunity to read this arc! I will definitely be buying a physical copy!!

5/5 stars

*Possible spoilers below*

I LOVED this book. I loved the style, the writing, the Gothic horror, the protagonist, everything about it.
Bone Rites is told through the eyes of a British noblewoman, Kathryn Darkling. Kathryn is a morally complex protagonist with a bit of a ghost problem. She wants to do everything possible to save her brother, especially because she considers herself responsible for his death.
I loved the “deathbed confession” style of writing in this book. I’ve always loved the unreliable narrator types, and Kathryn is a perfect example. Check this book out if you’re a fan of Gothic/magic/historical fantasy.
Thank you again to NetGalley for giving me an ARC of this book.