I read this book via NetGalley. I debated between 4 and 5 star for a bit, before settling on 5.

I read this book in one day, it grabbed my attention that strongly from start to finish. This macabre world was fascinating to keep reading. It felt a bit confusing at times to follow along, but it ultimately did not ruin my experience reading.

"You wonder why the world is so very hungry for us. It is for the heavy sins we carry, for the rot here."

A strange world where people fearfully worship the terrifying monsters of the woods and the sea. They practice cult-like traditions in attempts to protect themselves, but as our main character Hyacinth learns-- the Gods care little for these rules and traditions. They will eat what they want, when they want. Ultimately you cannot sacrifice others for your sins, the rot will continue to fester.

I think the ending is a bit rushed, and a few points confused me.

There's so much more I want to think about-- The abuse women suffer and the ways they rebel to carve their own lives. The queer themes. The concept of sin... I'll be thinking about this book for a while.

"Don't be foolish, or wicked, or loud. Don't be brazen, wild, hopeful, hungry. Be pretty, be quiet, be good."

Beautiful prose, descriptive and intense. It is a very atmospheric story, with an unsettling tone throughout. A wonderful commentary on "otherness" and "womanhood." At times I wasn't sure who the monster was: the Teeth, the Deep, or the men.