A Mixed Bag of Magic and Mystery in The Book of Autumn by Molly O'Sullivan

Author: Molly O'Sullivan

Publisher: Kensington Publishing

Rating: 2.5★

As the leaves turn vibrant shades and the scent of cinnamon fills the air, the pull of dark academia and autumn-themed books becomes irresistible. One title that caught my eye was The Book of Autumn by Molly O’Sullivan. Set in a magical university nestled in rural New Mexico, this standalone dark academic mystery thriller promised a captivating mix of murder and intrigue. Sadly, my experience with the book was not entirely satisfying, leaving me with more questions than answers.

A Promising Premise

The story centers on Marcella Gibbons, who returns to her alma mater to help investigate a murder. The twist is that the murderer is alive, apprehended, and possibly possessed. This premise intrigued me immediately, suggesting a rich blend of suspense and supernatural elements. With a backdrop of enchanted libraries and shadowy corridors, I expected a thrilling journey through the unique world O’Sullivan had created.

Too Much Going On

As I immersed myself deeper into the narrative, I encountered a major issue: there was simply too much happening. The plot felt overwhelming, with numerous threads that did not always connect smoothly. One significant distraction was the excessive use of footnotes. While I appreciate world-building, the sheer volume—often three on every other page—was excessive. I often spent more time flipping back and forth on my Kindle than enjoying the story. Instead of enhancing my understanding, the footnotes detracted from the reading experience.

Lackluster Characters

Character development is vital in any story, and this is where The Book of Autumn struggled. I found it difficult to connect with the characters, who felt flat and underdeveloped. I wanted to feel Marcella's tension and conflict but often found her reactions predictable and repeating. Max, the love interest and magical soulmate, did not really bring much to the story. As the plot unfolded, I became less invested in their journeys, transforming what could have been an exciting experience into a chore. Readers expect emotional depth, and sadly, the characters did not deliver.

A Rushed Conclusion

As I neared the end of the book, I was struck by the uneven pacing. The climactic confrontation felt hastily put together, leaving me unsatisfied after the slow build-up. It was as if O’Sullivan, facing a looming deadline, rushed to tie up loose ends. This abrupt finale left me feeling cheated of a more profound resolution, which was disappointing given the story's potential.

Final Thoughts

Despite my critiques, I believe The Book of Autumn might resonate with some readers. The premise holds a distinctive charm that could attract those who enjoy a blend of mystery and the supernatural. However, the story needs more focus on developing its characters and interweaving its plot threads. For me, it was a decent read that ultimately fell short of my expectations.

If you’re a fan of dark academia and a magical university setting, you may find something of interest in The Book of Autumn. Just be prepared for a narrative that may not meet all your expectations. Happy reading!

Thank you, Kensington Publishing for an eARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.