A Dive into the Abyss: A Review of That Devil, Ambition by Linsey Miller
From the moment I stumbled across That Devil, Ambition, I felt a thrilling pull akin to the way a moth is lured to a flame. The title alone whispered secrets of temptation and desperation, and knowing it was penned by Linsey Miller—a master of weaving dark narratives—had me hooked from the start. Dark academia infused with fantasy? Count me in!
As we embark on this gripping adventure, we meet our three antagonistic protagonists: Fabian Galloway, the ambitious yet self-doubting student; Credence, the gentle math whiz who often lets others dictate her choices; and the absent-minded Euphemia, who sacrifices everything just to survive. Set against the haunting backdrop of the Stellarium of Cifra, the continent’s prestigious school for magicians, their final year takes a sinister turn when they discover the gruesome task required to graduate: they must assassinate their professor, a devil from another realm.
Throughout the novel, Miller skillfully examines themes of ambition, morality, and the price of success. The pulse-pounding premise kept me questioning whether the ends truly justify the means. I found myself deeply invested in Credence and Euphemia, whose struggles and vulnerabilities echoed my own. Fabian, while often frustratingly ambitious and morally compromised, embodies the very concept of ambition that the story scrutinizes.
Miller’s writing style flows seamlessly, combining gripping narrative with intricate world-building that left me wanting to learn even more about this queernormative world’s magical system. I was particularly struck by her ability to unravel the characters’ complexities through their shared experiences and increasing desperation. The shifting perspectives between the three friends allowed me to delve into their thoughts and fears, but it was also a stark reminder of how ambition can twist even our closest relationships.
Each section was laden with evocative moments, like when the characters grapple with whether killing their professor is worth the price of their humanity. Miller doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of life; her willingness to kill off characters was at times shocking but undeniably effective in amplifying the narrative’s intensity. The chilling sentiment that “we are worth more than our academic achievements” resonated with me deeply, as it challenges the very foundation on which many define their worth.
However, while the story was meticulously crafted, I found myself longing for a few more answers, particularly towards the end. Despite being a stand-alone novel, I felt some loose threads could have been tied up more neatly. But isn’t that part of the beauty of dark academia? It leaves you wondering, contemplating the far reaches of its themes long after you’ve turned the final page.
As I reflect on my reading experience, I can confidently say that That Devil, Ambition is not for the faint of heart. With its raw exploration of morality, responsibility, and human connection amid violence and despair, fans of dark academia will find themselves entranced. Just be aware—this read might linger in your mind like an echo of whispered secrets in the night.
If you’re drawn to dark, thought-provoking narratives with rich LGBTQ+ representation and intricate world-building, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. The journey through ambition and its ramifications left an indelible mark on my heart, reminding me that true success isn’t merely what we achieve—but who we become along the way.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher, for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
For more insights, check out my blog at Galibookish.