Book Review: Eternally Yours
From the moment I laid eyes on Eternally Yours, I was drawn in not only by the intriguing title but also by the unique premise of supernatural romances that make you ponder the very fabric of life and death. Edited by the talented Kendare Blake, this anthology promises a delightful mix of heart, horror, and the unpredictable twists of fate. As a lover of all things spooky and romantic, I couldn’t resist diving into this collection, especially after receiving a review copy from Penguin Teen Canada.
Let’s begin with the anchor of the anthology—its themes. Eternally Yours deftly navigates the complexities of mortality, love, and the unique intersections of the supernatural. Each story, while distinct, carries a thread of shared experiences around the struggles of love that transcends death. The anthology opens with “Undead Ghoul Meet Cute” by Kendare Blake, which cleverly balances cuteness with eeriness, setting a tone that resonates throughout the collection. It’s no wonder I rated it 4/5 stars—it was the perfect kickoff, blending sweet romance with a sprinkle of horror.
As I traversed the various stories, I found the recurring motifs of growth and self-discovery especially poignant. In “A Thousand More” by Chloe Gong, the creative use of reincarnation as a plot device captivated me, highlighting how history influences modern relationships. The love story unfolds against the backdrop of a school project—what a clever way to weave narrative depth into a seemingly straightforward assignment! The dynamics between characters were thoughtfully crafted, leaving me wishing for more beyond the short format.
However, not every contribution hit the mark for me. “Who Will Save Me” by Julian Winters felt a bit muddled—while I was enthusiastic about delving into angel lore, I craved more clarity around the magic system. This disappointment did slightly mar my flow as I moved from one story to the next. The same could be said for “In the Eyes of Angels” by Alexis Henderson, which held promise but ultimately left me confused amidst a labyrinth of ideas without full exploration.
Still, I found moments of joy and relatability, particularly in “Bloody, Lovely” by Casey McQuiston, where the main character’s journey toward self-love felt refreshingly authentic. That balance of romance intertwined with substantial character development made it one of my favorites, rated 4/5 stars, leaving me smiling long after I turned the last page.
As for the writing style, Blake and the other contributors navigated between light-hearted prose and darker themes with ease. The pacing varied—from quick bursts of excitement to more meditative passages that invited deeper reflection. Perhaps this balance contributed to the anthology’s charm, even if there were moments that felt slightly rushed or unclear.
In conclusion, Eternally Yours is an anthology that, despite its unevenness, will resonate with anyone who enjoys tales of love that dance along the edges of mortality. Whether you’re a fan of quirky meet-cutes or more somber stories dealing with loss, there’s something here for almost everyone. For those who appreciate supernatural elements and are willing to endure moments of confusion in the name of growth, Eternally Yours is a compelling choice. Personally, it’s reminded me of the beauty of love—how it can transcend the limitations of existence, all while punctuated with a touch of the macabre. So, grab a cozy blanket and lean into the blend of heart and horror; this collection is a proverbial Halloween treat that you won’t want to miss!
Happy reading! 💜