The Essex Serpent

I'm slightly embarrassed to admit the majority of the reason I bought this book was because it had Tom Hiddleston on the cover. I really wanted to like this book but I feel pretty underwhelmed and disappointed. This was very long winded and had trouble holding my attention. I didn't really care for any of the characters either.

I expected this to be more supernatural than it was (though it has the spooky atmosphere, really it's just about people), but its complexity and delicacy was enough to keep me involved for the duration. Especially liked the strength that Cora has despite her very oppressive past, and her relationship with her exceptional son.

Well, it's all very nicely written and easy to read but it just gently meanders along without anything of note really happening. The titular serpent barely figures and the promise of gothicky delights is sadly unfulfilled. Not unenjoyable but ultimate unsatisfying.