What is your opinion?
Just about the prettiest prose you can imagine
"Still Life is something I was not expecting at all. I don't often read historical fiction, but the themes are gothic and romantic and how can you not fall in love with Rose immediately. Her plight is worrisome - usually we don't see a protagonist offed in the first chapter, let alone already being mourned. But is she really dead? The story brought me back and forth across that line a few times, and I never really knew what it was going to be for at least six chapters (I think). The characters are very well developed. I'm a particular fan of Eleanor and Tom. And we won't talk about grumpa... sorry, grand-pere. There are some unique dialects throughout, and the language used is very period-appropriate. The pacing is generally good; slower to start, but mostly like a snowball rolling down a hill once the story gets going. I found myself annoyed that I didn't have time to keep reading on a few occasions. No noticeable punctuation or grammar concerns - this is very well edited. Honestly, my only real criticism was the announcing of changes in timeline in earlier chapters, but there was much more trust placed in the reader as I read on. Does it take a minute to reorient oneself when brought to a different place in time? Sure... but that's all part of the experience. The story gives a slightly disorienting feeling, with intention. There is so much atmosphere in the descriptions. I haven't quite made it to the end yet, but this is one I will certainly be continuing. What a brilliant, beautiful story. I hope to see much more from this author, and would love to see her take on something with more of a horror edge."
Great
""The themes in this story are woven in so naturally you absorb them without realizing it. This author has something to say and the craft to say it without being heavy handed.""
A brilliant combination of love, horror, and paranormal elements.
"Still Life is masterfully written. Up to the point I’ve reached, the story explores a subject that happens to everyone—but, of course, I’m not going to spoil it. It shows what this experience would look like for someone going through it, and it’s both emotionally devastating and terrifying to imagine yourself in that situation. This event adds so much depth to the FMC and the people around her. I feel like it’s the pivotal point of the story so far. The best parts of this book, for me, are the imagery and the dialogue. You can imagine yourself in every moment alongside the FMC, and the dialogue is incredibly well written. It truly reflects the time period in which these characters live, and the way they speak captures that historical atmosphere perfectly. The emotions are portrayed so rawly and vividly that the story can bring you to tears. You can feel the characters’ pain and loss; it moves you and gives you chills. The writer really cooked when it came to conveying those emotions through the writing. The story takes its time and, in just five chapters, fleshes out several characters and their histories with the FMC. This makes you connect with them and understand their pain. This is a wonderful read. If you enjoy deep romance, horror of a different kind, and paranormal elements, don’t waste another second — go read this work. #ICBC"
Gripping
"I will say, when I read the title for the first chapter, I wasn't sure what to expect--especially with the story being a period piece. It could've gone in so many different directions and I'm pleasantly surprised with the one it did. The opening is delightfully claustrophobic. The author does a wonderful job of placing you in Rose's shoes, so you as the reader experience the horror right alongside her. The writing and premise are both strong, and I will happily be back to read more. "
A Masterpiece of Horror and Tender Devotion
"Still Life is one of the most uniquely captivating stories I’ve ever read. It grips you right from the terrifying opening chapter, plunging you into the gothic horror of Rose being buried alive—fully conscious of her surroundings while trapped in her own body. The raw, suffocating dread of those early scenes is portrayed with chills-inducing precision. Yet, as the story unfolds, it weaves that intense atmosphere into a deeply moving and tender romance. Set in an era where men are rarely described as so loving and adoring toward their wives, Ethan completely stands out as a remarkable, devoted character. His unwavering love and gentleness give Rose hope through her darkest trials. Beautifully written with authentic historical dialogue and a touch of the supernatural, this book seamlessly transitions from a terrifying setup into a rare, unforgettable love story. Truly a must-read! #ICBC"
Fresh, Different narrative
"I am very intrigued by the fresh and new plot and main character of this story. I am still only 3 chapters in but I am curious to see where this goes and how the main character navigates her new "situation". The introduction to the setting especially the timeframe was done well and I am looking forward to more. And the writing especially in terms of the unsettling, uncomfortable fears, I could feel it which made me more immersed in the story. #icbc"
If anything bad happens to Rose ever again, I’m starting a riot.
"Very intriguing book. I find it really original, and I love the use of slightly archaic language. It makes you feel immersed in the period without making the book difficult to read, which is a really nice balance. The beginning especially is so well written that it literally gripped me and didn't let go. There’s already a sense of mystery and tension that made me want to keep reading and find out what happens next. Rose is such a sweet and likable character, and I already find myself rooting for her. I really hope things go well for her because I’m definitely invested now. "
An intriguing opening chapter
"I only read the first chapter of this book and I will definitely edit this review once I’ve read more. This first chapter does a fantastic job of establishing the tone early on. The writing feels deliberate and vivid. A hint of mystery is kept, the author avoiding to dump all the information on you at once. The setup is quietly gripping and makes you want to keep reading just to see what is actually happening. I like it!"
Still Life
"This book is amazing so far! I love how the author has immersed the reader into the story. The prose is perfect for the time period and the descriptions easily paint images. I enjoy the tension and suspension built naturally into each chapter. The emotions are raw and described in such a way that will leave you feeling for the characters. It just leaves you wanting more! I love the relationship between Rose and Ethan so far and I hope that, when she comes back, her family will allow them to be together. I'm so interested to learn more about this world and the supernatural forces in it. Like how Rose's mother, Eleanor has had at least two visions/premonitions. Simply *chef's kiss* #icbc"
A Story That Takes You Through Every Emotion
"Where do I even begin? While reading, I went through every emotion—from terrifying moments to pure happiness. The first chapters threw me straight into shock, and every paragraph made me feel more fear, pain, but also hope that Rose would be okay. The author beautifully captured the fragility of life, while moving between the past, present, and future. Rose’s emotional state is portrayed through tiny movements, expressions, and vivid images that come together to create a bigger picture of everything she is going through. And the dialogue! It fits the era so perfectly that it feels as if the author actually lived in those times. (Allie, are you hiding a secret from us? 😉) The descriptions of the surroundings are another thing worth mentioning. Everything feels vivid and colorful, and while you follow Rose’s journey through her thoughts and emotions, you also get to experience the atmosphere the author has created. If you’re looking for something truly out of the ordinary, you won’t regret picking this up. You’ll find mystery, self-discovery, a spiritual journey, a touch of gothic atmosphere, and so much love and hope. ❤️ #ICBC"
Enticing, spiritual and intriguing
"The story is extremely suspensful, binding and mysterious. I love how the author explored the past, it's traditions, approaches, folk tales. The language is exquisite, very well researched and supportive of the era. Spoiler alert! I generally love Gothic, a little on the side of horror and "anti-happy ending" stories. So reading several chapters and discovering what you expect to happen, doesn't, is an extremely exhilarating feeling! The author explores safety coffins, something I have had a big interest in, and I was so glad to read about it, I also like how it links with reincarnation, another intriguing topic for me. I hope I'll keep being surprised by this book! "
Mixing the past with spirituality!
"*cracks fingers* Ok! So! Imma have to come back to this one when I'm done with it but, this is as good a time as any to leave my two cents! Man... When I tell you there's simply no way for anyone to prepare themselves for the experience called: Still Life, I am putting it mildly! We start by travelling to the past! Both in setting and in spirit! Oh, and in language! Seriously, if I didn't know this was written in the 21rst century, I would easily mistake this for some Shakesperean era writing! Dialogues are all impossibly good! You are gonna need to google stuff to get the full picture! I mean this in the best way possible! Moonrose made sure to stay consistent with not only how people talk vocabulary-wise but also, stay true to the era politics and differences! All the characters have something to say! Something to offer! Plot points, opinions, backstories, they all mix together, effortlessly! And then, BOOM! The author takes us on spiritual journey unlike anything I've ever witnessed! Seriously, any description I could offer, would not do it justice! You're just gonna have to trust me and read it yourself! There is no way to describe the sort of imagery you'll come across! There are some heavy themes in there, mostly having to do with staying true to the era the story takes place during but, they only add to the narrative! Sit back, relax, buckle in and enjoy! "
An unexpected gem
"As someone who doesn't usually choose historical fiction, I was pleasantly surprised by this book! The era-appropriate prose and dialogue felt incredibly authentic. It has a gripping start where you're left wondering if Rose is really dead, given how aware she is of her surroundings. This setup does a brilliant job of introducing other essential characters. With excellent chapter hooks that keep you turning pages and perfectly timed flashbacks to her life, this is a highly engaging read! #icbc"
This book will give you chills!
"Still Life is definitely one of the most unique books I've ever read--and I'm totally here for it. I can't really say what I think without some major spoilers, so suffice it to say--go check out the book and if don't mind a few spoilers then feel free to read on. ****************************SPOILERS********************************** My mind was blown by the book starting off with the main character in a coffin--I have never in my life read a book where we start off with a dead character. And the character's distress at the situation--I mean, I felt it! Moonspirit did such an amazing job making you really FEEL every emotion the character was experiencing. It wasn't just Rose feeling scared, trapped or alone--I was right there with her. And when she finally started to feel more free and happy and at peace with what happened to her--I was there for that, too. Rose became someone who's life had meaning, who was important, and to see her friends and family mourn her really made me stop and think.... what if it was me? In that coffin--my life basically flashing before my eyes, not wanting to be dead, having so much that was left unfinished... this book was raw and deep and it made me feel. It was just incredibly powerful and meaningful. I really enjoyed and am honored that I was part of Rose's journey and I highly recommend checking out this amazing book. #ICBC"
An Intriguing Historical Mystery
"Still Life, has such an intriguing beginning! The author creates an eerie, almost dreamlike atmosphere that immediately made me wonder what was happening and where the story was going. Rose has a strong narrative voice, and her thoughts give the story an emotional quality that made it easy to connect with her. I also enjoyed the historical setting and the supernatural elements woven throughout. There’s a wonderful sense that something isn’t quite right, and the author reveals just enough to keep the reader curious without immediately answering every question. This is a unique start to a historical romance, and I’m very interested to see where Rose’s journey takes her next! "
🙊mind twisting
"A deeply chilling and brilliantly unpredictable start! The way sleep paralysis is portrayed is terrifyingly vivid, capturing that suffocating, helpless dread with uncomfortably realistic precision. Coupled with a masterclass in gradual tension building—where the atmosphere constantly orbits right on the edge of a climax—it keeps you completely on edge. To top it all off, the story is utterly mind-twisting, leaving you with zero clue where the plot will strike next. A gripping, atmospheric masterpiece of a setup✨"
A beautiful love story! ❤️
"I just finished reading this beautiful story. Allie has such a lovely writing style and describes the settings, emotions, and characters' actions so vividly that it's easy to picture every scene while reading. I absolutely admired Rose's strength and courage. After everything she went through, she never stopped fighting for what mattered most—whether it was literally fighting to survive, staying with the man she loved, or telling her story through a book in a time when women were denied so many opportunities. And Ethan... what a gentleman. A truly wonderful man, and I think the kind of partner many women dream of. He loved Rose wholeheartedly, paid attention to the things that mattered to her, and showed unwavering devotion throughout their journey. I finished this story with such a happy heart. Once again, thank you so much, Allie, for sharing such a beautiful story with us. ❤️"
Unexpected!
"Still Life begins as a gothic atmospheric horror of Rose being buried alive and grows into a few tender love stories unfolding as one reads on, while the mystery lingers in the background. The plot is unexpected, with a few twists one doesn't see coming, but readers sure would enjoy! I enjoyed the detailed writing style that does justice to the historical settings, supernatural elements, and heightened emotions of the narrative. I am looking forward to how it ends :) "
