Book Review: That Devil, Ambition by Linsey Miller
Ever since I stumbled upon Linsey Miller’s work, I’ve been captivated by her ability to weave dark intricacies into her narratives. When I saw the title “That Devil, Ambition,” it was an instant click for me. The blend of dark academia with fantasy themes—alongside a premise that promises moral quandaries galore—had me eager to dive in. Little did I know I was signing up for a tumultuous journey through ambition, survival, and the very essence of morality.
Captivating Characters and Complex Themes
The story revolves around three protagonists—Fabian Galloway, Credence, and Euphemia—who are students at the Stellarium of Cifra, the continent’s only school for magicians. From the get-go, each character is rich with nuance. Fabian’s self-confidence is a thin veneer hiding a depth of self-doubt, while Credence’s soft-hearted nature leads her to let others chart her course. Then there’s Euphemia, who juggles her absent-mindedness with a fierce will to survive.
Miller captures the essence of their friendship beautifully. The bond among the three is palpable, and I often found myself rooting for them, despite their increasingly unethical choices. The central premise—kill their professor, a devil from another world, or risk their lives—creates a tension that keeps you burning through the pages. It’s both audacious and terrifying, making you question how far you would go for success.
Immersive Writing and World-Building
Miller’s writing style is immersive, drawing readers into a vividly constructed world steeped in magic and mild political intrigue. The queernormative setting shines brightly, and the magic system is original and exhilarating, though I won’t spoil the details that made me gasp in delight. I admired how the author explored heavy themes without holding back—child abuse, grief, and despair simmer beneath the surface, making the story resonate deeply.
The pacing, particularly in the first two-thirds of the book, kept my heart racing. But toward the end, the narrative rhythm felt slightly off-kilter, leaving some questions tantalizingly unanswered. Yet, the moments of camaraderie and humor provided glimmers of light in the darkness.
Resonating Messages and Personal Takeaways
One of the book’s notable takeaways for me was its poignant reminder that “We are worth more than our academic achievements.” This struck a groove within me, especially in a world that often measures worth by tangible successes. The dynamics of friendship illuminated the notion of loyalty and the harsh costs of ambition.
While I found much to enjoy, I did feel certain characters met their end rather liberally—maybe a tad too much for my taste. The emotional weight of loss is felt acutely, but perhaps it pushed into a territory that was a bit difficult to digest. Despite that, I couldn’t tear myself away from the read; it was like witnessing a gripping car crash, both horrifying and impossible to ignore.
Final Thoughts
“That Devil, Ambition” is a compelling tale for fans of dark academia who can handle its uncanny depths. The authentic LGBTQ+ representation felt woven into the fabric of the story, enhancing its richness. As for me, this read challenged my perspectives on ambition and morality, leaving me with much to ponder long after I turned the last page.
If you are drawn to narratives that blend the fantastical with the ethical thicket of ambition, then Linsey Miller’s latest offering might just be your next obsession. It’s certainly not for the faint-hearted, but for those willing to delve into a haunting exploration of what it means to survive amidst the shadows, this book is a must-read.
Happy reading!
For further musings, don’t forget to check my blog at Gali Bookish.
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