26 Oct Book Review of Love at First Fright
Love at First Fright by Nadia El-Fassi is a captivating blend of romance and the paranormal that promised to tickle my fancy from the moment I laid eyes on its cover. The intriguing premise of a horror author falling for a Hollywood actor (with a generous dose of paranormal flair) left me curious and excited to dive in. As a lover of cozy autumn reads, I couldn’t resist finding out how El-Fassi weaves the magic of love with the thrills of the supernatural.
The story unfolds through the dual perspectives of Rosemary Shaw, a horror author navigating her career and insecurities, and Ellis Finch, a Hollywood actor shackled by a toxic agent and a damaging reputation. Their dynamic is marked by the delightful tension of a grumpy/sunshine duo, a well-executed dislike-to-love arc, and the magnetic attraction that develops amid some seriously spooky settings—perfect for pre-Halloween reading!
One of the most delightful aspects of El-Fassi’s writing style is how effortlessly she immerses readers in Rosemary’s world. Her struggles with people-pleasing tendencies and the weight of expectation resonated deeply with me. I found myself cheering for her to assert herself, especially as she navigated a creative environment where her voice could easily be overlooked. There are moments of sheer joy as she embraces her identity and pushes against the constraints set by others, and I felt genuinely proud seeing her evolve throughout the narrative.
Ellis, on the other hand, was a character who melted my heart. The mystery behind his toxic relationship with his agent added a layer of intensity to his character development. I loved that El-Fassi allowed readers to peel back the layers of his reputation, revealing the tender and kind man beneath. It’s through Rosemary’s eyes that we come to appreciate not only his good qualities but also the heartbreaking realities that have shaped him.
While the romance between Rosemary and Ellis had moments of sweetness, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the relationship progressed a bit too swiftly for my taste. As a fan of slow-burn romances, I hoped for a deeper exploration of their emotional connection and trust-building. Their interactions were undeniably engaging, especially with the incorporation of consensual BDSM elements that felt grounded in respect and communication. However, the fast transition from attraction to love left me yearning for more exploration of their budding relationship.
Another intriguing layer of the narrative is the paranormal subplot surrounding Rosemary’s ability to see and communicate with ghosts. Initially, I thought this would play a more pivotal role in the overall story arc. While I cherished the subplot involving ghostly matchmaking, it felt more like a delightful side quest rather than an integral part of the central narrative. I wished El-Fassi had woven these elements more thoroughly into the fabric of Rosemary and Ellis’s relationship.
In conclusion, Love at First Fright offers an enchanting and character-driven romance that would appeal to readers seeking a cozy read filled with queer representation and themes of self-discovery. Its pacing might not cater to the appetite of everyone, especially those who savor gradual romantic developments, but the engaging prose and heartfelt character arcs make it worth picking up—especially as autumn creeps in. I’m now even more excited to explore El-Fassi’s first novel, Best Hex Ever, after experiencing this delightful tale. If you’re seeking something light yet impactful for your reading list, you might just find love at first fright!
