Hazel St. Lewis's Gilded Wicked Mirrors is a captivating foray into a world where the supernatural and the mundane collide in a dazzling dance of intrigue and danger. Set in the opulent city of New Swansea, the narrative weaves a tale that is as much about personal ambition and moral dilemmas as it is about the fantastical elements that define its setting. The novel's premise—a city once ruled by vampires now governed by the enigmatic Bargainers—sets the stage for a story that is both unique and compelling.

At the heart of the story is Quinnevere Ashelle, a character whose journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about survival. At twenty-three, Quinn is at a crossroads, her dreams of joining the Royalle Ballet slipping away with each passing day. Her desperation leads her to make a pact with the Bargainers, deities trapped in magic mirrors who offer power and knowledge at a steep price. This Faustian bargain is the catalyst for the novel's central conflict, and it is here that St. Lewis excels in exploring the theme of ambition versus morality.

Quinn's character development is one of the novel's strongest aspects. Initially portrayed as a determined yet somewhat naive young woman, her evolution is both believable and engaging. Her decision to make a deal with the Bargainers is driven by her passion for ballet, yet it is this very decision that thrusts her into a world of danger and deceit. As the story progresses, Quinn's transformation from a hopeful dancer to a determined investigator is handled with nuance and care. Her sense of responsibility for her friend's death adds depth to her character, making her quest for vengeance all the more poignant.

Prince Emrys, Quinn's archnemesis and reluctant ally, is another intriguing character. His initial portrayal as a typical 'bad boy' prince is subverted as the story unfolds, revealing layers of complexity that make him a compelling counterpart to Quinn. The chemistry between Quinn and Emrys is electric, their interactions charged with tension and wit. St. Lewis skillfully navigates their evolving relationship, balancing romance with the overarching mystery in a way that feels organic and satisfying.

The novel's setting, New Swansea, is richly imagined, its glittering facade hiding a darker underbelly. The city's history with vampires and its current reliance on the Bargainers create a backdrop that is both fantastical and eerily plausible. St. Lewis's world-building is meticulous, with each detail adding to the sense of a living, breathing city. The concept of the Bargainers—deities trapped in mirrors who trade power for a price—is particularly intriguing, adding a layer of moral complexity to the narrative.

One of the novel's central themes is the cost of ambition. Quinn's deal with the Bargainers is a classic example of a Faustian bargain, and St. Lewis explores the consequences of such deals with a deft hand. The novel raises questions about the lengths one is willing to go to achieve their dreams and the moral compromises that come with such decisions. This theme is mirrored in the character of Prince Emrys, whose own ambitions and past mistakes add depth to his character and highlight the novel's exploration of redemption and forgiveness.

The murder mystery at the heart of the story is well-crafted, with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged. Quinn's background as a medical examiner adds an interesting dimension to the investigation, allowing her to use her skills in unexpected ways. The reemergence of vampire-like killings adds a layer of suspense, and the revelation of the killer's identity is both surprising and satisfying.

In terms of style, St. Lewis's prose is both elegant and accessible, her descriptions vivid without being overwrought. The dialogue is sharp and often laced with humor, providing moments of levity amidst the tension. The pacing is well-balanced, with action sequences interspersed with quieter, character-driven moments that allow for reflection and growth.

Comparisons can be drawn to other works in the fantasy genre, such as Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass series or Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows duology, both of which feature strong female protagonists navigating complex worlds. However, Gilded Wicked Mirrors stands out for its unique blend of fantasy, mystery, and romance, as well as its exploration of moral ambiguity.

Overall, Gilded Wicked Mirrors is a spellbinding read that will appeal to fans of fantasy and mystery alike. Hazel St. Lewis has crafted a tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. The novel's exploration of ambition, morality, and redemption is both timely and timeless, making it a standout addition to the genre.