Beth Revis’s Give the Dark My Love is a compelling exploration of ambition, morality, and the lengths one might go to save those they love. Set against the backdrop of a world teetering on the brink of collapse due to a deadly plague, this novel deftly combines elements of fantasy, romance, and ethical dilemmas, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

The story centers around Nedra Brysstain, a seventeen-year-old from the rural northern territories of Lunar Island. Her journey begins with a scholarship to the prestigious Yugen Academy, where she aims to master medicinal alchemy. Nedra's character is immediately relatable; she is driven by a noble cause—to find a cure for the plague threatening her homeland and family. Her determination and resilience are palpable, making her a protagonist readers can root for.

Revis does an excellent job of portraying Nedra’s outsider status at Yugen Academy. As a scholarship student among the elite, Nedra faces social challenges that add depth to her character. Her interactions with her peers, particularly the wealthy and privileged, highlight the class disparities that exist within the world Revis has created. This theme of class struggle is subtly woven throughout the narrative, adding an additional layer of complexity to the story.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the novel is Nedra's relationship with Greggori “Grey” Astor. Grey is one of the few students who sees beyond Nedra's social status and is drawn to her intelligence and determination. Their relationship is a slow burn, evolving naturally as they work together to combat the plague. Grey's character serves as a foil to Nedra, providing a moral compass as she delves deeper into the darker aspects of alchemy.

The novel’s exploration of alchemy is both fascinating and chilling. Revis presents alchemy as a double-edged sword, capable of healing but also of destruction. As Nedra becomes more desperate to find a cure, she ventures into the forbidden realm of necromancy. This descent into darkness is handled with nuance, as Revis raises questions about the ethical implications of using such power. Nedra's internal struggle is palpable, and readers are left to ponder the cost of her actions.

Revis’s writing is both vivid and atmospheric, effectively capturing the bleakness of a world ravaged by disease. The descriptions of the plague’s effects are haunting, and the sense of urgency is palpable. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with moments of tension interspersed with quieter, character-driven scenes that allow for reflection and growth.

In terms of themes, Give the Dark My Love delves into the nature of sacrifice and the moral ambiguity of actions taken in desperate times. Nedra’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with the consequences of her choices. The novel raises important questions about the limits of science and the ethical boundaries of experimentation, making it a timely read in today’s world.

Comparatively, fans of Leigh Bardugo’s Shadow and Bone series or V.E. Schwab’s A Darker Shade of Magic will find similar themes of power and morality in Revis’s work. Like Bardugo and Schwab, Revis crafts a world that is richly detailed and populated with complex characters, making for an immersive reading experience.

Overall, Give the Dark My Love is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of fantasy and those interested in stories that explore the darker aspects of human nature. Beth Revis has crafted a tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, leaving readers to ponder the true cost of ambition and the lengths one might go to save those they love.

While the novel stands strong on its own, it also sets the stage for further exploration of its themes and characters, leaving readers eager for more. For those looking for a story that combines fantasy with ethical dilemmas and a touch of romance, Give the Dark My Love is a must-read.