Erin A. Craig's House of Salt and Sorrows is a hauntingly atmospheric reimagining of the classic fairy tale "The Twelve Dancing Princesses," infused with elements of gothic horror and mystery. Set against the backdrop of a secluded manor by the sea, the novel weaves a tale of familial bonds, curses, and the thin line between reality and the supernatural. Craig's debut novel is a compelling exploration of grief, suspicion, and the desperate search for truth amidst a web of deceit and enchantment.

At the heart of the story is Annaleigh, the protagonist, who is one of the twelve sisters living at Highmoor. The novel opens with a palpable sense of loss and foreboding, as the once vibrant household is overshadowed by the deaths of four sisters. The cause of these deaths is shrouded in mystery, with whispers of a curse hanging heavily over the family. Craig masterfully captures the oppressive atmosphere of Highmoor, where the sea's relentless presence mirrors the family's unending grief and the looming threat of further tragedy.

Annaleigh is a well-crafted character, whose development is central to the novel's narrative. Her journey from a sheltered young woman to a determined investigator is both believable and engaging. As she grapples with her suspicions about the true nature of her sisters' deaths, Annaleigh's resilience and courage shine through. Her character is a testament to the strength of familial love and the lengths one will go to protect those they hold dear. Craig's portrayal of Annaleigh's internal struggles and her gradual awakening to the dark forces at play is both nuanced and compelling.

The theme of grief is intricately woven into the fabric of the story. Each sister's death leaves a profound impact on the family, and Craig does not shy away from exploring the raw emotions that accompany such loss. The novel delves into the different ways individuals cope with grief, from denial and anger to acceptance and resilience. This exploration adds depth to the characters and lends an emotional weight to the narrative that resonates with readers.

Another significant theme is the idea of illusion versus reality. The sisters' nightly escapades to glittering balls, where they dance until dawn, serve as a metaphor for the allure of escapism and the dangers of losing oneself in fantasy. Annaleigh's growing suspicion that these balls are not what they seem adds a layer of tension and intrigue to the story. Craig skillfully blurs the lines between the real and the supernatural, keeping readers guessing about the true nature of the sisters' nocturnal activities.

The novel's setting plays a crucial role in establishing its eerie and otherworldly atmosphere. Highmoor, with its windswept cliffs and crashing waves, is almost a character in its own right. Craig's vivid descriptions of the manor and its surroundings create a sense of isolation and unease that permeates the story. The sea, with its ever-present roar and unpredictable nature, serves as a constant reminder of the family's precarious situation and the dark forces at work.

Craig's writing is both lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into the world of Highmoor with its rich imagery and haunting prose. The novel's pacing is well-balanced, with moments of quiet introspection interspersed with scenes of mounting tension and suspense. The mystery surrounding the sisters' deaths unfolds gradually, with carefully placed clues and red herrings that keep readers engaged and eager to unravel the truth.

The introduction of a mysterious stranger adds an element of romance and further complicates Annaleigh's quest for answers. This subplot is handled with finesse, adding depth to Annaleigh's character and raising questions about trust and loyalty. The stranger's secrets and motivations are intricately tied to the central mystery, and Craig deftly weaves these threads together to create a satisfying and surprising resolution.

In comparison to other retellings of "The Twelve Dancing Princesses," such as Jessica Day George's Princess of the Midnight Ball, Craig's novel stands out for its darker and more mature tone. While George's version leans towards a more traditional fairy tale narrative, House of Salt and Sorrows embraces its gothic elements, creating a story that is both chilling and thought-provoking. Craig's ability to blend elements of horror, mystery, and fantasy sets her work apart and offers a fresh take on a beloved tale.

Overall, House of Salt and Sorrows is a captivating and atmospheric read that will appeal to fans of gothic fiction and fairy tale retellings. Erin A. Craig's debut novel is a testament to her skill as a storyteller, with its richly drawn characters, evocative setting, and intricate plot. The novel's exploration of themes such as grief, illusion, and the enduring power of family adds depth and resonance to the story, making it a memorable and impactful read. For those seeking a tale that is both enchanting and unsettling, House of Salt and Sorrows is a must-read.