Violet Rae's It's In His Hiss is a delightful foray into a world where myth and magic intertwine with the everyday, creating a narrative that is both enchanting and deeply human. The novel is set in the whimsically named Screaming Woods, a place where the supernatural is the norm, and the unusual is commonplace. This setting provides the perfect backdrop for a story that explores themes of love, identity, and the struggle between isolation and connection.

At the heart of the story is Gordy, a grumpy gorgon who runs a bookstore—a haven for both the monstrous and the mundane. Gordy's character is a fascinating study in contrasts. On the one hand, he is a creature of myth, cursed with a gaze that can turn others to stone. On the other, he is a deeply relatable figure, grappling with the fear of his own power and the loneliness that comes with it. Rae does an excellent job of fleshing out Gordy's internal conflict, making him a sympathetic and engaging protagonist. His journey from isolation to vulnerability is both poignant and satisfying, as he learns to navigate the complexities of love and trust.

Enter Alice, a whirlwind of sunshine and chaos who crashes into Gordy's life—and his heart. Alice is a character who embodies the spirit of adventure and curiosity. Her quest to understand her own strange magic mirrors Gordy's struggle with his curse, creating a parallel that enriches the narrative. Alice's determination and refusal to be deterred by Gordy's warnings add a layer of tension and excitement to the story. Her character is a refreshing contrast to Gordy's grumpiness, and their dynamic is one of the novel's highlights.

The chemistry between Gordy and Alice is electric, and Rae skillfully builds their relationship with a mix of humor, tension, and tenderness. The progression of their romance is believable and heartwarming, as they both learn to confront their fears and embrace the possibility of love. The novel's romantic elements are well-balanced with its fantasy aspects, creating a story that is both magical and deeply emotional.

One of the most compelling themes in It's In His Hiss is the idea of transformation—both literal and metaphorical. Gordy's curse is a constant reminder of the danger he poses to those he cares about, yet it is also a symbol of his potential for change. Similarly, Alice's journey to understand her magic is a metaphor for self-discovery and acceptance. Rae explores these themes with nuance and sensitivity, making the characters' transformations feel earned and meaningful.

The novel also touches on the theme of community and belonging. Screaming Woods is a place where monsters and humans coexist, and Rae uses this setting to explore the idea of finding one's place in the world. Gordy's bookstore serves as a microcosm of this community, a place where people come together despite their differences. This theme is particularly resonant in today's world, where the search for connection and understanding is more important than ever.

In terms of writing style, Rae's prose is both lyrical and accessible, with a touch of whimsy that suits the story's magical elements. Her descriptions of Screaming Woods and its inhabitants are vivid and imaginative, bringing the setting to life in a way that feels both fantastical and grounded. The dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the unique voices of the characters and adding depth to their interactions.

Comparatively, It's In His Hiss shares thematic similarities with other works in the fantasy romance genre, such as Sarah J. Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses series or Naomi Novik's Uprooted. Like these novels, Rae's book blends elements of fantasy and romance to explore themes of love, identity, and transformation. However, Rae's focus on the interplay between humor and emotion sets her work apart, creating a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Overall, It's In His Hiss is a charming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of fantasy romance and character-driven stories. Rae has crafted a tale that is both whimsical and heartfelt, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page. Whether you're drawn to the magical setting, the endearing characters, or the exploration of love and identity, this novel offers something for everyone. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic that can be found in the most unexpected places.