Blackwood masterfully interweaves Ethiopian culture and folklore into the narrative, highlighting the power of belief in shaping destiny. Andromeda's work as a debtera is deeply rooted in tradition and rituals passed down through generations. Her struggle to reconcile her training with the increasingly dangerous and unexplained events at the manor forms a compelling exploration of faith, superstition, and the unknown.

A slow-burn romance ignites between Andromeda and the manor’s enigmatic owner, Magnus Rorschach. Their connection is complicated by societal expectations, the looming threat of the curse, and the secrets they both harbor. Blackwood expertly crafts a palpable tension between the two, leaving the reader enthralled and eager to discover if their burgeoning love can survive the darkness that surrounds them.

Beyond the supernatural entities, both Andromeda and Magnus grapple with personal demons. Andromeda battles against prejudice and the shadow of her mentor’s disapproval, while Magnus is haunted by a tragic past and the ever-present curse on his family. Their journey becomes a shared fight for survival, forcing them to confront not only the external forces arrayed against them but also the darkness within themselves.