Unhallowed Halls by Lili Wilkinson Review (Gifted/AD)

Hello Readers,
 
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an eBook copy of Unhallowed Halls by Lili Wilkinson in exchange for an honest review. The copy I received didn’t include a cover, so I’m using an image found through Google (Fair use for review purposes). Since today is its official publication day, this review will be spoiler-free.
 
Happy Publication Day
 
Title: Unhallowed Halls
Author: Lili Wilkinson
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Gothic. Mystery
Pages: 456
Cover Image:

Synopsis: A teen girl travels to an exclusive boarding school located deep within the Scottish moorlands after a deadly incident at her old school, but the wood-paneled halls of Agathion are built over centuries of secrets—including an ancient society which may have ties to demonic magic—in this dark academia fantasy perfect for fans of Curious Tides.

 Page Whittaker has always been an outcast. And after the deadly incident that destroyed her single friendship at her old school, she needs a fresh start. Which is why when she receives a scholarship offer from Agathion College, an elite boarding school folded deep within the moors of Scotland, she doesn’t even consider turning it down.

Agathion is everything Page has ever a safe haven full of dusty books, steaming cups of tea and rigorous intellectual debate. And for the first time in her life, Page has even managed to become part of a close group of friends. Cyrus, Ren, Gideon, Lacey and Oak help her feel at home in Agathion's halls--the only problem is, they're all keeping secrets from her. 

Page doesn't know it yet, but her perfect new school has dark roots--roots that stretch back to its crooked foundation, and an ancient clandestine society with rumored ties to demonic magic. Soon, Page will be forced to learn that not everyone at Agathion is who they say they are. Least of all, her friends.
Agathion claims to teach its students history…but some histories should stay buried.
 
Miniature Review
 
Unhallowed Halls is everything you want in a dark academia story mysterious, eerie, and packed with supernatural suspense. From the very first page, I was hooked by all the twists and turns, and the atmosphere was so immersive that I felt like I was right there with the characters. If you love taking your time to really settle into a world and uncover its rules alongside the protagonist, this book will definitely pull you in.
 
The worldbuilding is rich and unique, blending Greek philosophy with Scottish mythology in a way that feels both familiar and fresh. I was especially drawn to the mix of goddesses and demons. The pacing is great too as things build up nicely and the mystery of the school and its students will keep you guessing, eager for answers. The side characters, with their found-family bond, were such a highlight for me. I loved following Page’s journey as she uncovered why she was even admitted to the academy in the first place.
 
The book really nails that gothic dark academia vibe, with misty moors, ancient stone circles, quirky rituals, and secrets hiding around every corner. It’s a beautiful mix of magic, folklore, and mystery, making for an unforgettable experience.

Comments

Post a Comment