“Wild and Wicked Things” by Francesca May successfully conveys the lavish and sensual essence of “Great Gatsby” while adding a flare of intoxicating magic — it’s exactly what you want from start to finish.
The historical fantasy novel is set in the wake of World War I, following a ban on magic. Annie Mason does everything she can to avoid this alluring but dangerous power, but it seems that life has other plans.
Leaving behind the familiar comfort of her mother’s home, Annie must venture to Crow Island to settle her late father’s estate. Ignoring whispers that warn of the island’s mystical perils, she finds herself swept up into something sinister. She might just drown in its seductive waters — but is it worth the plunge?
From the start, the tone is enchanting with a touch of melancholy. All the best parts of “The Great Gatsby” are proficiently woven into the framework of the dramatic plot and the aesthetics. “Wild and Wicked Things” goes beyond a retelling. Its originality shines through, incorporating magic, mystery and murder.
The book explores the darker side of desire and what drives a person to do astounding but atrocious things. The drama’s twists and suspense are consuming, making the reader want to devour it whole.
Some plot points are well developed, while others are just lightly touched on. With books like these, one craves a multi-part series that builds upon the background and setting. May’s characters feel familiar, even with what little we get from them. But I ask, “can we go deeper?”
Incorporating LGBTQ+ themes into the main love interest and plot always piques my interest but “Wild and Wicked Things” delivers and then some! Sapphic yearning and a little plot drive toxicity melded perfectly into this slow-burn historical fantasy. The representation found among these characters is beautifully written and refreshing.
The only severe critique would be towards how rushed the ending seems. It would be more beneficial to amplify this storyline’s fascinating subplots. Regardless, the ending felt pleasantly sweet with a delectable tart aftertaste of lingering possibilities — a well-earned treat after all that turmoil.
As a debut novel, I am excited for what May has in store for us next.
McKenzie Johnson, an employee of the Hopkinsville-Christian County Public Library, has a Bachelor of Arts from Western Kentucky University, where they majored in Art History and Cultural Resource Management Anthropology and minored in Folklore. Her genres of interest include, but are not limited to, Horror, Sexuality, History, Gender Studies and Art.
