House of Frank by Kay Synclaire (Bindery Books | Ezeekat Press)

In House of Frank, Kay Synclaire tells a touching story that blends themes of grief, love, and the idea of finding family in unexpected places. The main character, Saika, is a witch who feels powerless after losing her sister. She goes to Ash Gardens to fulfill her sister's last wish of planting her ashes there. This magical place, always stormy, is run by Frank, a giant creature in a cozy cardigan, who offers Saika a job as one of the caretakers. This setup opens the door to a journey of healing and connection.

As the story progresses, Saika, still struggling with her sister's death from two years ago, takes Frank's offer. She uses a piece of a fallen star to perform magic, even though she hasn’t been able to connect with her powers since her sister passed away. The gardens become a backdrop for her self-discovery, where she meets a colorful group of characters, including twin cherubs who bicker, a ghost who can't speak, a grumpy elf, and a half-witch who can be quite annoying. Each character brings their own stories and challenges, which Saika learns to navigate as she faces her own grief.

Synclaire's writing is vivid and engaging, creating a strong sense of place in Ash Gardens. The atmosphere feels both magical and a bit sad, with beautiful descriptions of the plants and the quirky interactions among the characters. This combination of warmth and whimsy contrasts nicely with the heavier themes of loss and sadness.

One of the book's strong points is how it explores the thin line between love and grief. Synclaire shows how these feelings can exist together, allowing Saika to find joy again while still remembering her sister. The sweet romance between Saika and Oli adds another layer to the story, making it relatable and heartwarming. Each character is well-crafted, with their own unique backgrounds that make them stand out.

Some readers might find the pacing a bit slow since the story focuses more on character development and emotional depth rather than action. However, this slower pace allows for a deeper connection with the themes of grief and healing, making the resolutions feel more satisfying.

Kay Synclaire's debut novel resonates with anyone who has dealt with loss. Her ability to balance sadness and hope creates a reading experience that feels comforting, encouraging readers to think about their own experiences with love and grief. 

House of Frank is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of connection and the healing power of found family, making it a meaningful addition to the fantasy genre.

3,5/5