Gothikana

“‘I’d say keep your wits ‘bout you.’ The driver concentrated as the incline got steeper. ‘Dunno if the place’s haunted but somethin’s not right with it.’”

The driver’s characterization of Verenmore creates foreshadowing, while also introducing the theme of The Appearance Versus Reality of Evil. In hearing that the castle may be “haunted” and that “somethin’s not right with it,” Corvina is immediately put on her guard that the place may be a dangerous or even supernatural one. The novel’s setting is also a reflection of the gothic literary tradition, which often features remote and mysterious settings to create an atmosphere of mystery and foreboding.

“Corvina wanted that. She wanted to belong, to be loved, to be absolutely adored, no matter what happened, despite her past.”

This passage introduces the theme of The Fear of “Madness,” as Corvina worries that her genetic predisposition toward mental illness renders her unlovable. Corvina’s longing “to belong” also speaks to the isolation of her upbringing, which has left her both socially inexperienced and emotionally vulnerable as she enters the university. A key part of her character arc will be learning that her value as a person does not depend on her mental health status.

“She must have looked a ghostly sight with her white gown and long raven hair and the candlestick in her hand.”

While the novel presents the lack of cell and internet service as a plausible reason for why