Review: Becoming the Dark Prince | Kerri Maniscalco

This review is spoiler free.

“I want to spend hours and years of my life figuring out ways of making you happy. I want you to feel the same way about me. Not because I’ve demanded it of you, but because every piece of you longs for me. I want our passion to ignite the world around us, making even the stars jealous.”

Series: Stalking Jack the Ripper
Published: 2019, by Jimmy Patterson.
Pages: 67
Format: Kindle Edition
Genre: Historical, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Young Adult
Contains: Violence, Anger, Blood/Gore, Injury

‘Becoming the Dark Prince’ is a short story from the point of view of Audrey Rose Wadsworth’s partner-in- crime, Thomas Cresswell. Taking place during and after the pair’s horrifying Atlantic voyage in Escaping From Houdini, ‘Becoming the Dark Prince’ includes an intensely personal look into his plea for Audrey Rose’s hand in marriage.

It’s no secret to this blog that Thomas Cresswell is one of my favourite fictional characters of all-time, so knowing that there was a novella written from his point of view just made my heart sing. I had to get it, and I was savouring it for the moment I finished the series before delving into any bonus content. Needless to say, it was well worth the wait.

Thomas Cresswell, Audrey Rose’s other half was a joy to read from the point of view of. He’s kindhearted, selfless, and respectful, making every single moment in his world worth it. Getting to see things from his perspective added a little extra clarity to the situations at hand, and witnessing the struggles within himself made you feel for the character further. His love for Audrey knows no bounds, and that’s simply beautiful to see. The best part of their relationship is how progressive it is, treating each other as equals and giving her freedom of choice when it comes to their betrothal.

The writing itself is classic Kerri Maniscalco, with gorgeous lengthy descriptions and enchanting dialogue. Although, many of the events that took place were already known about, having read Escaping From Houdini, the scenes in which were brand new to readers were glorious.

Overall, I deeply loved this novella. Thomas Cresswell has a special place in my heart and witnessing the events of Escaping from Houdini in his perspective was wonderful to read about. There’s no doubt in my mind that I’ll be returning to this story again and again.