You know those books that are just so much fun? That thrill you and make your heart twinge a bit? That’s how it felt to read Even Though I Knew the End. We’ve got a queer detective story with angels and demons. What more could you want? Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts.
Summary
A magical detective dives into the affairs of Chicago’s divine monsters to secure a future with the love of her life. This sapphic period piece will dazzle anyone looking for mystery, intrigue, romance, magic, or all of the above.
An exiled augur who sold her soul to save her brother’s life is offered one last job before serving an eternity in hell. When she turns it down, her client sweetens the pot by offering up the one payment she can’t resist―the chance to have a future where she grows old with the woman she loves.
To succeed, she is given three days to track down the White City Vampire, Chicago’s most notorious serial killer. If she fails, only hell and heartbreak await.
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
I have deeply enjoyed Polk’s worlds like in Witchmark, so I was so excited for this latest novella. And this has to be my favorite! First of all, I have a sweet spot for detective stories. Maybe it’s just because I watched these investigation shows growing up and so now every time I see a detective or something similar, I’m instantly captivated. So when you combine that elements like queer characters and demons, I could not start this one fast enough. And this novella is fast pace, full of action, and a fabulous world.
Not to mention that she has to maybe team up with her brother who hates her for some reason? There were so many layers of mystery and intrigue on basically every level which makes Even Though I Knew the End breeze by. I read this in one sitting! I loved how it navigates what we will do with hope or faith, even when we knew the end. (I can’t get over the meaning of the title and how much I love it). At the same time there are pieces of historical fiction – and the heartbreaking homophobia – as Polk enlarges everything to a larger scale.
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So if you love detectives, deals with demons, sapphic historical fantasy, or a novella which explores sacrifice – you have to read Even Though I Knew the End. It’s one of those easy recommendations I can make for anyone who wants a quick engaging read. Find Even Though I Knew the End on Goodreads, Amazon, Indiebound, Bookshop.org & The Book Depository.