Book Review: The Crimson Moth | Kristen Ciccarelli

Read the stillwave book review of The Crimson Moth by Kristen Ciccarelli – a slow-burn fantasy where forbidden magic, political rebellion, and fake dating is as enchanting as it is dangerous.

“Some people are determined to live out their own personal tragedies.“

The Crimson Moth by Kristen Ciccarelli is a book that grabs you – but not in the way you’d expect. It doesn’t rush – it lulls you with a quiet, eerie charm before sliding the dagger right between your top two ribs (ouch).

This book is packed with slow-burning fantasy, danger, and desire laced. I loved that it doesn’t “shove” you into a complex, overwhelming world – instead, it coaxes you in with deep, unique lore. The world-building is fantastic, but it never feels exhausting – which is a fine line in the fantasy genre.

Then it hits you with the forbidden magic, fake dating, and secret rebellions.

Speaking of which – I want to talk about Rune. She’s “shallow” (I use this term very loosely), but in a way that makes sense – and she’s meant to be. That’s exactly why she works so well as a developed character.

She’s not “hard as nails.” Not the “rough and tumble,” constantly-swinging-fists archetype that we expect from this genre. Instead, she’s multi-dimensional and complex – she’s flawed and that’s refreshing.

Then there’s Gideon – and he’s just all control and coiled tension (rightfully so, I might add). He’s rough, ragged, cold – but beneath that, he’s a man who’s been manipulated and has only had himself. I have a soft spot for that character trope, I’m afraid (especially when they let their walls down for that one person).

The chemistry between Rune and Gideon is never loud – but it’s always bubbling away. Both characters are layered and real, and their push-and-pull dynamic adds a riveting edge. You’ll be turning those pages quicker and quicker.

There are no overblown confessions. No dramatic declarations of “I’d destroy the world for you” – and that’s exactly what makes it feel so authentic.

Overall, I devoured this book. It’s dark, twisty, and easy to sink into – like you’re a third wheel, eavesdropping on high-stakes intimacy and strategic manipulation.

Dark windows, distant thunder, and maybe someone watching from the shadows.