The 36k word count flew by in an instant. I was hooked instantly by the weird (kinky) premise, and then the shocking reveal sealed the deal. The progression afterwards (despite seeing it from a mile away) stirred up so many emotions in me. Absolutely fantastic read, especially for a first showing!
Art was simply gorgeous. Not sure what the creator was talking about with the "sketches" mentioned on the itch page, it was stunning visual after stunning visual. It has an INSANE number of CGs, even multiple for the dream sequences. Still, she was economical with the usage of the laying around and stairs CGs. (That's a good thing!) I particular love the character designs, with how pettable Eddie was (OMG THE BEDROOM CG WITH THE HEAD POKING OUT!!!!!) and Sydney's contrasting, formidable figure. I instantly grasped their vibes and they matched perfectly with the rest. Only minor gripe would be how dark some of the CGs were. I really had to struggle to make out the details. (And I want all the yummy details!!)
The writing was pleasant to read and follow. A few mistakes here and there, but for the most part it was quite polished. I think the fact that I didn't really notice the prose, just the story and all the emotions, means it did its job. I do think the dream sequences were very well written. They were always interesting, and weren't too blatantly tied to the larger plot, nor totally irrelevant. Having three (or four?) of them was a choice, tho I suppose it helped to sell the passage of time. That being said, I do feel like there was a bit of the classic too much telling instead of showing. Particularly with the beginning, when Eddie would explain how every little action would make her feel. Like after first few "humiliating" acts, we the readers get the idea. There was also the description of the bedroom, which didn't offer much more than what the CG already depicted. Then the continual denial as Eddie slowly sinks into her new relationship. Maybe it was intentional, but this was what gave away the rest of the plot. (To me at least)
Music was also well done. Sound effects were used perfectly throughout and did not feel out of place. The bg music also served to heighten the emotions (sometimes suspiciously in sync with my reading).
Plot-wise, there was a lot going on. I don't rly like speculating/theorizing, so I'm just gonna lay down what I felt. Kinky and concerning. (It may or may not have awoken things in me...) Shocking then thrilling. Relieving, confusing. Romance??!! I could really feel the chemistry and their deep, desperate feelings for one another. I mean, who even cares about the murders when there's a hot, sugar mommy right in front of you 😩. Jokes aside, the characters were naturally developed throughout the story, and not once did it feel expository.
Once again, really good read. Alright, I'm gonna crawl back inside my cage now and wait for my partner to come home.