Review of These Mortal Bodies by Elspeth Wilson

If you're drawn to dark academia settings layered with themes of toxic female friendships, obsession, and secrecy, These Mortal Bodies is a must for your summer reading list.

The story follows Ivy Graveson, a socially awkward yet determined protagonist, suspected of being neurodivergent,  who leaves behind her quiet coastal home in Scotland to attend a prestigious all-girls university. She’s eager to reinvent herself and fully immerse in campus life. The atmosphere is rich from the start, and with whispers of witches and secret societies - The Secret History with essence of American Horror Story’s The Coven - grab your witches hats! 

Though some chapters felt a tad slow for me and I occasionally lost my focus, the novel’s eerie tone and character-driven storytelling kept me invested. These Mortal Bodies is an atmospheric exploration of ambition, identity, and the dark edges of female connection.

Reviewed by Danielle

Published on 19/07/25 by Simon and Schuster

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