Before the Devil Breaks You

Before the Devil Breaks You is the third installment in Libba Bray's Diviners series, set in 1920s New York City. The supernatural mystery follows a group of young people with psychic abilities who must confront ghosts and confront dark forces threatening their city. The team faces their most dangerous challenge yet as they investigate a series of deaths connected to a government facility on Ward's Island. Their search leads them through speakeasies, mansions, and shadowy institutions while they attempt to uncover a conspiracy that could change America forever. As the stakes escalate, the Diviners must wrestle with questions about power, prejudice, and what it means to be different in a society that fears the unknown. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the price of progress in an America caught between tradition and transformation.

Readers highlight the atmospheric supernatural elements, complex character development, and incorporation of real historical events. Many note the book's darker tone compared to earlier entries in the series. The detailed research into 1920s New York City receives frequent mention in positive reviews. Fans praise: - Multiple character perspectives deepening the story - Expansion of supernatural mythology - Social commentary on racism, sexism, and class issues - Connection between historical and supernatural elements Common criticisms: - Length (552 pages) with pacing issues in middle sections - Too many subplots and character arcs to follow - Less romance than previous books - Some find the darker themes overwhelming Ratings: Goodreads: 4.34/5 (24,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (670+ ratings) BookishFirst: 4.5/5 (200+ ratings) One reader notes: "The historical details transport you completely, but the supernatural elements never feel forced." Another writes: "Could have been shorter without losing impact."

The Diviners by Libba Bray A tale of supernatural powers, dark forces, and 1920s New York follows a group of gifted teens who must solve occult murders.

This Savage Song by Victoria Schwab Monsters born from violence stalk a divided city while two teens from opposing factions form an alliance to survive.

In the Shadow of Blackbirds by Cat Winters A combination of spiritualism, Spanish flu epidemic, and World War I weaves through a girl's investigation of her first love's death.

The Archived by Victoria Schwab The stories of the dead exist in a library-like space between worlds where Keepers prevent restless souls from escaping.

Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood Three witch sisters in an alternate New England face persecution from a religious order while protecting their magical heritage.

🌟 "Before the Devil Breaks You" is the third installment in Libba Bray's supernatural Diviners series, set against the backdrop of 1920s New York City during the height of spiritualism and speakeasies. 🌟 Author Libba Bray conducted extensive research on 1920s asylum practices and the eugenics movement in America to create authentic historical context for the novel's darker themes. 🌟 The book's paranormal elements are partially inspired by real historical events, including the spiritualist movement and séances that became popular following the massive loss of life during World War I and the 1918 influenza pandemic. 🌟 The novel addresses social justice issues that were prevalent in 1920s America and remain relevant today, including racism, xenophobia, and discrimination against marginalized communities. 🌟 Many locations featured in the book are based on real historical places in New York City, including Ward's Island and its asylum, which operated from 1863 to 1955.