6 days ago November 26, 2025sarahylockwood

An Education in Malice by S.T. Gibson

Rate: 3.5

Medium: Audiobook

Overview (No Spoilers):

Education in Malice is a dark, tense read that held an unexpected twist that caught me by utter surprise. I fully acknowledge that this shock would not have had the same impact had I read the blurb ahead of time. As most of you already know, this is not just a story set in a women’s college in the late 1960s, but instead has a fantasy flavoring that takes this story in quite unexpected directions 

I was hooked by this story long before any fantasy elements showed up. There are strange teacher/student dynamics, along with complicated peer relationships that set a stage that is impossible to pull yourself away from. The tension is palpable. And just when the intrigue is hitting its max, Gibson has a twist in store that shocks and irreversibly alters the entire context of this story. 

Ok. I’ll add a spoiler here as it is in the blurb. How did I not realize An Education in Malice is a vampire story? A delightful twist! This is the kind of surprise that I love stumbling upon when not having any preconceived notions about the story. Also, I found out that this story was based on a classic story. I’m wondering now at what connections I missed having never read the inspiration.

The majority of An Education in Malice is so well written. The characters have minimal backstory and depth, though Gibson has us invested in their outcomes and happiness. Prior to the vampire twist, the story is a mix of toxic romantic and academic relationships. After the big reveal, there is an immediate air of danger to every interaction that only intensifies as the secrets and the stakes grow more dire. In the last quarter of the book, as everything is coming to ahead, time and events become increasingly glossed over. Gibson loses control of the pacing and the momentum just as Lauren and Camilla’s situation is tittering dangerously at the precipice.

Character wise, I so enjoyed Lauren and Carmilla, though I would have loved more depth to both. De Lefontaine and her constantly shifting allegiances make her completely untrustworthy and hard to connect to. There is definitely a shine of power that emanates from this professor early in this story that grew tarnished as the story progresses. As for the monster that emerges, we learn very little and she becomes more of a one dimensional checked a box instead of a villain, rich in history. I find myself with so many lingering questions about her backstory and motivations.

Overall, An Education in Malice is an entertainingly dark read that takes an unexpected detour into fantasy with a blurred, abrupt ending. 

Additional Insight (Spoilers Abound):

  • What choice will Laura make?
  • Who was the thrall who made the crypt? Did anyone else know about the crypt?
  • What adventures will Carmilla and Laura find?
  • How did Saint Perpetua’s explain the murders?
  • When will Carmilla meet back up with De Lafontaine?
  • What is Isis’ backstory? How old is she?

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