The Haunting of Rosehill

by Samantha Blok

Within the shadowed halls of Rosehill Manor, Evelyn Ward longs to escape the stifling confines of Regency society. Yet when an ancient garden - where a single rose blooms in defiance of the season - beckons her, she is drawn irresistibly into a world of dark superstition and whispered half-truths. Determined to illuminate the shadows of fear, Evelyn seeks to unravel the mystery of this fragile blossom, said to hold the key to a curse that has haunted the Sinclairs for centuries, tightening its grip with each passing year.

The manor itself seems to breathe with life, its walls murmuring with secrets and strange scratching sounds that disturb the night. The servants speak in hushed tones of ghosts and restless spirits, fearful of the darkness that clings to every corner. And in its midst stands Henry Sinclair, the dark, brooding heir, burdened by the weight of his family’s cursed legacy, his every step haunted by the sins of those before him.

Yet it is the Baron Alistair Sinclair, withering under the curse, who unveils hints of the horrors long buried within the estate’s past. As Evelyn delves deeper into the mysteries that ensnare Rosehill, she finds herself drawn ever closer to Henry - and to the dreadful truth that binds their fates. Every choice she makes brings her nearer to a salvation as fragile as the cursed rose - or to a doom from which there is no escape.

Will she dare to confront the sinister forces that hold the Sinclairs in their grasp, or will the ancient curse claim her as it has so many before?

About the Author:

Samantha Blok is the author of The Haunting of Rosehill, a debut novel that transports readers into a world of gothic romance and chilling intrigue. With a passion for crafting intricate characters and compelling narratives, she weaves stories that linger long after the final page.

Genre: Gothic Romance, Historical Fiction, Horror, Regency Romance

Target Audience: Readers of gothic fiction, historical romance, Regency romance, horror and supernatural thrillers.

Experience the spellbinding romance and haunting mystery of The Haunting of Rosehill - now available for pre-order!

286 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 30, 2024

About the author

Samantha Blok lives in sunny Sydney, Australia, and is a hopeless creative at heart. She studied Fine Arts before going on to complete a Bachelor of Arts in Education and English Literature, followed by a Master of Teaching. She worked as a teacher for several years, then somehow found herself in educational public policy.

By day, she writes about Very Serious Things. By night, she writes historical romance — usually of the Regency or Gothic variety — where heroines are sharp, heroes are brooding, and things tend to get delightfully improper.

Follow on Instagram & Tiktok
@samanthablok_author

Reviews

[Philippa Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... Just wow!

This book is amazing for a debut novel. Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reviewer! Samantha's writing is haunting and grips you from the prologue.

There are a number of dark twists that I really didn'tsee coming in this story that I really loved. The characters and their development was well written, Evelyn is such a strong female lead character that is great to read especially in a regency story.

It was a perfect read around Halloween for someone who loves horror but also the classics. I would definitely say that this book is in the same league as The Woman in Black and Northanger Abby!

I can't wait to read her next book!

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book and just wow! I loved the story and the writing style was captivating! Evelyn was such a strong character that I just adored her, she was witty and passionate and always said it how she thought! And Henry, although very broody, was sweet and protective and turned out to be wonderful. How I wish all men spoke like him 😂 For a debut novel this book is fantastic, I flew through it as it was an easy read but such a brilliantly written story. ❤️

[Tori Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, thank you Blok for granting me an opportunity to read your debut novel as an ARC.

Alright, is this my usual type of read? Nope! Did I enjoy the themes and mystery? Yes! The writing style was prose-heavy and very detailed in a way that for me personally was too heavy. However, the concept and tale were really good. Allusions to Beauty and the Beast as well as Cinderella.

Gothic, haunting, and grey- the story cast shadows from the attic, chasing the reader through darkened halls of a life without love.

The moral of the story is one I think we all need to remember about love and happiness.

I hope this is only the start of an amazing future for Bolk.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly I wanted to thank the author for sending me an e-book arc of their debut novel! I was so excited to receive a copy! The Haunting of Rosehill is a must read if you love historical romances, gothic settings, a sprinkle of horror, and some spice. Evelyn and her family travel to Rosehill Manor to stay after being invited by Alistair Sinclair aka the baron and upon their long visit Evelyn finds out about a curse that has plagued the family for generations. Henry is deeply bound by the dark curse that lingers through the manor. And Evelyn is not sure whether to believe the madness or not. I was compelled with the vivid descriptions of Rosehill manor, the author described everything so well I felt as if I could picture it. Every character was so well described as well, each of their personalities shone through. The love that Evelyn and Henry shared was swoon worthy, it made my heart melt into a million pieces. Everything was tied up at the end and I love that nothing was left unanswered. An amazing debut novel and I highly recommend reading it! Especially if you loved Bridgerton or Downton Abbey — but add some gothic and dark twists. 5 stars.

[Ally | book_dragon89 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This debut is so beautiful it hurts! Samantha’s writing is so beautiful, it painted the scene so vividly I felt like I was in the book. This is perfect for lovers of regency romance and haunting gothic vibes.

I love Evelyn, she’s not your typical high society woman, she has no desire to marry like society expects, she’s smart and bold. Henry is downright dreamy, he completely swept me off my feet. Their relationship is a slow burn and watching it bloom was so beautiful. The angst, the longing, the steamy romance….it was all perfect.

I can’t wait to read everything else Samantha Blok writes!!

[kindlecraze · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, this is my first supernatural book, and I’ve always loved stories about haunted places and ghosts! This book gives off major Victorian haunting vibes with plenty of suspense, making you feel like you’re right in the middle of the story. The author wrote it so beautifully that each word keeps you hooked, and you just can’t stop reading! I absolutely love it! The haunting atmosphere and the romance will keep you irresistibly obsessed. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this hauntingly beautiful book!❤️❤️❤️❤️

[Jasmine Dunn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hauntingly beautiful

[Danni Drummond · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Haunting of Rosehill
By Samantha Blok

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶

🖤 Gothic Romance with a sprinkling of Horror
🌹 Family Curse
🖤 Haunted Estate
🌹 Slow Burn
🖤 Strong FMC
🌹 Mysterious MMC

I had the absolute pleasure of being an ARC reader for this mesmerising Gothic slow burn through the haunted halls of Rosehill Manor.

With the introduction of the strong willed, whitty FMC Evelyn and her family being invited to Rosehill By the Baron, she soon finds all is not as it seems with the Sinclairs who reside there, along with the woman in white who haunts the halls and grounds of the Manor.

This delicious story entwines the characters and their family history so well you feel so compelled you need to keep reading to find the answers you seek especially with all the twists and turns.

For her debut novel Samantha has done a terrific job with this book!
I look forward to the next 😍

The Haunting of Rosehill releases on November 30th 🖤🌹

[Kristi Arends · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨️ARC Review✨️

The Haunting of Rosehill

Samantha Blok absolutely blew me away with her beautiful writing. She is very descriptive in her writing, and that makes for a more engaging read. I felt like I was there watching these characters interact instead of simply reading about them.
I was so enraptured by the story that I literally sighed every time I had to put my kindle down to tend to reality.
I giggled a couple of times and even shed a couple of tears.

Evelyn and Henry are one of my new favorite book couples, and their love story is truly one for the ages.
A beautiful story of love, loss, tragedy, and forgiveness.

I absolutely love The Haunting of Rosehill, and I am anxiously awaiting more writings from Samantha Blok.

I highly, highly recommend The Haunting of Rosehill to any person who loves regency romance tales and gothic-horror romance novels.

✨️Releasing November 30, 2024✨️

Thank you to Samantha Blok for allowing me to read an advanced copy of The Haunting of Rosehill for an honest review.

[Samm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got to ARC read and this book is amazing. It was the perfect spooky season read. There were a few dark twists. I couldn't put this down once I started reading. If you love historical romance in a gothic setting you need to read this.

[Gwynneth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a book that you can tell it was a pure passion project and the author loves what they do. From the beautiful descriptions to the well researched details to the heart breaking romance it all just made it so hard to put down.

Not to mention twists I never saw coming!

Such a fresh take on a regency romance that I think we all need. Felt sad finishing as it means their story is over :(.

Can not wait to see what is next from this author.

[Amanda Gold · Rating 5 out of 5]

く
The Haunting of Rosehill
5/5 stars
'Just one more chapter' is what I whispered to myself late at night reading this book.
What to expect - Gothic romance with a family curse, ghosts, suspense and a dash of spice set in the regency time period.
I LOVED this book. So beautifully written. In-depth and thought compelling. Samantha created a world that I could see in my mind as I read it.
I smiled and teared up whilst reading this book. Evelyn the MFC is strong, independent for that time, kind and intelligent. Henry the MMC is filled with angst and the weight of a family curse. Their family and servants are a huge part of their story, I cannot say anymore or I will give away some of the plot. I truly felt for them all.
If you like suspense, ghosts and romance, this book is for you. I couldn't put it down.

[Mollie Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic debut novel for Samantha Blok. Haunting of Rosehill is Bridgeton meets Supernatural. If you loved Crimson Peak you will love this read.
The author has created a very likeable main character in Evelyn, I found myself cheering her on and invested in her growing relationship with Henry. Henry remained a mystery throughout much of the book, in a way that the reader could feel exactly what Evelyn was feeling as she tried to unravel his mysteries. I enjoyed the multiple POVs but found myself drawn to Evelyn and Henry’s POV throughout the novel. Samantha Blok has created a very strong willed woman, especially for that time, and effortlessly positioned the reader as her ally.
The dialogue flowed and was very easy to consume. The writing was meticulously researched and portrayed that era perfectly. I felt transported each time I pick up the book. The scene setting was incredibly detailed, which I felt fit this genre well.
The plot flowed well, the reader is introduced to mystery early on, questions arising each chapter to keep the reader hooked.
I am excited for Samantha Blok’s journey as a published author.

[Emily Hidalgo · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I just want to say a huge thank you to Samantha Blok for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced copy of her debut novel, The Haunting of Rosehill. I’m honestly still in awe that this is her first book—her writing is so immersive and captivating. It’s hard to believe it’s her debut.

From the very first page, Blok’s prose swept me into a world of eerie beauty, where the atmosphere and setting were almost as alive as the characters themselves. The descriptions were detailed, effortlessly building an ominous mood that kept me on edge. The manor, Rosehill, felt like a character in its own right—its dark corners, creaking floors, and mysterious secrets all contributing to the story’s energy.

I loved the bond between Henry and Evelyn. Their relationship felt tender and genuine, especially as Henry’s fierce protectiveness toward Evelyn unfolded.

One of my favorite quotes from the book really sums up its dreamlike, unsettling quality:
“She lay there as the rain poured down upon her, time slipping away like a dream. The world felt distant and surreal, as though she were suspended between two realms — one of reality and one of nightmares.”

Overall, The Haunting of Rosehill is a stellar debut that combines gothic atmosphere, emotional depth, and a captivating mystery. I can’t wait to see what Samantha Blok writes next!

[Summer Seeds · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story starts when Evelyn Ward and her family are invited by Baron Alistair Sinclair to stay at his estate, Rosehill. The manor is one shrouded in mystery, believed to be haunted by the ghosts of the past. The servants whisper of restless spirits that roam the halls - something dangerous within the shadows.

In the midst of it all is the handsome and brooding Henry Sinclair. Evelyn finds herself increasingly drawn to the Rosehill heir as she becomes more entangled in the dark secrets of the manor. Soon the time comes that Evelyn must unravel the mystery and break the curse that has plagued the Sinclair men for generations or be taken by it as so many have been before her.

The Haunting of Rosehill is a slow-burn gothic romance set in the regency period. Beautifully written and atmospheric, Samantha Blok has created a tale of love and tragedy with twists and turns around every corner.

The writing is vivid and haunting, breathing life into the pages and painting a gorgeous portrait within the reader’s mind. Evelyn is a strong willed heroine. I love a main character with brains and wit. Henry is dark and broody and sometimes aggravating, but also caring. Their romance, when they finally come together, is very sweet, and you can’t help but root for them.

More of a supernatural thriller than a true horror novel, I enjoyed the book. I’ve always been a sucker for gothic literature and a good ghost story. It’s a perfect read for a dreary autumn night. Nothing too scary, but certain parts may give you a little chill.

Thank you to the author for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Meg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC from the author, Samantha Blok. This is Samantha’s debut novel and I was so impressed! This genre isn’t usually what I go for, but I was super intrigued by the story. This held my attention the whole time and although it was a bit repetitive at times, the descriptive writing really helped paint a picture in my mind. I felt connected to the characters and loved how independent and strong Evelyn was. I definitely felt some Beauty and the Beast (but darker, lol) vibes at times throughout this book. I really loved how the ending wrapped everything up and answered all of my questions. Thank you so much to Samantha for having me as part of the ARC reader team! I can’t wait to see what you come up with next. This book will be available on Kindle Nov. 30th and the paperback can be ordered in Dec 2024!

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/5 ⭐️

Atmospheric. This was an interesting gothic mystery with sprinkles of romance that reminded me a bit of Starling House and a darker Beauty and the Beast. I enjoyed the plot, world building, and the characters. The writing was extremely descriptive; almost a bit too descriptive in certain parts. There were instances where we’d read the same scene from two perspectives, which didn’t feel necessary, but that didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. I wish it was just a little spookier than what it was, but that’s just a personal preference. Overall, a solid debut!

This will be available on 11/30!

Thank you so much, Samantha Blok, for sending me the e-ARC and congratulations on the debut of your first novel!

[Summer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a nice, relaxing read. The main characters were likable and relatable. This was a slow-burn romance that also felt a bit like forbidden love. I found myself sincerely wishing things would hurry along and they would just be together already. The ending made it all worth it, though.
Altogether, I would definitely recommend this book. And I’m really looking forward to more from this author.

[Loren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Atmospheric and character-driven. A solid debut novel from Samantha Blok. I look forward to seeing how she grows.

[Sierra Chao · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so beautifully written and captivating. I enjoyed every moment of reading The Haunting of Rosehill. 🤌🏼🤎

[Karina · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Haunting of Rosehill is a slow-burn Gothic tale with a rich atmospheric setting, but don’t go in expecting a full-on horror fest. While it certainly has its eerie moments, the focus here is more on mood and setting than outright scares.

The Manor almost feels like a character in its own right, its creaking floors, cold halls, and long history haunting every page. The location is described in such detail that you can practically feel the chill in the air, and the oppressive atmosphere of the manor lingers with you long after you’ve put the book down.

The writing is extremely descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the gothic atmosphere, and the lingering echoes of the past. I loved how the author unravelled the layers of history within the house, but I did find myself wishing for more of a "horror" punch. The eerie moments are there, but they don’t quite deliver the spine-tingling thrills I was hoping for.

The ending tied everything up nicely, answering questions and leaving me with a sense of closure.

If you’re into atmospheric, character-driven stories where the setting is as much a part of the plot as the people inhabiting it, this one will definitely haunt you—just don’t expect a blood-curdling thrill.

Overall: 3.5 stars. Gorgeous writing, but a little light on the horror.

[Heather Terry · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Haunting of Rosehill by Samantha Blok is a dark, slow-burning historical romance that goes beyond a simple story of heartbreak. It digs into obsession, heart break, and the sharp divide between men and women—especially in a world-built class division. Set in the decaying beauty of Rosehill Manor, the story pulls you into a gothic world where the past refuses to stay buried, and the damage done generations ago still has teeth.

The story kicks off with a prologue set 600 years before the present. We meet Seraphina, an herbalist with a reputation as a witch, who falls for Edmond Sinclair, Lord of Rosehill. But he doesn’t fully choose her, and what follows is betrayal, sorrow, and a curse that stains generations of Sinclairs. It’s a chilling way to open, and that bitterness sets the tone for everything that follows.

In the present-day storyline, we meet Evelyn Ward, a young woman raised by her academic father and inspired by trailblazing female scientists. When she and her family arrive at Rosehill Manor, it doesn’t take long for her to sense that something isn’t right. The house hums with an eerie energy—soft whispers behind closed doors, a black cat that always seems to be watching, and unsettling visions she can’t explain. Henry, the Baron’s hard-to-read “grandson,” clearly knows more than he’s letting on. But instead of being upfront, he offers only vague comments and cryptic clues. Honestly, it gets frustrating. The mystery drags a bit too long, and when the Baron finally shares the real reason they’re at Rosehill, I couldn’t help but feel a little underwhelmed. It just didn’t hit as hard as it should have.

Evelyn, though, is the heart of this. She’s bright, thoughtful, and even when she’s unsure, she keeps pushing forward. Her bond with her brother Charles adds warmth, and their father—though well-meaning—feels a little slow to catch on. The house itself feels like a character. Not just a setting, but something alive. Watching. Waiting. Henry however is weighed down by guilt and family obligation, and while he clearly feels something for Evelyn, Rosehill’s shadowy past keeps getting in the way. I don’t feel the connection like I wish I did. I feel the connection to the property, and gardens more than to Henry himself.

Overall, The Haunting of Rosehill is a slow building read. The tension simmers, and the emotional undercurrents run deep. The author does a great job of drawing you into the eerie charm of the manor. Evelyn’s creeping sense of dread clashing with her rational mind was one of my favorite parts—it made her journey feel both believable and worthwhile.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) through Reedsy Discovery

[Jasmine Barnes · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌙🥀 ARC REVIEW 🥀🌙

The Haunting of Rosehill by Samantha Blok

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to Samantha Blok for allowing me the pleasure of reviewing an advanced readers' copy of The Haunting of Rosehill. The book is out as of today, too! 📜

If you're looking for a Gothic Horror Romance set in 1815, this book is for you! This is Samantha Blok's debut novel, but she does not write like it. Her writing is poetic and flows the way an experienced author would. Even though this is a romance, I love that Samantha writes about the societal pressures and expectations that were put onto women in the Regency Era. The FMC Evelyn is independent, intelligent, and strong-willed. The story does feel eerie, but the horror didn't make me feel scared. The romance is bitter-sweet throughout the novel. I never knew who/what to believe throughout the story or what was going to happen. There were plenty of twists and turns. I'd highly recommend adding this book to your TBR!

Quotes:

'Your longing is a beast that consumes all you touch. It is but a pale shadown - a weak imitation - of what love should be'

'Betrayal carries heavy consequences, for it weaves curses that will cling to your very soul'

'She seemed like a rare bloom, thriving in a world that didn't quite understand her'
'Allure is a fickle thing, my lord. I would argue that true substance lies not in mystery but in sincerity. A man may be charming, yet if he can not be trusted to speak plainly, what value does he possess? It is all too easy to cloak oneself in the guise of mystery while saying little of substance. One must wonder whether it is a gentleman's wit or his cowardice that keeps him shrouded

'It's unfair, is it not? That a woman's role is so often confined to being a wife, and that her life can often end in service of that purpose. No one speaks of the cost. The sacrifice.'

'Love is a powerful force; it can illuminate even the darkest of nights. Yet, fear possesses a might even greater. It can twist love into shadows, leading those we cherish into depths we dread.'

[Allthebooksallthetea · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review!

What a beautifully written story!

Evelyn comes to Rosehill Manor with her family and finds herself unraveling the mystery of a curse that has been plaguing the Sinclair family for centuries. Henry is the wonderfully, dark and brooding heir of Rosehill Manor who is haunted by his families curse like those before him.

I loved these two together, I thought it was a beautifully written gothic tale of love and tragedy and all of the ways it can shape someone. The scene was set perfectly, from the characters who lived in the manor dealing with the curse to the manor itself.

It was haunting in the best way, as I thought it had just enough supernatural, dark elements to make it really fun to read and get your pulse going.

If you’re looking for a gothic romance novel paired with a haunting mystery then I would definitely recommend this one.

Thank you @samanthablok.author for giving me an opportunity to read this book as an ARC and congratulations on a beautifully written debut novel!

Favorite Quote: “Every moment without you is a lifetime lost in shadow. Not even the stars could pull me from your side, for you are the only light I need.”

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️

[Cierra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. I’d like to start off by saying I am not your typical Romance reader. If I’m being honest it is usually the last genre of book I ever pick up to read. That doesn’t mean that I don’t read them, I just usually only read them because my group of friends are reading them and I want to feel included.

I stumbled on this book in a kindle group I’m in where Samantha had posted that her book just released to KU. From the start I loved the title and I loved the cover so I asked what it was about. She said it was a gothic romance. I figured what the heck, why not give it a go and I’m glad that I did because I was not disappointed.

I loved the writing and imagery she used. Through everything I was able to paint a beautiful picture in my head of what was going on. The main genres I read are horror, thrillers, and fantasy so I absolutely loved that this book was sprinkled with eerie moments. It wasn’t terrifying but it was just enough to give me some flutters to feel thrilled and excited while reading.

Overall for a debut novel I thought this was quite stunning and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

Oh, and I can’t forget to add that some of the quotes in this novel slapped.

“Do you not see? Bitterness binds the soul tighter than any chain.”

[spicyreadsandcozyblankets · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC review

First of all, I’m grateful to Samatha Blok for lending me an ARC for an honest review. 🩷

The haunting of Rosehill is a beautifully narrated book. It felt like watching a movie where I was the protagonist, walking through the mansion, hearing those weird noises at night and admiring the roses in the garden.

The story felt familiar but also unique at the same time, if that makes sense. This is a story with curses, hauntings, family secrets and a strong FMC.

I loved Evelyn. She is strong, resilient, kind and logical. However, I was not impressed by the romance between the lead characters. It felt a bit instantaneous and I personally am not a fan of instant attraction. It fet like these two characters didn’t have enough interactions to feel so deeply for the other.

There are lighter horror elements in the book and it makes you wanna eagerly know what is gonna happen in the next chapter.

Overall, this was a good read.

If you love family curses, secrets, hauntings with some paranormal entities, please do give this a read. 💕💕

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Atmospheric, gothic, and utterly enchanting. 🌹 Rosehill Manor is the kind of setting that wraps around you like a shadow—haunted halls, whispers in the dark, and a single cursed rose blooming out of season. From the first page, I was completely immersed.

Evelyn is such a compelling heroine, caught between Regency society’s restraints and the chilling mysteries of the Sinclairs’ legacy. Her curiosity, courage, and heart made me root for her every step of the way. And Henry? The perfect brooding heir, heavy with a curse that feels as inevitable as it is tragic. Their growing bond against such a dark backdrop gave me all the gothic-romance chills I crave.

The writing is lush, the suspense builds beautifully, and the curse itself felt like a character—always lingering, always waiting. This story is both eerie and romantic, full of secrets, roses, and a creeping sense of doom I couldn’t look away from.

so yes please to EVERYTHING you write

[KK Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book - I got all the gloomy spooky vibes from the setting and the ghost story, while also feeling the warm fuzzies for Evelyn and Henry.
Evelyn is not your average regency girl, with her interest and knowledge of botany, her desire to be a scientist. She is clever but also caring, acting as a mother to her younger brother.
Henry is dark and brooding and a bit gloomy, trapped by the Sinclair curse, but of course he has a soft spot for Evelyn.
I loved seeing the growth of their relationship and how they yearn for each other, overcome obstacles in their blossoming relationship.
The curse and the ghost story were an interesting addition, I could really picture this big gloomy manor and the ghosts that might walk there.
The story is very well written and the style fit the era of the story but was still easy to read. The story flowed nicely and all fit together logically.
I really enjoyed this and will definitely read more from Samantha Blok!

[Angé · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok so firstly I want to say that Samantha Blok is a stunning writer. Impeccable prose. And for a debut, wow! Secondly this read was very atmospheric and eerie and you definitely felt the house vibrate with something sinister as moonlight creates shadows and all that. It’s a slow burn book that was a little too slow for me. I loved the writing but I wished something happened sooner because it felt a bit repetitive reading from Evelyn’s POV then Henry’s but they both described the same scene where nothing really happened. I was at 43% still wondering when the action was gonna start. I didn’t love Evelyn as a lead tbh, she was too perfectly trying to be the strong fierce woman but she just nibbled her pastry like a little mouse and somehow I didn’t like that for her. But Seraphina, she was a great character!

[Anni Taumata · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most hauntingly beautiful things I've ever read.

The whole storyline is shrouded in mystery and filled with twists. I was wanting more by the time I finished it.

The characters were incredible. I LOVED Evelyn - our little feminist icon! Not afraid to stick up for herself and long for a life outside of what's expected from a woman in a regency era.

And then we have our MMC Henry, major swoon!! Beyond mysterious, you can see why Evelyn is taken by him.

The whole story line is just beautiful, I even adored Evelyn's maid Clara, all the characters were incredible.

This one is definitely a slow burn, there's very little spice in this one but storyline is so gorgeous and you really just wanted to figure out the mystery.