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Haunted Hearts #1
Once Upon a Moonlit Path
*Previously found in VEXED*
Lady Cassandra Priske sees dead people…not all the time, but occasionally. When her family is summoned to Castle Keyvnor for the reading of her great uncle's will, Cassy is more than terrified. After all, the castle is famous for its hauntings. But the very last person, dead or alive, she expects to find there is the rakish Lord. St. Giles. After all, she spent the last season hiding from that very man.
Jack Hazleton, Baron St. Giles, has been skirt chasing most of his life. However, over the last year, he’s only been chasing one set of skirts. Unfortunately, Lady Cassandra always eludes his grasp and has become an expert at hiding from him. But when he learns she’ll be attending her great-uncle’s will reading, he manages an invite for himself, wagering that she’s finally run out of places to hide.
Lady Cassandra Priske sees dead people…not all the time, but occasionally. When her family is summoned to Castle Keyvnor for the reading of her great uncle's will, Cassy is more than terrified. After all, the castle is famous for its hauntings. But the very last person, dead or alive, she expects to find there is the rakish Lord. St. Giles. After all, she spent the last season hiding from that very man.
Jack Hazleton, Baron St. Giles, has been skirt chasing most of his life. However, over the last year, he’s only been chasing one set of skirts. Unfortunately, Lady Cassandra always eludes his grasp and has become an expert at hiding from him. But when he learns she’ll be attending her great-uncle’s will reading, he manages an invite for himself, wagering that she’s finally run out of places to hide.
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Published August 7, 2017
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About the author
Ava Stone
125 books227 followersAva Stone is a USA Today bestselling author of Regency historical romance and college age New Adult romance. Whether in the 19th Century or the 21st, her books explore deep themes but with a light touch. A single mother, Ava lives outside Raleigh NC, with her son and two black and white tuxedo kitty cats. She loves classic movies, researching history, and traveling whenever she gets the chance.
Feel free to visit her at www.avastoneauthor.com and www.desolatesun.com
Feel free to visit her at www.avastoneauthor.com and www.desolatesun.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
December 27, 2018
**I originally read this novella in the "Vexed" Anthology**
Cassandra and Jack's story was more along the lines of what I was expecting in this collection - lots of steam, ghosts and interaction with other characters featured in the other books. The only thing I didn't care for was Jack's willingness to walk away from Cassy because he thought she might be mad. But he does redeem himself and I could almost forgive his stupidness.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the Publisher*
Cassandra and Jack's story was more along the lines of what I was expecting in this collection - lots of steam, ghosts and interaction with other characters featured in the other books. The only thing I didn't care for was Jack's willingness to walk away from Cassy because he thought she might be mad. But he does redeem himself and I could almost forgive his stupidness.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the Publisher*
January 7, 2024
Mad About Series HRBC 2024 Challenge. The 2nd book this year read for the challenge. This was a delightful story with some humor and some ghosts. The h was Cassandra Piske and the H is Jack Hazelwood a Baron. Michael Beck is Cassy's first cousin and Jack's best friend. Jack saw Cassandra a year before in Vauxhall gardens but his two friends didn't know her so he couldn't be introduced. A year later she had her come out and he finally knew who she was. He was pursuing her but she avoided him as he was a rakehell. He finally had his chance when the family went to Cornwall for the will reading of an Uncle to both Michael and Cassandra. He was Michael's guest and he pursued Cassy and she was plagued by a dark menacing ghost which only she could see. Everyone thought she was crazy. Jack stayed with her one night to comfort her. The next time she saw the ghost, he didn't even though he was standing right next to her. Finally he realized he couldn't love without her and asked her to marry him. They consummated their union and travelled to Scotland to get married. The moved to Cheshire and lived in a cottage until their next adventure back in Cornwall for a double wedding. I gave this enticing tale 4 stars.
December 28, 2018
A light read!
Enjoyable Regency romance with a sinister castle, a ghost seeing young woman, a rake and a feisty little poodle.
Lady Cassandra Priske has spent the season hiding from the notorious rake Jack Hazleton, Baron St. Giles. When Jack cadges an invite to Castle Keyvnor where Cassy will reluctantly be for the reading of her great uncle's, things don't go quite to plan for either Cassy or Jack. Avoidance becomes twice as hard and there is the small matter of the castle and it's haunted history!
A NetGalley ARC
Enjoyable Regency romance with a sinister castle, a ghost seeing young woman, a rake and a feisty little poodle.
Lady Cassandra Priske has spent the season hiding from the notorious rake Jack Hazleton, Baron St. Giles. When Jack cadges an invite to Castle Keyvnor where Cassy will reluctantly be for the reading of her great uncle's, things don't go quite to plan for either Cassy or Jack. Avoidance becomes twice as hard and there is the small matter of the castle and it's haunted history!
A NetGalley ARC
August 7, 2017
Lord & Lady Widcombe travel to Castle Keyvnor with their two daughters, Samantha, Cassandra & youngest son Tobias for the will reading of Lord Widcombe’s uncle. Lady Cassandra Priske also has her black poodle, Oscar with her., Cassy is more than terrified. After all, the castle is famous for its hauntings & she does see a man dressed all in black watching her as they arrive. But the very last person, dead or alive, she expects to find there is the rakish Jack Hazelwood, Lord. St. Giles, heir to the Duke of Margate. whom she spent the last season hiding from. Jack has travelled to the Castle with his friend Lord Michael Beck. Jack has been attracted to Cassy from the first time he saw her defending a friend.
We get to meet some of the relatives & their friends who have arrived for the will reading & I look forward to reading their stories. The chemistry between Jack & Cassy was hot & their characters well developed for a novella. However it is Oscar that steals the book. This is a well-written novella that kept me engrossed. I originally read it as part of the Vexed book of three novellas but it was so good it deserved it’s own review
We get to meet some of the relatives & their friends who have arrived for the will reading & I look forward to reading their stories. The chemistry between Jack & Cassy was hot & their characters well developed for a novella. However it is Oscar that steals the book. This is a well-written novella that kept me engrossed. I originally read it as part of the Vexed book of three novellas but it was so good it deserved it’s own review
April 20, 2018
This charming little novella was an enjoyable way to spend an hour. Seriously, one hour.
The characters and plot are both surprisingly well developed for so short a story.
I do not mind a story with a supernatural element when it is done well. This was, I think, a bit rushed. The ghost sightings etc were not badly done or off putting, but it did not lead anywhere. The ghosts left me with more questions than anything.
This story was, as I said, enjoyable. I am not sorry I read it, and I probably will read the rest of the series once it comes out. I feel like I only read part of the story, and I need to finish it. It did not rock my world, but I recommend it if you're bored or in a slump and need a short little jump start.
The characters and plot are both surprisingly well developed for so short a story.
I do not mind a story with a supernatural element when it is done well. This was, I think, a bit rushed. The ghost sightings etc were not badly done or off putting, but it did not lead anywhere. The ghosts left me with more questions than anything.
This story was, as I said, enjoyable. I am not sorry I read it, and I probably will read the rest of the series once it comes out. I feel like I only read part of the story, and I need to finish it. It did not rock my world, but I recommend it if you're bored or in a slump and need a short little jump start.
August 7, 2017
Once Upon a Moonlit Path: Lady Cassandra doesn't want to go to the castle. She really doesn't like the ghost infested castle. She sees ghosts from the moment she gets there and no one believes her. Jack has wanted Cassandra for a while and found a way to get invited to the castle. Jack worries that maybe Cassandra isn't quite sane, but he loves her and is willing to overlook that. His biggest obstacle is her father. Her father doesn't approve of him and he will have to get around that.
March 24, 2018
I have read other books by this author and enjoyed them but for some reason I didn't care for this one as much. I like the main character Jack but didn't care as much for Cassandra. I felt the author left me hanging for reasons or details as to why the ghosts of the castle were terrorizing Cassandra. The author seems to make a big point about gypsies living nearby and the neighbor being part gypsy but didn't seem to follow through as to why that was important or not. I felt the ending was not developed either with the main characters running off to Scotland to elope after being scared by the ghost and swearing they would never go back , they ending finds them with plans to return to the neighboring castle but not really giving any reason. After reading the whole story I just felt like it was incomplete and left me wondering what the point was of the ghosts being so intent on Cassandra and nobody else. Disappointing reading.
March 16, 2018
In Once Upon a Moonlit Path by author Ava Stone, Lady Cassandra Priske is on her way to Castle Keyvnor with her family for the reading of her late Uncle’s will. It is bad enough that she has to travel with her stern father, her social-climbing mother, and her annoying little brother. Her sister isn’t so bad but it does make for a crowded carriage.
No, the real problem is that Castle Keyvnor is haunted. She knows because she can see the dead. From the moment she gets to the castle she is stalked by a dark man no one else can see.
Apparently, her dog Oscar can see ghosts though. He barks whenever a ghost is in the room. He is adorably written, mischievous, playful, exactly what you would want in a pet.
Lord St. Giles, Jack Hazleton, has been wanting to get closer to Lady Cassandra for more than a year. After watching her defend another young lady, he admired her spirit and compassion, not to mention her beauty. He invites himself along hoping to spend time with her.
Although they know she had seen her late grandfather as a child, her family does not believe she can see ghosts. Will they convince Lord St. Giles that she is mad? Will he allow himself to be driven away?
A Very Enjoyable Read
This is certainly a departure from most Regency novels that I’ve read. I really enjoyed the characters, and the story was certainly different. The way the author brought the two together was fun and interesting.
There was another storyline building in the background. This new one involves a very quick romance and a Gypsy camp. I very much look forward to reading the book that will flesh that story out.
This book was read in one afternoon. I couldn’t, wouldn’t put it down.
Reviewed for LnkToMi iRead in response to a complimentary copy of the book provided by the publisher in hopes of an honest review.
No, the real problem is that Castle Keyvnor is haunted. She knows because she can see the dead. From the moment she gets to the castle she is stalked by a dark man no one else can see.
Apparently, her dog Oscar can see ghosts though. He barks whenever a ghost is in the room. He is adorably written, mischievous, playful, exactly what you would want in a pet.
Lord St. Giles, Jack Hazleton, has been wanting to get closer to Lady Cassandra for more than a year. After watching her defend another young lady, he admired her spirit and compassion, not to mention her beauty. He invites himself along hoping to spend time with her.
Although they know she had seen her late grandfather as a child, her family does not believe she can see ghosts. Will they convince Lord St. Giles that she is mad? Will he allow himself to be driven away?
A Very Enjoyable Read
This is certainly a departure from most Regency novels that I’ve read. I really enjoyed the characters, and the story was certainly different. The way the author brought the two together was fun and interesting.
There was another storyline building in the background. This new one involves a very quick romance and a Gypsy camp. I very much look forward to reading the book that will flesh that story out.
This book was read in one afternoon. I couldn’t, wouldn’t put it down.
Reviewed for LnkToMi iRead in response to a complimentary copy of the book provided by the publisher in hopes of an honest review.
September 15, 2017
Once Upon a Moonlit Path is the first book in the Haunted Hearts series by Ava Stone. It was previously released in the anthology Vexed.
Lady Cassandra Priske has to attend Castle Keyvnor with her family who have been invited to the reading of her great uncle's will. She dreads going there because the place is reportedly very haunted. Cassy has the ability to see ghosts, but of course, it's not a welcome thing because people think her mad for it.
Jack Hazleton, Baron St. Giles, has fancied Cassy for over a year from when he first saw her at Vauxhall Gardens. When he finds out that she will be attending the will reading, he gets himself an invite and is thrilled to be able to spend time with her.
Cassy enjoys spending time with Jack too, but the castle IS haunted, and she keeps seeing a menacing shadowy ghost. She is frightened into hysterics each time it shows itself and Jack starts to believe that she is mad. He has strong feelings for her though and needs to decide if they can have a future even if it will break his heart seeing her get worse with her insanity. Of course, Cassy needs to decide too if she can be with Jack when he doesn't believe that she really is seeing a ghost.
This is a quick, enjoyable story, and I thoroughly enjoyed how the relationship developed for Jack and Cassy. Her little brother is a darling devil too, and he brings some lovely lighthearted scenes to the story. Of course, there is the haunting too, Cassy IS seeing a ghost, but to my complete horror, we are never told who it is!!! How could we not be told who the ghostly man is? Apart from that, this book was wonderful, and as long as you don't mind to be left guessing about the ghost, I can recommend it.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers' copy of this book.
Lady Cassandra Priske has to attend Castle Keyvnor with her family who have been invited to the reading of her great uncle's will. She dreads going there because the place is reportedly very haunted. Cassy has the ability to see ghosts, but of course, it's not a welcome thing because people think her mad for it.
Jack Hazleton, Baron St. Giles, has fancied Cassy for over a year from when he first saw her at Vauxhall Gardens. When he finds out that she will be attending the will reading, he gets himself an invite and is thrilled to be able to spend time with her.
Cassy enjoys spending time with Jack too, but the castle IS haunted, and she keeps seeing a menacing shadowy ghost. She is frightened into hysterics each time it shows itself and Jack starts to believe that she is mad. He has strong feelings for her though and needs to decide if they can have a future even if it will break his heart seeing her get worse with her insanity. Of course, Cassy needs to decide too if she can be with Jack when he doesn't believe that she really is seeing a ghost.
This is a quick, enjoyable story, and I thoroughly enjoyed how the relationship developed for Jack and Cassy. Her little brother is a darling devil too, and he brings some lovely lighthearted scenes to the story. Of course, there is the haunting too, Cassy IS seeing a ghost, but to my complete horror, we are never told who it is!!! How could we not be told who the ghostly man is? Apart from that, this book was wonderful, and as long as you don't mind to be left guessing about the ghost, I can recommend it.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers' copy of this book.
February 7, 2018
I first read this story in the Vexed Anthology. Ava Stone’s contribution is more ghostly than I normally read but it was enjoyable and only a little scary. Ava Stone writes amazing well-rounded characters – one of the best in this story is a secondary character, Toby, Cassy’s younger brother who does a remarkable job as a troublesome baby brother. This is a fun story and well worth the read.
Lady Cassandra Priske has come to the reading of the will with her family. From the moment she arrives, she keeps seeing a dark man who seems to get more and more threatening. Jack Hazelwood, Lord St Giles isn’t there for the will but for the girl. He accompanies his friend Michael (who is a family member). He’s had his eye on Cassy for 2 seasons and is hoping to take advantage of this time at Castle Keyvnor to get closer to her. She has been avoiding him because of his rakish reputation. While Jack loves Cassy, he begins to wonder about her sanity. She keeps seeing the man in black and Jack has been present at a few occasions when she has screamed and collapsed after a sighting. Will Jack be able to put aside his worry of her sanity in order to be with the woman he loves. Additionally, will Cassy’s parents overlook Jack’s reputation – is the prospect of a dukedom enough to overlook bad behavior?
Ava Stone make the waiting for a Happily Ever After worth it.
Lady Cassandra Priske has come to the reading of the will with her family. From the moment she arrives, she keeps seeing a dark man who seems to get more and more threatening. Jack Hazelwood, Lord St Giles isn’t there for the will but for the girl. He accompanies his friend Michael (who is a family member). He’s had his eye on Cassy for 2 seasons and is hoping to take advantage of this time at Castle Keyvnor to get closer to her. She has been avoiding him because of his rakish reputation. While Jack loves Cassy, he begins to wonder about her sanity. She keeps seeing the man in black and Jack has been present at a few occasions when she has screamed and collapsed after a sighting. Will Jack be able to put aside his worry of her sanity in order to be with the woman he loves. Additionally, will Cassy’s parents overlook Jack’s reputation – is the prospect of a dukedom enough to overlook bad behavior?
Ava Stone make the waiting for a Happily Ever After worth it.
August 18, 2017
This is one of the fun Regency novellas set in the haunted Castle Keyvnor in Cornwall. Relatives near and far have been summoned for the reading of the will of the castle's former owner. Cassy certainly doesn't want to go to a haunted castle, since she has seen ghosts from time to time, but her father must attend, so the whole family has to go. While her family tries to pretend that she isn't really seeing ghosts and may even consider her mad, Cassy is just trying to get through the stay without embarrassing her family or being haunted. The ghosts have other plans, however, and one ghost in particular plagues her. She finds help from an unexpected source, as she had tried to avoid Jack Hazleton for most of the season. Now he's determined to get to know her better, and what better place than in a castle in the country, where everyone will be gathered for the will reading. Jack doesn't quite know how to handle the fact that Cassy sees ghosts, but he supports her nonetheless, which is more than she gets from her family. He's willing to defy her family to protect her and to make her his wife.
This is a fun, romantic story with just enough chills to be a good story for Halloween or anytime of year. It stands on it's own, but it is connected to the whole Castle Keyvnor series.
This is a fun, romantic story with just enough chills to be a good story for Halloween or anytime of year. It stands on it's own, but it is connected to the whole Castle Keyvnor series.
February 25, 2018
Do you believe in ghosts? Well Lady Cassandra Priske does because she has seen them most of her life! When her family is summoned to Keyvnor Castle for the reading of her great uncle's will, she knows the tales are true it being haunted when she sees an aberration in the window upon arrival. What she doesn't expect to find is Lord Jack St Giles, a notorious rake who she has spent a year avoiding. But Jack came expressly to see her and try to win her over because she is all he has been able to think about. When ghosts start appearing that only Cassy can see and her family are trying to keep it secret in case she is thought mad, Jack begins to wonder what is really going on. As Jack spends time with Cassy and her adorable poodle Oscar (yes he steals the show at times!) his feelings only strength. But what is really happening to Cassy? Are there really spirits only she can see? This is a delightful novella that kept my attention with the development between the main characters and all the wonderful secondary characters. I could not keep from smiling and wondering what was gong to happen! You will really enjoy this tale and will want to read more by Ava Stone.
March 17, 2018
Lady Cassandra Priske is anything but ordinary. Cassandra has the ability to see the dead. She struggles to be a normal woman of her era, she struggles with the fact that no one will believe her. When Cassandra and her family is summoned to her great-uncle's estate for a will reading, the foreboding sensation that something is wrong sets in. A mysterious man in black torments Cassandra at every given chance; giving everyone around her, the presumption she is mad. Although, given her ability, it does not detour the handsome Jack Hazelton, Lord. St. Giles.
Jack Hazelton, Lord St. Giles is a handsome rake, who has acquired a title. Jack has known Cassandra and her family for quite some time and has made an effort to catch her attention. It's not until Michael announces the will reading--Jack invites himself along. When he comes to find out Cassandra will also be attending, he lays on the charm-extra thick. At first, Cassandra avoids his moves and focuses on the lessons of being a lady. When Jack notices something is not right with Cassandra--Jack swoops into the rescue.
Although, when Cassandra tells Jack the truth, Jack has a choice to make. Let go of his lady love, or stand by her side through the toughest of decisions.
I enjoyed the story of Cassandra and Jack as it goes along. I especially loved the fact that Jack stayed by Cassie's side, even when everyone else didn't believe her. Not to mention told her parents that he cared for Cassie, even though her father did not approve of Jack one bit.
Although, I wish Ava would have elaborated on the main ghost that haunted the castle. She tells about the man in black. But I wish there was more of a backstory to the man, how he came to Castle Keyvnor and how he died, and why does he target Cassandra particularly. I think it would have added to the story, and given more depth.
Jack Hazelton, Lord St. Giles is a handsome rake, who has acquired a title. Jack has known Cassandra and her family for quite some time and has made an effort to catch her attention. It's not until Michael announces the will reading--Jack invites himself along. When he comes to find out Cassandra will also be attending, he lays on the charm-extra thick. At first, Cassandra avoids his moves and focuses on the lessons of being a lady. When Jack notices something is not right with Cassandra--Jack swoops into the rescue.
Although, when Cassandra tells Jack the truth, Jack has a choice to make. Let go of his lady love, or stand by her side through the toughest of decisions.
I enjoyed the story of Cassandra and Jack as it goes along. I especially loved the fact that Jack stayed by Cassie's side, even when everyone else didn't believe her. Not to mention told her parents that he cared for Cassie, even though her father did not approve of Jack one bit.
Although, I wish Ava would have elaborated on the main ghost that haunted the castle. She tells about the man in black. But I wish there was more of a backstory to the man, how he came to Castle Keyvnor and how he died, and why does he target Cassandra particularly. I think it would have added to the story, and given more depth.
August 1, 2017
Lady Cassandra Priske has spent most of her life trying to hide the fact she’s see has seen ghosts; after all no one in her family believes her and the past year avoiding a rake. Summoned to the haunted castle of her late great-uncle’s for the reading of his will has Cassandra on edge. A menacing shadow and the rake she’s avoided for a year only add to her nervousness.
Lord Jack St. Giles has spent a year trying to become acquainted with the only woman who has affected him beyond meaningless flings. Having invited himself to accompany his best friend to a will reading he may now get his chance. However, when strange things start happening will he continue to believe she’s the one for him?
Menacing ghosts, uncaring parents, a rapscallion of a brother, and a family challenged hero who doesn’t know what to believe make up the always entertaining Ava Stone’s story. To me, novella’s can seem rushed; however this is NOT the case with Ava Stone. She has a wonderful ability to tell her story without overwhelming the reader.
Lord Jack St. Giles has spent a year trying to become acquainted with the only woman who has affected him beyond meaningless flings. Having invited himself to accompany his best friend to a will reading he may now get his chance. However, when strange things start happening will he continue to believe she’s the one for him?
Menacing ghosts, uncaring parents, a rapscallion of a brother, and a family challenged hero who doesn’t know what to believe make up the always entertaining Ava Stone’s story. To me, novella’s can seem rushed; however this is NOT the case with Ava Stone. She has a wonderful ability to tell her story without overwhelming the reader.
September 18, 2017
Cool Regency romance with Gothic and paranormal elements
4 stars
I previously read this as part of the boxed set "Vexed: The Haunting of Castle Keyvnor". There are about 12 total stories in this series, all written by different authors. For all of these stories, the backstory is the same: a group of British nobility descend on a haunted castle on the shore of Cornwall to hear the reading of a will and perhaps find some husbands and wives. Then love and supernatural stuff ensue. I love how the authors of the different stories refer to characters from the other stories.
Ava Stone's "Once Upon a Moonlit Path" is a cute story. The spookiness of the castle was well described. The dog Oscar is adorable. However, I did not like how Lord St. Giles interacted with Lady Cassandra in the beginning. He seemed like he was just lustful and was not concerned with her well-being. That first impression stuck with me, so I never really liked the guy.
I was given a free advanced reading copy by the author, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
4 stars
I previously read this as part of the boxed set "Vexed: The Haunting of Castle Keyvnor". There are about 12 total stories in this series, all written by different authors. For all of these stories, the backstory is the same: a group of British nobility descend on a haunted castle on the shore of Cornwall to hear the reading of a will and perhaps find some husbands and wives. Then love and supernatural stuff ensue. I love how the authors of the different stories refer to characters from the other stories.
Ava Stone's "Once Upon a Moonlit Path" is a cute story. The spookiness of the castle was well described. The dog Oscar is adorable. However, I did not like how Lord St. Giles interacted with Lady Cassandra in the beginning. He seemed like he was just lustful and was not concerned with her well-being. That first impression stuck with me, so I never really liked the guy.
I was given a free advanced reading copy by the author, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
February 23, 2018
I was gifted a copy of Upon A Moonlit Path by Ava Stone. This is my first book to read by Stone and I loved it. Lady Cassandra Priske is visiting Castle Keyvnor to hear the reading of her great uncle’s will. But Cassie has heard that the castle is haunted and is already frightened when she arrives. Jack Hazelwood, Lord St. Giles has tagged along with Cassandra’s cousin Michael in the hopes of seeing her again. Jack has long held a tendre’ for her. But will his attraction to her fade when she claims to have seen a ghost? Is Cassandra mad?
“She honestly didn’t know what to think about St. Giles. He was too charming by half and the most handsome man she’d ever seen with his dark hair and his silvery eyes and that endearing dimple in the middle of his chin, but the way he often watched her was unsettling.”
I loved the attraction between the hero and heroine. A really great story! I can’t wait to read more from Ms. Stone.
“She honestly didn’t know what to think about St. Giles. He was too charming by half and the most handsome man she’d ever seen with his dark hair and his silvery eyes and that endearing dimple in the middle of his chin, but the way he often watched her was unsettling.”
I loved the attraction between the hero and heroine. A really great story! I can’t wait to read more from Ms. Stone.
November 29, 2018
Setting: Oct 1811 Keyvnor Castle in Bocka Morrow, Cornwall.
H: Jack St. giles Came with a friend(her cousin) he has been infatuated with her.
h: Cassandra Priske sees some dead people, at the castle was an evil dude in black. she has a black poodle named oscar.
plot/storyline: Jack thinks he has to decide whether he should pursue his love for Cassy now that she claims to be seeing ghost.. He decided it was and eventually, then he saw the ghost in black as she did, and fled the castle. (spoiler to get married in Scotland because her dad did not approve thought him one bit because of his bad rep of a rake.)
Ending- A great HEA,- Paul Hamby (5 yr boy dead son of the late earl) makes his debut here. Doesn’t do much did encourage Cassy a bit.
Overall rating: 4.5
Read as part of another series The Haunting of Keyvnor Castle bk1; Vexed
H: Jack St. giles Came with a friend(her cousin) he has been infatuated with her.
h: Cassandra Priske sees some dead people, at the castle was an evil dude in black. she has a black poodle named oscar.
plot/storyline: Jack thinks he has to decide whether he should pursue his love for Cassy now that she claims to be seeing ghost.. He decided it was and eventually, then he saw the ghost in black as she did, and fled the castle. (spoiler to get married in Scotland because her dad did not approve thought him one bit because of his bad rep of a rake.)
Ending- A great HEA,- Paul Hamby (5 yr boy dead son of the late earl) makes his debut here. Doesn’t do much did encourage Cassy a bit.
Overall rating: 4.5
Read as part of another series The Haunting of Keyvnor Castle bk1; Vexed
February 23, 2018
Wonderful book by Ava Stone. Once Upon A Moonlit Path is book 1 in the Haunted Hearts series so you will want to start here. This is the first story I have read of Ava’s but it won’t be the last. I am looking forward to the next book in this series, Once Upon A Midnight Clear, release date April 17, 2018. I found that the characters in the book to be great as well as the storyline. She can defiantly paint a picture as the descriptions are very clear. The book has a castle, ghosts, rakes, kindness, death, a will, misunderstandings, unkind parents, relatives, friendships, a maze, madness and we can’t forget love. I recommend this book as I read it in one sitting. Travel back in time to 1811 Cornwall with Lady Cassandra Priske, Jack Hazelwood - Earl of St. Giles and Oscar the poodle.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
February 24, 2018
Splendidly done novella with a dash of supernatural!
Lady Cassandra Priske sees dead people, she’s not insane exactly and she doesn’t want to go to Castle Keyvnor, she knows that it’s haunted.
Lord Jack St. Giles has been in love with Cassandra for the longest time, fortunately for him he gets an invite to Keyvnor with hopes to pursue her.
Things work out and the more time they spend together Cassandra and Jack develop feelings for each other, even though he finds Cassandra seems a little imbalanced and distraught, he means to marry her.
I loved this short novella, the spooky element to it, a fast paced read that’s perfect for a Halloween read or anytime the mood strikes for some supernatural ghost and romance.....who is the ghost?
I recieved a gifted copy from the author for my honest opinion.
Lady Cassandra Priske sees dead people, she’s not insane exactly and she doesn’t want to go to Castle Keyvnor, she knows that it’s haunted.
Lord Jack St. Giles has been in love with Cassandra for the longest time, fortunately for him he gets an invite to Keyvnor with hopes to pursue her.
Things work out and the more time they spend together Cassandra and Jack develop feelings for each other, even though he finds Cassandra seems a little imbalanced and distraught, he means to marry her.
I loved this short novella, the spooky element to it, a fast paced read that’s perfect for a Halloween read or anytime the mood strikes for some supernatural ghost and romance.....who is the ghost?
I recieved a gifted copy from the author for my honest opinion.
May 11, 2018
I am voluntarily submitting my honest review after receiving an ARC of this ebook via NetGalley.
This novella is a quick read with lots of potential that would have been much better as a full-length novel. Although Jack has admired Cassy from afar for quite some time, the culmination of their romance feels rushed and the trusted forged between them unlikely at best. The issues that lie between them are resolved with so little difficulty that they seem mere trifles when in reality, Cassy's concerns about Jack's ability to remain faithful to one woman, and Jack's fears for Cassy's very sanity are in truth very serious issues that cannot be merely swept aside in the course of an afternoon. These are issues better tackled in a longer format than the novella. Still, this is a fun, entertaining ghost story that fans of Gothic romance with enjoy by fire on a chilly autumn afternoon.
This novella is a quick read with lots of potential that would have been much better as a full-length novel. Although Jack has admired Cassy from afar for quite some time, the culmination of their romance feels rushed and the trusted forged between them unlikely at best. The issues that lie between them are resolved with so little difficulty that they seem mere trifles when in reality, Cassy's concerns about Jack's ability to remain faithful to one woman, and Jack's fears for Cassy's very sanity are in truth very serious issues that cannot be merely swept aside in the course of an afternoon. These are issues better tackled in a longer format than the novella. Still, this is a fun, entertaining ghost story that fans of Gothic romance with enjoy by fire on a chilly autumn afternoon.
February 27, 2018
You will enjoy the quick, adventurous romance by Ava.
Jack has found is match in Cassandra, after just one sighting.
Cassandra is forced to travel to her great uncle's castle for a will reading.
She is not thrilled as she does not want to see any ghosts. No one believes she sees them.
When Jack shows Cassandra that he cares she relies on him to protect her until he hears of her past. Can he get past this or will things get worse?
Hauntings and disbelieving family make it hard for Cassandra but with Jack's she thinks she can have it all.
Find out just what happens in this fast funny read.
Jack has found is match in Cassandra, after just one sighting.
Cassandra is forced to travel to her great uncle's castle for a will reading.
She is not thrilled as she does not want to see any ghosts. No one believes she sees them.
When Jack shows Cassandra that he cares she relies on him to protect her until he hears of her past. Can he get past this or will things get worse?
Hauntings and disbelieving family make it hard for Cassandra but with Jack's she thinks she can have it all.
Find out just what happens in this fast funny read.
February 28, 2018
‘Once Upon a Moonlit Path’ is a sweet story following the romance between Lady Cassandra and Lord St Giles. Jack has been infatuated with Cassandra for some time and invites himself to the reading of a will, via Cassandra’s cousin. The only problem is that the castle is haunted and Cassandra sees ghosts, much to everyone’s disbelief including Jack. To complicate the matter, Cassandra’s father is opposed to a match between the two!
This was a very quick read with characters that were well developed. Throw in a cute dog and this is an enjoyable novella.
I received an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest review.
This was a very quick read with characters that were well developed. Throw in a cute dog and this is an enjoyable novella.
I received an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 16, 2018
Once Upon a Moonlit Path by Ava Stone this is the First book in the "Haunted Hearts" series.
This is the story of Lady Cassandra Priske and Jack Hazleton, Baron St. Giles.
Jack has always been attracted to Cassandra and when he learns that she and her family are going to be at the Castle Keyvnor he plans to be there too. Cassandra isn't that excited to go the the castle became she worried about ghost there. Cassandra has the ability to see ghosts so she is dreading to deal that part of the visit but then she is shocked to see Jack there. Cassandra has spent most of her time avoiding him but times up to fast both issue it seems.
Great Read!
This is the story of Lady Cassandra Priske and Jack Hazleton, Baron St. Giles.
Jack has always been attracted to Cassandra and when he learns that she and her family are going to be at the Castle Keyvnor he plans to be there too. Cassandra isn't that excited to go the the castle became she worried about ghost there. Cassandra has the ability to see ghosts so she is dreading to deal that part of the visit but then she is shocked to see Jack there. Cassandra has spent most of her time avoiding him but times up to fast both issue it seems.
Great Read!
March 11, 2018
This story seemed promising at the outset. A shy miss, a notorious rake in pursuit, a will reading and a haunted castle. And then, a gypsy camp, a half gypsy funeral, a half gypsy wedding, an emerald, a child ghost and a disappearing dog. Then, all the promises came to naught. No explanation of the ghosts, no will reading, our couple has a HEA, but there are too many unresolved story lines.i can only assume they lead to other stories, but this feels like a book missing half the chapters. Hope the author resolves these issues. I received a free arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2017
The story was about Cassy and Jack. She can feel and see the spirits of the castle and sadly, they can feel her! No one believes that she's being "stalked" by an angry spirit and Jack even goes so far as to think she's mad. I at first though Cassy was a wimpy heroine, but the more you get to know her, the more you realize how strong she actually is! Their outcome wasn't where I thought it was going
February 21, 2018
*I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinion stated are solely my own and no one elses*
This was a short, easy read with just enough creepy spirits to send a chill down my spine.
I enjoyed the sizzling sparks exploding between Cassie and Jack.
The beginning was slow paced and the book didn’t take the direction I thought it was headed. The ending seemed abrupt; leaving me with several unanswered questions.
November 30, 2018
This is a very fast read that was surprisingly delightful up until the end. It would’ve garnered more stars from me, as it had potential, if not for such an abrupt and non climatic ending. I enjoyed the characters and I was intrigued by Cassy’s haunting, but then it’s just over. Jack sees the ghost as well, so he immediately drags Cassy from bed and they elope. The end. I felt like it was too abrupt and although the main characters elope, it seemed incomplete and unfinished.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2018
I didn’t really get this book. What was the point of the ghosts? What was the point of the will reading being the set up for the story? What was the business with Lady Charlotte and the emerald? Assuming I should have read several other books before this one, even though this is first in a series. Very disappointing.
September 7, 2019
Haunted or Hunted
Ava Stone delivers and wonderful romance with a quirky twist! I enjoyed reading this book because you had to wonder was Lady Cassandra truly mad or was it ghosts? Quick easy read and you will find yourself not able to put the book down! I really enjoy all Ava Stone books!
Ava Stone delivers and wonderful romance with a quirky twist! I enjoyed reading this book because you had to wonder was Lady Cassandra truly mad or was it ghosts? Quick easy read and you will find yourself not able to put the book down! I really enjoy all Ava Stone books!
March 3, 2018
I should not have read this at night when I was home alone. I kept expecting some icy hand to grab me! But the book was so good, I couldn't stop reading! Now I need to read the rest of Ava Stone's books.
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