Book Synopsis
A ghostly estate. A handsome caretaker hiding a secret. And the intrepid Hyacinth Bell who is set on solving the mystery of both.
1887, the Cornwall coast
For years, rumors have flown through the village of Suttonsbury about Ashthorne Hall—that its occupants hoard pirate treasure, that a ghost walks its halls—but botanist Hyacinth Bell only cares about the estate’s extensive, one-of-a-kind orchid collection. As an independent woman, she is eager to focus on her career, even if it means waiting to pursue a romantic relationship. After all, love—like an orchid—must be nurtured and tended before it can bloom.
What she doesn’t expect is to be swept away by Lucas Harding, the manor’s caretaker, upon their first meeting. He is handsome and charming, and the connection between the two is nearly instantaneous. Hyacinth is certain this autumn will be the season that everything good in her life takes root.
But then strange things start happening in the seemingly empty halls of the estate: unexplainable noises, items appearing then disappearing from her room, threatening messages, and glimpses of a woman in white who vanishes into the dark. Lucas dismisses Hyacinth’s worries, insisting that there is no ghost at Ashthorne Hall, but she suspects he is withholding information and decides to investigate the mystery herself.
Armed with little more than her instincts and her courage, Hyacinth must venture deep into the shadows of Ashthorne Hall to uncover the truth Lucas is keeping secret before she herself falls victim to the dangers hidden in the estate.
Book Details
- Publisher : Shadow Mountain (April 2, 2024)
- Genre: Historical Romance
- Series: Proper Romance
- Language : English
- Paperback : 272 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1639932356
****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****
My Review
The Orchids of Ashthorne Hall is set in 1887 along the Cornwall Coast. This book is a surprising Proper Romance with its mysterious and haunting atmosphere. It offers a refreshing change as the main characters are not from the nobility. Hyacinth Bell and Lucas Harding both work at Ashthorne Hall, located on the estate of the Whitbeck family, who are living in India. Hyacinth, a botanist, is tasked with caring for Mr. Whitbeck's prized orchid collection, while Lucas serves as the manor's caretaker.
The mystery at Ashthorne Hall begins with peculiar events within the house and its surroundings. Hyacinth suspects the presence of ghosts haunting the hallways, adding a Gothic feeling. Her investigation of the ghost was heart-thumping at times.
As far as the romance, there was an immediate attraction that sparked between Lucas and Hyacinth, leading to a thrilling and unexpected first kiss. I wish there had been more interaction and development of their romance, especially since they had excellent chemistry.
As Hyacinth discovers surprising information about her mysterious ghost, the story becomes even more gripping.
Including discussion questions by the author truly improves the reading experience for book clubs or buddy reads.
Readers who are fans of Jane Eyre and enjoy mysteries set in eerie locations will find this clean romance with a chilling atmosphere and a hint of romance, very appealing.
****Meet Author Rebecca Anderson****
Rebecca Anderson is a High school English teacher by day, writer by night (or very early morning), she loves hiking, Broadway shows, food, books, and movies. She is happily married and a mom to four above-average kids.
~*~*~*~*Purchase The Orchids of~*~*~*~*
Ashthorne Hall
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