Rebecca Anderson

Atmospheric, mysterious, romantic, and poignant! The Orchids of Ashthorne Hall immediately reminded me of Jane Eyre and Beauty and the Beast. There’s the spooky mansion with a closed off area where no one is supposed to go, rumors of ghosts and hidden treasure, and rather than roses, there are gorgeous orchids. But, this book is definitely its own thing and I loved how a tragic, often overlooked moment in history was woven into the story.

Hyacinth Bell is a botanist who’s worked hard to secure her prestigious reputation with orchids. She accepts a position at Ashthorne Hall to care for the family’s prized orchid collection while they’re away in India. Her first visit to the Hall is marred by a wind storm. Cue the ominous music. And, her welcome is anything but cordial as she finds herself regaled with stories of ghosts and a less than friendly housekeeper. There’s definitely a mystery here just begging for Hyacinth to solve.

What she doesn’t expect, is the Hall’s handsome caretaker, Lucas Harding. He’s a breath of fresh air and a charming addition to the dreary Hall. She’s immediately taken with him and finds herself easily falling in love. But, does Lucas know more than he lets on about the strange goings on in the house and can she trust him? As threatening notes, strange noises, and items disappear and then reappear in her room, she’s determined more than ever to discover the truth.

I loved the feelings the story evoked and found myself on the edge of my seat when our intrepid heroine wanders Ashthorne Hall. There’s definitely a creepy factor in addition to the sweet, whirlwind, friends to more romance. I don’t want to say much more to spoil the mystery except it was unexpectedly shocking and sad, and well worth the build up to the exciting conclusion. I was so happy with the outcome of the story.

Highly recommend to those who enjoy gothic romances and don’t mind a little spooky suspense. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4.5 to 5 stars!… (más)

Gothic feel mystery/romance

The main characters are somewhat strangely flat, given the substance of the storyline.
I found it hard to relate to them.
Hyacinth Bell is a botanist who goes to a windswept mansion, Ashthorne Hall, on the moors of Cornwall alongside pounding ocean. She is being paid to look after Mr. Charles Whitbeck’s large collection of orchids whilst he’s in India, hunting for more.
Hyacinth is warned off by a whiskey sodden ruffian who’s assisting in the local gardening shop.
At Ashthorne Hall Hyacinth finds a dour housekeeper, Mrs. Carter, who warns her to lock her bedroom door and not to wander the hallways at night.
She also meets the handsome estate’s caretaker, Lucas Harding, who is the housekeeper’s nephew.
But strange things happen in the night and Hyacinth is determined to find out what’s happening. Is there a ghost, pirates, something else?
What Hyacinth confronts is both shocking and heartbreaking. A scourge on innovation without care. But will she live to tell her tale?
This was I interesting but I wasn’t wholly engaged.

A Shadow Mountain ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.… (más)

I am a huge fan of historical romance. While I’ve spent a lot of time in the Regency era, I’m finding that I really enjoy Victorian. I am also very interested in books that have some unique themes. No balls or soirées or dinner parties? A woman who supports herself with her art? Not a single wealthy or titled person in the main character lineup? Sign. Me. Up. Just to be clear, I don’t dislike any of those things, but sometimes it’s fun to have something fresh. And The Art of Love and Lies is fresh.

I loved the premise of a heroine who supports herself with her art, by recreating famous paintings, so that other people can enjoy the artwork hanging in their own home. It presents a moral dilemma that I loved watching the Rosanna grapple with. I also loved that she sought independence, and fought hard for it, even when it meant pushing back against someone who could—and did—make life difficult for her. And then she doesn’t give up. Tenacious could be her middle name. I liked her, despite her impetuous behavior. It made for good story, especially the last 30% or so.

Martin is an absolute gem—but not perfect. *chef’s kiss* That’s my favorite kind of hero. He goes through some really good growth in this one. It was a lot of fun watching him become a better person because his love for someone inspired him to change. I loved how smitten he was with Rosanna right away, and their banter! Oh my goodness! There is a definite instant-attraction vibe going on here, but they still have to go through a lot to get to a happily ever after. And they will make you smile all the way to that HEA.

This one has a lot going for it that you can’t help but love. Romance, Victorian era, mystery, art, flirting and banter, swoony kissing (more than one!), mystery, suspense, and one terrible villain. Pick this one up if you’re ready for a delightful, quick read into the world of art, and mystery (and lies!), and romance.

**thanks to the publisher for the copy. These thoughts are all mine.… (más)