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Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #1
Ghost Talker
Elinor Chalamet’s talent to speak with the dead may have landed her in the soup.
Witty and clever, Elinor uses her mediumship skills to hunt for her father’s killer. So when a body in the canal brings her to the morgue, she’s happy to help until Tristan Fontaine, the Duke de Archambeau, takes over the case and places her under house arrest.
Between possessions and poltergeists, she’ll solve the case even if it means putting the duke in his place. Actually, that part of the investigation may be a pleasure!
Welcome to Alenbonné, a coastal city with picturesque promenades along the canals and where the ghosts never sleep. A country where spirits and murder are just a breath away.
The first of a six-part Gaslamp fantasy ghost mystery series featuring a strong-minded female Sherlock Holmes-like character in a slow burn romance
_____________________________________________
A six part novella series for lovers of Gaslamp fantasy
#1 Ghost Talker
#2 Delicious Death
#3 Spirit Guide
#4 Gray Lady
#5 Untimely Grave
#6 Ghastly Mistake
_____________________________________________
This novella is friendly to ages 16+.
Witty and clever, Elinor uses her mediumship skills to hunt for her father’s killer. So when a body in the canal brings her to the morgue, she’s happy to help until Tristan Fontaine, the Duke de Archambeau, takes over the case and places her under house arrest.
Between possessions and poltergeists, she’ll solve the case even if it means putting the duke in his place. Actually, that part of the investigation may be a pleasure!
Welcome to Alenbonné, a coastal city with picturesque promenades along the canals and where the ghosts never sleep. A country where spirits and murder are just a breath away.
The first of a six-part Gaslamp fantasy ghost mystery series featuring a strong-minded female Sherlock Holmes-like character in a slow burn romance
_____________________________________________
A six part novella series for lovers of Gaslamp fantasy
#1 Ghost Talker
#2 Delicious Death
#3 Spirit Guide
#4 Gray Lady
#5 Untimely Grave
#6 Ghastly Mistake
_____________________________________________
This novella is friendly to ages 16+.
Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
325 people are currently reading
1726 people want to read
About the author
Byrd Nash
25 books1,495 followersDiscover fearless women, clever as cats, partnered with men who fall first even if they do have a hidden agenda. Byrd writes riveting characters who are relatable but realistically complex.
Her book series showcase alternate histories with intrigue, fantasy, and the supernatural, while Byrd’s standalone novels are thought-provoking explorations of family dysfunction using contemporary settings and magical realism.
Her book series showcase alternate histories with intrigue, fantasy, and the supernatural, while Byrd’s standalone novels are thought-provoking explorations of family dysfunction using contemporary settings and magical realism.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 301 reviews
October 16, 2022
Publication Date: 24th Oct 2022
4.2 Stars
One Liner: Entertaining
Madame Elinor Chalamet is a trained Ghost Talker, a medium belonging to the Morpheus Society. She helps the police using her skills and also takes up private clients. Elinor is also searching for her father’s killer and the missing details of his death.
A dead body puts her in the path of Tristan Fontaine, Duke de Archambeau, who needs to solve the case and keep things in wraps. However, issues get complicated (in the case and in their personal lives). Can Elinor and Tristan find the killer on time?
The story comes from Elinor’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The blurb gave me Amanda Quick's Arcane Society vibes, and I grabbed the book right away when I saw the author’s name. I read A Spell of Rowans by the author and enjoyed it.
The novella starts with a bang and progresses at a steady pace. The writing is easy and entertaining. I like the bits of humor sprinkled throughout.
Elinor is smart, intelligent, capable, and determined. She deals with people in her style and knows how to get information.
The ‘ghost’ scenes blend with the main narrative, which is an advantage and a disadvantage. The shift is seamless, but if readers want something heavily atmospheric, it can be a wee bit disappointing.
The hints about her father are just enough to keep the readers interested for the next installment. Of course, the interactions between Elinor and Tristan are just as promising.
Ann-Marie is an excellent side character. I hope she has a meatier role in the coming books. The series has loads of potential, and I hope to read them all.
The climax is good and rightly sized, but it wasn’t mind-blowing or wow. The follow-through is smooth and ends well, but I wanted a little more from the climax.
To summarize, Ghost Talker is an evenly-paced paranormal novella with a feisty heroine and a grumbling hero. It’s an entertaining read for those who enjoy the genre.
Thank you, Net Galley, Rook and Castle Press, and IBPA Members’ Titles, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#GhostTalker #NetGalley
***
P.S: I wish the cover was better. It caught my attention only because of the title and the author’s name. I can see it fits the story, but it doesn’t have the magic factor.
4.2 Stars
One Liner: Entertaining
Madame Elinor Chalamet is a trained Ghost Talker, a medium belonging to the Morpheus Society. She helps the police using her skills and also takes up private clients. Elinor is also searching for her father’s killer and the missing details of his death.
A dead body puts her in the path of Tristan Fontaine, Duke de Archambeau, who needs to solve the case and keep things in wraps. However, issues get complicated (in the case and in their personal lives). Can Elinor and Tristan find the killer on time?
The story comes from Elinor’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The blurb gave me Amanda Quick's Arcane Society vibes, and I grabbed the book right away when I saw the author’s name. I read A Spell of Rowans by the author and enjoyed it.
The novella starts with a bang and progresses at a steady pace. The writing is easy and entertaining. I like the bits of humor sprinkled throughout.
Elinor is smart, intelligent, capable, and determined. She deals with people in her style and knows how to get information.
The ‘ghost’ scenes blend with the main narrative, which is an advantage and a disadvantage. The shift is seamless, but if readers want something heavily atmospheric, it can be a wee bit disappointing.
The hints about her father are just enough to keep the readers interested for the next installment. Of course, the interactions between Elinor and Tristan are just as promising.
Ann-Marie is an excellent side character. I hope she has a meatier role in the coming books. The series has loads of potential, and I hope to read them all.
The climax is good and rightly sized, but it wasn’t mind-blowing or wow. The follow-through is smooth and ends well, but I wanted a little more from the climax.
To summarize, Ghost Talker is an evenly-paced paranormal novella with a feisty heroine and a grumbling hero. It’s an entertaining read for those who enjoy the genre.
Thank you, Net Galley, Rook and Castle Press, and IBPA Members’ Titles, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#GhostTalker #NetGalley
***
P.S: I wish the cover was better. It caught my attention only because of the title and the author’s name. I can see it fits the story, but it doesn’t have the magic factor.
February 10, 2023
I was promised a paranormal novella with a touch of slow burn romance. I was so excited! Well…
Madame Chalamet can talk to ghosts and her skills come in handy when solving murder cases. Unfortunately she sometimes knows things that should absolutely not be repeated. Or that’s what the Duke de Archambeau thinks. Since said Duke doesn’t trust her to keep her mouth shut he locks her up.
But he locks her up in his own house 🤯
The same evening he invites her to a dinner party 🤯🤯 Why?? The idea behind locking her up was so she wouldn’t talk to anyone, so - a PARTY?
This is the first novella of a series and the Duke is supposed to be the love interest and yet there was absolutely no chemistry between them. Instead she was very touchy-feely with some childhood friend (a straight one) who kept reappearing throughout the book and it was a little confusing.
The first half of the book was very boring but it picked up speed later on and became less so. Then things got excitingly creepy which I enjoyed and then turned slightly gore which I enjoyed less.
All in all unfortunately a little meh.
2.5 stars
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Madame Chalamet can talk to ghosts and her skills come in handy when solving murder cases. Unfortunately she sometimes knows things that should absolutely not be repeated. Or that’s what the Duke de Archambeau thinks. Since said Duke doesn’t trust her to keep her mouth shut he locks her up.
But he locks her up in his own house 🤯
The same evening he invites her to a dinner party 🤯🤯 Why?? The idea behind locking her up was so she wouldn’t talk to anyone, so - a PARTY?
This is the first novella of a series and the Duke is supposed to be the love interest and yet there was absolutely no chemistry between them. Instead she was very touchy-feely with some childhood friend (a straight one) who kept reappearing throughout the book and it was a little confusing.
The first half of the book was very boring but it picked up speed later on and became less so. Then things got excitingly creepy which I enjoyed and then turned slightly gore which I enjoyed less.
All in all unfortunately a little meh.
2.5 stars
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2024
Ghost Talker follows Elinor Chalamet as she solves a mystery for the king using her abilities to sense and communicate with ghosts. The series as a whole has some potential and there were a few interesting threads of stories that might be pursued in future books.
The world-building is interesting with quite a few fantasy elements and the story though starting slowly at first with quite a few tropes, picks up some momentum later on. The characters however, including the two leads Elinor and Tristan seem one-dimensional and not very well sketched, sometimes even coming across as hypocritical. The humor in the whole book is overstated and the writing itself is stilted, perhaps due to translational errors - but these might be fixed in the final edited copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers Rook and Castle Press for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🌟🌟
[Half a star for the premise and the whole book; Half a star for the story arc; Half a star for the world-building; Half a star for the characters; Zero stars for the writing - Two stars in total.]
The world-building is interesting with quite a few fantasy elements and the story though starting slowly at first with quite a few tropes, picks up some momentum later on. The characters however, including the two leads Elinor and Tristan seem one-dimensional and not very well sketched, sometimes even coming across as hypocritical. The humor in the whole book is overstated and the writing itself is stilted, perhaps due to translational errors - but these might be fixed in the final edited copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers Rook and Castle Press for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🌟🌟
[Half a star for the premise and the whole book; Half a star for the story arc; Half a star for the world-building; Half a star for the characters; Zero stars for the writing - Two stars in total.]
November 7, 2022
Ghost Talker
By Byrd Nash
This excellent tale mixes unique characters, ghosts, atmospheric settings, great dialogue, and all happening around 1900 or so. The strong willed psychic woman and a duke against a ghost. Fun story that made me smile. Definitely want to read more of this series!
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this terrific book!
By Byrd Nash
This excellent tale mixes unique characters, ghosts, atmospheric settings, great dialogue, and all happening around 1900 or so. The strong willed psychic woman and a duke against a ghost. Fun story that made me smile. Definitely want to read more of this series!
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this terrific book!
November 8, 2022
With its period-style prose, witty heroine, clever world-building and excellent writing Ghost Talker is a captivating opener to this mystery series. Whilst the book has a late Victorian feel it is set in a fictional land, blending historical fiction, cosy mystery and fantasy both cleverly and successfully. The story moves along at a steady pace and I quickly found myself enamoured by the whirlwind that is Elinor Chalamet.
For a novella, the book really managed to pack a lot in, including a wide cast of characters and some excellent world-building. The author cleverly wove in elements that I'm sure will come into play in subsequent books and left us with several unanswered questions to hold our interest. For me the mystery part could have taken a back seat - that's how much I enjoyed spending time with Elinor, the Duke and their associates. I hasten to add that the mystery part was good too - very much the icing AND the cherry on the cake.
I liked how the main plot of this story was tied up, it both made sense and felt plausible. I'm already invested in this intrepid pair and can't wait to read about their next adventure.
For a novella, the book really managed to pack a lot in, including a wide cast of characters and some excellent world-building. The author cleverly wove in elements that I'm sure will come into play in subsequent books and left us with several unanswered questions to hold our interest. For me the mystery part could have taken a back seat - that's how much I enjoyed spending time with Elinor, the Duke and their associates. I hasten to add that the mystery part was good too - very much the icing AND the cherry on the cake.
I liked how the main plot of this story was tied up, it both made sense and felt plausible. I'm already invested in this intrepid pair and can't wait to read about their next adventure.
October 27, 2022
What a fun read! A lovely combination of gaslight fantasy and ghost story, with a touch of romance, set in a time and place that suggests France, c. 1900.
The blurb sets it up nicely:
Trained as a medium by the elite Morpheus Society, Elinor Chalamet uses her skills to aid the police in the coastal city of Alenbonne.
But a dead body found in the canal puts her in deep with royal matters. And she might even succeed in solving the mystery if Tristan Fontaine, duke de Archambeau, would stop getting in her way.
I love our heroine Elinor Chalamet, who uses the honorific 'Madame' to lend a certain formality to her position, though she has never been married. She is smart, confident, and very good at her chosen profession. I like the way the author imagined the art and science of dealing with ghosts--very straight-forward. The lively interactions between Elinor and the duke hint at the romance to come. And the mention of Elinor's quest to find the person who murdered her father gives us a story arc for the series.
This is the first in a projected series of six novellas. I have already pre-ordered the second one, Delicious Death and the third one Spirit Guide.
Thank goodness it is only two months between the release dates!
The blurb sets it up nicely:
Trained as a medium by the elite Morpheus Society, Elinor Chalamet uses her skills to aid the police in the coastal city of Alenbonne.
But a dead body found in the canal puts her in deep with royal matters. And she might even succeed in solving the mystery if Tristan Fontaine, duke de Archambeau, would stop getting in her way.
I love our heroine Elinor Chalamet, who uses the honorific 'Madame' to lend a certain formality to her position, though she has never been married. She is smart, confident, and very good at her chosen profession. I like the way the author imagined the art and science of dealing with ghosts--very straight-forward. The lively interactions between Elinor and the duke hint at the romance to come. And the mention of Elinor's quest to find the person who murdered her father gives us a story arc for the series.
This is the first in a projected series of six novellas. I have already pre-ordered the second one, Delicious Death and the third one Spirit Guide.
Thank goodness it is only two months between the release dates!
December 22, 2022
Ghost Talker by Byrd Nash is the start of a series with a fascinating world. We have setting that is loosely French and historical, but a paranormal element is layered on top. Ghosts are real in this world and some people are able to interact with them. Our main character, Elinor Chalamet is one of the "ghost talkers" who earns a living with private clients seeking information about dead loved ones, but doing pro bono work for the police in her city. In this initial installment, she has helped a relative of the king communicate with police and government agents about the hours before his murder. He has stolen something that will interrupt a treaty with a nearby country.
There is quite a bit of world building here, which is to be expected in the first book of a series. It's done efficiently, in the early pages, though there is a rush of more information during the final action scene. It borders on an info dump. The pace is accelerated at this point, so I just went with the flow.
The characters are interesting, all with a little edge that has this feeling Victorian. A side plot allows the gruff, arrogant male main character to show a crack in his armor as he generously resolves a sad situation.
While the story is told from Elinor's point of view, there still a lot to learn about her and her backstory. The stage is set for the second book in this story's epilogue and I imagine most readers will want to dive into the next installment right away.
There is quite a bit of world building here, which is to be expected in the first book of a series. It's done efficiently, in the early pages, though there is a rush of more information during the final action scene. It borders on an info dump. The pace is accelerated at this point, so I just went with the flow.
The characters are interesting, all with a little edge that has this feeling Victorian. A side plot allows the gruff, arrogant male main character to show a crack in his armor as he generously resolves a sad situation.
While the story is told from Elinor's point of view, there still a lot to learn about her and her backstory. The stage is set for the second book in this story's epilogue and I imagine most readers will want to dive into the next installment right away.
October 18, 2022
I'm so glad I happened to see this book. I've been in the mood for something a little bit different and this seems like it might fill that need. This is the first book in what is said to be planned as a six-part novella series. Combining historical atmosphere, fantasy and paranormal genres turned out to be a winner for me. The feeling of being in a country somewhere in Europe, especially as it strongly resembles France, placed in the early 1900's, gives the story a familiarity for those of us who enjoy mystery and/or romantic historical novels. The fantasy aspect comes about through the ghost talking that Madame Elinor Chalamet does in her work with the police. (I must say that addressing Elinor as Madame made me think that she was an older woman before the story revealed her to be less than thirty years old. It was a little bump in my otherwise smooth ride.)
The ghost talking is done in a very reasonable manner which I was very glad to see because I can be a very critical reader. I liked Tristan Fontaine, duke of Archambeau, who is the noble opposite to Elinor, the commoner. The handwriting is fully legible on the wall - Elinor and Tristan are going to have to find a way to work together. Bet they work it out, too.
I appreciate that things like a cast of characters is included along with the correct pronunciations for names, things and places. If I'm going to be following these characters around for any length of time, I like to think I am at least calling them by their correct names. There is also a sneak peek at the second novella in the series to whet the appetite. I will certainly be ready when the next book in the series drops.
Thank you to NetGalley and Rook and Castle Press for an e-galley of this novella.
The ghost talking is done in a very reasonable manner which I was very glad to see because I can be a very critical reader. I liked Tristan Fontaine, duke of Archambeau, who is the noble opposite to Elinor, the commoner. The handwriting is fully legible on the wall - Elinor and Tristan are going to have to find a way to work together. Bet they work it out, too.
I appreciate that things like a cast of characters is included along with the correct pronunciations for names, things and places. If I'm going to be following these characters around for any length of time, I like to think I am at least calling them by their correct names. There is also a sneak peek at the second novella in the series to whet the appetite. I will certainly be ready when the next book in the series drops.
Thank you to NetGalley and Rook and Castle Press for an e-galley of this novella.
September 13, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. The characters, the conversations, the descriptions and the ghost tale itself were well developed and extremely well written. At times, I would read a sentence or two aloud to my husband because of the language used by the author. At one point, I tried to come up with a word to describe what I was trying to share with him about the writing style, and he offered "eloquent." I agreed. The author does a superb job of describing the characters and the time period in which they live. The characters are likable, and I look forward to more books in this series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 28, 2023
This was a quick-paced and charming little mystery. I enjoyed the main character's wit and her interactions with the others in the story.
While the main plot was intriguing, it fell a little flat to me. The conclusion left me less than satisfied. I was more interested in the side story, the mystery regarding the death of the duke's wife. Hopefully it will be resolved in future books.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Rook and Castle Press for sending me a free copy
While the main plot was intriguing, it fell a little flat to me. The conclusion left me less than satisfied. I was more interested in the side story, the mystery regarding the death of the duke's wife. Hopefully it will be resolved in future books.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Rook and Castle Press for sending me a free copy
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November 1, 2025LAST DAY FOR THIS SALE. Ghost Talker is FREE today but will be returning to its regular price tomorrow.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐬𝐥𝐨𝐰-𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐡-𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧-𝐨𝐟-𝐭𝐡𝐞-𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝟏𝟗𝟎𝟎𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤.
💀💀
Reader feedback:
“𝐇𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞!”
“𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬.”
“𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬!”
💀💀
About this series:
· Witty Gaslamp fantasy with great banter;
· Unique fantasy world with ghost, mediums, and murder;
· Fast paced with interesting characters;
· Combines historical atmosphere, fantasy, and paranormal in a winning combination;
· Fantastic world building with a new approach to ghosts.
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: I love to share my personal viewpoint of the story, parts I loved to write, or ideas about characters or plotting.
𝑮𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝑻𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒆𝒓 #𝟏
𝑫𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝑫𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 #𝟐
𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒕 𝑮𝒖𝒊𝒅𝒆 #𝟑
𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒚 𝑳𝒂𝒅𝒚 #𝟒
𝑯𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆 #𝟓
𝑮𝒉𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝑴𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 #𝟔
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐬𝐥𝐨𝐰-𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐡-𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧-𝐨𝐟-𝐭𝐡𝐞-𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝟏𝟗𝟎𝟎𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤.
💀💀
Reader feedback:
“𝐇𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞!”
“𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬.”
“𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬!”
💀💀
About this series:
· Witty Gaslamp fantasy with great banter;
· Unique fantasy world with ghost, mediums, and murder;
· Fast paced with interesting characters;
· Combines historical atmosphere, fantasy, and paranormal in a winning combination;
· Fantastic world building with a new approach to ghosts.
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬: I love to share my personal viewpoint of the story, parts I loved to write, or ideas about characters or plotting.
𝑮𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝑻𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒆𝒓 #𝟏
𝑫𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝑫𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 #𝟐
𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒕 𝑮𝒖𝒊𝒅𝒆 #𝟑
𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒚 𝑳𝒂𝒅𝒚 #𝟒
𝑯𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆 #𝟓
𝑮𝒉𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒍𝒚 𝑴𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 #𝟔
May 25, 2022
Ghost Talker is an excellent paranormal mystery! I enjoyed it very much. The main characters achieve believable dialogue and gained my interest with their unique personalities. The world building makes it easy to visualize the settings and action. It is scheduled for publication in autumn of 2022 and I highly recommend it.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this ebook from the author and this is my honest and unsolicited opinion.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this ebook from the author and this is my honest and unsolicited opinion.
October 3, 2022
As a fan of Byrd Nash I must say she has been venturing out in her writing style which a wonderful thing!!!! This book was funny, adventurous, and engaging. I am always up for a lady who is strong and gutsy!!! Madame Chalamet navigates her and the Dukes worlds with amazing grace...When dealing with ghosts one must be careful, so what will the madame do when her world is turned upside down by the Duke and other worldly problems. Can she handle the Duke and ghosts at the same time? One thing I would have liked to read more of was, the death of the Duke's wife....could he be telling his truth regarding his wife's death? Or, is there a ghost/living killer in the house? Well, I guess I must wait for the next book for answers....I highly recommend this story if you like mysteries, ghosts, and a walk towards the past.
January 16, 2023
I love a good cozy mystery, or a book that’s historical fiction, or a fantasy story but this is the first time, I believe, that I’ve found all three genres in one enjoyable book.
Okay now, based on the title of the book I expected an apparition or two but there were quite a few and they were doing a lot of talking to Madame Eleanor Chalamet who is not a charlatan but a genuine woman who earns her living by helping spirits and those they haunt. She is recruited to have a chat with a corpse and meets the Duke de Archambeau who is not a believer and yet needs her help and there our story begins.
The author has created a world that is at times familiar with horse drawn carriages, corseted ladies, servants and titled gentlemen and at other times not what you expect with a few independent women and stubborn ghosts. It is sort of France, sort of Victorian England but not exactly either of those but a combination of the two to create it’s own world.
I enjoyed this book and its characters and look forward to reading more about Madame Chalamet and her ghosts.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author, Byrd Nash.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Okay now, based on the title of the book I expected an apparition or two but there were quite a few and they were doing a lot of talking to Madame Eleanor Chalamet who is not a charlatan but a genuine woman who earns her living by helping spirits and those they haunt. She is recruited to have a chat with a corpse and meets the Duke de Archambeau who is not a believer and yet needs her help and there our story begins.
The author has created a world that is at times familiar with horse drawn carriages, corseted ladies, servants and titled gentlemen and at other times not what you expect with a few independent women and stubborn ghosts. It is sort of France, sort of Victorian England but not exactly either of those but a combination of the two to create it’s own world.
I enjoyed this book and its characters and look forward to reading more about Madame Chalamet and her ghosts.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author, Byrd Nash.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2022
The idea of a mystery story featuring a protagonist who could talk to ghosts was something that appealed to me.
It was a very interesting story, light enough to read in one sitting, and not too long or drawn out. The characters interested me, and the storyline in general was interesting. The story had an eerie feel, which is what I was hoping for.
This is probably the kind of story that I would enjoy reading around Halloween. I think I would be interested in reading some more of the books in the series, and I would recommend this to my friends who enjoy books in the paranormal/horror genres.
It was a very interesting story, light enough to read in one sitting, and not too long or drawn out. The characters interested me, and the storyline in general was interesting. The story had an eerie feel, which is what I was hoping for.
This is probably the kind of story that I would enjoy reading around Halloween. I think I would be interested in reading some more of the books in the series, and I would recommend this to my friends who enjoy books in the paranormal/horror genres.
January 10, 2023
This was a highly enjoyable read mainly thanks to how snarky our female lead Elinor is. I liked how it didn't immediately dive into romance, but rather focused on building up the settings and letting us meet the characters to get a sense of them. I found it utterly hilarious that the female lead was so competent while the (potential) male lead sorta fumbled along. It was clever how she managed to get around his rules by annoying him into changing them. Can't wait to read more of these two when I pick up the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Sending thanks to BookSirens for allowing me to get this copy!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Sending thanks to BookSirens for allowing me to get this copy!!
October 10, 2022
A vivid landscape with lavish characters and delicious details, is what I have come to expect from a Byrd Nash book, and Ghost Talker met that mark and then some.
There is a layered richness in this plot, all of which helps to place the reader inside the story, which has a great pace, and keeps you wondering how everything will resolve itself.
I would totally read this book again, and can not wait until the next instalment of the series.
If you enjoy strong female characters with a flare for having fun with the macabre, then you will want to add this to your reading list!
There is a layered richness in this plot, all of which helps to place the reader inside the story, which has a great pace, and keeps you wondering how everything will resolve itself.
I would totally read this book again, and can not wait until the next instalment of the series.
If you enjoy strong female characters with a flare for having fun with the macabre, then you will want to add this to your reading list!
September 13, 2022
this was a great start to the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries series, I was invested in reading this from the description. It was done really well and had a interesting world. The characters were what I wanted and I enjoyed trying to solve the mystery with them. It left me wanting more and I'm glad I was able to read this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2022
👑Ghost Talker 👻
Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Volume 1
✒️ Byrd Nash
https://www.facebook.com/byrdnashbooks
Release Date 10/24/2022
Publisher Rook and Castle Press
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B4HNQL4T/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Madame Elinor Chalamet battles a ghost in the Beyond. Trained as a medium by the elite Morpheus Society, Elinor Chalamet uses her skills to aid the police while she hunts for her father’s killer in the coastal city of Alenbonne. But a dead body found in the canal puts her in deep with royal matters. And she might even succeed in solving the mystery if Tristan Fontaine, duke de Archambeau, would stop getting in her way. The first of a six part gaslamp fantasy ghost mystery series featuring a strong female character in a slow burn romance. _______
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When a body leads to a crown affair …
I do not usually read stories set on the course of many books except for mysteries, I also do not read fantasy but I had the feeling this book was as much a paranormal tale than a fantasy, the fantasy being more the background setting than faeries or witches. Thus this book is a sort of mix of everything, all the more for the entertainment of the readers, a cross between mystery, paranormal, verging on the steampunk world with a dash of romance and humor.
The story is narrated in the first person from Elinor’s point of view.
She is sassy, mouthy, feisty and witty (thus the first sentence of the book : “ Dead bodies interrupted my dessert course. “), to summarize she made herself the woman she is now.
Her past is briefly explored, as I suppose she will get new clues along her future investigations.
She is a fun character to follow, letting no one demean her, with quips and a quick mind she disarms her adversaries, yet her heart is sweet to those in need, why she is fair and nice, befriending people from different upbringing or status. Her curious and good nature leads her to help anyone in need of a little push from her side.
I can not wait to read more of her adventures and how crossing path again with the duke will turn into a romance.
Archambeau is also a mystery to explore, did he truly kill his wife, what of all these secrets around her passing. Yet it looks like to be an investigation left for later.
So even if it is not a classical historical mystery, this spunky heroine will make you want to read more about her.
After all, only two months until her next affair.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 none
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
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#bookstagram #historicalmystery #fantasyfiction #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2022read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #byrdnash #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Volume 1
✒️ Byrd Nash
https://www.facebook.com/byrdnashbooks
Release Date 10/24/2022
Publisher Rook and Castle Press
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B4HNQL4T/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Madame Elinor Chalamet battles a ghost in the Beyond. Trained as a medium by the elite Morpheus Society, Elinor Chalamet uses her skills to aid the police while she hunts for her father’s killer in the coastal city of Alenbonne. But a dead body found in the canal puts her in deep with royal matters. And she might even succeed in solving the mystery if Tristan Fontaine, duke de Archambeau, would stop getting in her way. The first of a six part gaslamp fantasy ghost mystery series featuring a strong female character in a slow burn romance. _______
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When a body leads to a crown affair …
I do not usually read stories set on the course of many books except for mysteries, I also do not read fantasy but I had the feeling this book was as much a paranormal tale than a fantasy, the fantasy being more the background setting than faeries or witches. Thus this book is a sort of mix of everything, all the more for the entertainment of the readers, a cross between mystery, paranormal, verging on the steampunk world with a dash of romance and humor.
The story is narrated in the first person from Elinor’s point of view.
She is sassy, mouthy, feisty and witty (thus the first sentence of the book : “ Dead bodies interrupted my dessert course. “), to summarize she made herself the woman she is now.
Her past is briefly explored, as I suppose she will get new clues along her future investigations.
She is a fun character to follow, letting no one demean her, with quips and a quick mind she disarms her adversaries, yet her heart is sweet to those in need, why she is fair and nice, befriending people from different upbringing or status. Her curious and good nature leads her to help anyone in need of a little push from her side.
I can not wait to read more of her adventures and how crossing path again with the duke will turn into a romance.
Archambeau is also a mystery to explore, did he truly kill his wife, what of all these secrets around her passing. Yet it looks like to be an investigation left for later.
So even if it is not a classical historical mystery, this spunky heroine will make you want to read more about her.
After all, only two months until her next affair.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 none
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cjxe_l...
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?stor...
#bookstagram #historicalmystery #fantasyfiction #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2022read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #byrdnash #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
July 24, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ahahaha I LOVED THIS!
As a life-long Sherlock Holmes fan, I was immediately intrigued by Madame Chalamet, particularly because it's sleuth meet ghost - and there's been an influx of really great adaptations in this era, pitting females versus males (looking at you, Miss Scarlet and the Duke).
So I mean, having a woman who talks to ghosts get nabbed by a rich, used-to-getting-his-way duke, put under house arrest, then thumb her nose up at him by running up his bank account, learning details he doesn't want her to learn, and solving his problems AND mystery for him?
Yeah, I'd say this was right up my alley.
The characters grip you immediately, or at the very least, Elinor Chalamet does, and hers is the voice we hear as we read the book, so that's the most important bit. The duke probably needs just a smidgen more fleshing out, but as an overbearing dragon (pun intended based on the plot) he's actually right on the money, complete with scorned lover, dead wife, a boar of a mother and a rather vapid sister!
I can't wait to dig into this deeper; the author's writing style is quick, slick and definitely engaging. I'm chomping at the bit to read book two!
10/10 recommend.
Ahahaha I LOVED THIS!
As a life-long Sherlock Holmes fan, I was immediately intrigued by Madame Chalamet, particularly because it's sleuth meet ghost - and there's been an influx of really great adaptations in this era, pitting females versus males (looking at you, Miss Scarlet and the Duke).
So I mean, having a woman who talks to ghosts get nabbed by a rich, used-to-getting-his-way duke, put under house arrest, then thumb her nose up at him by running up his bank account, learning details he doesn't want her to learn, and solving his problems AND mystery for him?
Yeah, I'd say this was right up my alley.
The characters grip you immediately, or at the very least, Elinor Chalamet does, and hers is the voice we hear as we read the book, so that's the most important bit. The duke probably needs just a smidgen more fleshing out, but as an overbearing dragon (pun intended based on the plot) he's actually right on the money, complete with scorned lover, dead wife, a boar of a mother and a rather vapid sister!
I can't wait to dig into this deeper; the author's writing style is quick, slick and definitely engaging. I'm chomping at the bit to read book two!
10/10 recommend.
October 27, 2022
This book was by far a must read for me. I could not put this down. The story was full of intrigue, as well as the characters that really shaped how the story would go! A great read!
Personally loved Elinor. She was devoted in her search for the truth. She knew there would be danger in her quest, but she stayed persistent. The book was great! Ghosts, unanswered secrets, and a path that proved more to be found than what it seemed. I devoured this book! The characters were great, and some you loved, and others not so much! I cannot wait to read the continuation I very much enjoyed this book!
Great read full of intrigue and suspense. I highly recommend it. I think that everyone would enjoy this read. Especially around this time of year! For a spooky read that holds your interest, check out this must read!
Personally loved Elinor. She was devoted in her search for the truth. She knew there would be danger in her quest, but she stayed persistent. The book was great! Ghosts, unanswered secrets, and a path that proved more to be found than what it seemed. I devoured this book! The characters were great, and some you loved, and others not so much! I cannot wait to read the continuation I very much enjoyed this book!
Great read full of intrigue and suspense. I highly recommend it. I think that everyone would enjoy this read. Especially around this time of year! For a spooky read that holds your interest, check out this must read!
November 24, 2022
I’m huge on ghost stories and hauntings! Ever since I was a kid and the house I grew up in was haunted. To this day people who live there now tell me they have experiences. Sooo when I signed up for this book I wasn’t sure what to expect but i really enjoyed how Byrd Nash incorporated the feel of The Crown into the story but with a twist! Oh and I love dragons too so finding out the missing tiara was possessed by a ghost dragon was very cool. Miss Chalamet is a medium/clairvoyant who can see and speak to ghosts and can also detect authentic jewelry from her father’s training. The Duke however is a mysterious character that said he killed his wife but I’m pretty sure he’s protecting someone. I liked Miss Chalamet’s spunk and energy.
This was a fun story to read and I look forward to the next book.
I received this ARC from BookSirens and I’m voluntarily leaving my review.
This was a fun story to read and I look forward to the next book.
I received this ARC from BookSirens and I’m voluntarily leaving my review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2024
This is the perfect murder mystery if you want a Sherlock Holmes style regency mystery, with a strong female lead, elements of the occult, spirits, and curses.
Madame Chalamet is summoned to help with a murder victim, she has unique paranormal abilities and can summon the dead, alongside her use of deduction and wit she is an intelligent investigator.
In a whirlwind of events she helps expose a fraudulent medium, uses her skills to question the deceased, then is held captive at a Duke's home while the investigation continues due to its sensitive connections.
What follows is an entertaining and fast paced journey, with possessions, cursed objects, long buried secrets and scandals, and entertaining ghost hunts in a haunted house.
It's witty, charming, mysterious and gripping. This is the first in a series and I'm looking forward to reading more of these spooky investigations and seeing more secrets come to light.
💀 "You do like getting to the point, don't you, Madame Nosy? Doesn't your power of deductions explain how it happened?"
💀 "Curiousity killed the cat, Chalamet"
"And satisfaction brought it back"
💀 "I hope you are doing well"
"Oh, yes, except for being held prisoner and forced to dine with snobs"
💀 "You aren't like the others. You're special"
"You probably say that to everyone your terrorize"
💀"Oh, it's gotten me into lots of trouble. But I like trouble"
Madame Chalamet is summoned to help with a murder victim, she has unique paranormal abilities and can summon the dead, alongside her use of deduction and wit she is an intelligent investigator.
In a whirlwind of events she helps expose a fraudulent medium, uses her skills to question the deceased, then is held captive at a Duke's home while the investigation continues due to its sensitive connections.
What follows is an entertaining and fast paced journey, with possessions, cursed objects, long buried secrets and scandals, and entertaining ghost hunts in a haunted house.
It's witty, charming, mysterious and gripping. This is the first in a series and I'm looking forward to reading more of these spooky investigations and seeing more secrets come to light.
💀 "You do like getting to the point, don't you, Madame Nosy? Doesn't your power of deductions explain how it happened?"
💀 "Curiousity killed the cat, Chalamet"
"And satisfaction brought it back"
💀 "I hope you are doing well"
"Oh, yes, except for being held prisoner and forced to dine with snobs"
💀 "You aren't like the others. You're special"
"You probably say that to everyone your terrorize"
💀"Oh, it's gotten me into lots of trouble. But I like trouble"
January 16, 2023
Elinor is a Ghost Talker in league with the Morpheus Group. She works with the local authorities and her friend, Dr. LaRue, who works in the morgue to solve murders. When a man related to the king winds up dead, a crown goes missing, and everything is hanging on both to be solved before it becomes a political nightmare... Elinor finds herself adding yet another accomplice to solve this mystery. The widowed Duke Archambeau is the king's man, not one to look for help, and definitely NOT a believer in Ghost Talkers. However, as he finds himself in need of Elinor's help, he can't help but become a little intrigued by the whole ghost talking thing, as well as Elinor. Will they be able to solve the mystery before it causes political unrest? Can Elinor resist the lure of solving Duke Archambeau's supposed ghost?
I really enjoyed this book. It was quick moving, well written, and I loved all the characters. I couldn't help but love Elinor's frankness with the duke, and how he just didn't really know what to do with her. I like that they didn't instantly fall in love, but all signs point to a slow building relationship. This is a fresh hearted and informative read. I am looking forward to reading the next installments of this series. I truly cannot wait to see how their relationship continues to grow!
I really enjoyed this book. It was quick moving, well written, and I loved all the characters. I couldn't help but love Elinor's frankness with the duke, and how he just didn't really know what to do with her. I like that they didn't instantly fall in love, but all signs point to a slow building relationship. This is a fresh hearted and informative read. I am looking forward to reading the next installments of this series. I truly cannot wait to see how their relationship continues to grow!
October 26, 2022
Ghost Talker is the first book in this historical six-book series Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries. It is a Gaslamp ghostly fantasy tale. Byrd writes strong sassy female characters in her stories and this one is no different. The story is told in the first person POV. This slow burn mystery romance is a quick, and intriguing read with humour.
Medium Elinor Chalamet finds herself going up against a ghost in the Beyond whilst trying to catch a killer. However, a certain someone keeps getting in her way making things harder than they need to be in more than one way.
It will be interesting to see where Byrd takes the story.
Medium Elinor Chalamet finds herself going up against a ghost in the Beyond whilst trying to catch a killer. However, a certain someone keeps getting in her way making things harder than they need to be in more than one way.
It will be interesting to see where Byrd takes the story.
December 2, 2024
This was a damn fine Gaslamp fantasy ghost mystery with a dash of slow burn romance, featuring a strong-minded female Sherlock Holmes-like character.
Did I read it in one sitting?
Yep. I sure did.
Did it make me chuckle and even laugh out loud?
Hell yeah.
Did it keep me at the edge of the seat with those ghostly mysteries?
Absolutely.
Did I love it enough to buy the rest of the series?
You can bet your bookish asses on that.
For a novella, this first installment in the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries packs a solid punch, despite the shorter page count. And it has that little extra something to not only keep you hooked, but also wanting more.
It's the epitome of an unputdownable classy smart read.
Did I read it in one sitting?
Yep. I sure did.
Did it make me chuckle and even laugh out loud?
Hell yeah.
Did it keep me at the edge of the seat with those ghostly mysteries?
Absolutely.
Did I love it enough to buy the rest of the series?
You can bet your bookish asses on that.
For a novella, this first installment in the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries packs a solid punch, despite the shorter page count. And it has that little extra something to not only keep you hooked, but also wanting more.
It's the epitome of an unputdownable classy smart read.
December 7, 2022
Madame Chalamet is a woman on many missions, in a time where women were known more for their beauty then their brains. When she ends up on the wrong-ish side of a psychic sting operation, she ends up on the radar of the handsome Duke de Chambeux who demands she stay at his palace so she doesn't spill secrets she shouldn't know-- since she actually CAN speak to spirits.
I enjoyed watching Madame Chalamet dance circles around all the men in her life, as she tries to solve the mystery of her father's death, while making her way as a ghost talker. I can't wait to read the next installment!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed watching Madame Chalamet dance circles around all the men in her life, as she tries to solve the mystery of her father's death, while making her way as a ghost talker. I can't wait to read the next installment!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 29, 2022
Elinor is a Ghost Talker, respected in some circles and looked down upon in others. Previously she has helped the inspector with certain cases pertaining the dead, so was frustrated but unsurprised when her dessert was interrupted. However, since a duke is involved, she decided to forgo the coffee and make her way quickly to the morgue. She did not foresee how that choice would change her usual routines so dramatically, nor her part in what was to come.
I thoroughly enjoyed this text. As usual, Nash has created a complex and relatable character in Elinor Chalamet. She is a strong, confident, intelligent and independent woman during a time where it was often frowned upon. I love her! The way that the ghosts and the act of being a Ghost Talker is described makes it sound so natural, engaging me in her fantasy world as well as the characters within it. The plot flowed at a steady and engaging pace so there wasn’t a good place to stop, resulting in me consuming the entire text in a single sitting and immediatlely wanting more. I was already a huge Byrd Nash fan, and this text has further endeared her writing to me, I will be reading the next in the series as soon as I can get my hands on it. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from BookSirens. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I thoroughly enjoyed this text. As usual, Nash has created a complex and relatable character in Elinor Chalamet. She is a strong, confident, intelligent and independent woman during a time where it was often frowned upon. I love her! The way that the ghosts and the act of being a Ghost Talker is described makes it sound so natural, engaging me in her fantasy world as well as the characters within it. The plot flowed at a steady and engaging pace so there wasn’t a good place to stop, resulting in me consuming the entire text in a single sitting and immediatlely wanting more. I was already a huge Byrd Nash fan, and this text has further endeared her writing to me, I will be reading the next in the series as soon as I can get my hands on it. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from BookSirens. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 23, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Me, when I saw the title and read the book description: "I see it, I like it, I want it, … I got it" ©
The plot: Elinor Chalamet is a jeweler's daughter, a medium helping people, and a Ghost Talker, who occasionally helps police with their investigations. But this new case must be something extraordinary as Tristan Fontaine, Duke de Archambeau, is present at the morgue, especially since he does not believe in talking to ghosts. So, why does he want a Ghost Talker there?
What I didn't like:
Bear in mind, these are not things that I disliked, but the little suggestion which might have made my reading experience more pleasant.
There is this thing that confused me - the time period of events. Since women wear corsets, travel with coaches driven by horses, and Dr. Charlotte LaRue is able to work in the morgue - I would assume it is sometime in the 19th century. But at the same time, the way the characters speak (except addresses to people) and behave made me think it is modern days. Anyway, it is just my confusion.
Another thing is more of a recommendation - to put the cast of characters and helpful information at the beginning of the book. At first, I struggled to understand geography especially, and since I was reading an e-book, I did not check the table of contents, so when I saw the information about countries at the end of the book I was like - I wish I knew that earlier. But again, this one is on me.
What I liked:
1. the characters. The main characters are well-written. Madame Chalamet arouses admiration for being a strong smart woman, a professional in her field and also in jewelry (which she learned from her father), who is independent and makes her own living. Duke de Archambeau is sort of a typical male - dark, tall, and mysterious 😉 Well, puzzling for sure, because even when he tells something directly, Elinor still can not guess if it is the truth or not. And till the end of the book, his life remains a secret to us.
2. the dynamics. The story is fast-paced, something is always happening, and characters are traveling around and going to different interesting places.
3. the story. In this book, the main story is the investigation of a death of an unidentified male, and Madame Chalamet is called to talk to his ghost to learn more about him. Which she does, of course, and the search for the culprit begins. There are also multiple mysterious plot lines - concerning both Elinor and Duke's lives. And that made the book even more interesting because the author does not give a lot of information about these cases, just several details that spark curiosity.
Content warnings: the story includes death and one mid-graphic scene.
Overall opinion: Since the moment I read the book description I knew I was going to like it. And I did, a lot! The story is interesting, the characters are likable and their lives are intriguing. There is still so much to learn about Elinor and Tristan. I don't know if there is going to be a love story between the two of them later in the series, but I really appreciated that it was not in this book. I liked how their relationship developed from suspicion and mistrust to understanding and respect. Overall, a great story. Definitely would be looking forward to reading the next book.
Me, when I saw the title and read the book description: "I see it, I like it, I want it, … I got it" ©
The plot: Elinor Chalamet is a jeweler's daughter, a medium helping people, and a Ghost Talker, who occasionally helps police with their investigations. But this new case must be something extraordinary as Tristan Fontaine, Duke de Archambeau, is present at the morgue, especially since he does not believe in talking to ghosts. So, why does he want a Ghost Talker there?
What I didn't like:
Bear in mind, these are not things that I disliked, but the little suggestion which might have made my reading experience more pleasant.
There is this thing that confused me - the time period of events. Since women wear corsets, travel with coaches driven by horses, and Dr. Charlotte LaRue is able to work in the morgue - I would assume it is sometime in the 19th century. But at the same time, the way the characters speak (except addresses to people) and behave made me think it is modern days. Anyway, it is just my confusion.
Another thing is more of a recommendation - to put the cast of characters and helpful information at the beginning of the book. At first, I struggled to understand geography especially, and since I was reading an e-book, I did not check the table of contents, so when I saw the information about countries at the end of the book I was like - I wish I knew that earlier. But again, this one is on me.
What I liked:
1. the characters. The main characters are well-written. Madame Chalamet arouses admiration for being a strong smart woman, a professional in her field and also in jewelry (which she learned from her father), who is independent and makes her own living. Duke de Archambeau is sort of a typical male - dark, tall, and mysterious 😉 Well, puzzling for sure, because even when he tells something directly, Elinor still can not guess if it is the truth or not. And till the end of the book, his life remains a secret to us.
2. the dynamics. The story is fast-paced, something is always happening, and characters are traveling around and going to different interesting places.
3. the story. In this book, the main story is the investigation of a death of an unidentified male, and Madame Chalamet is called to talk to his ghost to learn more about him. Which she does, of course, and the search for the culprit begins. There are also multiple mysterious plot lines - concerning both Elinor and Duke's lives. And that made the book even more interesting because the author does not give a lot of information about these cases, just several details that spark curiosity.
Content warnings: the story includes death and one mid-graphic scene.
Overall opinion: Since the moment I read the book description I knew I was going to like it. And I did, a lot! The story is interesting, the characters are likable and their lives are intriguing. There is still so much to learn about Elinor and Tristan. I don't know if there is going to be a love story between the two of them later in the series, but I really appreciated that it was not in this book. I liked how their relationship developed from suspicion and mistrust to understanding and respect. Overall, a great story. Definitely would be looking forward to reading the next book.
January 29, 2023
I will begin by thanking NetGalley and Rook and Castle Press for the opportunity to read "Ghost Talker".
In this book we follow Madame Elinor Chalamet as she's requested to conduct a ghost talking by the Duke de Archambeau (Tristan Fountaine) entourage in the hopes of solving an issue of great national importance!
CW: murder, drug addiction
I must say..this novella was a delight! ^^ Byrd Nash managed to evoque the 1900s France pretty well! We got A LOT of world building for 141 pages,as my ipad showed...not only we get the current state of affairs in this country( Sarnesse), but also a pretty great description of Alenbonné - the city in which all the action takes place! We get some idea about the society without actually spending that much time describing stuff, and a richer introduction in what exactly is ghost talking and how our MC got into it!
This story is mainly a mystery-thriller with an undertone of romance.
I loved our main character and her way of approaching different kind of people! Loved how she's described, her way of talking and her wit! We also got a nice supporting cast, with the Duke, of course, leading the show! :)))
In terms of the actual plot, I believe we have a great start to the story, as we have Chalamet goal of finding her father's killer. We have a good mistery with some other's showing their heads at different times...the fact that all those mysteries are ghost-related is only a bonus! Cannot wait to find out more when it comes to Minette and papa Chalamet! I'm also very curious if we'll get more political stuff in future instalments... Jaques and the King were pretty interesting..not to mention the student riots and the tense relationship we have with the state of Perino by the end of this book...hopefully we see more!
The story is tightly written, which show how well the authors rules this area; I can definitely say that every character was well portrayed, regardless of how minor a role they played, and the paranormal/fantastical side of this was really well done! (I love when authors impose a set of rules when it comes to the fantastical side of their work! Makes everything more interesting...)
Overall, this novella was a great entry in a mystery series with some romance along the way! I highly recommend trying Byrd Nash if you enjoy ghost stories, slow-burn romance and historical settings!
Enjoy
In this book we follow Madame Elinor Chalamet as she's requested to conduct a ghost talking by the Duke de Archambeau (Tristan Fountaine) entourage in the hopes of solving an issue of great national importance!
CW: murder, drug addiction
I must say..this novella was a delight! ^^ Byrd Nash managed to evoque the 1900s France pretty well! We got A LOT of world building for 141 pages,as my ipad showed...not only we get the current state of affairs in this country( Sarnesse), but also a pretty great description of Alenbonné - the city in which all the action takes place! We get some idea about the society without actually spending that much time describing stuff, and a richer introduction in what exactly is ghost talking and how our MC got into it!
This story is mainly a mystery-thriller with an undertone of romance.
I loved our main character and her way of approaching different kind of people! Loved how she's described, her way of talking and her wit! We also got a nice supporting cast, with the Duke, of course, leading the show! :)))
In terms of the actual plot, I believe we have a great start to the story, as we have Chalamet goal of finding her father's killer. We have a good mistery with some other's showing their heads at different times...the fact that all those mysteries are ghost-related is only a bonus! Cannot wait to find out more when it comes to Minette and papa Chalamet! I'm also very curious if we'll get more political stuff in future instalments... Jaques and the King were pretty interesting..not to mention the student riots and the tense relationship we have with the state of Perino by the end of this book...hopefully we see more!
The story is tightly written, which show how well the authors rules this area; I can definitely say that every character was well portrayed, regardless of how minor a role they played, and the paranormal/fantastical side of this was really well done! (I love when authors impose a set of rules when it comes to the fantastical side of their work! Makes everything more interesting...)
Overall, this novella was a great entry in a mystery series with some romance along the way! I highly recommend trying Byrd Nash if you enjoy ghost stories, slow-burn romance and historical settings!
Enjoy
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