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Dark Regency #1
The Haunting of a Duke
Facing danger from both sides of the grave, will two souls merge to find a love that conquers all?
Communing with spirits has been both gift and curse to Emme Walters. Now it's made her a killer's target. Emme knows why the Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh invited her to a house party--to investigate whether the duke, Rhys Brammel, murdered his wife years ago. But Emme never imagined she would fall in love with the brooding duke.
Branded by society as a possible killer, Rhys is suspicious of Emme and her alleged "gift." Then a late night encounter creates awareness of her other, more attractive, aspects. When Emme's life is threatened, Rhys becomes her protector.
Emme and Rhys find passion and peril as they join forces to solve the mysteries at Briarleigh. She made him believe in spirits, but can she make him believe in love?
Communing with spirits has been both gift and curse to Emme Walters. Now it's made her a killer's target. Emme knows why the Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh invited her to a house party--to investigate whether the duke, Rhys Brammel, murdered his wife years ago. But Emme never imagined she would fall in love with the brooding duke.
Branded by society as a possible killer, Rhys is suspicious of Emme and her alleged "gift." Then a late night encounter creates awareness of her other, more attractive, aspects. When Emme's life is threatened, Rhys becomes her protector.
Emme and Rhys find passion and peril as they join forces to solve the mysteries at Briarleigh. She made him believe in spirits, but can she make him believe in love?
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2012
1239 people are currently reading
2242 people want to read
About the author
Chasity Bowlin
142 books523 followersUSA Today Best Selling author and Winner of the 2019 Romance Through the Ages Award for Georgian/Regency Romance, Chasity Bowlin is the author multiple bestselling historical romance novels, both independently and with Dragonblade Publishing. She lives in central Kentucky with her husband and their menagerie of animals. She loves writing, loves traveling and enjoys incorporating tidbits of her actual vacations into her books. She is an avid Anglophile, loving all things British, but specifically all things Regency.
Growing up in Tennessee, spending as much time as possible with her doting grandparents, soap operas were a part of her daily existence, followed by back to back episodes of Scooby Doo. Her path to becoming a romance novelist was set when, rather than simply have her Barbie dolls cruise around in a pink convertible, they time traveled, hosted lavish dinner parties and one even had an evil twin locked in the attic.
Growing up in Tennessee, spending as much time as possible with her doting grandparents, soap operas were a part of her daily existence, followed by back to back episodes of Scooby Doo. Her path to becoming a romance novelist was set when, rather than simply have her Barbie dolls cruise around in a pink convertible, they time traveled, hosted lavish dinner parties and one even had an evil twin locked in the attic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 358 reviews
April 2, 2021
4.75 steamy mysterious stars
Emmaline Walters ("Emme") has a "gift," though she considers it more of a curse on most occasions. Since she can remember, she can commune with spirits when they seek her out. Recently, she assisted in solving a murder when she was asked to help solve a mystery, and now she is at best, a novelty and fascination; at worst, a charlatan and oddity. As a result of her "unusual skill," she has been invited to a house party hosted by the Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh as the woman hopes that Emme can clear her son of his wife's untimely death. But when Emme arrives and meets the duke, she discovers that she is drawn to him despite his dark reputation, and even without consulting the spirits of the manor, she doesn't believe he had anything to do with the situation that led to his current widower status. As she learns more about the mysteries that cast Briarleigh in dark shadows, Emme is sucked into the devastating loss of the duke's sister twenty years ago via the spirits appearing to her and through her when she's both asleep and awake; as she learns that the death of his former wife and his sister were perpetrated by the same person.
Rhys Brammel, the current Duke of Briarleigh, has been labeled a murderer. Though he had no love for his philandering and spiteful former wife, he did not cause her demise. Fortunately, Rhys cares nothing for what society believes; unfortunately, his mother does and has invited a woman to their family seat who can commune with spirits to exonerate him. Of all the ridiculous ideas... But when he meets Emme and learns more about her, he realizes she isn't trying to sell anyone on her abilities, and though he is still dubious (to say the least) as to whether or not her "gift" is real, he finds himself unable to resist her kindness, innocence, and beauty.
When Emme and Rhys are caught together after he follows her during one of her "sleepwalking episodes," he knows he must do the right thing, but after such a horrendous experience with his first wife, can Rhys possibly open his heart and trust to any other woman, especially one whose unusual "talents" may nor may not be genuine? What will happen when Emme's abilities place her in danger from the mysterious killer that snuffed out the duke's young sister's life so prematurely and ended his former wife's reign of debauchery? Can Rhys and Emme discover the dark secrets before it's too late?
What I liked:
--- Very likeable main characters - Emme was sweet & Rhys was def swoon-worthy!
--- Mostly fast-moving plot with the mystery unfolding around the developing romance
--- Really bad villain(s) - wow. Even the ones who were "innocent" of the major crimes were pretty awful - hate to love situations that made you root for the mcs even more
--- STEAMY GOODNESS (early, meaning before the 50% mark, and often!)
What I didn't like as much:
--- There was more build-up than I would have liked, which dragged it a little bit, but really that is my only complaint
--- Not something I disliked, but I want to point out that there is a major trigger that people should be aware of if they have been or are close with victims of child abuse bc it is pretty rough (see below under "violence" for that info)
I have read this one at least 4 times now - just such an entertaining tale with some believable supernatural forces at work. Really strong character development; interesting mystery; and strong romance.
Plot --- 4.75/5
Main Charac2ters --- 4.75/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3.75/5 (several very steamy scenes nothing BDSM-related or overly graphic in my opinion)
Violence --- possible triggers
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
Emmaline Walters ("Emme") has a "gift," though she considers it more of a curse on most occasions. Since she can remember, she can commune with spirits when they seek her out. Recently, she assisted in solving a murder when she was asked to help solve a mystery, and now she is at best, a novelty and fascination; at worst, a charlatan and oddity. As a result of her "unusual skill," she has been invited to a house party hosted by the Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh as the woman hopes that Emme can clear her son of his wife's untimely death. But when Emme arrives and meets the duke, she discovers that she is drawn to him despite his dark reputation, and even without consulting the spirits of the manor, she doesn't believe he had anything to do with the situation that led to his current widower status. As she learns more about the mysteries that cast Briarleigh in dark shadows, Emme is sucked into the devastating loss of the duke's sister twenty years ago via the spirits appearing to her and through her when she's both asleep and awake; as she learns that the death of his former wife and his sister were perpetrated by the same person.
Rhys Brammel, the current Duke of Briarleigh, has been labeled a murderer. Though he had no love for his philandering and spiteful former wife, he did not cause her demise. Fortunately, Rhys cares nothing for what society believes; unfortunately, his mother does and has invited a woman to their family seat who can commune with spirits to exonerate him. Of all the ridiculous ideas... But when he meets Emme and learns more about her, he realizes she isn't trying to sell anyone on her abilities, and though he is still dubious (to say the least) as to whether or not her "gift" is real, he finds himself unable to resist her kindness, innocence, and beauty.
When Emme and Rhys are caught together after he follows her during one of her "sleepwalking episodes," he knows he must do the right thing, but after such a horrendous experience with his first wife, can Rhys possibly open his heart and trust to any other woman, especially one whose unusual "talents" may nor may not be genuine? What will happen when Emme's abilities place her in danger from the mysterious killer that snuffed out the duke's young sister's life so prematurely and ended his former wife's reign of debauchery? Can Rhys and Emme discover the dark secrets before it's too late?
What I liked:
--- Very likeable main characters - Emme was sweet & Rhys was def swoon-worthy!
--- Mostly fast-moving plot with the mystery unfolding around the developing romance
--- Really bad villain(s) - wow. Even the ones who were "innocent" of the major crimes were pretty awful - hate to love situations that made you root for the mcs even more
--- STEAMY GOODNESS (early, meaning before the 50% mark, and often!)
What I didn't like as much:
--- There was more build-up than I would have liked, which dragged it a little bit, but really that is my only complaint
--- Not something I disliked, but I want to point out that there is a major trigger that people should be aware of if they have been or are close with victims of child abuse bc it is pretty rough (see below under "violence" for that info)
I have read this one at least 4 times now - just such an entertaining tale with some believable supernatural forces at work. Really strong character development; interesting mystery; and strong romance.
Plot --- 4.75/5
Main Charac2ters --- 4.75/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3.75/5 (several very steamy scenes nothing BDSM-related or overly graphic in my opinion)
Violence --- possible triggers
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
October 6, 2022
I really enjoyed this book it is the first book in a series that the author recommends reading in order. The Mystical, sexual tension and mystery really held me all the way through the book. Beware this book is very steamy. I could believe in the insta attraction that I have found difficult in other books. The characters were well drawn and that the twists and turns tie up the story nicely at the end.
May 20, 2022
5 Stars on a re-read as well
Wow! That was unexpectedly great. Generally, I stay away from all things paranormal because I am a scaredy-cat. But my first foray into the gothic was surprisingly enjoyable, to say the least. This story was like an adult, romantic version of Nancy Drew, but with sinister plots and things that go bump in the night, literally & figuratively.
Cards on the table, this book has a fair number of triggers, but I would be remiss if I did not highlight that the author has managed them well. Though cringy, they did not put me off of the book, the villain most definitely, but not the story.
Content Warnings:
- Ghosts/ spirits
- Multiple murders (one on-page, three referenced in the past, others were alluded to)
- Multiple murder attempts
- Child rape (mentioned, not described on the page, or I would have shut the book then and there)
- Sexual abuse (alluded to)
- Violent insanity
- Step parental abuse
Quick Review
- This was my first Chasity Bowlin. It was captivatingly written.
- The mystery was quite mysterious. When I read it the first time, I could not guess the villain, but the second time around, the clues were there right from the beginning. If you are reading it for the first time, pay close attention.
- Very few authors manage to balance the drama with the romance, and Ms Bowlin is one of them.
- The evolution & development of the plot & the characters was deftly, intelligently, and subtly handled. None of it is overwhelming, as it teases you enough to pique your curiosity & inquisitiveness.
- Emme & Rhys were a lovely couple. They had their differences, but they had some similarities, and their relationship was drama-free as the drama surrounding them was enough. These two seemed like they could bridge the gap between the mystic (Emme) and the cynic (Rhys) and meet halfway through. Their simplicity & believability was noteworthy.
Special Mentions:
- Micheal
- The unique inter-character dynamics (every person had a singular undercurrent)
- Spence & Larissa
- Rhys's protectiveness without venturing into asshole
- Emme's quiet strength & deep-rooted beliefs
My Recommendation
This book opened me up to the mild gothic genre. The romance in this warms the proverbial wet blanket that was the murder mystery. My predominant reason to re-read this was to update myself for #2, but in part, it was because I found that I liked what it had to offer.
Wow! That was unexpectedly great. Generally, I stay away from all things paranormal because I am a scaredy-cat. But my first foray into the gothic was surprisingly enjoyable, to say the least. This story was like an adult, romantic version of Nancy Drew, but with sinister plots and things that go bump in the night, literally & figuratively.
Cards on the table, this book has a fair number of triggers, but I would be remiss if I did not highlight that the author has managed them well. Though cringy, they did not put me off of the book, the villain most definitely, but not the story.
Content Warnings:
- Ghosts/ spirits
- Multiple murders (one on-page, three referenced in the past, others were alluded to)
- Multiple murder attempts
- Child rape (mentioned, not described on the page, or I would have shut the book then and there)
- Sexual abuse (alluded to)
- Violent insanity
- Step parental abuse
Quick Review
- This was my first Chasity Bowlin. It was captivatingly written.
- The mystery was quite mysterious. When I read it the first time, I could not guess the villain, but the second time around, the clues were there right from the beginning. If you are reading it for the first time, pay close attention.
- Very few authors manage to balance the drama with the romance, and Ms Bowlin is one of them.
- The evolution & development of the plot & the characters was deftly, intelligently, and subtly handled. None of it is overwhelming, as it teases you enough to pique your curiosity & inquisitiveness.
- Emme & Rhys were a lovely couple. They had their differences, but they had some similarities, and their relationship was drama-free as the drama surrounding them was enough. These two seemed like they could bridge the gap between the mystic (Emme) and the cynic (Rhys) and meet halfway through. Their simplicity & believability was noteworthy.
Special Mentions:
- Micheal
- The unique inter-character dynamics (every person had a singular undercurrent)
- Spence & Larissa
- Rhys's protectiveness without venturing into asshole
- Emme's quiet strength & deep-rooted beliefs
My Recommendation
This book opened me up to the mild gothic genre. The romance in this warms the proverbial wet blanket that was the murder mystery. My predominant reason to re-read this was to update myself for #2, but in part, it was because I found that I liked what it had to offer.
October 4, 2022
3.75
Ghost stories never make sense - People should be running away scared and not engaging them - at least not in a real logical world. Okay, the story would be dead on arrival then.
But still, how can they take these visitings especially by malignant spirits and carry on normally with their days - and nights?
Two murders but the house party does not disband?
Several attempts on the h's life?
Nope, nothing fazes these people.
But all said, it's an intriguing and thrill-a-minute plot.
Ghost stories never make sense - People should be running away scared and not engaging them - at least not in a real logical world. Okay, the story would be dead on arrival then.
But still, how can they take these visitings especially by malignant spirits and carry on normally with their days - and nights?
Two murders but the house party does not disband?
Several attempts on the h's life?
Nope, nothing fazes these people.
But all said, it's an intriguing and thrill-a-minute plot.
July 27, 2014
Holy hell. Can I give this book six stars? Paranormal meets Historical plus romance? This genre match up is one of the most genius things I've ever read. (Paranormal and Historical are my favorite genres) After reading what the book was about, I knew instantly that I would enjoy it, but I honestly loved it way more than I thought I would, which is really saying something. This book is beyond fantastic and definitely one of the best books I've read all year.
The story is haunting and beautiful, dark, gritty and sexy, written in a lovely flowing way. It also has a fair share of mystery and suspense- an aspect that keeps your eyes glued to the pages and on the edge of your seat. It's a unique adventure with two great main characters that have quite interesting lives/pasts. I loved that Emme was a feisty medium. She has such spark despite all she has been through and all that rests on her shoulders. She made a fitting match for Rhys. The Duke is so swoon worthy and mysterious. The pair comes together in an unexpected way and I loved every second of it. Waiting was totally worth it as sparks flew with their chemistry. Throw in a good dose of sexy and sweet for all a romance lover could ever need in a story.
I haven't read many novels that fall under the Regency category, but after enjoying this one so much and being very intrigued, I will have to pick up some more! That is, after I get my hands on book two in this series!
If you are a fan of Paranormal and Historical romance, buy this book now!
The story is haunting and beautiful, dark, gritty and sexy, written in a lovely flowing way. It also has a fair share of mystery and suspense- an aspect that keeps your eyes glued to the pages and on the edge of your seat. It's a unique adventure with two great main characters that have quite interesting lives/pasts. I loved that Emme was a feisty medium. She has such spark despite all she has been through and all that rests on her shoulders. She made a fitting match for Rhys. The Duke is so swoon worthy and mysterious. The pair comes together in an unexpected way and I loved every second of it. Waiting was totally worth it as sparks flew with their chemistry. Throw in a good dose of sexy and sweet for all a romance lover could ever need in a story.
I haven't read many novels that fall under the Regency category, but after enjoying this one so much and being very intrigued, I will have to pick up some more! That is, after I get my hands on book two in this series!
If you are a fan of Paranormal and Historical romance, buy this book now!
February 4, 2021
A supernatural mystery historical fiction romance - probably too many genres to effectively handle in one novel. While the characters were interesting, I did feel that some were more like caricatures and others were being overly developed (potentially for a series). The mystery would have been really good if that had been the major focus but the author tried to split her time developing the supernatural and romance sections equally. It ended up a mess. Certain scenes were repeats of earlier ones that didn’t add to the plot or characterization. There were paragraphs and sentences that repeated the same ideas...sometimes on the same page. Sadly, this was much longer than it needed to be. It might have been better if she plotted out the mystery first, then added the supernatural and romance aspects to punctuate the mystery. Instead it felt like the story was being driven by multiple people, all fighting over the steering wheel. On top of all that, there were SO many mistakes in grammar, punctuation and historical accuracy. I was distracted by the errors and it made me feel like I was reading a story written by my creative writing students. Sigh, disappointed in this one.
May 22, 2022
Well, as mystery goes, this one was not very mysterious. Only an idiot could not see the villains for what they were. But as I often think that and then later pay for it by being an idiot myself after discovering how wrong I was, I am not sure I am happy that I was for once right in my suspicions. Was it too easy to deduct? Mystery is not really entertaining if it is.
The romance was nice but much too lusty for my tastes. I swear half or more of the book was dedicated to their sexual relationship. It got to a point where I was almost skimming, and I never do that! So yeah, if that is a side that you enjoy more than the plot, this book is definitely for you.
But other important thing is that you need to be okay with the paranormal. Talks of ghost and the like is heavily explored.
One thing that irrited me greatly was some writing flaws like forgetting a character was in the scene, saying a name when it was meant another, saying a few weeks or days passed and in the next scene they talk of things that happened as yesterday but in reality should be weeks or days ago. Things like that was a pity and irritating to a perfectionist.
I was expecting more of this book with so many people I know giving it a 5 star but I didn't think it anything super great. Although I will continue the series and see where it takes me.
The romance was nice but much too lusty for my tastes. I swear half or more of the book was dedicated to their sexual relationship. It got to a point where I was almost skimming, and I never do that! So yeah, if that is a side that you enjoy more than the plot, this book is definitely for you.
But other important thing is that you need to be okay with the paranormal. Talks of ghost and the like is heavily explored.
One thing that irrited me greatly was some writing flaws like forgetting a character was in the scene, saying a name when it was meant another, saying a few weeks or days passed and in the next scene they talk of things that happened as yesterday but in reality should be weeks or days ago. Things like that was a pity and irritating to a perfectionist.
I was expecting more of this book with so many people I know giving it a 5 star but I didn't think it anything super great. Although I will continue the series and see where it takes me.
August 12, 2015
HEART WARMING STORY OF LOVE AND BETRAYAL!!
I loved The Haunting of a Duke, the story of Rhys Brammel the Duke of Briarleigh and the Emme Walters, Medium and Mystic was fast paced, slightly erotic highly sensual and loving with on the edge of your seat action.
Emme is invited to Briarwood Hall for the summer garden party by the Dowager Duchess Phyllis Brammel. She wants Emme to find out what actually happen to her deceased daughter in law Elise, becasue there are rumors that her son the Duke might have murdered her.
Rhys knows of Emme's reputation and is very skeptical at first. When Emme describes her encounter with Rhys deceased sister Melisande, he starts to believe there are unexplained phenomenons on this earth. The target death of Melisande at such an early age causes Rhys and his best friend Michael Ellensleigh who loved Melisande to seek out answers to her death. You discover very quickly who the responsible parties are, but the why is not discovered until the end of the story. The childhood love story of Michael and Melisande will have you in tears. The characters, back story and the plot were all very well written and developed. I Highly Recommend The Haunting of a Duke.
I loved The Haunting of a Duke, the story of Rhys Brammel the Duke of Briarleigh and the Emme Walters, Medium and Mystic was fast paced, slightly erotic highly sensual and loving with on the edge of your seat action.
Emme is invited to Briarwood Hall for the summer garden party by the Dowager Duchess Phyllis Brammel. She wants Emme to find out what actually happen to her deceased daughter in law Elise, becasue there are rumors that her son the Duke might have murdered her.
Rhys knows of Emme's reputation and is very skeptical at first. When Emme describes her encounter with Rhys deceased sister Melisande, he starts to believe there are unexplained phenomenons on this earth. The target death of Melisande at such an early age causes Rhys and his best friend Michael Ellensleigh who loved Melisande to seek out answers to her death. You discover very quickly who the responsible parties are, but the why is not discovered until the end of the story. The childhood love story of Michael and Melisande will have you in tears. The characters, back story and the plot were all very well written and developed. I Highly Recommend The Haunting of a Duke.
October 6, 2025
REVIEW
Rating: 3.5
POV: 3rd, dual
Tropes: HR - Gothic, suspenseful; Forced Marriage (compromised); Found Family
Heat Level: 5/5
Kinks: N/A
Likes:
* Even though the villain was very obvious the uniqueness to the plot with Emmes gift was great
* I liked that Rhys was Emmes protector from day 1
Dislikes:
* got a bit boring at times and the villain being so obvious.
Conclusion:
Nice gothic HR and I’m looking forward to reading this series. It’s not gothic in the sense that the “house” is holding secrets but more in the sense that there are actual ghosts and they visit and speak with the FMC, Emme. Having ghosts in an HR did make the story feel more paranormal suspense but I can see how it’s viewed as a gothic as well.
I enjoyed the found family aspect of the story. Emme quickly gets welcomed in Rhys friends and in his home (except for one individual).
Even though there are 5 open door scenes they did feel like they were lacking. I only mention this since it seems to be a big deal for the story that the book has 🌶️.
3.5/5
Rating: 3.5
POV: 3rd, dual
Tropes: HR - Gothic, suspenseful; Forced Marriage (compromised); Found Family
Heat Level: 5/5
Kinks: N/A
Likes:
* Even though the villain was very obvious the uniqueness to the plot with Emmes gift was great
* I liked that Rhys was Emmes protector from day 1
Dislikes:
* got a bit boring at times and the villain being so obvious.
Conclusion:
Nice gothic HR and I’m looking forward to reading this series. It’s not gothic in the sense that the “house” is holding secrets but more in the sense that there are actual ghosts and they visit and speak with the FMC, Emme. Having ghosts in an HR did make the story feel more paranormal suspense but I can see how it’s viewed as a gothic as well.
I enjoyed the found family aspect of the story. Emme quickly gets welcomed in Rhys friends and in his home (except for one individual).
Even though there are 5 open door scenes they did feel like they were lacking. I only mention this since it seems to be a big deal for the story that the book has 🌶️.
3.5/5
February 17, 2021
This was between okay to good. 3 1/2 stars.
I did wish the h and hr would have put their lust aside since their was a murderer who wanted to kill the hr.- as another reviewer pointed out.
It was still a good mystery with a nice romance.
Sidenote: the author doesn't ever address that an innocent man was blamed for the killing of a fake psychic. Hope he was freed.
I did wish the h and hr would have put their lust aside since their was a murderer who wanted to kill the hr.- as another reviewer pointed out.
It was still a good mystery with a nice romance.
Sidenote: the author doesn't ever address that an innocent man was blamed for the killing of a fake psychic. Hope he was freed.
January 23, 2018
Emme and Rhys
Emmaline "Emme" Walters is invited to Briarwood Hall to commune with the ghost of Lord Rhys Brammel's, Duke of Briarwood, late wife, Elise. It is rumored that Rhys murdered Elise. Emme doesn't like to admit to people that she corresponds with ghost. When Lord Michael Ellersleigh questions Emme about talking to no one in the gardens, she admits to talking to Melisande, whom she later discovers is Rhys murdered sister. From Melisande Emme finds out there were two murders and the murderer still lives. When Rhys learns of Emme conversation with Melisande, though he is not a believer in spirits, he never the less feels he must protect Emme. Can they fight the attraction they feel for each other? Will Emme uncover who the murderer is before it's too late?
This novel is a paranormal romance with a dark villain. We know that this villain is jealous and vengeful from the start. We begin to know who he is by the clues Emme and Rhys uncover along the way. The attraction between Emme and Rhys is strong. The sex scenes are blended nicely into the storyline. They are tastefully written. The plot has a twist or two which keeps the reader reading the story. Some of the subplots are left unresolved. I look forward to the next book in the trilogy.
Emmaline "Emme" Walters is invited to Briarwood Hall to commune with the ghost of Lord Rhys Brammel's, Duke of Briarwood, late wife, Elise. It is rumored that Rhys murdered Elise. Emme doesn't like to admit to people that she corresponds with ghost. When Lord Michael Ellersleigh questions Emme about talking to no one in the gardens, she admits to talking to Melisande, whom she later discovers is Rhys murdered sister. From Melisande Emme finds out there were two murders and the murderer still lives. When Rhys learns of Emme conversation with Melisande, though he is not a believer in spirits, he never the less feels he must protect Emme. Can they fight the attraction they feel for each other? Will Emme uncover who the murderer is before it's too late?
This novel is a paranormal romance with a dark villain. We know that this villain is jealous and vengeful from the start. We begin to know who he is by the clues Emme and Rhys uncover along the way. The attraction between Emme and Rhys is strong. The sex scenes are blended nicely into the storyline. They are tastefully written. The plot has a twist or two which keeps the reader reading the story. Some of the subplots are left unresolved. I look forward to the next book in the trilogy.
August 5, 2016
I believe this is the first book I've read by Chastity Bowlin, but it certainly won't be the last. I do not normally care for paranormal books, but this combination of paranormal and historical is just perfect and I'm so glad I decided to give it a read. I assume it is considered paranormal because the heroine can converse with ghosts. I'm heading to Amazon just as soon as I finish this review to buy the other two books in the series!!!!
You certainly have an engaging and odd mixture of characters contained within the pages! There is a young girl who was murdered, a psychic, a Duke who many think murdered his wife, a mother who is strange, the villains (of course), a jackaxx of step-father, a sister who can see the future (but it isn't showcased in this book) and wonderful supportive friends. What more could you ask for?
Emme is invited, by the dowager Duchess, to a house party at the estate of Rhys, Duke of Briarleigh. The dowager Duchess wants Emme to use her talents to determine the facts surrounding the death of her daughter-in-law. Emme doesn't like to be the center of attention and tries to downplay her talents. However, if the ghosts present themselves, she feels she cannot ignore them and must pass on whatever information she is given.
The ghosts present themselves almost immediately and cause Emme to be found in a compromising position. She has been sleep walking and is in absolutely nothing but her thin night rail. When she 'comes to', she doesn't know where she is or how to get back to her room. Luckily Rhys sees her and manages to get her back to her room without anyone else being aware.
Rhys is very skeptical and doubting of Emme and would love to show her as a charlatan. However, whenever Emme's life is in danger, Rhys becomes her protector.
Rhys and Emme -- along with Rhys' friends, Lord Michael Sutherland, Viscount Ellersleigh, and Spencer, Lord Wolverston -- manage to solve multiple murders while Rhys and Emme fall in love.
I'm looking forward to the next two books in the series!
You certainly have an engaging and odd mixture of characters contained within the pages! There is a young girl who was murdered, a psychic, a Duke who many think murdered his wife, a mother who is strange, the villains (of course), a jackaxx of step-father, a sister who can see the future (but it isn't showcased in this book) and wonderful supportive friends. What more could you ask for?
Emme is invited, by the dowager Duchess, to a house party at the estate of Rhys, Duke of Briarleigh. The dowager Duchess wants Emme to use her talents to determine the facts surrounding the death of her daughter-in-law. Emme doesn't like to be the center of attention and tries to downplay her talents. However, if the ghosts present themselves, she feels she cannot ignore them and must pass on whatever information she is given.
The ghosts present themselves almost immediately and cause Emme to be found in a compromising position. She has been sleep walking and is in absolutely nothing but her thin night rail. When she 'comes to', she doesn't know where she is or how to get back to her room. Luckily Rhys sees her and manages to get her back to her room without anyone else being aware.
Rhys is very skeptical and doubting of Emme and would love to show her as a charlatan. However, whenever Emme's life is in danger, Rhys becomes her protector.
Rhys and Emme -- along with Rhys' friends, Lord Michael Sutherland, Viscount Ellersleigh, and Spencer, Lord Wolverston -- manage to solve multiple murders while Rhys and Emme fall in love.
I'm looking forward to the next two books in the series!
April 25, 2016
Quite a few reviews for this book said it was formulaic, and I would have to agree. It started out quite well, with four villains vying for the role as "Col. Mustard in the drawing room with the candlestick." Unfortunately, by the middle I had it all figured out, but still kept reading just to make sure. Chastity Bowlin does a decent job creating different types of despicable characters, so part of the reason to keep turning pages is to see them get their comeuppance.
Probably my biggest issue with this book was that Rhys was no hero. He kept talking about keeping Emme out of danger, but never really carried through. At one point he and his two buddies went to search the tunnels under the house, leaving Emme to her own devices....and (gasp!) the murderer came after her. On page 341: "Rhys had decided it was best to have his potential enemy where he could keep an eye on him." Really? Rhys was without cunning, deductive reasoning or even the insight to be at the right place at the right time.
The part of the story that trotted along briskly was the relationship between Rhys and Emme. The Duke does get points for recognizing pretty quickly he likes this girl and moving to secure her in his life. There were several spicy scenes, but I didn't find them particularly swoon-worthy. What stagnated was the murder mystery plot. At 83% Emma and Rhys are still dealing with the same basic clues unearthed in the beginning. The plot just didn't move forward. Even the ghostly spirits weren't all that creative or menacing.
Probably my biggest issue with this book was that Rhys was no hero. He kept talking about keeping Emme out of danger, but never really carried through. At one point he and his two buddies went to search the tunnels under the house, leaving Emme to her own devices....and (gasp!) the murderer came after her. On page 341: "Rhys had decided it was best to have his potential enemy where he could keep an eye on him." Really? Rhys was without cunning, deductive reasoning or even the insight to be at the right place at the right time.
The part of the story that trotted along briskly was the relationship between Rhys and Emme. The Duke does get points for recognizing pretty quickly he likes this girl and moving to secure her in his life. There were several spicy scenes, but I didn't find them particularly swoon-worthy. What stagnated was the murder mystery plot. At 83% Emma and Rhys are still dealing with the same basic clues unearthed in the beginning. The plot just didn't move forward. Even the ghostly spirits weren't all that creative or menacing.
November 10, 2019
Started off really good, but I hate pregnancy in my romance so that made me Ehh around 70%, and the villainy in the plot got reaaaally dark. like, trigger warning for murder of and sexual abuse of a child dark, so.
Read
October 28, 2024I've chosen not to rate this book because I'm not a dark romance reader, and my complaints are that this book is dark. 🤣 I would hate to hurt the rating of this book because it wasn't my cup of tea. It would be like slamming a book for having hockey in it because I don't like hockey, but knew quite well that it was a hockey book going into it.
The dark parts turned me off. I enjoyed the mystery and actual hauntings, which are thin on the ground in historical romance. The romance didn't feel quite compelling enough to me. And the characters could have been fleshed out a smidge more.
Interestingly, the most compelling characters to me weren't the main characters, but Michael and the ghost of the girl he loved so long ago. Turns out that Michael's book, which is book two, was actually the first book she wrote! I can totally see that, as I wanted much more of Michael.
Speaking of her first book, THIS book is the first one Bowlin ever published (under the name Chasity Bowlin). Pretty darn good for a first book!
Trigger warnings: rape (before story begins), murder (before AND during story), suffocation, gun shot through the head, shooting, voyeurism, pedophilia
The dark parts turned me off. I enjoyed the mystery and actual hauntings, which are thin on the ground in historical romance. The romance didn't feel quite compelling enough to me. And the characters could have been fleshed out a smidge more.
Interestingly, the most compelling characters to me weren't the main characters, but Michael and the ghost of the girl he loved so long ago. Turns out that Michael's book, which is book two, was actually the first book she wrote! I can totally see that, as I wanted much more of Michael.
Speaking of her first book, THIS book is the first one Bowlin ever published (under the name Chasity Bowlin). Pretty darn good for a first book!
Trigger warnings: rape (before story begins), murder (before AND during story), suffocation, gun shot through the head, shooting, voyeurism, pedophilia
May 24, 2015
*currently available for kindle for free*
I was browsing the free kindle books at amazon, and stumbled across this one. I thought the premise of this sounded intriguing as it mixes several genres I enjoy: Historical, Paranormal, and Romance. Kindles freebies, in my experience, are more often miss that hit, but every once in awhile you find a gem.
This is one of those.
Emme, our heroine, has a gift: She can see spirits. She is asked to come to a house party by the Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh to ascertain if her son, The Duke, is guilty of murdering his late wife, a death which officially was declared a suicide. Rhys, our Duke, is, of course, suspicious of Emme and her gift, and for her part, Emme wants no part of her gift. Or at least not to capitalize/profit from it.
That's not much of a synopsis, but any more than that, and we get into spoiler territory.
I really enjoyed this book. It's by turns creepy, and sexy, and funny, and heartbreaking. It has this really cool gothic feel to it that really just amps up the atmosphere.
I thought the two leads, Emme and Rhys, were very well written, well-balanced characters. The attraction between the two is instantaneous, but yet there's this marvelous slow burn between them that makes the eventual consummation of their relationship all the more satisfying. (No pun intended.) The two end up having to get married due to getting caught in a compromising situation, and if you've followed me for any length of time, you'll know this is a trope I enjoy, though I have no idea why.
Anyway...I really loved the fact that there was no Big Misunderstanding that separated our couple. I loathe those. So. Much. They were already both well on their way to falling in love with each other before they were married, and to watch their relationship progress was delightful. When they got together, they stayed together. And the author avoided some H/h character tropes I despise. He, while wanting to protect Emme from the threats she was facing, never veered off into high handed He-Man Alpha Male territory, and Emme never, ever veered into TSTL territory, and there was a moment in the book where she very well could have. I was so relived when the author chose not to go that route.
In addition to the love story, there was also the mystery of what really happened to Rhys' first wife as well as his sister, who was killed many years before.
The secondary characters were great (especially Michael, who is the lead of book two), and the villains were very, very creepy.
Ugh, and this review is not doing the book justice at all, for which I apologize.
I was browsing the free kindle books at amazon, and stumbled across this one. I thought the premise of this sounded intriguing as it mixes several genres I enjoy: Historical, Paranormal, and Romance. Kindles freebies, in my experience, are more often miss that hit, but every once in awhile you find a gem.
This is one of those.
Emme, our heroine, has a gift: She can see spirits. She is asked to come to a house party by the Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh to ascertain if her son, The Duke, is guilty of murdering his late wife, a death which officially was declared a suicide. Rhys, our Duke, is, of course, suspicious of Emme and her gift, and for her part, Emme wants no part of her gift. Or at least not to capitalize/profit from it.
That's not much of a synopsis, but any more than that, and we get into spoiler territory.
I really enjoyed this book. It's by turns creepy, and sexy, and funny, and heartbreaking. It has this really cool gothic feel to it that really just amps up the atmosphere.
I thought the two leads, Emme and Rhys, were very well written, well-balanced characters. The attraction between the two is instantaneous, but yet there's this marvelous slow burn between them that makes the eventual consummation of their relationship all the more satisfying. (No pun intended.) The two end up having to get married due to getting caught in a compromising situation, and if you've followed me for any length of time, you'll know this is a trope I enjoy, though I have no idea why.
Anyway...I really loved the fact that there was no Big Misunderstanding that separated our couple. I loathe those. So. Much. They were already both well on their way to falling in love with each other before they were married, and to watch their relationship progress was delightful. When they got together, they stayed together. And the author avoided some H/h character tropes I despise. He, while wanting to protect Emme from the threats she was facing, never veered off into high handed He-Man Alpha Male territory, and Emme never, ever veered into TSTL territory, and there was a moment in the book where she very well could have. I was so relived when the author chose not to go that route.
In addition to the love story, there was also the mystery of what really happened to Rhys' first wife as well as his sister, who was killed many years before.
The secondary characters were great (especially Michael, who is the lead of book two), and the villains were very, very creepy.
Ugh, and this review is not doing the book justice at all, for which I apologize.
March 18, 2016
4.5 stars! This historical romance thriller excites me from the start, with a paranormal scene (which foreshadowed a clue towards the investigation), heart thumping romance, steamy boudoir affairs, murder and investigation! The writing is good, the dialogs are quite interesting, the plot is engrossing enough to keep me up whole night **I so need a nap right now**.
I look forward to reading about the Duke's 2 best friends in next 2 books in the series, and more books by Chasity Bowlin. I also think that the Duchess' younger sister, who has a talent to foresee future, deserve a book for herself.
I look forward to reading about the Duke's 2 best friends in next 2 books in the series, and more books by Chasity Bowlin. I also think that the Duchess' younger sister, who has a talent to foresee future, deserve a book for herself.
April 8, 2017
Easy Read
Even though paranormal is not my preference, I liked the murder mystery story; but the writing style felt too easy.
Even though paranormal is not my preference, I liked the murder mystery story; but the writing style felt too easy.
Want to read
December 26, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/9/2019)! 🎁
September 30, 2016
***eBook available for free on Amazon***
The Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh invited Emmaline Walters to a house party to determine whether the duke had indeed killed his wife a few years ago and finally put the rumors to rest. But the late duchess isn't the only ghost in the house, and someone among the living will prove to be the most malevolent creature of all.
I'm having trouble rating this one. The story was great. The suspense, the mystery, the ghosts, the living, good and evil...all mixed up in this historical paranormal with a slight gothic vibe. But there were problems as well. First, it was the flowery prose during the sex scenes, which made me cringe a little. The second was the pacing, also suffering from the overabundance of sex scenes. They were hot and sensual, yes, but they also stopped the flow of the story.
The plot was so intense, with the vivid imagery of the manor and its wordly and non- inhabitants, the malevolent thoughts of the villain, goosebumps rose as the (almost) imminent danger, the intrigue of what would happen next beckoned...and the MCs decided to bang. *record scratch* Then, we were back in the gothic mood, the villain was lurking in the background, peeping through holes, imagining all kinds of dastardly things, then ghosts started to appear with warnings and taunts...and the MCs decided to bang again. *record scratch*
And so it went. The story flowing beautifully, the plot progressing nicely, with good character development, great mystery and suspense, and chilly apparitions, then it stopped dead in its track for some matress dancing, and then resumed.
It was jarring, since the love scenes seemed to be added as an afterthought, either to fill the pages or to...I don't know why. Again, they were well-written, but disruptive to the overall flow of the story.
3½ stars
The Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh invited Emmaline Walters to a house party to determine whether the duke had indeed killed his wife a few years ago and finally put the rumors to rest. But the late duchess isn't the only ghost in the house, and someone among the living will prove to be the most malevolent creature of all.
I'm having trouble rating this one. The story was great. The suspense, the mystery, the ghosts, the living, good and evil...all mixed up in this historical paranormal with a slight gothic vibe. But there were problems as well. First, it was the flowery prose during the sex scenes, which made me cringe a little. The second was the pacing, also suffering from the overabundance of sex scenes. They were hot and sensual, yes, but they also stopped the flow of the story.
The plot was so intense, with the vivid imagery of the manor and its wordly and non- inhabitants, the malevolent thoughts of the villain, goosebumps rose as the (almost) imminent danger, the intrigue of what would happen next beckoned...and the MCs decided to bang. *record scratch* Then, we were back in the gothic mood, the villain was lurking in the background, peeping through holes, imagining all kinds of dastardly things, then ghosts started to appear with warnings and taunts...and the MCs decided to bang again. *record scratch*
And so it went. The story flowing beautifully, the plot progressing nicely, with good character development, great mystery and suspense, and chilly apparitions, then it stopped dead in its track for some matress dancing, and then resumed.
It was jarring, since the love scenes seemed to be added as an afterthought, either to fill the pages or to...I don't know why. Again, they were well-written, but disruptive to the overall flow of the story.
3½ stars
January 25, 2016
3.8☆
Surprisingly, not terrible! I downloaded it because it was free on Amazon and I love me some historical romances. The 'supernatural' element added something special. It is essentially a whodunit story and I guessed what was going on about halfway through, but it didn't make it any less enjoyable to read. A lot of sexy times, a fair amount of creepiness, sometimes it was even chilling. Not too shabby for a freebie!
Surprisingly, not terrible! I downloaded it because it was free on Amazon and I love me some historical romances. The 'supernatural' element added something special. It is essentially a whodunit story and I guessed what was going on about halfway through, but it didn't make it any less enjoyable to read. A lot of sexy times, a fair amount of creepiness, sometimes it was even chilling. Not too shabby for a freebie!
January 30, 2023
I read the second book The Redemption of a Rogue first, which would’ve ruined the unveiling of the villain if I had a better memory. (the name is mentioned in that book) So, I wouldn’t recommend reading them out of order. :)
Much like the last (future) book I felt the actual romance took a backseat to the mystery… and the relationship is driven by lust. And this one has a supernatural/ghost situation. (the next book also has a ghost, but not it’s a small part of the plot)
Bottom Line- Ok read for me. It was a bit repetitive. I might’ve enjoyed it more had I not read it out of order, but I was in the mood for romance… and I just don't feel like this author really does a fleshed-out romance… so it might not have made a difference.
Much like the last (future) book I felt the actual romance took a backseat to the mystery… and the relationship is driven by lust. And this one has a supernatural/ghost situation. (the next book also has a ghost, but not it’s a small part of the plot)
Bottom Line- Ok read for me. It was a bit repetitive. I might’ve enjoyed it more had I not read it out of order, but I was in the mood for romance… and I just don't feel like this author really does a fleshed-out romance… so it might not have made a difference.
November 2, 2012
This was an absolutely fantastic read!!! Emme has a gift, one that she tends to hide from others. She can see and communicate with spirits. She does not capitalize on this particular gift, rather tries to help people with it. She built a reputation that was large enough to attract the attention of the 'ton', which is how our story begins. Emme is at a party at the personal invitation of the Lady Phyllis, for the use of her special skills to help put to rest the mystery surrounding the death of her son's wife. Emme didn't like being lumped in the same category as witches or mediums. They were fake and out to scam their way to a comfortable living, such as the great Madame Zuniga who was also at the party. The secrets that are buried within this particular house are thick, and the spirits that haunt this particular land are quite restless. They seek closure and Emme's appearance can offer more than she thinks is possible.
I really enjoyed this book. It was an accurate historical with some incredibly naughty and erotic sex scenes, which I absolutely loved. The characters were complex and jaded, each one harboring a wealth of pain and deep set emotional scars. The plot was brilliant. Every time you thought you were on the right trail to figuring it out, believe me you'll be wrong. The emotions throughout the book were gripping and heartfelt. I was in denial myself and the twist at the end quite threw me. If you like your historical romances with a touch of spice, intrigue, mystery, and suspense, than this is defiantly the book for you! Hat's off to you Chasity for unique treat. I vastly enjoyed it! Excellent read!!
I really enjoyed this book. It was an accurate historical with some incredibly naughty and erotic sex scenes, which I absolutely loved. The characters were complex and jaded, each one harboring a wealth of pain and deep set emotional scars. The plot was brilliant. Every time you thought you were on the right trail to figuring it out, believe me you'll be wrong. The emotions throughout the book were gripping and heartfelt. I was in denial myself and the twist at the end quite threw me. If you like your historical romances with a touch of spice, intrigue, mystery, and suspense, than this is defiantly the book for you! Hat's off to you Chasity for unique treat. I vastly enjoyed it! Excellent read!!
April 17, 2017
Mechanically the writing here is fine, if painfully repetitive with certain phrases. But the whole plot, every single aspect of it is just so cliched and overused I can't give it any more. There is literally no aspect of this plot I couldn't have predicted just by thinking about what motive you see most often in this sort of book and which of the characters were described to match the most common idea of villainy. Plus, it could do with more editing. I mean, the epilogue appears twice in the Kindle copy, so....
I had to just skim the sex scenes as they were so unexceptional and, to me, annoying. I find sex scenes that continuously focus on how "innocent" and "untried" and "untutored" and "inexperienced" the woman is, as well as ones that might as well just be a grocery list of which body parts the man lusts over boring to the extreme. Plus, I found it disturbing how often she couldn't identify her own feelings. I will give her credit for at least being willing to accept her own desires once she finally identified them and she never pulled the common, "What's happening to my body" schtick when she lost her virginity.
All in all, I keep trying to like Regency Romance and every once in a while I encounter one I do, which encourages me to keep trying. But this is a pretty classic example of why I generally don't like the genre, even if paranormal aspects were thrown in.
I had to just skim the sex scenes as they were so unexceptional and, to me, annoying. I find sex scenes that continuously focus on how "innocent" and "untried" and "untutored" and "inexperienced" the woman is, as well as ones that might as well just be a grocery list of which body parts the man lusts over boring to the extreme. Plus, I found it disturbing how often she couldn't identify her own feelings. I will give her credit for at least being willing to accept her own desires once she finally identified them and she never pulled the common, "What's happening to my body" schtick when she lost her virginity.
All in all, I keep trying to like Regency Romance and every once in a while I encounter one I do, which encourages me to keep trying. But this is a pretty classic example of why I generally don't like the genre, even if paranormal aspects were thrown in.
February 8, 2016
Great mystery and romance
Rhys doesn't trust Emme as she is rumored to be a psychic. He believed that she must be a charlatan or a fake.
He finds her in the night and he is drawn to her. He begins to worry about her safety after a medium is murdered.
Emme is being approached by the ghost of a young girl. She wakes up in strange places in the house and knows she is being led to solve a mystery.
A great cast of characters. I really liked Rhys and Michael. This is a very interesting book. I enjoyed it immensely.
Rhys doesn't trust Emme as she is rumored to be a psychic. He believed that she must be a charlatan or a fake.
He finds her in the night and he is drawn to her. He begins to worry about her safety after a medium is murdered.
Emme is being approached by the ghost of a young girl. She wakes up in strange places in the house and knows she is being led to solve a mystery.
A great cast of characters. I really liked Rhys and Michael. This is a very interesting book. I enjoyed it immensely.
July 10, 2016
Terrible. All the horrible cliché's of a romance and mystery novel and the mystery is that there is no mystery at all. It's obvious from the start who the culprit is and what's even worse is that three grown adults couldn't figure it out... Not that they tried! I couldn't finish it. Ended up skipping to the final few pages just to confirm my suspicions. This was absolutely not what I was expecting.
August 15, 2014
3.5/5.0
An enjoyable book, with a strong romance at its focus. Reading about Rhys and Emme is gratifying, and seeing how they overcome the prejudice and fall in love - a true pleasure to read!
Read full review in the 2012 November issue of InD’tale Magazine.
An enjoyable book, with a strong romance at its focus. Reading about Rhys and Emme is gratifying, and seeing how they overcome the prejudice and fall in love - a true pleasure to read!
Read full review in the 2012 November issue of InD’tale Magazine.
July 20, 2014
the lady who sees and speaks with ghosts is compromised by the duke and they marry. his sister was murdered as was his wife. who did it and why?
January 6, 2015
I LOVED this book!! A Regency romance with a paranormal twist...AWESOMENESS!!! I can't WAIT to read the next one
December 18, 2015
A great fun read. More froth than anything else but I liked the characters and the writer's style.
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