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The Castle Rose
Bastian Roux lived and died a hundred years ago. Kind of. He certainly feels like nothing more than a ghost as he haunts the abandoned Castle Rose Theatre, his only solace found in the notes of his piano. That is until Odette arrives.
Odette Durand moved to New Orleans for a fresh start. The coffee-addicted local bookshop manager never expected to be pulled into something supernatural and she certainly doesn’t believe in ghosts. But seeing a man no one else can see and hearing music that shouldn’t exist makes a girl question her beliefs–and her sanity.
With a mysterious and somewhat charming Southern gentleman thrown in the mix, Odette finds herself entangled in a century-old rivalry bound by a curse. If she’s the only one who can see Bastian, is she also the only one who can break whatever is keeping him stuck in the realm between the living and the dead? As Odette and Bastian navigate the shadows of Bastian’s past, they must grapple with the ultimate question: Will breaking the curse give Bastian his life back or take it away forever?
Odette Durand moved to New Orleans for a fresh start. The coffee-addicted local bookshop manager never expected to be pulled into something supernatural and she certainly doesn’t believe in ghosts. But seeing a man no one else can see and hearing music that shouldn’t exist makes a girl question her beliefs–and her sanity.
With a mysterious and somewhat charming Southern gentleman thrown in the mix, Odette finds herself entangled in a century-old rivalry bound by a curse. If she’s the only one who can see Bastian, is she also the only one who can break whatever is keeping him stuck in the realm between the living and the dead? As Odette and Bastian navigate the shadows of Bastian’s past, they must grapple with the ultimate question: Will breaking the curse give Bastian his life back or take it away forever?
224 pages, Paperback
Published September 30, 2024
1 person is currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Tabitha Caplinger
8 books136 followersTabitha Caplinger gets way too emotionally invested in the lives of fictional characters, whether it’s obsessing over a book or tv show, or getting lost creating her own worlds. Tabitha is the author of The Chronicle of the Three Trilogy, a Christian urban fantasy, and a lover of good stories and helping others live chosen. When she’s not writing book words, she’s reheating her coffee, binging a new show or teaching God’s Word to students. Tabitha, her husband and two beautifully sassy daughters desire to be Jesus with skin on for those around them. They live to love others, and for Marvel movies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 2, 2024
Both haunting and enchanting, Tabitha Caplinger’s The Castle Rose will leave you breathless in the best way. Bastian and Odette’s story is a tale as old as time, blooming with second chances, broken curses, and a mysterious magic only a story set in New Orleans can deliver. Readers will rejoice over this modern retelling full of heart and redemption.
July 28, 2024
The Castle Rose is a hauntingly beautiful character-driven narrative that will leave you awash with hope and the reminder that everyone is worthy of love and redemption.
Perfect for fans of curses found in such fairytales as Beauty and the Beast, supernatural romance such as in Casper the Friendly Ghost (note this is NOT a ghost story because there isn’t a ghost), and truly vile villains and scrumptious beignets like in The Princess and the Frog.
The best thread in The Castle Rose, however, is the theme of love—agape love and the power it has. The next best theme is the one of hope. And I cannot forget the lesson of living not for one’s self but for our Maker—an aspect that ties into the author’s greater motto of “living chosen.”
Other things that I personally enjoyed is the hint of a grumpy-sunshine trope and the fabulous mentor characters. Plus, Odette, who works in a bookshop, has a cat named Hepburn—how can one not love that??
This book will appeal to fans of urban fantasy, sweet romance, books that tug at your heart, and books that remind you of greater truths without being “preachy.” I cannot recommend it enough!
[Note the curse does relate to the history of voo-doo/hoo-doo in New Orleans but this is handled with care by the author in this work of fiction—evil is never glorified.]
Overall, 5 stars from me! Tabitha continues to be one of my auto-buy authors.
Perfect for fans of curses found in such fairytales as Beauty and the Beast, supernatural romance such as in Casper the Friendly Ghost (note this is NOT a ghost story because there isn’t a ghost), and truly vile villains and scrumptious beignets like in The Princess and the Frog.
The best thread in The Castle Rose, however, is the theme of love—agape love and the power it has. The next best theme is the one of hope. And I cannot forget the lesson of living not for one’s self but for our Maker—an aspect that ties into the author’s greater motto of “living chosen.”
Other things that I personally enjoyed is the hint of a grumpy-sunshine trope and the fabulous mentor characters. Plus, Odette, who works in a bookshop, has a cat named Hepburn—how can one not love that??
This book will appeal to fans of urban fantasy, sweet romance, books that tug at your heart, and books that remind you of greater truths without being “preachy.” I cannot recommend it enough!
[Note the curse does relate to the history of voo-doo/hoo-doo in New Orleans but this is handled with care by the author in this work of fiction—evil is never glorified.]
Overall, 5 stars from me! Tabitha continues to be one of my auto-buy authors.
August 3, 2024
The Castle Rose is a beautiful story of forgiveness, true love, and sacrifice. Bas and Odette are a perfect example of pulling away from the past and focusing on the future. The villain in this story is a fantastic fit, making this urban paranormal fantasy romance balanced with the right amount of chills, thrills, and swoons.
August 14, 2024
I knew from page one I would love this book. The setting, storyline, faith, and characters were magnetic. I liked the chapters were short, setting a quick pace for the story. Yet, not one word felt rushed or wasted.
The author did an excellent job of crafting a cast and plot readers quickly become invested in; creating a strong pull to keep reaching for this book any chance they get to find out what happens next.
I usually avoid books related to Voodoo because certain dark topics trouble my spirit. But I trusted this author and was pleased with how she incorporated these elements without making me uncomfortable. She sat the stage well to organically foster the development of faith, redemption, character growth, and a touch of sweet romance.
This story kept me up way too late because I had to know how it would end. The ending was heartbreaking (I cried more than once), beautiful, and satisfyingly perfect. When it was over, I wanted to read it all over again.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing an eARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
The author did an excellent job of crafting a cast and plot readers quickly become invested in; creating a strong pull to keep reaching for this book any chance they get to find out what happens next.
I usually avoid books related to Voodoo because certain dark topics trouble my spirit. But I trusted this author and was pleased with how she incorporated these elements without making me uncomfortable. She sat the stage well to organically foster the development of faith, redemption, character growth, and a touch of sweet romance.
This story kept me up way too late because I had to know how it would end. The ending was heartbreaking (I cried more than once), beautiful, and satisfyingly perfect. When it was over, I wanted to read it all over again.
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing an eARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 27, 2024
This book was so good! It was such a a cozy read and made me want to curl up with a good book and a hot drink. It was so hopeful and full of love. I loved Odette and Bastian, and I loved all the fun side characters. Octavian was a great villain too.
October 29, 2025
This one grabbed me right from the beginning. I wasn’t sure about the paranormal aspect going in, but it was so well done. I’m glad I gave this author a try! And now I need a beignet!
did-not-finish
November 7, 2024I was hoping for a romance, this is very much women's fiction. Sigh. DNF on page 63.
June 29, 2025
This was such a captivating story! I only wish it had been twice as long so I could have gotten to know the characters even more!
September 27, 2024
The Castle Rose is a magical and sweet romance that points readers to God’s love. I knew this would be a book that I would love once I found out about it and I was not disappointed.
Tabitha strings together a modern romance where Beauty and the Beast collides with a cursed ghost story. She has you hooked by the first chapters with the coffee-addicted main character and the mysterious ghost boy who loves to play the piano. With just the right amount of mystery, expectancy, magic, and romance this book was a pretty perfect read.
This enchanting story will not disappoint, it is full of redemption, broken curses, true love, music, magic, and much more. Go experience it for yourself!
Tabitha strings together a modern romance where Beauty and the Beast collides with a cursed ghost story. She has you hooked by the first chapters with the coffee-addicted main character and the mysterious ghost boy who loves to play the piano. With just the right amount of mystery, expectancy, magic, and romance this book was a pretty perfect read.
This enchanting story will not disappoint, it is full of redemption, broken curses, true love, music, magic, and much more. Go experience it for yourself!
May 3, 2025
A little bit out of my normal reading zone but I liked this one a lot. I came across this story because the author is going to be a reader event I’m attending in the fall. This particular story more than any of her others caught my interest and sounded good. I did enjoy the story, the cast of characters is perfect for the story and I loved the New Orleans setting.
August 19, 2024
Dear reader,
After writing two stories that felt so heavy at times...I cried more than laughed while writing them...I think I needed something a little lighter.
I needed a break from slaying demons and dragons.
I wanted a fairytale.
I wanted witty banter.
I want to take a breath from heavy things.
Then I got this idea for a boy no one could see...except, well, what if one person could?
I immediately loved Bastian and Odette and Sister Mary Cecilia and Lizzie and all the lattes!
It was what my heart needed after The Wolf Queen and The Wayward.
But I did wrestle with whether others would love it. Would my readers think it was too fluffy (not that there is anything wrong with fluffy)? But would it meet expectations or somehow fall short? (That may sound silly, but it was something I struggled with.)
The more I wrote, the more I realized I didn't care. I saw the depth and humanity in this fluffy little love story of a broody musician and a young woman who talks to her cat.
After all, love isn't silly or weak. True love conquers...more than aliens or dragons or demons...it conquers us and our flaws and mistakes. That's what The Castle Rose is about. It's why I fell in love with it and why I am so glad to share it with you.
I hope you enjoy the sass, crave beignets, and realize you are worthy of love.
Love,
Tab
After writing two stories that felt so heavy at times...I cried more than laughed while writing them...I think I needed something a little lighter.
I needed a break from slaying demons and dragons.
I wanted a fairytale.
I wanted witty banter.
I want to take a breath from heavy things.
Then I got this idea for a boy no one could see...except, well, what if one person could?
I immediately loved Bastian and Odette and Sister Mary Cecilia and Lizzie and all the lattes!
It was what my heart needed after The Wolf Queen and The Wayward.
But I did wrestle with whether others would love it. Would my readers think it was too fluffy (not that there is anything wrong with fluffy)? But would it meet expectations or somehow fall short? (That may sound silly, but it was something I struggled with.)
The more I wrote, the more I realized I didn't care. I saw the depth and humanity in this fluffy little love story of a broody musician and a young woman who talks to her cat.
After all, love isn't silly or weak. True love conquers...more than aliens or dragons or demons...it conquers us and our flaws and mistakes. That's what The Castle Rose is about. It's why I fell in love with it and why I am so glad to share it with you.
I hope you enjoy the sass, crave beignets, and realize you are worthy of love.
Love,
Tab
August 6, 2025
Another 5 star read by Tabitha Caplinger!
I have yet to read a book by Tabitha that I haven't loved, and The Castle Rose is no exception.
The wit, sass, & love in this book makes the perfect read.
Cursed between life & death, Bastian has succumbed to his melancholy and piano, sure there was no hope in lifting the curse that binds him to some sort of purgatory. Until he's seen, and he hasn't been seen for decades.
Odette, new to New Orleans, spots a handsome stranger one day and is immediately drawn to him. But, what she doesn't know is how their lives (or not life) will entangle, bringing them together to solve the mystery of Bastian's curse.
Hoodoo, Voodoo, or utter nonsense, Odette isn't sure what it is, but she knows that she has to break ghost-boy's curse. What ensues as she researches how to break the curse is that Odette will learn more about love than she realized.
What Tabitha has weaved together so perfectly is a tale of how Love conquers all, but it's not the fairy-tale love that we see in the movies. The Love she talks about is so much more, so much deeper.
All I can say is that you need to read this book. It's beautiful, sassy, and entertaining.
I have yet to read a book by Tabitha that I haven't loved, and The Castle Rose is no exception.
The wit, sass, & love in this book makes the perfect read.
Cursed between life & death, Bastian has succumbed to his melancholy and piano, sure there was no hope in lifting the curse that binds him to some sort of purgatory. Until he's seen, and he hasn't been seen for decades.
Odette, new to New Orleans, spots a handsome stranger one day and is immediately drawn to him. But, what she doesn't know is how their lives (or not life) will entangle, bringing them together to solve the mystery of Bastian's curse.
Hoodoo, Voodoo, or utter nonsense, Odette isn't sure what it is, but she knows that she has to break ghost-boy's curse. What ensues as she researches how to break the curse is that Odette will learn more about love than she realized.
What Tabitha has weaved together so perfectly is a tale of how Love conquers all, but it's not the fairy-tale love that we see in the movies. The Love she talks about is so much more, so much deeper.
All I can say is that you need to read this book. It's beautiful, sassy, and entertaining.
October 1, 2024
The Castle Rose is a charming and sweet story set in the heart of New Orleans. After a painful heartbreak, Odette moves to the city for a fresh start. Things take an unexpected turn when she walks passed the abandoned Castle Rose Theatre and hears faint piano music. Odette soon discovers that the pianist is Bastian, a cursed man who is stuck in a sort of limbo. While others can occasionally hear his piano playing, Odette is the only one who can actually see him. Together, they set out to uncover the secrets behind his curse and find a way to break it, forming a bond that could heal both their broken hearts in the process.
Overall, this was a cute story but there is a heavy religious undertone so keep that in mind prior to reading.
Overall, this was a cute story but there is a heavy religious undertone so keep that in mind prior to reading.
April 15, 2025
This is a delightfully different Christian fiction book. It’s a romance, but it’s a speculative fiction story that includes a voodoo curse and the undead. It’s not scary, though there are some dangerous scenes as there are in any good romance.
Odette can hear music that other people don’t. There’s a nun that can hear the music too. Turns out it’s Bastian’s music. He is a talented piano player, but he’s morose and has a reason to be, so his music is sad.
Enter the handsome Zane and the danger that comes along with him.
The Christian aspect of this novel is not overt. God is called the Source and the Maker. I don’t think Jesus is ever mentioned. The theme of the book is agape love. I think it’s the perfect story for seekers or agnostics.
Loved it!
Odette can hear music that other people don’t. There’s a nun that can hear the music too. Turns out it’s Bastian’s music. He is a talented piano player, but he’s morose and has a reason to be, so his music is sad.
Enter the handsome Zane and the danger that comes along with him.
The Christian aspect of this novel is not overt. God is called the Source and the Maker. I don’t think Jesus is ever mentioned. The theme of the book is agape love. I think it’s the perfect story for seekers or agnostics.
Loved it!
September 12, 2025
Haunting, heartfelt, and beautifully atmospheric, this story lingers like a melody you can’t forget.
Bastian and Odette’s connection is the kind that sneaks up on you soft, slow-burning, and deeply emotional. Set against the gothic charm of New Orleans and the eerie elegance of the Castle Rose Theatre, the novel weaves a spell of romance, mystery, and ghostly secrets. With lyrical prose and characters that feel achingly real, it explores grief, love, and the thin line between life and what comes after.
A poignant, otherworldly tale that makes you believe in second chances even the impossible kind.
Bastian and Odette’s connection is the kind that sneaks up on you soft, slow-burning, and deeply emotional. Set against the gothic charm of New Orleans and the eerie elegance of the Castle Rose Theatre, the novel weaves a spell of romance, mystery, and ghostly secrets. With lyrical prose and characters that feel achingly real, it explores grief, love, and the thin line between life and what comes after.
A poignant, otherworldly tale that makes you believe in second chances even the impossible kind.
October 13, 2024
Tabitha Caplinger did an amazing job bringing alive a slow growing love story that captivated and had me cheering and crying. I could see myself in each character and how love and redemption plays into a curse was amazing. If someone loves Beauty and the Beast and needs a cozy feeling story that will leave a smile on your face and a flutter in your heart then The Castle Rose should be your next beautiful read.
September 1, 2025
I haven’t read the book yet, but the synopsis instantly drew me in. A ghost trapped in an abandoned theatre, a skeptical woman who’s the only one who can see him, and a mysterious curse? Yes, please. The New Orleans setting adds the perfect gothic vibe, and I already sense this will be an emotional, atmospheric read. Definitely adding it to my TBR can’t wait to see how Bastian and Odette’s story unfolds.
September 6, 2024
A modern-day Beauty and the Beast, but with an added message of hope and agape love makes The Castle Rose my new favorite book! The story of Bastian and Odette, set in New Orleans, had me avoiding all the things (laundry, cooking, etc.) so I could just keep reading their tale.
A delightful new book from Tabitha Caplinger, this story had me captivated from page 1. I could not put the book down.
A delightful new book from Tabitha Caplinger, this story had me captivated from page 1. I could not put the book down.
September 17, 2024
THIS STORY!!! A delicate mix of plot and romance, this story had my heart from the very beginning. The setting in New Orleans felt so fitting, and I could practically see the streets of the French Quarter in my head as I was reading. Both Odette and Bastian were lovely characters dealing with their own personal issues regarding love and acceptance that came together in a magical way. I love the Beauty and the Beast meets Phantom of the Opera description because it is literally so fitting. This is a faster paced story, so where I wish there may have been more of a slow burn element and more of the characters getting to know each other a little more, it obviously doesn't detract any stars. I can see this becoming a comfort read for years to come. If this one is not on your list, I HIGHLY recommend it.
October 17, 2024
The Castle Rose by Tabitha Caplinger is a fun, interesting take on a "Beauty and the Beast" story. New Orleans, a "not ghost", a "what *really* happened 100 years ago" mystery, and a sweet love story. It's one of those books that not very far into it I knew I was going to like it, and I did. I love the characters and not only would I recommend this cute book, but I also want to reread it.
October 28, 2024
A sweet phantom, beauty and the beast story about a boy, not a ghost, trying to get back to the living. It was a perfect read for this time of year.
I love Tabitha's writing, but I could tell that this story was written for a younger audience. Which I didn't mind, I just missed Tabitha's richness that she brings to a story.
I love Tabitha's writing, but I could tell that this story was written for a younger audience. Which I didn't mind, I just missed Tabitha's richness that she brings to a story.
January 3, 2025
The book was okay, I felt it was slow and there wasn't much to the characters or the story line. I think the concert was interesting but could have gone into more depth or detail, like the story felt rushed and very surface level. I also was annoying how much "ghost boy" was used and they way she talked to her cat felt immature or out of place.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2025
I loved this book!! A sweet retelling of Beauty and the Beast set in New Orleans. Old world jazz meets a modern-ish bookstore in this wonderful quest to see if true love can really end curses. The results may surprise you! This is a must read and a great addition to your bookshelf!
October 20, 2025
4.5 stars or more? Depends on the test of time. Definitely a perfect for the moment book though. it was immersive and fun and compelling fast-paced. It flawlessly interwove faith themes, light supernatural elements that felt real, and I enjoyed the characters.
October 14, 2024
Such a good book! Couldn't put it down. It was my first by author Tabitha Caplinger. Won't be my last!
November 5, 2024
This was such a sweet, sincere ghost/not ghost love story.
April 18, 2025
Delightfully and beautifully written with great takeaway meaning. This is an author I'll read more of and follow.
April 29, 2025
I couldn't put it down!!!
October 2, 2024
The Castle Rose captivated and stole my heart. Odette’s story swept me up as she uprooted her life and moved to New Orleans to manage a local bookshop. She’s a very relatable and fun character to follow and as if it couldn’t get better, we also have a broody not-a-ghost with a curse to add to the intrigue. Don’t forget a charming gentleman (or is he?) thrown into the mix.
I laughed, I cried, I squealed, I cried again, laughed a lot more, gasped a few times, and then chased down my husband to tell him all about the story I read. Oh, and there’s a bunch of supportive yet sassy ladies + the cutest black cat you ever saw.
If you want some Phantom of the Opera, Beauty and the Beast, plus the flavors of New Orleans thrown in with some sweet romance, I’d recommend this book. It left me feeling lighter, happy, and a little hungry (beignets are to die for!), and ready to start it all over again.
I laughed, I cried, I squealed, I cried again, laughed a lot more, gasped a few times, and then chased down my husband to tell him all about the story I read. Oh, and there’s a bunch of supportive yet sassy ladies + the cutest black cat you ever saw.
If you want some Phantom of the Opera, Beauty and the Beast, plus the flavors of New Orleans thrown in with some sweet romance, I’d recommend this book. It left me feeling lighter, happy, and a little hungry (beignets are to die for!), and ready to start it all over again.
December 8, 2024
Um WOW I loved this! Beauty in the beast meets phantom of the opera set in New Orleans? Absolutely amazing.
When Odette moved to New Orleans for a new start she is quick to discover there is more to her little neighborhood than meets the eye. What is the mysterious music she hears? Why does everyone seem to have a ghost story to tell? Who is Bastian and how did he die(or not die, is he dead?)?
This was such a fantastic book, I simply could not put it down. Such a unique twist on beauty and the beast, I was charmed instantly.
If you like mysterious, paranormal romances with some action and Christian aspects this book is the perfect book for you. As always Tabitha has me clutching the edge of my seat in anticipation for what happens next. I absolutely love this book.
When Odette moved to New Orleans for a new start she is quick to discover there is more to her little neighborhood than meets the eye. What is the mysterious music she hears? Why does everyone seem to have a ghost story to tell? Who is Bastian and how did he die(or not die, is he dead?)?
This was such a fantastic book, I simply could not put it down. Such a unique twist on beauty and the beast, I was charmed instantly.
If you like mysterious, paranormal romances with some action and Christian aspects this book is the perfect book for you. As always Tabitha has me clutching the edge of my seat in anticipation for what happens next. I absolutely love this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews