The Phantom of Forest Lawn: Romance and Redemption in the City of the Dead

by Robert Brighton

Sometimes death is not the end . . .

From acclaimed author Robert Brighton comes a sweeping saga of passion, mystery, honor, and intrigue in “an epic in miniature” which combines Gothic romance, resurrection of the dead, and unrequited love into a dazzling unity that even death itself cannot put asunder. This "achingly beautiful story" with compelling clues and buried secrets will prove irresistible to uncover.

Serene Forest Lawn Cemetery is a place of eternal rest—until corpses go missing and young, pretty Mary Carkriff falls in with a group of international smugglers, led by Smuggler King George Eberly. Handsome, commanding George—a Civil War hero who brought home a bad leg and a headful of bad memories—soon finds Mary irresistible.

One day, Mary is surprised to witness something very strange going on in the cemetery and decides to investigate . . . and soon it seems that everyone, from the local police to the city’s all-powerful Anatomical Board, will do anything to prevent the ghastly truth from being uncovered.

Before long, no one is safe at Forest Lawn—not even its dead—and heiress Georgia Moffatt and her devoted right-hand man Christian Schamber join forces with George and Mary to exorcise the demons that threaten Forest Lawn. This unlikely foursome—and a supporting cast of unforgettable characters—are quickly drawn into an unholy underworld of pride, plunder . . . and murder.

The Phantom of Forest Lawn will keep you guessing until its final, explosive twist.

Find out what secrets lie buried in Robert Brighton’s The Phantom of Forest Lawn.



Get your copy today!

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

338 pages, Paperback

Published October 8, 2024

About the author

Robert Brighton, award-winning author of immersive historical fiction, including The Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries, is an authority on the Gilded Age, and a great believer that the Victorian era was anything but stuffy.

In his Avenging Angel Detective Agency Mysteries, Brighton exposes the turbulence of the era - its passions, dreams, and disasters - against a backdrop of careful research on the places, sights, sounds, and smells of the time.

When he is not walking the streets in the footsteps of the Avenging Angels, sniffing out unsolved mysteries, Brighton is an adventurer. He has traveled in more than 50 countries around the world, personally throwing himself into every situation his characters will face - from underground ruins to opium dens - and (so far) living to tell about it.

A graduate of the Sorbonne, Paris, Brighton is an avid student of early 20th Century history and literature, an ardent and relentless investigator, and an admirer of Emily Dickinson and Jim Morrison. He lives in Virginia with his wife and their two cats.

The Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries (read in any order):

- The Unsealing: Love, Lust, and Murder in the Gilded Age (Book One)
- A Murder in Ashwood: Scandals and Secrets in the Gilded Age (Book Two)
- Coming Spring 2024: Current of Darkness: Desire and Deceit in the Gilded Age (Book Three)

Plus, a new standalone novel:

The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City

Reviews

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would give this book 10 stars if I could! No spoilers here. I have read all 5 of Robert Brighton's books this year. (4 in April and May). He is a new author to me thanks to a friend here on Goodreads. I NEVER read the same author one book after another as the writing gets predictable. BUT Brighton is the exception!!!!!!Each of his books are loaded with Buffalo, NY (and region) history and jam packed with crime and intrigue. He always writes a "twist" but you never see it coming. He can write a twist like no other author I have read. Phantom is now my favorite of his books. It was part love story as well as the crime he is so gifted at writing. I have looked forward to this book coming out for months and was not disappointed! Forest Lawn Cemetery, Buffalo, NY., is a beautiful cemetery with many famous, wealthy and average citizens buried there. It was exciting to see the cemetery as a "character". I have done the tram tours......it has as much history as Buffalo, itself. So as stated on the cover "Romance and Redemption in the City of the Dead", is the perfect description. If you believe in true, undying love and want a great mystery/crime read, please choose this one. This story will stay with me for a very long time. I was in tears at the end., A MUST READ. If you choose just one of his books, Choose Phantom!!!!!

[Nursebookie · Rating 4 out of 5]

TITLE: The Phantom of Forest Lawn
AUTHOR: Robert Brighton
PUB DATE: 10.8.2024

Sometimes death is not the end.

From acclaimed author Robert Brighton comes a sweeping saga of mystery, love, and intrigue in “an epic in miniature.” This "achingly beautiful story" with compelling clues and buried secrets will prove irresistible to uncover.

THOUGHTS:

I love a gothic and atmospheric read that had all
the elements of a good solid mystery. The writing was incredibly fun to read - it was most definitely cinematic and also gripping - I enjoyed feeling like I was immersed into the time period. The blend of mystery and romance was fantastic - really enjoyed this one.

[Victoria Worley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be my favorite historical read ever. I loved the different views from the folks involved in the gave robbing. This is was also a beautiful and sad love story. A good bit of humor as well. Truly amazing writing. Forever grateful for the chance to read this book!

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a historical mystery set after the Civil War in Buffalo, New York. I loved the descriptions of the city and all of its many nefarious characters.

The fact that Forest Lawn Cemetery is a focal point of the story is great. The mystery builds slowly and that really wasn’t a problem for me because it added to the atmosphere of the story.

[David Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this atmospheric tale of Romance and Redemption in the City of the Dead. The way the story was crafted made for an easy and entertaining read. The characters came alive with the cinematic descriptions of time and place including the Forest Lawn cemetery, a character in and of itself. With a mystery at its core the story unfolds in an intriguing, methodical way that kept me reading late into the night, not wanting to put it down. If you like character driven mysteries that are set in historical locations that come alive within the pages, I highly recommend this well written story.

Thank you to the author, Ashwood Press and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.

[donna moshier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love all of Robert Brighton's . This one is my favorite so far!

[Joanne Campagna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I live across the street from Forest Lawn Cemetery. I enjoyed the book and actually could visualize many of the characters in the book moving within the real life historical cemetery. It was interesting and compelling.

[Literary Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Phantom of Forest Lawn, by Robert Brighton, is a captivating dive into post-Civil War Buffalo, New York, where the living and the dead intersect in the most intriguing ways. Set in 1867, the story revolves around the sprawling Forest Lawn Cemetery, which has become a hub of not just burials but also clandestine activities. The novel weaves together the lives of Georgia Moffatt, a woman determined to protect her family’s legacy, and Christian Schamber, whose past and present are entangled with the cemetery’s mysteries.

I especially enjoyed Brighton’s ability to bring the historical setting to life. He paints a vivid picture of Buffalo during this era, with its wooden sidewalks, horse-drawn trolleys, and rapid post-war growth. The meticulous attention to detail, like the high water table and the booming real estate demand, adds a layer of authenticity that immerses you in the period. The prologue, where a man reflects on a bittersweet memory, sets a nostalgic tone that resonates throughout the book.

The characters are well-developed and compelling. Georgia Moffatt stands out with her strong will and determination to combat the resurrection trade tarnishing her family’s name. Her interactions with Mr. Stroup, as they discuss hiring a night watchman to protect the graves, highlight her proactive nature and the social challenges of the time. On the other hand, Christian Schamber’s journey is equally engaging, especially his heartfelt conversations with Georgia about love and honor. Their evolving relationship is delicately woven into the darker themes of the story and engages the reader emotionally.

Brighton’s writing style is a blend of poetry and accessibility. There are moments of sheer beauty in his descriptions. This lyrical quality, combined with the more gritty and humorous elements, like the scene where Stroup deals with the aftermath of an explosive mishap in the cemetery, provides a narrative that is beautiful and engaging.

The Phantom of Forest Lawn is a richly detailed historical novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and mystery alike. Brighton’s ability to blend romance, history, and intrigue makes this a standout read.

[Yolanda Gomez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is a brilliant blend of romance, redemption, and gripping mystery set in a hauntingly atmospheric world. It beautifully explores how love and second chances can arise in the darkest of circumstances, creating a timeless and deeply human story that’s impossible not to love.
The partnership between George Eberly, a cunning and morally ambiguous smuggler, and Mary Carkriff, a resourceful young woman with a talent for codes, is captivating. Their relationship evolves from one of necessity to one of mutual respect and deeper connection. Mary’s wit and determination complement George’s rough edges, and their bond offers a compelling narrative of redemption. It’s a poignant reminder that love has the power to inspire change, even in the grayest of moral worlds. On the other hand, Georgia Moffatt’s quiet and enduring relationship with Christian Schamber presents a contrasting portrayal of love. While Georgia fights to protect her family’s legacy amidst societal challenges, Christian’s unwavering loyalty provides her with strength and solace. Their understated connection highlights the steadfastness of love, offering a touching counterpoint to the more urgent dynamic between George and Mary. The novel’s darker elements, like the sinister subplot involving resurrectionists desecrating graves, intensify the stakes and deepen the redemptive arcs of the characters. These chilling moments make the tenderness and love shared by the protagonists all the more impactful, proving that hope and connection can thrive even in grim circumstances.
With its rich storytelling, vivid characters, and seamless interplay of romance and redemption, this book feels immersive and meaningful.

[Ivan M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robert Brighton delivers another immersive novel, rich in detail that builds into a thrilling and intricate mystery. The story unfolds with separate plotlines, skillfully immersing readers in the 19th century while allowing them to experience events through the perspectives of well-drawn characters. Each plotline is crafted with care, giving depth and specificity to both the narrative and the characters.

One standout aspect of this novel is the author’s remarkable ability to transition seamlessly from tender love scenes to moments of chilling suspense. These sudden shifts keep the reader hooked, making the book both engaging and unpredictable. Brighton’s writing style is uniquely entertaining, bolstered by his meticulous attention to historical accuracy.

The story primarily follows Georgia, a determined woman fiercely protective of her family’s legacy, and Christian, a mysterious figure entangled in the eerie cemetery mysteries involving missing bodies and resurrectionists. These characters are highly relatable, and their emotional journeys evoke frustration, joy, and fear, making the narrative feel fast-paced and dynamic. Secondary characters like Mary add texture to the story, playing subtle but impactful roles that support the main plot.

True to Brighton’s reputation, the mystery keeps readers guessing until the very end, with an unexpected conclusion that is both surprising and satisfying. This compelling tale effortlessly blends historical fiction, mystery, and suspense, making it an excellent choice for history enthusiasts and mystery lovers alike. It’s a book that entertains and surprises in equal measure.

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved that this novels name setting was the Forest Lawn Cemetery. We meet a curious set of characters that really make this novel. I enjoyed that we had all these different aspects of characters to bring this story to life. Fermin and Dolan are two hoodlums who have been used to digging graves so when they are offered an opportunity that sounds great, they take it only to realize just how much work they will be doing as the undertaking of moving mass graves from another place to this cemetery is to commence soon. Kraft and Martin show us the dark depths of how bodies were decided if they were for the cemetery, where, how deep or if they were good enough to be used for science and schooling. Georgia is heart broken from her husbands death and now her father has also passed and when his will is read, she finds that a large amount of land is to be given to Forest Lawn Cemetery, no longer will it be a beautiful orchard but gray headstones where the trees once stood. Meanwhile Christ is working his way into Georgia's life now that he is back from the war. Mary Carkriff finds herself looking for word and a new start, when she is offered a position she cannot refuse. As each character's story is told, this novel really comes together with some romance and redemption. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

[Debbie Maskus · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Phantom of Forest Lawn by Robert Brighton presents many interesting and macabre facts about this actual cemetery established in 1849, in Buffalo, New York. The cemetery celebrates the 175th year through July 12, 2025. The disturbing facts stand as how multitudes of bodies were taken and sold the surrounding medical schools for the students. A body garnered at least a dollar or more depending on the age, sex, and state of the body. The story opens in 1867, right after the Civil War with many maimed and mentally sick soldiers. The poorhouse holds so many of the desolate citizens. The conditions exceed all sanitary rules. The poor people receive hardly any food and are locked within the poorhouse every night. Brighton introduces two men living in the poorhouse: Arthur and Bobby. These worthless men work as gravediggers at Forest Lawn and receive $1 a day, lodging, and food for the backbreaking task of digging graves. Not all graves claim a depth of six feet, and not every person rests in a single occupant grave. Robert Brighton imitates Spoon River Anthology with his vivid characterization of the many characters in this novel. Out of the dark story, two wonderful romances lighten the story. Towards the end of the story, the phantom emerges. A very interesting story involving an actual cemetery and the mysteries of death.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The layered plot, filled with twists and surprises, kept me hooked from start to finish. The vivid and atmospheric setting brought Forest Lawn Cemetery and its surroundings to life, making it feel tangible and immersive. The characters were exceptionally well-rounded, with genuine motivations and depth. Their flaws, strengths, and complexities made them relatable and engaging. The relationships, whether rooted in love, loyalty, or ambition, felt authentic and added richness to the narrative. Even the villains were compelling, creating tension without feeling exaggerated. The pacing was excellent, moving quickly while still providing enough detail to fully immerse me in the story. Brighton’s prose was elegant yet straightforward, making the book both thought-provoking and accessible. The touches of humor and romance balanced the darker elements, like the sinister acts of the resurrectionists and the eerie cemetery backdrop. The historical details were seamlessly woven into the narrative, adding authenticity and enhancing the plot’s depth. They made the story feel grounded and engaging without overwhelming the reader.
This is a beautifully crafted book that delivers suspense, emotion, and humor in equal measure. It’s a standout mystery with depth and heart, and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys thoughtful, memorable reads.

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this intriguing and fascinating historical mystery novel, readers follow smuggler king George Eberly, Canadian Mary Carkriff, heiress Georgia Moffatt, and Georgia’s right hand Christian Schamber are dealing with new problems in Forest Lawn, where resurrectionists are setting up a new system in the Forest Lawn Cemetery where freshly buried corpses will be sold to medical schools. Georgia and Christian are concerned with the disappearance of the Moffat Orchards, while George is fascinated with Mary’s expertise with codes and ciphers and the implications for his smuggling shipments. As the three parallel narratives unfold and the mystery thickens, readers and the four unlikely allies are set on a collision course that will bring the cemetery, the Moffatt Orchards and the smuggling business together. With four unique characters and the complicated mysteries at the core of this book, readers will love the twists and turns, as well as the intrigue, of this novel. The historical detail contributes to the atmosphere and setting of the novel, while the fascinating elements of the smuggling ring and the resurrectionists really add to the gothic atmosphere. A little creepy and totally engrossing, this is a fascinating and high stakes new historical mystery that readers will love.

Thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op, and Ashwood Press for the advance copy.

[Chico's Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

 The vivid descriptions of 19th-century Buffalo, especially the hauntingly beautiful Forest Lawn Cemetery, pulled me right into the story. The cemetery itself felt alive, its atmosphere rich with secrets and shadows that amplified the suspense throughout the book.

The characters are deeply engaging, particularly Georgia Granger. Her resilience and complexity as she navigates personal loss and societal expectations made her a standout protagonist. I appreciated how her strength wasn’t just in her actions but also in her emotional depth. Christian Schamber, with his quiet intensity and unfulfilled longing, provided an excellent foil to Georgia’s fiery determination. Their stories intertwined beautifully, creating moments of tension, heartbreak, and triumph. What impressed me most was the pacing and structure of the mystery. It unravels gradually, pulling you deeper with each chapter. The book also seamlessly weaves historical details into the narrative without feeling heavy-handed, making the world feel authentic and immersive.

It’s a perfect read for fans of historical fiction and character-driven mysteries, offering an atmospheric journey into a world of love, loss, and redemption.

[Randy McCracken · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect introduction to the works of master storyteller Robert Brighton.

Set in post-Civil War Buffalo with characters and themes that will delight and pull at your heart, Mr. Brighton brings vivid images and scenes off the pages in ways that stay with the reader long after the last page has been turned.

One of the best historical writers today, readers can be educated about real life in the 19th century as they are caught up in fantastic characters and their stories. From derelicts Artie and Bobby living on the edge of society to fortunate ones Christ and Georgia who seemingly have all the comforts needed for happiness, Brighton brings us another terrific novel that brings depth of characters and circumstance.

Brighton is at his best nimbly weaving stories of survival, exploitation, opportunism, grief, and ultimately love into a memorable novel about the citizens of Buffalo as they work, steal, or exploit their way into a city transforming itself from a frontier town to a thriving metropolis in a newly reunited country.

The works of Robert Brighton are to be treasured, and Phantom of Forest Lawn may be one of his best.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must admit that the prologue had me thinking, "This is good. This is exactly what I expected from a book with 'Romance and Redemption' in the title." I understand that the first few chapters of a novel need to establish the character and mindset of both the protagonists and antagonists. Since Robert Brighton is an expert on the Gilded Age, I know this accurately reflects what life was like "in the day."
The rest of the novel was filled with mystery, suspense, wit, and charm, and it concluded very satisfactorily. All the characters were believable, and I found myself rooting for the "good guys" while feeling pleased when the "bad guys" received their comeuppance.
I would highly recommend this book from a historical, entertaining, and romantic perspective. Robert Brighton is a well-regarded author, and his work is well worth reading.

Thank you to Ashwood Press and LibraryThing.com Giveaway for a copy of this book. It has introduced me to a new author. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story.

The author's writing style is richly detailed and atmospheric, seamlessly blending historical context with compelling storytelling. The vivid descriptions bring the setting to life, transporting me to a time when progress often came at great cost. I was thoroughly engaged by the balance of quiet, reflective moments and gripping tension. The well-developed, relatable characters and their interactions with their environment add depth to the narrative.
The themes explored add another layer of intrigue. The tension between progress and preservation, the fragility of human connections, and the lengths people will go to protect what they value most make the novel not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. The blend of history, mystery, and emotional depth ensures the story lingers long after the last page.
I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy historical fiction with a touch of mystery and drama. This is a novel that invites you to immerse yourself fully, offering a satisfying and memorable reading experience.

[Almiria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The historical period comes alive through Brighton's skillful writing, which captures the eerie grandeur and decay of Forest Lawn Cemetery, turning it into a character all its own. The vivid descriptions and atmospheric tension pulled me into the setting, making the mystery even more gripping.

Themes of love, loyalty, and resilience are woven seamlessly into the story without overshadowing the central intrigue. I was drawn into the evolving trust and partnership between George and Mary, as their dynamic added depth and heart to the mystery. The characters’ quirks and challenges made them relatable and engaging.

Brighton strikes a perfect balance between historical narrative, suspense, and moments of humor. The mystery is compelling and full of twists, keeping me hooked well past bedtime. This gripping historical mystery will appeal to fans of gothic tales, suspenseful romances, and richly detailed historical fiction. It’s the kind of book that belongs on book club lists and makes an excellent gift for mystery lovers.

[Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of mystery!

This captivating tale immerses readers in a world of fantasy, shadows, and secrets, blending mystery, romance, and a touch of the supernatural for an unforgettable experience. Set against the eerie backdrop of Forest Lawn Cemetery, the story masterfully weaves tension and intrigue from the moment smuggler George’s goods are intercepted to the emergence of a gang of grave robbers. The plot keeps you hooked, with each twist and revelation heightening the suspense.
The cemetery itself becomes a character, its dark corridors and hidden tombs creating a haunting atmosphere that deepens the mystery. The protagonists are compelling and dynamic. Their growth and interactions, filled with moments of fear and love, add depth to the narrative and keep the emotional stakes high.
Perfect for fans of mystery and suspense, this book delivers puzzles, unexpected moments, and vivid descriptive writing that transports you to its enigmatic world. It's a story that will keep you hooked until the very end.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Phantom of Forest Lawn by Robert Brighton is an enthralling mix of mystery, romance, and suspense. The setting—a sprawling cemetery tied to smugglers and resurrectionists—is unique and gripping. George Eberly, the smuggler king, stands out with his charm and moral ambiguity, while his dynamic with the intelligent and fiercely independent Mary Carkriff adds emotional depth. Their relationship is both tender and complex, making their journey captivating.
Georgia Moffatt and Christian Schamber provide a poignant counterbalance with their fight to preserve Moffatt Orchards, adding emotional weight to the narrative. The resurrectionists inject a chilling, thrilling element, and the high stakes surrounding intercepted shipments and lurking dangers kept me hooked.
Brighton’s writing captures the eerie beauty of Forest Lawn with vivid detail and balances the dark themes with moments of levity. The characters are complex, and the story delivers suspense and romance in equal measure. This is a standout book I highly recommend for its originality and emotional impact.

[Natalia Benavides · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recommended

Set against the haunting backdrop of Forest Lawn Cemetery, the story immediately pulls you into a vividly crafted world filled with intrigue and tension. The historical details are seamlessly woven into the narrative, adding authenticity and enhancing the stakes.
The characters drive the story with their depth and complexity. George Eberly, the morally ambiguous smuggler, is both charismatic and flawed, while Mary Carkriff’s intelligence and resilience make her a standout. Their evolving dynamic brims with tension and vulnerability, adding emotional weight to the plot.
Brighton’s writing strikes the perfect balance between elegance and readability. The pacing keeps the plot moving swiftly while allowing for moments of reflection and emotional depth.
This novel masterfully combines historical intrigue, emotional storytelling, and gripping suspense. It’s an exceptional read for anyone who loves richly detailed mysteries with complex characters and a touch of the macabre.

[CarlitasFox · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating story
The mix of themes is fascinating, especially for fans of stories tied to death and mystery. The dark, eerie setting is beautifully described, drawing readers into Forest Lawn’s chilling atmosphere. The vivid depictions allow you to imagine every shadowy corner, fueling a sense of dread as you read. The setting is one of the book’s standout elements, immersing you completely.
The characters are equally impressive—complex, dynamic, and driven by a shared goal to uncover the city’s secrets. Their determination to solve the mysteries, especially the unsettling events tied to the dead, adds depth and urgency to the story.
This book is a creepy and thrilling tale filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you on edge. It’s a story that gives you goosebumps and keeps your imagination engaged.
If you love dark, atmospheric mysteries that transport you to another world, I highly recommend this one!

[Miss W Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Phantom of Forest Lawn by Robert Brighton is a complex and captivating novel that I really enjoyed.

This historical fiction novel is set in Buffalo, NY in 1867 set around Forest Lawn Cemetery.

The story centers around Georgia Moffatt and Christian Schamber. Georgia will do anything to protect her family's history and Christian whose life is caught up with the mysteries of this cemetery.

I really appreciate the prologue which sets the tone for this exceptional novel.

The characters are complex, flawed, and well fleshed out.

The descriptions of the time and the setting are beautiful, and I could picture them in my minds eye.

This historical fiction, combines history, mystery and romance and excitement that is an incredible read.

Cannot recommend this book enough!

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a stunning historical read, containing both elements of dark and light.

With cinematic and vivid details, the author placed me in post-Civil War Buffalo, New York, particularly in and around the Forest Lawn Cemetery.

There is a mystery at hand, and the story includes a skillfully plotted investigation that includes grave robbing and corpse smuggling. With some dark humor and grave robbing, the story takes on a gothic feel. But it doesn’t become overly dark, as a romance is woven into the narrative, breathing light and hopefulness into the story.

I loved how the cemetery became a character in itself, and I learned so much about this historic place. This is a fantastic read with twists and turns that entertained me until the final page.

Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @robertbrightonauthor for the gifted book.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I truly had know idea I would like this book as much as I do.

This story took me by surprise. At the beginning of the book I got a bit squeamish, as some of the things happening in the story were a bit gross.

As the story went on I could not stop from turning the pages.

I love reading books that take place in the 1800's. This story was one I have not read anything on the lines of before. Which made it even better. Its so refreshing to read a story that hasn't been told many different times in different ways.

Robert Brighton has a great writers mind and wrote a terrific tale, one that will stick in my mind for a while to come.

I recommend this book, and even if you cant stomach some of the things in it, I urge you to keep reading.

Great story!

[Aneley Sánchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

A masterpiece!

The dark and mysterious atmosphere of The Phantom of Forest Lawn is immediately captivating. The plot unfolds with a perfect balance of calm moments and intense action, keeping the story engaging from start to finish. The detailed characters and richly described setting create a compelling narrative.
The historical context is impressively woven into the story, adding depth through eerie events like body thefts, emotional character struggles, and intricate love stories. The blend of history, complex characters, and gripping mysteries makes the book stand out. I felt deeply connected to the characters and immersed in the story.
The Phantom of Forest Lawn exceeded my expectations and delivered everything I want in a great book. It’s a masterful and engrossing read.

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brighton masterfully intertwines themes of love, crime, societal challenges, and fear, creating a richly detailed and engaging narrative. The plot unfolds intricately, capturing attention with its clever pacing and layered storytelling. The characters are dynamic and feel deeply authentic, their interactions seamlessly driving the story forward.
The author’s prose is sharp and effective, with dialogue that brings the characters to life and enhances the narrative's momentum. The inclusion of historical elements adds depth and context, enriching the mystery and making the story even more compelling.
It’s a remarkable, well-written novel that left me eager to explore more of Brighton’s work.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The plot and action didn't necessarily flow smoothly all the way through, and I would have liked to have gotten to know the characters more intimately, but an entertaining read all the same. The premise is built on cemeteries, exhumation and medical practices in 1867 Buffalo, New York - so I appreciated being occasionally grossed out by the depiction of what may or may not have been actual activities back then. With both subject matters and characters that are unexpected, this book is a anything but predictable.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story itself is more than entrancing and captivating but is even more meaningful to those of us who totally geek history and hoard facts like a dragon. There is a strong plot and realistic characters who draw the reader into the story and kept me up late reading. Loved it!
I won a print copy in a LibraryThing Giveaway from Ashwood Press.
@goodreads @bookbub @librarythingofficial #Suspense #Drama #Romance #Smugglers #resurrectionists @barnesandnoble ***** Review @booksamillion @bookshop_org @bookshop_org_uk