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Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #6
Ghastly Mistake
Elinor must save those she loves from those who betrayed her.
After being accused of murder, Elinor is on the run as her city falls apart. Rebellions, riots, and citizens falling dead in the streets have put the city into chaos.
When Elinor confronts those who murdered her father, she reveals a web of deceit that tries to ensnare her and Tristan. But, forget the conspiracy to topple a king’s throne, her apprentice Twyla is missing and is in grave danger.
It will take all of Elinor’s wit and courage, along with her faithful friends, to save all those she cares about and prevent them from becoming nothing but ghosts.
The exciting conclusion of this six-part Gaslamp fantasy ghost mystery series featuring a strong-minded female Sherlock Holmes-like character with a slow burn romance.
After being accused of murder, Elinor is on the run as her city falls apart. Rebellions, riots, and citizens falling dead in the streets have put the city into chaos.
When Elinor confronts those who murdered her father, she reveals a web of deceit that tries to ensnare her and Tristan. But, forget the conspiracy to topple a king’s throne, her apprentice Twyla is missing and is in grave danger.
It will take all of Elinor’s wit and courage, along with her faithful friends, to save all those she cares about and prevent them from becoming nothing but ghosts.
The exciting conclusion of this six-part Gaslamp fantasy ghost mystery series featuring a strong-minded female Sherlock Holmes-like character with a slow burn romance.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2024
56 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Byrd Nash
25 books1,496 followersDiscover fearless women, clever as cats, partnered with men who fall first even if they do have a hidden agenda. Byrd writes riveting characters who are relatable but realistically complex.
Her book series showcase alternate histories with intrigue, fantasy, and the supernatural, while Byrd’s standalone novels are thought-provoking explorations of family dysfunction using contemporary settings and magical realism.
Her book series showcase alternate histories with intrigue, fantasy, and the supernatural, while Byrd’s standalone novels are thought-provoking explorations of family dysfunction using contemporary settings and magical realism.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 11, 2024
Excellent ending to the series!
Ghastly Mistake
By Byrd Nash
I have loved this whole series! It has just enough paranormal, romance, mystery, thrills, and history to be captivating. I will miss it!
Ghastly Mistake
By Byrd Nash
I have loved this whole series! It has just enough paranormal, romance, mystery, thrills, and history to be captivating. I will miss it!
May 6, 2024
Absolutely wonderful final chapter to the story of Elinor Chalamet, Ghost Talker. 4.5 stars.
The author did a great job of wrapping up all the story lines. I was surprised at the identity of the person who murdered Elinor's father; I chortled with glee over the progress of Elinor's romance with Tristan Fontaine, the Duke de Archambeau; I admired Elinor's clever handling of the king's petty behavior.
And the epilogue was the cherry on the sundae.
I finished reading this with a big smile on my face. Well done, Bryd Nash, well done.
The author did a great job of wrapping up all the story lines. I was surprised at the identity of the person who murdered Elinor's father; I chortled with glee over the progress of Elinor's romance with Tristan Fontaine, the Duke de Archambeau; I admired Elinor's clever handling of the king's petty behavior.
And the epilogue was the cherry on the sundae.
I finished reading this with a big smile on my face. Well done, Bryd Nash, well done.
May 3, 2024
This was an incredible end. I'm going to miss Elinor, Tristan and friends so much. I wish it wasn't the last book, I could read 100 books set in this world with these characters.
April 24, 2024
4.5 / 5.0 stars
Oh, Ms. Nash, you never disappoint! This sixth and final book in series finds our clever and witty Elinor, the Madame Chalamet in a bit of a pickle as she is falsely accused of murder. After a bit of swashbuckling she is on the trail of her accuser. The slow and steady burn between her and Tristan Fontaine, the Duke de Archambeau continues in this delicious story feeding the hope of each of us committed readers.
The nearly dead are collapsing to their demise. There's mayhem in the streets, the lower class is in an uproar over inadequate representation in Parliament, and the aristos are fleeing in panic. Our blessed duo, working together to clear Elinor's name while at the same time attempting to quell the hostilities is pulling out all of the stops but will that be enough? Can stasis return to Alenbonné and will Tristan finally take Elinor as his own?
This was a delightful addition to this charming series and rather bittersweet as it is the final installment. Elinor's empathetic and respectful handling of those of the spirit world as well as those walking on the earthly plane is charming and endearing. The dialogue is terrific, humorous and engaging. The world building is imaginative and cinematic in scope. The slow burn romance is tastefully rendered. All in all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read. It was a beautiful wrap-up to a very fun series.
I am grateful to the author Byrd Nash, for having provided an advance reader copy of this book. Her generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone
Publisher: Rook and Castle Press
Publication date: April 24, 2024
No. of pages: 274
ASIN : B0CTVKH27G
Oh, Ms. Nash, you never disappoint! This sixth and final book in series finds our clever and witty Elinor, the Madame Chalamet in a bit of a pickle as she is falsely accused of murder. After a bit of swashbuckling she is on the trail of her accuser. The slow and steady burn between her and Tristan Fontaine, the Duke de Archambeau continues in this delicious story feeding the hope of each of us committed readers.
The nearly dead are collapsing to their demise. There's mayhem in the streets, the lower class is in an uproar over inadequate representation in Parliament, and the aristos are fleeing in panic. Our blessed duo, working together to clear Elinor's name while at the same time attempting to quell the hostilities is pulling out all of the stops but will that be enough? Can stasis return to Alenbonné and will Tristan finally take Elinor as his own?
This was a delightful addition to this charming series and rather bittersweet as it is the final installment. Elinor's empathetic and respectful handling of those of the spirit world as well as those walking on the earthly plane is charming and endearing. The dialogue is terrific, humorous and engaging. The world building is imaginative and cinematic in scope. The slow burn romance is tastefully rendered. All in all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read. It was a beautiful wrap-up to a very fun series.
I am grateful to the author Byrd Nash, for having provided an advance reader copy of this book. Her generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone
Publisher: Rook and Castle Press
Publication date: April 24, 2024
No. of pages: 274
ASIN : B0CTVKH27G
May 10, 2024
4.5/5⭐️
This is the 6th and final installment of a ghost mystery series that surprised me by how much I enjoyed it.
In this wrap-up, Elinor is accused of murder and on the run, confronts her father’s killers, rescue her ghost talker apprentice and thwart a surprising villain. Lots going on.
The two things I’ve loved most about this series are the characters and the world-building. Both are done very well and kept me looking forward to more. I’ll miss Elinor’s adventures but am glad I discovered her.
This is the 6th and final installment of a ghost mystery series that surprised me by how much I enjoyed it.
In this wrap-up, Elinor is accused of murder and on the run, confronts her father’s killers, rescue her ghost talker apprentice and thwart a surprising villain. Lots going on.
The two things I’ve loved most about this series are the characters and the world-building. Both are done very well and kept me looking forward to more. I’ll miss Elinor’s adventures but am glad I discovered her.
April 17, 2024
The final book in the series starts out with Elinor waking up next to a dead body in a locked room
with the police pounding on the door. She is unsure of what happened even though they are arresting her for murder. Before she can be taken way Tristan arrives and literally whisks her away! Thus begins this
final book which finds Elinor and Tristan getting married on the run from the law, trying to save her apprentice but finding her gone, also finding her mentor dead but finding her ghost who reveals who killed Elinor’s father and the relationship between her mentor and the killer leaving her shocked and numbed by the betrayal of people she had trusted for
so many years!
There are many twists and turns in this final book of
revenge, greed and those with power who try and destroy others who get the tables turned on them in the end. Paranormal ghostly appearances help soothe and comfort those who have died and are being misused and are helped to transition forward and the living evil doers are brought to justice.
I really enjoyed this series and highly recommend it! To fully enjoy it you need to read it in its entirety- otherwise you’ll miss so much of the story! Everything relates towards the final book so get the
entire series and start at the beginning with a headstrong woman in the late 1800’s era of France
who can talk to ghosts and solves murders and falls
in love with a person of nobility! In that time period such a thing was scandalous!
with the police pounding on the door. She is unsure of what happened even though they are arresting her for murder. Before she can be taken way Tristan arrives and literally whisks her away! Thus begins this
final book which finds Elinor and Tristan getting married on the run from the law, trying to save her apprentice but finding her gone, also finding her mentor dead but finding her ghost who reveals who killed Elinor’s father and the relationship between her mentor and the killer leaving her shocked and numbed by the betrayal of people she had trusted for
so many years!
There are many twists and turns in this final book of
revenge, greed and those with power who try and destroy others who get the tables turned on them in the end. Paranormal ghostly appearances help soothe and comfort those who have died and are being misused and are helped to transition forward and the living evil doers are brought to justice.
I really enjoyed this series and highly recommend it! To fully enjoy it you need to read it in its entirety- otherwise you’ll miss so much of the story! Everything relates towards the final book so get the
entire series and start at the beginning with a headstrong woman in the late 1800’s era of France
who can talk to ghosts and solves murders and falls
in love with a person of nobility! In that time period such a thing was scandalous!
April 11, 2024
I was very kindly sent an ARC of this book; my review is voluntary and my opinions my own.
WE DID IT, FAMILY!
Also, Tristan did it. He got his dearest wish - which he's been attempting since forever ago but of course only the threat of prison or worse will convince our Elinor to bend so she doesn't break.
The cliffhanger ending from book 5 is our explosive opening in this final chapter, and OH how absolutely DELICIOUS it is when De Vindt can only sputter while Tristan takes back what belongs to him!
But the sweetness of our two heroes is definitely marred by the betrayal Elinor was warned about - I'M SO MAD AT HIM. THE TRAITOR. THE GALL OF THE MAN. THE AUDACITY.
It's a betrayal for the books, I tell you, but at least there's an ending there and the loop is neatly tied.
Elsewhere, the King is still a spoiled egg-shaped brat, but Elinor's much too smart to kow tow to him! Which is why we love her so much.
More importantly, however, I ADORE the point at which Elinor and Tristan end their (current) journey. We all know Tristan has trust issues, but by the time this book ends he comes home to his wife and her alleged "lover" and is mostly just bored, which I think is a vast step forward for the man. But I'll admit my favourite moments with him are when he lets Elinor in, like a gentle uncertainty about buying her jewellery, or sleeping with his arms protectively around her.
He's a keeper, this one, and Elinor's none too shabby herself, making sure to protect what's hers with no uncertainty in sight, and she lets everyone know she means business.
Getting drunk with Tristan's sister is a highlight, too.
Overall, I LOVED this. The entire series is wonderful, and I really, really wish we get to see more of Tristan and Elinor in future. Because I have a feeling our beloved Duke is going gray sooner than he thinks between the women in his life 🤣
100/10 recommend, from start to finish! And if these get published in physical form I'm buying those, too.
WE DID IT, FAMILY!
Also, Tristan did it. He got his dearest wish - which he's been attempting since forever ago but of course only the threat of prison or worse will convince our Elinor to bend so she doesn't break.
The cliffhanger ending from book 5 is our explosive opening in this final chapter, and OH how absolutely DELICIOUS it is when De Vindt can only sputter while Tristan takes back what belongs to him!
But the sweetness of our two heroes is definitely marred by the betrayal Elinor was warned about - I'M SO MAD AT HIM. THE TRAITOR. THE GALL OF THE MAN. THE AUDACITY.
It's a betrayal for the books, I tell you, but at least there's an ending there and the loop is neatly tied.
Elsewhere, the King is still a spoiled egg-shaped brat, but Elinor's much too smart to kow tow to him! Which is why we love her so much.
More importantly, however, I ADORE the point at which Elinor and Tristan end their (current) journey. We all know Tristan has trust issues, but by the time this book ends he comes home to his wife and her alleged "lover" and is mostly just bored, which I think is a vast step forward for the man. But I'll admit my favourite moments with him are when he lets Elinor in, like a gentle uncertainty about buying her jewellery, or sleeping with his arms protectively around her.
He's a keeper, this one, and Elinor's none too shabby herself, making sure to protect what's hers with no uncertainty in sight, and she lets everyone know she means business.
Getting drunk with Tristan's sister is a highlight, too.
Overall, I LOVED this. The entire series is wonderful, and I really, really wish we get to see more of Tristan and Elinor in future. Because I have a feeling our beloved Duke is going gray sooner than he thinks between the women in his life 🤣
100/10 recommend, from start to finish! And if these get published in physical form I'm buying those, too.
April 15, 2024
“Ghastly Mistake” is a satisfying end to a delightful series. This IS one of those books where much of it won’t make much sense unless you’ve read the other books in the series. All of the books in the series are delightful quick reads.
In this final installment, which picks up where “Haunted Grave” left off, Elinor Chalamet, a Ghost Talker, is accused of murder. Tristan, the Duke de Archambeau, arrives in time to rescue her from the clutches of overzealous law enforcement. They are on the run, but must return to Alenbonne to prove Elinor’s innocence and find Elinor’s apprentice, Twyla. In the course of solving the mystery, Elinor will discover the identity of the person who has been responsible for heinous acts throughout the city, including the murder of her father. Elinor and Tristan race to bring the criminal to justice, but will a petty king stand in their way?
Byrd Nash’s world building is consistent throughout the series and gives the reader a clear picture of the world in which Elinor and Tristan live. The supporting cast of characters is inhabited by treasured friends and evil villains (and everything in between).
This story is great for people who have read the rest of the Ghost Talker series. If you like historical mystery paranormal fantasies with a slow burn romance, check out the series!
I received an advance review copy for free from Byrd Nash, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In this final installment, which picks up where “Haunted Grave” left off, Elinor Chalamet, a Ghost Talker, is accused of murder. Tristan, the Duke de Archambeau, arrives in time to rescue her from the clutches of overzealous law enforcement. They are on the run, but must return to Alenbonne to prove Elinor’s innocence and find Elinor’s apprentice, Twyla. In the course of solving the mystery, Elinor will discover the identity of the person who has been responsible for heinous acts throughout the city, including the murder of her father. Elinor and Tristan race to bring the criminal to justice, but will a petty king stand in their way?
Byrd Nash’s world building is consistent throughout the series and gives the reader a clear picture of the world in which Elinor and Tristan live. The supporting cast of characters is inhabited by treasured friends and evil villains (and everything in between).
This story is great for people who have read the rest of the Ghost Talker series. If you like historical mystery paranormal fantasies with a slow burn romance, check out the series!
I received an advance review copy for free from Byrd Nash, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 16, 2024
Ghastly Mistake is the final book in the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries series. It is a satisfying ending to an engrossing and enjoyable historical fantasy mystery that spread over six books.
The book begins exactly where book five, Haunted Grave, ended. The story does not let up from there. Elinor and Tristan find themselves in situation after situation as they get closer and closer to the villain at the center of all the turmoil and danger.
I don’t like to give details in the reviews of mysteries. This final book does a good job of tying together various threads from the previous entries (which must be read before this installment. It is not a standalone story.) The alternate world Byrd Nash developed is detailed and interesting. The characters are well-drawn, and the romance between Elinor and Tristan is very sweet.
I’ve enjoyed my time in Sarnesse. I will miss Elinor and her world very much.
Thank you to the author for the advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
The book begins exactly where book five, Haunted Grave, ended. The story does not let up from there. Elinor and Tristan find themselves in situation after situation as they get closer and closer to the villain at the center of all the turmoil and danger.
I don’t like to give details in the reviews of mysteries. This final book does a good job of tying together various threads from the previous entries (which must be read before this installment. It is not a standalone story.) The alternate world Byrd Nash developed is detailed and interesting. The characters are well-drawn, and the romance between Elinor and Tristan is very sweet.
I’ve enjoyed my time in Sarnesse. I will miss Elinor and her world very much.
Thank you to the author for the advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
April 8, 2024
This is the last book of the series. I am sad to see it end. It has been quite an adventure. In this final book Elinor finds herself accused of murder. Her apprentice missing, and the discovery that people close to her have betrayed her. But through it all Tristan is by her side.
January 11, 2025
This is fine storytelling, it leaps to life, a page turner you can't set it down. This is the type of book that when it's over you need the next one right away.
May 7, 2024
What a story!
Be prepared - book 6 starts off with a bang and doesn’t stop the entire time.
I’m sad that this is the last book, but the author does a great job closes out story lines in a clear way.
I’d love to see a spin off series of their family. 🫶🏽
Be prepared - book 6 starts off with a bang and doesn’t stop the entire time.
I’m sad that this is the last book, but the author does a great job closes out story lines in a clear way.
I’d love to see a spin off series of their family. 🫶🏽
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2024
Ghastlies, Betrayals, and helpful Ghosts
Parts of the story seemed a little rushed. I was glad there was not a lot of explicit details as the relationship between Elinor and Tristan became more intimate, but it still made me feel uncomfortable. There is some swearing. Elinor doesn’t seem her usual in-charge self in the beginning, she seemed more emotional and needy; perhaps due to her medical condition. Elinor needs to pass through threats from De Windt, betrayals from trusted friends, and machinations from royalty to win her happiness. My favorite parts are Twyla’s rescue and Elinor’s negotiations with the King. Great story.
Parts of the story seemed a little rushed. I was glad there was not a lot of explicit details as the relationship between Elinor and Tristan became more intimate, but it still made me feel uncomfortable. There is some swearing. Elinor doesn’t seem her usual in-charge self in the beginning, she seemed more emotional and needy; perhaps due to her medical condition. Elinor needs to pass through threats from De Windt, betrayals from trusted friends, and machinations from royalty to win her happiness. My favorite parts are Twyla’s rescue and Elinor’s negotiations with the King. Great story.
April 24, 2024
Ghastly Mistake is the 6th and final book of the Madame Chalamet series. All of my favorite characters are woven into the many threads from books 1-5 so skillfully and wrapped the storylines so beautifully I am amazed! I honestly didn’t think it would be possible to complete this multi-faceted story in one episode but, the extremely talented, Byrd Nash, did it. She also managed to mingle in many surprising twists and a marvelous grand finale that I love! I highly recommend this series and hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
Disclaimer: I received this ARC from the author and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
Disclaimer: I received this ARC from the author and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
April 21, 2024
Ghastly Mistake is the 6th and final book in the Madame Chalemet series. I’ve enjoyed this series tremendously and the last book successfully cleared up all the mysteries and threads from the earlier books.
I love Elinor and Tristan! Elinor is a little bit Sherlock Holmes mixed with Amelia Peabody working to solve mysteries in a gaslamp France like setting. She works alongside her love, Tristan, the Duke de Archambeau and is aided by her ability to talk to ghosts and by a variety of friends and allies. The world Nash has created is fascinating and I’d love to have more stories set here!
And I absolutely adored the epilogue- so great!
This book is highly dependent on the earlier books, so don’t start here. All the books are great, though, so start with Ghost Talker!
April 27, 2024
the perfect ending!
I have one issue with the book.. that it’s the last! Wonder if we could get adventures of Twyla or Anne Marie next?!
I have one issue with the book.. that it’s the last! Wonder if we could get adventures of Twyla or Anne Marie next?!
April 26, 2024
Awesome Ending
This book answered every issue. It contained every hope I had for the characters. And the absolute end was masterful. Great series.
This book answered every issue. It contained every hope I had for the characters. And the absolute end was masterful. Great series.
April 16, 2024
Omg such a great series. I'm so sad to see it over. I've loved it all. I think it would be a fabulous movie. If you want a great mystery inside of a mystery then this is the series for you. Then you add the chemistry between Tristan and Elinore and you'll be absolutely in love. I hope we see more of them!
June 8, 2024
It started out "ghastly" but finished beautifully!
I have loved this series right from the first, when I started them as arcs for Brad Nash, and each one has just gotten successively better! The characters are charming, their lives progress in such wonderful ways. And the storylines are fascinating. These "ghastlies", as Charlotte dubbed them, brought and interesting situation to both a head and an ending. This is the last book in the series, which is sad, but am hoping that maybe she carries on with Twyla.
I have loved this series right from the first, when I started them as arcs for Brad Nash, and each one has just gotten successively better! The characters are charming, their lives progress in such wonderful ways. And the storylines are fascinating. These "ghastlies", as Charlotte dubbed them, brought and interesting situation to both a head and an ending. This is the last book in the series, which is sad, but am hoping that maybe she carries on with Twyla.
May 21, 2024
A long tale to end our great series!
This was the lofty capstone to untangle the twists and right the various wrongs of our story-by-installments. This was clever and well written. This satisfying book had unexpected and sometimes amusing twists. I plan to reread this series many times (older age and memory loss are advantages to serious readers). Highly recommended. Brava, author!!
This was the lofty capstone to untangle the twists and right the various wrongs of our story-by-installments. This was clever and well written. This satisfying book had unexpected and sometimes amusing twists. I plan to reread this series many times (older age and memory loss are advantages to serious readers). Highly recommended. Brava, author!!
May 18, 2024
A five-star finish to the series! Everything I could've wanted to put this series to rest.
May 21, 2024
3.5 stars (rounded up)
One Liner: Mixed feelings
Elinor is accused of a murder she didn’t commit. Someone is out to get rid of her, and she must do everything possible to save herself and find the culprit. Tristan is by her side throughout, but the fight is not easy. The King’s life is at risk, Twyla is missing, and past truths are revealed. Elinor’s world turns upside down as they dig deeper.
What will it take to save her dear ones and stay alive?
The story comes in Elinor’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the last book in the series and provides answers to many questions. It cannot and should not read as a standalone. Reviewing the book is hard, as I have to be careful about spoilers for the entire series!
I was excited to read this, knowing that the stakes would be high. Some of my guesses were right (yippee!), which always makes me happy.
The tension is well done. Elinor is snapping and losing her calm. Tristan is terrific, of course. Marcus is one of my favorite characters. That kid will go places! Twyla is another favorite, and I would 1000% love a spin-off with her in the lead role.
The pacing is on the slower side, or so it seems since there’s more planning and waiting. When the action comes, it does deliver to a good extent. I liked some of it but wanted more at other times. That oomph was largely missing this time.
However, the biggest issue is the misalignment between my expectations and the content in the last quarter. Let’s say that some developments were not appealing. Oh, they perfectly align with the character arcs. But did they have to occur that way? Dunno.
When I read the last page of the final book in a series, I want to feel satisfied with how things ended. Here, I can’t really say I am. It feels more like we stopped a few pages away from the kind of HEA I like. Of course, it’s a personal thing, so this could be right up your alley. Still, I’ll add that a spin-off is even more necessary in this case. The end has to be on a high note.
Nevertheless, the book has many good moments and brings everything together nicely. The truth (in various forms) is revealed, and the masks are off.
To summarize, Ghastly Mistake is the finale of the series and brings together the various threads left loose in the previous books. The setting and paranormal elements seamlessly blend as they do throughout. This may not be how I wanted the series to end, but it is a worthy read.
My many thanks to the author for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
One Liner: Mixed feelings
Elinor is accused of a murder she didn’t commit. Someone is out to get rid of her, and she must do everything possible to save herself and find the culprit. Tristan is by her side throughout, but the fight is not easy. The King’s life is at risk, Twyla is missing, and past truths are revealed. Elinor’s world turns upside down as they dig deeper.
What will it take to save her dear ones and stay alive?
The story comes in Elinor’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the last book in the series and provides answers to many questions. It cannot and should not read as a standalone. Reviewing the book is hard, as I have to be careful about spoilers for the entire series!
I was excited to read this, knowing that the stakes would be high. Some of my guesses were right (yippee!), which always makes me happy.
The tension is well done. Elinor is snapping and losing her calm. Tristan is terrific, of course. Marcus is one of my favorite characters. That kid will go places! Twyla is another favorite, and I would 1000% love a spin-off with her in the lead role.
The pacing is on the slower side, or so it seems since there’s more planning and waiting. When the action comes, it does deliver to a good extent. I liked some of it but wanted more at other times. That oomph was largely missing this time.
However, the biggest issue is the misalignment between my expectations and the content in the last quarter. Let’s say that some developments were not appealing. Oh, they perfectly align with the character arcs. But did they have to occur that way? Dunno.
When I read the last page of the final book in a series, I want to feel satisfied with how things ended. Here, I can’t really say I am. It feels more like we stopped a few pages away from the kind of HEA I like. Of course, it’s a personal thing, so this could be right up your alley. Still, I’ll add that a spin-off is even more necessary in this case. The end has to be on a high note.
Nevertheless, the book has many good moments and brings everything together nicely. The truth (in various forms) is revealed, and the masks are off.
To summarize, Ghastly Mistake is the finale of the series and brings together the various threads left loose in the previous books. The setting and paranormal elements seamlessly blend as they do throughout. This may not be how I wanted the series to end, but it is a worthy read.
My many thanks to the author for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
June 21, 2024
Elinor awakes, uncertain of where she is, only to find she is looking at a body and covered in blood. As the guardia break in to arrest her, Tristan, her aristocratic lover, appears to rescue her. Now they are both on the run as the city faces political unrest and chaos as ghastlies, zombie-like creatures, inexplicably fall dead in the streets. When Elinor’s apprentice turns up missing, the search for her, and the quest to clear Elinor of murder charges, leads them closer to the identity of who wishes to overthrow the king and, more important to Elinor, who murdered her father.
This series is set in a world much like our 1900s but also vastly different mixing gaslight and horsedrawn carriages with the acceptance of ghosts as well as the profession of talking to ghosts. Each of the six entries sees one problem resolved while the overall arc begun in the first book - the murder of Elinor’s father as well as the political unrest surrounding the monarchy - moves forward with more revealed each time culminating in a satisfactory final reveal in this entry. Elinor is a character who will long live in my memory and her final manipulation of the king is admirable. This is not a series where you can pick up any book and start, it must be read in order but all the books are quick and enjoyable reads. The series is highly recommended
This series is set in a world much like our 1900s but also vastly different mixing gaslight and horsedrawn carriages with the acceptance of ghosts as well as the profession of talking to ghosts. Each of the six entries sees one problem resolved while the overall arc begun in the first book - the murder of Elinor’s father as well as the political unrest surrounding the monarchy - moves forward with more revealed each time culminating in a satisfactory final reveal in this entry. Elinor is a character who will long live in my memory and her final manipulation of the king is admirable. This is not a series where you can pick up any book and start, it must be read in order but all the books are quick and enjoyable reads. The series is highly recommended
April 10, 2024
Elinor and Tristan are back for the last in this series, and it makes for a very satisfying read. The characters have all developed so well over the previous books, and I would recommend anyone to read them all from the start. Elinor is a great character, feisty, fiercely independent and determined not to become any man’s property but she’d not banked on falling for Tristan though. Whilst he is determined he will always be there for her when she needs him, despite opposition from his family, and at times Elinor herself.
I love the idea of a ghost talker, and how this helps Elinor to help investigate crimes that would otherwise go unsolved. This is a fast paced read that rounds off the series really well. All of the plot lines have been tied up to the readers satisfaction. I just don’t want this to be the last we hear about everyone. Twyla could definitely have a series of her own.
I received a copy of this book via the author to read in exchange for an honest review.
I love the idea of a ghost talker, and how this helps Elinor to help investigate crimes that would otherwise go unsolved. This is a fast paced read that rounds off the series really well. All of the plot lines have been tied up to the readers satisfaction. I just don’t want this to be the last we hear about everyone. Twyla could definitely have a series of her own.
I received a copy of this book via the author to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2024
Series Info/Source: This is the 6th (and final) book in the Madam Chalamet Ghost Mysteries. I bought this on ebook for my Kindle.
Thoughts: This book starts with Elinor waking up next to a dead body and being accused of murder. On top of this citizens are falling dead in the streets and Twyla is missing. Could all of this lead back to a tangled conspiracy involving Elinor's father's death from so long ago?
This was a well done conclusion to this series. I enjoyed watching Elinor and Tristan's relationship proceed to a new level. I also enjoyed how all the previous plot points from earlier in the series are tied together in this book.
I liked the fantasy world here, although it wasn't incredibly well built out and mostly reminds of a Victorian setting. I kept having to remind myself that this wasn't a Victorian historical fantasy. The characters and dialogue are engaging and well done and I enjoyed the light humor throughout. I also enjoyed how Elinor was able to use her ghost talking powers throughout the series.
This was fun, easy to read, and engaging. I would definitely pick up future books by Nash.
My Summary (4/5): Overall this was a very satisfying conclusion to a well done historical fantasy series with heavy ghost themes. I enjoyed the characters, the ghost talking powers, and the humor throughout. I also liked how all the plot points from previous books were woven together in this series. The world building was a bit weak but aside from that I enjoyed this series. I will definitely check out future series by Nash.
Thoughts: This book starts with Elinor waking up next to a dead body and being accused of murder. On top of this citizens are falling dead in the streets and Twyla is missing. Could all of this lead back to a tangled conspiracy involving Elinor's father's death from so long ago?
This was a well done conclusion to this series. I enjoyed watching Elinor and Tristan's relationship proceed to a new level. I also enjoyed how all the previous plot points from earlier in the series are tied together in this book.
I liked the fantasy world here, although it wasn't incredibly well built out and mostly reminds of a Victorian setting. I kept having to remind myself that this wasn't a Victorian historical fantasy. The characters and dialogue are engaging and well done and I enjoyed the light humor throughout. I also enjoyed how Elinor was able to use her ghost talking powers throughout the series.
This was fun, easy to read, and engaging. I would definitely pick up future books by Nash.
My Summary (4/5): Overall this was a very satisfying conclusion to a well done historical fantasy series with heavy ghost themes. I enjoyed the characters, the ghost talking powers, and the humor throughout. I also liked how all the plot points from previous books were woven together in this series. The world building was a bit weak but aside from that I enjoyed this series. I will definitely check out future series by Nash.
April 22, 2024
Final books in a well-liked series are always bittersweet, but they can also provide closure, setting to rights those lingering wrongs, resolving unanswered questions, and assuaging concerns for much loved and respected characters. In this final outing, some lingering questions and relationships are resolved. Certainly Elinor and Tristan remain interesting and much loved characters, and there are moments of satire and humor. Fans of the series definitely will want to read the book. That said, overall the book left me dissatisfied. It is difficult to explain why in any detail without spoilers; so, suffice it to say that I would summarize this book with three words: betrayal and aftermath. Those are not the descriptors I want in a finale. It may be fulfilling to other readers, but I was left disappointed.
I received an ARC of the book from the author.
I received an ARC of the book from the author.
November 20, 2025
Well, that wrapped up nicely. I felt like the first half of the book was more of a continuation of the previous one, and I was a bit bored. (The last book being my least favorite in the series.) But the second half brings Elinor's clever, socially irreverent side back to the fore, and I appreciated that. And the not-Duke is marvelously accepting of her quirks.
I probably could have done without the whole
Like in all the books, there were some copy-edit issues on occasion. But honestly, it wasn't too big a deal. Just enough to notice, really. I'd 100% read another Nash series.
I probably could have done without the whole
Like in all the books, there were some copy-edit issues on occasion. But honestly, it wasn't too big a deal. Just enough to notice, really. I'd 100% read another Nash series.
April 8, 2024
Wow. It was straight into the action with this sixth and final installment of Madame Chalamet. There is so much that I want to say but I don't want to ruin even the tiniest plot detail because my advice to everyone is to start at book 1 and read the entire series. I will be doing exactly that and rereading them all again to see what little details I have missed. Nash has done an outstanding job once again with her wit and talent of telling a story with amazing twists and turns and ensuring that the characters are all well rounded. I love so many of them that I will be sad to stop reading about their lives, both the main and supporting characters. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
April 9, 2024
I have followed the story of this very engaging heroine, Elinor Chalamet, for several years now. This is the final book in the series and it is great, though I can't help but feel that Elinor's story will continue in the fascinating world that Byrd Nash has created. This is not a standalone book. It combines the characters and mysteries that the author conceived in the preceding novels, and weaves them into a very exciting and satisfactory ending. If you like strong heroines, beautifully described settings, handsome men and a few good murder mysteries with a touch of the occult, these books are for you. I received a free prepublication copy of this book, but I would have bought it anyway!
April 25, 2024
A wonderful, if somewhat poignant, conclusion to this fabulous series. I loved watching Elinor and Tristan get their HEA, even if it was a battle to get there sometimes. They are an amazing couple, challenging one another simultaneously as they support and care deeply.
The book was almost non-stop action, with intrigue, peril, secrets and danger at every turn. It was fantastic spending more time with much-loved characters, such as the delightful Twyla, and seeing just how strong a network of friends and colleagues Elinor has.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading The Madame Chalamet series, with its mix of historical fantasy/mystery and paranormal goings-on. The romance was cleverly woven throughout, slow-burn at first but building into the most heart-warming relationship. The mysteries were delightfully layered but also inter-linked, dropping clues and hints to the larger story arc running across the six-book series.
A highly recommended series.
The book was almost non-stop action, with intrigue, peril, secrets and danger at every turn. It was fantastic spending more time with much-loved characters, such as the delightful Twyla, and seeing just how strong a network of friends and colleagues Elinor has.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading The Madame Chalamet series, with its mix of historical fantasy/mystery and paranormal goings-on. The romance was cleverly woven throughout, slow-burn at first but building into the most heart-warming relationship. The mysteries were delightfully layered but also inter-linked, dropping clues and hints to the larger story arc running across the six-book series.
A highly recommended series.
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