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The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House
As the bones start to fall, the spirits will rise…
Norfolk, England, 1895: When renowned spiritualist Edward Blackmore receives a desperate message from his cousin Barnabas, begging him to come to the coastal village of Thistlewick Tye, his first thought is to ignore the request. Despite his cousin’s insistence that his wife is possessed by a malevolent spirit, Edward has no time for the man who stole his inheritance.
Lured by the promise of money, along with a genuine concern for Barnabas’s wife – who he’d once loved – he reluctantly travels to at Thistlewick House, only to arrive too late. Emma is dead.
Barnabas suspects there are supernatural forces at play. But Edward is convinced murder is afoot. As he begins to investigate, he finds himself drawn into the lives of those in this isolated and unnerving village, especially the beguiling woman who gathers up the human bones falling from the rapidly eroding cliffs.
Then he discovers that a travelling circus completely disappeared in the area forty years previously and no one is willing to talk about it. Perhaps not everything at Thistlewick Tye is quite what it seems…
A totally gripping and unmissable historical novel, perfect for reading groups and fans of Louise Douglas, Sarah Waters and Erin Morgenstern, from the bestselling author of No. 23, Burlington Square.
Norfolk, England, 1895: When renowned spiritualist Edward Blackmore receives a desperate message from his cousin Barnabas, begging him to come to the coastal village of Thistlewick Tye, his first thought is to ignore the request. Despite his cousin’s insistence that his wife is possessed by a malevolent spirit, Edward has no time for the man who stole his inheritance.
Lured by the promise of money, along with a genuine concern for Barnabas’s wife – who he’d once loved – he reluctantly travels to at Thistlewick House, only to arrive too late. Emma is dead.
Barnabas suspects there are supernatural forces at play. But Edward is convinced murder is afoot. As he begins to investigate, he finds himself drawn into the lives of those in this isolated and unnerving village, especially the beguiling woman who gathers up the human bones falling from the rapidly eroding cliffs.
Then he discovers that a travelling circus completely disappeared in the area forty years previously and no one is willing to talk about it. Perhaps not everything at Thistlewick Tye is quite what it seems…
A totally gripping and unmissable historical novel, perfect for reading groups and fans of Louise Douglas, Sarah Waters and Erin Morgenstern, from the bestselling author of No. 23, Burlington Square.
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 11, 2025
255 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
August 31, 2025
There's something strange about Thistlewick village and Edward Blackmore is the man to find out what!!
As a man who communicates with the spirits, Edward makes a living from helping grieving families. He lives in London but when he gets a call from his cousin Barnabas, asking for his help with his sick wife, he's in no hurry to go as there is bad blood between them. Eventually after a second plea he decides to help and so begins his mysterious time in Thistlewick.
The story started out very slow and I wondered where it was going but once it took off, WOW what a story it became. The description of the people and the village is wonderfully done. There are some terrific characters. It's an ideal village, everyone lives in harmony, there's a benevolent fund to help anyone in hardship and transgressions are dealt with in the community. It seems almost too good to be true and guess what! it is. A secret from many years ago is about to be unearthed.
There's an atmosphere and tension in the air and you can almost feel it from the author's writing. It's wonderfully creepy at times. There are twists and turns and you never know what's coming next. I guessed at a few things and was wrong and when Edward's secret was exposed I was floored. Didn't see it coming!
This is a fantastic read and perfect for Hallowe'en. The author is a favourite of mine and she's getting better and better with each new book.
I'd highly recommend this one if you like mystery, a little magic and lots of tension with a romance thrown in. Can't wait for her next book!
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for an early copy.
As a man who communicates with the spirits, Edward makes a living from helping grieving families. He lives in London but when he gets a call from his cousin Barnabas, asking for his help with his sick wife, he's in no hurry to go as there is bad blood between them. Eventually after a second plea he decides to help and so begins his mysterious time in Thistlewick.
The story started out very slow and I wondered where it was going but once it took off, WOW what a story it became. The description of the people and the village is wonderfully done. There are some terrific characters. It's an ideal village, everyone lives in harmony, there's a benevolent fund to help anyone in hardship and transgressions are dealt with in the community. It seems almost too good to be true and guess what! it is. A secret from many years ago is about to be unearthed.
There's an atmosphere and tension in the air and you can almost feel it from the author's writing. It's wonderfully creepy at times. There are twists and turns and you never know what's coming next. I guessed at a few things and was wrong and when Edward's secret was exposed I was floored. Didn't see it coming!
This is a fantastic read and perfect for Hallowe'en. The author is a favourite of mine and she's getting better and better with each new book.
I'd highly recommend this one if you like mystery, a little magic and lots of tension with a romance thrown in. Can't wait for her next book!
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for an early copy.
October 12, 2025
Having read several books by this author (but not all – yet!), I have got to the stage where I know I am in for a five star read from Jenni Keer. This book is no exception. It is highly creative and intriguing and, where at first I thought I knew how the story would develop, Keer takes it up a notch with a thrilling and mysterious narrative.
A historical tale, this takes place at the height of seances and the popularity of contacting the dead. Edward is a spiritualist and renowned in London. Receiving a message from his estranged cousin, Edward eventually heads to the Norfolk village of Thistlewick Tye, seeing it as an opportunity to make a “fast buck” and revenge his cousin for previous wrong-doings.
Except that Edward’s experience changes his attitude towards all things ghostly and spiritual. This charlatan is proud of fleecing the rich, ensuring he leads a comfortable lifestyle, and his time at Thistlewick Tye means he can have an even more secure future. Yet, in “contacting” his cousin’s late wife sees Edward uncover the mystery of a travelling circus that came through the village forty years ago. It turns out that there was more to this travelling circus than Thistlewick Tye realised and Edward, as an outsider to this very close-knit community, knows that it is time for the truth to be revealed.
I loved how atmospheric the story is. The remote village is quite isolated and with bones falling on to the beach, it certainly adds a sinister level to a seaside story. It is perfect for Halloween when combined with the spirits and seances, as well as the fact that the village is suffering from deadly influenza. Add in the strong presence of the local vicar, this place may seem perfect and tranquil on the outside, but is clearly harbouring secrets that are buried deep within the community.
The narrative was surprising and I really enjoyed the plot twists and revelations. Keer’s story-telling is immersive and there were plenty of moments where my jaw dropped open in disbelief, finding myself re-reading sections to check I hadn’t got it wrong. What starts as a tragic death of a young woman soon broadens to a whole village mystery and, despite initially disliking Edward for his fakery, I grew to admire his determination for the truth. There is a certain irony that the practice he is faking becomes something more real than he could ever have imagined.
A fantastic read with death, spirits and all things mystical. It’s an atmospheric read that is perfect for this time of year and I loved how creative the plot was. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A historical tale, this takes place at the height of seances and the popularity of contacting the dead. Edward is a spiritualist and renowned in London. Receiving a message from his estranged cousin, Edward eventually heads to the Norfolk village of Thistlewick Tye, seeing it as an opportunity to make a “fast buck” and revenge his cousin for previous wrong-doings.
Except that Edward’s experience changes his attitude towards all things ghostly and spiritual. This charlatan is proud of fleecing the rich, ensuring he leads a comfortable lifestyle, and his time at Thistlewick Tye means he can have an even more secure future. Yet, in “contacting” his cousin’s late wife sees Edward uncover the mystery of a travelling circus that came through the village forty years ago. It turns out that there was more to this travelling circus than Thistlewick Tye realised and Edward, as an outsider to this very close-knit community, knows that it is time for the truth to be revealed.
I loved how atmospheric the story is. The remote village is quite isolated and with bones falling on to the beach, it certainly adds a sinister level to a seaside story. It is perfect for Halloween when combined with the spirits and seances, as well as the fact that the village is suffering from deadly influenza. Add in the strong presence of the local vicar, this place may seem perfect and tranquil on the outside, but is clearly harbouring secrets that are buried deep within the community.
The narrative was surprising and I really enjoyed the plot twists and revelations. Keer’s story-telling is immersive and there were plenty of moments where my jaw dropped open in disbelief, finding myself re-reading sections to check I hadn’t got it wrong. What starts as a tragic death of a young woman soon broadens to a whole village mystery and, despite initially disliking Edward for his fakery, I grew to admire his determination for the truth. There is a certain irony that the practice he is faking becomes something more real than he could ever have imagined.
A fantastic read with death, spirits and all things mystical. It’s an atmospheric read that is perfect for this time of year and I loved how creative the plot was. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this ARC. The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is set to be published October 11, 2025.
Jenni Keer is the queen of mixing magic and historical fiction. I've only read two of her books, as I just recently discovered her, but both have been awesome.
In her newest novel, The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House, we follow Edward Blackmore as he looks to find the cause death of his cousin's wife, Emma. The book is set in 1895 in England, and spiritualism is still looked down on in most parts. Edward has made his living by communicating with the dead, and he is tasked with finding out what really happened to Emma.
Edward has been living a life of secrets, and was never really accepted in his family. In fact, his father willed everything to his cousin instead. When Edward comes home to Thistlewick, he is faced with coming clean on his profession, plus his other secret he has been hiding his whole life. While coming to terms with who he is, he learns of possessions that have been happening, and due to meeting those spirits, finds his true self and happiness.
This is a 5/5 star read. Excellent for your autumn reading, and I 100% recommend picking up a copy when it is released.
Jenni Keer is the queen of mixing magic and historical fiction. I've only read two of her books, as I just recently discovered her, but both have been awesome.
In her newest novel, The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House, we follow Edward Blackmore as he looks to find the cause death of his cousin's wife, Emma. The book is set in 1895 in England, and spiritualism is still looked down on in most parts. Edward has made his living by communicating with the dead, and he is tasked with finding out what really happened to Emma.
Edward has been living a life of secrets, and was never really accepted in his family. In fact, his father willed everything to his cousin instead. When Edward comes home to Thistlewick, he is faced with coming clean on his profession, plus his other secret he has been hiding his whole life. While coming to terms with who he is, he learns of possessions that have been happening, and due to meeting those spirits, finds his true self and happiness.
This is a 5/5 star read. Excellent for your autumn reading, and I 100% recommend picking up a copy when it is released.
October 9, 2025
Spiritualist Edward Blackmore is called to the house of his cousin Barnabas, whose wife Emma seems to be possessed by a spirit. Edward can think of many, many things he’d rather do than help his cousin who did him wrong years ago. But he travels to Thistlewick Tye anyway since he was once rather fond of Emma. Unfortunately, by the time Edward arrives, she has died, leaving Barnabas heartbroken but still convinced his wife had been possessed. However, Edward is convinced Emma was murdered. If so, by whom and why?
The coastal village of Thistlewick Tye might sound like a wonderful place but all is not quite as it seems. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out there is a rather odd atmosphere hanging over this village. It’s nearly giving off cultish vibes, and it feels as if stepping one foot out of line could have dire consequences. Behind the beguiling facade lies a shedload of manipulation and brainwashing. A place where men – it’s always them, isn’t it? – use religion to exert power over what they consider to be their dominion. Needless to say they do not look kindly upon strangers trying to poke their noses into everyone’s business.
To understand what happened to Emma, the story needs to take the reader back nearly forty years ago when a traveling circus put up its tents near the village. Life on the road was hard. Long hours for little pay, for instance. But for many who didn’t fit in anywhere else, it was the only place where they felt they belonged and a place they could call home. They were a family, a concept that is rather unfamiliar to Edward. Then, one day, just like that, the circus disappeared and nobody in this strange village is willing to take about that.
An ugly secret is hidden away near the eroding cliffs of the village. Whose bones are falling onto the beach? Who is the woman who is gathering them up, and why is she doing that anyway? Bit of a slightly morbid hobby, wouldn’t you say? Edward finds himself rather intrigued by it all and is eager to uncover all the skeletons in the closet – or the cliffs as it were. But, Edward is hiding a secret of his own. One which, if it were to come out, would make him stand out like a sore thumb. Still, Edward will learn things about himself and his life, which will help him figure out what matters most. Surprisingly, it might not actually be revenge on his cousin for stealing his inheritance.
‘The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House‘ has a rather profound message wrapped up in the most delightful mystery. There are valuable lessons to be learned here in that whole never-judge-a-book-by-its-cover kind of way. I grew quite fond of these characters. Not only did I obviously desperately want to know what had happened, but I also hoped for a happy ending somehow. Sometimes it’s a sad tale, but mostly I found it genuinely heartwarming and the fabulous supernatural vibe had me entirely captivated. Jenni Keer knocked it out of the park again with this one and I very much look forward to what’s next.
The coastal village of Thistlewick Tye might sound like a wonderful place but all is not quite as it seems. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out there is a rather odd atmosphere hanging over this village. It’s nearly giving off cultish vibes, and it feels as if stepping one foot out of line could have dire consequences. Behind the beguiling facade lies a shedload of manipulation and brainwashing. A place where men – it’s always them, isn’t it? – use religion to exert power over what they consider to be their dominion. Needless to say they do not look kindly upon strangers trying to poke their noses into everyone’s business.
To understand what happened to Emma, the story needs to take the reader back nearly forty years ago when a traveling circus put up its tents near the village. Life on the road was hard. Long hours for little pay, for instance. But for many who didn’t fit in anywhere else, it was the only place where they felt they belonged and a place they could call home. They were a family, a concept that is rather unfamiliar to Edward. Then, one day, just like that, the circus disappeared and nobody in this strange village is willing to take about that.
An ugly secret is hidden away near the eroding cliffs of the village. Whose bones are falling onto the beach? Who is the woman who is gathering them up, and why is she doing that anyway? Bit of a slightly morbid hobby, wouldn’t you say? Edward finds himself rather intrigued by it all and is eager to uncover all the skeletons in the closet – or the cliffs as it were. But, Edward is hiding a secret of his own. One which, if it were to come out, would make him stand out like a sore thumb. Still, Edward will learn things about himself and his life, which will help him figure out what matters most. Surprisingly, it might not actually be revenge on his cousin for stealing his inheritance.
‘The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House‘ has a rather profound message wrapped up in the most delightful mystery. There are valuable lessons to be learned here in that whole never-judge-a-book-by-its-cover kind of way. I grew quite fond of these characters. Not only did I obviously desperately want to know what had happened, but I also hoped for a happy ending somehow. Sometimes it’s a sad tale, but mostly I found it genuinely heartwarming and the fabulous supernatural vibe had me entirely captivated. Jenni Keer knocked it out of the park again with this one and I very much look forward to what’s next.
January 26, 2026
I really enjoyed this one! It's a Gothic mystery that features intriguing, characters and interesting supernatural elements. It's well paced with a compelling plot that kept me entertained all the way through. It's subtly unsettling, but not a horror story.. Despite instances of darkness and tragedy, the conclusion is ultimately satisfying.
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is a rather charming and enjoyable read, featuring distinctive characters and a captivating setting.
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is a rather charming and enjoyable read, featuring distinctive characters and a captivating setting.
October 8, 2025
The moment I first saw this enchanting cover and read the blurb I just knew I have to read this book! Historical fiction is definitely not a genre I read often but I have no idea why as earlier this year I realized just how much I enjoy them and I want to read more of the genre.
I loved the main characters so much! They were such interesting and unique characters, I had slowly fallen in love with. I even cried multiple times!
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐰𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 was a mesmerizing novel I couldn't put down. It was mysterious, atmospheric and so special with many unexpected twists. The novel had a deeper message I absolutely loved and agreed with.
I highly recommend reading this novel to lovers of mysterious historical fiction reads!
I loved the main characters so much! They were such interesting and unique characters, I had slowly fallen in love with. I even cried multiple times!
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐰𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 was a mesmerizing novel I couldn't put down. It was mysterious, atmospheric and so special with many unexpected twists. The novel had a deeper message I absolutely loved and agreed with.
I highly recommend reading this novel to lovers of mysterious historical fiction reads!
October 3, 2025
How does she do it? This is another exhilarating drama from Jenni Keer! I was truly captivated by this paranormal riveting twisty plot and mesmerised by the fascinating multi-layered characters. The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is well named as it definitely is unconventional in its direction and turn of events. It certainly kept me guessing as to which way it was going to head thus making it a fun read. Original and persuasive definitely are two words I would use to describe it. It made me believe in this spiritual story world as I was completely engaged from the first page to the last!
The setting is Norfolk, England 1895. Edward Blackmore is a famous spiritualist but not quite what he seems. A man who appears to have everything in material possessions but does not have love. The backstory of his childhood is quite tragic actually. Although he is an affectionate person, ‘he’d spent his childhood surrounded by few people he would lavish his affections on.’ He carries the burden of a heavy secret (or two) that if exposed could ruin his reputation. We learn that Edward’s father was so ashamed of him that he gave his inheritance to another relative—cousin Barnabas: who not only stole Edward’s birthright but also the woman he loved. And if that wasn’t bad enough, in a short space of time Barnabas ruined the family business and sold off the homestead. While facing utter financial loss, Emma stepped in and rescued him. Once they got married, they moved into Thistlewick House.
Edward keeps his distance from his cousin for many years, until he receives a letter from Barnabas begging him to come quickly to Thistlewick House. Emma has fallen ill and now in a dire condition. His cousin informs Edward that Emma insists her name is Esfir and is threatening to kill all the household. Barnabas believes his wife is possessed by the spirit of a dead person and that Edward is the only one who can help since he is a spiritualist. Edward initially does not want to go but the offering of money and his past love of Emma draws him to Thistlewick House. While there, unusual activity happens. It is the beginning of his journey into a bizarre series of events that led to a crime that occurred in the past with a group of circus people. We are able to go back in time and get the backstory to understand how this terrible event transpired and believe me, it is a fascinating and frightening tale!
In the midst of Edward searching for facts, he becomes a target which leads him to a woman who will mean more to him than he ever imagined. I will say no more but all the bizarre threads come together amazingly well by the end. I encourage everyone who loves an exceptionally written mystery with paranormal activity to get a copy of this novel. You will be hooked by this unique, complex, intriguing tale that had me hanging on every word. Great ending, too! Highly recommend. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC.
The setting is Norfolk, England 1895. Edward Blackmore is a famous spiritualist but not quite what he seems. A man who appears to have everything in material possessions but does not have love. The backstory of his childhood is quite tragic actually. Although he is an affectionate person, ‘he’d spent his childhood surrounded by few people he would lavish his affections on.’ He carries the burden of a heavy secret (or two) that if exposed could ruin his reputation. We learn that Edward’s father was so ashamed of him that he gave his inheritance to another relative—cousin Barnabas: who not only stole Edward’s birthright but also the woman he loved. And if that wasn’t bad enough, in a short space of time Barnabas ruined the family business and sold off the homestead. While facing utter financial loss, Emma stepped in and rescued him. Once they got married, they moved into Thistlewick House.
Edward keeps his distance from his cousin for many years, until he receives a letter from Barnabas begging him to come quickly to Thistlewick House. Emma has fallen ill and now in a dire condition. His cousin informs Edward that Emma insists her name is Esfir and is threatening to kill all the household. Barnabas believes his wife is possessed by the spirit of a dead person and that Edward is the only one who can help since he is a spiritualist. Edward initially does not want to go but the offering of money and his past love of Emma draws him to Thistlewick House. While there, unusual activity happens. It is the beginning of his journey into a bizarre series of events that led to a crime that occurred in the past with a group of circus people. We are able to go back in time and get the backstory to understand how this terrible event transpired and believe me, it is a fascinating and frightening tale!
In the midst of Edward searching for facts, he becomes a target which leads him to a woman who will mean more to him than he ever imagined. I will say no more but all the bizarre threads come together amazingly well by the end. I encourage everyone who loves an exceptionally written mystery with paranormal activity to get a copy of this novel. You will be hooked by this unique, complex, intriguing tale that had me hanging on every word. Great ending, too! Highly recommend. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC.
September 21, 2025
Jenni Keer's books have a wonderfully magical quality, and they are infinitely readable because of the amazing storytelling!
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is a brilliantly written historical story of some mysterious goings on in the small village of Thistlewick.
Edward Blackmore, a communicator with spirits, and a lauded presence in London, is summoned to the home of his cousin, whose wife is undergoing some creepy changes after a bout of illness. Though he is reluctant to go, the pull is too strong and he arrives, finding himself in the thick of some extremely strange and unexplainable happenings.
Edward is a man with his own secrets, and though there is no love lost between him and the cousin he visits to help, they still have a bond which helps through the solving of the mystery.
It's not a dual timeline book, but there is a section where we go back 40 years, to unravel secrets, and we are treated to circuses, strange exhibits, and a village intent on being the purest place ever...
A fabulous book, with spooky goings on that keep the pages turning, and a great read for the autumn season, and the eeriness of Halloween!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is a brilliantly written historical story of some mysterious goings on in the small village of Thistlewick.
Edward Blackmore, a communicator with spirits, and a lauded presence in London, is summoned to the home of his cousin, whose wife is undergoing some creepy changes after a bout of illness. Though he is reluctant to go, the pull is too strong and he arrives, finding himself in the thick of some extremely strange and unexplainable happenings.
Edward is a man with his own secrets, and though there is no love lost between him and the cousin he visits to help, they still have a bond which helps through the solving of the mystery.
It's not a dual timeline book, but there is a section where we go back 40 years, to unravel secrets, and we are treated to circuses, strange exhibits, and a village intent on being the purest place ever...
A fabulous book, with spooky goings on that keep the pages turning, and a great read for the autumn season, and the eeriness of Halloween!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
December 28, 2025
A very intriguing and creepy supernatural mystery. Emma Shaw is taken ill with a fever, she seems to make a recovery but she is rambling nonsense. Her husband Barnabas believes she has been possessed by a malevolent spirit and calls upon his estranged cousin Edward for help. Edward is a well-known spiritualist who communicates with the dead. Can he help solve the mystery of Emma's untimely death?
I enjoyed this book and wasn't sure how the story was going to play out. I preferred the second half of the book, especially the chapters set around the circus.
The setting of the cliffside town was very atmospheric and the close-knit community made the story more intriguing as it wasn't obvious who could be trusted!
I enjoyed this book and wasn't sure how the story was going to play out. I preferred the second half of the book, especially the chapters set around the circus.
The setting of the cliffside town was very atmospheric and the close-knit community made the story more intriguing as it wasn't obvious who could be trusted!
December 1, 2025
I didn't want this book to end.
Adored the characters from.the start.
Adored the characters from.the start.
September 18, 2025
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House by Jenni Keer is a quirky and entertaining read with well-fleshed-out characters and an engaging setting. I enjoyed the atmosphere of the house, the circus element, and the eccentric cast, which kept the story lively. Though it is not a deeply memorable book for me, the twists were enough to keep me entertained, and despite the gothic setup, it never felt terrifying—but definitely peculiar indeed. With its surprising timeline shifts, touches of romance, and cozy resolution, it offers a unique spin on the 19th-century mystery, balancing darker themes with warmth.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC. This is my honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC. This is my honest review.
December 15, 2025
Edward Blackmore is much in demand for putting people in touch with the departed – a lucrative profession, although his talents may not be all they appear to be. But it’s been a way of recovering his losses since his rightful inheritance unexpectedly passed to his cousin Barnabas – who also married Emma, the only woman he once thought might make him want to reveal both his professional and personal secrets. So when Barnabas seeks his help after Emma’s death – and he discovers that she seemed to have been possessed by a malevolent spirit before she died – he’s initially reluctant, but decides to travel to their home (and his former home) at Thistlewick Tye in rural Norfolk. But things get stranger – it soon appears that she didn’t die by her own hand as everyone originally believed, but that she might have been murdered.
While Edward has his own tightly guarded secrets, so does Thistlewick Tye. It’s a close-knit community, where people’s behaviour seems to be being controlled by its religious leaders – its whole atmosphere is distinctly unsettling, and more than a little threatening. Walking below its cliffs, slowly eroding, Edward spots some buried bones being picked up by an eccentric woman who lives on the village’s fringes – and it soon becomes evident that there are many, and that they are human. And that gradually sets him on the trail of a travelling circus who pitched up at the village forty years earlier – a group of people who mysteriously and suddenly disappeared.
This really was such a wonderful read. Unlikeable at first, Edward finds redemption – and an unexpected measure of happiness – as he doggedly pursues the truth behind both Emma’s possession and the falling bones, uncovering the complex links between past and present. There are particularly well handled supernatural elements – disturbing, but not nightmare inducing – made to feel entirely believable. And then there are the insights into life with the travelling circus – wonderfully researched and perfectly drawn, the individuals who lived on society’s edges brought vividly to life in all their strangeness, along with a real sense of their caring and love for each other. And there are the many messages too – including the need to dig beneath the surface, not to jump to the more obvious conclusions, and not judging things (or people) by appearance.
The whole mystery is totally engrossing, filled with the most shocking and unexpected twists and turns – and as a reader I felt totally drawn in, barely drawing breath as the pieces slowly fell into place. And every single character in the book is so wonderfully drawn – and all the emotional touches are quite perfect. I really cared about the individuals and wanted to know the full story – however uncomfortable finding out might prove to be.
A totally captivating read, perfectly paced and quite unputdownable – one everyone should add to their reading list, and the best this superb author has ever written. I loved every moment…
While Edward has his own tightly guarded secrets, so does Thistlewick Tye. It’s a close-knit community, where people’s behaviour seems to be being controlled by its religious leaders – its whole atmosphere is distinctly unsettling, and more than a little threatening. Walking below its cliffs, slowly eroding, Edward spots some buried bones being picked up by an eccentric woman who lives on the village’s fringes – and it soon becomes evident that there are many, and that they are human. And that gradually sets him on the trail of a travelling circus who pitched up at the village forty years earlier – a group of people who mysteriously and suddenly disappeared.
This really was such a wonderful read. Unlikeable at first, Edward finds redemption – and an unexpected measure of happiness – as he doggedly pursues the truth behind both Emma’s possession and the falling bones, uncovering the complex links between past and present. There are particularly well handled supernatural elements – disturbing, but not nightmare inducing – made to feel entirely believable. And then there are the insights into life with the travelling circus – wonderfully researched and perfectly drawn, the individuals who lived on society’s edges brought vividly to life in all their strangeness, along with a real sense of their caring and love for each other. And there are the many messages too – including the need to dig beneath the surface, not to jump to the more obvious conclusions, and not judging things (or people) by appearance.
The whole mystery is totally engrossing, filled with the most shocking and unexpected twists and turns – and as a reader I felt totally drawn in, barely drawing breath as the pieces slowly fell into place. And every single character in the book is so wonderfully drawn – and all the emotional touches are quite perfect. I really cared about the individuals and wanted to know the full story – however uncomfortable finding out might prove to be.
A totally captivating read, perfectly paced and quite unputdownable – one everyone should add to their reading list, and the best this superb author has ever written. I loved every moment…
December 4, 2025
I picked this up because I wanted a simple, undemanding mystery. So I did expect the characters to be cliches, the twists obvious, and the writing unimpressive. What I did not expect was the spoon-feeding, and one of the most annoying main characters I've ever come across. He is a whiny, petty, arrogant manchild that never becomes likeable. He thinks only of himself, has no personality except being angry at the world, and his supposed interest in others come from selfish reasons (). It was very hard to believe he was written by a woman.
A proper editor would've cut the text way shorter, and then it would probably work. The story about a perfect village with a dark secret is a classic, and the whole spirit business is a decent idea. It's a shame that it was drowned in insufferable inner monologues, unmotivated actions, and feeding the reader with the biggest spoon in the cupboard. Strange that this was published so unpolished.
Also, I was very disappointed in the main character's secret. One, I really don't think he could've hid it that well. Two, for a bit I was sure , and when he wasn't, I lost interest.
A proper editor would've cut the text way shorter, and then it would probably work. The story about a perfect village with a dark secret is a classic, and the whole spirit business is a decent idea. It's a shame that it was drowned in insufferable inner monologues, unmotivated actions, and feeding the reader with the biggest spoon in the cupboard. Strange that this was published so unpolished.
Also, I was very disappointed in the main character's secret. One, I really don't think he could've hid it that well. Two, for a bit I was sure , and when he wasn't, I lost interest.
November 3, 2025
Edward Blackmore makes his living as a spiritualist after losing his inheritance to his cousin, Barnabas. When Edward receives an urgent plea from his cousin to travel to his home in Thistlewick Tye to help his wife, Emma, Edward’s initial response was to refuse point blank. Barnabas believes Emma is possessed by an evil spirit and all his hopes were pinned on Edward. The concern Edward felt for Emma, and sweetened by the money Barnabas promised, was enough to change his mind.
By the time Edward arrived in Thistlewick Tye it was it too late for Emma. Barnabas is distraught and firmly believes his wife was possessed, Edward however didn’t think so. He was more inclined to think it was murder but couldn’t think of any reason someone would want to kill Emma. Another strange possession and death occurs in the usually quiet village and bones are unearthed from the cliff above the beach during storms. Edward is determined to find out what is going on in this strange place, managing to put himself in danger along the way.
Thistlewick Tye appears to be an idyllic village where everyone lives in harmony, except for a strange woman who lives on the outskirts, collecting bones and other objects that appear on the beach, and is shunned by the villagers. As the story unfolds we travel back forty years to when a circus came to the village. Thistlewick Tye and its inhabitants aren’t quite what they seem. But then again, neither is Edward.
There’s a real mix of well defined characters in this book, from Edward who has kept a secret for most of his life, to the circus performers and the residents of Thistlewick Tye, highlighting the dangers of intolerance, fanaticism, hatred and distrust for anyone who is different. I enjoyed the way suspense gradually builds as the characters’ stories unfold. The prose is evocative and compelling, the plot full of twists and I enjoyed how Edward and the person who ‘saved’ him evolved.
I loved this book and the supernatural element. Jenni Keer always manages to surprise me, in a very good way, and The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House was no exception. Looking forward to the next one!
By the time Edward arrived in Thistlewick Tye it was it too late for Emma. Barnabas is distraught and firmly believes his wife was possessed, Edward however didn’t think so. He was more inclined to think it was murder but couldn’t think of any reason someone would want to kill Emma. Another strange possession and death occurs in the usually quiet village and bones are unearthed from the cliff above the beach during storms. Edward is determined to find out what is going on in this strange place, managing to put himself in danger along the way.
Thistlewick Tye appears to be an idyllic village where everyone lives in harmony, except for a strange woman who lives on the outskirts, collecting bones and other objects that appear on the beach, and is shunned by the villagers. As the story unfolds we travel back forty years to when a circus came to the village. Thistlewick Tye and its inhabitants aren’t quite what they seem. But then again, neither is Edward.
There’s a real mix of well defined characters in this book, from Edward who has kept a secret for most of his life, to the circus performers and the residents of Thistlewick Tye, highlighting the dangers of intolerance, fanaticism, hatred and distrust for anyone who is different. I enjoyed the way suspense gradually builds as the characters’ stories unfold. The prose is evocative and compelling, the plot full of twists and I enjoyed how Edward and the person who ‘saved’ him evolved.
I loved this book and the supernatural element. Jenni Keer always manages to surprise me, in a very good way, and The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House was no exception. Looking forward to the next one!
October 11, 2025
Jenni Keer has done it again! The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House completely swept me away.
From a fraudulent medium with his own secret, to an opportunist man who comes across his downfall, the characters in this dual timeline book were eccentric, warm, flawed and all desperately searching for family and someone to love them.
What I liked was how the village of Thistlewick Tye, with its many quirks and so-called godliness, came alive on the page. The atmosphere is so rich, you can almost feel the weight of history pressing down on the place, and that sense of something lingering just beneath the surface gave me chills in the best possible way.
The decades-old tragedy at the heart of the book had me hooked straight away. I loved piecing the clues together and watching the past slowly reveal itself. The mystery was heartbreaking but also deeply satisfying to unravel, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages until I knew the truth.
And those hints of the paranormal! They were subtle, just enough to keep me on edge and make me question what was real and what might be something otherworldly. For me, that added so much to the story, I get a real thrill out of books that weave in ghostly whispers and unexplained shadows alongside human secrets. I certainly know a lot more about how old charlatans managed their tricks!
This isn’t a light-hearted tale, but that’s exactly what I wanted. It’s haunting, atmospheric, and left me thinking about the story long after I finished.
If you’re like me and you love mysteries with a tragic past, layers of secrets, and a brush of the paranormal, The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is an absolute must-read. I thank Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC of this little smasher!
From a fraudulent medium with his own secret, to an opportunist man who comes across his downfall, the characters in this dual timeline book were eccentric, warm, flawed and all desperately searching for family and someone to love them.
What I liked was how the village of Thistlewick Tye, with its many quirks and so-called godliness, came alive on the page. The atmosphere is so rich, you can almost feel the weight of history pressing down on the place, and that sense of something lingering just beneath the surface gave me chills in the best possible way.
The decades-old tragedy at the heart of the book had me hooked straight away. I loved piecing the clues together and watching the past slowly reveal itself. The mystery was heartbreaking but also deeply satisfying to unravel, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages until I knew the truth.
And those hints of the paranormal! They were subtle, just enough to keep me on edge and make me question what was real and what might be something otherworldly. For me, that added so much to the story, I get a real thrill out of books that weave in ghostly whispers and unexplained shadows alongside human secrets. I certainly know a lot more about how old charlatans managed their tricks!
This isn’t a light-hearted tale, but that’s exactly what I wanted. It’s haunting, atmospheric, and left me thinking about the story long after I finished.
If you’re like me and you love mysteries with a tragic past, layers of secrets, and a brush of the paranormal, The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is an absolute must-read. I thank Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC of this little smasher!
October 7, 2025
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House checks a lot of genre boxes, including historical fiction, mystery, and romance. The novel principally follows Edward, a thirty-something year fraudulent but well acclaimed clairvoyant in London. Despite their years long feud, his cousin, Barnabas, calls upon Edward to come out to his estate in Norfolk after the death of his beloved wife, Emma. Barnabas believes Emma was murdered by some kind of malevolent spirit, and that Edward can get to the bottom of the mystery of her death using his lauded talents.
What Edward and his new friends in Norfolk discover is a mystery much deeper and darker than they initially believed. The skeletal remains of secretly buried folk have been falling into the sea due to coastal erosion and poor weather, releasing secrets that have been buried for decades. In order to confront the spirits that roam the small coastal town, Edward has to dig within himself to discover who he truly is, and what is truly important to him: wealth and revenge, or honesty and human connection?
The book started and ended strong, with just a bit of meandering in the middle. There were a handful of plot twists that were engaging and unexpected. Each of the characters’ arcs were logical and satisfying to witness. Edward himself was a great main character, complex and interesting to follow – even when I was frustrated with him.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an Advanced Reader’s Copy in exchange for an honest review.
What Edward and his new friends in Norfolk discover is a mystery much deeper and darker than they initially believed. The skeletal remains of secretly buried folk have been falling into the sea due to coastal erosion and poor weather, releasing secrets that have been buried for decades. In order to confront the spirits that roam the small coastal town, Edward has to dig within himself to discover who he truly is, and what is truly important to him: wealth and revenge, or honesty and human connection?
The book started and ended strong, with just a bit of meandering in the middle. There were a handful of plot twists that were engaging and unexpected. Each of the characters’ arcs were logical and satisfying to witness. Edward himself was a great main character, complex and interesting to follow – even when I was frustrated with him.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an Advanced Reader’s Copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2025
3,5/5 stars
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC.
I was lured in by this gorgeous cover and intriguing synopsis, and I'm not at all disappointed with the read!
The author's writing style is clean, serious and fits perfectly with the era the book is set in (it spans from 1845 to 1885, roughly). Not once did I think, "this just doesn't sound historically accurate" or "these characters sound like teenagers". Everything, from the characters' personalities, to the description of the landscapes of Thistlewick Tye, was meticulously crafted and researched. It makes The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House very immersive for the reader, and I was sad to leave the little coastal town with bones falling in the sea.
The characters are lots of fun; you have a little bit of everything, and I was never bored with one of them, as they were full of surprises all along, while still being realistic and not leaving any plot holes for the reader to fill. My only regret is that I had another completely different idea for Edward's condition, and that Edward and Mallory did not have that much chemistry, and the romance felt a bit rushed.
The plot in itself was intriguing, though sometimes a bit unrealistic: why would the circus members eat stuff from the villagers after so many threats against them? It made the final revelations a bit unsavory, though I liked seeing the members find each other again throughout the book.
This was a good read, perfect for the autumnal season.
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC.
I was lured in by this gorgeous cover and intriguing synopsis, and I'm not at all disappointed with the read!
The author's writing style is clean, serious and fits perfectly with the era the book is set in (it spans from 1845 to 1885, roughly). Not once did I think, "this just doesn't sound historically accurate" or "these characters sound like teenagers". Everything, from the characters' personalities, to the description of the landscapes of Thistlewick Tye, was meticulously crafted and researched. It makes The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House very immersive for the reader, and I was sad to leave the little coastal town with bones falling in the sea.
The characters are lots of fun; you have a little bit of everything, and I was never bored with one of them, as they were full of surprises all along, while still being realistic and not leaving any plot holes for the reader to fill. My only regret is that I had another completely different idea for Edward's condition, and that Edward and Mallory did not have that much chemistry, and the romance felt a bit rushed.
The plot in itself was intriguing, though sometimes a bit unrealistic: why would the circus members eat stuff from the villagers after so many threats against them? It made the final revelations a bit unsavory, though I liked seeing the members find each other again throughout the book.
This was a good read, perfect for the autumnal season.
August 23, 2025
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is the perfect book for autumn, set on the windswept coast of Norfolk, where fossils and more recent human bones are found in the eroding cliffs. Adding to the gothic atmosphere are the strange possessions of the recently dead in the village of Thistlewick Tye, and a spiritualist claiming to speak with the dead. There are many secrets in this village, and someone will kill to keep them hidden. And, even better for an autumn book, there's real magic too.
This story twists and turns, with characters you will love and some so despicable their evilness oozes off the pages. Ultimately, this is about the intolerance for people who are different and the danger of religious fanaticism. Even though this book is set in the 19th century, many of the individuals in the traveling circus would still be ostracized for physical deformities or being foreigners. I loved that the circus performers had created their own family unit, genuinely caring for each other. When I had almost finished the book and thought I had figured everything out, there was an unexpected twist...I love when that happens. The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewood House is the first book I've read by Jenni Keer, but won't be the last. I highly recommend this spooky, gothic story of transmigration and buried secrets.
My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read the ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
This story twists and turns, with characters you will love and some so despicable their evilness oozes off the pages. Ultimately, this is about the intolerance for people who are different and the danger of religious fanaticism. Even though this book is set in the 19th century, many of the individuals in the traveling circus would still be ostracized for physical deformities or being foreigners. I loved that the circus performers had created their own family unit, genuinely caring for each other. When I had almost finished the book and thought I had figured everything out, there was an unexpected twist...I love when that happens. The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewood House is the first book I've read by Jenni Keer, but won't be the last. I highly recommend this spooky, gothic story of transmigration and buried secrets.
My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read the ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
October 12, 2025
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
This story takes place in 1895, when renowned spiritualist Edward Blackmore receives a desperate message from his cousin Barnabas, pleading for him to come to his home in the coastal village of Thistlewick Tye. Barnabas insists his wife is possessed by a malevolent spirit. Edward ignores the missive, still bitter because Barnabas stole his inheritance. By the time he finally relents, Emma is dead. Barnabas suspects there are supernatural forces at play. But Edward is convinced murder is afoot. As Edward begins investigating he finds himself drawn into the lives of those in this isolated and unnerving village, especially the beguiling woman who gathers up the human bones falling from the rapidly eroding cliffs. Then he discovers that a travelling circus completely disappeared in the area forty years previously and no one is willing to talk about it. Perhaps not everything at Thistlewick Tye is quite what it seems…
I always enjoy this author's books. This one was good, but not my favorite. It was a slow burn for the first 1/3 of the book. After that, the story picked up the pace and became more interesting. Edward was a charlatan - he had no real powers as a spiritualist, and merely conned people for their money. He was a thoroughly unlikeable person, but he did redeem himself in the end. Overall, this is a solid 4 out of 5.
This story takes place in 1895, when renowned spiritualist Edward Blackmore receives a desperate message from his cousin Barnabas, pleading for him to come to his home in the coastal village of Thistlewick Tye. Barnabas insists his wife is possessed by a malevolent spirit. Edward ignores the missive, still bitter because Barnabas stole his inheritance. By the time he finally relents, Emma is dead. Barnabas suspects there are supernatural forces at play. But Edward is convinced murder is afoot. As Edward begins investigating he finds himself drawn into the lives of those in this isolated and unnerving village, especially the beguiling woman who gathers up the human bones falling from the rapidly eroding cliffs. Then he discovers that a travelling circus completely disappeared in the area forty years previously and no one is willing to talk about it. Perhaps not everything at Thistlewick Tye is quite what it seems…
I always enjoy this author's books. This one was good, but not my favorite. It was a slow burn for the first 1/3 of the book. After that, the story picked up the pace and became more interesting. Edward was a charlatan - he had no real powers as a spiritualist, and merely conned people for their money. He was a thoroughly unlikeable person, but he did redeem himself in the end. Overall, this is a solid 4 out of 5.
January 20, 2026
In this fun new historical mystery from Jenni Keer, readers travel to Norfolk, England, in 1895 where renowned spiritualist Edward Blackmore’s cousin Barnabas lives. In Thistlewick Tye, Barnabas claims that his wife is possessed, and Edward has no desire to help the cousin that stole his fortune -- except he’s genuinely worried for Emma and wants the family fortune back. When he arrives, Emma is dead, and Edward starts to investigate what he believes to be a murder, and this case will only pull him further into the lives of the strange village residents in this eerie and thrilling new novel. The mystery at the heart of the book is fascinating and entertaining, while the complex character relationships and strange and unlikeable characters add some incredible complexity to the story. The setting is appropriately remote, Gothic, and strange, and the mix of spiritualism and detective work adds some unique complexities to the story that readers will love. The characters really bring the story to life, and the mystery itself is well-written in ways that will keep readers guessing for the entire length of the book. With high stakes, complex characters, and a detailed setting, readers will love Jenni Keer’s latest historical mystery novel and its gothic atmosphere.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
August 23, 2025
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewick House is a deliciously eerie blend of historical mystery and gothic whimsy, set against the crumbling cliffs and secrets of 1895 Norfolk. Jenni Keer conjures a world where bones fall from the earth, spirits whisper through the walls, and the past refuses to stay buried.
Edward Blackmore, a reluctant spiritualist with a tangled past, arrives at Thistlewick House expecting theatrics—but finds death, suspicion, and a village steeped in silence. What unfolds is a story stitched with grief, guilt, and the uncanny, as Edward unravels not only the mystery of his cousin’s wife, but the haunting legacy of a vanished circus and a woman who collects bones like memories.
Keer’s prose is evocative without excess, her characters flawed and magnetic. There’s a quiet poetry to the way she threads romance, folklore, and suspense—never overwrought, always compelling. I especially loved the atmospheric tension: the sense that something ancient and unknowable is watching from the edges.
Perfect for fans of Sarah Waters and Erin Morgenstern, this is a tale that lingers like sea mist—strange, sorrowful, and beautifully told.
Thank you to Jenni Keer, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Edward Blackmore, a reluctant spiritualist with a tangled past, arrives at Thistlewick House expecting theatrics—but finds death, suspicion, and a village steeped in silence. What unfolds is a story stitched with grief, guilt, and the uncanny, as Edward unravels not only the mystery of his cousin’s wife, but the haunting legacy of a vanished circus and a woman who collects bones like memories.
Keer’s prose is evocative without excess, her characters flawed and magnetic. There’s a quiet poetry to the way she threads romance, folklore, and suspense—never overwrought, always compelling. I especially loved the atmospheric tension: the sense that something ancient and unknowable is watching from the edges.
Perfect for fans of Sarah Waters and Erin Morgenstern, this is a tale that lingers like sea mist—strange, sorrowful, and beautifully told.
Thank you to Jenni Keer, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
October 12, 2025
Edward Blackmore makes his living helping people communicate with their dear departed, a renowned spiritualist he is surprised to receive a request from his cousin, Barnabas, who had been the beneficiary of his disinheritance. Travelling to Thistlewick Manor Edward arrives too late to deal with the alleged demon possession of his cousin’s wife, his first and only love. Although he claims no understanding of such things, he agrees to try and communicate with the dear departed. What Edward does not expect, is to be confronted by the very possibility that spirits exist and do take possession of the recently dead. Having this new knowledge Edward sets out to investigate and in the process learns for more than he is comfortable with. His own secrets are exposed and he comes to a completely different understanding of who he is, whilst solving the very strange mystery that hangs over the nearby village of Thistlewick Tye.
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewich House is an original mystery story with a varied cast of interesting, empathetic and horrible characters. The story is well crafted and the final solution is satisfying. Definitely worth a read. ⅘
Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read the eARC for this book
The Peculiar Incident at Thistlewich House is an original mystery story with a varied cast of interesting, empathetic and horrible characters. The story is well crafted and the final solution is satisfying. Definitely worth a read. ⅘
Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read the eARC for this book
January 20, 2026
The author is one I’ve read and liked previous books of, and this looked like an interesting and different type of narrative. I didn’t realise how different it was until I was part way into the book.
Thistlewick house has a strange incident that has the owner calling his cousin for help. A cousin who is believed to be a spiritualist, one who can communicate with the dead. We soon find out the lay of the land, surprisingly what one would expect to be true isn’t while the opposite is the case for what one would definitely consider to be a hoax.
The past timeline clears up a lot of the information except for a few key points like the motives. I did not get the exact point right but was close. Although the writing was great and I would definitely pick up another, the plot itself was not for me. There are several small reasons why I did not like it, but it might still work for some people.
The author writes very atmospheric books despite the setting. Here, the setting helped as well. I am not going into too much of the story just because of all the twists that are part of the narrative and without them there would be no tale!
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
Thistlewick house has a strange incident that has the owner calling his cousin for help. A cousin who is believed to be a spiritualist, one who can communicate with the dead. We soon find out the lay of the land, surprisingly what one would expect to be true isn’t while the opposite is the case for what one would definitely consider to be a hoax.
The past timeline clears up a lot of the information except for a few key points like the motives. I did not get the exact point right but was close. Although the writing was great and I would definitely pick up another, the plot itself was not for me. There are several small reasons why I did not like it, but it might still work for some people.
The author writes very atmospheric books despite the setting. Here, the setting helped as well. I am not going into too much of the story just because of all the twists that are part of the narrative and without them there would be no tale!
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
September 19, 2025
This was my third book by this author and I’ve enjoyed them all. I read an eARC of this book on NetGalley so thank you to the author and the publisher.
This is a historical novel with mystery elements. It takes place in the 1800s with the main storyline investigating events forty years in the past. It all takes place in a small town on the Norfolk coast. This was the perfect setting for this story and the cliffs themselves are totally integral to this story. Coastal erosion is causing human remains to fall from the cliffs and strange occurrences start happening in the village nearby. Our main character is called by his estranged cousin to come at haste to help with his wife who appears to be possessed following a serious illness. The main character is a medium. He’s reluctant to help due to longstanding hurts caused by his cousin but when he arrives he finds himself embroiled in a mystery.
This book started off and ended very well, I did feel it lost a bit of focus in the middle third. There were a few things I found a little jarring in that part, but I did understand why the author made those choices when I reached the conclusion of the novel, which was nice.
This author does historical mystery very well and I look forward to reading more of her work. She really knows how to merge her story perfectly with its setting and to use this to ramp up atmosphere.
This is a historical novel with mystery elements. It takes place in the 1800s with the main storyline investigating events forty years in the past. It all takes place in a small town on the Norfolk coast. This was the perfect setting for this story and the cliffs themselves are totally integral to this story. Coastal erosion is causing human remains to fall from the cliffs and strange occurrences start happening in the village nearby. Our main character is called by his estranged cousin to come at haste to help with his wife who appears to be possessed following a serious illness. The main character is a medium. He’s reluctant to help due to longstanding hurts caused by his cousin but when he arrives he finds himself embroiled in a mystery.
This book started off and ended very well, I did feel it lost a bit of focus in the middle third. There were a few things I found a little jarring in that part, but I did understand why the author made those choices when I reached the conclusion of the novel, which was nice.
This author does historical mystery very well and I look forward to reading more of her work. She really knows how to merge her story perfectly with its setting and to use this to ramp up atmosphere.
October 11, 2025
Set in the last 19th century England, this novel provides an eerie and isolated setting ripe with mystery and secrets aplenty. Every character is not who they seem, and suspicion is the order of the day.
The author, Jenni Keer, start the story out as a seemingly straightforward tale of murder, with a charlatan coming to the rescue. But as the story unfold, it becomes clear that there is more to the coastal town of Thistlewick Tye than meets the eye. There’s rigid religious practices, bias, stonewalling from the villagers, and more. The more that Edward digs into the past of the town, the more his life becomes threatened, and the secrets that has been buried will finally be revealed-delivering a small amount of justice to the wronged and persecuted.
I enjoyed this murder mystery and its many twists. The storyline line was intriguing, the characters made for a complex whodunit, and the idea of who is worthy of life and acceptance is turned on its head. The underdog gets a voice. 4.5 stars
Thank you NetGalley, and Love Book Tours, for my arc. My opinion is my own.
The author, Jenni Keer, start the story out as a seemingly straightforward tale of murder, with a charlatan coming to the rescue. But as the story unfold, it becomes clear that there is more to the coastal town of Thistlewick Tye than meets the eye. There’s rigid religious practices, bias, stonewalling from the villagers, and more. The more that Edward digs into the past of the town, the more his life becomes threatened, and the secrets that has been buried will finally be revealed-delivering a small amount of justice to the wronged and persecuted.
I enjoyed this murder mystery and its many twists. The storyline line was intriguing, the characters made for a complex whodunit, and the idea of who is worthy of life and acceptance is turned on its head. The underdog gets a voice. 4.5 stars
Thank you NetGalley, and Love Book Tours, for my arc. My opinion is my own.
November 18, 2025
The story is a mix of the supernatural, mixed with magic and a touch of romance to give it balance. Set in 1895 in a remote village in Norfolk, the strange happenings only start when the bones begin to fall from the cliffs bordering the sea, due to erosion.
Edward was cheated of his inheritance and his bride by his cousin. Edward deals in the spirit world and Barbara’s appeals to him to come and save his wife who fell ill and recovered but is talking of people with strange names and about a circus and how they were killed years ago. Edward is a sham, but when a second death occurs and bones keep falling, he realises there is a connection. With each fall of bones, a fresh death could occur. Discovering the truth of what happened decades ago is a slow one of the deliberate murder of many people in the circus and the cover up by some of the villagers, who thought they’d got away with murder.
This was a very Gothic story with a fair amount of historical fiction too. The murders and unraveling that was also fascinating, because you had to go forty years back.
Edward was cheated of his inheritance and his bride by his cousin. Edward deals in the spirit world and Barbara’s appeals to him to come and save his wife who fell ill and recovered but is talking of people with strange names and about a circus and how they were killed years ago. Edward is a sham, but when a second death occurs and bones keep falling, he realises there is a connection. With each fall of bones, a fresh death could occur. Discovering the truth of what happened decades ago is a slow one of the deliberate murder of many people in the circus and the cover up by some of the villagers, who thought they’d got away with murder.
This was a very Gothic story with a fair amount of historical fiction too. The murders and unraveling that was also fascinating, because you had to go forty years back.
September 30, 2025
I’ve read a couple of Jenni Keers books and really enjoyed them. This one did not live up to expectations. It started well and the characterisation is good, however when it got to the supernatural part which became the driving force behind the plot the book lost its way. I realise that previous books played around with the nature of reality in a speculative way, but the transmigration of a soul bringing to life a deceased person with an entirely new identity was not convincing to me. The book also made a point of attacking the hypocrisy of overzealous Christians, including ministers. While this is undoubtedly something that happens perhaps more so in Victorian times, in my experience the vast majority of Christian leaders are well meaning, tolerant and sensitive. The best point to take from the book is the profile it gave to so called outcasts, seeing them as people first and foremost yet widely discriminated against. It was great to such characters written about in a positive way.
October 5, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyable gothic dual-time story from Jenni Keer.
Spiritualist Edward Blackmore isn't what he seems - he's had a rough childhood, and then his father disinherited him in favour of his cousin Barnabas, who ruined the business and married Emma, the woman Edward loved. But when Emma dies, seemingly possessed by the spirit of a dead person, Barnabas begs Edward to contact her and find the truth.
Forty years early, Samson's circus comes to Thistlewick Tye, allegedly to rest - but then it seems that the entire troupe vanishes.
When Edward starts to investigate, several attempts are made on his life. With the help of another character who isn't what she seems, he uncovers the truth of what happened all those years ago - and what's happening in the village right now...
Lovely twisty-turny plot, a good romance, and deft characterisation by Jenni all adds up to a great read.
Spiritualist Edward Blackmore isn't what he seems - he's had a rough childhood, and then his father disinherited him in favour of his cousin Barnabas, who ruined the business and married Emma, the woman Edward loved. But when Emma dies, seemingly possessed by the spirit of a dead person, Barnabas begs Edward to contact her and find the truth.
Forty years early, Samson's circus comes to Thistlewick Tye, allegedly to rest - but then it seems that the entire troupe vanishes.
When Edward starts to investigate, several attempts are made on his life. With the help of another character who isn't what she seems, he uncovers the truth of what happened all those years ago - and what's happening in the village right now...
Lovely twisty-turny plot, a good romance, and deft characterisation by Jenni all adds up to a great read.
October 22, 2025
This was such a stunning supernatural story!
From the first few pages I was completely immersed into the riveting storyline and highly entertained throughout with the many unexpected twists and reveals as the story developed.
Edward is a complex and fascinating character, his claims to be able to connect with the spirit world captures your imagination so it was fascinating to witness his journey and discoveries in the isolated village in Norfolk, where very strange things were occurring.
I enjoyed The Greatest Showman type vibes that came across with the circus community and characters. So wonderfully described, you could really feel the tension created by their arrival in the village.
Vibrant characters with hidden pasts made this a what’s going to happen next story.
Absolutely amazing, I really couldn’t put this story out of my mind and was desperate to find out how it would all be resolved.
From the first few pages I was completely immersed into the riveting storyline and highly entertained throughout with the many unexpected twists and reveals as the story developed.
Edward is a complex and fascinating character, his claims to be able to connect with the spirit world captures your imagination so it was fascinating to witness his journey and discoveries in the isolated village in Norfolk, where very strange things were occurring.
I enjoyed The Greatest Showman type vibes that came across with the circus community and characters. So wonderfully described, you could really feel the tension created by their arrival in the village.
Vibrant characters with hidden pasts made this a what’s going to happen next story.
Absolutely amazing, I really couldn’t put this story out of my mind and was desperate to find out how it would all be resolved.
November 13, 2025
The late Victorian era is renowned for its fascination with the macabre and its interest in communicating with the dead. It is against this evocative setting that this dark and intriguing story begins. Edward, a spiritualist to the rich, is begged by his cousin to visit his sick wife, whom Edward once loved. Edward has not forgiven Barnabas for his betrayal, but sees a way to avenge the wrong his cousin committed many years before. What he finds leads him on a dangerous quest, revealing dark secrets and unexpected events. The story is full of interesting details and evokes this aspect of the Victorian era in a way that draws the reader in. It is poignant and dark, but clever, and moments of light keep the reader hopeful. I like the atmospheric, gothic setting, the suspense that hints at the menace below the perfect village life and the characterisation, which is rich and believable.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
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