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Sybil Ingram #1
Nocturne for a Widow
Vivacious actress Sybil Ingram looks forward to a life of security when she leaves the theater to marry a wealthy American. But when he dies on their wedding night, she finds herself a penniless widow. Her only legacy is Brooke House, a Gothic revival manor in the wilds of the Hudson River Valley. However, the eerie mansion comes with two tenants. One is a hostile ghost. The second, and far worse, is former violinist Roderick Brooke--the most insolent, dangerous, maddeningly gorgeous man she's ever met.
As Sybil and Roderick engage in a battle of wills--and wits--she finds herself increasingly drawn to him despite her growing suspicion that there is a connection between him and the spirit that haunts Brooke House. But soon an even greater threat arises: the mysterious queen of local society, Mrs. Lavinia Dove. For reasons that Sybil can't imagine, Mrs. Dove is determined to have Brooke House and Roderick for herself... if necessary, by deadly means.
As Sybil and Roderick engage in a battle of wills--and wits--she finds herself increasingly drawn to him despite her growing suspicion that there is a connection between him and the spirit that haunts Brooke House. But soon an even greater threat arises: the mysterious queen of local society, Mrs. Lavinia Dove. For reasons that Sybil can't imagine, Mrs. Dove is determined to have Brooke House and Roderick for herself... if necessary, by deadly means.
Unknown Binding
First published January 1, 2014
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About the author
Amanda DeWees
39 books141 followersAmanda DeWees received her PhD in English from the University of Georgia and wrote her dissertation on 19th-century vampire literature—the perfect training, although she didn’t know it at the time, for writing Victorian gothic romance novels. Her books include With This Curse, winner of the 2015 Daphne du Maurier Award in historical mystery/suspense, and the Sybil Ingram Victorian Mysteries series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
July 31, 2018
I was willing to bite my tongue and ignore the fact that the mystery in this book makes the Hardy Boys look like Hercule Poirot. I was willing to ignore the fact that a ghost practically shoving the answer down the heroine's throat ignores every rule of good mystery writing. I was even willing to ignore how predictable and uninteresting most of these characters were.
Until the romance decided to kick it up a notch.
Up until that point, the heroine and hero enjoyed the slight romantic tension that keeps a story going. Then someone flips a switch and they are in luuuuvvvvvvv and obsessed with one another and going 90 miles an hour. It is so out of nowhere that I expected there to be some supernatural reason for it. But no. They just decided to take the enemies to lovers trope and skip the "to".
Quite a disappointment, I must say. A little subtlety would have done this book a world of good.
Until the romance decided to kick it up a notch.
Up until that point, the heroine and hero enjoyed the slight romantic tension that keeps a story going. Then someone flips a switch and they are in luuuuvvvvvvv and obsessed with one another and going 90 miles an hour. It is so out of nowhere that I expected there to be some supernatural reason for it. But no. They just decided to take the enemies to lovers trope and skip the "to".
Quite a disappointment, I must say. A little subtlety would have done this book a world of good.
May 31, 2016
3.5 звезды
На три четверти идеальная книга.
Замечательное сочетание готического романа и романтической комедии со здоровой долей иронии, пафоса и напыщенности, что присущи классическим пьесам xD
Все очень утрировано, гротескно, по-театральному. Обалденно.
Сибил Ингрем - стареющая английская актриса. Где это видано, скоро 30, а она все еще на сцене. Пора уходить, как говорится, на пике славы. Сибил отыгрывает последнюю роль и уезжает в Америку, где проживает некий богатый джентльмен, предлагающий себя в мужья. Вот только по прибытии ее ждет уже разорившийся и буквально помирающий женишок. Сибил выходит замуж и через несколько часов становится вдовой. От почившего не остается ничего, кроме кучи долгов и разоренного имения, где, по слухам, водятся призраки. В Англию героиня вернуться не может, ибо там управляющий театральной труппы свалил на нее собственные растраты. Выхода нет, Сибил направляется в дом с привидениями.
Также ей сообщают, что у покойного есть сын и что "сейчас он в школе, но скоро вернется". Что-то подсчитав в уме и убедившись у поверенного, что "мальчику больше семи", полная энергии вдовушка уже предвкушает, как в ее жизни появится пасынок, как они будут играть в пятнашки и ловить лягушек...
Ну чего, не соврал поверенный. Мальчику больше семи. Года так на двадцать три. И в школе он отнюдь не учится, а преподает. А еще он гениальный скрипач, некогда известный на весь мир своим скандальным поведением, но после травмы залегший на дно. В общем, Родерик Брук ныне не самая приятная личность для общения. И уж тем более он не рад видеть в своем доме какую-то актрисульку-охотницу за наследством.
И да, призраки в поместье все-таки водятся. Как и не слишком хорошие личности, которым Сибил своим поведением очень не угодила.
Интриги, скандалы, расследования.
Все и правда было круто. На три четверти. Шикарная театральная постановка с задорными диалогами, пикировками и неустанными подначками. Мольер, Шекспир и все-все-все. Цитаты, остроты, женские и просто актерские приемы.
Сейчас и кино и театр все больше уходят в реализм, но сцена требует преувеличения, и здесь оно есть - почти водевиль в готическом антураже.
Сибил прекрасна. Да, за время закулисных войн она наточила коготки, но все же в какой-то мере остается наивной и светлой, ведь толком не видела жизни за пределами сцены. И по сравнению с некоторыми гарпиями из светского общества она божий одуванчик. Рори упертый, конечно, но яркий и ироничный. И умеющий признавать свои ошибки.
Сюжет не слишком закручен, но скучать не приходится.
Да, идеально, на три четверти.
А вот последняя часть едва не заставила меня взвыть от тоски. Переиграли. Автор, что ж вы так... Гротеск гротеском, но начиная с признания (которое лично для меня как обухом по голове), заканчивая письмом от управляющего и волшебным решением последней из проблем... Ну, все оно к месту и вполне в духе, но не так же топорно! Так и хотелось закричать "Не верю!"
Надо было все те же события смягчить и чуть растянуть во времени, а так...
Да, театральность сохранилась, но это уже совсем другой спектакль.
Впрочем, возможно, это мои личные заморочки.
А роман все равно понравился - даже ангина чуток отступила, позволив от души посмеяться.
На три четверти идеальная книга.
Замечательное сочетание готического романа и романтической комедии со здоровой долей иронии, пафоса и напыщенности, что присущи классическим пьесам xD
Все очень утрировано, гротескно, по-театральному. Обалденно.
Сибил Ингрем - стареющая английская актриса. Где это видано, скоро 30, а она все еще на сцене. Пора уходить, как говорится, на пике славы. Сибил отыгрывает последнюю роль и уезжает в Америку, где проживает некий богатый джентльмен, предлагающий себя в мужья. Вот только по прибытии ее ждет уже разорившийся и буквально помирающий женишок. Сибил выходит замуж и через несколько часов становится вдовой. От почившего не остается ничего, кроме кучи долгов и разоренного имения, где, по слухам, водятся призраки. В Англию героиня вернуться не может, ибо там управляющий театральной труппы свалил на нее собственные растраты. Выхода нет, Сибил направляется в дом с привидениями.
Также ей сообщают, что у покойного есть сын и что "сейчас он в школе, но скоро вернется". Что-то подсчитав в уме и убедившись у поверенного, что "мальчику больше семи", полная энергии вдовушка уже предвкушает, как в ее жизни появится пасынок, как они будут играть в пятнашки и ловить лягушек...
Ну чего, не соврал поверенный. Мальчику больше семи. Года так на двадцать три. И в школе он отнюдь не учится, а преподает. А еще он гениальный скрипач, некогда известный на весь мир своим скандальным поведением, но после травмы залегший на дно. В общем, Родерик Брук ныне не самая приятная личность для общения. И уж тем более он не рад видеть в своем доме какую-то актрисульку-охотницу за наследством.
И да, призраки в поместье все-таки водятся. Как и не слишком хорошие личности, которым Сибил своим поведением очень не угодила.
Интриги, скандалы, расследования.
Все и правда было круто. На три четверти. Шикарная театральная постановка с задорными диалогами, пикировками и неустанными подначками. Мольер, Шекспир и все-все-все. Цитаты, остроты, женские и просто актерские приемы.
Сейчас и кино и театр все больше уходят в реализм, но сцена требует преувеличения, и здесь оно есть - почти водевиль в готическом антураже.
Сибил прекрасна. Да, за время закулисных войн она наточила коготки, но все же в какой-то мере остается наивной и светлой, ведь толком не видела жизни за пределами сцены. И по сравнению с некоторыми гарпиями из светского общества она божий одуванчик. Рори упертый, конечно, но яркий и ироничный. И умеющий признавать свои ошибки.
Сюжет не слишком закручен, но скучать не приходится.
Да, идеально, на три четверти.
А вот последняя часть едва не заставила меня взвыть от тоски. Переиграли. Автор, что ж вы так... Гротеск гротеском, но начиная с признания (которое лично для меня как обухом по голове), заканчивая письмом от управляющего и волшебным решением последней из проблем... Ну, все оно к месту и вполне в духе, но не так же топорно! Так и хотелось закричать "Не верю!"
Надо было все те же события смягчить и чуть растянуть во времени, а так...
Да, театральность сохранилась, но это уже совсем другой спектакль.
Впрочем, возможно, это мои личные заморочки.
А роман все равно понравился - даже ангина чуток отступила, позволив от души посмеяться.
February 27, 2021
I found this author by stumbling across a Christmas novella and a short story in an anthology.
I fell in love with her tone and style, and the main character Sybil right away! So I ran off and bought the first book in the actual series.
And I can now say I did not regret it!
Nocturne for a Widow had me hooked right from the start. I'm always a sucker for a strong willed and slightly sarcastic female main character who goes her own way. And Sybil does just that! She knows her strengths, and she likes to play to them, but she also knows her limitations and makes the most of whatever life throws at her. Instead of fainting or becoming hysterical she'll look for a way forward and just won't give up! I also love how she's definitely looking out for herself, but at the same time is really loyal and loveable, as well as open to all sorts of people and experiences.
The love story in this one reminded me a bit of Jane Austen, but in a good way, not in a copy cat way. Both characters are strong willed and direct, and they do clash heads at first as it seems fate has set them against each other. But deep down they are quite similar, and I loved their banter and squabbling!
The plot is as much mystery and ghost story as it is regency romance, and I enjoyed each of the aspects! The prose was fluent and quick and so very easy to devour.
The one star missing is for some moments where I would have preferred just a tad more depth, and for the switch in the characters relationship being a bit to quick for my taste, but it was a fantastically fun read, and I will absolutely buy the rest of the series as well!
I fell in love with her tone and style, and the main character Sybil right away! So I ran off and bought the first book in the actual series.
And I can now say I did not regret it!
Nocturne for a Widow had me hooked right from the start. I'm always a sucker for a strong willed and slightly sarcastic female main character who goes her own way. And Sybil does just that! She knows her strengths, and she likes to play to them, but she also knows her limitations and makes the most of whatever life throws at her. Instead of fainting or becoming hysterical she'll look for a way forward and just won't give up! I also love how she's definitely looking out for herself, but at the same time is really loyal and loveable, as well as open to all sorts of people and experiences.
The love story in this one reminded me a bit of Jane Austen, but in a good way, not in a copy cat way. Both characters are strong willed and direct, and they do clash heads at first as it seems fate has set them against each other. But deep down they are quite similar, and I loved their banter and squabbling!
The plot is as much mystery and ghost story as it is regency romance, and I enjoyed each of the aspects! The prose was fluent and quick and so very easy to devour.
The one star missing is for some moments where I would have preferred just a tad more depth, and for the switch in the characters relationship being a bit to quick for my taste, but it was a fantastically fun read, and I will absolutely buy the rest of the series as well!
March 29, 2016
If you like old-fashioned gothic romance in the style of Mary Stewart or Victoria Holt them Amanda DeWees is the author for you. Nocturne for a Widow is a sort of spin-off from With This Curse, in which we briefly met Sybil Ingram. Sybil is the toast of the London stage but is rapidly aging out of the sort of ingenue roles she is famous for; at the age of 29, no less. The troupe she has been with throughout her career is not doing well and when she meets with the manager she gets very bad news indeed. The manager, who has been her mentor, has been cooking the books. He has an investor but is afraid of discovery. Sybil agrees to take the blame for the embezzlement and accept the proposal of a rich American, Atticus Lammle. Upon her arrival in America though she finds Lammle on his deathbed and his hotel empire in shambles. Sybil does marry him but he dies almost immediately. The only piece of property that she might be able to hang on to is an upstate NY estate with a murky past and a stepson she knows nothing about. Assuming that the stepson could only be a small boy, Sybil hopes that she can become a real stepmother and mentor to him. What follows is a humorous mixture of ghost story, romance and mystery: Roderick Brooke turns out to be a full grown man who thinks she is a gold digger. The two trade barbs, get to know each other and have an undeniable attraction. But there is a villainess, Mrs. Dove, who seems to hold the entire village in thrall and is willing to stop at nothing to get her hands on both Roderick and the estate.
This audiobook was provided by the narrator, Elizabeth Klett, at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review. She does a great job voicing the characters, both male and female, as she has for earlier Amanda DeWees titles. I highly recommend Nocturne for a Widow to Gothic fans looking for a light and quite humorous listening experience.
This audiobook was provided by the narrator, Elizabeth Klett, at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review. She does a great job voicing the characters, both male and female, as she has for earlier Amanda DeWees titles. I highly recommend Nocturne for a Widow to Gothic fans looking for a light and quite humorous listening experience.
March 29, 2017
I absolutely loved it and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good love story with a bit of paranormal and a murder mystery.
Nothing more to say!
Nothing more to say!
August 3, 2019
Ghost story and romance
3.5 stars. This gothic romance has both ghosts and ne’er do wells. Our heroine is an actress who sees the writing on the wall and decides it’s time to bow out gracefully, but her mentor gets her to take the blame for his gambling away the theatre proceeds when she heads of to the US to get married. Upon arriving she discovers her fortunes have changed for the ill. Her new husband dies on her before she can get started so she ends up in a gothic country house north of NYC. The step son she thought she could befriend turns out not to be 7 years old but 30 and he’s a scamp! Add a ghost, a scheming neighbor to a battle for home ownership and a place in the world and you’ve got an entertaining tale.
3.5 stars. This gothic romance has both ghosts and ne’er do wells. Our heroine is an actress who sees the writing on the wall and decides it’s time to bow out gracefully, but her mentor gets her to take the blame for his gambling away the theatre proceeds when she heads of to the US to get married. Upon arriving she discovers her fortunes have changed for the ill. Her new husband dies on her before she can get started so she ends up in a gothic country house north of NYC. The step son she thought she could befriend turns out not to be 7 years old but 30 and he’s a scamp! Add a ghost, a scheming neighbor to a battle for home ownership and a place in the world and you’ve got an entertaining tale.
October 4, 2016
All the World's a Stage (Audiobook)
Amanda DeWees has penned a well written story with entertaining characters. At its heart Nocturne for a Widow is a romance with a dash of mystery, deceit, and humor. It can be read as a standalone or as part of the With This Curse series.
As much as I enjoyed the book I was so disgusted with the deceit, disdain and heartlessness coming from some of the characters at the beginning of the book that I almost did not continue BUT that would have been a huge mistake. After Sybil’s arrival at Brooke House the story changes into something very entertaining and enjoyable. The interactions between Sybil and Roderick are priceless, even thought I did want to throw something sharp at Roderick from time to time. I definitely hope there is more about the spunky Sybil in the series.
Narrator Elizabeth Klett does this book proud. She provides the listener with lovely accents as well as a wide variety of voices and inflections. I will definitely be on the lookout for additional books narrated by her.
Amanda DeWees has penned a well written story with entertaining characters. At its heart Nocturne for a Widow is a romance with a dash of mystery, deceit, and humor. It can be read as a standalone or as part of the With This Curse series.
As much as I enjoyed the book I was so disgusted with the deceit, disdain and heartlessness coming from some of the characters at the beginning of the book that I almost did not continue BUT that would have been a huge mistake. After Sybil’s arrival at Brooke House the story changes into something very entertaining and enjoyable. The interactions between Sybil and Roderick are priceless, even thought I did want to throw something sharp at Roderick from time to time. I definitely hope there is more about the spunky Sybil in the series.
Narrator Elizabeth Klett does this book proud. She provides the listener with lovely accents as well as a wide variety of voices and inflections. I will definitely be on the lookout for additional books narrated by her.
March 12, 2016
Here I am again getting sucked into a book because of the cover. Thankfully the story was able to deliver. Big time.
How is this not a more popular book?! It needs to be. It's a beautiful story! I loved how the main character stayed strong with her beliefs and didn't let anyone bring her spirits down. She was very clever and quick witted.
It had that eerie suspenseful feel and it was well done indeed. The paranormal bits really set the mood for a great story.
I never read a romance before and this book definitely got me into the Gothic Romance genre. The writing was lovely and elegant and I need more!
How is this not a more popular book?! It needs to be. It's a beautiful story! I loved how the main character stayed strong with her beliefs and didn't let anyone bring her spirits down. She was very clever and quick witted.
It had that eerie suspenseful feel and it was well done indeed. The paranormal bits really set the mood for a great story.
I never read a romance before and this book definitely got me into the Gothic Romance genre. The writing was lovely and elegant and I need more!
July 25, 2017
The entertaining Nocturne for a Widow, which has been well-described as a humorous gothic, plus Elizabeth Klett's excellent narration made my afternoon of grading fly by! It's fitting that I'm reading Amanda DeWees's books while also reading Jane Eyre---a non-humorous, weighty gothic---with some of my students. I enjoyed Sybil & Roderick & their banter, and aspects of this novel reminded me of what I liked best in Georgette Heyer books. What a good find for me! (No strong language. No gratuitous scenes. Paranormal elements.)
September 7, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up for this reread
A delightfully written gothic romance, I loved how snappy the dialogue between characters was and how much sparks flew between the main couple.
The mystery is pretty standard for gothic romances but what really shone for me was the characters and how clear their misbeliefs were and how those misbeliefs guided them in making choices that were often petty and foolish but they still have such deep like ability that you root for them to do better 💕
A delightfully written gothic romance, I loved how snappy the dialogue between characters was and how much sparks flew between the main couple.
The mystery is pretty standard for gothic romances but what really shone for me was the characters and how clear their misbeliefs were and how those misbeliefs guided them in making choices that were often petty and foolish but they still have such deep like ability that you root for them to do better 💕
June 3, 2020
3.5
Although the mystery wasn't hugely mysterious (which, in all fairness, may be due to that weird Victorian poisons research I did last summer), the book is delightfully readable and just generally a good time. If you like your mysteries on the cozier side with a light supernatural element, this is worth a read.
Although the mystery wasn't hugely mysterious (which, in all fairness, may be due to that weird Victorian poisons research I did last summer), the book is delightfully readable and just generally a good time. If you like your mysteries on the cozier side with a light supernatural element, this is worth a read.
May 30, 2021
2.5 stars
I both liked and didn't like this book. It had many things I usually like, and some traits I don't like at all. So it was a mixed bag.
The heroine is both annoying and really strong. Sometimes I like her, sometimes I just want to wack her with something hard.
The love interest is an insta-attraction that develops from "hate" to "love" within the blink of an eye. I'm really not a fan of the sudden "Oh, gosh, I love this man!" realisation that hits like a lightning bolt. Even if there had been plenty of (aggressive) flirting going on, the sudden "Oh, dear, you are the love of my life!" switch almost gave me whiplash - even if I had seen it coming miles away.
The mystery was a bit simple. Basically, the most unlikeable character within the entire book did it. Done. Mystery solved. Not even a hint of deep thinking needed.
In a way that was quite relaxing, but also rather boring.
I think I might return to this series, but at the moment I'm not sure about it.
The author managed to spin a story that felt a lot longer than the amount of pages or hours of audiobook available, so she sure got a lot of things happening into it.
But as a whole it wasn't the best kind of story I've spent time with - or the best, most likeable characters either.
So... We'll see.
I both liked and didn't like this book. It had many things I usually like, and some traits I don't like at all. So it was a mixed bag.
The heroine is both annoying and really strong. Sometimes I like her, sometimes I just want to wack her with something hard.
The love interest is an insta-attraction that develops from "hate" to "love" within the blink of an eye. I'm really not a fan of the sudden "Oh, gosh, I love this man!" realisation that hits like a lightning bolt. Even if there had been plenty of (aggressive) flirting going on, the sudden "Oh, dear, you are the love of my life!" switch almost gave me whiplash - even if I had seen it coming miles away.
The mystery was a bit simple. Basically, the most unlikeable character within the entire book did it. Done. Mystery solved. Not even a hint of deep thinking needed.
In a way that was quite relaxing, but also rather boring.
I think I might return to this series, but at the moment I'm not sure about it.
The author managed to spin a story that felt a lot longer than the amount of pages or hours of audiobook available, so she sure got a lot of things happening into it.
But as a whole it wasn't the best kind of story I've spent time with - or the best, most likeable characters either.
So... We'll see.
July 7, 2017
In January 1873 London, Sybil Ingram leaves her theatre group and travels to the States to marry. But nothing goes to plan and she finds herself at Brooke House, in the Hudson Bay aiming to be a guardian to young Roderick Brooke.
This romance with a bit of a gothic mystery is a fun and enjoyable read.
This romance with a bit of a gothic mystery is a fun and enjoyable read.
April 4, 2019
I'm giving Nocturne for a Widow four stars simply because I enjoyed it. I liked the way it was written in the first person emphasising the feelings of Sybil and all she endured after 'retiring' from the theatre. There were some interesting characters and the plot kept me turning the pages.
April 25, 2019
A guilty pleasure of a read.
December 4, 2019
Couldn't get through it due to the predictable romance.
July 10, 2020
3.5 stars. A quick read influenced by the gothic romance genre (think Rebecca or Jane Eyre but much less sophisticated). I liked this one, but solved the mystery pretty much from day one. It was super predictable. I liked the characters and the setting but wished there was a little more mystery.
July 6, 2018
Intrigue and mystery, with a touch of the supernatural, plus a battle of wills and some romantic interest. Totally engrossing.
December 22, 2014
Try this one on for size: What if Daphne du Maurier wrote a romantic comedy?
That's essentially the angle that Amanda DeWees takes in her newest gothic, "Nocturne for a Widow." Actress Sybil Ingram (who you may remember as a minor character in the previous novel from Amanda DeWees, "With This Curse") journeys to New York City to marry a wealthy tycoon, but arrives to find her fiancée ruined - financially and healthwise. When he dies shortly after their marriage, Sybil sets about establishing herself at Brooke House, a manor house near a small Hudson River Valley village, but quickly finds herself at odds with her 'stepson,' Roderick, a temperamental musician with a dark past. As the two stake competing claims over Brooke House, war is declared, and naturally it isn't long before the heat of battle turns into the heat of attraction! On another front, Sybil must contend with the village's society darling, Lavinia Dove, who seems strangely intent on driving Sybil away. And then there's the problem of the ghost to contend with...
As usual, Amanda DeWees delivers a vivid, memorable cast of delightful characters in a story that's a delight to read. All the traditional elements of gothic romance are here - the big old house, the ghost (maybe), the brooding hero, and so forth - but this time DeWees puts a delightful spin on the action by setting the two lead characters against one another in an all out war of wills... and wits. Those who have read any of her previous books will be well familiar with her masterful skill at spinning stories, but the way that DeWees mixes two seemingly incompatible flavors - the playful snippiness of the romcom and the peril and mystery inherent to the gothic genre - makes this possibly her best novel yet.
If you enjoyed the previous novels by Amanda DeWees, then you know to expect fantastic writing about engaging characters who are navigating intriguing situations - that's what she does, and she does it better than anybody currently producing work in the gothic genre. If you're a fan of traditional gothics in general, but you've never read anything by this author in particular, you'll definitely want to pick this one up - it's a great jumping-on point, a fantastic introduction to the work of an author who knows the rules of the traditional gothic so well that she can pay respect to them without allowing herself to be constrained by them. The result here, as with her previous gothic novels "Sea of Secrets"and "With This Curse," is a sweet, stimulating romantic thriller that feels familiar and fresh at the same time - just the sort of thing to curl up with by a cozy fire with a cup of hot tea.
That's essentially the angle that Amanda DeWees takes in her newest gothic, "Nocturne for a Widow." Actress Sybil Ingram (who you may remember as a minor character in the previous novel from Amanda DeWees, "With This Curse") journeys to New York City to marry a wealthy tycoon, but arrives to find her fiancée ruined - financially and healthwise. When he dies shortly after their marriage, Sybil sets about establishing herself at Brooke House, a manor house near a small Hudson River Valley village, but quickly finds herself at odds with her 'stepson,' Roderick, a temperamental musician with a dark past. As the two stake competing claims over Brooke House, war is declared, and naturally it isn't long before the heat of battle turns into the heat of attraction! On another front, Sybil must contend with the village's society darling, Lavinia Dove, who seems strangely intent on driving Sybil away. And then there's the problem of the ghost to contend with...
As usual, Amanda DeWees delivers a vivid, memorable cast of delightful characters in a story that's a delight to read. All the traditional elements of gothic romance are here - the big old house, the ghost (maybe), the brooding hero, and so forth - but this time DeWees puts a delightful spin on the action by setting the two lead characters against one another in an all out war of wills... and wits. Those who have read any of her previous books will be well familiar with her masterful skill at spinning stories, but the way that DeWees mixes two seemingly incompatible flavors - the playful snippiness of the romcom and the peril and mystery inherent to the gothic genre - makes this possibly her best novel yet.
If you enjoyed the previous novels by Amanda DeWees, then you know to expect fantastic writing about engaging characters who are navigating intriguing situations - that's what she does, and she does it better than anybody currently producing work in the gothic genre. If you're a fan of traditional gothics in general, but you've never read anything by this author in particular, you'll definitely want to pick this one up - it's a great jumping-on point, a fantastic introduction to the work of an author who knows the rules of the traditional gothic so well that she can pay respect to them without allowing herself to be constrained by them. The result here, as with her previous gothic novels "Sea of Secrets"and "With This Curse," is a sweet, stimulating romantic thriller that feels familiar and fresh at the same time - just the sort of thing to curl up with by a cozy fire with a cup of hot tea.
February 28, 2017
I love Amanda DeWees' stories! I didn't like this one as much as the others I've read - With This Curse, Cursed Once More: The Sequel to With This Curse, and Upon a Ghostly Yule: A Victorian Christmas Short Story - but it was a lovely little historical romance. I really don't understand why Ms. DeWees' books aren't more popular! They're little guilty pleasures - perfect for when you need an easy read. 3.5 stars
June 6, 2015
This is the second novel I have read by this author. It will not be my last. Her leading lady Sybil is a talented actress in the theater, and has been a top draw for over ten years . She is,also what keeps the troupe together, and pays the bills. Worrying over finances, she speaks with her mentor and friend about cutting costs, and soon finds she has resigned to allow a younger star to replace her, as well as allowed her to take suspicion ,upon her own character, because the books are short. Her mentor, and friend pleads that she will be in America, so what harm could this do her in reputation,and his would be ruined due to his gambling debt, and losses. It is a sad farewell for Sybil, when her theater family do not appear to say goodbye. Neither is there a warm welcome waiting for her in New York. The man she is supposed to marry has suffered a financial loss of his own, and a heart attack. Despite all ,she stays at his side. Then the story takes one spin after another, and Sybil can barely find her feet. Forced from one resident ,to another, with not the kindest people for support ,she settles in a house in the country, that belonged to his first wife and son. The wife has passes on, and the son is grown, angry, brooding, and mistrusting. All those she meets though are not in sheep's clothing, some come barring nails, and others harbor murder, in their hearts. I loved the characters,and the story line. Sybil faces much, but is determined to try and bring love, and peace to her new home for,as long as she still has it. This book is hard to put down, and found myself reading late into the night, then fretting because it was ending. The lavish countryside, even in winter, the slow building romance, the growth of the main characters, were all on spot. The dialogue between the characters had you laughing, and frustrated , and then happy, and smiling. The ending was very good. It is hard to understand fanatics, but with no spoilers , allowed, all I can say is to try it. You will be glad you did,and enjoy this talented,author. I will be reading more of her romantic mysteries.
March 28, 2016
This is a review for the audio book.
Nocturne for a Widow is a gothic romance by Amanda DeWees following the footsteps of her Curse series. In this book, Sybil Ingram leaves the Victorian stages in London to marry an American admirer and begin a new life in New Your City. Of course, all her plans go sour and she finds herself in a haunted house disputing its ownership with her stepson, besides dealing with colorful neighbors and a possible ghost. The main female character had actually appeared briefly in “With this Curse” as Clara’s actress employer, and it was a nice nod to her previous books. The atmosphere of this book, however, is a bit lighter and funnier – but without stepping out of the gothic genre, what is quite an accomplishment. The main characters, Sybil and Roderick, are mainly responsible for that because they are strong and colorful and their relationship has a comedic flavor that blends with the mystery inherent in the story with dexterity.
I believe DeWees is really good at creating interesting characters and has a superior writing, and her stories are quite stimulating, but without giving up the details of the plot, I found the ending lacking somehow, as the conflicts and mysteries are easily resolved. Maybe it’s because this book is the beginning of a series, some of the conflicts are going to be dragged to the next one. It’s an amusing tale nevertheless, and I look forward to the next book.
I was given a copy of the audio book to review and I would recommend it to everyone who enjoys romance and the gothic genre. The narration is outstanding with an excellent range of voice and tone, greatly improving the listener experience. Elizabeth Klett has a way of bringing the characters to life, and being a first person narrative, she excelled as Sybil Ingram.
Nocturne for a Widow is a gothic romance by Amanda DeWees following the footsteps of her Curse series. In this book, Sybil Ingram leaves the Victorian stages in London to marry an American admirer and begin a new life in New Your City. Of course, all her plans go sour and she finds herself in a haunted house disputing its ownership with her stepson, besides dealing with colorful neighbors and a possible ghost. The main female character had actually appeared briefly in “With this Curse” as Clara’s actress employer, and it was a nice nod to her previous books. The atmosphere of this book, however, is a bit lighter and funnier – but without stepping out of the gothic genre, what is quite an accomplishment. The main characters, Sybil and Roderick, are mainly responsible for that because they are strong and colorful and their relationship has a comedic flavor that blends with the mystery inherent in the story with dexterity.
I believe DeWees is really good at creating interesting characters and has a superior writing, and her stories are quite stimulating, but without giving up the details of the plot, I found the ending lacking somehow, as the conflicts and mysteries are easily resolved. Maybe it’s because this book is the beginning of a series, some of the conflicts are going to be dragged to the next one. It’s an amusing tale nevertheless, and I look forward to the next book.
I was given a copy of the audio book to review and I would recommend it to everyone who enjoys romance and the gothic genre. The narration is outstanding with an excellent range of voice and tone, greatly improving the listener experience. Elizabeth Klett has a way of bringing the characters to life, and being a first person narrative, she excelled as Sybil Ingram.
February 6, 2015
Nocturne for a Widow
by Amanda DeWees
rating 5 stars*****
I have to say I went in to this novel a little nervous. I am a huge fan of the Ash Grove series by the same author, and well this is nothing like those books. In fact to me it was better. I was immediately taken with Sybil. She is a beautiful leading lady with an egually beautiful soul. She sacrifices so much for everyone around her, even if it means her own happiness. Her strength is both refreshing and inspiring. Her journey is one that will make you laugh and bring you to tears at the same time.
Now, add in one dark, brooding, sexy man and we told, and what a picture the author has painted here.e have an amazing story. I dont want to give any more of the plot away, but this book will not allow you to put it down. My only complaint here is that the story ended... and i still wanted to know more.
For many of us readers who love a good historical, this one is up there with the greats like Joanna Lindsay and Victoria Holt. The scenes are written with vivid imagery that makes it easy to picture in the readers minds. I swear that I will have nightmares for a while over that doll....seriously creepy. The plot holds the readers attention and keeps you wanting more. I truly loved son=me of the characters, and loved to hate others. All in all this is a novel that will not disappoint any of the readers.
this book was provided by the author in exchange for honest literary review.
by Amanda DeWees
rating 5 stars*****
I have to say I went in to this novel a little nervous. I am a huge fan of the Ash Grove series by the same author, and well this is nothing like those books. In fact to me it was better. I was immediately taken with Sybil. She is a beautiful leading lady with an egually beautiful soul. She sacrifices so much for everyone around her, even if it means her own happiness. Her strength is both refreshing and inspiring. Her journey is one that will make you laugh and bring you to tears at the same time.
Now, add in one dark, brooding, sexy man and we told, and what a picture the author has painted here.e have an amazing story. I dont want to give any more of the plot away, but this book will not allow you to put it down. My only complaint here is that the story ended... and i still wanted to know more.
For many of us readers who love a good historical, this one is up there with the greats like Joanna Lindsay and Victoria Holt. The scenes are written with vivid imagery that makes it easy to picture in the readers minds. I swear that I will have nightmares for a while over that doll....seriously creepy. The plot holds the readers attention and keeps you wanting more. I truly loved son=me of the characters, and loved to hate others. All in all this is a novel that will not disappoint any of the readers.
this book was provided by the author in exchange for honest literary review.
August 30, 2015
I love this author and I usually love her books. But I will be very honest with this review. It took me forever to read this book. I just had no interest, the book/story did not hold my interest at all.
Ms. DeWees is an excellent author, and writes extremely well. This book however felt like it drug on and on, I felt that there was some unnecessary descriptions and rambling on.
The story is complicated. Sybil was a very strong character, and I loved her. I enjoyed the banter between her and Roderick.
But sadly, I am not a fan of this book. I still however look forward to the next book this author releases.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Ms. DeWees is an excellent author, and writes extremely well. This book however felt like it drug on and on, I felt that there was some unnecessary descriptions and rambling on.
The story is complicated. Sybil was a very strong character, and I loved her. I enjoyed the banter between her and Roderick.
But sadly, I am not a fan of this book. I still however look forward to the next book this author releases.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2019
I'm a fan of Victorian Gothic mystery/romance, and this satisfied my need for an atmospheric read with wicked characters challenging Sybil every step of the way. Although some of the protagonist's decisions made me question her thought process, she was compelling enough to entice me to purchase the second book in the series.
January 9, 2015
This is the best of Ms. DeWees' gothic novels so far! The mood is eerie and perfect the whole way through, and the touches of humor made her characters charmingly realistic. I devoured the whole thing in one afternoon, with much delight all the way through.
February 21, 2017
This book was a bit too much of a Victorian romance novel and less of a mystery. I enjoyed reading it and it moved along well. There was too much foreshadowing, which made it fairly easy to unravel the mystery early on in the book, without wanting to.
July 31, 2018
This is one of those books that is defined as a "guilty pleasure." Amanda DeWees' Nocturne for a Widow is a fun but rather predictable read. Sybil Ingram is an actress past her prime (a.k.a. almost 30). She has decided to settle down with a hotel mogul... who she soon finds out is completely bankrupt... and he also dies on their wedding night. She leaves to stake a claim to his country estate and has a battle of wills with her late husband's step son for the property. Oh yeah... it's also haunted.
Sybil was an okay protagonist. She's a little oblivious, far too trusting, and overly dramatic, but she has a spark and wonderful candor that made me appreciate her. However, I was very disappointed in the love story. Roderick was a wretched person who constantly sexualized and berated her. They both had the emotional capacity of 14-year-olds. They had one heart felt conversation and went from super hatred to super in love super fast. I rolled my eyes every time a stupid pet name was uttered... why are you calling someone you kissed once "darling"? My hope is that this was a tongue-in-cheek commentary on early Victorian/Gothic romances... but I really don't know.
The entire story lacked depth. Themes of age, identity, sexuality, and loyalty were touched upon but the conclusion undermined most of the independent, self-made woman talk. The motives of the other characters were also superficial. It was just a strange mix of Victorian sensibilities, supernatural occurrences, and attempts at feminism.
That being said, the supernatural element gave the story the "umph" is needed to be something other than Victorian-esque drivel. The Gothic style and Sybil's open mindedness was entertaining and gave the novel a dimension it was sorely needing.
Nocturne for a Widow was a quick, relatively superficial read. There was not much focus on characters, motives, or plot, but it was a fun book none-the-less. If you like supernatural murder mysteries with an entertaining female protagonist and a Gothic style, you'd definitely enjoy this. I'm not sure if I will read the 2nd book. If I do, it will be to try and find some depth and redeeming quality for Roderick, who I don't think deserves Sybil in the slightest.
Sybil was an okay protagonist. She's a little oblivious, far too trusting, and overly dramatic, but she has a spark and wonderful candor that made me appreciate her. However, I was very disappointed in the love story. Roderick was a wretched person who constantly sexualized and berated her. They both had the emotional capacity of 14-year-olds. They had one heart felt conversation and went from super hatred to super in love super fast. I rolled my eyes every time a stupid pet name was uttered... why are you calling someone you kissed once "darling"? My hope is that this was a tongue-in-cheek commentary on early Victorian/Gothic romances... but I really don't know.
The entire story lacked depth. Themes of age, identity, sexuality, and loyalty were touched upon but the conclusion undermined most of the independent, self-made woman talk. The motives of the other characters were also superficial. It was just a strange mix of Victorian sensibilities, supernatural occurrences, and attempts at feminism.
That being said, the supernatural element gave the story the "umph" is needed to be something other than Victorian-esque drivel. The Gothic style and Sybil's open mindedness was entertaining and gave the novel a dimension it was sorely needing.
Nocturne for a Widow was a quick, relatively superficial read. There was not much focus on characters, motives, or plot, but it was a fun book none-the-less. If you like supernatural murder mysteries with an entertaining female protagonist and a Gothic style, you'd definitely enjoy this. I'm not sure if I will read the 2nd book. If I do, it will be to try and find some depth and redeeming quality for Roderick, who I don't think deserves Sybil in the slightest.
March 25, 2019
This very gothic, highly melodramatic, mystery, romance is a delightful romp through the snow-covered, deserted countryside of New York. Every melodrama needs a virilely, manly, masculine superhero and we have one with black curls longing to be tousled, dark brooding eyes that hint of a deeply tragic past, and skin that glows golden in the lamp light. Not to be outdone, our heroine is a badly maligned former actress in her virginal white camisole, corset, pantaloons, and stockings with her angelic golden curls and a single tear slowly sliding from her cornflower blue eyes (sliding down from only one eye), across her pale pink cheek. Our virile, manly, etc., hero must gallantly cover her with his coat. But what makes a true melodrama is the villain. Without a perfectly awful, sinister and cruel, dastardly being, there would be no melodrama. And our villain fits the bill. Except, she is a villainess! Icy cold, hard as steel, cunning and conniving, she is Hans Christian Anderson's Snow Queen personified. (And I don't mean Disney's sweet little Elsa who sings, "And the cold never bothered my anyhow." Think Cruella!) There are a few other characters to round out the cast - the preacher and his grieving sister, the handsome young doctor, 2 housekeepers and a maid. The characters are ready to begin. This book is meant to be read in a cozy little room, sitting on a comfortable couch, wrapped in Great-Grandma's quilt, a brightly colored braid rug on the floor, a crackling fire in the heart, a reading lamp at your side, a cup of hot cocoa with REAL whipped cream (not marshmellows or Cool-Whip!) and a kitten purring at your feet. So armed, you are now ready to enter .....t h e h a u n t e d h o u s e. And there are our lovers - Catherine and Heathcliff, Romeo and juliet, Hansel and Gretal... No wait, that is a different story. This is certainly not great writing, it was never intended to be. It is fun, entertaining and ends happily ever after. What more could a reader want?
July 8, 2024
This book was an incredibly delightful experience; I couldn’t put it down! Interesting, deep characters, a fun and spooky setting, and absolutely gorgeous writing to boot!
Though there were paranormal themes - and actually there was a ghost, and some spooky moments inside the haunted gothic manor - I definitely wouldn’t call this a horror. The mystery also wasn’t much of a mystery at all, though I appreciated that the “mystery” concept wasn’t so dragged out - the main character made her realizations all alongside the reader, it seemed - no muss, no fuss, no batting us around or hemming and hawing for the sake of lengthening the plot.
Actually, I think that was one of my favorite parts about this book: I LOVED Sybil. Her thought processes were so believable and painfully relatable at times. She was smart as a whip but would second guess herself at times, she was brave and strong but also insecure… just all-around incredibly believable as a character, I thought.
Some of the other characters were truly anger-inducing, but Sybil’s thought processes surrounding all her relationships - her anger, her rationalization, when she forgave and why she forgave - it all seemed very sound and very *human*, and I was able to go right along with her decisions with very little disagreement.
I was surprised at how much I truly loved this book. Above all, it was a historical romance (no spice, for those who care) with paranormal undertones. But in addition, the writing was a treat; the characters incredibly lovable; the setting intriguing; and the themes of femininity alongside feminism (*incredibly* well-done while not pulling you out of the context of the era), pick-me behavior vs. true female friendship & support, the plight of the artist, loss and loneliness and love and fear… Honestly, it was all so satisfying and I couldn’t put it down!
TW: Death, parent death, grief, misogyny and patriarchy (handled very well), ghosts, witchcraft, pick-me behavior, fear of gaslighting, abandonment, brief discussion of adultery and extreme domestic violence
Though there were paranormal themes - and actually there was a ghost, and some spooky moments inside the haunted gothic manor - I definitely wouldn’t call this a horror. The mystery also wasn’t much of a mystery at all, though I appreciated that the “mystery” concept wasn’t so dragged out - the main character made her realizations all alongside the reader, it seemed - no muss, no fuss, no batting us around or hemming and hawing for the sake of lengthening the plot.
Actually, I think that was one of my favorite parts about this book: I LOVED Sybil. Her thought processes were so believable and painfully relatable at times. She was smart as a whip but would second guess herself at times, she was brave and strong but also insecure… just all-around incredibly believable as a character, I thought.
Some of the other characters were truly anger-inducing, but Sybil’s thought processes surrounding all her relationships - her anger, her rationalization, when she forgave and why she forgave - it all seemed very sound and very *human*, and I was able to go right along with her decisions with very little disagreement.
I was surprised at how much I truly loved this book. Above all, it was a historical romance (no spice, for those who care) with paranormal undertones. But in addition, the writing was a treat; the characters incredibly lovable; the setting intriguing; and the themes of femininity alongside feminism (*incredibly* well-done while not pulling you out of the context of the era), pick-me behavior vs. true female friendship & support, the plight of the artist, loss and loneliness and love and fear… Honestly, it was all so satisfying and I couldn’t put it down!
TW: Death, parent death, grief, misogyny and patriarchy (handled very well), ghosts, witchcraft, pick-me behavior, fear of gaslighting, abandonment, brief discussion of adultery and extreme domestic violence
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