The Phantom's Bride

by H.K. Sears

Words are dangerous. Ghost stories come to life. And one girl has a choice to make.

Camilla Verne has secured the match of the season with her engagement to Valentin Steinbauer, the Duke of Anhalt. But there are disturbing rumours about her betrothed which she can’t ignore.

The delights of the Frost Fair come to London, and Camilla crosses paths with Finley Renwick, a storyteller struggling to make ends meet. But Finley is no ordinary performer. He is a gifted word weaver, who has the power to spin ghost stories into life.

When Finley twists the rumours about the duke into a story of murder and betrayal, the ghost of Valentin’s brother slips through the veil. But has he come for revenge, or to warn Camilla about her betrothed?

The Phantom’s Bride is a fast-paced gothic fantasy that re-imagines Regency England as a world full of ghosts and magic. It is the first instalment of a YA trilogy, and is perfect for fans of Bridgerton and The Phantom of the Opera.

Genres: Fantasy

373 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 3, 2025

About the author

H. K. Sears is a writer from Shropshire, and, growing up, she owned more books than toys. She’s spent her life devouring tales of fantasy and magic, and now loves to take inspiration from history to craft her own fantasy novels.

She has a first-class degree in Creative Writing from De Montfort University, and it was during this degree that she fell in love with indie publishing and bashed out a very, very, rough draft of The Phantom’s Bride.

When not writing, H. K. can be found working part time as a barista, singing with her choir, or snuggled up with her latest knitting project.

Reviews

[✨ Dawn ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC

I absolutely LOVED this book, it was a refreshing change from my usual genres.

From the first chapter I couldn’t put it down, the writing style is immersive and found myself IN the story easily due to the in depth descriptions. You really got a sense of the eerie and unknown, that unsettling feeling in your stomach while reading, not knowing what to expect, and the plot twist? *Chefs kiss*

The story and concept was unique to me, I haven’t read anything like it before. I can’t wait to continue the story in book 2.

[Nicoles_bookishlife · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

Thank you to Hannah for the opportunity to recieve an ALC in exhange for an honest review, it is much appreciated.

The Phantom's Bride caught my attention through both the stunning cover art, and the overall premise of the story. It delivered a rich, gothic atmosphere which captured my attention at the start. The setting feels wonderfully eerie, and the overarching plot blends a regency era mystery with a haunting ghost story quite well. It makes for a decent halloween read!

Unfortunately, I did struggle somewhat to connect with the execution of the story. The pacing felt a little uneven to me in parts which made it quite difficult to stay engaged. I was on the fence about continuing the story, at around 40% I considered DNFing as I still hadn't connected to the characters and I didn't find myself very invested in them or rooting for anyone in particular. I did choose to push through reading and finish the story in order to give a fair review.

I think it's clear that for me this specific book just wasn't the right fit for my personal reading tastes. However, readers who prioritise a deep and moody, gothic mystery will likely find a lot to love here!

[Cristina M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. From the very first chapter I was pulled straight into Regency London with its gothic atmosphere and haunting twists. The mix of high society, romance, and ghostly suspense made this such an exciting and unique read.

The characters felt real and layered, and I especially enjoyed Camilla’s journey as she faced both romance and danger. The tension between her duty, her heart, and the supernatural kept me turning the pages quickly.

H. K. Sears writes beautifully and creates a world that feels both elegant and eerie at the same time. I finished this book in just a couple of sittings because I didn’t want to put it down.

I received this book as an ARC and I am so glad I did. It has made me a fan of this series already and I cannot wait for the next book!

[Love_mybooknook · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is perfect for this time of year. The spooky wintery vibes were amazing and the world building was done incredibly. This book is set in regency England and I loved every second of the gossip and drama that came with it. This book follows Camilla Verne as she begins to have second doubts about her fiancé, Valentin Steinbauer. After an unpleasant meeting with Camilla, a storyteller, Finley Renwick, spins an unpleasant tale about her betrothed and unknowingly let's the ghost of Valentin's brother slip into their world and he's determined to take his revenge. Finley discovers he is a Word Weaver who has the ability to bring stories to life and
aids Camilla, who is determined to sabotage her wedding.

This book had romance, tension and excitement and I cannot wait for book 2 to find out what happens next. It was a great start to the series and desperately need more!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ruth · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

The Phantoms Bride is a gothic, historical fantasy filled with twists, drama, and the best wintery vibes.
H.K. Sears writing is so immersing and beautiful. The historical accuracy (minus the magic) is incredible and makes the story and atmosphere fully fleshed out. Their descriptions of the frost fair were amazing, and I wish I could visit 😅
I loved the "magic" system in this being story telling, I love bookish things in books!
Every character had so much depth, and I like that this is a multiple POV book so we can learn more about the characters.

I really want to gush about the finer plot points, but I don't want to spoil the book for others.
I think you would love this book if you loved The Night Circus (for the frost fair), Belladonna (for the gothic vibes) and Lies of Locke Lamora (for the historical, dark elements of this book)

👰‍♀Synopsis 👻
Her fate lies with one of two brothers, but whether it’s the murdered or the murderer, only she can decide.

Camilla Verne has secured the match of the season with her engagement to Valentin Steinbauer, the Duke of Anhalt. But there are disturbing rumours about her betrothed which she can’t ignore.

The delights of the Frost Fair come to London, and Camilla crosses paths with Finley Renwick, a storyteller struggling to make ends meet. They get off on the wrong foot, and Finley twists the rumours about Valentin into a story of murder and betrayal.

But Finley is no ordinary performer. He is a gifted word weaver, who has the power to spin ghost stories into life. The ghost of Valentin’s brother slips through the veil, and he has come for revenge.

When the ghost reveals his brother’s darkest secret, Camilla, once so excited about her upcoming wedding, is now determined to ruin it.

Final note:
Thank you so much to @novel.tours for including me in the promotion for this stunning book. Also, an extra big thank you to H.K Sears for taking the time to write a personalised message in this PR copy 🥹 the sweetest.

[whatcarlyreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect time of year for historical fantasy fiction and so I was very excited to receive this debut from H.K. Sears, which promised to be a perfect seasonal read and didn't disappoint.
Regency England, and Lady Camilla Verne has secured the match of the season with her engagement to Valentin Steinbauer, the Duke of Anhalt. But days before the wedding Lady Camilla discovers a dark secret about her fiancée which she cannot ignore.
Finley Renwick is a struggling storyteller who meets Lady Camilla at the Frost Fair. Renwick is no ordinary storyteller, however, as he possesses the power to spin stories into real life and as he spins his tale of murder and betrayal, the ghost of Valentin's brother slips through the veil to seek his revenge.
This is a perfect autumn read, transporting you to Regency London with a gothic ghostly twist in the tale.
The story combines the gossip and scandal of the regency court with magical storytelling, gothic vibes, and different realms. I loved the Frost Fair, and the writing is so immersive I could picture myself there. I was really rooting for Camilla and hoping she would be able to escape her engagement to Valentin, and I enjoyed her relationship with both her loyal governess Mildred and Finaly the storyteller. A perfect spooky read for those autumn nights. I can't wait to read the next one!

[S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Goodness. 30% in and I could already tell this book was going to be a 5 star read.

Set in 19th century London, we follow Camilla, Finley and crew as they discover a dark, hidden world seeping through into their own. With the aid of a spirit, Carmilla discovers something about her fiancé that changes her desire to be married - but the spirits’ message isn’t as it seems.

The Phantom’s Bride is a beautifully written book, easy to understand in the modern day yet somehow reflecting the eloquence of the time period of the setting. The descriptives provide truly horrifying imagery at times, making the tale gripping and suspenseful. All throughout the story, there is an eerily haunting vibe that keeps you on edge, portraying the dangers of both the living and the dead.

There is a diverse range of personalities throughout the characters, and their relationships change and develop throughout the book in a believable, well-paced way. Moreover, there are elements of the book that truly reflect what life was like during the time - from old medicines to social structure. A great period piece for the history lovers, I’m sure!

Really, I couldnt recommend this book enough - especially for spooky season. Great thanks to H. K. Sears for allowing me to be part of the ARC team of this amazing book.

[Kez Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a chilling mystery set in regency England, with a gothic atmosphere that explores the occult, and the veil between realms.
Camilla is set to marry Duke Valentin, a desirable match in society although rumours surround him of his brother's death and unrest in his home Country.
After a chance meeting with Finley - a storyteller in town, Camilla is drawn into a hidden world and haunted by a vengeful spirit that puts doubts in her mind about her fiancé, and the reasons for their rushed wedding plans.
Meanwhile the storyteller learns his affinity for stories are a hidden gift and dangerous ability that he must learn to harness to save Camilla.
It's a suspenseful tale, filled with society gossip and scandals, deception and betrayal, and a ghost's need for revenge.
I loved the descriptive works, enjoyed the twists and range of characters, and learning about the family's gifts.
I am interested to see more of this series.

[Clarisse · Rating 4 out of 5]

H.K. Sears has crafted an atmospheric and chilling Gothic novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. The story flows seamlessly, and the tension, supernatural elements, and the character’s exceptional storytelling talent are captivating. The vivid world-building transports you to the Regency era.

Reading about the gossip and how it could ruin someone’s reputation during this time was infuriating. It’s a stark reminder of how easily one lie can unravel another person’s life.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys tropes like magic and revenge, as well as a well-written story. It’s definitely worth reading.

[Sara Jesus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two brothers. A vengeful ghost. The bride that will try the solve the mystery of the duke´s murder. And the storyteller that can some spirits with is words, also loves teatre. I really enjoy Camille and Finley stories. Camille was a little naive in the begin and seems to only care about her status, but after discover the world full of spirts she became more likely. I confess that I like Finley since the begin, even when he seems more selfish. He was very sweet with his mother and really shine in the stage. Mildred was one of my favorite characters. She was more a mother figure to Camille that her own mother that only wants that her daughater marries. She really worried about her and made everything to protect her. That priest was a very complex character, that I have mix feelings.

[Franki · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Her fate lies with two brothers, but whether it’s the murdered or the murderer, only she can decide".

Thank you to the author for the ARC!

This book is the perfect historical ghost story for spooky season!

Set in Regency-era London during the final Frost Fair, when the Thames froze over and citizens could walk across the ice, we follow the storyteller Finley Renwick, who is trying to keep his finances afloat by telling stories to passers-by, and the soon-to-be Duchess of Anhalt, Camilla Verne.

After an encounter where Renwick weaves a tale about the rumours surrounding her betrothed having murdered his own brother, Camilla and Renwick find themselves embroiled in a twisted tale of phantoms, murder, and betrayal.

The descriptions in this book were phenomenal, and I could easily picture every location in spectacular detail. The two protagonists were sympathetic and relatable, and the side characters all added important aspects to the storyline. The phantom was delightfully spooky and I loved the flashback/memory sequences.

And can we talk about the TWIST? Because really, I totally didn't see it coming (I had an inkling that all was not as it seemed but my suspicions were totally off!).

I can't wait to see where the second book takes this because I loved this one so much!

[Natalie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

what an amazing story. I was hooked. I loved the concept of the story and all of the different characters brought so much to the book. I did not see the plot twist coming at all!
The world building was so good and I can't wait to here more about the word weavers and their abilities. Camillas character developed so much through this book and im looking forward to seeing were she takes us next.

[Brogan Lane · Rating 4 out of 5]

fascinating beginning to a trilogy! so spooky and all the characters are endearing

RTC

[a r u s h i · Rating 4 out of 5]

so i just finished the phantom’s bride by h.k. sears and honestly? this book had me clutching my metaphorical pearls and side-eyeing every charming man in a waistcoat. it’s gothic, it’s dramatic, it’s got that perfect blend of candlelit yearning and “oh god, what just crawled out of the shadows?” energy. i went in expecting ghosts and got emotional damage with a side of lace and trauma. 10/10 atmosphere. yeah, this one absolutely dragged me into the victorian fog and refused to let go. it’s gothic, eerie, and beautifully written with that perfect mix of death, and yearning. i swear, every page felt like inhaling cold mist and old secrets.

this was my first book by the author, and holy hell the writing style? stunning. poetic but sharp, atmospheric but not heavy. every description hits, from the frost fairs and their sugar-glass flowers to the haunting tension between characters. it’s that kind of prose that makes you want to underline every other line just to whisper “damn.” sears has this magical ability to make you feel the era: the grime, the lace, the danger , all tangled together like silk over a blade.

the plot? deliciously layered. it’s not just a ghost story; it’s a web of grief, love, revenge, and curses that feel too human to dismiss. the pacing flows beautifully : slow burn but with purpose, letting the relationships breathe and rot at the same time. i loved how the characters orbit each other : finley, camilla, valentin : every interaction laced with longing, distrust, and that gothic ache of “we’re all doomed but let’s make it beautiful.” and that confession scene near the end?? shivers. that was cinematic.

also, can we talk about the emotion?? the last few chapters : the duke’s confession, the new company — literally cracked my heart open. finley’s grief scenes? devastating. i actually paused and reread lines just to process how gentle and raw they were. it’s rare for a gothic story to balance its horror and tenderness so well, but this one nails it.

so yeah. the phantom’s bride is haunting in every sense — in its story, in its emotions, in how it lingers long after you close the last page. this was such an immersive experience, and i genuinely can’t wait to read more from h.k. sears. giving this a solid 4.2/5, it’s moody, tragic, and so damn satisfying.

massive thanks to h.k. sears and book sirens for the arc copy 🖤 i’m officially obsessed and mildly heartbroken in the best possible way.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew from the first chapter that this was my kind of book. The regency setting paired with a gothic setting created a very haunting atmosphere which was a perfect read for this time of the year.

The story is set during the 1800's, Lady Camilla Verne has managed to secure her engagement to the very eligible Duke of Anhalt, Valentin Steinbauer. However, not all is as seems with her match. There is gossip surrounding the death of his brother and who was at fault for his death. Camilla crosses paths with our storyteller/word weaver Finley Renwick who manages to pull the ghost of the dead brother into their world. Both Camilla and Finley need to work together when the the ghost reveals a dark secret.

I fell in love with the authors style of writing as she managed to build a lot of suspense and intrigues around the main characters of the story which built and added to the plot. I really enjoyed the way the author created two different storylines with the main characters whilst connecting them together. Both Finley and Camilla have their own worries and duties that they must deal with whilst balancing the secrets and lies that keep them linked together. I really enjoyed the scenes where Camilla is taken into the past to understand the brothers relationship to piece together the puzzle of what happened to Jan. I was very caught off guard when the twist happened as I did not see that coming. I had so many OMG moments throughout this book which made it all the more enjoyable as I just couldn't put it down.

I am really excited to see how the story continues in the sequel as the ending left me thinking what is going to happen next. This is the perfect spooky read for anyone that loves a good mystery book set during the regency period.

Thank you very much to the author and novel tours for gifting the book to me in exchange for an honest review.

[Christine Choptovy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly engrossing and captivating fantasy/magical/supernatural tale! The novel is set in 19th century London during a bitterly cold winter. Camilla has become betrothed to Valentin, the Duke of Anhalt. There is an air of suspicion surrounding her fiancee because many people suspect he was responsible for the murder of his older brother Jan. If his brother was still alive, Valentin would not have inherited his title. Jan couldn't compare to his younger, stronger, healthier, more virile and popular brother.

The Frost Fair has come to London and many vendors have set up stalls on the river Thames. One of the tents belongs to a man named Finley, who weaves tales that fully captivate his audience. Camilla has heard of his talents and decides to visit his tent with her governess and her friend. Somehow, he's able to vividly tell the story of the two brothers. He explains that the true heir is trapped in the spirit realm and wishes for a chance to break through the veil and get revenge on the living brother. He tells Camilla that when it's biting cold out and the rivers are frozen over, the ghost will be able to pass through the veil and will ruin the living brother. Since the tale felt like the listeners were actually present to witness the stories events, Mildred realizes that Finley is a word weaver and speaks his words into truth. She accuses him of releasing a spirit into their midst. Is Finley really a word weaver? Will the living heir be terrorized by the dead heir? What will happen to Camilla and her marriage to Valentin? You'll have to read the story to find out! Especially when there a plenty of twists and turns to this tale.

I received an ARC and this review is my personal opinion.

[Michelle Ryles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! The Phantom's Bride is one of the best fantasy books I have ever read. It's an outstanding debut from H. K. Sears and a cracking first book in a trilogy - I hope she writes quickly as I am chomping at the bit to read more.

Set in winter 1814 where The Frost Fair is being held on a frozen River Thames. Although you wouldn't catch me walking on ice, it sounds completely magical and I loved the inventive and vivid depictions of the various sights and sounds a visitor to the fair would experience.

The class divide is evident when Camilla Verne, who is set to become a duchess, meets word weaver Finlay Renwick. Finlay throws Camilla's engagement into doubt when he releases a spirit during his storytelling about the duke and his brother. Camilla doesn't know what to believe as there are disturbing rumours about the duke and we all know that there's no smoke without fire.

Ooooooh this book is so good. It's scary, dangerous and riveting; some of the scenes would have had me hiding behind my virtual sofa if I could have torn my eyes from the page. I loved the characters, the Regency era and the imaginative plot that is like a supernatural Bridgerton. The writing is sublime and very accomplished for a debut novel.

Beguiling, compelling and incredibly entertaining, The Phantom's Bride is an incredible debut novel and a very exciting start to a magical trilogy. A very highly recommended read; if you don't usually read fantasy The Phantom's Bride might make you change your mind.

[Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book.

3.5, but I rounded down because it's not as good as other 3.5s that I rounded up.

I really liked this book at the beginning. I was immediately pulled into Camilla's story, even though I didn't care much for Finley (he grew on me, though). The character development for the primary characters was great, but I hate Eliza, and I don't think she deserves any consideration or forgiveness at all, and Mildred felt a little one-note.

The book was so spooky, and I really loved the atmosphere. It's great for a pre-Halloween read. The imagery surrounding everything involving spirits and the spirit world was A+ work, and I was completely drawn in. It even spooked me enough that one night I had to stop reading early and do something else so that I would be able to go to bed without the fear of nightmares!

The story started to come undone for me by the end. I saw the big twist coming from a mile away, and I didn't find it to be particularly believable (which is saying a lot, since I was completely wrapped up in the spirit world that exists in this book). Some of the other smaller twists seemed just a little too convenient, and the ending felt far too much like it was tied neatly with a bow. After the second possession, things just moved too quickly, and it felt like the author said to herself, "Whelp, time to wrap this up!"

I'm interested to see what this author writes in the future. This book did not stick its landing for me, but I enjoyed the ride.

[Rosie Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m desperate not to give much of anything away, because the way this story unfolded was so fun, so rather than a plot breakdown, I’m going to talk about vibes.

The setting feels very Bridgerton coded- there’s mention of Camilla, one of the main characters, finding a match this season, there’s her betrothed, Valentin, who’s reputation is being questioned by the scandal sheets. If you love the regency vibes, then this has plenty of those.

But there’s also Finley, not just a great story teller, but a word weaver, who has the power to bring ghost stories to life. The veil is thin, there are ghosts, there’s magic.

The whole thing is unpredictable, in a great way. It feels like a proper ghost story, with mystery, and moments that made my jaw drop.

I liked the writing style a lot, it was descriptive enough to feel immersive, but without being overwhelming.

I’m really enjoying reading books like this with fantasy elements in an otherwise realistic setting, and reading this just as the weather is cooling has been perfect. As we get into winter, this is going to be such a great, atmospheric read.

Read this if you love:

Phantom of the Opera

Bridgerton (but make it kinda spooky)

Mystery, scandal and vengeance

Ghost stories

[What-Rian-Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

What drew me to this book was the setting, I felt like I was being transported to a gothic regency London and its frost fair sounded amazing. It was a book and setting worthy of a bridgeton style romances and scandals but also a setting for a classic ghost story.

There is such a mix of characters in this book from high society to performers struggling to find their place in the world. I really enjoyed the juxtaposition between them and how their worlds weaved together in sometimes unexpected ways, caught up in a ghosts desire for revenge.

At the start I did not like the main female character Camilla she was how I envisioned upper class ladies in regency London more concerned about her place in society than those around her. However as the book developed and Camilla has to battle and challenge the terrifying unknown she became a power to be reckoned with determined to right past wrongs.

A descriptive dive into the blurred lines between realms, the fine line between life and the spirit world, dark and twisted scenes of the past impacting on today.

Overall it was at times a suspenseful read with unexpected twists, scandal and heartbreak, as-well as a storyteller with the power to immerse you into the descriptive world of words and writing on a page.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical fiction with a haunting twist. I was completely hooked!

The Phantom’s Bride is set during the 1814 Frost Fair and follows the story of two characters: Finley Renwick and Camilla Verne. Finley is a down on his luck storyteller who’s struggling to get by, while Camilla is a young woman from high society who’s preparing for her wedding day. The pair meet at the Frost Fair and Finley spins a twisted tale about Camilla’s fiancé. Needless to say, they take an instant dislike to one another. Finley and Camilla find they must work together though when they’re thrust into the midst of scandal, deception and a brother’s need for revenge…

H. K. Sears’ writing pulls you in immediately and paints such a vivid picture of the time period. She seamlessly weaves together historical fact with the supernatural to re-imagine Regency London as an eerie place filled with malevolent spirits.

Amongst all the suspense, there were some real heart-warming moments filled with love and friendship. I found myself becoming very attached to these characters and feeling genuinely distressed for them at particular moments.

The Phantom’s Bride, with its gothic atmosphere and icy setting, is the perfect book for this time of year. I highly recommend that you give it a read!

[Lindsey_reads_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this gothic fantasy. It’s the perfect book for the season. I can’t wait for the book trailer!

“I don’t see any ghouls or ghosties here, but if I’m wrong, I would welcome their company.” His gaze hardened. “It’s a lonely city, after all.”

I was completely invested from the beginning with Finley and Camilla, two characters from different parts of London society. The Frost Fair was intriguing and I enjoyed how the book became more eerie as I read. The fantasy side was perfect! The twist with magic and spirits set in London was fantastic, 5 star book for me. What was really refreshing is that the two main characters are not a couple but cross path to create a ghostly story. There is love but it’s doomed and a sad twist, no spoilers from me!

I LOVED Camilla and her growth and development throughout the book. She is a lady of proper London society engaged to a duke, but a ghostly scandal brings twist and surprises that had me on the edge of my seat.

“It was the fantasy of some silly noble girl who’d never experienced hardship in her life. Who’d never realised that the world was full of wrongs and misdeeds, that justice was rare. One wasn’t entitled to it, simply lucky if it fell into one’s lap.“

I will be looking forward to the next book in the Spirit Realm Saga

[Carmen Whittemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saying The Phantom's Bride is a spooky Bridgerton doesn't give this book enough credit. From the first chapter I felt like I was reading a classic Gothic novel. More like A Dreadful Splendor than Bridgerton (for me). We're taken to regency England in the middle of a cold winter that freezes over the Thames, opening the Frost Fair, where the beauty and magic quickly turns into something much darker for our main cast. First we have Finley, a low born playwright with a magical gift he doesn't know how to control, and a secret he'll do anything to protect. Next there's Camilla, a high born daughter, days away from marrying and becoming a duchess who instead becomes possessed as a result of Finley's wounded pride and cavalier use of a gift he doesn't know he has. And Mildred, Camilla's governess who would sacrifice everything to protect her, with a dark past of her own. Each has a distinct voice and motivations that I could get behind to root for. The spirit world they unveil is unique and gripping, and the hints are perfectly dropped along the way for the big reveal at the end. Looking forward to book two!

[Megan Cassidy · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5 stars for H.K. Sears’ The Phantom’s Bride!

Woweee! I loved how this combined a gothic style in regency era London, with a fabulous paranormal theme!!

I really felt transported back in time to 1800’s London, faced with the terrifying reality of situations back in the day that would have been horrendous to deal with, mixed with this awesome ghost story and paranormal world, just created the most enthralling visual for this story!

I was so immersed in this world and I devoured this book! The characters are layered and so well written. The redemption arcs and growth is superb!

The story was brilliantly written and the twists were fabulous! Oh what it must have been to be a young lady, debuting in society, while dressed in finery! .. oh what it must have been to be involved in a twisted ghost story and to be in the middle of it all 👀

This is a genre I definitely need to see more of! I was totally lost in this world, and I didn’t want the story to end.. please say there is more?

[Hulda · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Phantom's Bride is a book with a fairy-tale quality. It takes the reader into a fantasy version of regency London and it works well evoking this wrold. I especially enjoyed the idea of a frost fair takeing place on a frozen over Thames.

The story alterates between two points of view, Camilla's - a lord's daughter's about to be married, and Finlay's - a storyteller's who has fallen on hard times. I enjoyed Finlay as a character much more. He is more complex, better fleshed out and makes some choices that the reader knows will land him in trouble. Camilla, for me, lacked his depth.

Overall, it is a very nice, escapist read. Personally, I found it a bit too fairy-tale-like. I like a story to feel more real, even if it's set in a fantasy world. Also, some question about the nature of the phenomena described were vaguely and insufficiently answered. However, it is a matter of taste and I am sure many readers would love this book, so four stars.

[Katy.Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

This book was so beautifully written and dare I say intricately plotted. I fell in love with the story and character development, the further I delved into the book. Originally, I was not a fan of the main protagonist, Finley, and frankly found him quite annoying. However, towards the end of the book, I was empathising with him and really enjoying the dynamic between him and Camilla.

I read this as part of an advanced reader project, and I am so happy I was given the opportunity to review this book, which had such a unique plot and storyline. I loved the historical element of the story, and felt it added to the ongoing eerie atmosphere and gothic style. The paranomal and fantasy elements in the book were also lovely additions. I am thrilled to have read this book before publication and am very much looking forward to reading the second book in the series.

[Nadine-Sue Sargent · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finley and his gift is fascinating. I've heard of storytellers and met people who say it's a hobby of theirs. This story takes it beyond just telling a take to it being an inherited gifts that can split realms.

Finley's a good guy but definitely down on his luck. I thought Eliza might be important to him but the message in this is clear, people are not who they first appear to be! She's important to a point and gets Camilla where she needs to be.

I thought Camilla grew a lot as the story progressed and it was good to see how things turned out better for the people that deserved good outcomes!!

I did enjoy this . Ive spent a lot of time recently disappearing in crime fiction so it was a nice change to read something with a supernatural feel. I liked Finley early on but wasn't sure about some of the others. Camilla grew on me and I thought Charles was good for Finley in the end.

[Ash_reads24 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phantom bride review

🕯️Regency London
🕯️Magical Storyteller
🕯️Brothers to Enemies
🕯️Gothic vibes
🕯️Wedding gone wrong

This was absolutely perfection 19th century England London, think gothic bridgeton vibes Frost fair has come to London, we meet Finley who weaves tales to his audiences. Camilla is intrigued by his talents decides to visit his tent ⛺️ in search for his tales. He tells of a shocking story of two brothers he tells of the true Heir being trapped in the spirit realm, I’m not going to say much of what happens from here but wow let’s just say will the ghosts pass through the veil, what will happen to Camilla’s marriage to Valentin? You must read to discover the shocking h twists and turns in this book! I absolutely was hooked from 30 pages in and that’s what I loved about this book. I throughly enjoyed the characters and atmosphere the author has created.

[Amira (a.muses_) · Rating 5 out of 5]

HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY, @h.k.sears.writes!!! 🎉

The storytelling was hauntingly wholesome, it was beautifully written, ghostly eerie, and plot-driven. Even set in Regency era, I felt like there's a feel to it that were easily reflected and understood in modern times.

All the characters from the mains to the supports, they all felt real, layered, and very easy to love. There were personality collisions too which made it more entertaining. I was laughing at some of the exchanges and it just made my day.

So yes, if you want a book that has Bridgerton feels but has supernatural aspect to it, you will love this!! As, I absolutely enjoyed it! Thank you for the early copy @h.k.sears.writes, so happy that I have came acrossed it. It was a captivating read and I cannot wait to read the next ones! Recommended! ✨️

[Emma_bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked into this haunting, historical fiction early on. Camilla is visiting a dockside fair and meets Mr Renwick, a storyteller but unbeknownst to her, he has a secret. There is an underlying story here of two brothers, one will become the leader of the town but is seen as weak, he is the true birthright but his younger brother is well loved amongst the people. Is there rivalry there? Of course! But is it more than brotherly rivalry?

I like Mildred, always by Camilla's side to aid her in whatever she needs. I like the twist, I didn't see it coming and I liked the mention of seeing memories, as you are a ghost, watching from the sidelines. Reminds me of Christmas Carol and ghosts of Christmas past etc.

I enjoyed this and binged over half in one sitting, a good read and perfect for the time of year!

A good first book to what looks to be a good series.