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Pearl Bound
She came to serve the rich. She awakened to burn them down.
"A chilling, addictive read with a powerful protagonist...Verdict: Get It!" - Kirkus Reviews
In the waning days of the Gilded Age, Irish immigrant Eve Kelly accepts a coveted position at Greythorne, a mansion built on wealth, excess, and ruthless power. Behind its glittering façade, the Rennard family preys on the vulnerable—especially the women who serve them.
As Eve is drawn into the house’s seductive, dangerous orbit—and into a forbidden intimacy with the daughter of the family—she begins to uncover a legacy of violence hidden beneath chandeliers and silk.
But the house is not the only thing with a history.
Something ancient stirs in Eve’s blood—a power inherited from generations of women who survived by becoming something more than obedient. As predation tightens its grip, the servant they meant to consume becomes the reckoning they never saw coming.
Pearl Bound is a gothic historical horror novel steeped in female rage, class tension, queer desire, and the terrifying cost of autonomy.
Perfect for readers of dark horror such as Mexican Gothic, A Dowry of Blood, Dark Sisters and Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil.
"A chilling, addictive read with a powerful protagonist...Verdict: Get It!" - Kirkus Reviews
In the waning days of the Gilded Age, Irish immigrant Eve Kelly accepts a coveted position at Greythorne, a mansion built on wealth, excess, and ruthless power. Behind its glittering façade, the Rennard family preys on the vulnerable—especially the women who serve them.
As Eve is drawn into the house’s seductive, dangerous orbit—and into a forbidden intimacy with the daughter of the family—she begins to uncover a legacy of violence hidden beneath chandeliers and silk.
But the house is not the only thing with a history.
Something ancient stirs in Eve’s blood—a power inherited from generations of women who survived by becoming something more than obedient. As predation tightens its grip, the servant they meant to consume becomes the reckoning they never saw coming.
Pearl Bound is a gothic historical horror novel steeped in female rage, class tension, queer desire, and the terrifying cost of autonomy.
Perfect for readers of dark horror such as Mexican Gothic, A Dowry of Blood, Dark Sisters and Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2025
About the author
Natalie G. Bergman
1 book25 followersNatalie Bergman is the author of Pearl Bound, a queer, female-led gothic novel that explores the tension between identity and conformity in a society bound by secrets and power. Set in Gilded Age New York, the story blends romance, history, and the supernatural to examine the price of self-truth.
The novel originated as a feature screenplay, which is currently being shopped by Christian Armogida at Nightshade Entertainment, before Bergman expanded it to capture the deeper psychological and emotional landscape of her characters.
An award-winning screenwriter, Bergman was recognized as a Coverfly/Launchpad TV Drama Winner for her World War II ensemble pilot Angels of War. Her other screen projects include Exposed, a 1930s noir drama set in the queer underworld of New York City, and sAys sImon, a contemporary techno-thriller exploring grief, family, and the dark seduction of artificial intelligence. Across genres, Bergman’s work is united by a fascination with power, belonging, and the complex choices women make to survive and define themselves.
Born in Sydney, Australia, to Holocaust survivors, Bergman is a dual citizen who divides her time between Los Angeles and New York City. She lives with her wife of forty years, is the proud mother of two adult daughters, and shares her home with two endlessly fluffy Persian cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 3, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the audiobook ARC!
I really enjoyed this gothic tale set in late 1800s New England. Eve and her mother Moire, who migrated from Ireland with her husband Sean, try to stay afloat working as housekeepers after Sean’s death. They take the opportunity to work at a fancy Greythorne estate of the Reynard family, but dark secrets linger behind the beautiful facade.
First of all, the gothic atmosphere was described so well, I was hooked from the opening scene on. I like how the author sets a scene and describes landscape, weather, and surroundings in general. Once Eve and Moire get to Greythorne, I could really picture the gloomy mansion with all that creepy taxidermy.
I also liked the characters, although some of them could have been fleshed out more, especially some of Eve‘s friends who appear later in the book.
There’s Eve, wanting more from life, planning to study and travel the world. Moire, wanting to keep her head down and be content with what they have. I was so curious about her motivations and I liked how she is so protective of Eve. I was intrigued by the relationship between Eve and Moire although I wish that would have been fleshed out more. Then there’s Saskia, a rich socialite who is super proud of having been to Europe, but has a really strong and feisty side to her as well.
I did have some issues with Eve‘s and Saskia‘s relationship, but those did make sense in the end, so that ended up not being a problem. I can’t explain further because of spoilers though 😂
I had some minor issues throughout the book, which I want to tread carefully around to avoid spoilers. Those issues could have been easily avoided with some more editing, so although they were noticeable to me, they didn’t end up making me enjoy the book less. One example: at one point, Eve has a pretty intense revelation and remembers something about her past, but the next day, she goes about her duties and it’s barely even mentioned. It felt so weird to me that she wouldn’t dwell on that thing more.
I will say that for the first half of the book, the horror and fantasy elements were on the lighter side. After the opening scenes, for some time there is very little of that, and at times, it felt more like a historical romance plot. Me being a horror gal, I almost thought this book wouldn’t be for me.
But dude, from the halfway point, the horror elements really kick into high gear and get quite intense and dark. The author didn’t shy away from some really disturbing scenes, so consider yourself warned! The antagonists in this story are really vile pieces of shit! So Eve has to really step up and fight for herself and her friends. For me personally, the horror elements were more than satisfying, and I absolutely loved the ending!
So this book could be for you if you like gothic vibes, carriage rides, ravens, witchcraft, magical awakening, eating the rich, women fighting back against fucking men and the oppressive power structure of the patriarchy, some sapphic vibes, women doing their own damn thing!! Yeah!
Regarding the format, I read the audiobook and really enjoyed the narration and pace. The narrator really nailed the different accents and voices.
I ended up really liking this book, the second half really nailed it for me. I will keep this author on my radar and am excited to see what she writes next.
I really enjoyed this gothic tale set in late 1800s New England. Eve and her mother Moire, who migrated from Ireland with her husband Sean, try to stay afloat working as housekeepers after Sean’s death. They take the opportunity to work at a fancy Greythorne estate of the Reynard family, but dark secrets linger behind the beautiful facade.
First of all, the gothic atmosphere was described so well, I was hooked from the opening scene on. I like how the author sets a scene and describes landscape, weather, and surroundings in general. Once Eve and Moire get to Greythorne, I could really picture the gloomy mansion with all that creepy taxidermy.
I also liked the characters, although some of them could have been fleshed out more, especially some of Eve‘s friends who appear later in the book.
There’s Eve, wanting more from life, planning to study and travel the world. Moire, wanting to keep her head down and be content with what they have. I was so curious about her motivations and I liked how she is so protective of Eve. I was intrigued by the relationship between Eve and Moire although I wish that would have been fleshed out more. Then there’s Saskia, a rich socialite who is super proud of having been to Europe, but has a really strong and feisty side to her as well.
I did have some issues with Eve‘s and Saskia‘s relationship, but those did make sense in the end, so that ended up not being a problem. I can’t explain further because of spoilers though 😂
I had some minor issues throughout the book, which I want to tread carefully around to avoid spoilers. Those issues could have been easily avoided with some more editing, so although they were noticeable to me, they didn’t end up making me enjoy the book less. One example: at one point, Eve has a pretty intense revelation and remembers something about her past, but the next day, she goes about her duties and it’s barely even mentioned. It felt so weird to me that she wouldn’t dwell on that thing more.
I will say that for the first half of the book, the horror and fantasy elements were on the lighter side. After the opening scenes, for some time there is very little of that, and at times, it felt more like a historical romance plot. Me being a horror gal, I almost thought this book wouldn’t be for me.
But dude, from the halfway point, the horror elements really kick into high gear and get quite intense and dark. The author didn’t shy away from some really disturbing scenes, so consider yourself warned! The antagonists in this story are really vile pieces of shit! So Eve has to really step up and fight for herself and her friends. For me personally, the horror elements were more than satisfying, and I absolutely loved the ending!
So this book could be for you if you like gothic vibes, carriage rides, ravens, witchcraft, magical awakening, eating the rich, women fighting back against fucking men and the oppressive power structure of the patriarchy, some sapphic vibes, women doing their own damn thing!! Yeah!
Regarding the format, I read the audiobook and really enjoyed the narration and pace. The narrator really nailed the different accents and voices.
I ended up really liking this book, the second half really nailed it for me. I will keep this author on my radar and am excited to see what she writes next.
March 10, 2026
received as an ARC from netgalley. 2.75 rounded up
this book was right between okay and good. the story was interesting, but super hard for me to get into. by the like 30% mark i was finally fully interested.
i liked a lot about the book, but also disliked a lot. i liked the development of saskia and eve’s situationship, i liked the feminine rage, and i liked eve as a character. i found myself having strong emotions to a lot of parts in the book (most notably anger towards the men and SASKIA fuck saskia me and all my homies hate saskia) so clearly i enjoyed it in a lot of ways. but some things bothered me, there were a decent amount of typos (which i suppose overall is fine for such a decent story, just bothered me in certain parts), some descriptions felt rushed while others felt drawn out, and god i hated the use of AI for the map in the beginning. i understand that for indie authors AI might offer some things, like art and editing, for cheaper but truly i do not care, i would rather have no map and a million typos than AI anywhere near the media i consume. the way i see it is: how am i supposed to trust that other parts of this book/the creation of the book is not altered with AI if the author chooses to use it for art/editing/book covers? i just don’t like that. it feels almost anti-author, anti-literature, anti-storytelling to use AI in the book writing process.
i would recommend this book to the right person but overall it gets like a sideways thumbs up from me.
this book was right between okay and good. the story was interesting, but super hard for me to get into. by the like 30% mark i was finally fully interested.
i liked a lot about the book, but also disliked a lot. i liked the development of saskia and eve’s situationship, i liked the feminine rage, and i liked eve as a character. i found myself having strong emotions to a lot of parts in the book (most notably anger towards the men and SASKIA fuck saskia me and all my homies hate saskia) so clearly i enjoyed it in a lot of ways. but some things bothered me, there were a decent amount of typos (which i suppose overall is fine for such a decent story, just bothered me in certain parts), some descriptions felt rushed while others felt drawn out, and god i hated the use of AI for the map in the beginning. i understand that for indie authors AI might offer some things, like art and editing, for cheaper but truly i do not care, i would rather have no map and a million typos than AI anywhere near the media i consume. the way i see it is: how am i supposed to trust that other parts of this book/the creation of the book is not altered with AI if the author chooses to use it for art/editing/book covers? i just don’t like that. it feels almost anti-author, anti-literature, anti-storytelling to use AI in the book writing process.
i would recommend this book to the right person but overall it gets like a sideways thumbs up from me.
January 21, 2026
An excellent debut! This had everything I love: gothic atmosphere, sapphic tension, female rage, and of course ravens. Told through dual POVs: We follow Eve, a servant newly hired at Greythorne Manor. She is immediately drawn to Saskia, the daughter of the powerful Rennard family. What begins as awe at the wealth and opulence quickly curdles into unease as Eve realizes the family is hiding something far darker. As she fights to survive the manor’s secrets, her forbidden love for Saskia is pushed to its breaking point.
Love, ambition, and survival collide, leaving everything precarious and charged. Dark, moody, and simmering with unrest, this story leans fully into gothic tragedy and feminine fury.
Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for this arc
Love, ambition, and survival collide, leaving everything precarious and charged. Dark, moody, and simmering with unrest, this story leans fully into gothic tragedy and feminine fury.
Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for this arc
February 17, 2026
This is a Gothic tale of magic, love and paranormal evil. I fell in love with Eve's story. I got sucked in from page 1 . The erriness of this book was superb. The author has such a way of writing that just makes the story come to life. Don't miss the incredible Gothic story
February 17, 2026
Pearl Bound is a haunting, sapphic gothic horror that leans fully into atmosphere, obsession, and the sharp edge where love and terror meet.
Eve arrives already carrying grief and unease, but the crumbling coastal estate she finds herself in seems determined to hollow her out completely. The house is damp with secrets — salt-stung air, locked doors, pearls threaded through its history like a curse. Bergman’s setting feels alive, almost sentient, pressing in on Eve from all sides.
And then there’s Rennard.
Rennard is not a safe harbor — she’s the storm. Magnetic, unreadable, and unsettlingly intimate, she moves through the shadows of the manor like she belongs to them. The tension between her and Eve is immediate but restrained, built on lingering glances and conversations that feel like confessions wrapped in threats. Their attraction simmers beneath layers of mistrust and buried truths.
What makes this novel stand out is how inseparable the romance and horror are. The sapphic longing isn’t decorative — it’s central. Desire becomes dangerous. Touch becomes transformation. The body horror elements, particularly the imagery surrounding pearls and what they represent, are visceral without being gratuitous. There’s a constant sense that love here may require sacrifice — of innocence, of safety, maybe even of humanity.
Eve’s arc is especially compelling. She begins uncertain, reactive, caught in currents she doesn’t fully understand. By the final act, she is making choices — terrifying, powerful ones — that reshape both her fate and Rennard’s. Their relationship feels raw and feral by the end, forged in blood and truth rather than fantasy.
Moody, unsettling, and achingly romantic, Pearl Bound is perfect for readers who crave gothic settings, morally ambiguous sapphic relationships, and horror that lingers long after the last page.
Eve arrives already carrying grief and unease, but the crumbling coastal estate she finds herself in seems determined to hollow her out completely. The house is damp with secrets — salt-stung air, locked doors, pearls threaded through its history like a curse. Bergman’s setting feels alive, almost sentient, pressing in on Eve from all sides.
And then there’s Rennard.
Rennard is not a safe harbor — she’s the storm. Magnetic, unreadable, and unsettlingly intimate, she moves through the shadows of the manor like she belongs to them. The tension between her and Eve is immediate but restrained, built on lingering glances and conversations that feel like confessions wrapped in threats. Their attraction simmers beneath layers of mistrust and buried truths.
What makes this novel stand out is how inseparable the romance and horror are. The sapphic longing isn’t decorative — it’s central. Desire becomes dangerous. Touch becomes transformation. The body horror elements, particularly the imagery surrounding pearls and what they represent, are visceral without being gratuitous. There’s a constant sense that love here may require sacrifice — of innocence, of safety, maybe even of humanity.
Eve’s arc is especially compelling. She begins uncertain, reactive, caught in currents she doesn’t fully understand. By the final act, she is making choices — terrifying, powerful ones — that reshape both her fate and Rennard’s. Their relationship feels raw and feral by the end, forged in blood and truth rather than fantasy.
Moody, unsettling, and achingly romantic, Pearl Bound is perfect for readers who crave gothic settings, morally ambiguous sapphic relationships, and horror that lingers long after the last page.
June 13, 2026
Pearl Bound is an enchanting historical horror novel. If you like dark sapphic books with magical awakenings and stories that take on oppressive power structures, this may be up your alley.
I think my favorite thing about this book is the immersive atmosphere. The story takes place primarily in the later part of the 19th century, and Bergman does a wonderful job encapsulating the time period. The manor where most of the story takes place is simultaneously decadent and foreboding, creating a great Gothic atmosphere.
The first half is a bit of a slow burn, which I personally didn't mind, but once we hit the midpoint, things really take off. The twist makes perfect sense in retrospect, but somehow I did not see it coming at all.
I will caution that the latter part of the book does go to some pretty dark places, and there was one scene that really got to me. It wasn't gratuitous; nothing is shown on the page. But the implications messed with me, I think partly because given our current political climate, the premise doesn't actually feel far-fetched. People with an immense amount of power too often use that power for evil. I think Bergman does a great job showing that, but it can make for a difficult read at times.
If you enjoy witchy horror books that challenge oppressive power structures, you may enjoy this story.
I think my favorite thing about this book is the immersive atmosphere. The story takes place primarily in the later part of the 19th century, and Bergman does a wonderful job encapsulating the time period. The manor where most of the story takes place is simultaneously decadent and foreboding, creating a great Gothic atmosphere.
The first half is a bit of a slow burn, which I personally didn't mind, but once we hit the midpoint, things really take off. The twist makes perfect sense in retrospect, but somehow I did not see it coming at all.
I will caution that the latter part of the book does go to some pretty dark places, and there was one scene that really got to me. It wasn't gratuitous; nothing is shown on the page. But the implications messed with me, I think partly because given our current political climate, the premise doesn't actually feel far-fetched. People with an immense amount of power too often use that power for evil. I think Bergman does a great job showing that, but it can make for a difficult read at times.
If you enjoy witchy horror books that challenge oppressive power structures, you may enjoy this story.
February 2, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free copy of Pearl Bound. As a longtime fan of Gothic horror, I was eager to dive into this novel, and it did not disappoint. The story opens with real momentum and steadily builds toward a powerful midpoint climax. I genuinely couldn’t put it down after the major twist.
The characters are well crafted and multi dimensional, adding depth and emotional weight. One of the elements that resonated most with me was the novel’s exploration of wealth and power, and how easily privilege can shield people from consequences. That theme felt especially timely and reminded me of recent high profile scandals in the news. This is a fantastic debut, and I’m very much looking forward to reading more from this author.
The characters are well crafted and multi dimensional, adding depth and emotional weight. One of the elements that resonated most with me was the novel’s exploration of wealth and power, and how easily privilege can shield people from consequences. That theme felt especially timely and reminded me of recent high profile scandals in the news. This is a fantastic debut, and I’m very much looking forward to reading more from this author.
June 9, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC!
This had a bit of a slow start -- to be fair, it would be difficult to follow up the opening tragic scene of the consequences of child Eve's unrestrained power, which was a fantastic opening. Once it got going, though, it was an intriguing historical sapphic mystery that shifted into horror around the halfway point. I really appreciated how villainous Bergman allowed the antagonist to be once their true intentions were revealed. I always love when rich folks get their comeuppance!
This had a bit of a slow start -- to be fair, it would be difficult to follow up the opening tragic scene of the consequences of child Eve's unrestrained power, which was a fantastic opening. Once it got going, though, it was an intriguing historical sapphic mystery that shifted into horror around the halfway point. I really appreciated how villainous Bergman allowed the antagonist to be once their true intentions were revealed. I always love when rich folks get their comeuppance!
December 17, 2025
Hold on you are about to embark on a fast, suspenseful, empowering and mystical ride. Pearl Bound is a shot of energy introducing you to Eve Grant and a world beyond. The writing is so full of wonderful and clear detail you can not help but get swept away in the character and story development. Now a true fan of Eve’s, I can not wait to see where continued adventures will take her and her ravens!
January 26, 2026
Not too spoily spoilers…
I enjoyed the book’s American gothic aesthetic mixed with Celtic magic and feminism. The best part was witnessing Eve come into her power, and the most disappointing was Saskia’s demise, for whom I had hope until the bitter end. Peggy impressed me with her bravery and loyalty, and I appreciated Isaiah’s nuances. The descriptions of Eve’s magic pulled me in and reminded me of reading the Mysts of Avalon when I was a teenager.
I do think it would have benefited from a bit more copy editing. There were times when I felt like I was being spoon fed and others when I was left a little bewildered. The sex scenes could have been more fleshed out (pun intended), and I was left wishing for more development with the mother/daughter relationship. Just a little bit more foreshadowing in the first half of the book also would have led to a more cohesive story.
Overall, if you like gothic horror mixed with magic and same-gender romance, you’ll enjoy the ride of Pearl Bound.
I enjoyed the book’s American gothic aesthetic mixed with Celtic magic and feminism. The best part was witnessing Eve come into her power, and the most disappointing was Saskia’s demise, for whom I had hope until the bitter end. Peggy impressed me with her bravery and loyalty, and I appreciated Isaiah’s nuances. The descriptions of Eve’s magic pulled me in and reminded me of reading the Mysts of Avalon when I was a teenager.
I do think it would have benefited from a bit more copy editing. There were times when I felt like I was being spoon fed and others when I was left a little bewildered. The sex scenes could have been more fleshed out (pun intended), and I was left wishing for more development with the mother/daughter relationship. Just a little bit more foreshadowing in the first half of the book also would have led to a more cohesive story.
Overall, if you like gothic horror mixed with magic and same-gender romance, you’ll enjoy the ride of Pearl Bound.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2026
I love a book about feminism, even when it isn’t historically likely. This is a book of female power we all need right now.
Thank you to NetGalley and Natalie G. Bergman for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Natalie G. Bergman for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 2026
DNF at 47%
Although the narrator did an amazing job,
This was definitely more of a queer forbidden love story than horror.
Thank you to netgalley for the audio in exchange for my honest review
Although the narrator did an amazing job,
This was definitely more of a queer forbidden love story than horror.
Thank you to netgalley for the audio in exchange for my honest review
Read
December 4, 2025This isn’t my usual preferred genre, but I pretty much read it in one sitting. Definitely check this out if you’re a fan of dark and twisty!
January 16, 2026
This was a thrilling page-turner of a novel! Beautiful writing, engaging characters, and an imaginative and original plot (with surprising twists and turns) will keep you captivated the whole way through. I highly recommend!
October 31, 2025
As someone who generally shies away from "horror" I loved the twists and turns of this gripping story. The characters are compelling and I can't wait for book two!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
From the first sentence, the vibes were absolutely vibing. The book starts in an unsettling way, and that feeling follows you throughout, creating a dark and gothic story that keeps you on the tips of your toes.
The relationships between different women throughout the book are incredibly interesting. Whether it's mother and daughter, aunt and niece, sisters, or lady and servant, there are so many interesting dynamics that both join each female character to the others while also setting her apart.
The relationship between Eve and Saskia is particularly interesting as it goes through so many iterations and gives greater insight into each of the characters as they develop - especially as both women have chapters in their POV.
I really enjoyed the magic and how it essentially became a pot that was going to boil over at any moment. Throughout the book, there are elements of magic, but you're constantly waiting for it to explode, which adds to the suspense in a really beautiful way.
The overall reveal of what was happening at the manor, I have to admit, I didn't see coming. There are so many clues, but they could point to so many different things, so I was genuinely shocked at what was happening. It was also a great comment on class differences that it could be allowed to happen and that servants involved knew nothing would happen to the rich people taking part.
Just as with the rest of the book, the end is also unsettling and has left things open for a potential sequel, although I also love that something has been left unsolved in a super creepy way.
From the first sentence, the vibes were absolutely vibing. The book starts in an unsettling way, and that feeling follows you throughout, creating a dark and gothic story that keeps you on the tips of your toes.
The relationships between different women throughout the book are incredibly interesting. Whether it's mother and daughter, aunt and niece, sisters, or lady and servant, there are so many interesting dynamics that both join each female character to the others while also setting her apart.
The relationship between Eve and Saskia is particularly interesting as it goes through so many iterations and gives greater insight into each of the characters as they develop - especially as both women have chapters in their POV.
I really enjoyed the magic and how it essentially became a pot that was going to boil over at any moment. Throughout the book, there are elements of magic, but you're constantly waiting for it to explode, which adds to the suspense in a really beautiful way.
The overall reveal of what was happening at the manor, I have to admit, I didn't see coming. There are so many clues, but they could point to so many different things, so I was genuinely shocked at what was happening. It was also a great comment on class differences that it could be allowed to happen and that servants involved knew nothing would happen to the rich people taking part.
Just as with the rest of the book, the end is also unsettling and has left things open for a potential sequel, although I also love that something has been left unsolved in a super creepy way.
March 16, 2026
4 ⭐️
First of all, thank you very much to Natalie G. Bergman, Victory Editing and NetGalley for giving me the access to the arc. All the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Whoa...That’s exactly how I felt after finishing this book! I mean such a perfect way to write a gothic horror story that embraces historical vibes! The dark atmosphere associated with the tension marks that embraces the full story created the most perfect scenario to promote women empowerment, to show how strong and capable women can be.
I liked Eve, the fmc, since page one. Her tragic history and the way she always thinks that things can get better, the way she keeps trying, not allowing her mother to change the way she envisions life and how she reacts to the adversities it’s mesmerizing.
I adored the author’s writing, her rich details and descriptions crafted the perfect environment for the final story plot, which absolutely surprised me and definitely higher my rating for the book itself. Liked the way that all the characters matter for the story and all of them were different, which made me think about diversity and the way people can be or act according to their life and personal interests.
Highly recommend giving the book a go, because it’s well written and the dark gothic horror ambience is so rich and vivid…at some point the reader might feel “inside the book”. I had a great time 🖤
First of all, thank you very much to Natalie G. Bergman, Victory Editing and NetGalley for giving me the access to the arc. All the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Whoa...That’s exactly how I felt after finishing this book! I mean such a perfect way to write a gothic horror story that embraces historical vibes! The dark atmosphere associated with the tension marks that embraces the full story created the most perfect scenario to promote women empowerment, to show how strong and capable women can be.
I liked Eve, the fmc, since page one. Her tragic history and the way she always thinks that things can get better, the way she keeps trying, not allowing her mother to change the way she envisions life and how she reacts to the adversities it’s mesmerizing.
I adored the author’s writing, her rich details and descriptions crafted the perfect environment for the final story plot, which absolutely surprised me and definitely higher my rating for the book itself. Liked the way that all the characters matter for the story and all of them were different, which made me think about diversity and the way people can be or act according to their life and personal interests.
Highly recommend giving the book a go, because it’s well written and the dark gothic horror ambience is so rich and vivid…at some point the reader might feel “inside the book”. I had a great time 🖤
April 10, 2026
Better than average! There should be half stars.
To start with, not my persuasion, and I have to review through adjusted thinking. That said, this is a queer fantasy, horror, historical, feminist power fantasy. Really, that's a few more than jumbled. It starts as a historical fiction and lacks a certain dimension of exposition and word use. Bergman surprises me that she aptly discusses hunting from the perspective of a hunter and the tools of the trade.
The story takes graphic turns to fulfill the requirements of being a YA book. Rats, that's another type of book this is.
A second book starts about halfway in, and it's clear that there are no men in the story who are anything but evil and unholy. Our heroine takes three bullet wounds and unbelievably charges ahead through the power fantasy to kill all but one of the men in this half.
The author builds an ending that is satisfying, and we can call it a happy ending. Her use of foreshadowing and structure in the narrative is well thought out and lifts the piece. It is not at all preachy. There is a cross-section of religion but a heavier than expected dose of paganism, which is no criticism.
Being unbelievable in the physical resilience of the heroine and the totally evil male characters is a limitation. On the flipside, the sense of oppression of the early poor and emigrants is felt.
It truly is worth a read.
To start with, not my persuasion, and I have to review through adjusted thinking. That said, this is a queer fantasy, horror, historical, feminist power fantasy. Really, that's a few more than jumbled. It starts as a historical fiction and lacks a certain dimension of exposition and word use. Bergman surprises me that she aptly discusses hunting from the perspective of a hunter and the tools of the trade.
The story takes graphic turns to fulfill the requirements of being a YA book. Rats, that's another type of book this is.
A second book starts about halfway in, and it's clear that there are no men in the story who are anything but evil and unholy. Our heroine takes three bullet wounds and unbelievably charges ahead through the power fantasy to kill all but one of the men in this half.
The author builds an ending that is satisfying, and we can call it a happy ending. Her use of foreshadowing and structure in the narrative is well thought out and lifts the piece. It is not at all preachy. There is a cross-section of religion but a heavier than expected dose of paganism, which is no criticism.
Being unbelievable in the physical resilience of the heroine and the totally evil male characters is a limitation. On the flipside, the sense of oppression of the early poor and emigrants is felt.
It truly is worth a read.
July 2, 2026
5 🌟 stars for Pearl Bound!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Victory Editing for this Audio ARC!
Where to even begin with this book?? I went into this story fairly blind. The cover and name drew me in, I stayed for the queerness and horror.
Set in late 1800’s New York, Pearl Bound focuses on the life of Eve Kelly, an Irish immigrant with powers granted to her by The Morrígan, although she doesn’t know it yet. Due to a tragic accident caused by Eve as a child that killed her father, Eve’s mother has her powers bound in an attempt at protecting her. Ultimately, her mother shields and protects Eve from everything instead of preparing her to use her power.
Things start to go a little awry when Eve and her mother get jobs in the household of the Rennard’s at Greythrone. Eve quickly falls into a forbidden tryst with Saskia Rennard, the daughter. As their attachment grows stronger, things take a turn for the worst with the men in the family invite friends up to Greythrone for their annual Ambrose Hunt. Eve accidentally witnesses the true nature of these men’s and when she goes to warn the other women working in the house, chaos ensues, and Eve is forced to make unthinkable choices to keep herself and her friends alive.
This book deals with feminine rage, finding yourself, power imbalances, sapphic longing and lust, with a big dash of Irish folklore. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Victory Editing for this Audio ARC!
Where to even begin with this book?? I went into this story fairly blind. The cover and name drew me in, I stayed for the queerness and horror.
Set in late 1800’s New York, Pearl Bound focuses on the life of Eve Kelly, an Irish immigrant with powers granted to her by The Morrígan, although she doesn’t know it yet. Due to a tragic accident caused by Eve as a child that killed her father, Eve’s mother has her powers bound in an attempt at protecting her. Ultimately, her mother shields and protects Eve from everything instead of preparing her to use her power.
Things start to go a little awry when Eve and her mother get jobs in the household of the Rennard’s at Greythrone. Eve quickly falls into a forbidden tryst with Saskia Rennard, the daughter. As their attachment grows stronger, things take a turn for the worst with the men in the family invite friends up to Greythrone for their annual Ambrose Hunt. Eve accidentally witnesses the true nature of these men’s and when she goes to warn the other women working in the house, chaos ensues, and Eve is forced to make unthinkable choices to keep herself and her friends alive.
This book deals with feminine rage, finding yourself, power imbalances, sapphic longing and lust, with a big dash of Irish folklore. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone!
December 2, 2025
In this supernatural, ‘Guided Age’ page-turner, Pearl Bound comes alive. From the opening chapter, I was captivated and enthralled… Seriously, I couldn’t put it down as I was filled with the emotional journey of the scenes. The clever plot charges ahead, through the voices of two women - Eve (a servant and born to otherworldly powers) and Saskia (daughter of the ultra-rich father who has raised her with extreme privilege and wealth). The twists of the story line were unexpected and revelatory. As the household encounters the unfolding terror, Eve and the other servants respond with daring, courage and, in Eve’s case, by unleashing her supernatural connection for their protection. This is a war between the authentic power of those who serve versus the men who hold the power over others, of gender, brazen entitlement of wealth.. The power of discernment unravels the difference between manipulation and love. It is a story both worth reading and gifting a friend. Eve is an empowered female role model who finds her center and her purpose. I look forward, hopfully, for the next novels by Natalie Bergman.
December 3, 2025
Pearl Bound is a deeply atmospheric and haunting story that pulls you into its world from the very first pages. The author creates an unforgettable blend of gothic tension, forbidden desire, and the heavy silence of family secrets. Eve is a powerful and compelling protagonist, and following her journey through the glittering yet sinister halls of Greythorne is both captivating and unsettling.
The story masterfully mixes historical atmosphere with slow building dread. The secrets of the Rennard family unfold in a way that keeps you fully engaged, and the exploration of fear, desire, and female resilience gives the book real emotional force. The sapphic elements add a beautiful but dangerous layer to the narrative, making every moment between the characters feel charged and meaningful.
If you love gothic horror filled with mystery, longing, and the struggle for freedom, this book is an unforgettable read. It captures the spirit of classic gothic tales while offering something fresh, bold, and emotionally powerful.
The story masterfully mixes historical atmosphere with slow building dread. The secrets of the Rennard family unfold in a way that keeps you fully engaged, and the exploration of fear, desire, and female resilience gives the book real emotional force. The sapphic elements add a beautiful but dangerous layer to the narrative, making every moment between the characters feel charged and meaningful.
If you love gothic horror filled with mystery, longing, and the struggle for freedom, this book is an unforgettable read. It captures the spirit of classic gothic tales while offering something fresh, bold, and emotionally powerful.
March 23, 2026
This gothic horror story is set in New York during the early 1900’s known as the Gilded Age. The plot unravels through two viewpoints—from Eve, an Irish servant and Saskia, the daughter of a wealthy and powerful family. Both young women are trapped by the norms of their era. Both become entrapped by the ominous dark secrets swirling at Greythorne Manor.
What worked for me: The cover is lovely. The opening scenes are compelling as the author skillfully pulls the reader into the era, seamlessly weaving in strands of the supernatural and horror. The writing style is strong, and the story’s pacing is perfect—as in addictive. I read late into the night.
What didn’t work for me: I could have used fewer and less steamy scenes—or none, at all. What might be erotic for one person can be a total turn off for another. Think, The French Lieutenant's Woman by John Fowles, where less is more.
Still this book is worthy of 5 stars because the author is a master storyteller.
Reader alert: The novel contains shades of horror, the supernatural, and a gothic lesbian romance.
What worked for me: The cover is lovely. The opening scenes are compelling as the author skillfully pulls the reader into the era, seamlessly weaving in strands of the supernatural and horror. The writing style is strong, and the story’s pacing is perfect—as in addictive. I read late into the night.
What didn’t work for me: I could have used fewer and less steamy scenes—or none, at all. What might be erotic for one person can be a total turn off for another. Think, The French Lieutenant's Woman by John Fowles, where less is more.
Still this book is worthy of 5 stars because the author is a master storyteller.
Reader alert: The novel contains shades of horror, the supernatural, and a gothic lesbian romance.
March 24, 2026
There’s something really gripping about the atmosphere in this story. From the beginning, it pulls you into this dark, uneasy world where nothing feels quite right, even when everything looks beautiful on the surface.
I really liked Eve as a character. There’s a quiet strength to her that builds as the story goes on, and watching that shift kept me invested. The tension in the house and everything surrounding it adds to that feeling that something bigger is happening beneath it all.
The gothic tone is one of the strongest parts of the book. It leans into that slow, unsettling build instead of rushing things, which worked for me. There’s a constant sense of unease that carries through the story.
That said, it did take me a little time to fully get into it. Once it picks up, though, it becomes much harder to put down and the story really starts to come together.
Overall, it’s a dark, moody read with strong atmosphere and an interesting mix of themes. Not perfect, but definitely engaging and memorable.
I really liked Eve as a character. There’s a quiet strength to her that builds as the story goes on, and watching that shift kept me invested. The tension in the house and everything surrounding it adds to that feeling that something bigger is happening beneath it all.
The gothic tone is one of the strongest parts of the book. It leans into that slow, unsettling build instead of rushing things, which worked for me. There’s a constant sense of unease that carries through the story.
That said, it did take me a little time to fully get into it. Once it picks up, though, it becomes much harder to put down and the story really starts to come together.
Overall, it’s a dark, moody read with strong atmosphere and an interesting mix of themes. Not perfect, but definitely engaging and memorable.
April 22, 2026
Pearl Bound is one of those gripping, well written books that draws you in from the first page. The story is has fantastical elements of magic and hidden powers that are well written and easy to understand. Bergman's writing style is descriptive while not being burdensome, instead you are presented to a world so well described in such a clear easy manner that you simply fall into the world, the lives, the plot and feel the deep emotions that are twisted into the words and story line. I loved the mystery, but loved more the character development and explorations of themes such as power and class, wealth and non-wealth, love and manipulation.
This is one of those unassuming books that really captures you from the first page. I certainly hope to see much more of Bergman's writing and specifically more of this world and its beautifully written characters!
This is one of those unassuming books that really captures you from the first page. I certainly hope to see much more of Bergman's writing and specifically more of this world and its beautifully written characters!
April 3, 2026
Really enjoyed this story, with strong female characters, the Irish immigrant maid Eve Kelly and the rich girl Saskia Rennard. When Eve and her mother get jobs working in her family's household, the story moves between the two characters during each chapter so things are told from both their perspectives, and since both of them have vastly different backgrounds, they have very different tastes and outlooks on life. However, there is one thing that they both have in common, they are both woman living in a patriarchal world, as even though Saskia lives a life of luxury she is still expected to eventually find a husband and have children. But then there's an unexpected twist...
April 10, 2026
Thank you Netgalley and Rose and Pearl Productions for the ARC of this audiobook.
The beginning was good and kept me hooked, but once more characters were introduced, I thought it was a little confusing and I kept getting characters mixed up.
I really didn't like Saskia. Like at all. And the men.... disgusting creatures, all of them
I really wish the crows/Morrigan/supernatural part was a much bigger part of the book and was less about Saskia's rich life. The book really started to become interesting at about 70% once the magic and witchcraft started happening
Otherwise, this debut was okay!
The beginning was good and kept me hooked, but once more characters were introduced, I thought it was a little confusing and I kept getting characters mixed up.
I really didn't like Saskia. Like at all. And the men.... disgusting creatures, all of them
I really wish the crows/Morrigan/supernatural part was a much bigger part of the book and was less about Saskia's rich life. The book really started to become interesting at about 70% once the magic and witchcraft started happening
Otherwise, this debut was okay!
March 8, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC for an honest review.
Overall, I liked it due to the gothic atmospheric and historical themes. At first, I thought the story was heading into a very cliched direction, but it did not and went towards female rage which was surprising and welcomed. I am glad it did not play into specific tropes and had a female MC who was independent. I felt the story was disjointed somewhat and felt the flow was slightly off. I seem to be in the minority here as most people loved it.
Overall, I liked it due to the gothic atmospheric and historical themes. At first, I thought the story was heading into a very cliched direction, but it did not and went towards female rage which was surprising and welcomed. I am glad it did not play into specific tropes and had a female MC who was independent. I felt the story was disjointed somewhat and felt the flow was slightly off. I seem to be in the minority here as most people loved it.
December 1, 2025
A riveting historical horror that is as frightening as it is lovely! Pearl Bound is my favorite kind of novel -- one that uses horror and a bold feminist twist to expose the ugly underbelly of the past. Full of vivid characters and a central sapphic relationship that will twist your heart in every possible direction, this book is a must for any reader of historical romance, especially if you enjoy the dark side of history and mythology. Highly recommend!
February 17, 2026
The Highlights:
Cinematic Atmosphere: Bergman’s background as a screenwriter shines through in the eerie, lush descriptions of the Rennard family’s estate.
Electric Chemistry: The forbidden connection between Eve and the rebellious heiress Saskia is intense and deeply compelling.
The Caveat:
The pacing slows significantly in the middle as the social drama takes over the horror. Some secondary characters also lack the depth found in the two protagonists.
Cinematic Atmosphere: Bergman’s background as a screenwriter shines through in the eerie, lush descriptions of the Rennard family’s estate.
Electric Chemistry: The forbidden connection between Eve and the rebellious heiress Saskia is intense and deeply compelling.
The Caveat:
The pacing slows significantly in the middle as the social drama takes over the horror. Some secondary characters also lack the depth found in the two protagonists.
June 23, 2026
Great opening scene - had me hooked from the start. I thought this was a good story and I liked Eve, and of course her takedown of the rich and powerful. I would have liked a little more depth in some of the characters, and in her relationship with her Mom and with Saskia. Also some background lore explaining Morrigan and the connection to Eve's powers.
I think it would make a really good screenplay, but the novel just fell short for me. I hope it's made into a movie.
I think it would make a really good screenplay, but the novel just fell short for me. I hope it's made into a movie.
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