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Haunted Ground
When American Lexi Maxwell buys a long-abandoned mansion in a quaint English village, she sees it as a chance to start fresh and bring her dream of running a manor-house hotel to life. But her idyllic plans are soon overshadowed by eerie occurrences—a heartbroken ghost appears each night, kneeling beside a centuries-old ruin, and villagers whisper about Lexi’s striking resemblance to a woman who died under mysterious circumstances more than two decades ago.
As Lexi digs deeper into the history of the ruin and the secrets buried within the manor, she uncovers unexpected connections to her own past—revelations that shake her to the core and threaten everything she holds dear. Caught in a tangle of lies, loss, and long-forgotten betrayals, Lexi is drawn into a chilling mystery, and her only ally is a man haunted by his own past.
As Lexi digs deeper into the history of the ruin and the secrets buried within the manor, she uncovers unexpected connections to her own past—revelations that shake her to the core and threaten everything she holds dear. Caught in a tangle of lies, loss, and long-forgotten betrayals, Lexi is drawn into a chilling mystery, and her only ally is a man haunted by his own past.
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First published September 2, 2014
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About the author
Irina Shapiro
103 books1,183 followersTo write a novel was a dream of mine since I was a child. Life, my practical nature, and self-doubt got in the way, so it was decades later that an opportunity to write finally presented itself. I honestly didn't think I had what it takes to write a full-length novel, but once I faced the blank screen and my fingers touched the keyboard, everything disappeared except my characters and their surroundings, and suddenly I knew that this was what I was born to do.
Since then, I've written many books and have enjoyed some positive reviews, but sometimes, when I stop to reflect, I'm still amazed that I'm living my dream.
Follow me on BookBub for discount deals and new release alerts.
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Since then, I've written many books and have enjoyed some positive reviews, but sometimes, when I stop to reflect, I'm still amazed that I'm living my dream.
Follow me on BookBub for discount deals and new release alerts.
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/irina...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
October 19, 2020
I have to admit that I am very much in the minority here with my opinion, and I could see that the author does have a talent, but in reaching the end of this story I could only give it 2 stars.
I was excited when I saw this book and read the description. Then I did what I usually do, check the other reviews and other books that the author had written--which made me even more excited. The reviews were great and the other books she has written were very much the type of stories I love to read. I thought I had found a new author to love that had written plenty of other books for me to get into.
I will just list the reasons why this story only turned out to be a 2 star story.
1. This is just me but when I read a story about someone who moves into new house I really want to read descriptions of the house. I want to see it. I want to hear about what is being done to make it homier.
2. I found that the main character had some really strange reactions to certain things that she was going through. I cannot explain more as they might be spoilers, but a number of times her reactions really brought me out of the story.
3. I love many pov's but I felt that the author was weak in her male pov's. It is sort of hard to explain--I guess that the only thing that I could say is that if the mans name hadn't been included I would have never know that it was a male pov.
4. I also like reading about different times. In reading the time of 1650 I never could really see it. It is more than the language. The language sounding modern I can forgive (as I realize that an author might be trying to have something easier for us to read), but I still could not feel the time here even though there was a number of "facts", which get into another thing that I didn't like.
5. There were a lot of facts" thrown in without explanation or drawn upon. They were more or less just thrown out in the story and left there.
6. This point was what changed what was more or less 3 star book to a 2 star book for me. I might be wrong but I read this story as a sort of gothic suspence (mystery). There were too many bad things happening. It seemed like every cliche about a gothic suspence story was thrown in (with the kitchen sink). It got to the point were when something else happened all I could think was "really?"
I do not want you to think that I think that the author was terrible. In fact I might try something else from her to see if it was just this story. I guess what I want to say is that I think that this really needed to be edited and tightened up. I could have loved this story...
I was excited when I saw this book and read the description. Then I did what I usually do, check the other reviews and other books that the author had written--which made me even more excited. The reviews were great and the other books she has written were very much the type of stories I love to read. I thought I had found a new author to love that had written plenty of other books for me to get into.
I will just list the reasons why this story only turned out to be a 2 star story.
1. This is just me but when I read a story about someone who moves into new house I really want to read descriptions of the house. I want to see it. I want to hear about what is being done to make it homier.
2. I found that the main character had some really strange reactions to certain things that she was going through. I cannot explain more as they might be spoilers, but a number of times her reactions really brought me out of the story.
3. I love many pov's but I felt that the author was weak in her male pov's. It is sort of hard to explain--I guess that the only thing that I could say is that if the mans name hadn't been included I would have never know that it was a male pov.
4. I also like reading about different times. In reading the time of 1650 I never could really see it. It is more than the language. The language sounding modern I can forgive (as I realize that an author might be trying to have something easier for us to read), but I still could not feel the time here even though there was a number of "facts", which get into another thing that I didn't like.
5. There were a lot of facts" thrown in without explanation or drawn upon. They were more or less just thrown out in the story and left there.
6. This point was what changed what was more or less 3 star book to a 2 star book for me. I might be wrong but I read this story as a sort of gothic suspence (mystery). There were too many bad things happening. It seemed like every cliche about a gothic suspence story was thrown in (with the kitchen sink). It got to the point were when something else happened all I could think was "really?"
I do not want you to think that I think that the author was terrible. In fact I might try something else from her to see if it was just this story. I guess what I want to say is that I think that this really needed to be edited and tightened up. I could have loved this story...
November 21, 2015
This is an engaging book. The ending is a big twist of fate, thus making this book so readable. A real page turner. A must for romantic history buffs. Set in the 1600s during Cromwells reign of terror, but alternating to a story set in recent times.
October 11, 2020
England, 1650. Irina Shapiro’s Haunted Ground is a story that though set in England takes place in two separate time periods - 1650 when Cromwell was fighting the Catholics and then present day England when Lexi Maxwell, an American, follows a dream and buys a “derelict mansion in a quaint English village.” The village is in Lincolnshire, and as Lexi views the stone of the house while glancing at the second floor, she experiences a “sudden sense of déjà vu,” But Lexi knew that this house is the one it has taken her over four months to locate. This is it! The one that Lexi wants to change into an 1800s house-hotel. The property even had ruins of another house on it. Lexi eventually wandered upstairs and into a bedroom where she looked out the window. She is amazed as she sees a man walk out of the ruins where a door should have been. He appears to be wearing a uniform. Lexi watches as he slowly approaches an old tree, kneels, and clasps his hands in prayer. It seems rather odd, but Lexi returns to looking at the bedroom and its beautiful furniture. She cannot wait to start her dream hotel. The author weaves the two time periods together very well. The reader is in for a jolt as the author’s words explain what takes place as the time periods are woven together. Very enjoyable! 4 stars.
December 4, 2019
Without question, the worst book that I have ever read. I rarely decide not to finish a book but this one almost made the cut. I cannot believe this author has written several book and that people have given this work five stars. I mean, how can one overlook the abysmal writing and story issues? We will all have different opinions on the story, but the fundamental errors are beyond question.
There are essentially two stories in this book told separately. However, it doesn’t take a psychic to realize they are converging towards one another from the very start. This author fails to even keep track of her own stories and the actions of the characters, sometimes paragraph to paragraph. The timeline errors are numerous and just inexcusable. Who edited this thing? I could list numerous examples.
Beyond the timeline issues it cannot go without mention how a millennial from New York moves to England and within two weeks is speaking and dreaming a mix of American and Queens English. But let’s not stop there; she also uses terminology from the medieval period. It is as if the author has forgotten if she is working on the present day story or the 17th century story. She makes the same errors in reverse where the language in the 17th century story would be more fitting with the millennial in the present day.
I also am not sure why author’s feel it necessary to go into extreme detail about sexual aspects. I mean I heard cockstands enough to make me still cringe. This however was right in line with the author's style of using big words she clearly found in a thesaurus.it distracts from the story and just ruins continuity. And there is nothing more exciting to read about than a 17th century wife beater then going to work on his cockstand.
Finally, Ch 38. There is an intense and dramatic scene which had the author’s point been to shine a light of the horrific nature of this crime, I would give her kudos for this segment. However, it is quickly seen that she again could not resist giving the most explicit view when dealing with any topic sexual in nature. This was when I got angry. Because in the very next chapter, within hours of the event, the millennial just basically brushes it off and moves on to another encounter.
I am trying not give much away but the author succeeds in minimizing a horrific type of violent crime and makes it seem more like an inconvenience than the emotionally and physically damaging act that it is.
Finally, I somewhat liked the 17th century tale until 1) the reader is required to suspend all disbelief and 2) it is clear that this story was nothing more than a cheap rewrite of a classic. Maybe you will see it differently but I have yet to read anything this poorly told or written.
There are essentially two stories in this book told separately. However, it doesn’t take a psychic to realize they are converging towards one another from the very start. This author fails to even keep track of her own stories and the actions of the characters, sometimes paragraph to paragraph. The timeline errors are numerous and just inexcusable. Who edited this thing? I could list numerous examples.
Beyond the timeline issues it cannot go without mention how a millennial from New York moves to England and within two weeks is speaking and dreaming a mix of American and Queens English. But let’s not stop there; she also uses terminology from the medieval period. It is as if the author has forgotten if she is working on the present day story or the 17th century story. She makes the same errors in reverse where the language in the 17th century story would be more fitting with the millennial in the present day.
I also am not sure why author’s feel it necessary to go into extreme detail about sexual aspects. I mean I heard cockstands enough to make me still cringe. This however was right in line with the author's style of using big words she clearly found in a thesaurus.it distracts from the story and just ruins continuity. And there is nothing more exciting to read about than a 17th century wife beater then going to work on his cockstand.
Finally, Ch 38. There is an intense and dramatic scene which had the author’s point been to shine a light of the horrific nature of this crime, I would give her kudos for this segment. However, it is quickly seen that she again could not resist giving the most explicit view when dealing with any topic sexual in nature. This was when I got angry. Because in the very next chapter, within hours of the event, the millennial just basically brushes it off and moves on to another encounter.
I am trying not give much away but the author succeeds in minimizing a horrific type of violent crime and makes it seem more like an inconvenience than the emotionally and physically damaging act that it is.
Finally, I somewhat liked the 17th century tale until 1) the reader is required to suspend all disbelief and 2) it is clear that this story was nothing more than a cheap rewrite of a classic. Maybe you will see it differently but I have yet to read anything this poorly told or written.
December 7, 2016
Lexi has always dreamed of living in England. When her father passes and leaves her enough to due as she wishes she makes her dream come true. She buys an old estate and decides to turn it into a hotel. She is drawn to the house and she has no clue why. During the renovation she falls under the houses spell and soon her whole life is changed.
This book was really good. The story of Brendan and the one that follows with Lexi is a bit crazy and a big mystery. This book was so well written and kept me guessing around every corner. The story was mysterious and sad. It was filled with love and family. It was really a great read from the very beginning.
I have really grown to love Irina Shapiro as an author. Each book I read from her is better than the last. I hope to read more from her in the future....Stormi
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This book was really good. The story of Brendan and the one that follows with Lexi is a bit crazy and a big mystery. This book was so well written and kept me guessing around every corner. The story was mysterious and sad. It was filled with love and family. It was really a great read from the very beginning.
I have really grown to love Irina Shapiro as an author. Each book I read from her is better than the last. I hope to read more from her in the future....Stormi
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July 14, 2016
This book carried an extreme amount of violence for its genre. Torture, rape, gruesome murders. it was not necessary to the plot either. any time a writer has a woman have sex the day after the person she has sex with rescues her from rape, you have a problematic book. Twisted morality regarding many things....disturbing.
May 31, 2024
Entertaining relationship listening 🎆✨🏚🎎
This kindle novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account a stand alone book
A novel with two stories one in the1650's during the Cornwall civil war, the other current day her dad dies and she starts a buys an estate to turn into a bread and breakfast. There is romance, lots of action, misdirection, and violence family and friends relationships in the English country side.
I would recommend this novel and author to readers of British historical romantic relationships novels. 2024
This kindle novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account a stand alone book
A novel with two stories one in the1650's during the Cornwall civil war, the other current day her dad dies and she starts a buys an estate to turn into a bread and breakfast. There is romance, lots of action, misdirection, and violence family and friends relationships in the English country side.
I would recommend this novel and author to readers of British historical romantic relationships novels. 2024
January 5, 2026
Got over half way and was really not expecting the sexual assault / wonky bodice ripper vibes in the modern era section of the story. Not what I picked up this book for since I was here for the spooky thriller vibes and so I’m gonna pass even though I liked a good amount.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2025
I actually really liked this book. I’ve never read a book like this, but it’s very much a romance and history married together. I loved the twist of fate at the end and it honestly kept me engaged! definitely going to explore this kind of reading more!
July 17, 2016
While I wasn't blown away by this book, I did enjoy reading it for the most part. It switches between time periods and POVs, something that I'm usually rather fond of in historical fiction/mysteries, but at times in Haunted Ground the POV switch seemed abrupt when it was within a chapter, and the time period changes were not always labeled so I'd start to read into the chapter and then realize. The writing as well had some brief lapses into unsophistication - multiple question marks, for example, at one point in the story as well as abrupt changes in feeling. There was at times a lot of telling and not showing.
However, overall I enjoyed reading the book, despite its flaws. The love story between the characters in the past and the present was sweet and uplifting, if not always overcome with joy, and the English Civil War made for a good historical backdrop. The mystery was compelling, although I wish there had been more of a supernatural bent to the narrative. 3/5.
However, overall I enjoyed reading the book, despite its flaws. The love story between the characters in the past and the present was sweet and uplifting, if not always overcome with joy, and the English Civil War made for a good historical backdrop. The mystery was compelling, although I wish there had been more of a supernatural bent to the narrative. 3/5.
February 11, 2023
Irina Shapiro has woven another FANTASTIC dual time-line novel!! The story educates us on the life of 1650 England, where Cromwell and his cronies fight the royalty for control of England. But along the way, lives and loves are lost ... hatred and jealousy abound ... and the power and control that men have over women is undeniably brutal! But, as one of my children's favorite teachers used to say, "What goes around, comes around!" As for the present time line, our heroine embarks on a life-held dream, only to encounter her own surprises and shocks! I just LOVED it all!! Ms. Shapiro still remains one of my favorite authors!
November 4, 2022
Merging a story by time is cool
It is ultimately one story from two different directions in time. I think some of the romance was over the top. And what was the point of the attack? A nice “Happy Ever After” but a bit too toes up in a bow.
It is ultimately one story from two different directions in time. I think some of the romance was over the top. And what was the point of the attack? A nice “Happy Ever After” but a bit too toes up in a bow.
January 19, 2015
I love a good historical/present day dual setting romantic mystery. I found myself immersed in this one right away, with the rich detailed settings that Ms. Shapiro writes, the quality of characters that grip you in their stories.
When present day Lexi Maxwell feels compelled to go to England and buy a house, she gets more than she bargained for. The house comes with a haunted ruin, but not everyone can see the ghost that kneels by the old tree everyday like she can. She can't explain why she wanted this house, that has haunted her dreams and drawings since she was a child, but she has to have it.
She hires a local handyman, Aiden Mackay, to oversee the remodeling, for she wants to turn it into a bed and breakfast. From there, she begins to try and put her life in order.
In the 1650's, Brendan Carr has left his regiment, heading home. But he's greeted by the fact that his father is dead, and his brother Jasper has taken control over the estate. Worse, his brother may have had something to do with his father's death just so he could take over and usurp Brendan's rightful place. He's also very vengeful and filled with hatred. Urged to leave quickly, he takes to his uncle's estate, but on his heels are soldiers looking for him for deserting. There, at his uncle's estate, he's doctored by a young woman, Rowan. What begins as a healing turns into love.
Lexi and Aiden work side by side, but there is an attraction there that soon blossoms into romance. As they work to repair the house, Lexi begins to unravel the mystery behind the ruins and what transpired here centuries ago. Learning about Brendan and Rowan proves to give Lexi answers to her own past that she may or may not be ready to know.
Like I said, this is a romance, but more of a mystery, with historical details that kept me reading. I was more interested in the present day storyline, because Brendan's I found was so dark. It felt like all the lights were off and I was trying to navigate through murky water. There was nothing uplifting about his story, so it was hard for me to read through his chapters. Still, it was worth it in the end to have it all pulled together. A very good read that will keep you turning the pages.
When present day Lexi Maxwell feels compelled to go to England and buy a house, she gets more than she bargained for. The house comes with a haunted ruin, but not everyone can see the ghost that kneels by the old tree everyday like she can. She can't explain why she wanted this house, that has haunted her dreams and drawings since she was a child, but she has to have it.
She hires a local handyman, Aiden Mackay, to oversee the remodeling, for she wants to turn it into a bed and breakfast. From there, she begins to try and put her life in order.
In the 1650's, Brendan Carr has left his regiment, heading home. But he's greeted by the fact that his father is dead, and his brother Jasper has taken control over the estate. Worse, his brother may have had something to do with his father's death just so he could take over and usurp Brendan's rightful place. He's also very vengeful and filled with hatred. Urged to leave quickly, he takes to his uncle's estate, but on his heels are soldiers looking for him for deserting. There, at his uncle's estate, he's doctored by a young woman, Rowan. What begins as a healing turns into love.
Lexi and Aiden work side by side, but there is an attraction there that soon blossoms into romance. As they work to repair the house, Lexi begins to unravel the mystery behind the ruins and what transpired here centuries ago. Learning about Brendan and Rowan proves to give Lexi answers to her own past that she may or may not be ready to know.
Like I said, this is a romance, but more of a mystery, with historical details that kept me reading. I was more interested in the present day storyline, because Brendan's I found was so dark. It felt like all the lights were off and I was trying to navigate through murky water. There was nothing uplifting about his story, so it was hard for me to read through his chapters. Still, it was worth it in the end to have it all pulled together. A very good read that will keep you turning the pages.
April 5, 2018
Such an intriguing, heart wrenching story. Fairly well edited, although it contained one of my pet peeves - inconsistency in names. Throughout the book Stephen's last name was alternately 'Aldridge' and 'Aldrich'. Please, pick one and stay with it!
This book has two intertwined stories running simultaneously. One is present day - Lexi dreams of owning her own B & B in England. And, not just any place, but a specific place that she sees in her mind's eye. After her father dies, she sells his business and has enough money to pursue her dream. Her search eventually turns up the very house she has dreamed of, which she buys and begins renovating. One night, she sees a man in the ruins of a house on her property. Who is they man? Why is he at the house?
The second story takes place in 1650, and tells the heartbreaking story of Brendan Carr. He has deserted Oliver Cromwell's army, sick of the senseless killing of men, women, and children. He arrives home to find himself disinherited, his father dead, his sister widowed, and his brother unwelcoming. Brendan is sent on his way, and injured in an attempt on his life. He is sheltered by a priest and nursed back to health by his aunt's niece, Rowan. What follows is a Romeo and Juliet style love. What happens to the star-crossed lovers? How does Brendan's story relate to Lexi?
I really loved this. My heart just broke for Brendan and the rotten hand he was dealt. I was so happy to see at least one villain get his. What a lovely, beautifully heartbreaking, satisfying story. Enjoy!
This book has two intertwined stories running simultaneously. One is present day - Lexi dreams of owning her own B & B in England. And, not just any place, but a specific place that she sees in her mind's eye. After her father dies, she sells his business and has enough money to pursue her dream. Her search eventually turns up the very house she has dreamed of, which she buys and begins renovating. One night, she sees a man in the ruins of a house on her property. Who is they man? Why is he at the house?
The second story takes place in 1650, and tells the heartbreaking story of Brendan Carr. He has deserted Oliver Cromwell's army, sick of the senseless killing of men, women, and children. He arrives home to find himself disinherited, his father dead, his sister widowed, and his brother unwelcoming. Brendan is sent on his way, and injured in an attempt on his life. He is sheltered by a priest and nursed back to health by his aunt's niece, Rowan. What follows is a Romeo and Juliet style love. What happens to the star-crossed lovers? How does Brendan's story relate to Lexi?
I really loved this. My heart just broke for Brendan and the rotten hand he was dealt. I was so happy to see at least one villain get his. What a lovely, beautifully heartbreaking, satisfying story. Enjoy!
December 4, 2021
If you like historical stories about ghosts then Irina Shapiro book is for you. She is fascinating and you will not want to put her book down. I recommend this book for you!
October 16, 2014
Haunted Ground is the story of a woman who moves to England after inheriting a fortune and finally gets to live through her dream of owning an old manor house and reviving it to be a Bed and Breakfast. The house is old and full of history and through the restoration, she gets a bit more than she bargained for...
This book was billed as paranormal and I guess I was looking at it as something to rival
but I was disappointed. Despite having a ghost, it was not a ghost story like I was expecting. It was merely the story of two people, linked through time. You could have taken the paranormal stuff out and it would have barely made a difference in the story line.
As it is though, it is sort of a progressive thriller on both sides of the story. All of the characters are going through trials and tribulations. It makes them human in a way and it made you empathetic towards them. People struggle in life and none of it was unbelievable. Everybody was fallible and somewhat lost in themselves.
Haunted Ground will never be one of my favorites but it was a quick read and enjoyable.
This book was billed as paranormal and I guess I was looking at it as something to rival
but I was disappointed. Despite having a ghost, it was not a ghost story like I was expecting. It was merely the story of two people, linked through time. You could have taken the paranormal stuff out and it would have barely made a difference in the story line. As it is though, it is sort of a progressive thriller on both sides of the story. All of the characters are going through trials and tribulations. It makes them human in a way and it made you empathetic towards them. People struggle in life and none of it was unbelievable. Everybody was fallible and somewhat lost in themselves.
Haunted Ground will never be one of my favorites but it was a quick read and enjoyable.
July 27, 2018
Such a good read!
I love how she can intertwine the past and the present so well! Its kind of like you get two stories in one book. Its not time travel, but she can transport you to the past. I've already read three in the Echos of the Past series, waiting on the fourth. And this one, which is just as good, in a different way. Im going to start on the other series because I can't stop. I love historical romance!
I love how she can intertwine the past and the present so well! Its kind of like you get two stories in one book. Its not time travel, but she can transport you to the past. I've already read three in the Echos of the Past series, waiting on the fourth. And this one, which is just as good, in a different way. Im going to start on the other series because I can't stop. I love historical romance!
January 13, 2018
Romantic ghostly story with a few twists and turns
I could not put this book down. Read it in one day. Past and present together. Two romantic stories one tragic. I did have a tear in my eye. Ghosts, old houses and a mystery. Brilliant
I could not put this book down. Read it in one day. Past and present together. Two romantic stories one tragic. I did have a tear in my eye. Ghosts, old houses and a mystery. Brilliant
April 30, 2019
Should have been warned
The ghost story portion of this book was ingenious and interesting, however, I was greatly disappointed by the "bodice ripper" element and the graphic sex scenes.
The ghost story portion of this book was ingenious and interesting, however, I was greatly disappointed by the "bodice ripper" element and the graphic sex scenes.
April 8, 2015
Set in Ireland, this book combines historical research, modern mystery and cultural practices
September 4, 2019
1650: England has been decimated by Civil War. Charles l has been executed and Oliver Cromwell is relentless in the slaughter of those who stand in the way of his Commonwealth. Tired of the killing, a disillusioned Brendan Carr, deserts his post and heads for home. His homecoming is marred by the discovery that his father is dead, his sister widowed and he has been disinherited. His vindictive brother Jasper, now lord of the estate, refuses to shelter him lest the Roundheads come for him.
Brendan decides to leave and take refuge with his mother’s kin. Not satisfied with usurping Brendan’s inheritance, Jasper sends men to kill Brendan before he reaches his destination. Brendan survives the attack but is seriously wounded. Sheltered by a priest, Brendan is nursed back to health by his Aunt’s niece Rowan. With Cromwell’s men scouring the country for him for desertion as well as his malicious brother, does Brendan stand any chance of happiness?
Present Day: Following the death of her father, Lexie Maxwell fulfils a lifelong dream to move to England. Purchasing a derelict mansion in a quaint English village with the intention of turning it into a manor-house hotel, Lexie is intrigued by the rumoured ghost which supposedly haunts the ruins accompanying the mansion. As Lexie tries to find out more about the man in the ruin, she unexpectedly stumbles across secrets from her own past that threatens all that she holds dear.
Haunted Ground is a stand alone dual time novel set in the 17th century during Cromwell’s Reign of Terror. The author has a wonderful knack for transporting her readers to the past and this book was no exception. I found myself completely immersed from the tragic prologue to the satisfying epilogue where at least one villain got his comeuppance. The characters were well defined and relatable. I was impressed with the stunning vivid imagery depicted by the author which made me feel that I was there seeing the sights and sounds.
All in all this was a well crafted suspenseful novel which will appeal to fans of historical fiction, with a touch of paranormal and a Scotsman to boot - what’s not to like?
I received an advanced free audible copy of Haunted Ground and I am voluntarily reviewing it. I was impressed by Joanne Long’s smooth and concise narration. Her excellent pacing had me getting lost in her recitation without ever noticing the time.
Brendan decides to leave and take refuge with his mother’s kin. Not satisfied with usurping Brendan’s inheritance, Jasper sends men to kill Brendan before he reaches his destination. Brendan survives the attack but is seriously wounded. Sheltered by a priest, Brendan is nursed back to health by his Aunt’s niece Rowan. With Cromwell’s men scouring the country for him for desertion as well as his malicious brother, does Brendan stand any chance of happiness?
Present Day: Following the death of her father, Lexie Maxwell fulfils a lifelong dream to move to England. Purchasing a derelict mansion in a quaint English village with the intention of turning it into a manor-house hotel, Lexie is intrigued by the rumoured ghost which supposedly haunts the ruins accompanying the mansion. As Lexie tries to find out more about the man in the ruin, she unexpectedly stumbles across secrets from her own past that threatens all that she holds dear.
Haunted Ground is a stand alone dual time novel set in the 17th century during Cromwell’s Reign of Terror. The author has a wonderful knack for transporting her readers to the past and this book was no exception. I found myself completely immersed from the tragic prologue to the satisfying epilogue where at least one villain got his comeuppance. The characters were well defined and relatable. I was impressed with the stunning vivid imagery depicted by the author which made me feel that I was there seeing the sights and sounds.
All in all this was a well crafted suspenseful novel which will appeal to fans of historical fiction, with a touch of paranormal and a Scotsman to boot - what’s not to like?
I received an advanced free audible copy of Haunted Ground and I am voluntarily reviewing it. I was impressed by Joanne Long’s smooth and concise narration. Her excellent pacing had me getting lost in her recitation without ever noticing the time.
November 20, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this very artistically woven historical novel written alternatively four hundred centuries apart and was quickly drawn into the mystery of how Brendan Carr from the times of Lord Cromwell fit into the ruin behind the manor home that Lexi Maxwell has just purchased to turn into a quaint 17th century bed and breakfast in the present day. Our author, however, is a master at blending the stories and does a remarkable job doing so as she weaves the clues throughout the story and the characters peopling her novel. Her writing starkly delivers how perilous those times were in the 1600's when few knew who to trust and how neighbors sold out neighbors for food to feed their families. Treachery was rampant, soldiers and mercernaries often treated women without respect, and the author presented realistic treatment given to many farmers, their wives, and children during this horrible time.
The mysteries contained within the manor and the ruin across the stream and behind the manor, as well as the lack of information Lexi was able to find out about her new home or the people who lived there before her made her wonder what had happened to keep everyone in the village so quiet about it. Why didn't they seem to want to talk with her about it?
This novel is very well written and comes together excellently. All the many threads from the tapestry are woven in so expertly at the end that I had no questions remaining, only wishes, but the ending is a good one, and I look forward to reading many more of this author's works and recommend that you start her works by reading this sweet and tremendously beautiful novel.
The mysteries contained within the manor and the ruin across the stream and behind the manor, as well as the lack of information Lexi was able to find out about her new home or the people who lived there before her made her wonder what had happened to keep everyone in the village so quiet about it. Why didn't they seem to want to talk with her about it?
This novel is very well written and comes together excellently. All the many threads from the tapestry are woven in so expertly at the end that I had no questions remaining, only wishes, but the ending is a good one, and I look forward to reading many more of this author's works and recommend that you start her works by reading this sweet and tremendously beautiful novel.
October 23, 2019
England pulls at Lexi, demanding she come to the county and follow her dreams. When the opportunity finally comes, Lexi finds more than her dreams are waiting for her.
Another great book from Shapiro that weaves the past and present together wonderfully. The book is rich with detail of the English countryside (from the past and present) and the reader is able to truly immerse oneself into the scenes. There were parts of the plot that I felt were completely unneeded and a bit much for me. Trigger warning for sexual assault. The assault was anticipated (you could tell it was being led up to), but once it occurred, it just was almost never spoken of again. I don't think it added to the plot or character development. If that part was left out, I think I would have enjoyed the book more. Despite this, I would still recommend to any fans of Shapiro!
Another great book from Shapiro that weaves the past and present together wonderfully. The book is rich with detail of the English countryside (from the past and present) and the reader is able to truly immerse oneself into the scenes. There were parts of the plot that I felt were completely unneeded and a bit much for me. Trigger warning for sexual assault. The assault was anticipated (you could tell it was being led up to), but once it occurred, it just was almost never spoken of again. I don't think it added to the plot or character development. If that part was left out, I think I would have enjoyed the book more. Despite this, I would still recommend to any fans of Shapiro!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2019
The genre of this novel is as long as the book itself; fictional/historical/romantic/gothic/mystery. Yet, as the chapters keep jumping from present time to the 1650s, it works out quite well.
Lexi's always had a yearning to go to England, yet her father wouldn't allow it. After he dies, she sells his business, becomes a wealthy woman and finally travels to England. She finds an abandoned mansion, finds herself extremely drawn to it, and it's for sale. Having a degree in Hotel Hospitality, this would be a perfect hotel in the English countryside.
While hainge it restored, she sees, what she thought was a wandering tourist, but ends up being a ghostly spectre. Not saying anything else as it would only ruin the plot with a load of spoilers. Hint though, have a box of tissues nearby as you read the final chapters.
Lexi's always had a yearning to go to England, yet her father wouldn't allow it. After he dies, she sells his business, becomes a wealthy woman and finally travels to England. She finds an abandoned mansion, finds herself extremely drawn to it, and it's for sale. Having a degree in Hotel Hospitality, this would be a perfect hotel in the English countryside.
While hainge it restored, she sees, what she thought was a wandering tourist, but ends up being a ghostly spectre. Not saying anything else as it would only ruin the plot with a load of spoilers. Hint though, have a box of tissues nearby as you read the final chapters.
May 9, 2021
This is the second book I've had by Irina Shapiro - the first was actually the series, The Hands of Time, which I absolutely loved. This book, Haunted Ground, didn't disappoint. I have my echo dot reading to me whilst showering etc, but I can't stop listening as I go about whatever I'm doing, then carry on reading it on my kindle when it comes time for my husband to put the TV on. These books are right up my street, as a fan of history, time travel, and links between the past and present. I can't wait to read more of Irina's books. I feel as though they might have been written with me in mind!
I highly recommend this and The Hands Of Time to anyone who loves the same genres as I do. The characters are very believable - I felt I got to know them very quickly, and the stories are so well written, I can barely tear myself away from start to satisfying end
I highly recommend this and The Hands Of Time to anyone who loves the same genres as I do. The characters are very believable - I felt I got to know them very quickly, and the stories are so well written, I can barely tear myself away from start to satisfying end
December 25, 2025
Three + stars for the past story, one star for the present day.
While there wasn't quite enough time spent with Brendan and Rowan in the past, their story was much more engaging than Lexi's story. The present day stuff was all over the place, with violence that abruptly happens and then pretty much gets swept under the rug, and Lexi's weird reactions to events. She just wasn't a believable person.
What really soured me on the present day story was Aiden. When it's revealed that he dumped his girlfriend because she had the audacity to want a career instead of marriage/kids (when she's in her early 20's!), I immediately wanted him to get hit by a bus. Ugh.
I not opposed to reading this author again, as I've liked some of her stuff, but let's hope the next one is better than this.
While there wasn't quite enough time spent with Brendan and Rowan in the past, their story was much more engaging than Lexi's story. The present day stuff was all over the place, with violence that abruptly happens and then pretty much gets swept under the rug, and Lexi's weird reactions to events. She just wasn't a believable person.
What really soured me on the present day story was Aiden. When it's revealed that he dumped his girlfriend because she had the audacity to want a career instead of marriage/kids (when she's in her early 20's!), I immediately wanted him to get hit by a bus. Ugh.
I not opposed to reading this author again, as I've liked some of her stuff, but let's hope the next one is better than this.
October 4, 2019
Haunted Ground
: Irina Shapiro
This is a story or rather two stories intertwined and interwoven into one romance. The characters in the 1600's are the beginning of the long suspenseful, romance. The story line switches back and forth with the modern romance. Lexi will discover secrets that will make her wonder who she really is. The people she meets as she tries to untangle the past are a different sort. I liked the premise and listened anxiously to find out the ending.
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed. Joanne Long was a good fit for this book.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
: Irina Shapiro
This is a story or rather two stories intertwined and interwoven into one romance. The characters in the 1600's are the beginning of the long suspenseful, romance. The story line switches back and forth with the modern romance. Lexi will discover secrets that will make her wonder who she really is. The people she meets as she tries to untangle the past are a different sort. I liked the premise and listened anxiously to find out the ending.
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed. Joanne Long was a good fit for this book.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
March 29, 2023
What a wonderful story
I never saw ANY of this coming ! What a wonderful story about life and death in the 1600's. Present day; Alex leaves New York and buys a huge manor house in England with the intentions of turning it into a bed and breakfast. While work is in full swing, she finds all sorts of things in the house to give her pause. #1 a ghost. So many twists and turns happen next and I never guessed a single one. I can't say much more without spoilers, but I highly recommend this book.
I never saw ANY of this coming ! What a wonderful story about life and death in the 1600's. Present day; Alex leaves New York and buys a huge manor house in England with the intentions of turning it into a bed and breakfast. While work is in full swing, she finds all sorts of things in the house to give her pause. #1 a ghost. So many twists and turns happen next and I never guessed a single one. I can't say much more without spoilers, but I highly recommend this book.
January 26, 2026
I stumbled upon the audiobook for free on Audible. I went in completely blind, which is what I usually do for audiobooks. Let me say that that I am usually a dark romance reader, so the cover was intriguing, but this book was not my typical "read". It did not have a lot of smut (nearly none), but the story was absolutely incredible. I felt myself really sitting and paying attention to each character's dialogue and interactions within the story. The writing was beautiful and paced well. I am so incredibly glad I found this author!
June 6, 2019
A melding of the past and present. The inexplicable draw of a home in England for an American women who purchases the home. Falling in love with her Scottish handyman, finding out why a man is haunting the grounds and her own realization of her heritage. This story will evoke your emotions, it has me crying at some points. Well written, full length novel. I received a complimentary audio and this review is voluntary.
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