The Broken and the Beautiful

by J. Střelou

Imagine Bridgerton, but everyone’s navigating dark trauma in a gothic setting . . .
*Please check trigger warnings before reading

Orphaned and stripped of her inheritance, Isadora is sent to live with an aunt whose single ambition is to see her married.

With no say in the matter, Isadora is swept into a season of balls, soirées, and relentless introductions.

But Isadora's dark past leaves her feeling out of place and lonely in this glittering society, unworthy of attention from the gentlemanly Mr. Theodore Westridge.

Instead, she's drawn to the eerie Harrowmoor Hall, a house that seems to hold pain like her own, and to a mysterious painter who once lived there.

When yearning outweighs logic, everything will fall apart.

Pride and Prejudice meets The Phantom of the Opera; The Broken and the Beautiful is a binge-worthy, beautifully tragic love story.


TROPES:

Slow Burn Gothic Romance 🌶️

Whimsical FMC ✨

Healing Trauma REP ❤️

Beautiful people making questionable choices 🌹

Dark and Brooding MMC VS Golden Retriever MMC 🖤

Hot Priest 🕯️

Eerie and Suspense-filled 😱

Genres: Romance, Gothic, Paranormal, Historical, Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Mystery

337 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2026

About the author

Julia Střelou (J. Střelou) is a fantasy romance author and poet.
She was born in Glasgow and raised in Australia on a hippie commune without electricity, where she spent her time lost in books. She now lives in beautiful Middle-earth, AKA. New Zealand.
She is a hopeless romantic and loves weaving intricate tales of tortured hearts in magical worlds.
Millions worldwide have shared her short poems about love, heartbreak, and healing. Sea of Evil and Desire is her debut novel.

Reviews

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from author.

I loved this book and it gave me all the feelings I enjoy from reading period dramas. A little bit of trouble but the characters have a happy ending similar to Austin’s work.

I loved the writing, the characters, the mystery and intrigue. And Theodore is a saint! Think I liked him more than the main character. Gorgeous man.

Easy 5 stars. 🤩
Super grateful for this copy from the author.

[Sammi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

The Broken and the Beautiful is an emotional, character-driven story that kept me guessing throughout. While I found the first half of the book slower to get through, the second half completely captured my attention and became increasingly difficult to put down.

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is its character development. The author takes the time to build the relationships and motivations of the characters, allowing readers to become invested in their journeys. The slow-burn romance was particularly well done, developing naturally over the course of the story rather than feeling rushed.

The writing itself flows easily, with scenes described in enough detail to immerse the reader without becoming overwhelming. I found myself getting lost in both the story and the characters, and I appreciated how the author portrayed the contrast between the male characters. Their differences were vividly drawn while still leaving room for the reader's own interpretation.

My feelings toward the main female character were mixed. She was certainly interesting and complex, but at times her indecisiveness frustrated me. There were moments when she came across as selfish or dismissive of how her actions might affect those around her, which occasionally made it difficult for me to connect with her. However, these flaws also made her feel realistic rather than perfect.

What stood out most was the way the story continually surprised me. Every chapter seemed to reveal something new, keeping me engaged and eager to discover what would happen next. The ending, in particular, was beautifully executed. The final twist left me feeling both happiness and heartbreak at the same time—a rare achievement that stayed with me long after I finished the book.

Overall, The Broken and the Beautiful is a compelling read featuring strong character development, an engaging slow-burn romance, and an emotionally impactful conclusion. Readers who enjoy character-focused stories with emotional depth and unexpected turns will likely find plenty to love here.

[Gracie Howells · Rating 4 out of 5]

First half of the book i was thinking ‘oh this will be a 3 star ⭐️ read’ BOY WAS I WRONG! The second half of this book chef’s kiss, when I say I couldn’t put this book down i mean i couldn’t it’s 4am right now… This book put me through a rollercoaster of emotions from giggling and kicking my feet to crying and throwing my kindle. This book showed me that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that you shouldn’t give up or push people away when life gets hard.

[Caroll-Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

📖 The Broken And The Beautiful by J. Strelou

⭐️⭐️⭐️

It took me a while to get through this book, not because the writing wasn’t beautiful or engaging, but because I always struggle with books set in this particular time period. The way women were expected to secure their futures through marriage, how little independence they had, and how their worth was often measured by the husband they managed to find just infuriates me. I can’t even imagine what it must have been like to live in a society where women had so little control over their own lives.

The story follows Isadora, who loses her parents and her inheritance, leaving her in the care of an aunt who is determined to find her a suitable husband. While navigating society’s expectations and the endless balls and social gatherings, Isadora struggles with her traumatic past and her feelings of loneliness. But when she becomes drawn to the mysterious Harrowmoor Hall and the secrets surrounding a painter who once lived there, things take a much darker and more unexpected turn.

To me, this book felt like Bridgerton meets Ghost, with a gothic atmosphere, supernatural elements, and a story about love, grief, healing from trauma, and finding yourself. I didn’t quite know what to expect going into it, but I appreciated the way the story explored the idea of feeling broken and learning that you’re still worthy of love.

Personally, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the FMC, although I didn’t find her insufferable either. The writing was beautiful, and there were definitely moments I really enjoyed, but overall, the story didn’t captivate me as much as I had hoped. I think the historical setting and some of the character dynamics made it harder for me to fully connect with the story.

Nevertheless, I can appreciate what the author created, and I’m glad I gave this book a chance. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves gothic historical romances, a touch of the paranormal, and emotionally driven love stories that might not have the happiest ending but still leave you with a sense of hope.

[Emily Agnew · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I had touched darkness. It had marked me. Now I found myself calling for it and rejecting the light.”

First of all, I would like to thank J. Strelou for sending me an ARC of The Broken & The Beautiful.

I finished this book in three days, it was an addictive read that had me hooked on finding out what happens next. Overall, I think this book was a brilliant introduction to gothic romance, as it was quite digestible for someone who hasn't read a whole lot in that genre.

Isadora:
She was a character who I felt was very different to Strelou's past FMC's and her quiet longing and darkness was certainly felt through the pages. Her dilemma of whether to follow her heart and her brain had me routing for both at different times. She frustrated me at times, but more because of the era it was set in! I wanted her to have her love without worrying about a dowry and her extended family be affected by her choices!

Mr. Winters:
He was certainly the bad boy with a tortured past vibes. His mystery and avoidance of answering Isadora's questions both frustrated and intrigued me at the same time. What do you mean you won't dance with her?! But of course, it's all explained later in the book.

Mr. Westridge:
Golden retriever vibes through and through. He was such a good egg and I honestly just loved his character. I felt for him when Isadora was unable to decide whether to pursue her head or her heart and I was on his team the whole way through. He is such a gentleman.

This book does have some dark themes to it, and the I felt like it was touched on quite well without being too graphic and a well written healing story. The only thing I would say as constructive criticism was that the novel felt a little rushed. I really wanted to dive into the story and characters with a lot more depth and spend more time within the world.

Overall, I would recommend this book as the perfect entrance into gothic romance. It was moody and beautiful, and of course, some of the quotes are incredibly moving!

[Penny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Where do I even begin with this one? The premise had me immediately clutching my pearls... gothic manor, weird paintings, brooding noblemen, candlelit corridors, and enough Bridgerton-esque yearning to fog up an entire ballroom. Yaaaas. There was a LOT of dramatic glove-sliding onto elbows, an alarming amount of cheek-chewing, and enough storming dramatically out of rooms to qualify as cardio.

The story follows Isadora as she’s pulled into this dark gothic mystery surrounding hauntingly beautiful paintings, the enigmatic Lord D’Alps, and the whole “is this romance or supernatural manipulation?” situation. Add lavish balls, ghostly whispers, tragic backstories and a love triangle with one man very much alive and another… decidedly less so… and honestly I didn't hate the vibes, im here for it.

But then… there was Isadora.

Reader, this woman tested me!!!

Sweet merciful spirits above, I have never wanted to shake a fictional woman so badly in my life. What an absolute menace. Girl spent approximately three encounters with Lord D’Alps, most of which involved her dramatically flouncing away from him and suddenly she’s willing to ruin her entire life over this man and his haunted Etsy portrait collection.

I have never seen someone make so many catastrophic emotional decisions with such confidence.

Meanwhile Theodore, the literal town hottie is RIGHT THERE. Beautiful. Loyal. Patient. Breathing. The poor man spends the whole book essentially going: “Perhaps you could acknowledge my existence?” And Isadora’s just: “Sorry I’m busy cheating on you with Casper Regency Edition.”


The progression of my thoughts when reading this book which made a change from the eye rolls was: “Oh?” “…OH.” “No because surely not.” “REAAAAALLY?” “… oh wow we are actually doing this"

Honestly I didn’t hate this book at all. I actually had fun reading it. The gothic vibes absolutely delivered, the haunted romance was entertainingly chaotic, and parts genuinely sucked me in. But it also felt like the book had consumed three different Pinterest boards at once: Gothic Horror, Bridgerton Ballroom Aesthetic, and Sad Ghost Men Who Need Hugs.

A messy haunted fever dream. Respectfully.

Thanks to the Author and Netgalley for the ARC copy

[Laray 🥀 · Rating 5 out of 5]

eARC • Review of advance copy received by the author and NetGalley.

“An artist’s mind is the perfect contradiction. They create things of beauty out of their pain.”

This was such a beautiful and mysterious book! Gothic, eerie and atmospheric perfection. This was giving Pride and Prejudice vibes mixed with Wuthering Heights.

The book follows Isadora, an orphan stripped from her inheritance as she is sent to live with her aunt. While she navigates her new life, she is pressured to attend balls, participate in societal expectations and ultimately secure a husband.

The yearning, slow burn, character development, emotional tension and strong relationships were so well written. And the twists were unpredictable and delightful. A poetic and compelling story ending in both heartache and happiness.

Thanks to the author for this amazing eArc!

[Hannah Virani · Rating 2 out of 5]

thank you to netgalley for a copy of this arc!

this was an interesting read to say the least. i really enjoyed the first half of the book, but once the plot started to develop, i was less enthusiastic about it. the world building and the prose was lovely and the book itself was written wonderfully but unfortunately, i did not enjoy the second half of the plot at all.

[Ashley Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded to 5 ⭐️

“Miss Blackwood, please believe me when I say I would endure this pain a thousand times over if it meant I could meet you once more.”

The Broken and the Beautiful by J. Střelou felt like stepping into another century. I felt like I was in 1600–1700s, the writing beautifully wrapped itself around my imagination and painted a vivid movie in my mind. Every scene felt atmospheric and immersive, making it easy to lose myself in the world.

This story is beautifully haunting—a tale of broken people, broken hearts, and the slow, tender process of rebuilding. There was a melancholy woven through the pages that lingered long after I finished, balanced by moments of hope and healing.

It’s romantic, aching, and unforgettable—much like the book itself.

If you enjoy historical settings, emotional journeys, and stories that explore what it means to be broken and made whole again, this one is worth picking.

Thank you J. Střelou and NetGalley for this opportunity. These words are my own and I will be getting a copy of this book when it releases 10/31/2026- the most perfect season for this book.

[Michelle · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for the Advanced Readers Copy!

Overall Rating: 2.5 out of 5
Spice Rating: 2 out of 5

Pros:
- The plot is interesting. I enjoyed the twist, though I had guessed it quite early on.
- I do feel like the trauma some of the characters endured were honored in their continuous healing journey.

Cons:
- Theodore is the most patient man in the universe. For me this was the most unrealistic part of the story, because even as a reader I was fed up with Isadora. I mean really what she does to him after having all the time in the world to do "what she must do" was upsetting.
- The characters felt inconsistent in their journeys. A few steps forward and then a whole leap back.
- The pacing felt inconsistent to me. We started out fast and quick to the points if the story. Then slowed wayyy down, just to whip our heads toward fast again.

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isadora is left with no inheritance when her parents tragically die. This quiet young woman is brought to her aunt, uncle, and cousin to live with. However, with their money dwindling, the aunt is determined to marry both her daughter and her niece to well-off men.

Due to her endearing appreciation for the beauty in things, the very eligible and young gentleman, Theodore Westridge, is enamored by Isadora. However, the past still haunts her and Isadora gravitates toward the old house Harrowmoor Hall. She is met by the most exquisite paintings and for the first time, she feels herself healing from losing her parents.

She also meets a dark, reserved and mysterious man in Harrowmoor Hall. As much as she pushes it aside, her desire and intrigue of this man increases with each passing day. Her brain is scattered in choosing what seems right and what she desires.

Follow Isadora in this captivating gothic romantasy, "The Broken and the Beautiful" by J. Střelou.

I don't always read a book whose genre/trope is considered gothic, however, I have read a couple of this author's other works, so I was excited to give this one a try. Truly, I have to say that I enjoyed this book very much.

Thinking about the atmosphere of this book, I found it to be so enthralling. The author does an amazing job in capturing the almost dark cloud that looms over a person who has experienced the loss of a loved one. I could feel Isadora's heavy heart and how she first views the world once her parents pass on. The other aspect that helped this darker, gothic feeling was Isadora's entanglement with the mysterious painter. So many of their interactions were mysterious and seemingly unrealistic. The interactions had an air of otherworldly.

Told in Isadora's perspective made the story quick and easy to read. Though some of her decisions are quite impulsive and done without much thought of consequences afterwards, it made the overall story fun to read. She was driven by curiosity and eventual strong feelings that she could not control. Though sometimes Isadora seemed thoughtless (due to her strong feelings), she was an overall kind and gentle character to follow. She was never one to gloat or boast about anything. To her credit, she does eventually share the truth to those who matter to her the most.

The beginning sequences of the book was rather dull at first. I don't believe I needed to go to so many balls with the characters. Perhaps this is a natural way of how this type of society works, but it wasn't to my liking. I'm glad, though, that there were some exciting moments along the way and the balls did eventually slow down while the bigger plot picked up.

Aside from some of the beginning, the love interests felt a little flat. Isadora's interactions, infatuation, and impulsive behavior toward the painter seemed unrealistic. She dove so quickly without really getting to know him. Then, there was Theodore. His infatuation with Isadora also seemed surface level. I felt as if this book was trying to show the "love at first sight" trope with maybe a little more information to go by. It just seemed as if nobody knew each other well enough to call their feelings love. This could be the nature of how marriage for advancement in society and money works - where so many relationships are surface level - but I didn't feel Isadora really had a true deep connection with either man.

To be honest, I was a little worried of how the ending was going to go. There were a few distinct paths that the author could have taken Isadora and the characters. However, I believe the author chose the best ending so that it was still a happy one for the protagonists.

Content warning: There is a raping scene that happens and the severe grief of losing parents are present in the story. There are also a couple of sexual scenes that are included. In addition, there is a quick and almost out-of-place death of a child in the book.

The story depicts themes of societal expectations of women, being able to make your choices, protection, love, familial connections, grief, loss, healing, and forgiveness.

Overall, I really enjoyed "The Broken and the Beautiful" and thought it had an intriguing plot with a protagonist that was easy to follow. The atmosphere was perfect for this gothic tale and I appreciated how the author wrapped up the tale. Though there were some questionable moments of the characters truly being in love and how forgiving Theodore could be, I had a fun time reading this book. I rate "The Broken and the Beautiful" 4 out of 5 stars. I recommend "The Broken and the Beautiful" to those who enjoy gothic romantasies and would be okay with the content warnings mentioned above.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author (J. Střelou) for giving me the opportunity to read "The Broken and the Beautiful". All opinions are my own.

BookloverBlogs17 Review: https://bookloverblogs17.wordpress.co...

[Erin Arkin · Rating 3 out of 5]

J. Střelou’s The Broken and the Beautiful is a fascinating atmospheric concoction of historical romance injected with dark trauma, gothic eeriness, and a compelling paranormal twist. The novel follows Isadora (Issy), an orphaned young woman stripped of her inheritance and thrust into the suffocating care of an aunt whose sole ambition is to marry her off. Set against a moody, suspense-filled backdrop that blends period drama elements with eerie, otherworldly undertones, the story serves up a slow-burn romance wrapped in layers of deep emotional scars. While the world-building and gothic atmosphere hook you right from the start, it is Isadora’s tumultuous character arc and the sheer emotional labor of the supporting cast that truly anchor the narrative.

At the heart of the book is Isadora’s compelling, if frequently frustrating, journey. As an FMC, Issy is intensely whimsical, deeply empathetic, and driven by a fierce loyalty that ultimately becomes her greatest stumbling block. Her determination to help Archie is entirely understandable; you feel her deep-seated motivations, empathy, and the desperate yearning that clouds her better judgment. However, watching Issy navigate her trauma also means watching her make decisions that are definitively not in her best interest. Střelou does not write a flawless heroine; instead, she crafts a deeply human one whose refusal to compromise on her impulsive missions nearly costs her everything. There are moments throughout the story where her lack of logic when mixed with heavy emotional stakes will have readers holding their breath—and occasionally shaking their heads—as she dances dangerously close to total self-destruction.

Fortunately, balancing out Isadora’s high-stakes stubbornness is a stellar cast of characters, chief among them being Theodore. If Isadora represents the chaotic, burning energy of a soul trying to heal from deep trauma, Theodore provides an anchor of staggering stability. Placed in a dynamic that tests the limits of devotion, Theodore displays the patience of an absolute saint. His unwavering support, quiet strength, and ability to weather Isadora's self-sabotaging storms add an incredible layer of emotional tension to the book. The contrast between the dark, brooding elements of the narrative and Theodore’s grounded, golden-retriever-esque steadfastness makes their slow-burn dynamic one of the most rewarding aspects of the read.

Střelou successfully marries historical-style romance tropes with a paranormal, gothic twist that keeps the pacing tight and the suspense palpable. While Isadora’s questionable choices might test your nerves, they ultimately serve a purpose in a narrative about healing, brokenness, and the heavy price of loyalty.

Overall, The Broken and the Beautiful is a binge-worthy, beautifully tragic love story that lingers in your mind long after you turn the final page. It’s emotionally heavy, atmospheric, and anchored by a complex heroine you want to root for even when she's standing in her own way. Because of Střelou’s evocative writing style and ability to weave deep psychological wounds into a compelling genre mashup, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and will definitely consider picking up more books from this author in the future.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Ridzi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Netgally review. Like the others, I was sucked in and read it over an evening straight. Had to sit on it a day before the review so digest it all, the prose is heartbreakingly beautiful and the story engulfs you with curiosity in the best way.

Yays 👍
- the gothic, dark aura is so well done you can feel the bleariness of it all
- the author really understands trauma and how it manifests both as madness, stillness and lifelessness. They have conveyed this insight across the book
- the part about letting go and still having a full life was wonderful because so often stories of love don't talk about what happens when we move on and have lives that are beautiful despite our wounds
- the intrigue is real and unexpected, at least I wasn't expecting it
- the writing is beautifully delivered, I saw the author is a poet and it shows
- the main characters are given enough breathing space to develop and become who they are over time

Nays 👎
This is the unpopular opinion part and to be honest there was lot that left me asking for more. If it wasn't for the writing this would be a 3.5 for me. Also spoilers ahead so stop reading now if you're not into that

- Theo felt like a backup and Issy's lack of effort towards them left me wanting because he is such a heartwarming human who gives so much to everyone. Even till the end Issy's life and rituals are around Archie. Theo it seems always get's second billing and it genuinely feels unfair
- The situations and trauma inflicted on the characters of this story are era appropriate and real, but also feel like shock value at certain times. A sudden and horrific death of secondary character, a child no less, to illustrate something about the FMCs felt overdone in a book that already deals with a LOT of dark shit
- The book could have done with fewer distractions i.e. the part about Archie's dad felt forced and unreasonably forgiving towards someone cruel, and callous to the extend of actively causing harm. I saw no difference between him and Edward as people, which made the asymmetry even more stark
- Lastly, there is a level of implausibility in there with how accepting Issy's adopted family are of her erratic behaviour


Verdict 🪒
This is a good book, it's not great but the author has everything needed to create something great and you can see it. I recommend it because it introduces you to an amazing author who I think will only get better over time.

[Judy Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love triangle, Bridgerton vibes but darker

This is hands down my favourite book I’ve read this year so far, and definitely my favourite from this author.

What I loved:

• The writing style was beautiful without feeling overdone. Sometimes descriptive writing can get so heavy that it drags the story, but this didnt happen here at all. It almost had this poetic feel to it, and the way scenes were described made everything feel vivid and slightly haunting through the FMCs perspective, while still keeping the story moving.

• The pacing was really good. I never hit that point where I felt myself wanting to skim, and I genuinely kept wanting to know what was going to happen next.

• The storyline surprised me. I get really bored with books where you can basically map out the entire plot after the first few chapters, and this one wasnt like that at all - it kept me guessing!

• The love triangle was actually painful in the best way because I genuinely did not know who I wanted her with. Usually with love triangles theres always one obvious choice, but this one had me constantly changing sides.

• The Victorian setting felt convincing and immersive. The dialogue, the atmosphere, the social details, all of it felt authentic enough that it really pulled me in. Some gothic historical novels lack the authenticity and fall a bit flat, but this one truly had me transported.

What I didnt love:

• Honestly just that it seems to be a standalone because I would absolutely read a second book. It wraps up enough that I dont think one is coming, and I already miss it!

If you like darker romance, proper love triangles, historical settings, paranormal touches that are interesting without becoming too fantasy-heavy, and a plot that keeps shifting under you, I’d definitely recommend this.

Also the spice was done really well. There was enough of it, but it never felt thrown in for the sake of it. It actually matched the emotional build and the storyline, which made it work perfectly.

And if you are a little burnt out on romantasy books where everything revolves around war, battles, training scenes and endless combat, this was such a refreshing change. The tension here comes much more from the relationships, secrets, and emotional messiness, which for me made it way more addictive!

Five stars for sure!

[mrsandersonreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Isadora's parents die after a devastating illness, she is packed off to live with relatives. Immediately swept into the new season of balls and gatherings, and enduring torturous introductions in her aunt's scheme to have her married by the end of the season, Isadora must learn to navigate both her new normal and her grief at loss of her parents. She soon finds herself drawn to a mysterious and irresistible man, while also juggling the affections of another. Eerie gothic manors, grief, trauma and suspense are all combined with a slow burn romance in this fabulous gothic tale with hints of Pride and Prejudice and Bridgerton. Please be sure to check trigger warnings before reading as some heavy themes are discussed/utilized.

OK, so this book had me hooked. I couldn't put it down, and when I had too, I was still thinking about it. The characters are engaging and the setting is delicious - I love haunted manors, crumbling ruins and supernatural elements! I also love historical fantasy, so this book ticked all those boxes.

For this review I feel like I need to make a list of things I liked and the things I didn't like as I have too many thoughts!

What I Loved:
❤️The pacing - started slow and then ramped up - just how I like it!
❤️The storyline threw so many surprises at me - I really wasn't expecting the story to take so many of the turns it did
❤️The setting - all the locations combined with the Victorian vibes were just amazing
❤️The exploration of trauma and how it affects people was handled with sensitivity and understanding
❤️I was rooting for so many of the characters, I wanted pretty much everyone to have a happy ending!

What I Didn't Love:
💔I didn't like how Isadora treated Theodore for much of the book - he was lovely and deserved better
💔Everyone was very accepting and understanding of Isadora's behaviour and I don't feel like people would really be like this
💔Certain events were not given the dialogue I felt they deserved (saying no more because I try to be spoiler free)

All in all, I enjoyed this book - if you are a fan of love triangles, gothic settings and a slow burn romance taking in a period setting with supernatural elements, I urge you to give this book a go 💕

[Amy George · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Broken and the Beautiful completely consumed me. This book felt like stepping into a haunting gothic dream filled with grief, longing, beautiful decay, and the desperate search for healing.

If you love dark atmospheric stories with crumbling estates, whispered secrets, emotional trauma, and characters who feel deeply human and broken, this book absolutely delivers. The gothic setting was stunning and immersive, giving me major Bridgerton meets Phantom of the Opera vibes with a paranormal edge woven through the story.

Isadora was such a beautifully written character. She carries so much pain and loneliness, yet there is still this quiet hope inside her that clings to even the smallest glimpse of light. Watching her navigate her trauma and slowly begin to rediscover beauty, connection, and healing was heartbreaking and incredibly moving. I loved the message threaded throughout the story that while trauma shapes us, we cannot live trapped inside it forever. Healing is messy and painful, but there are still beautiful things worth reaching for.

And Theodore Westridge? A literal knight in shining armour. Theo was hands down my favourite character. Gentle, patient, caring, and somehow a light amongst so much darkness. I adored him.

Archie’s story absolutely broke my heart. There were so many moments in this book that carried such heavy emotion beneath the surface, and his story was one of the ones that stayed with me most.

I was able to guess a lot of the storyline fairly early on, but honestly, that did not take away from the beauty of this story at all. Sometimes you can see the heartbreak coming and it still destroys you anyway.

The atmosphere in this book was EVERYTHING. Harrowmoor Hall felt alive in the most eerie and tragic way, and the romance was slow burning, emotional, and filled with aching tension.

And Isadora continuing to dance in the snowflakes? That scene genuinely made me emotional 😢

This book is 100% my vibe. Dark, haunting, emotional, romantic, and beautifully tragic.

If you are looking for a standalone gothic paranormal romance with emotional depth, suspense, and gorgeous writing, absolutely pick this up.

[CamillaInChapters · Rating 5 out of 5]

“For I burn for you, Miss Blackwood, with a fire that would surely consume us both.”

I need to take a breath. I’ve spent the last 30% of this book completely broken. I didn’t expect it to move me the way it has. My dog has been watching me genuinely concerned the entire time.

It’s honestly taken a piece of my heart.

We’re in a period setting, following our FMC Isadora and her cousin as they attend their first social season in search of suitors. It’s been described as Bridgerton vibes, but it leans far more towards Wuthering Heights for me with its darker themes and those unrelenting gothic moors. As one of my favourite books, no complaints from me.

With a troubled past, Isadora is drawn to the shadows of Harrowmoor Hall and to two very different men.

Both MMCs are exceptional. The wilder, intense Mr Winter, all darkness over light, had my heart completely. Then there’s Theodore, our patient, supportive sunlight ☀️

If you tend to be drawn to the dark, the intense, and the slightly unhealthy in love, this one will hit you in places that take a while to recover from.

The pacing and the writing are stunning. I haven’t had such a strong emotional reaction to a book in a long time. It’s a tragedy, with a bittersweet ending I won't forget. There's not a moment I could put it down. The twists, the pain and heartache, just absolute perfection.

I’m not sure I’d have made the same choice as our FMC. Ugh. Just read it. With tissues and a rom com lined up for afterwards.

'Do not give your heart to a painter; they are restless souls, always seeking what cannot be reached, and they will depart as easily as the wind changes.'

The discovery of the painting origin at the end. Absolutely killed me. 💔

5 stars, without question.
I’m broken, still crying, and I suspect I’ll be unwell over this for days.

Thank you to the Author for writing such a beautiful book and Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Broken and the Beautiful feels like stepping into a candlelit ballroom where every polished surface hides a bruise, every whispered introduction carries a shadow, and every heartbeat seems to echo with something unsaid. It’s lush, gothic, and quietly devastating—the kind of historical romance that wears its elegance like silk but lets the darkness pool underneath.

Isadora is a beautifully drawn heroine, all soft strength and buried hurt. Orphaned, disinherited, and pushed into society’s glittering parade of soirées and suitors, she moves through the season like someone watching life from behind glass. That sense of displacement—of being present but not truly seen—gives the novel its emotional pulse. And while Mr. Theodore Westridge offers the sort of gentle steadiness she’s been denied, it’s the pull of Harrowmoor Hall that truly captivates.

The house is a character in its own right: eerie, aching, and steeped in a sorrow that mirrors Isadora’s own. Her fascination with the mysterious painter who once lived there feels like a thread tugging her toward something inevitable and ruinous. There’s a delicious gothic yearning woven through these pages—the kind that feels both romantic and dangerous, where desire becomes a doorway to unraveling.

The novel balances its influences beautifully: the social sparkle of Bridgerton, the emotional ache of Wuthering Heights, the theatrical melancholy of The Phantom of the Opera. Yet it never feels derivative. Instead, it becomes a tragic love story that leans into the beauty of broken things, the way trauma shapes longing, and the cost of choosing passion over safety.

It’s atmospheric, haunting, and gorgeously tragic—a story that lingers like perfume on silk, equal parts tenderness and ruin.

With thanks to J Strelou, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Ashie Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Broken and the Beautiful feels like a love letter to the soft gothic girlies who grew up in the 90-00’s. A hauntingly romantic story that absolutely devastates you in the best way possible. With a nod to books and film such as Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Phantom of the Opera, Sleepy Hollow, Wuthering Heights, Bridgerton and Crimson Peak, it is the perfect book to add to your spooky season TBR.

There is nothing more I love in a book than an old, eerie haunted house that feels like a character itself and Harrowmoor Hall delivers. This book was so rich with description that you are sucked in and feel as if you are there in the moment. It is just so beautifully written, you can tell that this was a project of love for J. Strelou. She has said that this story took a part of her soul and it is absolutely evident. This book will shatter your heart and put the pieces back together leaving a single shard out. I could physically feel the pain of these characters and still a day later am on the verge of weeping for them. Typically I don’t reach for a love triangle trope but this is hands down the best one I have read. It is impossible not to fall in love with these characters, even the side characters take a part of your heart. This is the first book I have read by J. Strelou but it has made me want to read everything she’s ever written immediately. The attention to detail, the way she brings the pain and trauma to life and off the page should be studied. I honestly cannot rave about this book more, it’s incredible and a high contender for the best book I’ve read this year.

I received an ARC from NetGalley of this book and I am incredibly grateful, thank you!

[Ashley Myers · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

I'm really not even sure where to start with this one, honestly. Did I hate this book? No. Did I love this book? Also, no.

This one is tough because there were times when I absolutely could not stop reading because I was so invested in what was happening. And then the FMC would do something incredibly selfish and stupid, and suddenly, I was no longer invested because I was so frustrated with her. It really became quite problematic.

Like, girl, you're really going to throw away a perfectly good relationship with a kind, patient, and HOT dude for a GHOST who can offer you literally nothing? Don't get me wrong, a ghost romance can absolutely be done in a way that makes me root for the ghost, but this was not it. Not to mention, she's barely even gotten to know this ghost and is already obsessed with him because of a painting he did? I just had a really hard time getting behind that aspect of the story.

That being said, I did love the gothic Bridgerton vibes this book had, and I absolutely loved Theo (the non-ghost MMC who honestly deserves a trophy for what he put up with). I also really enjoyed Ichabod's character, and ultimately, I was happy with how everything wrapped up.

In the end, this was a bit of a mixed bag for me. There were things I really enjoyed, but the FMC's decisions made it difficult for me to fully connect with the story. I'm glad I read it, but I definitely had some frustrations along the way. Would I recommend it? I'm honestly not sure. I think there is an audience this book may really appeal to, but I feel that everyone will be frustrated at some point with the FMC and her choices.

[Emma Davies · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing this advance reader copy.

I had fairly mixed feelings about this book; I would rate it 2.5/5 because I felt very 50/50 about it. I actually enjoyed the first half much more than the second half; I really liked the Regency-era setting, the gothic atmosphere and the relationship between Isadora and Arabella. The mystery surrounding Mr Winters was intriguing at first, and I enjoyed trying to piece together who he really was.

However, after more revelations came to light and the progression of the main romance, the story lost me a little. I could appreciate the emotional connection between the characters at first, especially the way they helped each other through loneliness and emotional hardship. However, as the main relationship deepened, I found aspects of it a little problematic and unsettling, and I think readers who enjoy darker gothic romance and supernatural elements will probably connect with this more than I did.

I was also far more invested in Theodore than I expected to be. It felt like the story wanted me to root for Mr Winters, but I was rooting for Theodore instead, which made some of Isadora’s choices frustrating. Although I was happy with Isadora’s ending, I couldn’t help but feel that Theodore deserved better.

I think this book has a very specific audience, and I can see fans of gothic romances enjoying it more than I did. For me, it ended up being an interesting concept that didn’t fully work for me personally, despite a strong start and an atmosphere I really enjoyed. Overall, I’d describe it as Bridgerton meets Wuthering Heights with a touch of The Phantom of the Opera.

[cait ʚ♡⃛ɞ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m finding it quite difficult to put my feelings about this story into words.

Firstly, a huge thank you to J. Střelou for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book.

I was absolutely captivated within the first few chapters. The mystery surrounding many of the characters immediately drew me in, and the Regency-era setting combined with the gothic atmosphere created such an immersive reading experience. It pulled me in far more than I anticipated and, honestly, made me want to prolong finishing the book because I was enjoying it so much.

I found the chapters well-paced, easy to follow, and filled with characters that were largely very likeable. There were a few characters I struggled to form a strong connection with, and at times I couldn’t quite understand or predict some of the choices they made. However, I don’t think that took away from my enjoyment of the story or my appreciation of the author’s writing.

What stood out most to me was the overall premise. The plot was engaging, layered with intrigue, and delivered several twists that genuinely caught me by surprise. Every time I thought I had things figured out, the story managed to shift in a direction I wasn’t expecting.

I’ve settled on a 4-star rating purely because of how much I enjoyed the experience of reading it. It was one of those books that I was constantly looking forward to picking back up, and I never felt like I was forcing myself through it.

I think J. Střelou shows a lot of promise as a New Zealand indie author, and I’m genuinely excited to see where her writing journey takes her and can’t wait to read more of her work

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars <3 (Goodreads please im begging you to do .5s)

I was so lucky to receive an advanced digital copy of The Broken and the Beautiful by J. Strelou and upon receiving I also found out that my name is in the acknowledgements of this book which had me bawling. Thank you so much Julia!

Think Bridgerton, but darker, gothic, love triangle, yearning fmc vibes. Think Phantom of the Opera meets Pride and Prejudice. I absolutely flew through this book. It’s one of those stories where you keep telling yourself “just one more chapter” and suddenly it’s 1am.

I adored the writing SO much! It was so beautiful and poetic, with some incredibly heart-wrenching quotes, and I think it’s a huge testament to Julia and how much she has grown as a writer. All of the characters had such incredible depth that I became attached to them almost immediately and found myself thinking about them even when I wasn’t reading. The love triangle was devastatingly beautiful and genuinely emotional, and there were multiple moments that had me crying.

This story does deal with some darker themes, but I thought they were handled really well. It never felt overly graphic just for shock value, and underneath all the gothic romance there’s actually quite a beautiful healing journey woven through the story. The entire book is filled with longing, grief, obsession, and that horrible yet beautiful ache of wanting something that always feels just out of reach (oh hey there are the tears again).

Overall, this was moody, emotional, romantic, and the only love triangle I will accept! Definitely recommend it if you want a gothic romance that’s immersive without feeling overwhelming.

Thank you so much again to Julia for the ARC!

[Zaho ZZ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from NetGalley

I want to thank the author who kindly send me a copy of this book, I really enjoyed my read and would highly recommand it (just check up the trigger warnings beforehands)

it's a gothic story about an orphaned young lady with hidden traumas, who became obsessed with a mansion and more specifically of its art and embarks on an adventure to discover why these paintings are hunting her, set in a victorian era

what I liked:

the setting and the atmospher: it was done well, it's perfect for fall and winter reads, the author has done a good job in her descriptions to the point where I felt transported to the moors with our characters
the characters: were done well, especially the FMC and the 2 MMC without spoilters,
it was an easy read that kept me at the edge of my seat because of the its mystery
I was a little bit on the fence in the middle about our love triangle, but the ending was satisfying

what I didn't like:
eventhought the writing was easy to follow, however, it wasn't my favorite style, I get why the author has chosen this type of writting that fits the time period but I didn't like it, but not to the point to alter my reading experience
I wish the other characters were more fleshed out as the main 3, some of them were two dimensional especially the priest, without spoiler, I wanted more from him
it's not a spicy book, but there were a couple of weird spicy scenes, that I was side eying

overall I enjoyed the book and would try other works by this author

[Lex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved The Broken and Beautiful! I devoured it in one day and was still reading into the early hours because I couldn’t put it down and who needs sleep when you need to know how it ends and are completely hooked! It had me at Bridgerton meets Phantom of the Opera!

I related to Isadora so much, and her journey felt so raw, emotional and beautifully written. The love triangle had me completely invested and I adored the paranormal elements woven through the story. It was the perfect mix of heartbreak, mystery, romance and magic. Such a beautiful read that I am still thinking about and will definately reread and get a physical trophy when out.

Tropes/For those who love:

Paranormal romance
love triangles
emotionally damaged / complex characters
“broken girl” healing journeys
mystery and supernatural secrets
dark academia / gothic vibes
found family and deep emotional bonds
slow-burn tension
haunting small-town atmosphere
emotional angst with romance woven through it

It’s perfect for readers who love emotional paranormal romance with a strong female lead they can deeply relate to. If you enjoy stories with messy feelings, yearning, supernatural twists, and a touch of darkness and beauty intertwined, this book really hits. It especially suits readers who love books that feel immersive and addictive enough to stay up way too late finishing “just one more chapter.” Thanks so much for the e-arc and for the author for writing it!

[Holly Annaleisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Broken and the Beautiful was such a beautifully atmospheric and emotional read. I loved the supernatural elements and haunting mystery throughout, but Isadora’s journey was what really got me. Watching her carry so much grief, trauma and loss while slowly learning how to heal was beautifully done, and I didn’t realise quite how attached I’d become to her story until the end.

And then there’s Mr Winters. 🖤 Without giving anything away, this man completely stole my heart. I’m always a sucker for the mysterious, brooding and complicated ones, but there was something about him that hit me especially hard. Theodore is sweet, charming and genuinely wonderful, but Mr Winters had this intensity and aching quality that made it impossible not to become invested. The yearning genuinely HURT, and all I wanted was for these characters to get the happiness they deserved.

I genuinely thought this was going to be a four-star read because my heart desperately wanted certain things from the ending... then I finished it and cried. 😭 How could I give anything less than five stars to a book that made me feel THAT much? It was haunting, romantic, heartbreaking and beautiful all at once, with so much love, grief and longing woven through it. I finished with tears in my eyes and that horrible little ache you get when you’re just not ready to leave a story behind.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Gabriella Bryant · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️

This was such a great, spooky standalone with the perfect paranormal and gothic atmosphere for the upcoming spooky season. The writing was incredibly atmospheric, and the setting was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book: part gothic, part regency drama and part paranormal love story. I loved the mystery woven throughout the story and really enjoyed the overall vibe.

I’ll be honest, though — it was a bit slow for me to get into. That could absolutely have been a me problem, but for the longest time, I also wasn't quite sure who our FMC was supposed to be interested in and it was disorienting. Once things started coming together, though, I found myself enjoying the story much more. It was a genuinely good story with some great quotes and a beautifully haunting romance.

And the yearning in this book was truly next level. And while there is a happily ever after, it is only barely one. The ending definitely felt very bittersweet. There were also two spicy scenes, but can be easily skipped without sacrificing plot.

Overall, if you're looking for a beautiful, atmospheric paranormal regency romance with gothic vibes and a spooky mystery, I think this would make a great spooky season read.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and J. Strelou for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!

[larissa jara · Rating 5 out of 5]

⋆.𐙚 5/5 (five stars cannot describe how good this was)

▹ slow burn gothic romance
▹ only love triangle I accept
▹ yearning fmc
▹ ”fuck” moment

I appreciate honesty, so I will be completely honest with you:

WHAT A MASTERPIECE. A true piece of art. It touched my heart, completely destroyed me and somehow fixed me back together and in the end let me spill out all of my feelings.

It has been a long time since I have read a book filled with so much emotion and such an interesting plot. I couldn’t stop reading, and I also never knew what was going to happen on the next page.

The use of words felt like art. I especially loved the use of metaphors and stylistic devices used throughout the story to convey so many emotions so wonderfully.
This book was neither too short nor too long, the pacing felt just right. It gave enough time to let me get a feeling for the characters and connect with them. Really well done.

› ”You are the sun and yet also the moon. My day starts and ends with your reminder.” ‹

I feel genuinely blessed to have found this book (or better this book found me) and I insist that this is a must-read!

Thank you so much!

(Review of advance copy received from NetGalley)

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Broken and The Beautiful is a stunning blend of historical Austen-esque vibes and haunting gothic romance.

It is a story that reminds us that even the most broken of us deserve to be loved.

I saw myself in a lot of this book and I think that is why I fell so in love with it. That and the stunning prose and historical settings, I really felt like I was transported in to this world and living alongside its characters.

Isadora loses her parents to consumption and is sent to live with her aunt and uncle where she is sent out into society with her cousin to find suitable husbands. The way that women had to live back in those days was so well written and so respectfully written, I really felt for these girls and the pressures that were put on them to find a husband who could provide for their families.

The supernatural aspects of this story were so well done, so wonderfully woven in to the story, I felt my heart aching and breaking and being put back together all at once. It felt both haunting and hopeful and I was enamoured by this book.

This is a truly beautiful story and beautiful writing and it definitely deserves a spot on the tbr.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me an arc to review

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not your average regency romance. This story had my heart, from the vivid imagery that makes you feel as though you are right there on the moors with Isadora, to the beautifully gentle journey of healing she goes on.
Our main character, Isadora, goes from a blissfully happy childhood and is plunged into tragic circumstances. Being shipped off to stay with her Aunt, Uncle and Cousin, she soon finds that the priorities of life are very different in this household and she is shoved onto the marriage mart. But with everything that has happened she simply isn't ready.
Strelou clearly excels with characterisation and the atmosphere was brilliantly gothic. This would be excellent read for the autumn!
My only complaint is the voice of the story fell away at the heightened emotional point, which did bump me out of the world a little bit, but I was enjoying the story itself that much, I was very much willing to overlook it.
The pacing is perfect, I struggled to put this story down at points!
If you are someone who needs to check content warnings, I would make sure you do with this one. Everyone has a back story and they aren't all shiny.

Thank you to NetGally for enabling me to read an advanced copy.