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Bane Bloom
Not yet published
Expected 6 Oct 26A botanical illustrator in Victorian England uncovers a country garden’s secrets in a fantastical novel of dark enchantments by the author of Tea & Alchemy.
In 1850, Catherine Gray, a botanical illustrator from London, travels to a remote estate in the Lake District to catalog and paint the specimens thriving in a mysterious glasshouse garden. The most bewildering find is a water lily that somehow alters its appearance. Nearly as puzzling is Thomas Bane, the brooding groundskeeper, who closely guards the estate’s secrets—including the disappearance of Catherine’s predecessor.
The mystery deepens when Catherine discovers the diary of Prudence Bane, Thomas’s late mother, which contains revelations about the odd flora and its hold on a family touched by madness. The more she uncovers, the more the line between fantasy and reality—and superstition and fact—begins to blur.
Unable to trust her own thoughts, Catherine draws closer to Thomas, her only anchor in this strange place. But even he can’t fully protect her from the house and his otherworldly family. Only Catherine can break the Bane family’s cycle of heartbreak…but first she’ll have to confront her own.
In 1850, Catherine Gray, a botanical illustrator from London, travels to a remote estate in the Lake District to catalog and paint the specimens thriving in a mysterious glasshouse garden. The most bewildering find is a water lily that somehow alters its appearance. Nearly as puzzling is Thomas Bane, the brooding groundskeeper, who closely guards the estate’s secrets—including the disappearance of Catherine’s predecessor.
The mystery deepens when Catherine discovers the diary of Prudence Bane, Thomas’s late mother, which contains revelations about the odd flora and its hold on a family touched by madness. The more she uncovers, the more the line between fantasy and reality—and superstition and fact—begins to blur.
Unable to trust her own thoughts, Catherine draws closer to Thomas, her only anchor in this strange place. But even he can’t fully protect her from the house and his otherworldly family. Only Catherine can break the Bane family’s cycle of heartbreak…but first she’ll have to confront her own.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 6, 2026
About the author
Sharon Lynn Fisher
16 books784 followersSharon Lynn Fisher writes mash-ups of fantasy, mystery, and slow-burn romance set in lush and atmospheric worlds. Her current series of stand-alone novels (which began with Salt & Broom) features cozy gothic fantasies set in Victorian England.
Sharon's other books include Grimm Curiosities, Tea & Alchemy, the Faery Rehistory historical romantasy series, and a trio of science fiction romances. Sharon is an Amazon bestselling author.
When Sharon's not writing, you'll mostly find her wandering the Pacific Northwest woods looking for fairies and mushrooms.
For more information about Sharon and her writing, visit www.sharonlynnfisher.com.
Sharon's other books include Grimm Curiosities, Tea & Alchemy, the Faery Rehistory historical romantasy series, and a trio of science fiction romances. Sharon is an Amazon bestselling author.
When Sharon's not writing, you'll mostly find her wandering the Pacific Northwest woods looking for fairies and mushrooms.
For more information about Sharon and her writing, visit www.sharonlynnfisher.com.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Una fantasía cozy y oscura llena de hadas, plantas, y un romance dulce
Puntuación: 4.25 ⭐
Muchas gracias a la autora, 47North, y NetGalley por permitirme leer una copia adelantada de este libro. Las opiniones que leerán son mías y solo mías.
Este es el primer libro que leo de la autora, pero puedo asegurar que no será el último. Sus personajes, su forma de escribir, y esa mezcla de botánica y folkclore me atraparon totalmente.
Desde los primeros capítulos ya sabía que Catherine, la protagonista, iba a gustarme mucho y no me decepcionó. Es de esas mujeres capaces e inteligentes que hacen lo necesario para alcanzar sus metas. Tiene una mezcla entre romanticismo y pragmatismo que le da más profundidad a su personalidad. Aunque al inicio parece segura de sí misma, se van desvelando sus conflictos internos y cómo los va afrontando. En ese sentido, disfruté mucho la evolución de su percepción sobre su madre. Además, no duele ver a una protagonista de 30 años, "vieja" para los estándares de la época, moverse por la sociedad que, hasta cierto punto, la mantiene marginada.
La autora agregó capítulos cortos desde el punto de vista de Thomas, el interés amoroso de la novela. Las primeras apariciones de su POV me parecieron precipitadas, porque desvelaban desde muy temprano muchos aspectos sobre los misterios de la historia. Sin embargo, incluso así, la autora se guardó algunos ases bajo la manga para sorprendernos en algunos casos, y en otros, para dejar que el lector llegara a sus propias conclusiones antes de que se revelaran.
Disfruté mucho la forma de escribir de la autora. Su pluma se ajusta al período histórico que narra, lo que le da más vividez al ambiente por el que se mueve la protagonista. Además, sus descripciones de las partes más "salvajes" de Gran Bretaña, en especial de su flora y sus costumbres, acentúan aún más ese aspecto rústico pero cozy que predominan en la historia. Dicho esto, para alguien como yo que no tiene idea de plantas (y que ni siquiera puede salvar un cactus aunque su vida dependa de ello), las constantes referencias a flores y plantas pueden resultar demasiado.
La autora logra que lo oscuro se vuelva cómodo. Me imaginaba todo el tiempo paisajes etéreos y cargados de tensión donde lo real y lo fantástico confluyen. La unión de la botánica con el flokclore de las hadas, incluso la representación visual que la protagonista aporta con las descripciones de sus ilustraciones, crean una atmósfera increíble.
Todo el grueso de la historia sucede en el rango de unos días, tal vez una semana. En ese período suceden muchas cosas, incluyendo el desarrollo del romance y la revelación de secretos y misterios. Sin embargo, aunque poco creíble en la realidad, personalmente no me disgustó el poco tiempo en el que transcurre la historia con todo lo que sucede. Eso sí, el final me resultó un poco precipitado. Al menos a mí, una de las resoluciones del conflicto me pareció una suposición de los protagonistas, más que una confirmación explícita. Creo que al menos un capítulo más le hubiera venido bien para dar un cierre más redondo a la historia.
Bane Bloom es sin dudas el inicio de mi trayecto con esta autora y, si te gustan las historias de hadas un poco oscuras, pero también acogedoras, entonces te recomiendo seguir mi ejemplo.
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A cozy, dark fantasy filled with fairies, plants, and a sweet romance
Rating: 4.25 ⭐
Many thanks to the author, 47North, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book. The opinions you’ll read are mine and mine alone.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but I can assure you it won’t be the last. Her characters, her writing style, and that blend of botany and folklore completely captivated me.
From the very first chapters, I knew I was going to really like Catherine, the protagonist, and she didn’t disappoint me. She’s one of those capable, intelligent women who does whatever it takes to achieve her goals. She has a blend of romanticism and pragmatism that adds depth to her personality. Although she seems self-assured at first, her internal conflicts are gradually revealed, along with how she deals with them. In that sense, I really enjoyed seeing how her perception of her mother evolved. Plus, it’s refreshing to see a 30-year-old protagonist—considered “old” by the standards of the time—navigate a society that, to a certain extent, marginalizes her.
The author included short chapters from the perspective of Thomas, the novel’s love interest. I found the first appearances of his POV to be rushed, because they revealed many aspects of the story’s mysteries too early on. However, even so, the author kept a few tricks up her sleeve to surprise us in some cases, and in others, to let the reader reach their own conclusions before they were revealed.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. Her prose fits the historical period she’s depicting, which brings the setting in which the protagonist moves to life. Furthermore, her descriptions of the “wildest” parts of Great Britain—especially its flora and customs—further accentuate that rustic yet cozy atmosphere that permeates the story. That said, for someone like me who knows nothing about plants (and who couldn’t even save a cactus if my life depended on it), the constant references to flowers and plants can be a bit much.
The author manages to make the dark feel comforting. I kept picturing ethereal, tension-filled landscapes where the real and the fantastical converge. The combination of botany and fairy folklore—including the visual imagery the protagonist brings to life through her descriptions of the illustrations—creates an incredible atmosphere.
The bulk of the story takes place over the course of a few days, perhaps a week. A lot happens during that time, including the development of the romance and the revelation of secrets and mysteries. However, although it’s not very believable in real life, I personally didn’t mind the short timeframe in which the story unfolds, given everything that happens. That said, I found the ending a bit rushed. At least to me, one of the resolutions to the conflict seemed more like an assumption on the part of the protagonists than an explicit confirmation. I think at least one more chapter would have been nice to give the story a more satisfying conclusion.
"Bane Bloom" is undoubtedly the start of my journey with this author, and if you like fairy tales that are a bit dark but also heartwarming, then I recommend following my lead.
Puntuación: 4.25 ⭐
Muchas gracias a la autora, 47North, y NetGalley por permitirme leer una copia adelantada de este libro. Las opiniones que leerán son mías y solo mías.
Este es el primer libro que leo de la autora, pero puedo asegurar que no será el último. Sus personajes, su forma de escribir, y esa mezcla de botánica y folkclore me atraparon totalmente.
Desde los primeros capítulos ya sabía que Catherine, la protagonista, iba a gustarme mucho y no me decepcionó. Es de esas mujeres capaces e inteligentes que hacen lo necesario para alcanzar sus metas. Tiene una mezcla entre romanticismo y pragmatismo que le da más profundidad a su personalidad. Aunque al inicio parece segura de sí misma, se van desvelando sus conflictos internos y cómo los va afrontando. En ese sentido, disfruté mucho la evolución de su percepción sobre su madre. Además, no duele ver a una protagonista de 30 años, "vieja" para los estándares de la época, moverse por la sociedad que, hasta cierto punto, la mantiene marginada.
La autora agregó capítulos cortos desde el punto de vista de Thomas, el interés amoroso de la novela. Las primeras apariciones de su POV me parecieron precipitadas, porque desvelaban desde muy temprano muchos aspectos sobre los misterios de la historia. Sin embargo, incluso así, la autora se guardó algunos ases bajo la manga para sorprendernos en algunos casos, y en otros, para dejar que el lector llegara a sus propias conclusiones antes de que se revelaran.
Disfruté mucho la forma de escribir de la autora. Su pluma se ajusta al período histórico que narra, lo que le da más vividez al ambiente por el que se mueve la protagonista. Además, sus descripciones de las partes más "salvajes" de Gran Bretaña, en especial de su flora y sus costumbres, acentúan aún más ese aspecto rústico pero cozy que predominan en la historia. Dicho esto, para alguien como yo que no tiene idea de plantas (y que ni siquiera puede salvar un cactus aunque su vida dependa de ello), las constantes referencias a flores y plantas pueden resultar demasiado.
La autora logra que lo oscuro se vuelva cómodo. Me imaginaba todo el tiempo paisajes etéreos y cargados de tensión donde lo real y lo fantástico confluyen. La unión de la botánica con el flokclore de las hadas, incluso la representación visual que la protagonista aporta con las descripciones de sus ilustraciones, crean una atmósfera increíble.
Todo el grueso de la historia sucede en el rango de unos días, tal vez una semana. En ese período suceden muchas cosas, incluyendo el desarrollo del romance y la revelación de secretos y misterios. Sin embargo, aunque poco creíble en la realidad, personalmente no me disgustó el poco tiempo en el que transcurre la historia con todo lo que sucede. Eso sí, el final me resultó un poco precipitado. Al menos a mí, una de las resoluciones del conflicto me pareció una suposición de los protagonistas, más que una confirmación explícita. Creo que al menos un capítulo más le hubiera venido bien para dar un cierre más redondo a la historia.
Bane Bloom es sin dudas el inicio de mi trayecto con esta autora y, si te gustan las historias de hadas un poco oscuras, pero también acogedoras, entonces te recomiendo seguir mi ejemplo.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A cozy, dark fantasy filled with fairies, plants, and a sweet romance
Rating: 4.25 ⭐
Many thanks to the author, 47North, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book. The opinions you’ll read are mine and mine alone.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but I can assure you it won’t be the last. Her characters, her writing style, and that blend of botany and folklore completely captivated me.
From the very first chapters, I knew I was going to really like Catherine, the protagonist, and she didn’t disappoint me. She’s one of those capable, intelligent women who does whatever it takes to achieve her goals. She has a blend of romanticism and pragmatism that adds depth to her personality. Although she seems self-assured at first, her internal conflicts are gradually revealed, along with how she deals with them. In that sense, I really enjoyed seeing how her perception of her mother evolved. Plus, it’s refreshing to see a 30-year-old protagonist—considered “old” by the standards of the time—navigate a society that, to a certain extent, marginalizes her.
The author included short chapters from the perspective of Thomas, the novel’s love interest. I found the first appearances of his POV to be rushed, because they revealed many aspects of the story’s mysteries too early on. However, even so, the author kept a few tricks up her sleeve to surprise us in some cases, and in others, to let the reader reach their own conclusions before they were revealed.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. Her prose fits the historical period she’s depicting, which brings the setting in which the protagonist moves to life. Furthermore, her descriptions of the “wildest” parts of Great Britain—especially its flora and customs—further accentuate that rustic yet cozy atmosphere that permeates the story. That said, for someone like me who knows nothing about plants (and who couldn’t even save a cactus if my life depended on it), the constant references to flowers and plants can be a bit much.
The author manages to make the dark feel comforting. I kept picturing ethereal, tension-filled landscapes where the real and the fantastical converge. The combination of botany and fairy folklore—including the visual imagery the protagonist brings to life through her descriptions of the illustrations—creates an incredible atmosphere.
The bulk of the story takes place over the course of a few days, perhaps a week. A lot happens during that time, including the development of the romance and the revelation of secrets and mysteries. However, although it’s not very believable in real life, I personally didn’t mind the short timeframe in which the story unfolds, given everything that happens. That said, I found the ending a bit rushed. At least to me, one of the resolutions to the conflict seemed more like an assumption on the part of the protagonists than an explicit confirmation. I think at least one more chapter would have been nice to give the story a more satisfying conclusion.
"Bane Bloom" is undoubtedly the start of my journey with this author, and if you like fairy tales that are a bit dark but also heartwarming, then I recommend following my lead.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have long been a fan of Sharon Lynn Fisher’s cozy Gothic fantasies (Salt & Broom, Grimm Curiosities, Tea & Alchemy) and I was thrilled to find Bane Bloom just as phenomenal! The novel begins with the mysterious diary entries of Charles Carroll, an apothecary from the London Society who has been sent to the Lake District catalogue the specimens in Arthur Banes’s Pine Cottage. After Mr. Carroll loses his grip on reality and disappears, Catherine Gray, a young woman with an interest in botany and a talent for illustration take up his cataloguing work in exchange for becoming an apprentice apothecary. Catherine has grown up with an artist for a father, and her trip to the north may help secure their future, but when she arrives in the country and meets Thomas Bane, Arthur’s grandson and the groundskeeper for the property, Catherine’s careful plans begin to unravel. Thomas is no ordinary man, and his taciturn behavior harbors a series of dark secrets. Nevertheless, an attraction between Thomas and Catherine is undeniable, and much of the novel centers on the complexities of their growing relationship as Catherine learns the secrets of Pine Cottage.
The titular Bane Bloom, an elusive shape-shifting flower that has the power to grant your heart’s desire, is the key to the Pine Cottage mystery and explains the tie between Thomas and the surrounding land. Madness, folklore, superstition, and witchcraft permeate the story, and Fisher’s admiration for both the benevolent and malevolent plants (hyacinths, foxglove, and bluebells sit side by side with mandrake, hellebore, and belladonna) fill her sentences with luscious scent and eye-catching beauty. As always, her landscapes are meticulously researched, and although I have never been to the Lake District, I felt like I was wandering among the becks and fells as I turned each page. Bane Bloom perfectly blends a real world setting with frightening touches of fairy magic, and I delighted in learning about kelpies, nokken, and wodewose. The tone leans Gothic and explores serious themes like abandonment, loneliness, and isolation, but beneath it all is a strain of beauty and a reverence for the natural world as the village participates in celebrations to welcome the spring.
Fisher’s prose especially sings when she is exploring the relationship between Catherine and Thomas. Although the book is told primarily from Catherine’s point of view, a few chapters allow Thomas to tell his own story, and the blend of both voices helps the reader feel more invested in their courtship. The romance between Catherine and Thomas is a slow burn, but it is also quite sensual since both characters stand somewhat outside the gendered and social expectations of Victorian society. The ups and downs of their relationship will make readers swoon, and the mystery of how they will discover their happily ever after is as intriguing as the mystery of the Bane Bloom.
If you love beautifully crafted explorations of nature, folklore, and romantic relationships, you will adore Bane Bloom! I loved it!
The titular Bane Bloom, an elusive shape-shifting flower that has the power to grant your heart’s desire, is the key to the Pine Cottage mystery and explains the tie between Thomas and the surrounding land. Madness, folklore, superstition, and witchcraft permeate the story, and Fisher’s admiration for both the benevolent and malevolent plants (hyacinths, foxglove, and bluebells sit side by side with mandrake, hellebore, and belladonna) fill her sentences with luscious scent and eye-catching beauty. As always, her landscapes are meticulously researched, and although I have never been to the Lake District, I felt like I was wandering among the becks and fells as I turned each page. Bane Bloom perfectly blends a real world setting with frightening touches of fairy magic, and I delighted in learning about kelpies, nokken, and wodewose. The tone leans Gothic and explores serious themes like abandonment, loneliness, and isolation, but beneath it all is a strain of beauty and a reverence for the natural world as the village participates in celebrations to welcome the spring.
Fisher’s prose especially sings when she is exploring the relationship between Catherine and Thomas. Although the book is told primarily from Catherine’s point of view, a few chapters allow Thomas to tell his own story, and the blend of both voices helps the reader feel more invested in their courtship. The romance between Catherine and Thomas is a slow burn, but it is also quite sensual since both characters stand somewhat outside the gendered and social expectations of Victorian society. The ups and downs of their relationship will make readers swoon, and the mystery of how they will discover their happily ever after is as intriguing as the mystery of the Bane Bloom.
If you love beautifully crafted explorations of nature, folklore, and romantic relationships, you will adore Bane Bloom! I loved it!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Bane Bloom is an atmospheric blend of cozy gothic mystery, botanical folklore, and slow burn romance that immediately pulled me in.
The opening chapters were easily my favorite. An isolated estate in the Lake District, an enigmatic groundskeeper, a mysterious glasshouse, and a botanical illustrator determined to uncover its secrets made for an irresistible premise. The creeping sense of unease is wonderfully done, and I loved following Catherine as she slowly peeled back the layers of the Bane family's history. The setting feels almost like a character itself, lush, haunting, and steeped in secrets.
Thomas was undoubtedly the standout for me. Beneath his reserved exterior is a deeply compelling character whose quiet devotion and internal conflict made him impossible not to root for. His relationship with Catherine develops through shared trust, vulnerability, and mutual respect, making their romance feel earned amidst the uncertainty surrounding them.
I also really appreciated the novel's exploration of longing, sacrifice, and the cost of pursuing our deepest desires. Those themes are woven throughout the story and gave the mystery an emotional depth that kept me invested.
Where the book lost a little momentum for me was in the latter half. As the scope expanded, it shifted away from the intimate gothic mystery that initially captivated me into a broader fantasy and romance narrative. While that direction will absolutely work for some readers, I found myself missing the quieter, more contained atmosphere of the beginning.
The final 20% also moved much faster than the rest of the novel. After such a deliberately paced buildup, the sequence of events raced toward the conclusion, leaving several major developments to unfold in quick succession. Combined with a few plot turns that felt like they were included to neatly secure a particular ending, the resolution didn't have quite the same organic feel as the journey that led there. Even so, I was still content with where the story ultimately ended. It was more the pace of getting there that left me wanting a little more room to breathe.
One thing I found myself wishing for throughout the novel was the inclusion of Catherine's botanical illustrations. The descriptions of the plants and her work as an illustrator were so vivid that I would have absolutely loved to see some of her sketches woven into the pages. I think they would have made an already immersive reading experience even richer.
Overall, Bane Bloom was a fun, page-turning read that's easy to follow. This was my first book by the author, and while this one didn't completely land for me, I had a great time and it absolutely left me intrigued to pick up more of her work. If her other novels capture the same atmospheric writing and sense of wonder, I'll happily be back for another.
Thank you to NetGalley and 47North for the opportunity to read this ARC.
The opening chapters were easily my favorite. An isolated estate in the Lake District, an enigmatic groundskeeper, a mysterious glasshouse, and a botanical illustrator determined to uncover its secrets made for an irresistible premise. The creeping sense of unease is wonderfully done, and I loved following Catherine as she slowly peeled back the layers of the Bane family's history. The setting feels almost like a character itself, lush, haunting, and steeped in secrets.
Thomas was undoubtedly the standout for me. Beneath his reserved exterior is a deeply compelling character whose quiet devotion and internal conflict made him impossible not to root for. His relationship with Catherine develops through shared trust, vulnerability, and mutual respect, making their romance feel earned amidst the uncertainty surrounding them.
I also really appreciated the novel's exploration of longing, sacrifice, and the cost of pursuing our deepest desires. Those themes are woven throughout the story and gave the mystery an emotional depth that kept me invested.
Where the book lost a little momentum for me was in the latter half. As the scope expanded, it shifted away from the intimate gothic mystery that initially captivated me into a broader fantasy and romance narrative. While that direction will absolutely work for some readers, I found myself missing the quieter, more contained atmosphere of the beginning.
The final 20% also moved much faster than the rest of the novel. After such a deliberately paced buildup, the sequence of events raced toward the conclusion, leaving several major developments to unfold in quick succession. Combined with a few plot turns that felt like they were included to neatly secure a particular ending, the resolution didn't have quite the same organic feel as the journey that led there. Even so, I was still content with where the story ultimately ended. It was more the pace of getting there that left me wanting a little more room to breathe.
One thing I found myself wishing for throughout the novel was the inclusion of Catherine's botanical illustrations. The descriptions of the plants and her work as an illustrator were so vivid that I would have absolutely loved to see some of her sketches woven into the pages. I think they would have made an already immersive reading experience even richer.
Overall, Bane Bloom was a fun, page-turning read that's easy to follow. This was my first book by the author, and while this one didn't completely land for me, I had a great time and it absolutely left me intrigued to pick up more of her work. If her other novels capture the same atmospheric writing and sense of wonder, I'll happily be back for another.
Thank you to NetGalley and 47North for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Bane Bloom by Sharon Lynn Fisher is a whimsical tale about the magic of finding the place you belong in.
In the 1800s, Catherine Gray is an aspiring botanical illustrator who gets a job painting specimens of flowers in the English Lake Country for her book on fairy flowers. At Pine Cottage, Catherine discovers an unusual flower that's just as enchanting as the land she has found herself in. The mysterious groundskeeper Thomas seems to be keeping secrets about Pine Cottage and the strange disappearance of the previous botanist who also discovered the unusual flower. Catherine finds herself bewitched by the gardens, forests, and folklore of the Lake Country... and by Thomas. The magic of the flowers helps Catherine to discover her dreams as her heart blossoms into its own beautiful garden.
This is my favourite Sharon Lynn Fisher novel thus far. I loved the premise of a Victorian botanical illustrator finding a magical flower. The whimsy and mystery unfurled together beautifully. I wasn't expecting the novel to go into a folkloric/fairy direction, but it was the perfect way to tell a story about the beguiling English countryside and history of fairy drawings. Catherine Gray was a great character whose independence and bravery really captured my heart. I loved the enchanting quality of the story and writing which really pulled me into the story. The descriptions of the flowers and characters were charming and fascinating.
My only critique is that I don't think the novel needed the love scene. I am a bit of a prude when it comes to Victorian fiction. and prefer when writers respect the writing style of the era. I also think it may have been nice to include some of Catherine's illustrations throughout the novel.
I would recommend Bane Bloom for fans of magical realism, historical fantasy, and romantasy.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
In the 1800s, Catherine Gray is an aspiring botanical illustrator who gets a job painting specimens of flowers in the English Lake Country for her book on fairy flowers. At Pine Cottage, Catherine discovers an unusual flower that's just as enchanting as the land she has found herself in. The mysterious groundskeeper Thomas seems to be keeping secrets about Pine Cottage and the strange disappearance of the previous botanist who also discovered the unusual flower. Catherine finds herself bewitched by the gardens, forests, and folklore of the Lake Country... and by Thomas. The magic of the flowers helps Catherine to discover her dreams as her heart blossoms into its own beautiful garden.
This is my favourite Sharon Lynn Fisher novel thus far. I loved the premise of a Victorian botanical illustrator finding a magical flower. The whimsy and mystery unfurled together beautifully. I wasn't expecting the novel to go into a folkloric/fairy direction, but it was the perfect way to tell a story about the beguiling English countryside and history of fairy drawings. Catherine Gray was a great character whose independence and bravery really captured my heart. I loved the enchanting quality of the story and writing which really pulled me into the story. The descriptions of the flowers and characters were charming and fascinating.
My only critique is that I don't think the novel needed the love scene. I am a bit of a prude when it comes to Victorian fiction. and prefer when writers respect the writing style of the era. I also think it may have been nice to include some of Catherine's illustrations throughout the novel.
I would recommend Bane Bloom for fans of magical realism, historical fantasy, and romantasy.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Bane Bloom is a story about a 30 year old spinster in Victorian London who asks an apothecary society to give her a chance at an apprenticeship to support her artist father who is in desperate need to retire. So, they give her an opportunity to prove herself by traveling to a remote area in England to live in a cottage and document the flora there. However, once she arrives she learns her predecessor has disappeared and the mysterious caretaker of the grounds where she is living is tightlipped about the situation. After conducting her research, she stumbles upon the Bane Bloom, an unusual looking flower that can shift itself to appear as a common waterlily. As she explores the grounds and uncovers more secrets, she realizes that the flower is dangerous. She turns to the caretaker for help and she grows closer to him in the process.
This book turned out to be such a joy. I'm not sure what I was expecting when I started it, all I knew was that it was described as a cozy gothic fantasy. The mystery of the flower and the Bane family really drew me in and I needed to know more. The inclusion of the fae and similar creatures were also very interesting. The romance was really wonderful and you could feel the passion building up between the two. I also really liked that it explored a woman's ability to make their own choices. The setting in this book is impeccable. I could imagine myself living at this cottage and visiting the nearby town. I was a bit frustrated by the MMC saying the same three words over and over. I was desperate for him to learn new words. I also felt the events of the story were a bit rushed. I think a lot of it took place over the span of a week? That being said, I loved it and I really wouldn't be opposed to a possible sequel.
This book turned out to be such a joy. I'm not sure what I was expecting when I started it, all I knew was that it was described as a cozy gothic fantasy. The mystery of the flower and the Bane family really drew me in and I needed to know more. The inclusion of the fae and similar creatures were also very interesting. The romance was really wonderful and you could feel the passion building up between the two. I also really liked that it explored a woman's ability to make their own choices. The setting in this book is impeccable. I could imagine myself living at this cottage and visiting the nearby town. I was a bit frustrated by the MMC saying the same three words over and over. I was desperate for him to learn new words. I also felt the events of the story were a bit rushed. I think a lot of it took place over the span of a week? That being said, I loved it and I really wouldn't be opposed to a possible sequel.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to 47North and NetGalley for the chance to read the eARC of Bane Bloom. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A delightfully atmospheric novel set with a poison garden in a greenhouse attached to a countryside farmhouse in the Northern UK, I knew I had to read it as soon as I found out about it. I read Salt & Broom by the Sharon Lynn Fisher earlier this year and was utterly charmed by the research and heart she packs into her writing. So - what's this one about?
Cricket sets off to the northern UK on a task to catalogue the garden at Pine Cottage. She is hoping to become an apothecary's apprentice in order to care for her aging father. Pine Cottage has its secrets, though, as does its grumpy caretaker, Thomas Bane. As Cricket grows to learn these secrets, she learns things about herself and things begin to blossom.
First of all, love Cricket and Thomas as characters. I feel like the depth of character and the self-discovery gives both characters a good arc. I like that we get occasional Thomas POVs. The yearning...! I love a man that yearns. The fantasy elements and plot-line were developed enough to keep me interested, although this is largely a character-driven storyline. This works because, like I said before, I found both Cricket and Thomas compelling, complex characters with reasonable reactions and emotions.
When I think about Bane Bloom, I think about Her Wicked Roots. I also think about Emily Wilde's Encyclopedia of Fairies, albeit a darker version. The writing style and magical realism reminds me of Allison Saft's work!
Overall, 5/5 stars for me.
A delightfully atmospheric novel set with a poison garden in a greenhouse attached to a countryside farmhouse in the Northern UK, I knew I had to read it as soon as I found out about it. I read Salt & Broom by the Sharon Lynn Fisher earlier this year and was utterly charmed by the research and heart she packs into her writing. So - what's this one about?
Cricket sets off to the northern UK on a task to catalogue the garden at Pine Cottage. She is hoping to become an apothecary's apprentice in order to care for her aging father. Pine Cottage has its secrets, though, as does its grumpy caretaker, Thomas Bane. As Cricket grows to learn these secrets, she learns things about herself and things begin to blossom.
First of all, love Cricket and Thomas as characters. I feel like the depth of character and the self-discovery gives both characters a good arc. I like that we get occasional Thomas POVs. The yearning...! I love a man that yearns. The fantasy elements and plot-line were developed enough to keep me interested, although this is largely a character-driven storyline. This works because, like I said before, I found both Cricket and Thomas compelling, complex characters with reasonable reactions and emotions.
When I think about Bane Bloom, I think about Her Wicked Roots. I also think about Emily Wilde's Encyclopedia of Fairies, albeit a darker version. The writing style and magical realism reminds me of Allison Saft's work!
Overall, 5/5 stars for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Bane Bloom is a wonderfully atmospheric blend of Victorian mystery, botanical fantasy, and slow‑building tension. Sharon Lynn Fisher creates a world that feels lush and slightly uncanny from the moment Catherine Gray steps onto the remote Lake District estate. As a botanical illustrator, Catherine’s eye for detail becomes the perfect lens through which the story unfolds — every strange plant, every shadowed corner of the glasshouse, every shift in the water lily’s appearance adds to the novel’s quiet sense of enchantment.
The Bane family’s secrets are woven beautifully into the narrative. Thomas Bane is brooding but compelling, and the discovery of his mother Prudence’s diary deepens the story in a way that feels both intimate and unsettling. The blurred line between superstition and science gives the book a dreamy, gothic quality, and Catherine’s growing uncertainty about what’s real makes the mystery even more engaging.
What I loved most is how the novel balances its darker elements with emotional warmth. Catherine’s connection to Thomas feels steady and grounding, even as the house and its strange flora seem determined to pull her off balance. The story becomes not just a mystery about a missing illustrator or a family touched by madness, but a journey toward confronting personal heartbreak and claiming one’s own strength.
Rich, eerie, and beautifully imagined, Bane Bloom is a captivating read for anyone who enjoys gothic fantasy with a botanical twist and a heroine who refuses to look away from the truth.
With thanks to Sharon Lynn Fisher, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The Bane family’s secrets are woven beautifully into the narrative. Thomas Bane is brooding but compelling, and the discovery of his mother Prudence’s diary deepens the story in a way that feels both intimate and unsettling. The blurred line between superstition and science gives the book a dreamy, gothic quality, and Catherine’s growing uncertainty about what’s real makes the mystery even more engaging.
What I loved most is how the novel balances its darker elements with emotional warmth. Catherine’s connection to Thomas feels steady and grounding, even as the house and its strange flora seem determined to pull her off balance. The story becomes not just a mystery about a missing illustrator or a family touched by madness, but a journey toward confronting personal heartbreak and claiming one’s own strength.
Rich, eerie, and beautifully imagined, Bane Bloom is a captivating read for anyone who enjoys gothic fantasy with a botanical twist and a heroine who refuses to look away from the truth.
With thanks to Sharon Lynn Fisher, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of an advance copy received via NetGalley.
Wow, Sharon Lynn Fisher's greatest strength is atmosphere!! The Lake District setting is lush, expansive and just a little spooky, while the greenhouse somehow becomes as captivating as any of the actual characters. It absolutely feels like the kind of book that needs pressed flowers between the pages. Little botanical sketches in the margins. Something tangible to match just how vivid Fisher makes this world feel.
Bane Bloom leans into gothic mystery, especially in the first half. I actually expected more fantasy, but I ended up loving the quieter, creeping unease instead. There's this constant feeling that something isn't quite right - and it pulls you right in! The folklore feels so lived in and perfecetly placed. It grows naturally out of the setting, weaving together Victorian botanical obsession and old world superstition so effortlessly.
One of my favourite discoveries came after I'd finished the book. In the acknowledgements, Sharon mentions the Pinterest boards she created while writing Bane Bloom. Obviously I had to go and look them up. Seeing the photos, colours, flowers and landscapes she'd collected somehow made me appreciate the story even more. It was like getting a tiny glimpse inside her imagination and recognising moments I'd already pictured while reading. Definitely don't skip having a look.
If you enjoy botanical folklore, atmospheric mysteries, slow burn romance and stories that feel like wandering through an overgrown English garde... I think you'll have a really good time with Bane Bloom.
This was my first Sharon Lynn Fisher novel, but it definitely won't be my last!
Wow, Sharon Lynn Fisher's greatest strength is atmosphere!! The Lake District setting is lush, expansive and just a little spooky, while the greenhouse somehow becomes as captivating as any of the actual characters. It absolutely feels like the kind of book that needs pressed flowers between the pages. Little botanical sketches in the margins. Something tangible to match just how vivid Fisher makes this world feel.
Bane Bloom leans into gothic mystery, especially in the first half. I actually expected more fantasy, but I ended up loving the quieter, creeping unease instead. There's this constant feeling that something isn't quite right - and it pulls you right in! The folklore feels so lived in and perfecetly placed. It grows naturally out of the setting, weaving together Victorian botanical obsession and old world superstition so effortlessly.
One of my favourite discoveries came after I'd finished the book. In the acknowledgements, Sharon mentions the Pinterest boards she created while writing Bane Bloom. Obviously I had to go and look them up. Seeing the photos, colours, flowers and landscapes she'd collected somehow made me appreciate the story even more. It was like getting a tiny glimpse inside her imagination and recognising moments I'd already pictured while reading. Definitely don't skip having a look.
If you enjoy botanical folklore, atmospheric mysteries, slow burn romance and stories that feel like wandering through an overgrown English garde... I think you'll have a really good time with Bane Bloom.
This was my first Sharon Lynn Fisher novel, but it definitely won't be my last!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In 1850, Catherine Gray is sent by the London Society of Apothecaries to the Lake District to illustrate and catalogue the plants of an extraordinary greenhouse. Instead of a quiet botanical assignment, she finds herself surrounded by unsettling mysteries: her predecessor has disappeared without a trace, a strange new plant seems to possess impossible properties, and the estate's reserved groundskeeper, Thomas, appears to be hiding more than he is willing to admit. As Catherine uncovers the secrets of the house and its garden, the boundary between the human world and the realm of the fae grows ever thinner.
The story unfolds at a gentle pace, allowing the mystery and the enchanting atmosphere to shine. I loved exploring the eerie garden alongside Catherine and gradually discovering the truth behind its inhabitants. Catherine is a wonderfully intelligent heroine whose curiosity and rational mind make her easy to admire, and I especially appreciated that the author avoids contrived misunderstandings and unnecessary drama.
The slow-burn romance between Catherine and Thomas feels natural and deeply satisfying. Even more impressive is the way the novel weaves together botany, science, folklore, faerie magic, family history, and a subtle exploration of women's place in Victorian society.
Bane Bloom completely captivated me. If you enjoy atmospheric fantasy with gothic undertones, a thoughtful heroine, and a beautiful blend of science and faerie lore, this is a book I wholeheartedly recommend.
The story unfolds at a gentle pace, allowing the mystery and the enchanting atmosphere to shine. I loved exploring the eerie garden alongside Catherine and gradually discovering the truth behind its inhabitants. Catherine is a wonderfully intelligent heroine whose curiosity and rational mind make her easy to admire, and I especially appreciated that the author avoids contrived misunderstandings and unnecessary drama.
The slow-burn romance between Catherine and Thomas feels natural and deeply satisfying. Even more impressive is the way the novel weaves together botany, science, folklore, faerie magic, family history, and a subtle exploration of women's place in Victorian society.
Bane Bloom completely captivated me. If you enjoy atmospheric fantasy with gothic undertones, a thoughtful heroine, and a beautiful blend of science and faerie lore, this is a book I wholeheartedly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First I want to thank Sharon and NetGalley for the opportunity to arc read bane bloom in exchange for a honest review!
Where do i start? I’m already a huge fan of Sharon’s cozy, fantasy gothic stories and bane bloom is easily another favorite of mine now. I really enjoyed the mystery and family secrets of pine cottage and how they developed throughout the book.
(Do you know your true hearts desire?
Do you wish to fulfill it even if it comes with consequences?)
I found the atmosphere with the darker themed fantasy, the folklore, the botanical elements and the emotional warmth of it all very well balanced. I could almost picture everything that was described and wished myself to be at pine cottage while reading this.
I also loved the tension between Catherine Gray and Thomas’s Bane (the groundskeeper)
and how their relationship slowly builds up. It was a perfect match, kinda like a grumpy x sunshine vibe but is he really grumpy or does he just have secrets of his own that are meant to uncover? 👀
You can tell that Sharon did a lot of research for this story but I was already anticipating that because if you’ve read salt & broom you’ve already know how important accurate research is to her. And as a little witch myself, I use lots of flowers and herbs in my spells, so this was such a lovely experience.
And as always, if you loved a book you end up wishing it was longer and that you could continue reading it.
the ending was how I imagined it but I wished for longer chapters so that nothing loses it’s significance.
5/5 read for me 🖤💫🌿
Where do i start? I’m already a huge fan of Sharon’s cozy, fantasy gothic stories and bane bloom is easily another favorite of mine now. I really enjoyed the mystery and family secrets of pine cottage and how they developed throughout the book.
(Do you know your true hearts desire?
Do you wish to fulfill it even if it comes with consequences?)
I found the atmosphere with the darker themed fantasy, the folklore, the botanical elements and the emotional warmth of it all very well balanced. I could almost picture everything that was described and wished myself to be at pine cottage while reading this.
I also loved the tension between Catherine Gray and Thomas’s Bane (the groundskeeper)
and how their relationship slowly builds up. It was a perfect match, kinda like a grumpy x sunshine vibe but is he really grumpy or does he just have secrets of his own that are meant to uncover? 👀
You can tell that Sharon did a lot of research for this story but I was already anticipating that because if you’ve read salt & broom you’ve already know how important accurate research is to her. And as a little witch myself, I use lots of flowers and herbs in my spells, so this was such a lovely experience.
And as always, if you loved a book you end up wishing it was longer and that you could continue reading it.
the ending was how I imagined it but I wished for longer chapters so that nothing loses it’s significance.
5/5 read for me 🖤💫🌿
July 28, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Bane Bloom was an enjoyable gothic read with an eerie, atmospheric setting that immediately pulled me in. The author does an incredible job at creating a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the story, and that was easily one of my favorite aspects of the book.
I also really enjoyed the dynamic between our two main characters. I found myself much more invested in their journey than anything else happening around them. While the botanical and garden elements were clearly central to the novel, I personally didn’t find myself as engaged with that aspect of the story. Instead, I was far more captivated by the mystery surrounding the characters and the romance between our two main leads.
Also, the ending… it felt rushed. I would have loved more time for the story to breathe and for the resolution to unfold more gradually, as it felt like everything wrapped up a little too abruptly.
Overall, this was a solid 3.5 star read for me. If you’re a fan of gothic fiction, atmospheric settings, intriguing mysteries, and slow-burn romances, I think this is a book worth picking up for you.
Bane Bloom was an enjoyable gothic read with an eerie, atmospheric setting that immediately pulled me in. The author does an incredible job at creating a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the story, and that was easily one of my favorite aspects of the book.
I also really enjoyed the dynamic between our two main characters. I found myself much more invested in their journey than anything else happening around them. While the botanical and garden elements were clearly central to the novel, I personally didn’t find myself as engaged with that aspect of the story. Instead, I was far more captivated by the mystery surrounding the characters and the romance between our two main leads.
Also, the ending… it felt rushed. I would have loved more time for the story to breathe and for the resolution to unfold more gradually, as it felt like everything wrapped up a little too abruptly.
Overall, this was a solid 3.5 star read for me. If you’re a fan of gothic fiction, atmospheric settings, intriguing mysteries, and slow-burn romances, I think this is a book worth picking up for you.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having previously read Tea & Alchemy, I was really looking forward to reading another book by Sharon Lynn Fisher, and I’m so glad I did.
Bane Bloom is a beautifully atmospheric fantasy filled with magical gardens, mysterious secrets, and wonderfully developed characters. Set around a poisonous greenhouse in the northern UK countryside, the setting felt rich, immersive, and completely enchanting.
Cricket and Thomas were both compelling protagonists, and I especially loved their slow burning connection and the glimpses into Thomas’s point of view. The story leans more towards character driven fantasy than fast paced action which was beautifully done and the emotional depth and magical realism kept me turning the pages.
Sharon Lynn Fisher has such a captivating writing style, and after enjoying a second book from her, she’s definitely become an author I’ll be looking out for.
If you enjoy Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries, The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst, Her Wicked Roots by Rachel Griffin then this is well worth adding to your TBR.📚✨
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Bane Bloom is one of the most unique fantasy books I’ve read in a while. Instead of the familiar romantasy formula of brooding fae princes, political intrigue, and epic battles, this embraces the older, folkloric interpretation of fairies—and it does so beautifully.
This is cozy gothic fantasy at its best. The atmosphere is wonderfully eerie without ever becoming outright horror, and the house feels like a character in its own right. The story makes excellent use of classic gothic elements—an isolated setting, creeping unease, folklore, and lingering mystery—while giving them a fresh, cozy twist.
The mystery unfolds at a steady pace, always revealing just enough to keep me turning the pages. It’s a book that knows exactly what it wants to be, and it executes that vision incredibly well.
If you’re looking for an atmospheric, folklore-inspired gothic fantasy with cozy, unsettling vibes rather than an action-heavy romantasy, Bane Bloom is absolutely worth picking up.
Bane Bloom is one of the most unique fantasy books I’ve read in a while. Instead of the familiar romantasy formula of brooding fae princes, political intrigue, and epic battles, this embraces the older, folkloric interpretation of fairies—and it does so beautifully.
This is cozy gothic fantasy at its best. The atmosphere is wonderfully eerie without ever becoming outright horror, and the house feels like a character in its own right. The story makes excellent use of classic gothic elements—an isolated setting, creeping unease, folklore, and lingering mystery—while giving them a fresh, cozy twist.
The mystery unfolds at a steady pace, always revealing just enough to keep me turning the pages. It’s a book that knows exactly what it wants to be, and it executes that vision incredibly well.
If you’re looking for an atmospheric, folklore-inspired gothic fantasy with cozy, unsettling vibes rather than an action-heavy romantasy, Bane Bloom is absolutely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Catherine Gray, an illustrator nicknamed Cricket plans on creating a herbary combining plants and fairies. For this she needs a spot at the Society of Apothecaries. She finds herself a temporary residence at Pine Cottage in the Lake District, hired to catalog the poisonous plants. Here she meets Thomas, groundskeeper of the estate. It soon becomes evident the plants in the glasshouse and the books in the cottage have a life of their own. And how does Thomas' story fit in?
I thoroughly enjoyed this 19th century gothic cosy, the luscious, slightly dangerous environment, the magic and community. Cricket and Thomas getting to know each other, seeing opposites attract, the tender care they have for each other.
Bane Bloom is a well written, fast paced rarity that hooked me from the start.
I was so emerged in the story, I didn't expect it to end when it did. All of a sudden it was over. Rushed and abrupt.
I'm writing this the day after and still feel disappointed.
Thank you Netgalley and 47North for the ARC.
I thoroughly enjoyed this 19th century gothic cosy, the luscious, slightly dangerous environment, the magic and community. Cricket and Thomas getting to know each other, seeing opposites attract, the tender care they have for each other.
Bane Bloom is a well written, fast paced rarity that hooked me from the start.
I was so emerged in the story, I didn't expect it to end when it did. All of a sudden it was over. Rushed and abrupt.
I'm writing this the day after and still feel disappointed.
Thank you Netgalley and 47North for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Bane Blood was my second novel by Sharon Lynn Fisher and I was pleased to find I enjoyed it just as much as Tea & Alchemy. From the start, I was captivated by the gothic and cosy atmosphere and obvious research behind her writing.
Catherine is an intelligent and thoughtful botanical illustrator who travels to Pine Cottage where she will catalogue its greenhouse garden. She meets the elusive and intriguing groundskeeper, Thomas, who regards her with quiet disdain and mild curiosity. Throughout their interactions, the pair find themselves drawn closer together as Catherine navigates the secrets of the estate.
Set in the 1850s, it was insightful to read about the various tribulations women would’ve faced navigating a male dominated society. Additionally, the blend of Victorian era with folklore and mystery was exquisitely written and the relationship between protagonists felt genuine.
I adore how Fisher is able to write slow-burns in under 400 pages without them feeling rushed or lacking. The story is primarily in Catherine’s POV but we have some chapters of Thomas, giving us a glimpse into his complex character.
Combined with her skill for lush atmospheric settings and unique storylines, it is fair to say I will be picking up more of Fisher’s works in the future.
Bane Blood was my second novel by Sharon Lynn Fisher and I was pleased to find I enjoyed it just as much as Tea & Alchemy. From the start, I was captivated by the gothic and cosy atmosphere and obvious research behind her writing.
Catherine is an intelligent and thoughtful botanical illustrator who travels to Pine Cottage where she will catalogue its greenhouse garden. She meets the elusive and intriguing groundskeeper, Thomas, who regards her with quiet disdain and mild curiosity. Throughout their interactions, the pair find themselves drawn closer together as Catherine navigates the secrets of the estate.
Set in the 1850s, it was insightful to read about the various tribulations women would’ve faced navigating a male dominated society. Additionally, the blend of Victorian era with folklore and mystery was exquisitely written and the relationship between protagonists felt genuine.
I adore how Fisher is able to write slow-burns in under 400 pages without them feeling rushed or lacking. The story is primarily in Catherine’s POV but we have some chapters of Thomas, giving us a glimpse into his complex character.
Combined with her skill for lush atmospheric settings and unique storylines, it is fair to say I will be picking up more of Fisher’s works in the future.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Bane Bloom was my first book by Sharon Lynn Fisher, and I really enjoyed its blend of botanical atmosphere, faeries, magical realism, mystery, and romance. Catherine and Thomas’s reluctant-friends-to-lovers relationship was the strongest part of the story. Their slow-burn romance developed naturally through forced proximity and gradually earned trust, making the payoff feel satisfying. Thomas’s mystery also delivered a twist I did not see coming. The beginning and middle were well paced, but the final hundred pages felt rushed. The mystery resolved too quickly, and I wanted more time with the faeries, magical elements, and aftermath of the revelations. Despite the rushed ending, this was an enjoyable introduction to Sharon Lynn Fisher’s writing, and I would be interested in reading more from her.
3.75 stars
Bane Bloom was my first book by Sharon Lynn Fisher, and I really enjoyed its blend of botanical atmosphere, faeries, magical realism, mystery, and romance. Catherine and Thomas’s reluctant-friends-to-lovers relationship was the strongest part of the story. Their slow-burn romance developed naturally through forced proximity and gradually earned trust, making the payoff feel satisfying. Thomas’s mystery also delivered a twist I did not see coming. The beginning and middle were well paced, but the final hundred pages felt rushed. The mystery resolved too quickly, and I wanted more time with the faeries, magical elements, and aftermath of the revelations. Despite the rushed ending, this was an enjoyable introduction to Sharon Lynn Fisher’s writing, and I would be interested in reading more from her.
3.75 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely wonderful book. An ideal cozy for anyone interested in botany and fairies. Cricket was a really likable main character who just wanted a chance to create beautiful illustrations and live her own life. Her time in the country was really lovely to experience, from the homey inn to the great local characters. Thomas is a great match for her. He starts out as the typical gruff guy with emotional walls up, but it doesn’t last long and he’s truly kind in a realistic way. The more supernatural events and characters are creative and hypnotic…maybe a little creepy but you still don’t want to look away. I enjoyed every moment I spent in the story! And I loved the Salt & Broom reference! 😍 Can’t wait to have a physical copy of this to love. 🥰
I’m grateful to Sharon Lynn Fisher and NetGalley for this ARC!!
I’m grateful to Sharon Lynn Fisher and NetGalley for this ARC!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The copious descriptions of the looks and scents of the plants make it very obvious how much the author loves and knows about plants. I can feel the cozy vibes just from that.
But the writing style and plot gets more and more interesting and captivating the deeper you get into the story. The entire genre changes into something completely unexpected.
But the writing style and plot gets more and more interesting and captivating the deeper you get into the story. The entire genre changes into something completely unexpected.
Read
July 5, 2026🖤 Bane Bloom 🖤
📖 Bookish Thoughts
My full review will be shared closer to the publication date.
🌿 What to Expect
• Gothic Fantasy
• Victorian England
• Botanical Magic
• Haunted Estate
• Brooding Groundskeeper
• Family Secrets
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: October 6, 2026
Thank you to 47North and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
📖 Bookish Thoughts
My full review will be shared closer to the publication date.
🌿 What to Expect
• Gothic Fantasy
• Victorian England
• Botanical Magic
• Haunted Estate
• Brooding Groundskeeper
• Family Secrets
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: October 6, 2026
Thank you to 47North and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ah how I loved this one! It had equal parts romance, witchy magic and dread. Hattie was my favourite character with all the loud talking. The characters were well written and the story's pacing wasn't too fast nor too slow. It was actually nice reading a story about fairies, dead people, child abandonment and romance in one book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This mix of botany, suspense, mystery, twist and turns set in Pride & Prejudice era - this was joy to read. The dark gothic writing draws you in and doesn't let go. I loved reading Catherine's journey to the Lake District and her book idea was so fun.
The deeper you go the more twists and turns that come at you but the emotional damage is worth it.
The deeper you go the more twists and turns that come at you but the emotional damage is worth it.
July 3, 2026
A botanical illustrator travels to a remote glasshouse in the gloomy English countryside, where she becomes entangled with its mysterious caretaker.
Full of mystery, fairies, and a dash of romance, I really enjoyed this one.
Full of mystery, fairies, and a dash of romance, I really enjoyed this one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a nice and enchanting read. It has some academia in it which I enjoyed and I love the discussions about herbs and other plants. It's a nice cozy type of read.
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