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The Haunting of Lavender House
Not yet published
Expected 20 Oct 26A crumbling home surrounded by lavender fields. A decades-long curse. A nightmare from Croatian folklore with a thirst for blood. The Lost Apothecary meets The Hacienda in this multigenerational, haunting gothic saga set on the Adriatic Sea.
2026. All Petra has inherited are tales of loss. Which is why, after her mother’s passing, she is shocked to learn that her grandmother is not dead like she’s always believed, but alive and living on Tolba, a small island in Croatia. Desperate to find her last surviving family member, Petra ventures to her ancestral home, famed for its sprawling lavender fields. While she's happy to be reunited with her grandmother, rarely does a night go by that Petra doesn’t lose herself to vivid nightmares and the dizzying sense that something—or someone—is always watching in Lavender House.
1895. Whore. Sinner. Witch. No matter how many people Magdalena heals, the rumors persist. So, when she’s asked to help the matriarch of Lavender House, she seizes the opportunity to rehabilitate her reputation. As Magdalena races against time to heal the ailing woman, she finds herself unexpectedly falling for the son of her greatest enemy, the man responsible for her ostracization. But are true love and acceptance possible for a woman who has always lived on the margins?
Back in the present, Petra finds it increasingly difficult to ignore the rumors plaguing her family: that a mora, a spirit from Croatian folklore, haunts Lavender House for revenge. Her grandmother says it’s nothing more than gossip made up by jealous townsfolk. But as her nightmares turn darker, invading her waking hours and threatening her newfound romance, she suspects there’s something more sinister lurking beneath the island’s surface. As the sole heir to Lavender House, Petra must discover the truth of her inheritance—or else fall prey to the same curse that claimed her family.
Through the intersecting stories of Petra and Magdalena, Natalie Kikić’s gorgeous debut asks us to consider the lengths to which we go to belong, the cost of choosing love, and what it really means to be a monster.
2026. All Petra has inherited are tales of loss. Which is why, after her mother’s passing, she is shocked to learn that her grandmother is not dead like she’s always believed, but alive and living on Tolba, a small island in Croatia. Desperate to find her last surviving family member, Petra ventures to her ancestral home, famed for its sprawling lavender fields. While she's happy to be reunited with her grandmother, rarely does a night go by that Petra doesn’t lose herself to vivid nightmares and the dizzying sense that something—or someone—is always watching in Lavender House.
1895. Whore. Sinner. Witch. No matter how many people Magdalena heals, the rumors persist. So, when she’s asked to help the matriarch of Lavender House, she seizes the opportunity to rehabilitate her reputation. As Magdalena races against time to heal the ailing woman, she finds herself unexpectedly falling for the son of her greatest enemy, the man responsible for her ostracization. But are true love and acceptance possible for a woman who has always lived on the margins?
Back in the present, Petra finds it increasingly difficult to ignore the rumors plaguing her family: that a mora, a spirit from Croatian folklore, haunts Lavender House for revenge. Her grandmother says it’s nothing more than gossip made up by jealous townsfolk. But as her nightmares turn darker, invading her waking hours and threatening her newfound romance, she suspects there’s something more sinister lurking beneath the island’s surface. As the sole heir to Lavender House, Petra must discover the truth of her inheritance—or else fall prey to the same curse that claimed her family.
Through the intersecting stories of Petra and Magdalena, Natalie Kikić’s gorgeous debut asks us to consider the lengths to which we go to belong, the cost of choosing love, and what it really means to be a monster.
320 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication October 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
June 25, 2026
~thank you to NetGalley, and the publisher for giving me an arc in exchange for an honest review~
I’ve been slacking on my reading lately but damn this was good. I loved how it was written. The different POV chapters were cool and I like how it all tied in together at the end. & the epilogue was gooooood.
I’ve been slacking on my reading lately but damn this was good. I loved how it was written. The different POV chapters were cool and I like how it all tied in together at the end. & the epilogue was gooooood.
July 13, 2026
This is my first time reading a book from Natalie Kiki’s and I enjoyed The Haunting of Lavender House. I very much would like to visit Croatia now! It sounds so lush and beautiful; I could practically smell the lavender. The ambiance was dark and romance was more at the center than I expected. I’ve never heard of a Mora prior to this reading, but it lent itself well to the story. There was quite a bit going on and some portions were a bit formulaic so I did deduct one star. I definitely think it’s worth the read!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 26, 2026
4.5/ i absolutely loved this book and i have so much to say
the haunting of lavender house is an atmospheric gothic horror romance rooted in a unique croatian folklore and set on a fictional croatian island. it revolves around the concept of a ‘mora,’ a nightmare come to life in the form of a woman experiencing unrequited love, and who now haunts and seeks revenge for eternity. our MC Petra’s ancestral home is haunted by one, and we follow Petra as she unravels the dark history of her family to try and undo this evil curse, all while trying hard not to fall in love and risk an innocent man's life.
i absolutely loved reading a book set in croatia and using croatian words and phrases and vibes and descriptions, and the fact that its a combination of 2 genres i love - gothic horror & romance - girl this book was made for me. i was so happy reading this book (despite all the horror and terror happening) and im so thankful to the author natalie kikić for writing something like this and being able to put it out into the world. i love a book that feels like lots of research was done, and especially after reading the authors note, it’s obvious that’s the case here.
the story is told in alternating timelines, between the late 19th century from the pov of Magdalena, someone closely connected to the history of the mora and Petra's ancestors, and the modern day from Petra's pov. the author did an excellent job building up suspense, as well as building the readers' comprehension, of the mora through Magdalena's diary entries juxtaposed against the horrors Petra was experiencing. as a result, this book was kind of a slow burn. the last like 5% was when the climax hit, and i wish that the scene was built up a little better, but whatever my heart was still pounding and i was still stressed out for everybody involved.
as for the romance, it was very sweet, but considering the fact that this is marketed as a horror romance and that the premise of the mora relies on finding people in love to haunt and terrorize, i really wish petra and luka's relationship was developed a little bit more. like i was very invested in their relationship and i teared up at the epilogue (it was beautiful) but something was missing for me... i think i just needed more tension and grittiness to go with the dark atmosphere?
also final note - special shoutout to the book cover. whoever designed it and incorporated the milje into the haunting design, u slayed it.
the haunting of lavender house is an atmospheric gothic horror romance rooted in a unique croatian folklore and set on a fictional croatian island. it revolves around the concept of a ‘mora,’ a nightmare come to life in the form of a woman experiencing unrequited love, and who now haunts and seeks revenge for eternity. our MC Petra’s ancestral home is haunted by one, and we follow Petra as she unravels the dark history of her family to try and undo this evil curse, all while trying hard not to fall in love and risk an innocent man's life.
i absolutely loved reading a book set in croatia and using croatian words and phrases and vibes and descriptions, and the fact that its a combination of 2 genres i love - gothic horror & romance - girl this book was made for me. i was so happy reading this book (despite all the horror and terror happening) and im so thankful to the author natalie kikić for writing something like this and being able to put it out into the world. i love a book that feels like lots of research was done, and especially after reading the authors note, it’s obvious that’s the case here.
the story is told in alternating timelines, between the late 19th century from the pov of Magdalena, someone closely connected to the history of the mora and Petra's ancestors, and the modern day from Petra's pov. the author did an excellent job building up suspense, as well as building the readers' comprehension, of the mora through Magdalena's diary entries juxtaposed against the horrors Petra was experiencing. as a result, this book was kind of a slow burn. the last like 5% was when the climax hit, and i wish that the scene was built up a little better, but whatever my heart was still pounding and i was still stressed out for everybody involved.
as for the romance, it was very sweet, but considering the fact that this is marketed as a horror romance and that the premise of the mora relies on finding people in love to haunt and terrorize, i really wish petra and luka's relationship was developed a little bit more. like i was very invested in their relationship and i teared up at the epilogue (it was beautiful) but something was missing for me... i think i just needed more tension and grittiness to go with the dark atmosphere?
also final note - special shoutout to the book cover. whoever designed it and incorporated the milje into the haunting design, u slayed it.
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June 22, 2026A gorgeous, atmospheric book that made me long to explore the Adriatic! Kikic paints a vivid and lively portrait of the land, the water, the people, and traditions. The points of view were skillfully navigated, and the novel's exploration of family, identity, community, vengeance, and healing gave the book just the right amount of substance to keep me coming back for more. A highly engaging and entertaining read.
Thank you to Netgalley for the early read!
(Mom, not for you!)
Thank you to Netgalley for the early read!
(Mom, not for you!)
July 2, 2026
I am swooning over the Croatian Gothic Romance of my dreams! ❤️
After the death of her mother, Petra Klarin sets off on the adventure of a lifetime to reconnect with the grandmother she never knew on the island of Tolba. An outsider in a land that knows her by the very blood that courses through her veins, Petra soon learns there’s something amiss about her ancestral home. A spectral vision, fever dreams, and a curse that must be lifted for the island, and her family, to finally be rid of the past that has scarred The House of Lavender. 🌊
Author Natalie Kikić delivers the Gothic atmosphere, by using common backdrops of Dalmatia. No longer are we women running from castles, we are women running from stone houses, through island ruins, emerging in the lush landscape of lavendar fields and olive groves. 🪻
As someone who is also a part of the Croatian diaspora, this book hit so many notes for me as a reader. That feeling of not being “enough” of one thing - American or Croatian - the loss of language due to assimilation, and that yearning to belong to a place that feels like home.🌊
I also appreciated that Kikić took inspiration from her father’s home island of Olib, as well as from fascinating academic texts on witchcraft in Croatia. I’ve paired my e-book here with illustrations of folk dances from a few of the islands and mainland of Dalmatia. 🪻
With the vibes of Practical Magic x Mexican Gothic x The Haunting of Alejandra, this is the perfect summer read! So, if you have NetGalley, RUN and make your request from @parkrowbooks because it doesn’t come out until this fall. 🌊
Thank you @harpercollins | @parkrowbooks | @netgalley | @natkikicwrites for the advance readers copy of this fantastic novel! I can’t wait to hold a copy in my hands later this year. 🪻
Now, I’m going to pre-order another copy through my local independent bookstore, @thepaperheartbooks. You should pre-order this through your favorite store, too. 😘
#gothicromance #gothichorror #gothicliterature #croatiangothic #bookstagram
After the death of her mother, Petra Klarin sets off on the adventure of a lifetime to reconnect with the grandmother she never knew on the island of Tolba. An outsider in a land that knows her by the very blood that courses through her veins, Petra soon learns there’s something amiss about her ancestral home. A spectral vision, fever dreams, and a curse that must be lifted for the island, and her family, to finally be rid of the past that has scarred The House of Lavender. 🌊
Author Natalie Kikić delivers the Gothic atmosphere, by using common backdrops of Dalmatia. No longer are we women running from castles, we are women running from stone houses, through island ruins, emerging in the lush landscape of lavendar fields and olive groves. 🪻
As someone who is also a part of the Croatian diaspora, this book hit so many notes for me as a reader. That feeling of not being “enough” of one thing - American or Croatian - the loss of language due to assimilation, and that yearning to belong to a place that feels like home.🌊
I also appreciated that Kikić took inspiration from her father’s home island of Olib, as well as from fascinating academic texts on witchcraft in Croatia. I’ve paired my e-book here with illustrations of folk dances from a few of the islands and mainland of Dalmatia. 🪻
With the vibes of Practical Magic x Mexican Gothic x The Haunting of Alejandra, this is the perfect summer read! So, if you have NetGalley, RUN and make your request from @parkrowbooks because it doesn’t come out until this fall. 🌊
Thank you @harpercollins | @parkrowbooks | @netgalley | @natkikicwrites for the advance readers copy of this fantastic novel! I can’t wait to hold a copy in my hands later this year. 🪻
Now, I’m going to pre-order another copy through my local independent bookstore, @thepaperheartbooks. You should pre-order this through your favorite store, too. 😘
#gothicromance #gothichorror #gothicliterature #croatiangothic #bookstagram
Review of advance copy received from Author
Now this is how a story is told! The POVs are compelling, the Croatian lore is sublime, the romance is alluring, the haunting is believable. I'm loving books that don't use technology, that are set in remote locations and rely on personal interactions to move them forward. This mesmerizing, atmospheric gothic debut is sure to be a hit!
May 14, 2026
I have never read a book like this before. The gothic haunting contrasted with seaside Croatia made the atmosphere unique. I was especially engrossed with the historical timeline POV and loved how that story was told. Slow burn romance but perfect for the story!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!
July 6, 2026
The Haunting of Lavender house is a beautifully written gothic horror/romance, following the POVs of modern day Petra and 1800’s Magdalena to the seaside of Croatia. This is the perfect, haunting, spooky vibes book for fall, but honestly an amazing read for any time. The pacing of the book was spot on, not too slow, but the mystery kept me intrigued and I had to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next. I loved the dynamic between Petra and Luka, and the development of their relationship-it felt very real considering the timeline of just a month, and I appreciated the “where are they now” via epilogue. Petra’s relationship with her grandmother also felt very authentic-sweet but awkward at times, which I find realistic given that this is their first time being around one another.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley, thank you to the publisher! Opinions expressed in this review are completely
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley, thank you to the publisher! Opinions expressed in this review are completely
July 24, 2026
The Haunting of Lavender House is a dual-timeline gothic novel with elements of romance, horror and supernatural thriller. A man’s long ago wrong has created a family curse that holds an island captive. The book takes place in Croatia and utilizes bits of Croatian folklore, language, and culture to create a unique piece of gothic fiction. The Haunting of Lavender House evokes a dark and unsettling atmosphere peopled by a smattering of characters, most of whom are hastily drawn. That said, there is some character depth where it counts: Magdalena, Petra, and Luka. It is a love letter to Croatia’s islands, but I was underwhelmed. The prose was often overheated and melodramatic. I literally read “what fresh hell” in there. Overall, there are some things that make this gothic novel unique and piqued my interest, but it sort of fell flat in the middle.
I would like to thank Natalie Kikić, Harper Collins, and NetGalley for this uncorrected proof.
I would like to thank Natalie Kikić, Harper Collins, and NetGalley for this uncorrected proof.
May 25, 2026
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and was pleasantly surprised. I originally selected it based on the title alone, since folklore inspired stories usually aren’t my thing. However, this book really grabbed my attention especially one character, “the mora.” She was the main reason I wanted to keep reading. The way her story was written kept me invested throughout. I was able to predict some of the twists, but her character remained the most compelling and attention-grabbing part of the book for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Haunting of Lavender House by Natalie Kikic is a gothic mystery set on a Croatian island haunted by ancestral wounds, spirits, and broken hearts.
Petra has believed her whole life that her grandmother was dead. When she discovers she is alive and living on a secluded Croatian island, she ventures to her ancestral homeland to heal her family wounds. Her grandmother lives in a crumbling estate known as the Lavender House, a centuries old villa that was famous for its lavender production. Petra is overwhelmed by an eerie presence in the house that haunts her dreams and slowly unravels a gnarled knot of lies, death, and folklore that has been torturing her family for generations.
I have been waiting a very long time to read a book like this. As a member of the Croatian diaspora, I was incredibly excited when I first heard about this book. Croatian folklore is rich and underexplored in fiction and I am so happy that Natalie Kikic wrote a story that needed to be told.
Petra's experience as a first generation American visiting her ancestral homeland brought back memories of my first visit to Croatia as a first generation born Canadian. The culture shock of not quite being accepted by one's culture was written with so much truth and wit that perfectly captured the newcomer experience. The Mora folklore which I have never read about in western fiction before, was told through the lens of a scorned woman seeking revenge. All of the cultural complexities and old world mentalities of the characters and setting highlighted the tension between freedom and choice, two things that are still very much contentious issues in that part of the world. The story was layered with an emotional intensity that simmered in the hot and salty air of the Croatian coast with the beautiful descriptions and evocative writing. The supernatural atmosphere made this a page turner, with the right amounts of mystery, love, and suspense creating the perfect pace. There was a suffocating quality about the story that was told through the vivid imagery and sensory depictions of the writing, creating the impending sense of doom that was present from the first page.
I loved the sentient house point of view, as I have always felt the old stone houses in Croatia have an ancient presence within them, that exists within the otherworldly beauty of its landscape. There are so many aspects of Croatian life, culture, and folklore that were brought to life with the author's speculative twist, from the eerie religious iconography, to the ancient ruins, and pagan rituals that are quickly dismissed as mere spectres or superstitions if you ask any locals.
While reading the book, I couldn't help but connect to the inner story, about a woman trying to overcome her own self-limitations and self-sabotage which is definitely a Croatian characteristic, but also a common struggle for anyone who is afraid to open their heart. The flashbacks and generational traumas of the characters offered a reflection on what is means to be cursed. Is it all just superstition or are wounds inherited? It's hard not to be captivated by the beauty of the Croatian islands, and their rugged landscapes that hold more secrets than anyone will ever know.
Thank you Natalie Kikic for writing a book I have waited a long time to read. You absolutely nailed the Croatian gothic story you were trying to achieve. Please write more novels.
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.
Petra has believed her whole life that her grandmother was dead. When she discovers she is alive and living on a secluded Croatian island, she ventures to her ancestral homeland to heal her family wounds. Her grandmother lives in a crumbling estate known as the Lavender House, a centuries old villa that was famous for its lavender production. Petra is overwhelmed by an eerie presence in the house that haunts her dreams and slowly unravels a gnarled knot of lies, death, and folklore that has been torturing her family for generations.
I have been waiting a very long time to read a book like this. As a member of the Croatian diaspora, I was incredibly excited when I first heard about this book. Croatian folklore is rich and underexplored in fiction and I am so happy that Natalie Kikic wrote a story that needed to be told.
Petra's experience as a first generation American visiting her ancestral homeland brought back memories of my first visit to Croatia as a first generation born Canadian. The culture shock of not quite being accepted by one's culture was written with so much truth and wit that perfectly captured the newcomer experience. The Mora folklore which I have never read about in western fiction before, was told through the lens of a scorned woman seeking revenge. All of the cultural complexities and old world mentalities of the characters and setting highlighted the tension between freedom and choice, two things that are still very much contentious issues in that part of the world. The story was layered with an emotional intensity that simmered in the hot and salty air of the Croatian coast with the beautiful descriptions and evocative writing. The supernatural atmosphere made this a page turner, with the right amounts of mystery, love, and suspense creating the perfect pace. There was a suffocating quality about the story that was told through the vivid imagery and sensory depictions of the writing, creating the impending sense of doom that was present from the first page.
I loved the sentient house point of view, as I have always felt the old stone houses in Croatia have an ancient presence within them, that exists within the otherworldly beauty of its landscape. There are so many aspects of Croatian life, culture, and folklore that were brought to life with the author's speculative twist, from the eerie religious iconography, to the ancient ruins, and pagan rituals that are quickly dismissed as mere spectres or superstitions if you ask any locals.
While reading the book, I couldn't help but connect to the inner story, about a woman trying to overcome her own self-limitations and self-sabotage which is definitely a Croatian characteristic, but also a common struggle for anyone who is afraid to open their heart. The flashbacks and generational traumas of the characters offered a reflection on what is means to be cursed. Is it all just superstition or are wounds inherited? It's hard not to be captivated by the beauty of the Croatian islands, and their rugged landscapes that hold more secrets than anyone will ever know.
Thank you Natalie Kikic for writing a book I have waited a long time to read. You absolutely nailed the Croatian gothic story you were trying to achieve. Please write more novels.
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
4 stars! 🪻
A beautiful debut horror novel about family, female rage, vengeance, healing, and choices.
Thank you to Netgalley and Park Row for a copy of an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This reminded me so much of the show “Widow’s Bay” and gave me “Japanese gothic” vibes with the home being surrounded by lavender fields, and the fact that a story from the past as well as the present intertwines.
In “The Haunting of Lavender House” Petra Collins was raised to believe she had no living family members and is taken by surprise when she learns that she has a grandmother in Croatia where her mom left long ago-to never return. She decides to visit her mom’s childhood home and learn of her past. As she familiarizes herself with the town of Tolba, a sweet man named Luka who questions her intentions, and gets closer with her grandmother, she also begins to learn of rumors about a mora that has haunted her family for generations. We are also following the perspective of Magdelena, a healer in 1985. The townsfolk make assumptions and spread false accusations about her intentions. She only wants to help people, but they have labelled her as a witch. One day a wealthy man begs her for help in healing his mother who has mysteriously fallen gravely ill - who is also the wife of the man running the Lavender business in their small community. Presented with an offer she cannot refuse - she agrees. Will this venture also lead to her demise?
I am so thrilled to see what this author does next! This was a brilliant debut and had the perfect elements needed to capture a bone chilling story that is generations old. Vivid nightmares, creepy figures, and an old house that remembers. The interlude chapters were quite honestly some of my favorite ones, as they provided insight on how the home holds the family’s trauma - even after all this time.
Magdalena was a complex and deeply misunderstood character. She was quick to hope, help, and provide grace to others that was not granted to her in return. She felt deeply and loved boldly - which in return led her to her downfall. Her story is truly one of feminine rage and heartbreak.
Petra was hopeful in bonding with her family’s past, but not so much others, and definitely not wanting nor needing an emotional, romantic connection. Scared to love too closely, she always kept her flings short and sweet. Nothing serious. I am so proud of her for demanding justice for the sins of her family’s past. An eye for an eye made them all blind, and she broke the generational trauma/curse that has followed them for centuries. She also allowed herself to break some of her old patterns and let love in.
Luka - I hope you find your found family because you truly deserve everything good in this world.
Very excited for this to be published 💜
A beautiful debut horror novel about family, female rage, vengeance, healing, and choices.
Thank you to Netgalley and Park Row for a copy of an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This reminded me so much of the show “Widow’s Bay” and gave me “Japanese gothic” vibes with the home being surrounded by lavender fields, and the fact that a story from the past as well as the present intertwines.
In “The Haunting of Lavender House” Petra Collins was raised to believe she had no living family members and is taken by surprise when she learns that she has a grandmother in Croatia where her mom left long ago-to never return. She decides to visit her mom’s childhood home and learn of her past. As she familiarizes herself with the town of Tolba, a sweet man named Luka who questions her intentions, and gets closer with her grandmother, she also begins to learn of rumors about a mora that has haunted her family for generations. We are also following the perspective of Magdelena, a healer in 1985. The townsfolk make assumptions and spread false accusations about her intentions. She only wants to help people, but they have labelled her as a witch. One day a wealthy man begs her for help in healing his mother who has mysteriously fallen gravely ill - who is also the wife of the man running the Lavender business in their small community. Presented with an offer she cannot refuse - she agrees. Will this venture also lead to her demise?
I am so thrilled to see what this author does next! This was a brilliant debut and had the perfect elements needed to capture a bone chilling story that is generations old. Vivid nightmares, creepy figures, and an old house that remembers. The interlude chapters were quite honestly some of my favorite ones, as they provided insight on how the home holds the family’s trauma - even after all this time.
Magdalena was a complex and deeply misunderstood character. She was quick to hope, help, and provide grace to others that was not granted to her in return. She felt deeply and loved boldly - which in return led her to her downfall. Her story is truly one of feminine rage and heartbreak.
Petra was hopeful in bonding with her family’s past, but not so much others, and definitely not wanting nor needing an emotional, romantic connection. Scared to love too closely, she always kept her flings short and sweet. Nothing serious. I am so proud of her for demanding justice for the sins of her family’s past. An eye for an eye made them all blind, and she broke the generational trauma/curse that has followed them for centuries. She also allowed herself to break some of her old patterns and let love in.
Luka - I hope you find your found family because you truly deserve everything good in this world.
Very excited for this to be published 💜
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
So, first things first: I obviously didn’t read the blurb as thoroughly as I should have as I 1) don’t like dual-timeline novels and 2) don’t typically enjoy “travel to foreign country to reconnect with my roots” novels (as I find they typically devolve more into travelogue-type boring descriptions).
That said, 4/5 stars, fully enjoyed this novel and would recommend it. The past timeline never outweighed the present timeline, and the descriptions and role of Croatia was gorgeous but never devolved into the travelogue-trap.
I guess I should give you a bit of a plot summary, huh?
So, in present day, Petra travels to Croatia to connect with her only remaining family, her grandmother. She ends up staying in at her grandmother’s place, Lavender House, which has been in the family for generations and has some undoubtably creepy stuff going on.
In the past timeline, we follow a healer by the name of Magdalena, who is requested by the handsome young master of the house to heal his mother who is ailing from a mysterious disease.
What is the number 1 reason you should read this book, you ask? Easy: The atmosphere. Blue summer skies, lavender fields, the sounds of ocean waves, underlaid with dark secrets, haunting figures from Croatian folklore, and growing dread. The juxtaposition works perfectly, and creates the most beautiful atmosphere. Also, there’s something especially chilling about reading a book set in June 2026 in, well, June 2026.
Something else I really appreciated is how Petra wrestles with accepting both the beautiful and the ugly parts of her roots. I don’t want to say too much because the plot really plays with your expectations and twists around on you, but the ending was satisfying with just the right amount of heartwarming.
The only reason I didn’t give this 5 stars is because I didn’t quite buy into the love story with Petra and Luka, mostly because I feel like the dual-timeline aspect took away valuable time away from getting to know Luka better. But this also might be a me-thing as a romance has to be truly compelling to get me to buy into it. That said, their interactions were quite cute, and provided a necessary lightness to the otherwise darker sides of the plot.
Overall, gorgeous book and I’m looking forward to when preorders open up for a physical copy!
So, first things first: I obviously didn’t read the blurb as thoroughly as I should have as I 1) don’t like dual-timeline novels and 2) don’t typically enjoy “travel to foreign country to reconnect with my roots” novels (as I find they typically devolve more into travelogue-type boring descriptions).
That said, 4/5 stars, fully enjoyed this novel and would recommend it. The past timeline never outweighed the present timeline, and the descriptions and role of Croatia was gorgeous but never devolved into the travelogue-trap.
I guess I should give you a bit of a plot summary, huh?
So, in present day, Petra travels to Croatia to connect with her only remaining family, her grandmother. She ends up staying in at her grandmother’s place, Lavender House, which has been in the family for generations and has some undoubtably creepy stuff going on.
In the past timeline, we follow a healer by the name of Magdalena, who is requested by the handsome young master of the house to heal his mother who is ailing from a mysterious disease.
What is the number 1 reason you should read this book, you ask? Easy: The atmosphere. Blue summer skies, lavender fields, the sounds of ocean waves, underlaid with dark secrets, haunting figures from Croatian folklore, and growing dread. The juxtaposition works perfectly, and creates the most beautiful atmosphere. Also, there’s something especially chilling about reading a book set in June 2026 in, well, June 2026.
Something else I really appreciated is how Petra wrestles with accepting both the beautiful and the ugly parts of her roots. I don’t want to say too much because the plot really plays with your expectations and twists around on you, but the ending was satisfying with just the right amount of heartwarming.
The only reason I didn’t give this 5 stars is because I didn’t quite buy into the love story with Petra and Luka, mostly because I feel like the dual-timeline aspect took away valuable time away from getting to know Luka better. But this also might be a me-thing as a romance has to be truly compelling to get me to buy into it. That said, their interactions were quite cute, and provided a necessary lightness to the otherwise darker sides of the plot.
Overall, gorgeous book and I’m looking forward to when preorders open up for a physical copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
THE HAUNTING OF LAVENDER HOUSE was one of those rare books that felt as though it had been written specifically for me. Gothic horror? Romance? Family secrets? Historical? Lore? I'll tell you one thing... this book was so damn good it'll haunt me for a while.
What impressed me most was how immersive the setting felt. I love when gothic horror feels deeply immersive and atmospheric, and this book/author did that for me. The island came alive through every detail—the lavender fields, the stone villas, the salty sea air, the traditions, the language, and the folklore woven into the story. By the end, I wanted to book a flight to Croatia immediately. I also wanted to figure out a way to jump into the pages of this book.
The atmosphere is absolutely exquisite. GOD, IT WAS EVERYTHING... There is a constant sense of unease simmering beneath the surface, as though something is watching from the shadows beyond sight. The Lavender House itself almost becomes a character (which, if you know me, you know how much I fucking love this). Natalie Kikić creates a perfect gothic balance of beauty and dread, where every stunning description is accompanied by the feeling that something terrible is about to happen. And now she's got a fan in me because of it!!
It's so hard to put into words everything I loved because I just feel so happy right now after finishing this... I loved the folklore. It felt so fresh and unique. I loved the mystery around Petra's family history, and that made this a page turner. I loved the dual timelines that revealed pieces of the puzzle and heightened the suspense factor.
If you love gothic fiction, haunting family mysteries, atmospheric settings, folklore-inspired horror, and suspenseful page turners, THE HAUNTING OF LAVENDER HOUSE is a must-read!!
Dare I say, one of my favorite reads of the year?? Yes, perhaps it is!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the E-Arc.
What impressed me most was how immersive the setting felt. I love when gothic horror feels deeply immersive and atmospheric, and this book/author did that for me. The island came alive through every detail—the lavender fields, the stone villas, the salty sea air, the traditions, the language, and the folklore woven into the story. By the end, I wanted to book a flight to Croatia immediately. I also wanted to figure out a way to jump into the pages of this book.
The atmosphere is absolutely exquisite. GOD, IT WAS EVERYTHING... There is a constant sense of unease simmering beneath the surface, as though something is watching from the shadows beyond sight. The Lavender House itself almost becomes a character (which, if you know me, you know how much I fucking love this). Natalie Kikić creates a perfect gothic balance of beauty and dread, where every stunning description is accompanied by the feeling that something terrible is about to happen. And now she's got a fan in me because of it!!
It's so hard to put into words everything I loved because I just feel so happy right now after finishing this... I loved the folklore. It felt so fresh and unique. I loved the mystery around Petra's family history, and that made this a page turner. I loved the dual timelines that revealed pieces of the puzzle and heightened the suspense factor.
If you love gothic fiction, haunting family mysteries, atmospheric settings, folklore-inspired horror, and suspenseful page turners, THE HAUNTING OF LAVENDER HOUSE is a must-read!!
Dare I say, one of my favorite reads of the year?? Yes, perhaps it is!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the E-Arc.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title: The Haunting of Lavender House
Author: Natalie Kikic
Narrated by Natasha Soudek; Carlotta Brentan; and David DeSantos
Format: 🎧
Publisher: Harlequin Audio and Park Row Books
Genre: Thriller
Pub Date: October 26, 2026
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Pages: 320
A crumbling home surrounded by lavender fields.
A decades-long curse. A nightmare from Croatian folklore.
This story is an atmospheric gothic horror romance based on Croatian folklore and set on Tolba a fictional Croatian island. Story revolves around the concept of a ‘mora,’ a nightmare come to life in the form of a woman who has experienced unreturned love and now haunts and seeks revenge.
Story is told by Petra - 2026 by Magdalena-1895.
2026 ~Our Protagonist Petra recently lost the mother she is more than surprised to learn that her grandmother is alive and living on Tolba as her mother told her that her grandmother had died. Petra wants to visit her grandmother and heads to Croatia.
She finds her ancestral home, famed in lavender fields. She also discovers that the home is haunted. We follow Petra as she untangles the dark history of her family and tries to disengage this evil curse.
1895~ When Magdalena was asked to help the matriarch of Lavender House, she grasps the opportunity to reorient her reputation. As Magdalena races against time to heal the ailing woman, she finds herself unexpectedly falling for the son of the man responsible for her banishment.
Story kept me engaged. Definitely well written. Additionally, the story had experts delivering it- the narrators were great at performing the characters.
Always a plus for me is the Author’s Note at the end of the story. This was interesting in that author Natalie Kikic heritage is from Croatia so her input was authentic.
I want to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Audio and Park Row Books for this great audiobook.
Publishing Release Date October 20, 2026.
Author: Natalie Kikic
Narrated by Natasha Soudek; Carlotta Brentan; and David DeSantos
Format: 🎧
Publisher: Harlequin Audio and Park Row Books
Genre: Thriller
Pub Date: October 26, 2026
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Pages: 320
A crumbling home surrounded by lavender fields.
A decades-long curse. A nightmare from Croatian folklore.
This story is an atmospheric gothic horror romance based on Croatian folklore and set on Tolba a fictional Croatian island. Story revolves around the concept of a ‘mora,’ a nightmare come to life in the form of a woman who has experienced unreturned love and now haunts and seeks revenge.
Story is told by Petra - 2026 by Magdalena-1895.
2026 ~Our Protagonist Petra recently lost the mother she is more than surprised to learn that her grandmother is alive and living on Tolba as her mother told her that her grandmother had died. Petra wants to visit her grandmother and heads to Croatia.
She finds her ancestral home, famed in lavender fields. She also discovers that the home is haunted. We follow Petra as she untangles the dark history of her family and tries to disengage this evil curse.
1895~ When Magdalena was asked to help the matriarch of Lavender House, she grasps the opportunity to reorient her reputation. As Magdalena races against time to heal the ailing woman, she finds herself unexpectedly falling for the son of the man responsible for her banishment.
Story kept me engaged. Definitely well written. Additionally, the story had experts delivering it- the narrators were great at performing the characters.
Always a plus for me is the Author’s Note at the end of the story. This was interesting in that author Natalie Kikic heritage is from Croatia so her input was authentic.
I want to thank NetGalley and Harlequin Audio and Park Row Books for this great audiobook.
Publishing Release Date October 20, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an ARC of The Haunting of Lavender House by Natalie Kikic, for free from Harper Collins / Harlequin Trade Publishing through NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.
This incredible body of work made me want to go to Croatia, learn it's language and bath in the country's simplicity and traditions. It's been said in other reviews and I couldn't agree more that this is how story telling is done!!
You find yourself envious of the small island of "Tolba" a car-less town that has coffee as a leisure event rather than on the go in transit as fuel for your day. In turn that translates to supercharged chatter, gossip and a belief in age old superstition that runs through the veins of it's locals.
The smooth transition of the chapters between 1895 and 2026 was effortless and captivating. The ebb and flow of this novel is what you secretly yearn for with every book you pick up and lets face it, a lot of them do not deliver...
Reading The Haunting of Lavender House was like consuming my favorite meal or slipping into the coziest pajamas, this book welcomes you in and feeds your soul so effortlessly!! My interest was peak from the beginning and it never let up. I hope that the author knows to her very core what an incredible writer and story teller she is because in my opinion this was magnificent and truly one of my favorite all time reads!!!
The suspense and mystery and character development was so inviting. I hated to put it down! Croatia has made it to my bucket list thanks to this bad ass work of fiction!
Bravo Natalie Kikic!! You did not disappoint and I will be highly recommending this book and promptly adding you and your other books to my list to read!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for gifting me this ARC!!! I LOVED IT and would give it more stars if I could!!
This incredible body of work made me want to go to Croatia, learn it's language and bath in the country's simplicity and traditions. It's been said in other reviews and I couldn't agree more that this is how story telling is done!!
You find yourself envious of the small island of "Tolba" a car-less town that has coffee as a leisure event rather than on the go in transit as fuel for your day. In turn that translates to supercharged chatter, gossip and a belief in age old superstition that runs through the veins of it's locals.
The smooth transition of the chapters between 1895 and 2026 was effortless and captivating. The ebb and flow of this novel is what you secretly yearn for with every book you pick up and lets face it, a lot of them do not deliver...
Reading The Haunting of Lavender House was like consuming my favorite meal or slipping into the coziest pajamas, this book welcomes you in and feeds your soul so effortlessly!! My interest was peak from the beginning and it never let up. I hope that the author knows to her very core what an incredible writer and story teller she is because in my opinion this was magnificent and truly one of my favorite all time reads!!!
The suspense and mystery and character development was so inviting. I hated to put it down! Croatia has made it to my bucket list thanks to this bad ass work of fiction!
Bravo Natalie Kikic!! You did not disappoint and I will be highly recommending this book and promptly adding you and your other books to my list to read!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for gifting me this ARC!!! I LOVED IT and would give it more stars if I could!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book felt like being cursed by a ghost while falling in love on a fog-covered island and honestly? Inject it into my veins.
The Haunting of Lavender House is a gothic horror romance inspired by Croatian folklore and I genuinely ate this up. ( ALSO THE COVER IS GORGEOUS) This book was foggy, haunted, romantic, and deeply unsettling in the best way.
We follow Petra as she returns to her ancestral home on a fictional Croatian island only to uncover a terrifying curse tied to something called a mora… basically a nightmare spirit born from unrequited love that haunts people for eternity.
Which means Petra is trying to break a generational curse while ALSO trying not to fall in love because love literally puts lives at risk.
Yeah. I was obsessed.
The atmosphere in this book was UNREAL.
Dark family secrets. Haunted houses. Diary entries. Coastal gothic vibes. The feeling of dread creeping closer with every chapter.
And the alternating timelines were SO well done. Magdalena’s chapters slowly revealing the history behind the curse while Petra is actively living through the horror.... I was INVESTED.
This is definitely more of a slow-burn gothic story where the tension builds gradually, but once everything starts crashing together near the end... let's just say...my heart was STRESSED.
I do wish the romance had just a little more intensity and grit because Petra and Luka had SUCH good potential and I needed more emotional tension between them.
But overall.... As a gothic horror romance lover… this book absolutely felt made for me.
Highly recommended.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing Park Row for the gifted eARC through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Confession: books inspired by real folklore instantly become ten times more interesting to me.
The Haunting of Lavender House is a gothic horror romance inspired by Croatian folklore and I genuinely ate this up. ( ALSO THE COVER IS GORGEOUS) This book was foggy, haunted, romantic, and deeply unsettling in the best way.
We follow Petra as she returns to her ancestral home on a fictional Croatian island only to uncover a terrifying curse tied to something called a mora… basically a nightmare spirit born from unrequited love that haunts people for eternity.
Which means Petra is trying to break a generational curse while ALSO trying not to fall in love because love literally puts lives at risk.
Yeah. I was obsessed.
The atmosphere in this book was UNREAL.
Dark family secrets. Haunted houses. Diary entries. Coastal gothic vibes. The feeling of dread creeping closer with every chapter.
And the alternating timelines were SO well done. Magdalena’s chapters slowly revealing the history behind the curse while Petra is actively living through the horror.... I was INVESTED.
This is definitely more of a slow-burn gothic story where the tension builds gradually, but once everything starts crashing together near the end... let's just say...my heart was STRESSED.
I do wish the romance had just a little more intensity and grit because Petra and Luka had SUCH good potential and I needed more emotional tension between them.
But overall.... As a gothic horror romance lover… this book absolutely felt made for me.
Highly recommended.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing Park Row for the gifted eARC through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
Confession: books inspired by real folklore instantly become ten times more interesting to me.
May 31, 2026
5/5
Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and the author Natalie Kikic for gifting my with this ARC to review!
I had such a good time reading this book and love every second of it! Such a great debut novel and I’m excited to follow Kikic’s writing journey 😊
Liked:
-the butterfly effect. I love how in this book one choice (Magdalena choosing to help heal Ana) caused a ripple effect that lasted generations and caused so much heartache. She genuinely just wanted to help and to have that help spit on by everyone was horrible. I don’t blame her for being upset and bitter towards everyone’s attitude. People judge what they don’t understand and villainize anything that they deem as different from “normal.”
Also Nikola choosing to stay quiet about what the actual truth was added fuel to an already vengeful fire. His ancestors suffered because of his cowardice and shame.
-Croatia appreciation! The scenery, the people, the culture/customs, and language that Kikic weaves through this story is lovely. I love that it was a nod to their own heritage and experience with trying to connect with a culture that you had limited access to growing up.
-love is worth the risk. As a reformed commit phobe, I completely get Petra’s fear of truly allowing herself to fall in love with someone. I never wanted to have to lose someone I loved again. I watched my mom go through losing my dad and know first hand how it affects the people left behind. But I learned just like Petra did that despite the what ifs that could happen to that person, it’s worth the risk. Yeah it might not work out, or you get your heartbroken, or you lose the love of your life. But love is one of the greatest things we can experience in this life.
Disliked:
-the finale end scene with the Lavender House was a bit anticlimactic.
Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and the author Natalie Kikic for gifting my with this ARC to review!
I had such a good time reading this book and love every second of it! Such a great debut novel and I’m excited to follow Kikic’s writing journey 😊
Liked:
-the butterfly effect. I love how in this book one choice (Magdalena choosing to help heal Ana) caused a ripple effect that lasted generations and caused so much heartache. She genuinely just wanted to help and to have that help spit on by everyone was horrible. I don’t blame her for being upset and bitter towards everyone’s attitude. People judge what they don’t understand and villainize anything that they deem as different from “normal.”
Also Nikola choosing to stay quiet about what the actual truth was added fuel to an already vengeful fire. His ancestors suffered because of his cowardice and shame.
-Croatia appreciation! The scenery, the people, the culture/customs, and language that Kikic weaves through this story is lovely. I love that it was a nod to their own heritage and experience with trying to connect with a culture that you had limited access to growing up.
-love is worth the risk. As a reformed commit phobe, I completely get Petra’s fear of truly allowing herself to fall in love with someone. I never wanted to have to lose someone I loved again. I watched my mom go through losing my dad and know first hand how it affects the people left behind. But I learned just like Petra did that despite the what ifs that could happen to that person, it’s worth the risk. Yeah it might not work out, or you get your heartbroken, or you lose the love of your life. But love is one of the greatest things we can experience in this life.
Disliked:
-the finale end scene with the Lavender House was a bit anticlimactic.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for giving me a chance to review an ARC of this!
The Haunting of Lavender House is exactly the kind of gothic horror I find myself drawn to: a crumbling ancestral home, multigenerational family secrets, rich folklore, and an atmosphere so vivid I could practically smell the lavender fields and feel the sea breeze coming off the Adriatic.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its setting. Croatia and its folklore felt fresh and underrepresented in the genre, and the mora legend gave the haunting a unique identity that set it apart from the many gothic novels inspired by more familiar folklore. The dual timeline kept me invested, and I especially enjoyed uncovering how the past and present slowly intertwined. (Goodreads)
This had so many of my favorite elements: women carrying the weight of family history, inherited shame, an isolated estate, and the lingering question of whether the greatest danger comes from the supernatural or from the secrets people keep. Those themes are what elevate a gothic novel for me, and this book delivered on all of them.
The reason this landed at 4 stars instead of 5 is that, while I was completely immersed in the atmosphere and mystery, I never became quite as emotionally attached to the characters as I’d hoped. I wanted just a little more emotional depth to match the incredible setting, and I found myself admiring the story more than feeling completely consumed by it.
Even so, this is an impressive debut that stands out for its evocative setting, unique folklore, and haunting atmosphere. If you love gothic fiction featuring family curses, dual timelines, folklore, and slow-burning mysteries wrapped in beautiful, eerie scenery, I would absolutely recommend adding this one to your TBR.
The Haunting of Lavender House is exactly the kind of gothic horror I find myself drawn to: a crumbling ancestral home, multigenerational family secrets, rich folklore, and an atmosphere so vivid I could practically smell the lavender fields and feel the sea breeze coming off the Adriatic.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its setting. Croatia and its folklore felt fresh and underrepresented in the genre, and the mora legend gave the haunting a unique identity that set it apart from the many gothic novels inspired by more familiar folklore. The dual timeline kept me invested, and I especially enjoyed uncovering how the past and present slowly intertwined. (Goodreads)
This had so many of my favorite elements: women carrying the weight of family history, inherited shame, an isolated estate, and the lingering question of whether the greatest danger comes from the supernatural or from the secrets people keep. Those themes are what elevate a gothic novel for me, and this book delivered on all of them.
The reason this landed at 4 stars instead of 5 is that, while I was completely immersed in the atmosphere and mystery, I never became quite as emotionally attached to the characters as I’d hoped. I wanted just a little more emotional depth to match the incredible setting, and I found myself admiring the story more than feeling completely consumed by it.
Even so, this is an impressive debut that stands out for its evocative setting, unique folklore, and haunting atmosphere. If you love gothic fiction featuring family curses, dual timelines, folklore, and slow-burning mysteries wrapped in beautiful, eerie scenery, I would absolutely recommend adding this one to your TBR.
Read
June 2, 2026Natalie Kikić’s The Haunting of Lavender House is a captivating gothic tale that spans two timelines, blending a dark curse, Croatian folklore, and the supernatural into a gripping multigenerational mystery. It delves into family legacies, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of history across the Adriatic Sea. Back in 1895, we meet Magdalena, a healer who lives on the fringes of society. She gets a chance to help Lavender House’s matriarch, but things get complicated when she starts falling for the son of her biggest rival. Fast forward to 2026, where we meet Petra, who learns that her grandmother is still alive and living on a secluded Croatian island. As she travels to her family’s old home, she’s haunted by terrifying nightmares and the unsettling presence of a mora (a mythical spirit), which pushes her to uncover the truth about her family’s curse before it takes her as well. The book really shines at creating a sense of dread in its sunny, beautiful settings, blending gothic romance with historical and supernatural horror. The stories of Petra and Magdalena intertwine to create a rich, emotional foundation that drives the character-focused narratives. It offers a personal exploration of diaspora, generational trauma, and discovering one’s purpose.Folklore Integration: Reviewers are very impressed with Kikić’s expert use of Croatian folklore, which makes the supernatural threat feel genuine and unsettling, rather than just a cliché. I would whole heartedly recommend picking up The hunting of lavender House Natalie Kikic to any reader. Writer who would be most drawn to this are those who already love gothic novels.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this as an advanced reader copy.
I am not typically drawn to dual timelines, but The Haunting of Lavender House executes the trope so flawlessly that it completely shattered my hesitation. The narrative weaves a dark, atmospheric web between the past and the present, anchored by truly exceptional writing. The historical chapters are incredibly visceral; the writing is so sharp that you can physically feel Magdalena’s pain and panic bleeding through the pages as she navigates the shadows of her era.
The house itself is an absolute standout, acting as a living, breathing entity within the story. It possesses a sentient, unsettling charm—almost like a dark, gothic reflection of "La Casa" from Encanto. It is a brilliant touch that wraps you in an environment that is simultaneously enchanting and deeply creepy. Within these haunted walls, the character dynamics are remarkably grounded. In the present timeline, Karmela hits that perfectly frustrating, realistic note of a complex loving grandmother, giving the familial friction an authentic, abrasive edge.
Ultimately, Petra’s emotional arc is what anchors the entire book. Watching her evolve from a woman suffocating under the grief of losing her mother, to battling a bloodthirsty generational curse, to finally discovering where her true home lies, is a fiercely satisfying progression. The narrative pulls you relentlessly through the darkness, delivering a beautifully written, character-driven haunting that lingers long after the final page
I am not typically drawn to dual timelines, but The Haunting of Lavender House executes the trope so flawlessly that it completely shattered my hesitation. The narrative weaves a dark, atmospheric web between the past and the present, anchored by truly exceptional writing. The historical chapters are incredibly visceral; the writing is so sharp that you can physically feel Magdalena’s pain and panic bleeding through the pages as she navigates the shadows of her era.
The house itself is an absolute standout, acting as a living, breathing entity within the story. It possesses a sentient, unsettling charm—almost like a dark, gothic reflection of "La Casa" from Encanto. It is a brilliant touch that wraps you in an environment that is simultaneously enchanting and deeply creepy. Within these haunted walls, the character dynamics are remarkably grounded. In the present timeline, Karmela hits that perfectly frustrating, realistic note of a complex loving grandmother, giving the familial friction an authentic, abrasive edge.
Ultimately, Petra’s emotional arc is what anchors the entire book. Watching her evolve from a woman suffocating under the grief of losing her mother, to battling a bloodthirsty generational curse, to finally discovering where her true home lies, is a fiercely satisfying progression. The narrative pulls you relentlessly through the darkness, delivering a beautifully written, character-driven haunting that lingers long after the final page
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free ARC of this book.
I really enjoyed this book. It had the perfect amount of paranormal and realism for me. I also liked the split timeliness and how they converged. The story weaved together nicely at the end and had a solid resolution. I thought all of the characters were well rounded and showed solid development throughout the story. I also liked the themes of home and family and the patriarchal foundations of witchcraft and its punishment.
I especially appreciated the inclusion of Croatian culture and folklore. This is not a culture I'm familiar with and I found myself wanting to learn more about the country and is people.
There were a few small issues I had but they did not take away from the story overall. First, the main character Petra would occasionally mention a friend, Lily, back in San Francisco. I don't remember this character being mentioned earlier in the story so it felt weird when she was referred to. She didn't add anything to the story.
Second, I felt Luka's switch from being rude and dismissive to friendly was a little stark. I think he just came across a little too mean at the beginning so it seemed like and extreme switch once he realized he misjudged her.
Overall I'd rank this as one of my favorite modern Gothic stories. It had historical aspects, folklore, a romantic subplot, and the dark aesthetic I'm drawn to in these stories. I would definitely recommend this book!
I really enjoyed this book. It had the perfect amount of paranormal and realism for me. I also liked the split timeliness and how they converged. The story weaved together nicely at the end and had a solid resolution. I thought all of the characters were well rounded and showed solid development throughout the story. I also liked the themes of home and family and the patriarchal foundations of witchcraft and its punishment.
I especially appreciated the inclusion of Croatian culture and folklore. This is not a culture I'm familiar with and I found myself wanting to learn more about the country and is people.
There were a few small issues I had but they did not take away from the story overall. First, the main character Petra would occasionally mention a friend, Lily, back in San Francisco. I don't remember this character being mentioned earlier in the story so it felt weird when she was referred to. She didn't add anything to the story.
Second, I felt Luka's switch from being rude and dismissive to friendly was a little stark. I think he just came across a little too mean at the beginning so it seemed like and extreme switch once he realized he misjudged her.
Overall I'd rank this as one of my favorite modern Gothic stories. It had historical aspects, folklore, a romantic subplot, and the dark aesthetic I'm drawn to in these stories. I would definitely recommend this book!
June 29, 2026
The Haunting of Lavender House follows Petra as she journeys to Croatia to meet her grandmother for the first time. Petra’s mother is from the island of Tolba and has kept her family and her past a secret, telling Petra only a few lies. When she passes away Petra learns her grandmother is alive and is desperate for that connection. When she arrives to the island, she’s pretty much immediately not feeling welcome. She meets her grandmother’s neighbor, a handsome chef named Luka, who brings her to the family home, Lavender House. What was once a beautiful and blooming estate sits dark and disheveled. Petra’s grandmother, Karmela, has lived here alone ever since her daughter ran off to America. Petra and Karmela have build a sweet relationship tentatively, but the house does not feel right. Petra starts to have nightmares and sees things. She also starts to learn about the supposed curse on her family from people in the village. She doesn’t know what to believe, but she clings to the hope that it’s all lies and she can just continue to learn about her roots and her heritage. She befriends Luka and eventually they both want more even though they know Petra is leaving after a month. They’re really cute.
This book is really beautifully written. The folklore and the horror are done really well. I think the relationship with Luka left a lot to be desired, but other than that I really enjoyed this book!
This book is really beautifully written. The folklore and the horror are done really well. I think the relationship with Luka left a lot to be desired, but other than that I really enjoyed this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Haunting of Lavender House is much more of a Gothic, atmospheric horror than a book focused on scares or graphic horror. The supernatural elements are there, but for me the biggest strength was the atmosphere and the tragic story behind the curse.
Interestingly, I found myself looking forward to the chapters set in the past more than the present-day storyline. I was invested in learning how everything came to be, and those sections carried the most emotional weight for me.
Lavender House itself felt like a character, which I always enjoy in haunted house stories. The writing complemented that Gothic atmosphere well—beautiful without becoming difficult to read.
One area where I wished the novel went further was its Croatian setting and folklore. I appreciated seeing folklore that isn't commonly explored, but I wanted to feel more immersed in the culture itself. Beyond the folklore and occasional Croatian dialogue, I didn't always get a strong sense of the village or its people. I think leaning further into the local traditions, customs, and community would have made the story even richer.
The ending tied the past and present together in a satisfying way, although some of the later developments felt predictable.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. If you like slow-burn Gothic horror, haunted houses, family curses, romance woven into the story, and atmospheric writing over constant scares, this is definitely worth picking up.
Interestingly, I found myself looking forward to the chapters set in the past more than the present-day storyline. I was invested in learning how everything came to be, and those sections carried the most emotional weight for me.
Lavender House itself felt like a character, which I always enjoy in haunted house stories. The writing complemented that Gothic atmosphere well—beautiful without becoming difficult to read.
One area where I wished the novel went further was its Croatian setting and folklore. I appreciated seeing folklore that isn't commonly explored, but I wanted to feel more immersed in the culture itself. Beyond the folklore and occasional Croatian dialogue, I didn't always get a strong sense of the village or its people. I think leaning further into the local traditions, customs, and community would have made the story even richer.
The ending tied the past and present together in a satisfying way, although some of the later developments felt predictable.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. If you like slow-burn Gothic horror, haunted houses, family curses, romance woven into the story, and atmospheric writing over constant scares, this is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was nothing short of enthralling. From the very first page, I was completely drawn into Petra's story. The writing was so vivid and immersive that I felt like I was Petra—experiencing every fear, doubt, and discovery right alongside her.
The Mora haunting brought such a chilling and unique element to the story. The atmosphere was beautifully crafted, balancing suspense and mystery in a way that kept me hooked the entire time. Every detail felt intentional, and the tension built perfectly throughout the novel.
What I especially appreciated was that beneath the haunting and mystery, the story explored deeper themes like belonging and imposter syndrome. Petra's struggles felt authentic and relatable, adding emotional depth to an already compelling story.
I also loved how the book wrapped up. The ending felt satisfying and hopeful, tying everything together in a way that left me feeling fulfilled rather than devastated. It's rare to find a haunting story that delivers both chills and heart, but this one accomplished exactly that.
This was an unforgettable read that blended folklore, suspense, and meaningful themes into a truly captivating story. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment and would highly recommend it to anyone who loves atmospheric mysteries with emotional depth. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Mora haunting brought such a chilling and unique element to the story. The atmosphere was beautifully crafted, balancing suspense and mystery in a way that kept me hooked the entire time. Every detail felt intentional, and the tension built perfectly throughout the novel.
What I especially appreciated was that beneath the haunting and mystery, the story explored deeper themes like belonging and imposter syndrome. Petra's struggles felt authentic and relatable, adding emotional depth to an already compelling story.
I also loved how the book wrapped up. The ending felt satisfying and hopeful, tying everything together in a way that left me feeling fulfilled rather than devastated. It's rare to find a haunting story that delivers both chills and heart, but this one accomplished exactly that.
This was an unforgettable read that blended folklore, suspense, and meaningful themes into a truly captivating story. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment and would highly recommend it to anyone who loves atmospheric mysteries with emotional depth. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
All the elements of a bestseller!
The Haunting of Lavender House combines the perfect mix of spookiness and romance. It will appeal not only to gothic horror fans, but also to readers of romance, women’s fiction and general fiction.
This story is so atmospheric; while reading it after pruning my lavender plants, I questioned whether a whiff of lavender was from the oils still lingering on my hands or conjured by the beautiful descriptions within the book. Croatian phrases, vivid imagery, and historic references, shown through the eyes of Petra, the modern-day main protagonist, and Magdalena, a healer who lived in 1895, transported me to the shores of the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Croatian folklore about a mora is woven so skillfully into this tale that the gothic horror feels believable. While all the characters are well drawn, my favorite of their voices might be the house. I thought the pacing of this story was perfect. It left me with a new viewpoint on the cascading effect of superstitions and generational trauma.
Natalie Kikik is a masterful storyteller. I highly recommend this novel and can’t wait to read what she writes next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing/Park Row, and the author for a copy of an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
The Haunting of Lavender House combines the perfect mix of spookiness and romance. It will appeal not only to gothic horror fans, but also to readers of romance, women’s fiction and general fiction.
This story is so atmospheric; while reading it after pruning my lavender plants, I questioned whether a whiff of lavender was from the oils still lingering on my hands or conjured by the beautiful descriptions within the book. Croatian phrases, vivid imagery, and historic references, shown through the eyes of Petra, the modern-day main protagonist, and Magdalena, a healer who lived in 1895, transported me to the shores of the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Croatian folklore about a mora is woven so skillfully into this tale that the gothic horror feels believable. While all the characters are well drawn, my favorite of their voices might be the house. I thought the pacing of this story was perfect. It left me with a new viewpoint on the cascading effect of superstitions and generational trauma.
Natalie Kikik is a masterful storyteller. I highly recommend this novel and can’t wait to read what she writes next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing/Park Row, and the author for a copy of an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2026
I would like to thank Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with this eARC for review consideration.
The following is my personal perspective on The Haunting of Lavender House by Natalie Kikic.
This story dives deep into Croatian folklore. After her mother’s recent passing, Petra embarks on a journey to her ancestral home on a remote Croatian island. A home which her mother fled as a young woman, leaving behind her family and the curse that tormented them for years.
Petra now finds herself standing on the land that has been in her family for decades, meeting a grandmother she has never known, and staying in a house that had a dark past.
I thought The Haunting of Lavender House was poetically written and the storytelling quite engaging. I really enjoy when a book takes you back and forth through timelines and in this case, it was diary entries of a healer who fell in love with a man well above her status.
The Haunting of Lavender House is a story of love, betrayal and revenge with a supernatural twist to it. Even the house itself has a POV (which threw me a bit, if I’m honest).
I found the Author’s notes quite interesting and felt that the things which inspired her added another layer to the story.
3.5 ⭐️
The following is my personal perspective on The Haunting of Lavender House by Natalie Kikic.
This story dives deep into Croatian folklore. After her mother’s recent passing, Petra embarks on a journey to her ancestral home on a remote Croatian island. A home which her mother fled as a young woman, leaving behind her family and the curse that tormented them for years.
Petra now finds herself standing on the land that has been in her family for decades, meeting a grandmother she has never known, and staying in a house that had a dark past.
I thought The Haunting of Lavender House was poetically written and the storytelling quite engaging. I really enjoy when a book takes you back and forth through timelines and in this case, it was diary entries of a healer who fell in love with a man well above her status.
The Haunting of Lavender House is a story of love, betrayal and revenge with a supernatural twist to it. Even the house itself has a POV (which threw me a bit, if I’m honest).
I found the Author’s notes quite interesting and felt that the things which inspired her added another layer to the story.
3.5 ⭐️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5⭐️
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Harper Collins for providing me this ARC to review!
I really enjoyed this Croatian thriller/horror novel! A lovely rainy day fall read for those who love a good twist and a sweet love story. From 70% onward was especially gripping as everything started to reveal itself.
I would’ve loved to rate this book higher, especially because the last 30% of the book was so good, but I felt the pacing for a majority of the book really made it hard to get through. It just felt that it was longer than necessary. I understanding needing to develop the relationships between the characters, but I felt there was a lot of filler with no real payoff. There was also a decent amount of repetitiveness with certain situations, and I felt like I was reading the same thing over and over.
While there’s definitely some horror aspects, I think this book is more aligned with a paranormal thriller than a horror novel.
That said, I’m glad I stuck with it, because everything really did come together nicely! I believe though that the payoff would’ve been the same with less filler chapters and repetitive scenes.
Definitely worth the read, and to put on the TBR for the fall!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Harper Collins for providing me this ARC to review!
I really enjoyed this Croatian thriller/horror novel! A lovely rainy day fall read for those who love a good twist and a sweet love story. From 70% onward was especially gripping as everything started to reveal itself.
I would’ve loved to rate this book higher, especially because the last 30% of the book was so good, but I felt the pacing for a majority of the book really made it hard to get through. It just felt that it was longer than necessary. I understanding needing to develop the relationships between the characters, but I felt there was a lot of filler with no real payoff. There was also a decent amount of repetitiveness with certain situations, and I felt like I was reading the same thing over and over.
While there’s definitely some horror aspects, I think this book is more aligned with a paranormal thriller than a horror novel.
That said, I’m glad I stuck with it, because everything really did come together nicely! I believe though that the payoff would’ve been the same with less filler chapters and repetitive scenes.
Definitely worth the read, and to put on the TBR for the fall!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
📜🪻Book Review🪻📜
The Haunting of Lavender House
-Natalie Kikic
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Firstly, thank you @NetGalley, @HarperCollins, and @Natkikicwrites for the opportunity to review an ARC of The Haunting of Lavender House!
After losing her mother, Petra longs for family connection as well as answers. When she finds letters from an estranged grandmother, she embraces the opportunity to connect with her only remaining relative and sets off to her ancestral home in Croatia. Gossip isn't the only thing stirred to life when this newcomer takes up residence within the infamous Lavender House. While Petra becomes acquainted with her grandmother's small town as well as the handsome-yet-moody neighbor, Luka, she begins to wonder if there’s any truth in the rumors that have followed her family for generations. When island superstitions become more than just stories, Petra learns the truth of her inheritance and the gravity of her ancestors' choices.
A contemporary gothic told through two timelines, The Haunting of Lavender House is definitely worth the read! The Croatian coastal scenes and enticing folklore offer a refreshing spin on this genre. I flew through it!
#TheHauntingofLavenderHouse#NetGalley#ARC#gothic
The Haunting of Lavender House
-Natalie Kikic
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Firstly, thank you @NetGalley, @HarperCollins, and @Natkikicwrites for the opportunity to review an ARC of The Haunting of Lavender House!
After losing her mother, Petra longs for family connection as well as answers. When she finds letters from an estranged grandmother, she embraces the opportunity to connect with her only remaining relative and sets off to her ancestral home in Croatia. Gossip isn't the only thing stirred to life when this newcomer takes up residence within the infamous Lavender House. While Petra becomes acquainted with her grandmother's small town as well as the handsome-yet-moody neighbor, Luka, she begins to wonder if there’s any truth in the rumors that have followed her family for generations. When island superstitions become more than just stories, Petra learns the truth of her inheritance and the gravity of her ancestors' choices.
A contemporary gothic told through two timelines, The Haunting of Lavender House is definitely worth the read! The Croatian coastal scenes and enticing folklore offer a refreshing spin on this genre. I flew through it!
#TheHauntingofLavenderHouse#NetGalley#ARC#gothic
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Haunting of Lavender House is a lyrical, atmospheric historical horror book. Petra’s mother died in a car crash and she decides to visit her ancestral homeland of Croatia. She meets her grandmother on the fictional island of Tolba, her mother always said she was dead. Petra visits the home with lavender fields surrounding it. She soon learns that a lot of folklore surrounds the family home as well.
The other POV is from 1895, where Magdalena agrees to help an old lady and hopes to repair her reputation.
In these intersecting timelines, both Petra and Magdalena find love and confuse it with belonging.
I enjoyed a lot of things about this book. Both of the main characters are compelling, flawed but likable. The setting and incorporating the Slavic language and folklore legends. For me, the pacing was a bit off, the dialogue seemed stilted at times and the climax was rushed, although it was very thrilling.
I would recommend this book for lovers of gothic horror, atmospheric, creepy reads.
Thanks to NetGalley and park Row for the ARC. Book to be published 10/20/26.
The other POV is from 1895, where Magdalena agrees to help an old lady and hopes to repair her reputation.
In these intersecting timelines, both Petra and Magdalena find love and confuse it with belonging.
I enjoyed a lot of things about this book. Both of the main characters are compelling, flawed but likable. The setting and incorporating the Slavic language and folklore legends. For me, the pacing was a bit off, the dialogue seemed stilted at times and the climax was rushed, although it was very thrilling.
I would recommend this book for lovers of gothic horror, atmospheric, creepy reads.
Thanks to NetGalley and park Row for the ARC. Book to be published 10/20/26.
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