Spellbound

The Haunting of Castle Keyvnor #4

by Claire Delacroix

The Haunting of Castle Keyvnor, Book #4
Greetings,
In regards to the Matter of the un-entailed Estate of the late-Jonathan Hambly, 10th Earl of Banfield, be advised that your attendance is urgently required at the reading of his lordship’s Last Will & Testament, to take place on November 1st of this year at Castle Keyvnor in Bocka Morrow, Cornwall.
Regards,
Mr. Timothy Hunt, Esq.

When the late-Earl of Banfield’s distant relations descend upon Bocka Morrow, they’ll find gypsies, witches, pixies, smugglers, and one very haunted castle. And if they’re lucky, they might just fall in love while they’re there.

SPELLBOUND, The Haunting of Castle Keyvnor

Claire Delacroix's Something Wicked This Way Comes
Seven years ago, Sophia Brisbane lost everything—her father, her brother, her family fortune—but worse, was rejected by the man she loved. She’s determined not to yearn for the past and its pleasures—until she encounters Lucien de Roye again. Although he knew Sophia could never be his own, Lucien vowed to retrieve her squandered inheritance—even wagering his very soul to a demon. When Sophia learns what he has done, no force on heaven or earth will convince her to let him pay the demon’s due, no matter what the cost to herself.

Jane Charles's Her Gypsy Lord
Lady Charlotte Beck craves just one little adventure, which is nearly impossible as her older brothers are the most diligent of chaperones. However, when her family is summoned to Castle Keyvnor for the reading of her great-uncle’s will, Charlotte can hardly contain her excitement. Ghosts, magic and gypsies seem to be the ingredients to the adventure she’s been searching for. However when she meets Adam Vail in the nearby gypsy camp, it may be another adventure all together that calls to her soul…if she can survive Castle Keyvnor and one very murderous ghost.

Claudia Dain's Lady Ghost and Lord A Love Story
Hal Mort, Viscount Blackwater, visits Keyvnor Castle in the company of friends and atop his new stallion. How was he to know that ghosts awaited him? Hal does not believe in ghosts. Unfortunately for Hal, the ghosts take an interest in him. One ghost wants to see him married to the lovely Lady Morgan. Another ghost is just as determined to see him slip the noose. As the ghosts work their supernatural magic, Hal can't determine if the intense attraction he feels for Morgan is coming from him or from them. And after a few magical kisses, he's not sure he cares.

The Haunting of Castle Keyvnor includes twelve Regency romance novellas. Don’t miss the anthologies Vexed, Bedeviled, and Mystified.

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Historical, Anthologies, Regency, Paranormal, Fantasy

307 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 20, 2016

About the author

New York Times bestselling author Claire Delacroix sold her first book in 1992, an historical romance called ROMANCE OF THE ROSE. Since then, she has published over sixty romance novels and novellas, and has also been published under the names Claire Cross and Deborah Cooke. She has an honours degree in history, with a focus on medieval studies. She is an avid reader of medieval vernacular literature, fairy tales and fantasy novels.

For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...

In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.

Visit her two websites here:
http://www.delacroix.net
http://www.deborahcooke.com

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Reviews

[Paige · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Spellbound. I particularly enjoyed the Halloween seasonal setting at the haunted Castle Keyvnor in Regency era Cornwall. As is typical with anthologies, I enjoyed some of the stories more than others. I found two of the three novellas to be especially enjoyable, with the third not my personal preference.

This is the fourth and final book in The Haunting of Castle Keyvnor series. I like the concept for this series, which contains a total of twelve related novellas by multiple authors. All the stories take place around All Hallows Eve as family and friends gather at the haunted Castle Keyvnor for the reading of a will. This book can be read as a standalone.

[Maura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting that the final installment, with the most notable authors (for me anyway) had the most lackluster stories...although Claire Delacroix's was the most unique so far.

Something Wicked This Way Comes - Claire Delacroix - 3 /5 - I’d been looking forward to this since the hero, Lucien de Roye was mentioned having a dark presence hovering over him in a past book. Of course here we learn that Lucien is bound to a voodoo loa, having sold his soul to the demon who has granted him 7 years of luck and invincibility so he can earn his revenge against the man who destroyed the life of the woman he loved, whom he believes is dead. But Sophie isn’t actually dead, she’s a governess hiding from the man who swore he’d have her and her inheritance. When she encounters Lucien at Castle Keyvnor, he seems much changed and much darker, but she soon learns what he’s up to and sets out to save him. This was okay - it seemed that Lucien and Sophie’s reunion was lacking emotional charge, given that he was willing to sell his soul to get everything back for a woman he thinks is dead. That is some serious love and devotion and they barely had any passion between them. It was a bit disappointing in that respect. But the whole Faustian theme is quite dark and disturbing and held my interest. And talk about darkness...the heroine has untold depths of darkness when she convinces the villain to offer up his soul in a wager - eek.

Her Gypsy Lord - Jane Charles - 3 /5 - Another one I’ve been waiting for, since this was the story that was mentioned in the very first book and mentioned recurrently in each and every one thereafter. Charlotte is thrilled to be at Castle Keyvnor, but she doesn’t believe in ghosts. She escapes her brothers’ protection and heads off to the gypsy camp for a lark, where she meetts Adam Vail, the next Earl of Lynwood and grandson to the gypsy fortune teller who warns her that a ghost wants her dead. She laughs, but she stops laughing when an unseen force attempts to strangle her. Adam, who can sense Charlotte and him are meant to be together, steps in to offer protection. This was very insta-lovey, with a soul mate explanation. That’s typically okay for me, but it felt off in this story, like it was too fast or not deep enough or something. And Charlotte was just a touch irritating and rubbed me the wrong way. Nothing overt really, just that. Adam I liked. I also wish we’d get a story for Anthony…

Lady Ghost & Lord Death: A Love Story - 2 /5 - Four characters here. Two of them are ghosts - Nell & Roland who were lovers several hundred years ago and, after Roland was killed in battle, Nell killed herself to be with him. Now, they’re living in sort of misery together and Nell decides to break their boredom by playing matchmaker to Hal Mort, Lord Blackwater and Morgan Hambly. At first, Roland is opposed and does what he can to keep them apart. But Hal and Morgan are drawn to each other anyway, with or without their help. Except, Morgan doesn’t believe in ghosts and it seems that Hal does...or does he? That wasn’t clear here - he interacts with them and still swears he doesn’t believe in them. There was a clear lack of character depth (or development) here, mostly because you’ve got 4 lead characters and 60 pages to work with. The story of Nell and Roland was stronger, while Morgan and Hal, who should have been the focus since they’re living and whatnot, just sort of felt secondary to the story. And it’s arguable that Nell and Roland got a happy ending, while Hal and Morgan did - although they don’t know the first thing about one another, so that’s still subject to debate too.

[Romancing the Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by the author

The three stories in Spellbound all have the Castle Keyvnor located in Bocka Morrow in Cornwall, England in the forefront of each story along with the death of the current earl but also a lot of ghostly activity.  Spellbound continues with stories from Vexed , Bedeviled and Mystified , the first three books in the series, concerning some of the same characters and circumstances as well as others we meet.  The castle is considered to be haunted by many and even those that don't believe in ghosts and magic seem to in these stories. The twelve stories in the series surround the reading of the late earl's will which is why everyone is visiting the castle whether they want to be there or not.  The stories are short and very quick reads with well defined characters and plots that left me wanting more. The Earl's Will is at the back of each book and gives closure to what the stories are about.

Something Wicked This Way Comes by Claire Delacroix is a little different since the prologue begins in London in 1811 whereas the first chapter begins in London in 1804 and then switches to 1811 and the castle.  There were quite a few twists and turns to the story as well as a darkness since Lucien sold his sold to the devil, literally!   This is Sophia and Lucien's story and the promise he made her seven years before and the life she escaped from.  There is a very different ending than I predicted but not enough closure.  An epilogue would have given me the closure I was looking for.  I have not previously read books by Delacroix or her alter-ego Deborah Cooke.

Her Gypsy Lord by Jane Charles was one of my favorite books in the series with lots of gypsies but also a malevolent ghost who has it in for Lady Charlotte because of whom she looks like!  Adam, half gypsy and half peer, and Charlotte have an instant attraction that's combustible.  He and her brothers try to protect her from the evil surrounding her with his grandmother's help.  His grandmother gave her a talisman that she made especially for her when Charlotte went to have her fortune read.  Charlotte loves adventures and she sees a future with Adam as one adventure after another!  There are family and friends, ghosts, the gypsies, magic, smuggling, compromise, loving and love.  There is nice closure and a happily ever after.  Charles is another new to me author and I will be adding some of her books to my always growing TBR piles.

Lady Ghost and Lord Death: A Love Story by Claudia Dain has ghosts, Nell and Roland, involving themselves in matchmaking with Lady Morgan, one of the new earl's daughters, and Viscount Blackwater.  The ghosts have their own battles going since they've been together more than three hundred years but were only lovers and never married.  They seem to have lover's quarrels even when they are matchmaking and especially when near Morgan and Hal.  Hal understands what is happening around him with the ghosts but Morgan does not want to give credence to them and doesn't believe in ghosts.  There was some closure but not enough and the story seemed to end abruptly.  An epilogue would have helped give the closure I needed along with the happily ever after that was only alluded to.  Dain is an author I know of but have not read any of her books.  I hope to rectify that in the future and see if there's better closure.

[Kelly Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire Delacroix's Something Wicked This Way Comes 

This one is very different. I wasn't really into the selling his soul thing, but it made sense as it went on. I loved how they ran into each other again and both were shocked to see each other. I did love the ending and how everything wrapped up perfectly with one person getting what they deserved.

Sophia has been doing what she must to keep going and be hidden. I liked her because she spoke her mind and was quick to make a plan. Her backstory will make you understand her a lot.

Lucien's heart was in the right place when he made that wager. I was afraid that it really changed into a different person, but the real him kept coming through. I did like that he had planned everything out.

Jane Charles's Her Gypsy Lord

Love the details in this one! The ghost in this one is one of the most terrifying out of all of them. I loved how his grandmother's was in everything and working her own magic. Her brothers can make you laugh with how protective they are and how they act about things. I loved the wedding and the stuff with his grandfather.

Charlotte definitely loves adventure and wants proof before she will believe. I loved how determined she was when she wanted to do something and that she followed her heart. She was good at shocking her brothers.

Adam is one of a kind because he is in between two very different worlds with his family. I loved him from the start because of how he doesn't look down on anyone. He is the perfect match for her.

Claudia Dain's Lady Ghost and Lord Death: A Love Story

I loved how different this one was because the ghosts were a big part of the story. They instantly had something between them and just needed a bit of help. There are two stories going on that affect each other and it plays out perfectly for everyone. The ending was amazing and I didn't want it to end. 

Morgan is a girl that does not believe in anything that she has been told about the castle. I loved her personality and that she wasn't fazed by everything in the castle even though it affected her. She did jump to a conclusion at one point but realized she shouldn't have. 

Hal didn't know what the ghost had in store for him. I loved that he was more open than he thought and how much he cared about his horse and dog. He was nothing like his nickname, but it could creep you out at first.

[Pat Raab · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the collection, set as the stories are in the same place, although from very different viewpoints. What with gypsies, murdered brides, strife between a pair of ghosts who are trying to play Cupid for guests at the castle, and a gentleman who sold his soul in order to "do right" by the woman he loved but never got to marry - Lots of shenanigans and delightfully humorous despite the dark history.

[Stasia Bruhn · Rating 1 out of 5]

To b quite honest I read one story and even though it was okay..I just don't care enough to read the others..So after a long time saying I will go back to it and finish I made the decision I will not..If I have to try to talk myself into reading a book or in this case finishing it it is not doing it's job which is entertaining me..It failed..

[Debbie Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

THREE GREAT STORIES

We enjoyed the different authors in this book. It almost was like the same author wrote all three of them. Thank you for an interesting ghost story, Danny and Debbie Scott.

[Dorothy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spellbound, not quite

I began the set with the beginning of Spellbound and was intrigued so I bought the entire set. By the time I got to the last two tales, I was no longer captivated and had a hard time remembering names.

[Julia Dawn Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Really Great Read

I started this book this morning and I had to finish it before
I ate my lunch. It has ghosts and romance to keep you reading to see what happens next.

[Rosario Barrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

A haunted castle in Cornwall

I just loved this anthology of Historical romance! Different authors -same families and same setting. Great writing. I will be reading the other books!

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Loved it! A wonderful romantic story with a little of everything you could want in a book! Enjoyed it immensely!

[Sonia Knippshild · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easy read.

[Margaret A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review

I thoroughly enjoyed these series of stories. I loved how the characters were interwoven with the other sets. Thank you all! A definite read for all.

[Mary Miller · Rating 2 out of 5]

Haunted castle

The first few stories were interesting but this last one was just crazy and I couldnt wait to be done with it.

[Becca]

Only read Claire Delacroix's installment. I will post the review on that separate book.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Haunting of Castle Keyvnor is a collection of 4 books, each containing three novellas by different authors, the stories all taking place in and around the notoriously haunted Castle Keyvnor during the gathering of the family and friends of the recently deceased Jonathan Hambly, the Earl of Banfield, for the reading of his will. The books can be read in any order, as all the stories take place concurrently. It's a charming device because while each story is a standalone complete unto itself, many of the same characters appear and reappear in each of the novellas, so we get to observe them in different circumstances. All the stories have a little (or a lot) of supernatural flavor, with ghosts, pixies, demons and the like either aiding, thwarting or trying to murder the main characters. Having a collection like this is as delightful as going to a Tapas bar and sampling fabulously prepared tidbits of food—the tastings make you want more! I definitely plan to seek out more works by some of the authors who I'd never read before. I thoroughly enjoyed each of the collections.

Claire Delacroix's "Something Wicked This Way Comes”
The first selection, "Something Wicked This Way Comes” is, as is usual for Ms. Delacroix, beautifully written in language that seems completely natural for the time period in which it is set. Ms. Sophia Brisbane is hiding from a spurned betrothed far from London, disguised as her deceased governess. Thinking Sophia dead, with nothing to lose, the love of her life, Lucien de Roye, has made deal with a demon to recover the property that had been swindled from her family by her jilted betrothed. When Lucien finds out that Sophia still lives, he is still willing to live up to his side of the deal so that Sophia can resume her privileged life. Sophia, however, is determined to save Lucien and have him for her own. This is a lovely story.

Jane Charles's "Her Gypsy Lord”
This story is good, though not quite as well written as the first and last selections. Lady Charlotte Beck is targeted by one of the ghostly inhabitants of Castle Keyvnor for a ghastly demise. Adam Vail, a member of a local gypsy camp, takes it upon himself to save her life, sparring with her overbearing and overprotective brothers in the process.

Claudia Dain's "Lady Ghost and Lord Death: A Love Story"
This novella is hilarious because two of the ghostly inhabitants of Keyvnor Castle, a pair of lovers who have been dead for over 300 years, are still bickering over the proper course of action regarding two potential lovers in the here and now. Nell, the female ghost, “self-murdered” by eating a multitude of oysters (to which she was allergic) upon hearing of the death of her lover Roland. Expecting him to be eternally impressed by the romanticism of such a sacrifice, she nevertheless constantly accuses him of infidelity. Each of the ghosts tries to influence the future of the young lovers to suit what they believe is in their best interest.
Copy gifted by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spellbound : The haunting of Castle Keyvnor is the fourth in a series of 4 collections of novellas – all taking place at Castle Keyvnor and its neighboring area when a collection of relatives come to the Castle for the reading of the will of the deceased Earl of Banfield. Spellbound contains stories by Claire Delacroix, Jane Charles, and Claudia Dain.
In the first story, Clair Delacroix tells the tale of Lucien deRoye, a man who has sold his sold to a demon for the chance to win back the fortune of the woman he loved. Lucien met Sophia when he was working for her father, Mr Brisbane. Her father was rich but in trade. He was about to be knighted and his son, Charles, was ready to move up in society – he was already practicing the drinking and gambling. Thinking he was doing something good, Sophia’s father betrothed her to the Marquess of Lyndenhurst who wanted her for her fortune. Almost as soon as he was knighted, her father died leaving her brother Charles in charge. Charles quickly loses everything to the Marquess and then he dies. The last thing Lucien does before leaving is vow that he will restore her fortunes. Sophia disappears by switching identities with her governess who also had died. Seven years later, Lucien is about to win back the last piece of Sophia’s fortune. He won everything back not by luck but by selling his soul and on midnight of All Hallows Eve, the demon will be there to collect. Miss Findlay (aka Sophia) travels to Castle Keyvnor with her 2 charges and their grandmother for the reading of the will and Lucien recognizes her at once. Their feeling have never changed but can she stop the disaster that is about to take place? Can she break the curse? Can they find the happiness that they truly deserve? This story is heartwarming and at times heart breaking. This is a story that shows how far someone will go to save someone they love.
In the second story of this book, Jane Charles tells the story of Charlotte Beck. We met and heard part of Charlotte’s story in the Ava Stone selection in Vexed. That was told from Charlotte’s cousin Cassy’s point of view. Cassy is the obedient cousin, but Charlotte is the adverterous one. Her stry starts when she goes the Gypsy camp to get her fortune told. When she arrives she notices an attractive man chopping wood. It turns out that Adam Vail’s grandmother is the one who can tell her fortune. Adam is not only part gypsy, he is now also his grandfather’s heir – he will eventually become Viscount Lynwood. Charlotte’s fortune is not exactly what she expects. Instead of talk about finding her true love, Adam’s grandmother begins to put together a charm to ward off evil spirits. It seems that Charlotte looks like Lady Helena a woman who was strangled 200 years before by Lord Tyrell. Now he haunts the castle and has strangled multiple women who look like Helena – now it’s Charlotte’s turn. Only the gypsy charm will protect her but she must wear it at all times. When she takes it off, she is strangled by an invisible force. No one would have believed it except her brothers saw her lifted into the air and the bruise marks on her throat. Not even moving to Adam’s home is enough to keep her safe. There’s one thing that will save her – she must marry and consummate her marriage. Luckily, Adam and Charlotte both fell in love at first sight and he was already planning on asking for her hand. Even a special license could take a week to arrive and they have no time to waste. The happily ever after was hard won but well worth the struggle. The characters are well written and the ghost is truly frightening. Tis was a great addition to the collection.
The final story in this trilogy is written by Claudia Dain. This is perhaps one of the most interesting of the stories in this collection. Nell and Roland are two ghosts haunting the castle. Nell decides to play matchmaker with two of the guests. Harold (Hal) Mort, Lord Blackwater wasn’t invited to the reading – he came with friends. Lady Morgan is the daughter of the new Earl of Banfield. At first, Roland tries to thwart Nell’s plan but as the two humans grow closer, Nell and Roland also begin to rekindle their past love. In a castle where the ghosts seem to be trying to scare or hurt people these two ghosts are working for good. Both couples are interesting and delightful characters and their stories were a joy to read.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Dee Deacon Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something Wicked This Way Comes – Claire Delacroix

Sophia Brisbane had lost everything she held dear and changed identities to escape the devil who took it all. After years living in an out of the way in an obscure part of England with a position in a peer’s household Sophia’s sense of security is threatened when she travels with the family to the reading of a will. The man she loved in her past brings back all the things she’s tried to forget. When she realizes what he has sacrificed can she convince him to remain or will she now lose forever?

Lucien de Roye has had seven years of the devil’s own good luck. Seven years breaking a promise to a beloved family member to keep a promise to the lady he loved; a lady he loved and lost. Now as the seventh year comes to a close he is moments away from regaining all that was taken from his lady love. The last part of his plan culminates in the same area as Castle Keyvnor where he has been summoned for the reading of a will. A chance encounter changes Lucien’s feelings but not his mind – he knows he must pay his part of the deal made long ago.

Loved this tale of love lost and found again. Ms. Delacroix starts with an attention getter and doesn’t let go.


Her Gypsy Lord – Jane Charles

Lady Charlotte Beck lives with irritating older brothers, no if’s, ands or buts about it. Having lived her entire life with one of them hovering she is looking for adventure when they are summoned to a haunted castle for the reading of a will. Slipping away to have her fortune told she doesn’t expect a handsome gypsy who is not as he seems, a round-about fortune or the doom it foretells. Not believing what she’s told could mean her death unless she accepts the truth of what she’s told and falling in love may be the only positive light in these turmoil filled days.

Adam Vail is more gypsy than lord; a title he never wanted. Now that it has been thrust upon him it may become an advantage after he meets a beautiful client of his gypsy grandmother’s. After hearing the warning given he develops an uncontrollable need to protect this lady. As he fights to keep the lady alive he needs to resolve his feelings as truth or spell but can he accomplish either or will he lose his chance with his soulmate?

As always, a wonderful tale by Jane Charles; her writing style has me feeling Charlotte’s frustration with her family, her skepticism, and her fear. Not to mention falling in love with Charlotte’s knight in gypsy clothing.

Lady Ghost and Lord Death: A Love Story – Claudia Dain

Lady Morgan Banfield does not want to be married; at least not for a long time. However, a meddling ghost may have other ideas. When she finds herself suffering from cold drafts and a forwardness unlike her has Morgan avoiding a certain gentleman and wondering what has gotten into her. The one thing she does not and will not consider is ghosts and finds those who do suffer as fools. Will the ghostly happenings of the next few days change her mind?

Hal Mort, Viscount Blackwater, has no idea what possessed him to travel with a friend to the reading of a family member’s will. He attributes the pull to wanting to get to know his new stallion. Not believing in ghosts has him acting out of character when he becomes the object of their interest. Can he protect the lady they have targeted to become his wife and can he keep from falling in love in the process.

An entertaining story by Claudia Dain that had me loving the volatile ghost love story that intertwined with the love between mortals.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Claire Delacroix's Something Wicked This Way Comes
Seven years ago, Sophia Brisbane lost everything—her father, her brother, her family fortune—but worse, was rejected by the man she loved. She broke her engagement to Eugene Tremblay, Marquis of Lyndenhurst & became a governess to the grand daughters of Lady North Barrows, taking her dead governess’ name of Amelie Findlay. She’s determined not to yearn for the past and its pleasures—until she encounters Lucien de Roye again. Although he knew Sophia could never be his own, Lucien vowed to retrieve her squandered inheritance—even wagering his very soul to a demon. This story was different to the others in that there was wasn’t a ghost from the Castle but voodoo. This story was heart breaking in that Lucien would risk his very soul to help Sophia. 4 stars

Jane Charles's Her Gypsy Lord
Lady Charlotte Beck craves just one little adventure, which is nearly impossible as her older brothers are the most diligent of chaperones. However, when her family is summoned to Castle Keyvnor for the reading of her great-uncle’s will, Charlotte can hardly contain her excitement. She hears there’s a gypsy camp nearby & sneaks out to visit the camp to have her fortune read. Whilst there she sees a beautiful man. Adam Vail is the grandson of the fortune telling gypsy also heir to Viscount Lynwood whose lands Hollybrook Park bordered Castle Keyvnor, he is also attracted to Charlotte. The evil ghost of Lord Tyrell is seeking Charlotte as she looks exactly like a past ancestor Lady Helena who he murdered on her wedding night. Charlotte is given a pouch of charms to keep Lord Tyrell away. It seems the solution is for Charlotte to marry as soon as possible & hopefully after her wedding night Lord Tyrell will disappear. This is the story I’d been waiting for as there had been lots of mentions of it in the other novellas. It didn’t disappoint. Adam & Charlotte sizzle, I liked the glowing emerald & the earth moving! Yet another feel good story that made me smile. 5 stars

Claudia Dain's Lady Ghost and Lord Death: A Love Story
Roland & Nell have been ghosts at Castle Keyvnor ever since the War of the Roses when Roland was killed by a Banfield & Rose killed herself by eating oysters. They had been lovers but had a stormy relationship, which they still have as ghosts.
Hal Mort, Viscount Blackwater, accompanies his friends to the Castle, where he sees Lady Morgan Hambly, daughter of the new Earl. Unfortunately for Hal, the ghosts take an interest in him. Nell wants to see him married to the lovely Lady Morgan whereas Roland is just as determined to see him slip the noose. A very sweet story that not only had Hal & Morgan falling in love but Roland & Nell also rekindling their passion. 4 stars

The final three stories in a four book series making twelve novellas in total about the relatives ~& friends gathering for the Earl Of Banfield’s will reading at Castle Keyvnor in Cornwell. The six hundred year old castle has seen its share of history & is haunted. These are three well-written novellas that kept me engrossed. I really enjoy the way the authors work together to intertwine their stories. Definitely stories I will revisit
I received an ARC copy

[Patricia Wissore · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the first story, we find Lucien and Sophia. In this story Lucien is in debt to "the Baron", a demon that holds the ownership of Lucien's soul for a deal made for 7 years. Lucien can never lose at anything, including life! He made the deal because of an oath he made to Sophia, and nothing will stop him from keeping that oath! Sophia learns of it after Lucien thinking her dead and tries to somehow save him!
Next we have Adam and Charlotte. Adam has the heart and history of his gypsy/Roma mothers family. His grandmother has the 2nd sight and saves Charlotte from ghostly attacks at the castle while they find love.
Last we have Hal and Morgan who happen to fall in love with the help of 2 ghostly lovers, Roland and Nell.
I loved that at the end of the book, we finally find out who was bequeathed what in the will!!!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

​This is one of four books about Castle Keyvnor. Each book contains three romantic stories set against the spooky background of the Castle. The stories are slightly intertwined, yet each can be read as a stand-alone story.

Claire Delacroix's Something Wicked This Way Comes:
This book had a very intriguing start! We first see Lucien de Roye involved in a duel. He is set on revenge against the Marquis of Lyndenhurst, and used very serious magic win back his lost love's fortune . Sophia Brisbane, who has gone into hiding as a governess and goes by a different name, ends up traveling to Castle Keyvnor, where she finds Lucien again. What happens when you make a deal with a demon? Can you find happiness in the end or are you doomed?

Jane Charles's Her Gypsy Lord:
I was looking forward to this one, because I had met Lady Charlotte first in Vexed. She is looking for some adventure, and to get away from the watchful eyes of her brothers. She sneaks out to a local gypsy camp and meets Adam Vail, part-gypsy but also destined to be Viscount Lynwood. The spooky part comes in when it's revealed Charlotte looks like a woman who was murdered 200 years ago by Lord Tyrell. Only Adam is able to save her, but will it be too late?

Claudia Dain's Lady Ghost and Lord Death: A Love Story:
I loved this one! You have two ghosts, Nell and Roland, who are interested in two humans - Hal, Lord Blackwater and Lady Morgan Hambly. When the spirit world meets the real world, it makes for a fun and entertaining story!

​I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. ​

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

These 3 novellas are part of a series of 4 books containing 12 novellas that have related characters, who are all attending the reading of a will at the estate of the deceased Earl of Banfield. Each novella can be read as a standalone story.
Something Wicked This Way Comes by Claire Delacroix: Sophia Brisbane has been in hiding for 7 years, ever since she lost everything - her father, her brother, her family - and was rejected by the man she loved. Lucien de Roye swore to avenge Sophia, though he knew he could never have her. When they meet again and Sophia realizes he's wagered his soul to a demon to restore her inheritance to her, she will do anything to save him. Such a well-written, entertaining story!
Her Gypsy Lord by Jane Charles: Lady Charlotte Beck is closely protected by her family members, but when she finds out a Gypsy encampment is nearby, she sneaks away to have her future told. When she meets Adam Vail, she finds an unexpected adventure - including a dangerous ghost! This, too, was a well-written, fast-paced read.
Lady Ghost and Lord Death: A Love Story by Claudia Dain: Hal Mort, Viscount Blackwater, accompanies his friend's to the Banfield estate. He meets Lady Morgan, and they are surprised at the strong attraction they feel. They don't realize that one ghost has made a bet to make them fall in love and marry, and another is determined that they won't! This was a fun, cute story.
Copy gifted by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Tracy Emro · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a nice collection, it wrapped up the series of books very nicely.

Something Wicked This Way Comes, Claire Delacroix - 4 stars, Sophia and Lucien have a history, but have not seen each other in years, not since she lost everything and Lucien vowed to restore her fortune. Lucien believed that Sophia was dead, but that did not stop his quest to fulfill his vow to her. Imagine his shock when he sees her again! This novella had quite the paranormal vibe, but it is really well done and I enjoyed the story.

Her Gypsy Lord by Jane Charles - 5 stars and one of the top two novellas in all 4 books! Charlotte and Adam's story has been hinted at throughout the series, the reader knows that they marry - but we don't know why. This novella had it all; great writing, steamy love scenes, a malicious ghost and a beautiful love story!

Lady Ghost & Lord Death: A Love Story, Claudia Dain - 3 stars, this story was odd - I didn't feel the connection between Hal and Morgan. It seemed like this story focused more on the love story between Nell and Roland (ghosts) and that wasn't even resolved by the end. It wasn't a badly written story, it just didn't feel complete.

I really enjoyed all four books in this series and I would not hesitate recommending them to anyone.

[Julia David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Something Wicked This Way Comes: Sophia has been in hiding for 7 years. She lost everything because she would not marry a very wicked and cruel man. Lucien swore he would get it all back for her and then she died. He sold his soul to get everything back even though Sophia isn't around to give it back to her. They come face to face at Castle Keyvnor. Even though he knows she is alive, he will continue with his plan to give up his soul once his mission is complete. Can Sophia save him?
Her Gypsy Lord: Charlotte sneaks away from her over protective family to go to the gypsy camp. She wants to hear her fortune. She meets Adam. Adam knows that she will be his. But for now he has to protect her from a murderous ghost. There is adventures and a gypsy wedding.
Lady Ghost and Lord Death: A Love Story: Hal Mort, Viscount Blackwater goes to the reading of the will with his friends. A couple of ghosts have taken an interest in him. They have also taken an interest in Lady Morgan. They ghosts are interfering in their lives and Hal believes in ghosts, but Morgan does not. It is a rocky beginning.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three good stories that will have you believing in ghosts, magic and the dark arts!
The first story is very intriguing, with a heartbreaking love story underlying it. Lucien is willing to give everything he has to avenge the losses for the woman he loves and thought lost. Strong characters with deep passions. The dark forces come to a head at Samhain and Ms. Delacroix keeps you on tenterhooks right up to the witching hour!

The second story has a malevolent ghost, a damsel in distress, a gypsy clairvoyant, smugglers and love at almost first sight - all the ingredients for an exciting adventure. The characters are endearing and you like them right off the bat.

The third story is a sweet love story and of the two romances, one with living characters and the other with ghosts, the ghosts are the most endearing. The banter between the ghosts are priceless and their enduring passion is very special.

The continuity of all four of these anthologies is very well executed and they are all worth reading. I was provided with an ARC to review this book.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was gifted to me.
Something Wicked This Way Comes (Lucien and Sophia) has a heartwarming and engrossing storyline. It's a second chance love story with a couple of twists. It's short but fun, entertaining and enjoyable.
Her Gypsy Lord (Adam and Charlotte) is a whirlwind of romance, suspense and drama. The storyline is intriguing and scary, while the characters are charming and entertaining.
Lady Ghost & Lord Death: A Love Story (Hal and Morgan) is very funny. It has snarky ghosts, a man who does not believe in ghosts but talks to them, a combustible love story and a sweet love story.
This is a must add to your TBR list.

[Virginia Tican · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 1. Both Sophia and Lucien came from that part of the world where voodoo is quite Real. The author created just enough sinister atmosphere to make the story credible and she succeeded in that because Ms. Delacroix is a very good storyteller, despite it being part of an anthology.
Book 2. As I have already come across such stories re~ a vindictive or jealous ghost's connection to humans specially if a crime was committed, this is not new for me. I thought it was just fine.
Book 3. I just can not muster the inclination to read this twaddle.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful read, a bit more of dark magic vs ghost and faeries.
Claire Delacroix's Something Wicked This Way Comes
H: Lucien de Roye -
h: Sophia Brisbane -lost everything

Jane Charles's Her Gypsy Lord
H: Adam Vail - in the gypsy camp recently came into a title
h:Lady Charlotte Beck - a ghost out to kill her because of who she resembles

Claudia Dain's Lady Ghost and Lord Death: A Love Story
H: Hal Mort, Viscount Blackwater-
h: Lady Morgan-

[Mandi Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three books in one. So entertaining! All three take place in the Haunted Castle Keyvnor. The storylines happen simultaneously and during a time where they get together to read a will. Very believable and not at all cheesy goast stories. In fact I laughed with some of the ghosts. Really liked them.

I received this for free for an honest review.

[Margaret · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The concept of three different authors writing around the same background is well done.

I am not of fan of ghosts even in a romance, so I would rate the third book as my least favorite. Jane Charles' (the second) book was the best!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.