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The Orphan of Cemetery Hill
From the author of The Witch of Willow Hall and The Widow of Pale Harbor comes another atmospheric, historical, gothic tale, perfect for fans of Simone St. James and Deanna Raybourn.
The dead won't bother you if you don't give them permission.
Boston, 1844
Tabby has a peculiar gift: she can communicate with the recently departed. It makes her special, but it also makes her dangerous.
As an orphaned child, she fled with her sister Alice from their charlatan Aunt Bellefonte, who wanted only to exploit Tabby's gift so she could profit from the recent craze for seances.
Now a young woman and tragically separated from Alice, Tabby works with her adoptive father, Eli, the kind caretaker of a large Boston cemetery. When a series of macabre grave robberies begins to plague the city, Tabby is ensnared in a deadly plot by the perpetrators, known only as the "Resurrection Men."
In the end, Tabby's gift will either save both her and the cemetery--or bring about her own destruction.
The dead won't bother you if you don't give them permission.
Boston, 1844
Tabby has a peculiar gift: she can communicate with the recently departed. It makes her special, but it also makes her dangerous.
As an orphaned child, she fled with her sister Alice from their charlatan Aunt Bellefonte, who wanted only to exploit Tabby's gift so she could profit from the recent craze for seances.
Now a young woman and tragically separated from Alice, Tabby works with her adoptive father, Eli, the kind caretaker of a large Boston cemetery. When a series of macabre grave robberies begins to plague the city, Tabby is ensnared in a deadly plot by the perpetrators, known only as the "Resurrection Men."
In the end, Tabby's gift will either save both her and the cemetery--or bring about her own destruction.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published September 15, 2020
209 people are currently reading
12719 people want to read
About the author
Hester Fox
10 books2,098 followersHester Fox is a full-time writer and mother, with a background in museum work and historical archaeology. She is the author of such novels as The Witch of Willow Hall, A Lullaby for Witches, and The Last Heir to Blackwood Library. She lives in a small mill town in Massachusetts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 400 reviews
December 6, 2023
**3.5-stars rounded up**
Tabby can communicate with spirits; a fact she realized at a very young age. After her parents passed away, she and her sister, Alice, were taken in by their Aunt, who was also well aware of Tabby's blossoming talent.
Seances had grown in popularity in the first half of the 1800s and Aunt Bellefonte wished to use Tabby's gift in order to make herself rich.
Obviously, anyone who would exploit a recently orphaned child that way, is not a character we can get behind.
Unsurprisingly, Tabby and Alice flee their Aunt's household and make their way to downtown Boston, a bustling metropolis, where the girls hope they'll be able to blend into the crowd and avoid their Aunt ever finding them again.
The girls weren't really prepared for how busy and large the city actually was, however, and they end up getting separated. Without any means to find each other, the girls must do whatever they can individually to survive.
For Tabby, that means ingratiating herself to the steward of a large Boston cemetery, Eli. Over the years, she becomes for all intents and purposes, his daughter, helping him with the general maintenance and other duties.
Things get dark when a string of grave robberies begin to plague the city and a young man Tabby is fond of is accused of committing a dasterdly act, for which Tabby knows he cannot possibly be responsible.
Tabby must tap into her gift, which she has kept buried for so long, in order to try to get to the bottom of both mysteries. Little does she know, they're all connected in one wild and wicked web.
Set in 1844, Boston, The Orphan of Cemetery Hill is steeped in that broody historical atmosphere that I have grown to love from Hester Fox.
The gothic feel, paired with her likable characters, always make for an enjoyable story.
While I didn't become quite as invested in this one as I have with some of her earlier work, I definitely really enjoyed reading it.
I loved the setting of Boston and the historical topics explored, particularly the robbing of graves for the use in medical and scientific exploration, as well as the popularity of seances at the time. Both of those things made this an intriguing premise indeed.
It's no secret that I am a huge fan of Hester Fox. I will continue to pick up anything she releases until the end of time.
This novel, as is standard for her style, is perfect for this time of year; giving off all those chilly, creepy Autumnal vibes!
Tabby can communicate with spirits; a fact she realized at a very young age. After her parents passed away, she and her sister, Alice, were taken in by their Aunt, who was also well aware of Tabby's blossoming talent.
Seances had grown in popularity in the first half of the 1800s and Aunt Bellefonte wished to use Tabby's gift in order to make herself rich.
Obviously, anyone who would exploit a recently orphaned child that way, is not a character we can get behind.
Unsurprisingly, Tabby and Alice flee their Aunt's household and make their way to downtown Boston, a bustling metropolis, where the girls hope they'll be able to blend into the crowd and avoid their Aunt ever finding them again.
The girls weren't really prepared for how busy and large the city actually was, however, and they end up getting separated. Without any means to find each other, the girls must do whatever they can individually to survive.
For Tabby, that means ingratiating herself to the steward of a large Boston cemetery, Eli. Over the years, she becomes for all intents and purposes, his daughter, helping him with the general maintenance and other duties.
Things get dark when a string of grave robberies begin to plague the city and a young man Tabby is fond of is accused of committing a dasterdly act, for which Tabby knows he cannot possibly be responsible.
Tabby must tap into her gift, which she has kept buried for so long, in order to try to get to the bottom of both mysteries. Little does she know, they're all connected in one wild and wicked web.
Set in 1844, Boston, The Orphan of Cemetery Hill is steeped in that broody historical atmosphere that I have grown to love from Hester Fox.
The gothic feel, paired with her likable characters, always make for an enjoyable story.
While I didn't become quite as invested in this one as I have with some of her earlier work, I definitely really enjoyed reading it.
I loved the setting of Boston and the historical topics explored, particularly the robbing of graves for the use in medical and scientific exploration, as well as the popularity of seances at the time. Both of those things made this an intriguing premise indeed.
It's no secret that I am a huge fan of Hester Fox. I will continue to pick up anything she releases until the end of time.
This novel, as is standard for her style, is perfect for this time of year; giving off all those chilly, creepy Autumnal vibes!
June 12, 2020
Dear Reader,
Creating during turbulent times can be challenging, but it can also provide an escape. I started this book shortly after I found out I was pregnant, and finished it while I was nursing and caring for a newborn. There were days when I wished I didn't have to write it so that I could spend time with my new baby. There were days when I was grateful to have a break from diapers and breastfeeding and spit-up. There were days when the world felt scary and out of control and I was glad to be able to turn off the news and escape into my story.
I really hope that you enjoy it, and that 1850's Boston with its ghosts, cemeteries, grave-robbers, and seances provides a brief respite from the modern world.
Thank you so much for reading, buying my books, reviewing, and recommending; it allows me to do what I love and to explore and grow as a writer. If this book isn't your cup of tea, I'm still grateful to you for picking it up and giving it a chance. I have more dark, witchy books on the horizon, and I can't wait to share them with you.
Love,
Hester
Creating during turbulent times can be challenging, but it can also provide an escape. I started this book shortly after I found out I was pregnant, and finished it while I was nursing and caring for a newborn. There were days when I wished I didn't have to write it so that I could spend time with my new baby. There were days when I was grateful to have a break from diapers and breastfeeding and spit-up. There were days when the world felt scary and out of control and I was glad to be able to turn off the news and escape into my story.
I really hope that you enjoy it, and that 1850's Boston with its ghosts, cemeteries, grave-robbers, and seances provides a brief respite from the modern world.
Thank you so much for reading, buying my books, reviewing, and recommending; it allows me to do what I love and to explore and grow as a writer. If this book isn't your cup of tea, I'm still grateful to you for picking it up and giving it a chance. I have more dark, witchy books on the horizon, and I can't wait to share them with you.
Love,
Hester
September 21, 2020
The Orphan of Cemetery Hill has elements of a gothic supernatural mystery, a little romance with some drama to it. Can there be anything creepier than a cemetery, a young woman who can speak to the dead and bodies that go missing? And just in time for a spooky Halloween read.
Our main character Tabby ends up in a cemetery after fleeing from her aunt and uncle, and her sister disappears. Twelve years later, in 1844, Tabby and her adopted father, Eli, take care of the cemetery. She has kept her special gift a secret, and now things turn sinister, and she finds herself wanting to protect the young man she met in the cemetery along with the dead.
Tabby is a unique, likable character, and I found myself rooting for her right from the start. There is enough suspense here to create an entertaining story set in the cemetery, and I loved the creepy vibe I got from that. I struggled a bit with the pacing and at times, lost focus with the story and wanted a little more depth with one character.
The story wrapped up well for me, and while it did give me a creepy feeling, it's not one I needed to read with the lights on.
I received a copy from the publisher.
Our main character Tabby ends up in a cemetery after fleeing from her aunt and uncle, and her sister disappears. Twelve years later, in 1844, Tabby and her adopted father, Eli, take care of the cemetery. She has kept her special gift a secret, and now things turn sinister, and she finds herself wanting to protect the young man she met in the cemetery along with the dead.
Tabby is a unique, likable character, and I found myself rooting for her right from the start. There is enough suspense here to create an entertaining story set in the cemetery, and I loved the creepy vibe I got from that. I struggled a bit with the pacing and at times, lost focus with the story and wanted a little more depth with one character.
The story wrapped up well for me, and while it did give me a creepy feeling, it's not one I needed to read with the lights on.
I received a copy from the publisher.
Read
September 17, 2020DNF @ 19%. Not connecting to the storyline or writing.
September 15, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin - Trade Publishing for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
I cannot resist the stories or the covers of a Hester Fox story. I have loved The Witch of Willow Hall and The Widow of Pale Harbour and so it an "insta-click" to request a read of this one. Similar to her other tales, Fox dabbles in the supernatural, and in this particular storyline, her main female protagonist Tabby can talk to the dead.
Separated from her older sister, Alice, twelve years ago, Tabby lives in Boston with a cemetery caretaker, Eli. But Tabby never doubts that one day she and her sister will be reunited. When Tabby meets the dashing Caleb Bishop, but a series of grave robberies put both their lives in danger.
I enjoyed the way in which the novel started and for the first half of the book, I was totally swept away by the narrative, but it slowed down a bit in the middle and then picked up close to the end of the novel. Also, I cannot deny that I wasn't that big a fan of Caleb Bishop but that is only because I bristled under his continuous desire to "rescue" Tabby. Yes, that makes him a man of his time, but it also made him REALLY annoying. Overall, I liked the story enough that I would still recommend it to other readers.
Goodreads review 05/08/20
Expected Publication 15/09/20
#TheOrphanofCemeteryHill #NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin - Trade Publishing for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
I cannot resist the stories or the covers of a Hester Fox story. I have loved The Witch of Willow Hall and The Widow of Pale Harbour and so it an "insta-click" to request a read of this one. Similar to her other tales, Fox dabbles in the supernatural, and in this particular storyline, her main female protagonist Tabby can talk to the dead.
Separated from her older sister, Alice, twelve years ago, Tabby lives in Boston with a cemetery caretaker, Eli. But Tabby never doubts that one day she and her sister will be reunited. When Tabby meets the dashing Caleb Bishop, but a series of grave robberies put both their lives in danger.
I enjoyed the way in which the novel started and for the first half of the book, I was totally swept away by the narrative, but it slowed down a bit in the middle and then picked up close to the end of the novel. Also, I cannot deny that I wasn't that big a fan of Caleb Bishop but that is only because I bristled under his continuous desire to "rescue" Tabby. Yes, that makes him a man of his time, but it also made him REALLY annoying. Overall, I liked the story enough that I would still recommend it to other readers.
Goodreads review 05/08/20
Expected Publication 15/09/20
#TheOrphanofCemeteryHill #NetGalley
December 22, 2021
Sometimes voices reach you.......even from the lips of the eternally silenced.
Tabby Bellefonte waits on the steps of the church. She's been told not to move by her older sister Alice. Alice tells Tabby to be patient as she searches for some place where the sisters can find shelter for the night. They are on the run from their cruel aunt and uncle who took them in after their parents died in a carriage accident. Hours pass and Tabby feels the sharpness of abandonment.
It's 1844 on the streets of Boston and there aren't very many options for a twelve year old girl. Tabby finds comfort in the silence of the local cemetery as she walks among the headstones. As evening sets in, Tabby finds a rusted door opening into a mausoleum. It's here that Tabby will spend her days frightened and lost. She scounges in the market place looking for scraps. To her surprise the cemetery caretaker, Eli, takes her in and provides a home for her over the years.
But Tabby tries to keep her special "talent" a secret. She's able to visualize and speak to the dead. It's how she met Caleb who was attending his father's funeral. She and Caleb will be like oil and water in a very unbalanced relationship throughout the novel.
Hester Fox creates a panoramic view of the times. Spiritualism was set front and center by those wishing desperately to speak to their loved ones through seances and the like. But the dead didn't always find themselves in the midst of a velvet parlour. It was also a time of the devious resurrectionist men who robbed the graves of the recently dead and were paid well by medical schools for these cadavers.....even Harvard. Tabby will experience firsthand the work of these lowlifes. All of this will play out from start to finish in The Orphan of Cemetery Hill.
This was my first novel by Hester Fox. Fox knows how to create an atmosphere of eeriness and the macabre in order to set the tone of this book. It's a gothic historical novel dipped in the unexplainable that holds the reader in quite the grip. Fox has done her research in regard to this era and gives even more insight in her Author's Note. I'll certainly be checking out her past books and looking forward to future offerings.
Tabby Bellefonte waits on the steps of the church. She's been told not to move by her older sister Alice. Alice tells Tabby to be patient as she searches for some place where the sisters can find shelter for the night. They are on the run from their cruel aunt and uncle who took them in after their parents died in a carriage accident. Hours pass and Tabby feels the sharpness of abandonment.
It's 1844 on the streets of Boston and there aren't very many options for a twelve year old girl. Tabby finds comfort in the silence of the local cemetery as she walks among the headstones. As evening sets in, Tabby finds a rusted door opening into a mausoleum. It's here that Tabby will spend her days frightened and lost. She scounges in the market place looking for scraps. To her surprise the cemetery caretaker, Eli, takes her in and provides a home for her over the years.
But Tabby tries to keep her special "talent" a secret. She's able to visualize and speak to the dead. It's how she met Caleb who was attending his father's funeral. She and Caleb will be like oil and water in a very unbalanced relationship throughout the novel.
Hester Fox creates a panoramic view of the times. Spiritualism was set front and center by those wishing desperately to speak to their loved ones through seances and the like. But the dead didn't always find themselves in the midst of a velvet parlour. It was also a time of the devious resurrectionist men who robbed the graves of the recently dead and were paid well by medical schools for these cadavers.....even Harvard. Tabby will experience firsthand the work of these lowlifes. All of this will play out from start to finish in The Orphan of Cemetery Hill.
This was my first novel by Hester Fox. Fox knows how to create an atmosphere of eeriness and the macabre in order to set the tone of this book. It's a gothic historical novel dipped in the unexplainable that holds the reader in quite the grip. Fox has done her research in regard to this era and gives even more insight in her Author's Note. I'll certainly be checking out her past books and looking forward to future offerings.
September 14, 2020
Haunting and atmospheric. Chilling and magical. Beautiful and dark. Hester Fox is a master when it comes to telling gothic historical stories with a touch of the paranormal. Her books are the perfect way to kick off your fall reading, her tales are the perfect blend of all things spooky. Mid 1800s Boston, tabby and her sister Alice escape to the city, away from their aunt and uncle. Unfortunately the sisters are quickly separated and tabby finds herself in a cemetery where she is taken in by the caretaker Eli. The story then jumps forward 12 years and Tabby is still living in the cemetery. Helping Eli with his caretaking duties. This is where she runs into the handsome Caleb, there is a connection the problem is Caleb is engaged. But he cannot seem to stay away especially after his fathers body has been stolen from the cemetery. A string of grave robberies bring Caleb and Tabby even closer together. Strange I know, but what I failed to mention is tabby can speak to the dead.
What I love about Hester Fox’s stories is the paranormal element is very understated. Tabby was a great character I admired her strength and intelligence. I admired her desire to help whenever she could, both the living and the dead. Caleb was a true gentleman perhaps a bit too chivalrous by today’s standards. The mystery to the story was fascinating. What these grave robbers wanted from these bodies was interesting. The audiobook was narrated by lauren Ezzo. Lauren narrates all of Hester’s books and they are the perfect Gothic partnership. Lauren’s voice lends perfectly to the haunting vibe of the story.
This book in emojis. 👻 🌫 ⚰️ 🧿
*** Big thank you to Harlequin & Harper Audio for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
What I love about Hester Fox’s stories is the paranormal element is very understated. Tabby was a great character I admired her strength and intelligence. I admired her desire to help whenever she could, both the living and the dead. Caleb was a true gentleman perhaps a bit too chivalrous by today’s standards. The mystery to the story was fascinating. What these grave robbers wanted from these bodies was interesting. The audiobook was narrated by lauren Ezzo. Lauren narrates all of Hester’s books and they are the perfect Gothic partnership. Lauren’s voice lends perfectly to the haunting vibe of the story.
This book in emojis. 👻 🌫 ⚰️ 🧿
*** Big thank you to Harlequin & Harper Audio for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
July 23, 2020
Hester Fox has impressed me from her debut novel and onward. She never ceases to capture my attention with her fantastical tales that are always touched with a bit of the paranormal always set in a time and place I adore.
Her latest, The Orphan is no exception. I completely loved this story of ghosts and graveyards and murder and love. It was captivating, enchanting and I didn't want it to end. I wanted to both savor it and devour it all in one go.
There is nothing like a good thrilling story to take you out of yourself and transport you into a another time, another world and into the life of characters that are believable and not only believable but that feel real and raw and you want to know, help, and hug along the way.
I gobbled this up and was left sad that it was over but also relishing all that I had read and looking forward to Fox's next great read and adventure.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Her latest, The Orphan is no exception. I completely loved this story of ghosts and graveyards and murder and love. It was captivating, enchanting and I didn't want it to end. I wanted to both savor it and devour it all in one go.
There is nothing like a good thrilling story to take you out of yourself and transport you into a another time, another world and into the life of characters that are believable and not only believable but that feel real and raw and you want to know, help, and hug along the way.
I gobbled this up and was left sad that it was over but also relishing all that I had read and looking forward to Fox's next great read and adventure.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
September 5, 2020
I can always depend on Hester Fox for giving all the perfect Gothic vibes. I loved the Widow of Pale Harbor and I jumped for joy when I received The Orphan of Cemetery Hill. So thank you, Hester Fox, NetGalley, and Harlequin Publishing for the opportunity to read this book! The book takes place in Boston in the year 1844. Tabby and her sister Alice are orphans and they are fleeing their dangerous Aunt and Uncle and get separated. Tabby finds herself hiding in the cemetery and soon gets adopted the cemetery caretaker, Eli. Eli does not know that she possesses a gift. She can speak to the dead. Her path soon crosses with Caleb Bishop. His father’s body is taken by grave robbers. They soon get dragged into danger revolving around the “Resurrection Men.” She must use her gift and risk getting caught, even though that is something she has been keeping secret all her life.
This book is EVERYTHING I want during this time of year. If you are looking for something that has all the spooky, gothic goodness…this is it! Hester Fox has become one of my instant buy authors! Her plots are unique and intriguing. I always find it difficult to put down her books. I finished this book in two days. (And that is on top of work on monitoring virtual learning!) Tabby is a wonderful main character and has the best development! She lives her life run by fear of being used or tortured. It takes a great deal of courage and love to overcome that fear and use that gift to help those around you, even those who are already dead.
I loved the “Resurrection Men” plot. It gives a bit of history of grave robbing and the determination to study the human body. But it also gave me a lot of Frankenstein vibes. There are also mentions of women’s suffrage and ending slavery. One of the most haunting moments is one of the characters saying that there are dark times coming to the United States, referring to the Civil War. It gave me the chills. Everything just flowed together so perfectly.
I am telling you, this is the perfect book to read this Fall. The book publishes September 15th and you will not want to miss out! This book gets 5 out of 5 stars! —Also check out that gorgeous cover!
This book is EVERYTHING I want during this time of year. If you are looking for something that has all the spooky, gothic goodness…this is it! Hester Fox has become one of my instant buy authors! Her plots are unique and intriguing. I always find it difficult to put down her books. I finished this book in two days. (And that is on top of work on monitoring virtual learning!) Tabby is a wonderful main character and has the best development! She lives her life run by fear of being used or tortured. It takes a great deal of courage and love to overcome that fear and use that gift to help those around you, even those who are already dead.
I loved the “Resurrection Men” plot. It gives a bit of history of grave robbing and the determination to study the human body. But it also gave me a lot of Frankenstein vibes. There are also mentions of women’s suffrage and ending slavery. One of the most haunting moments is one of the characters saying that there are dark times coming to the United States, referring to the Civil War. It gave me the chills. Everything just flowed together so perfectly.
I am telling you, this is the perfect book to read this Fall. The book publishes September 15th and you will not want to miss out! This book gets 5 out of 5 stars! —Also check out that gorgeous cover!
July 26, 2020
3.5 stars - As expected, Hester Fox delivers the spooky atmosphere of 1800s New England in spades in her third book. This is probably my least favorite of the three, as I think there are some very jarring notes in how this book is paced and lacks in the mystery component of the plot. I also think the main male character was very lacking. That said, absolutely loved Tabby and especially loved her relationship with Eli. The paranormal elements of this worked very well for me, and I still enjoyed getting lost in the historical setting. Not her strongest, but still an enjoyable entry in her oeuvre, and I'll look forward to the next one as I do every fall now
October 25, 2020
I have been rereading some of my favourite gothic novels of late, and it inspired a search for modern authors writing in a similar vein. Hester Fox breathes new life into the genre with all the hallmarks of the classics: a somber, atmospheric setting, chills paired with a bit of romance, and prose that is beautifully and lyrically written. Mid-nineteenth century New England is the perfect backdrop for this tale of graveyards, ghosts, murder, and love. I love the pairing of a grave robber mystery and the history of the resurrectionists in this story. There is a sinister, eery edge to this haunting, dark novel, and I was completely swept away by it.
February 11, 2022
I have read several of Hester Fox's books and can truly say that this author is an expert at creating a chilling read complete with paranormal vibes. Her books nearly always rank on the top of the "creepiness scale". This one was not an exception coming filled with grave robbers and ghost galore. Overall, I had a great time with this story. If you are looking for something creepy and enjoy a historical setting as well as a paranormal angle, The Orphan Of Cemetery Hill is a great option.
June 26, 2020
So. There was a lot happening in this book. We have Tabby the Medium, her missing sister who happens to be able to see the future, a self-emancipated man, murder, body snatching, weird secret medical experimentation...like I said. There was a lot happening here.
I liked Tabby's independent spirit and her ability to take care of herself when her sister disappeared. I also liked her relationship with Eli. It was very sweet.
But I think that all of the things going on made the book a little hard to follow at times and it required a lot of suspension of disbelief. I don't mind suspending my disbelief, but this required a LOT of my disbelief to be suspended.
I liked Tabby's independent spirit and her ability to take care of herself when her sister disappeared. I also liked her relationship with Eli. It was very sweet.
But I think that all of the things going on made the book a little hard to follow at times and it required a lot of suspension of disbelief. I don't mind suspending my disbelief, but this required a LOT of my disbelief to be suspended.
September 15, 2020
Fox continues to impress me with her unique and atmospheric tales. In The Orphan of Cemetery Hill, we meet Tabby soon after she and her sister escapes their aunt and uncle. However, it seems Alice has abandoned Tabby. Frightened, she seeks shelter in a crypt at the cemetery. There she spies a young man crying.
Fast forward twelve years to 1844, and Tabby works alongside her adopted father, Eli; the kind caretaker of the Boston cemetery she once sought shelter in.
Tabby has a unique gift that she shares with no one. She can communicate with the recently departed. She rarely uses her gift and blocks spirits, but when the young man she first spied in the cemetery is in trouble, she reaches out to the spirits.
The tale that unfolds held mystery, romance, and suspense wrapped in supernatural elements. Tabby reaches out to the spirits and plays amateur detective when Caleb Bishop finds himself in serious trouble. Her quest leads her to the Resurrection Men.
The story grabbed me from the pacing to the ghostly encounters. I liked Tabby even if I wasn’t all that impressed with Caleb, but Fox slowly redeemed him. Fox gave us the point of views of both Tabby and Caleb as their stories went off in different directions before weaving back together.
As their storylines wove together Fox increased the suspense and danger. While the middle of the story felt sluggish, the beginning and ending of the book were completely addictive.
If you are looking for an atmospheric tale, this gothic, historical fiction with touches of the supernatural and a solid mystery is the perfect novel to curl up with this fall. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Fast forward twelve years to 1844, and Tabby works alongside her adopted father, Eli; the kind caretaker of the Boston cemetery she once sought shelter in.
Tabby has a unique gift that she shares with no one. She can communicate with the recently departed. She rarely uses her gift and blocks spirits, but when the young man she first spied in the cemetery is in trouble, she reaches out to the spirits.
The tale that unfolds held mystery, romance, and suspense wrapped in supernatural elements. Tabby reaches out to the spirits and plays amateur detective when Caleb Bishop finds himself in serious trouble. Her quest leads her to the Resurrection Men.
The story grabbed me from the pacing to the ghostly encounters. I liked Tabby even if I wasn’t all that impressed with Caleb, but Fox slowly redeemed him. Fox gave us the point of views of both Tabby and Caleb as their stories went off in different directions before weaving back together.
As their storylines wove together Fox increased the suspense and danger. While the middle of the story felt sluggish, the beginning and ending of the book were completely addictive.
If you are looking for an atmospheric tale, this gothic, historical fiction with touches of the supernatural and a solid mystery is the perfect novel to curl up with this fall. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
June 21, 2020
Hester Fox is right up there with my favorite authors like Laura Purcell, Kate Morton and Essie Fox so I was anxious to read this one and it did not disappoint.
Set in Boston 1800's, young Tabby has the gift of speaking to the dead and in order to protect her,
she and older sister Alice decide to run away from their abusive aunt and uncle who have used Tabby in their money making schemes. In order to keep Tabby from being found sister Alice decides they should set out by themselves leaving Tabby to survive alone and hide out in an old cemetery where she meets Eli, the old caretaker of the cemetery. As the years go by both Tabby and Eli form a close bond and lovingly regard themselves as father and daughter while Tabby hides painful memories in hopes of finding her long lost sister. While helping tend the graves one day she meets handsome, young Caleb Bishop who has just buried his shipping magnate father and is captivated by her beauty, a friendship ensues but Caleb is engaged and Tabby not wanting to come between him and his beautiful fiance decides to hold back knowing she could never reveal her true feelings. As sinister things begin to happen in the cemetery during the night Tabby begins to discover that graves are being robbed of their corpses for use in medical experiments and Caleb ends up accused of the murder of his fiance. Unwittingly she finds herself and Eli in danger when her ability to speak to the dead is used against her.
This was a gothic, engrossing read and I especially found Eli and Tabby's relationship endearing and heartfelt. Recommended.
Thanks to author Hester Fox and Edelweiss for allowing me to read this in exchange for my review.
All opinions are my own.
Set in Boston 1800's, young Tabby has the gift of speaking to the dead and in order to protect her,
she and older sister Alice decide to run away from their abusive aunt and uncle who have used Tabby in their money making schemes. In order to keep Tabby from being found sister Alice decides they should set out by themselves leaving Tabby to survive alone and hide out in an old cemetery where she meets Eli, the old caretaker of the cemetery. As the years go by both Tabby and Eli form a close bond and lovingly regard themselves as father and daughter while Tabby hides painful memories in hopes of finding her long lost sister. While helping tend the graves one day she meets handsome, young Caleb Bishop who has just buried his shipping magnate father and is captivated by her beauty, a friendship ensues but Caleb is engaged and Tabby not wanting to come between him and his beautiful fiance decides to hold back knowing she could never reveal her true feelings. As sinister things begin to happen in the cemetery during the night Tabby begins to discover that graves are being robbed of their corpses for use in medical experiments and Caleb ends up accused of the murder of his fiance. Unwittingly she finds herself and Eli in danger when her ability to speak to the dead is used against her.
This was a gothic, engrossing read and I especially found Eli and Tabby's relationship endearing and heartfelt. Recommended.
Thanks to author Hester Fox and Edelweiss for allowing me to read this in exchange for my review.
All opinions are my own.
September 18, 2020
The Orphan of Cemetery Hill is my first Hester Fox novel. I found her writing to be very atmospheric. I was easily transported back in time. Tabby’s character resonated with me. I was scared for the child abandoned and happy for the girl who found a home. She was resilient and despite the trauma she endured she still was a compassionate and loving person. Despite the fact that I usually gravitate towards kick a$$ females I could appreciate the fact that Hester Fox’s characterization of Tabby as a “little woman waiting to be rescued by her knight in shining armor” was true to the way women in that era were treated. I still don’t like Caleb though and was a bit skeptical about his professions of love. But I digress.
Overall, The Orphan of Cemetery Hill was an enjoyable and engaging read. I was taken in by the mystery and loved that the book was loaded with history. I also enjoyed how Hester Fox handled both Tabby’s and Alice’s supernatural gifts. It was just the right amount of the paranormal: enough to keep me intrigued and not too much where the story would be unbelievable. Definitely picking up Hester Fox to read again.
Overall, The Orphan of Cemetery Hill was an enjoyable and engaging read. I was taken in by the mystery and loved that the book was loaded with history. I also enjoyed how Hester Fox handled both Tabby’s and Alice’s supernatural gifts. It was just the right amount of the paranormal: enough to keep me intrigued and not too much where the story would be unbelievable. Definitely picking up Hester Fox to read again.
July 25, 2025
A crisp gothic novel set during a steampunk/early science experiment period that showcases class distinctions and privileges as well as Victorian spiritualism. The romance between the two leads are mere undercurrents to the story but they really are just discovering romantic love as young people do. It’s the endearing acts of service as a love language kind of romance rather than the steamy, touchy-feely kind. I like it.
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April 26, 2025Having absolutely loved the first two gothic romances from this author, I unfortunately found The Orphan of Cemetery Hill to be a bit of a disappointment. The plot was much more predictable and I was never rooting for the hero who is lazy, selfish, and rather a cad. I think you're supposed to like him despite that, but I wasn't a fan. I did enjoy the heroine Tabby (other than her poor taste in men...). She is an orphaned clairvoyant with traumatic childhood who is consistently brave and selfless.
There is a mystery element to this book, much like the other two, but I did not find it to be as compelling and there are definite moments of deus ex machina where highly unlikely events are used to push the plot along. I think a stronger romance could still have carried this for me, but alas that really flopped and the mediocre mystery didn't do a whole lot for me. That said, I will definitely continue to try whatever this author puts out. She generally writes wonderfully atmospheric books and I've loved the other two. This one was more of a dud. I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 16, 2022
This is my favourite Hester Fox novel so far.
I listened to the audion edition although I do have the ebook too.
I've read and listened to all of Hester's novels, great all being narrated by the wonderful Lauren Ezzo you fall straight into the work Hester creates.
Gothic, compelling and captivating. Well worth its 5 stars! Looking forward to the next one.
I listened to the audion edition although I do have the ebook too.
I've read and listened to all of Hester's novels, great all being narrated by the wonderful Lauren Ezzo you fall straight into the work Hester creates.
Gothic, compelling and captivating. Well worth its 5 stars! Looking forward to the next one.
July 10, 2020
I read an advanced copy of this story. This book fit in very well with Fox's previous stories. The main character, Tabby, was very interesting and had a very cool backstory. I thought that setting the story in 1840s-1850s Boston and the UK within the context of body snatching (think Burke and Hare) and seances/mediums to be really unique. The story taps into themes of family strife, life/death, and the supernatural in interesting ways. If you enjoyed Hester Fox's previous work you will really like this new addition to the genre.
January 2, 2021
Nowhere in the description was the word "romance novel" but that's what it is. Sappy, predictable, love lost and then found, with the perfect ending where all loose ends are tied up and happy. If I could give it a zero, I would. Not a fan. Do not recommend.
May 29, 2022
This book was ok. There was a just a little bit more romance in it than I prefer. It definitely could have been spookier.
July 24, 2020
Tabby Cooke is separated from her sister Alice after they escape from their crooked Aunt and Uncle who want to exploit her ability to communicate with the dead. Everything changes when Tabby meets Caleb Bishop, and she never thinks she will meet him again, but she does, she won’t admit it but she attracted to him but figures he would never want to be with her plus he is engaged to another.
This is my second book by Hester Fox and it was just as good as the first one. The Orphan of Cemetery Hill is a well-written story surrounding grave robbing. There is a bit of romance, suspense/intrigue all wrapped into a story.
My gratitude to NetGalley, Harlequin, and Graydon House. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is my second book by Hester Fox and it was just as good as the first one. The Orphan of Cemetery Hill is a well-written story surrounding grave robbing. There is a bit of romance, suspense/intrigue all wrapped into a story.
My gratitude to NetGalley, Harlequin, and Graydon House. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 22, 2020
Thank you to the publisher, Graydon House, for providing me with an ARC of The Orphan of Cemetery Hill in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
I had Fox’s first novel, The Witch of Willow Hall, on my to-read list ever since it came out in 2018. Being the hopeful optimist that I am, I kept making plans to read it any day now. Well, the road to hell is usually paved with good intentions.
So, sadly, I hadn’t been introduced to her writing until the publisher was so kind and offered me a chance to read her newest novel, The Orphan of Cemetery Hill. Obviously, I jumped at the chance.
I ended up reading most of The Orphan of Cemetery Hill in one day, because I just needed to know. The story had me spellbound from the first chapter and when I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about reading.
I love the gothic, the dark and atmospheric stories, especially as we get closer in the season to Halloween.
The Details
There is so much I want to comment on without giving anything away, because this story is worth the reading journey. I’ll try my absolute hardest to do it justice minus any spoilers.
Let’s start with the characters, shall we?
We’ve got Tabby, the protagonist. A burned child, in a manner of speaking, who had a rough childhood. She can’t trust easily, but she has a pure heart.
She is a little feisty, knows how to learn from her mistakes and is a survivor. I like her. She has depth and personality. She feels real and I appreciate that in a character.
It is also always a wonderful treat to read about secondary characters that the author decides deserve the same amount of attention to detail as the protagonist. They may have a specific purpose to move the story forward, but that doesn’t mean it has to be blatantly obvious and all they are good for.
Complex and thought-through secondary characters provide a richness to a story that in the end could make or break the story as a whole. I was glad to see the dedication and love the author poured into these characters.
The writing was fantastic and I adored the contrast and similarities the author created between the eerie atmosphere of the story and the weather. It added a nice touch to the overall ambiance.
In The Orphan of Cemetery Hill, set mostly in Boston before the Civil War, Fox took the opportunity to comment on a series of social issues that were prevalent as much then as they are now. I appreciated the not so subtle opinions and struggles the characters had and faced, including the sobering fact that not much has really changed in the last 160 years.
The Verdict
Overall, I could go on and on about The Orphan of Cemetery Hill, but I shall stop here and say that it was a treat to read this story.
An eerie story, including ghosts and mad scientists, with a hint of romance; I would definitely recommend it.
ElliotScribbles
The Gist
I had Fox’s first novel, The Witch of Willow Hall, on my to-read list ever since it came out in 2018. Being the hopeful optimist that I am, I kept making plans to read it any day now. Well, the road to hell is usually paved with good intentions.
So, sadly, I hadn’t been introduced to her writing until the publisher was so kind and offered me a chance to read her newest novel, The Orphan of Cemetery Hill. Obviously, I jumped at the chance.
I ended up reading most of The Orphan of Cemetery Hill in one day, because I just needed to know. The story had me spellbound from the first chapter and when I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about reading.
I love the gothic, the dark and atmospheric stories, especially as we get closer in the season to Halloween.
The Details
There is so much I want to comment on without giving anything away, because this story is worth the reading journey. I’ll try my absolute hardest to do it justice minus any spoilers.
Let’s start with the characters, shall we?
We’ve got Tabby, the protagonist. A burned child, in a manner of speaking, who had a rough childhood. She can’t trust easily, but she has a pure heart.
She is a little feisty, knows how to learn from her mistakes and is a survivor. I like her. She has depth and personality. She feels real and I appreciate that in a character.
It is also always a wonderful treat to read about secondary characters that the author decides deserve the same amount of attention to detail as the protagonist. They may have a specific purpose to move the story forward, but that doesn’t mean it has to be blatantly obvious and all they are good for.
Complex and thought-through secondary characters provide a richness to a story that in the end could make or break the story as a whole. I was glad to see the dedication and love the author poured into these characters.
The writing was fantastic and I adored the contrast and similarities the author created between the eerie atmosphere of the story and the weather. It added a nice touch to the overall ambiance.
In The Orphan of Cemetery Hill, set mostly in Boston before the Civil War, Fox took the opportunity to comment on a series of social issues that were prevalent as much then as they are now. I appreciated the not so subtle opinions and struggles the characters had and faced, including the sobering fact that not much has really changed in the last 160 years.
The Verdict
Overall, I could go on and on about The Orphan of Cemetery Hill, but I shall stop here and say that it was a treat to read this story.
An eerie story, including ghosts and mad scientists, with a hint of romance; I would definitely recommend it.
ElliotScribbles
October 18, 2020
4.5 stars
I read Hester Fox’s debut novel a couple of years ago and I was immediately drawn her to story telling style and characters. I adored her first book and the second book was even better. So to say that I was excited for this one is an understatement.
I am such a fan of her Gothic story telling and how quickly I can read her books, while they might not be as spooky as some other books I have read this Halloween season, this one was still a spooky treat for fans of Gothic novels. Also this one is set in Boston which is such a great spooky city and perfect for a novel like this.
And let me just say, that cover is to die for and I absolutely love it. I think it is my favorite so far. Fox has written three books that all feature some of my favorite Gothic elements but they are not a series so new readers have no worries that what they are picking up to read is not part of a series, they are all standalones!
I grew up on Victoria Holt novels and I am only 40. Victoria Holt was the first ‘grown up book’ I read and I was so hooked on all the Gothic elements. For years I have been searching for authors that recreate that Victoria Holt vibe for me and Hester Fox is it. I mean even if the story isn’t life altering, the atmosphere and Gothic goodness hooks me every time and I can’t help but fall in love with the story.
I still think that my favorite by Fox has been The Widow of Pale Harbor, this one comes in a close second. It’s been fun to see how her writing has evolved and grown since the first book. She has been a solid writer but I can tell that she has matured in this one and I loved the plot for that. I loved the resurrection men aspect of this book and I loved how subtly Fox incorporated mystery, the supernatural, and history in this one.
This one had all the things that I love in a spook Halloweenie read this time of year—seances, ghosts, atmosphere, and a little bit of romance—it was a total package for me and I read it in like 2 days but could easily have read it in one sitting. I would say that this book had all the supernatural elements but it wasn’t so much that I would consider this one a horror novel. If you are looking for a spooky read this season that isn’t full of blood and guts, then this one should be on your radar.
I am looking forward to more books by Fox, she is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine and one that I would gladly put on autobuy! I ended up giving this one 4.5 stars, it was a wonderful read that could be read any time of the year but reading it in October makes it extra special with a pumpkin on top!
See my full review here
I read Hester Fox’s debut novel a couple of years ago and I was immediately drawn her to story telling style and characters. I adored her first book and the second book was even better. So to say that I was excited for this one is an understatement.
I am such a fan of her Gothic story telling and how quickly I can read her books, while they might not be as spooky as some other books I have read this Halloween season, this one was still a spooky treat for fans of Gothic novels. Also this one is set in Boston which is such a great spooky city and perfect for a novel like this.
And let me just say, that cover is to die for and I absolutely love it. I think it is my favorite so far. Fox has written three books that all feature some of my favorite Gothic elements but they are not a series so new readers have no worries that what they are picking up to read is not part of a series, they are all standalones!
I grew up on Victoria Holt novels and I am only 40. Victoria Holt was the first ‘grown up book’ I read and I was so hooked on all the Gothic elements. For years I have been searching for authors that recreate that Victoria Holt vibe for me and Hester Fox is it. I mean even if the story isn’t life altering, the atmosphere and Gothic goodness hooks me every time and I can’t help but fall in love with the story.
I still think that my favorite by Fox has been The Widow of Pale Harbor, this one comes in a close second. It’s been fun to see how her writing has evolved and grown since the first book. She has been a solid writer but I can tell that she has matured in this one and I loved the plot for that. I loved the resurrection men aspect of this book and I loved how subtly Fox incorporated mystery, the supernatural, and history in this one.
This one had all the things that I love in a spook Halloweenie read this time of year—seances, ghosts, atmosphere, and a little bit of romance—it was a total package for me and I read it in like 2 days but could easily have read it in one sitting. I would say that this book had all the supernatural elements but it wasn’t so much that I would consider this one a horror novel. If you are looking for a spooky read this season that isn’t full of blood and guts, then this one should be on your radar.
I am looking forward to more books by Fox, she is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine and one that I would gladly put on autobuy! I ended up giving this one 4.5 stars, it was a wonderful read that could be read any time of the year but reading it in October makes it extra special with a pumpkin on top!
See my full review here
September 10, 2020
The Orphan of Cemetery Hill by Hester Fox takes readers back to Boston in 1844 where Tabby Cooke (12) has run away with her sister, Alice from Amherst. Their aunt and uncle have been taking advantage of their powers and treating them terribly. The girls could not take it any longer and escaped to Boston. Alice tells Tabby to stay on the church steps while she searches for lodgings. Unfortunately, Alice does not return, and Tabby seeks sanctuary in a cemetery. Tabby can communicate of the dead which is something she does not intend to tell a soul. While hiding in the cemetery, Tabby witnesses two men stealing the newly buried. One night a gentleman stumbles in and needs help with a wound while he hides from someone to whom he owes funds. Tabby helps him and wonders if she will ever see the gentleman again. Eli, the cemetery caretaker, takes in Tabby and she helps him with his chores. Twelve years later, Tabby is watching a burial and there is the man again. Caleb Bishop is burying his father and the weight of his new responsibilities weigh heavy on his shoulders. He finds himself captivated by Tabby and she finds herself wanting to assist him with a problem. That means, though, using her gift and trusting Caleb with her secret. Trouble is on the horizon and Tabby’s gift will either save her or be her undoing.
The Orphan of Cemetery Hill by Hester Fox is an intriguing historical novel. I have a weakness for paranormal stories, and the blurb for this book fascinated me. The author created a dark, gothic atmosphere with the cemetery, grave robberies, the mist, and murder. Tabby is a complex character along with Caleb Bishop. I liked Eli who was so kind and loved Tabby dearly. There is a lot going on in this book which keeps it propelling forward towards the tense conclusion. There is suspense, romance, drama, and intrigue. The author transports readers to her world with her vivid word imagery. I liked the chapter headings which include “In which we meet our young heroine” and “In which there is a reunion”. I did feel it was a slow starter with the pace increasing in the second half. I had a hard time getting through the first half. I was glad it was more interesting later on. I enjoyed the mystery. I like being able to solve a crime before the solution is revealed. Those who enjoyed The Witch of Willow Hall will be eager to devour this historical novel. The Orphan of Cemetery Hill is a spooky tale with its gothic atmosphere, robbing of graves, murder, and Tabby’s ability to commune with spirits from beyond the veil.
The Orphan of Cemetery Hill by Hester Fox is an intriguing historical novel. I have a weakness for paranormal stories, and the blurb for this book fascinated me. The author created a dark, gothic atmosphere with the cemetery, grave robberies, the mist, and murder. Tabby is a complex character along with Caleb Bishop. I liked Eli who was so kind and loved Tabby dearly. There is a lot going on in this book which keeps it propelling forward towards the tense conclusion. There is suspense, romance, drama, and intrigue. The author transports readers to her world with her vivid word imagery. I liked the chapter headings which include “In which we meet our young heroine” and “In which there is a reunion”. I did feel it was a slow starter with the pace increasing in the second half. I had a hard time getting through the first half. I was glad it was more interesting later on. I enjoyed the mystery. I like being able to solve a crime before the solution is revealed. Those who enjoyed The Witch of Willow Hall will be eager to devour this historical novel. The Orphan of Cemetery Hill is a spooky tale with its gothic atmosphere, robbing of graves, murder, and Tabby’s ability to commune with spirits from beyond the veil.
February 13, 2021
2 Stars
*A great story idea, but an off-putting love interest and nonsensical plot dampened my enthusiasm*
ARC provided by Graydon House/Harlequin Trade Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was excited to get an advanced copy of this one since I’ve been on a big Gothic kick lately. I enjoyed Fox’s debut novel The Witch of Willow Hall. Her second novel, The Widow of Pale Harbor, had excellent atmosphere and an intriguing plot, but was a miss in terms of characters. I hoped that Fox’s latest book would swing things back in the other direction. Unfortunately, The Orphan of Cemetery Hill was also a flop for me.
Tabby’s character didn’t live up to my expectations. I wanted deeper character development and something more special done with her psychic powers. And I never liked Eli at all. I hate cheaters. And he was just too easy with a lie or a smile. So the romance part of the story was a total bust.
The setup of the plot started off promising. A medium and resurrection men sounded like a great base for a Gothic tale. But then there was an odd part where the story forked in two directions. Without going into spoilers, one storyline was put on hold for months just to allow the other storyline time to crawl along. It made absolutely no sense. And it also removed any sense of urgency from the story. I can’t get behind a sense of urgency when most of the characters sat at a stalemate for months just to allow for an unbelievable twist in the other storyline. It completely deflated my enjoyment of the end of the story.
On top of that, this one did not feel as atmospheric either. Maybe that was because all the little annoyances prevented me from becoming absorbed in the story.
Unfortunately, after two books in a row not fitting my tastes, it is time for Fox and I to part ways. I still think she has talent as a writer, but these books aren’t what I’m looking for.
RATING FACTORS:
Ease of Reading: 3 Stars
Writing Style: 2 Stars
Characters and Character Development: 2 Stars
Plot Structure and Development: 2 Stars
Level of Captivation: 3 Stars
Originality: 3 Stars
*A great story idea, but an off-putting love interest and nonsensical plot dampened my enthusiasm*
ARC provided by Graydon House/Harlequin Trade Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was excited to get an advanced copy of this one since I’ve been on a big Gothic kick lately. I enjoyed Fox’s debut novel The Witch of Willow Hall. Her second novel, The Widow of Pale Harbor, had excellent atmosphere and an intriguing plot, but was a miss in terms of characters. I hoped that Fox’s latest book would swing things back in the other direction. Unfortunately, The Orphan of Cemetery Hill was also a flop for me.
Tabby’s character didn’t live up to my expectations. I wanted deeper character development and something more special done with her psychic powers. And I never liked Eli at all. I hate cheaters. And he was just too easy with a lie or a smile. So the romance part of the story was a total bust.
The setup of the plot started off promising. A medium and resurrection men sounded like a great base for a Gothic tale. But then there was an odd part where the story forked in two directions. Without going into spoilers, one storyline was put on hold for months just to allow the other storyline time to crawl along. It made absolutely no sense. And it also removed any sense of urgency from the story. I can’t get behind a sense of urgency when most of the characters sat at a stalemate for months just to allow for an unbelievable twist in the other storyline. It completely deflated my enjoyment of the end of the story.
On top of that, this one did not feel as atmospheric either. Maybe that was because all the little annoyances prevented me from becoming absorbed in the story.
Unfortunately, after two books in a row not fitting my tastes, it is time for Fox and I to part ways. I still think she has talent as a writer, but these books aren’t what I’m looking for.
RATING FACTORS:
Ease of Reading: 3 Stars
Writing Style: 2 Stars
Characters and Character Development: 2 Stars
Plot Structure and Development: 2 Stars
Level of Captivation: 3 Stars
Originality: 3 Stars
September 14, 2020
eARC provided by publisher through NetGalley for review. All opinions are my own.
My disappointment knows no bound for this. As someone who has read the other two books by this author and loved them, I’m sad to say that this one was just very underwhelming.
Like her last book, this one has two main point-of-views and then another that doesn’t come into play until later on in the book and its only for that moment. I am a fan of multiple PoV so I didn’t mind this but, sometimes the PoV would switch in the same chapter and I much prefer there to be a chapter break to make the switch.
The characters were ones that I didn’t find myself connecting with. At times they felt flat and I especially wanted more from their gifts.
When it came to the ability of talking with the dead, it was pretty disappointing. The author’s other books are quite spooky and have those gothic vibes that I love. This one just didn’t live up to those which is a shame because their gifts could have been used much better than they were.
The writing was kind of on the meh side. There was a lot of telling and it made it easy to guess what was going to happen because she even gave one of the plot twists away. I think that is where I started to lose interest the most. It also never got better from there because I just didn’t care for the plot. Everything just felt too convenient. The romance couldn’t even hook me because it was very much insta-love and they didn’t have many parts together to really solidify their relationship.
Overall, I love this author but this one right here missed the mark. I will definitely check out another book by this author if/when she writes a new one and hopefully it will be more along the lines of her other two.
My disappointment knows no bound for this. As someone who has read the other two books by this author and loved them, I’m sad to say that this one was just very underwhelming.
Like her last book, this one has two main point-of-views and then another that doesn’t come into play until later on in the book and its only for that moment. I am a fan of multiple PoV so I didn’t mind this but, sometimes the PoV would switch in the same chapter and I much prefer there to be a chapter break to make the switch.
The characters were ones that I didn’t find myself connecting with. At times they felt flat and I especially wanted more from their gifts.
When it came to the ability of talking with the dead, it was pretty disappointing. The author’s other books are quite spooky and have those gothic vibes that I love. This one just didn’t live up to those which is a shame because their gifts could have been used much better than they were.
The writing was kind of on the meh side. There was a lot of telling and it made it easy to guess what was going to happen because she even gave one of the plot twists away. I think that is where I started to lose interest the most. It also never got better from there because I just didn’t care for the plot. Everything just felt too convenient. The romance couldn’t even hook me because it was very much insta-love and they didn’t have many parts together to really solidify their relationship.
Overall, I love this author but this one right here missed the mark. I will definitely check out another book by this author if/when she writes a new one and hopefully it will be more along the lines of her other two.
April 20, 2021
Historical with plenty gothic elements and a bit of a love story thrown in there with mysterious intrigue throughout the book. Hester Fox’s descriptive writing dropped me right into the streets of nineteenth century Boston with Tabby, Mary-Ruth, Caleb, and all. I pictured the old streets, the carriages, even the foggy cemetery wonderfully as I read and could hardly close the book when I didn’t have to. The story felt historically accurate with characters fitting their time period and regional way of thinking, which is something I am cautious of these days with historical fiction. Each chapter has a descriptive but vague title which gave me enough nugget of information to want to know more. Narrative perspective flips around between a few characters fluidly and worked wonderfully for the events of the plot. Tabby and Caleb both have huge emotional motivators for their actions in the past and present to the point I deeply understood each. Even beyond those two, all the characters of the book are strong in their own ways, which is a relief to read.
September 24, 2020
This book was a slight departure from the previous two (imho) in that it was action packed! I really love the more slow-burn drama of the first two, but this one was exciting! I loved the cemetery, the spirits, the characters. Body snatchers are a pretty scary/creepy topics, which helped make this story chilly. The mystery was good and I was quite concerned about our hero a few times! I didn’t want to put it down!
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