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Upon a Midnight Dreary

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When doors creak and ghostly whispers can be heard throughout the halls, this stunning collection of haunted Historical Romance novellas is sure to leave you breathless with ethereal, romantic tales...

Welcome to Upon a Midnight Dreary anthology!


Many of your favorite Historical Romance authors have come together for a collection of never-before published stories inspired by true, legendary hauntings of the British Isles. These tales will give you a chill, a thrill, and have you reading them over and over. From the moors of Devon to the ballrooms of Regency London, and far north into the Scottish Highlands, these stories will bring you wistful dreams of legendary and haunting romance. You’ve never before experienced a collection like this by some of the very best authors in Historical Romance.

Authors in this anthology include:

Kathryn Le Veque - Nevermore
Chasity Bowlin - Into the Night
Hildie McQueen - The Stones of Ard Cairn
Maggie Andersen - White Lady Lost
Mary Lancaster - The Others of Ochil
Meara Platt - Moonstone Landing
Violetta Rand - Belware Bridge
Alexa Aston - The Bridge to Love
Anna Markland - Blind Faith
Aubrey Wynne - Percy's Perdition
Elizabeth Ellen Carter - The Ghost Bride
Elizabeth Johns - Haunted Knight
Elizabeth Keysian - The Grey Lady of the Manor
Emily E.K. Murdoch - A Governess of No Fear
Emily Royal - Haunted Hart
Heather McCollum - Rohaise the Red
Anna St. Claire - Once Upon a Haunted Heart
Lynne Connolly - The Lair of the Burrells
Maeve Greyson - Guardian of Midnight Manor
Whitney Blake - The Dauntless Boy

Light your candle, lock your doors, and settle down to this smashing collection of darkly-tinged romantic stories with unforgettable heroes and magnificent ladies. Romance has never been so daring... or so haunting!

And if you hear a knock on your door… don’t answer it unless you are prepared to welcome a wandering wraith in a tattered wedding gown...

1225 pages, ebook

First published October 21, 2021

225 people are currently reading
509 people want to read

About the author

Kathryn Le Veque

324 books2,083 followers
Juggernaut Indie author Kathryn Le Veque is a 'tour de force' in publishing.

Kathryn is a critically acclaimed 21-time USA TODAY Bestselling author, a charter Amazon All-Star author, an Indie Reader top seller, and a #1 bestselling, award-winning, multi-published author in Medieval Historical Romance with over 100 published novels.

Among her many accomplishments, she is the CEO of Dragonblade Publishing, the #1 Historical Romance e-book publisher on Amazon. In 2020, Kathryn collaborated with Sourcebooks publishing for a Medieval Fight Club series set in Scotland.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
Profile Image for &#x1f989;Maggie Whitworth.
3,254 reviews113 followers
October 20, 2021
❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥
💋💋

Brilliant reading material, your going to love these stories, I swear they are some of the best around.
Here are a few contained in this anthology, hope this gives you a taster.

Kathryn Le Veque
Nevermore
Excellent, Poe type novella, that is scary, spooky, and a little disturbing too.
Atrius de Norvill and his postulate love, are finally going to make a run for it to start their new life, but will all go smoothly or is there a more sinister end in sight.
Great read with tense moments.

Meara Platt
Moonstone Landing

I really adored this story.
A beautiful and sensitive lady Henleigh, moves into a seaside cottage with a resident ghost all of her own.
Brioc is a Captain who has always loved the sea and his home, now he has one more thing to occupy his heart.
He’s a ghost who slowly realises he can feel again, but why, what is so special about this lady that he can feel her kisses.
So bittersweet and passionate, Meara has a gift for stunning stories.

Alexa Aston
The Bridge to Love

This story begins with a beautiful tale of two lovers who meet at the bridge between their properties, they marry on the bridge, but sometimes things don’t got the way you’d expect.
Hundreds of years later is the love story repeating itself, and can these two lovers help the pair from the past fulfil their destiny.
I loved this tale, it made me feel both emotional and satisfied.
Great reading

Elizabeth Johns
Haunted Knight

Sweet haunted house tale.
Getting a message to travel to your estate because it’s haunted is not what Sir Martin expected, but on arrival he finds his servants will no longer work there and his estate manager is at the end of his tether trying to make them.
There is obviously and extremely good explanation for all the noises and visions. Or is there?
Very quick and easy read that keeps you entertained.

Emily E K Murdoch
A Governess of no Fear

A ghost story set in a real haunted house, that exists in England, and a real ghost thought to exist as well.
It’s beautiful and thoughtful and entertaining.
Full of emotion and romance.
An extension of The Governess Bureau Books

Emily Royal
Haunted Hart

A creepy and somewhat sad tale, of a white lady waiting for her lover to return from war. He doesn’t. And hundreds of years later she still waits in her ruined palace.
Our now couple are staying at a local inn, family in tow, when they encounter the apparition.
But does she have any power over them, and can they free themselves from her hold.
Excellent and entertaining read, great story.

Whitney Blake
The Dauntless Boy

I thought this one was very spooky, a maid who went missing generations ago is now haunting both the house and the descendants.
It’s a beautiful love story too with the now maid falling for the man of the house.
Intriguing, entertaining and satisfying read.

I very much enjoyed reading this anthology, some awesome authors are involved in its making.
If you love living on the spooky side, do not miss this.

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
Profile Image for eyes.2c.
3,112 reviews111 followers
October 21, 2021
Halloween Treat!

A feast of gothic type historical tales with a romantic twist by a host of our favorite authors. From Medieval times to Regency. All centered around British tales from places where the paranormal is no surprise. Here’s a few I enjoyed.

“Nevermore” by Kathryn Le Veque. This is a medieval romance. The scene is near Whitby Abbey in 1295. A religious order ruled by an intractable, brutally righteous Mother Abbess.
Atreus de Norville a young knight has fallen in love with Mariana Prendwick de Allerston daughter of a noble house, banished to the Abbey for her involvement with a servant. Knight and postulant have met and fallen in love. But at the Abbey, Mariana is threatened, punished and abused by the Abbess to drive the demons of wildness out of her. Will Mariana and Artreus’ love survive?
“Into the night” by Chasity Bowlin
This set the hairs standing straight up on the back of my neck. A young woman and her intended (and how that came to pass is fascinating!) find themselves in an inn with a malevolent spirit.
“The Others of Ochil” by Mary Lancaster
A young woman who can talk to ghosts helps a Scottish Earl.
Moonstone Landing by Meara Platt
Love across the divide. Gorgeously gentle.

For those who wish to explore the divide when the veil is thin, it’s well worth the read!

A Dragonblade ARC via NetGalley
Profile Image for Jaime.
1,801 reviews309 followers
December 1, 2021
Some great authors have come together to bring you entertaining short stories that will keep you engaged from beginning to end. Of course, I am never ready for stories to end especially when I adore the characters—that’s the only let down with this anthology.
Profile Image for Megan.
317 reviews72 followers
did-not-finish
December 20, 2022
There are 20 stories in this anthology and there's no way I'm going to finish reading all of them anytime soon. So, I'm putting this on my DNF shelf, unrated. I'll update this review as I read the stories and if I do eventually read all of them, I'll move it to my Read shelf. I've been using a random number generator to pick which stories to read.

#16 Rohaise the Red of Delgatie Castle by Heather McCollum
Set in Scotland in October 1663. Abigail is running away from a man, William, determined to marry her. She takes refuge in an abandoned castle. There is a ghost haunting the place, a red-haired woman who apparently died of a broken heart. Kerrick shows up; the castle belongs to his family and he's there to fix it up and make the estate profitable. Kerrick lets Abigail stay if she works for him. Later, she pretends to be his wife. Meanwhile, the ghost is is really bothersome. William eventually shows up and gets his comeuppance. For what, I'm not sure. It's not clear why William is a villain except that Abigail doesn't want to marry him. It kind of felt like there was too much going on and too many threads for such a short story (only 70 pages). This is also zero steam. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but if there isn't going to be any payoff for the sexual tension and attraction, then she shouldn't have included that aspect at all. Just keep the romance focused on emotional attachment, rather than physical. I felt like I was teased, and then nothing ever came of it.
Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,339 reviews118 followers
October 22, 2021
Upon A Midnight Dreary: A Halloween Anthology

The perfect way to read favorite historical romance authors and meet new ones. I have seen many of these names in the past but realized, while looking through the list of authors, that I have only read a few of these authors’ work. I have read four of the twenty stories and each one was interesting and well written. I am looking forward to reading one or two per night until Halloween.

The stories span the centuries, are wonderfully told, had paranormal disturbances of the nice and not so nice ghost type, and all that I read made me want to read more.

Rohaise the Red of Delgatie Castle by Heather McCollum was scary for more than one reason. Glad I didn’t read IT before I went to sleep because that ghost was a nightmare in the making though the romance between Abigail and Kerrick was a delight!

Nevernmore by Kathryn Le Veque was first up in the anthology but second that I read. The evil abbess was someone I really didn’t like but I was thrilled with the romance between the night and his lady.

Blind Faith by Anna Markland was a sweet story with a ghostly presence that encouraged the blind soldier and the new housekeeper that came to his home. Liked this story quite a bit though not necessarily as scary as some of the others.

Into the Night by Chastity Bowlin had a mail order marriage with the couple meeting at an Inn only to have a rather horror filled night to contend with. This one was scary but in a different way that the first two.

I am eager to read the other books in this anthology and have told my sister that we might need it for our ereaders so we can revisit the stories again…or at least I can. Maybe I should have my daughter buy them for me as a Christmas gift? Hm…

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by the authors in this anthology? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for the ARC – this is my honest review.

5 Stars
Profile Image for Lesley.
2,450 reviews17 followers
January 13, 2023
Creepy Tales of Ghosts and Wickedness.
I find it rare in an anthology to find so many superb stories, usually only one or two are 5* but not in this case. This boxset is highly recommended.
Nevermore 5* by Kathryn Le Veque - An unwilling postulate at Whitby Abbey fights for her life.
Into the Night 5* by Chastity Bowlin - A creepy inn, two strangers pledged to marry and two very scary nights.
The Stones of Ard Cairn 5* by Hildie McQueen - A druid descendant guardian, evil infested stones and an unemployed knight.
White Lady Lost 5* by Maggi Andersen - A ghost infested ruin, a missing body and two young people determined to solve a mystery.
The Others of Ochil 5* by Mary Lancaster - Long lost tragic lovers are reunited in death by brand new lovers.
Moonstone Landing 5* by Meara Platt - A deceased Captain and a young lady form an attachment.
Belware Bridge 4* by Violetta Rand - Age old murders, superstition and appeasement on the eve of Summer’s End.
The Bridge to Love 5* by Alexa Aston - Sad and sweet tale of betrayal, murder and death with lovers reunited at last.
Blind Faith 5* by Anna Markland - Blinded at Waterloo, Boyd shuns company but an old friend persuades him to engage Amelia Southwell as both housekeeper and teacher of night writing. And it appears that his resident ghost approves.
Percy’s Perdition 4* by Aubrey Wynne - A man who’s only redeeming feature is his love for his wife, is given the chance to atone for his sins.
The Ghost Bride 5* by Elizabeth Ellen Carter - Jealousy and murder is uncovered centuries later.
Haunted Knight 5* by Elizabeth Johns - A runaway, a fake ghost and a real one.
The Grey Lady of the Manor 5* by Elizabeth Keysian - A temper riddled ghost, accident-prone maid and an apprentice thatcher feature in this spooky story.
A Governess of No Fear 4* by Emily E K Murdoch - A meddling matchmaking ghost pushes master and governess together.
Haunted Hart 5* by Emily Royal - Lilah angers a ghost who then decides she wants her husband who looks like her missing lover.
Rohaise the Red 5* by Heather McCollum - Abigail runs to avoid an unwanted marriage. Pursued she is helped by a ghost who later becomes dangerous to her.
Once Upon A Haunted Heart 5* by Anna St. Clare - A ghost causes accidents to happen in order that her dying curse is upheld.
The Lair of the Burrells 5* by Lynne Connolly - Saved by loyal ghostly retainers.
Guardian of Midnight Manor 5* by Maeve Greyson - A ghostly guardian dog and a story with a humorous ending.
The Dauntless Boy 5* by Whitney Blake - A maid solves a decades old mystery and in so doing frees her master from his guilt.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Alison.
850 reviews5 followers
October 27, 2021
Upon A Midnight Dreary
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Nevermore
Kathryn Le Veque
Wow what a story. It had me from the get go and I was on the edge of my seat. In the end the best possible outcome that could have happened did happen and left me with a slightly evil grin because evil gets what evil deserves. Ms Le Veque you have blown my mind once again.

Into the Night
Charity Bowlin
Yikes now this was one incredibly creepy story, but I must say I did enjoy every word of it. Ms. Bowlin you certainly know how to give a reader goosebumps.

The Stones of Ard Cairn
Hildie McQueen
This was another perfect scary story that I really enjoyed. The main characters were perfect for each other and the ending was great. Ms. McQueen did a great job with this addition to the anthology.

White Lady Lost
Maggi Andersen
This was another great installment to the anthology where the end had me smiling. I really enjoyed this story.

The Others of Ochil
Mary Lancaster
I truly enjoyed this story and was rooting for a certain couple to get together the whole time. There was such a happy ending that it left my heart feeling light.

Moonstone Landing
Meara Platt
Wow what a lovely ghost story. I truly enjoyed it and I really enjoyed Brioc and Hen they were so sweet. I always enjoy whatever I read from Meara Platt and this is a wonderful addition to the anthology.

Beware Bridge
Violetta Rand
Yikes this gave me the shivers. This story was well written and I certainly didn't see what happened coming and that's what I really enjoyed about it. I always enjoy books by Ms. Rand

The Bridge to Love
Alexa Aston
This was a delightful story that left me feeling light and happy. Two souls reunited and forever together. What a beautiful story. I really enjoyed it.

Blind Faith
Anna Markland
What a fabulous story. I truly enjoyed it and couldn't put it down. With such a nice ghost and a happy ending I would think everyone needs to read this one. Ms. Markland you have lightened my heart this day.

Percy's Perdition
Aubrey Wynne
Now this was definitely a great addition to the anthology. It was creepy and well written. I really enjoyed this addition.

The Ghost Bride
Elizabeth Ellen Carter
Wow this was quite the enjoyable addition to the anthology. It fit right in. I was utterly amazed by what I was reading. This is a great read.

Haunted Knight
Elizabeth John's
This was an amazing read. I enjoyed it and hung on every word. It was a great story with a wonderful ending that left my heart light and happy.

The Grey Lady of the Manor
Elizabeth Keysian
This was a really nice story that I truly enjoyed. The Grey Lady wasn't bad she just wanted her one true love. The main characters also didn't know that they needed love which was perfect.

A Governess of No Fear
Emily E K Murdoch
Another perfect fit for this anthology. I was rooting for the lovely Evangeline from the get go. She was a strong character and paired with Sir Mark the story just could not get better. I truly enjoyed it and look forward to reading other books by this author.

Haunted Heart
Emily Royal
This was a very good story and I throughly enjoyed it. I just wish there was a happier ending for the ghost, but in her own ghostly was she made herself happy and that's all that she could do.

Rohaise the Red
Heather McCullum
I'm almost speechless. This is my favorite story so far and a wonderful addition to the anthology. This ghost Rohaise was something else. At first I thought she was good because she helped Abigail, but as the story goes on and you learn more you just may see her in a different light. Either way I do feel bad for the ghost and am happy with such a fantastic ending. Ms. McCullum this was a fabulous story that I more then enjoyed.

Once Upon A Haunted Heart
Anna St. Claire
Another perfect addition to the anthology that I thoroughly enjoyed. Poor Violet we t through alot but in the end it all worked out for the ghosts and the living.

The Lair of the Burrells
Lynn Connolly
This story was different, but I didn't mind it at all. The ghosts were good people and helped saved the main characters.

Guardian of Midnight Manor
Maeve Greyson
This story was fabulous. I read it from beginning to end without putting it down. These ghosts were absolutely adorable in my eye's and I'd love to know more about this story. Ms. Greyson did a wonderful job with her fantastic addition to this anthology.

The Dauntless Boy
Whitney Blake
This was another wonderful addition to the anthology and I really enjoyed it.

All in all this anthology is one heck of a winner in my book. I truly enjoyed every story I read in this book and find all of these talented authors fabulous in their own different ways.
Profile Image for Carissa.
3,372 reviews91 followers
October 25, 2021
I enjoyed this Halloween anthology as it has the perfect blend of historical/paranormal romances. I've been in a Historical Romance kick and I'm also missing reading some PNR so I was glad to try this out. Great for the Halloween spooky season. I have read a few of these authors before and others I look forward to reading more. It was a nice way to try some new to me authors out there even if they're novella style. I ALSO REALLY LOVE THIS COVER!

I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Profile Image for Diana N..
627 reviews33 followers
November 5, 2021
What a spooky collection! This collection of romance stories has such a variety of haunts from many ghosts, witches, purgatory, being buried alive, and even a ghost dog.

I have read many other books that are a collection by different authors, but I have to say that this one was a favorite. Typically I really like only a couple stories with others just being OK. That was not the case with this collection. I felt engrossed in each story and can't really pick a favorite since I liked them all. Each plot was unique enough to not feel like any ghostly tale repeats. Maybe include a story with vampires next year?

I am excited for more collections from this group of authors!

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for a copy of this digital book in exchange for my honest review.
772 reviews4 followers
November 2, 2021
brilliant

Not a stinker in the bunch. This is a series of novellas, all with a ghostly or supernatural theme and all of them romances. Each written brilliantly and succinctly. Most anthologies have a few misses but not this one. A lovely sampler of first- class authors
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,079 reviews130 followers
November 21, 2021
Some of the best short stories cannot be found! The authors of
Dragonblade are some of the very best and they prove that over
and over with their entertaining stories.

Humor, ghosts, spooky happenings, intrigue, scary happenings and a wonderful cast of characters finding love, even from the other side!

Hard to say which ones are the best, because they all are amazing!!
Profile Image for Sandra.
556 reviews9 followers
November 30, 2021
A clever array of ghostly novellas

Nevermore by Kathryn le Veque
What a start to the boxset. Desperation and horror collide when Mariana's forbidden love and devotion for Atreus have harrowing consequences. It combined sizzlingly passionate love with great chemistry and overlaid it with a bite of gothic torment interwoven within an air of something horrific about to happen. Making it one highly enjoyable, well developed mini tale. It was well written and had me shrouded in suspense and gripped at the fate of Mariana from the start. Would she escape the heinous torment from the abbess or would she succumb and haunt the earth as the nun ghost of rumour? It really had me grasping in the darkness and my heart pounding until the end.

Into the night by Chasity Bowlin
Clara and Simon's tale was a delicious blend of the eery and ominious as circumstance and desperation forced them to seek a hasty marriage of convenience despite being perfect strangers. Their meet was wrapped up in instant attraction and a sinister cloak of paranormal manipulation and torment, driven by the twisted intentions of a chilling spirit and their growing longing for something more than the promised marriage of convenience they agreed to.
I became rather emotionally entangled in this one as the peril intensified and their desire built. Especially as it was topped off by a thread of sweetness in their chemistry that fed an intimate connection and understanding. All adding to their likability as they compelled me to remain gripped by the tale and cheering them on until the end.

The Stones of Ard Cairn by Hildie McQueen
This one was very clever and eerily atmospheric from start to finish. Dallis and Niven's tale had great flow and sucked me in with its engaging plotline. While the chemistry radiated. It was such a hauntingly enjoyable tale that it sent chills running down my spine. Especially as the sinister, creepy spirits drove the suspense and mystery surrounding the stones. While the lovable characters heightened the jeopardy as I became so desirious of them finding a way to escape the shackles the spirits had over them so they could ultimately be together. Wonderfully chilling!

White Lady Lost by Maggi Anderson
Electric attraction might crackle between Cecily and Harry but with one pious and prideful mother to out maneuver and the worries of financial stability hanging over Harry's head, can a future be possible? With a troubled ghost in need of help, and the threat of social ruin thanks to one horrifically terrifying night locked in the ruins of a castle can a happy outcome really be in their reach? Well I loved finding out.
This was a sweet romance, that set the scene well and as it grew and developed into a compellingly chilling adventure the warmth and intimacy of the characters really held my attention as I championed for they HEA.

The Others of Ochil by Mary Lancaster
I really fed on the connection between Justina and Rob from the first. As a result, it felt more of a longer tale for me which I savoured enjoyably. I was so ensnared by the couple's chemistry, personalities and especially Justina's situation, in being pushed into the shadows as a chaperone and forced to dampen down herself to become an honoury family member, that it brought me to tears at her HEA. The wit and wonderfully written characters that always get under my skin as I bond with them instantly, is a trait I have come to expect from Mary Lancaster,  and this tale was no different. With the backdrop of deception and intrigue drawing the pair together. Will a castle swarming with ghosts and her ability to see and hear them draw Rob to her for more that her abilities? Can her quiet kindness, wit and compassion hold his attention and inspire so much more than respect as they hunt out the reasons for the restless spirits that have always haunted his home? It  really was fun finding out.
Endearingly lovely with touches of eery intrigue and tension threaded with humour.

Moonstone Landing by Meara Platt
Brioc and Hen's tale is the perfect blend of humourous banter laced fun and heartwarmingly touching sentiment.
An endearing and witty reminiscence of The Ghost and Mrs Muir, a film that I have loved immeasurably from first viewing and this twist upon the story pays a brilliant homage to the original.
A paranormal romance that has true heart, delicious wit and warmth with a tinge of sadness that seeps from the circumstances of what brought them together. Great chemistry and vibrant characters that I've come to know and love from Meara Platt.

Belware Bridge by Violetta Rand
I was a little unsure about this one I think mainly because I found it difficult to warm to Seth's cocksure attitude at the beginning.
Returning from America to Scotland, Seth is determined to honour the betrothal made by his parents to Rosalind, where he inadvertently underestimates the traditions and rituals of his clan on Summers Eve in his haste to marry the woman he may never have seen but loves deeply through letters. Suspicions and superstitions abound with dia consequences. A unique tale.

The Bridge to Love by Alexa Aston
Love transcends through time as Elric and Anne, forever parted by a greedy usurper, bring Iris and Crispin together. But as history entangles, becomes unveiled and appears to be repeating itself, will the fate of the young lovers be as dark as their ancestors? Or, will they be able to unravel and put right a long ago injustice?
A bittersweet tale that is delightfully heart warming and tragic in the same breath. Loved it!

Blind Faith by Anna Markland
Ooh I loved this one! I really connected with Boyd and Amelia straight away, caring for them instantly. They had the power to make me tingle with emotion and well up with tears. While the sexual tension hummed and quietly simmered beneath their longing. Where his reactions to his 'invisible lady' only heightened the heartrendering loneliness he felt to perfection, playing my emotions literally like a violin. Extremely well written and highly enjoyable!

Percy’s Perdition by Aubrey Wynne
This one just screamed of originality and had moments I couldn't help but find enjoyable and fun. I really loved the concept of the Karma Carnival. Ellie shone as the intelligent and compassionate heroine but Percy despite having his share of endearing qualities, they were rather too deeply buried at times to find him likeable. Though despite that this one was very clever and blended humour, anticipation and the allure of poetic justice in the service of atonement. Rather twistedly good fun!


The Ghost Bride by Elizabeth Ellen Carter
Bittersweet romance that sees Monty and Jemima stumble across a haunting mystery, steeped in intrigue, bitter jealousy and the deep traumatic love of a restless spirit. Highly enjoyable suspense driven fun that had great chemistry between it's intellectual leads and reflected the eery and immeasurably lovely in equal measure. The characters were well defined, sparkled and jumped from the page; while the plot enticed with suspense as the romance built and sweetly simmered. A tale that remained in my mind long after I finished reading it.

Haunted Knight by Elizabeth Johns
Run away Helen plays ghost to prevent the miserable fate of a forced marriage. This one was a short but fun romance. Instant burning attraction, a soul deep need to protect, ghostly rumour and a little help from the supernatural all collide to prevent ruination but might just be the best thing to ever happen to Helen and Martin?
Love the characters and the sense of fun beneath the imminent threat of discovery. This story was heart warmingly good fun but I can't help but hope it gets adapted into a longer book in the future as with a spot of developing what's a great story now could be truly amazing!

The Grey Lady of the Manor by Elizabeth Keysian
Haunted by the ghost of a blacksmith and his lady love and abused by her stepmother, Letty is desperate to escape but her recent clumsiness is causing problems.  Not to mention, a spot of good natured meddling from her employer, in the recruiting of a certain thatcher's apprentice, Perkin, who has been tasked with eradicating her superstition and fear of ghosts, keeps getting in her way. As a result, a suspenseful energy, sinister presence and torment intermingles with a subtle wit, deep unwanted attraction and a magnetic draw that builds to breed a deep longing between the pair and a need to protect. Can the sceptic and the haunted reunite the ghost lovers before it's too late? A really good yarn from start to finish!

A Governess of No Fear by Emily E K Murdoch
This one rather surprisingly made me cry as I became so wrapped up in Evangeline's circumstances and longing, for Mark to return her love, I couldn't help but empathise. I really liked how easy it was to connect with the characters and felt their yearning as they attempted to hint at their feelings while trying to respect their different social standings. With the meddling ghost of Lady Emma determined to finally push them together will their hopes be fulfilled? A sweetly touching 'will they, won't they' romance that held be engaged.

Haunted Hart by Emily Royal
Oooh it was so lovely getting to spend more time with Fraser and Lilah and their adorable children. I was instantly sucked in by their easy chemistry as Emily Royal set the scene and made it come to life with the sickening feeling that something bad was going to happen it was just a question of when.
Cleverly written tale about the haunting case of mistaken identity and lost love that leads to harrowing consequences with the ability to really make you feel anxious. Great fun!

Rohaise the Red Of Delgatie Castle by Heather McCollum
Kerrick and Abigail's tale was one of my favourites in  this collection. It balanced wit and humour so wonderfully with the impending peril and torment that encroached and lay beneath their instant attraction. Abigail's integral kindness beneath the desperation to escape, mixed with strength and good natured levity (despite her fears) made for such fabulous chemistry between herself and Kerrick. The easy banter and warmth that radiated from the pair made you instantly care and connect with them. I could of easily wallowed away more hours in their presence. As the ghost not just added wit but a heinous measure of darkness to stir the suspense and rile up heart pounding tension. Loved it! A well written tale from a marvellous new found writer for me.

Once Upon A Haunted Heart by Anna St. Claire
Being the newly appointed Earl of Whitlock isn't the only thing Edward has inherited but a curse placed upon his line by his late cousin's mysterious betrothed. As a result, mishaps and accidents keep befalling Violet, his fiancée. Can these just be a string of eery coincidences or is something much more sinister afoot? Will Edward be able to uncover the mysteries and secrets surrounding his family's past before it proves fatal? This was a peril fueled adventure of mishaps led by suspense and guided by two of the kindest people you'll ever chance to meet. This had such a sweet romantic thread that ran between Violet and Edward as wit, humour and deep love collided with the danger that was ever encroaching in the shadows. An enjoyable story.

The Lair of the Burrells (The Brazen Burrells prequel) by Lynne Connolly
I liked this one very much - the passion, strength and assurance of the newly weds' love and steadfast characters was so refreshing to behold, not to mention heartwarming.
Lynne Connolly plunges the reader straight into the tragic horrors of a storm at sea instantly sucking me in with needing to know their fate and if they will ever find their way back to each other. It may leave more questions than answers regarding the subcharacters and their entangled past histories but this has been designed to set up what promises to be a very emotionally entangling series even if it makes for a rather abrupt ending here. The brother's story holds a particular interest and allure for me, one I hope I will get to hear more about in the future.
A thoroughly entertaining read that has a subtle wit interwoven amongst the perilous and hostile atmosphere that threatens Cecilia and Frank's promise of a happy future.

Guardian of Midnight Manor by Maeve Greyson
Arthur and Jennet's tale is full of colourful wit and charm. The characters shine and the tale radiates with warmth and good humour. A wonderful addition, that is well written and ends on a twist I just didn't see coming. Wonderful!!

The Dauntless Boy by Whitney Blake
A mildly gothic aroma clings to this tale steeped in mystery, intrigue and a reclusively clandestine master. A curious maid, murderous rumours and a guilt ridden haunting combine and evolve to shed light on a family secret that's not what it appears. Ariadne and Francis' tale is full of sexual allure, revealing truths and one boldly fearless heroine. A great way to end a highly entertaining collection that brings together a good mixture of talented authors who have each approached the haunting/ghost theme from a vast array of different angles to provide a collection of uniquely original novellas!! That successfully produce a combination of heart warming, humourous and downright chilling stories. Well worth the read!!
Profile Image for Sharon.
2,770 reviews7 followers
November 10, 2021
I enjoyed reading these various short stories by various authors based on some myth, legend, Known haunted sight or a poem. I love the haunted historical background for unique romance stories. My personal opinion on each:

Nevermore- 2* not my cup of tea, more of an justified Murder than haunted story although if you follow and read some of the authors stories this one ties one of her series.

Into the Night- 5* Author created a fun haunted romance fictional story of a real inn said to be haunted -Ancient Ram Inn. Loved it!

The Stones of Ard Crain- 4.5* fated love with a haunted background! great story.

White Lady Lost - 4.5* wonderful ghost story where 2 fell in love as they help a ghost.

The Others of Ochil-5*wonderful ghost story of fated love for both humans and ghost, includes breaking a curse to be with ones true love.

Moonstone Landing- 5*- fated love but one's a ghost and yes the story and plot makes sense. I felt happy mixed with sadness at the end but there is a hea (of sorts).

Belware Bridge- 4.5*- a good haunting story of why it is good to listen to your elders and follow traditions. :)

The Bridge to Love-5* - newly reacquaint friends turn true love try to reunite ghost who are true lovers separated in death.

Blind Faith - 4.5* - A military hero now blind hires a tutor for night writing/housekeeper (due to his friend's advice) The "invisible lady" plays matchmaker.

Percy's Perdition- 3.5/4*- very unique story because of the research and knowledge of the setting of the story (rings of hell) is intriguing, but it really didn't have a good satisfying hea.

The Ghost Bride - 5* great story of good and bad ghost with a budding romance in the mix and a Loving HEA!

Haunted Knight -4.5 a runway lady a knight who needed ghost off his country estate and the ghost who protects her daughter makes for a wonderful story and a sweet HEA

The Grey Lady of the Manor -4.3* great story need more at towards the end, but does have a loving hea. The H goads the h about ghost and curses thats she believes in.

The Governess of No Fear - 4.3* would love for this to have more details towards the end but a wonderful story with a matchmaking ghost and has a loving hea.

Haunted Hart - 4.5* - an entertaining story of a ghost who is looking/waiting for her lost love helps in a haunting way another couple who drifted emotionally.

Rohaise the Red - 5* An intriguing and some what scary story of a ghost who helps a girl/lady in trouble for her own use. (read this the day after I did/discover my ancestry on Hay's how ironic)

Once Upon a Haunted Heart - 5* A captivating story of a ghost interfering with a couple because of the curse she put on the family when she was alive.

The Lairs of Burrells - 4* an intriguing story with some drama always going on but with helpful ghost all will be well. This needs another chapter or epilogue for a hea.

Guardian of Midnight Manor - 5* My favorite so far sweet, fun, and witty with a loving and humorous HEA.

the Dauntless boy - 4.5* Unique story with a good hea.
Profile Image for Viper Spaulding.
3,147 reviews25 followers
October 21, 2021
Thoroughly captivating romances!

This is a fabulous set of short romances with something for everyone who loves a little spooky edge to their stories. Twenty separate tales by twenty different authors ensure that there's something here for everyone. This is a huge collection, well over a thousand pages, chock full of steamy romances that cross over the veil and inject a bit of mystical magic into each couple's story.

My favorite was "Rohaise the Red" by Heather McCollum, where Abigail and Kerrick have a complicated relationship with the ghost haunting his castle, all while they're trying to figure out if there's a future relationship in store for themselves as well. The bravery shown by Abigail was inspiring, and Kerrick rises to every challenge and proves to be the hero she needs. I loved the inventive solution at the end, where the worst thing that happened to her turned out to be the best in the end.

I also adored "Nevermore" by Kathryn Le Veque. Atreus and Mariana have been separated by evil forces long enough, but when her life is threatened the solution is horrifyingly justified.

"Into the Night" by Chasity Bowlin brings Simon and Clara together at a haunted inn. I guarantee this story will make you think twice about even modern hotel accommodations.

"Blind Faith" by Anna Markland is a sweet story about a hero facing impossible challenges. Its insightful look at vision impairment was nothing short of amazing, and I enjoyed it very much.

These are only a few of the many wonderful stories included. There's a lot of references to real-life legends and ghost stories, so if you're like me and love the history behind it all there's plenty here to get you started. I highly recommend this collection for anyone who loves romance with a slice of spine-chilling supernatural phenomena. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for JenReviews4U.
475 reviews
October 21, 2021
You will want to have this collection for your very own. This is a collection of short stories, maybe 30 or so pages, each all having a spooky or Halloween vibe to them. Each one is written by an author signed with Dragonblade Publishing. And if you know this publisher or any of the authors, you know these are novels worth having, stories that will thrill you, stories you won't be able to put down.
Each story here in this collection is different, the steam levels vary, and for sure there is something for everyone in here.
I was super excited for this collection of some of my favorite authors and some new ones I will be looking more into. I received an advanced copy in exchange for my review but I also have purchased the collection to have in my library. Highly recommend this huge book!
Profile Image for Margaret Watkins.
3,547 reviews88 followers
October 23, 2021
I was lured into reading this book as many of my favorite authors participated in the anthology. However, I am still not a fan of gothic historical romance even though there were some really enjoyable novels in between the ghoulish, macabre, and hauntings. I did read the entire boxset and particularly enjoyed those books that had a background in archeology and the origins of night reading. Although some of the specters were evil to the core, others just wanted justice for the wrongs done to them. I found Moonstone Landing particularly sweet as love crossed over from two worlds. I received a copy of this anthology as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Janet.
5,171 reviews65 followers
October 22, 2021
A wonderful anthology of novellas featuring 20 brilliant authors. Whilst I’ve not yet read all of the stories the ones I have read have been so good
The Bridge to Love Alexa Aston a bridge joins two properties it's also where lovers meet centuries apart. I loved this story which was an emotional read.
Moonstone Landing Meara Platt a haunted seaside cottage. Another brilliant novella I loved Brioc & Lady Henleigh
The Dauntless Boy Whitney Blake a new author to me & this very spooky read was SO entertaining
Entertaining, well written short stories ideal for whiling away a couple of hours
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Profile Image for isara.
65 reviews40 followers
October 24, 2021
Thank you for an eARC in exchange for a honest review :)

I personally love historical and romance books so these two combined in a book is just *chefs kiss*

The plot was good however I wished it would be more thilling but I guess I gave too much attention to the cover of the book because I was expecting much more spookiness.

I enjoyed the book but probably wouldn’t reread it BUT I‘m looking forward to the other books of the author!
Profile Image for  ☾La Musa literaria☽.
148 reviews1 follower
October 28, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and the authors for providing this advanced copy.

This book is a whirlwind of emotions, each story surpasses the last and I loved how the mystical aura was present.
I would have liked it to be longer but I am delighted with the result.
(By the way, my favourite story is the first one).

<< 𝕳𝖔𝖜𝖑𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖉𝖊𝖒𝖔𝖓𝖘 𝖘𝖍𝖗𝖎𝖊𝖐𝖊𝖉 𝖆𝖘 𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖞 𝖊𝖓𝖈𝖎𝖗𝖈𝖑𝖊𝖉 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖆𝖇𝖇𝖊𝖞, 𝖘𝖈𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖒𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖎𝖗 𝖍𝖊𝖎𝖓𝖔𝖚𝖘 𝖙𝖍𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖘 𝖔𝖋 𝖋𝖊𝖆𝖗 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝖕𝖆𝖎𝖓 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖙𝖔 𝖍𝖊𝖆𝖗.>>

Sencillamente sensacional ✨
Profile Image for Sue.
4,344 reviews5 followers
October 21, 2021
Kathryn's story about Atreus and Marianna was definitely spooky. The Abbess was definitely better suited somewhere else. She was mean and evil. Thank goodness Atreus and Markus figured out something was wrong when she didn't show up to meet him like she was supposed to. But a HEA for them anyway. I just reviewed Upon a Midnight Dreary: A Halloween Anthology by Kathryn Le Veque, Chasity Bowlin, Hildie McQueen and More!. #UponaMidnightDrearyAHalloweenAnthology #NetGalley
50 reviews1 follower
October 24, 2021
multiple authors.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The best thing about it was that it opened me up to new books by new to me authors. However Kathryn LeVeque will remain me favorite of them all.
Profile Image for Amy Green.
2 reviews20 followers
October 24, 2021
Get swept up in this ravishing romance! Richly detailed with characters you really care about. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Evelyn.
Author 10 books81 followers
November 14, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this anthology of Gothic Romance Ghost Stories. All of them were very well written with engaging characters. And only two stories with graphic sex scenes that added nothing to the plots. If it were not for these two stories, I would have given it 5 stars.
272 reviews
October 27, 2021
Spooky till the end

Very good read. All stories different but very enjoyable. It's a can't miss collaboration of stories that you will enjoy
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,001 reviews18 followers
November 14, 2021
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

This is a great collection of novellas! There was not a single one that I did not enjoy (which is quite a feat considering how many stories were included). A lot of the stories were love stories with a ghostly twist, but there were a few that I really wish I hadn't read right before bedtime. Perhaps what I loved most was that I was introduced to so many great authors that I had never read before and to series that I now want to track down and read all of.

I won't go through a review of all the stories because there were so many. Those that really stayed with me long after I finished them were: Nevermore (trust me, the ending will stick with you), Into the Night (because it was the creepiest/scariest of all of them), The Others of Ochil (a sweet story), Belware Bridge (kind of a Headless Horseman vibe), The Bridge to Love (Alexa Aston is one of my favorite authors and this story started out with a heartbreaking story, but ended much more happily), Blind Faith (loved the character of Amelia and this story made me want to read the rest of the series), The Ghost Bride (just a good ghostly mystery), Rohaise the Red (took an interesting twist), The Lair of the Burrells (I really wanted this one to be longer), and Guardian of Midnight Manor (this one had a twist that I definitely did not see coming).
23 reviews
November 13, 2021
Spooky reading for Halloween

I love how all the writers came out to write all different ghost stories in one book. Perfect time for Halloween spooky. Love it
1,493 reviews3 followers
November 14, 2021
Good read

Most of these were more medium-short stories than books. Some were good, some were spell binding, and some not so much.
Would still recommend for short reading.
536 reviews
November 14, 2021
Nice group of books but most are mild/sweet. I prefer spicier books

Books # 1,2,3,8,9,18 (4*)
Book #15 ( 5*)
Books# 4,5,11,12,13,14,16,19,20 (3*)….#17 (3.5*)
Books # 7,10 (1*)
Profile Image for Ann Gonzalez.
1,498 reviews15 followers
October 25, 2021
This book was quite the collection of romantically Haunted stories. Overall it was a great collection, but my favorites were the stories by Meara Platt, Elizabeth Johns, and Kathryn LeVeque. I recommend this set to anyone that likes ethereal beings and romance.
I received this book from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for an honest review.
Profile Image for Pat Robinson.
850 reviews10 followers
October 26, 2021
Great book of novellas for Halloween

Some scary, some sweet, some spooky all of these stories were enjoyable. I also enjoyed the brevity of them as they can be read quickly!
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