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Beatrix Greene
Written by New York Times bestselling author Rachel Hawkins, this historical horror story traps a group of sleuths in a haunted house desperate to escape the wrath of a vengeful ghost.
Beatrix Greene makes her living by playing pretend. She knows the seances she conducts are fake, but financial freedom for a single woman in Victorian England is hard to come by. So when notorious scientist James Walker makes her a proposition— prove that ghosts are real, once and for all, for a hefty price— she can’t resist the temptation.
But the ghosts of Ashbury Manor are very real, indeed, and when Beatrix summons one by accident, she and the other guests of the evening are terrified but find the doors of the manor won’t allow escape. Only unraveling secrets from the Manor’s past will banish the ghost for good. As time runs out and death stalks the halls, Beatrix and James must work together or risk being the haunting’s next victims.
Beatrix Greene makes her living by playing pretend. She knows the seances she conducts are fake, but financial freedom for a single woman in Victorian England is hard to come by. So when notorious scientist James Walker makes her a proposition— prove that ghosts are real, once and for all, for a hefty price— she can’t resist the temptation.
But the ghosts of Ashbury Manor are very real, indeed, and when Beatrix summons one by accident, she and the other guests of the evening are terrified but find the doors of the manor won’t allow escape. Only unraveling secrets from the Manor’s past will banish the ghost for good. As time runs out and death stalks the halls, Beatrix and James must work together or risk being the haunting’s next victims.
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First published August 7, 2020
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About the author
Rachel Hawkins
28 books20.6k followers Rachel Hawkins is the New York Times bestselling author of The Wife Upstairs, Reckless Girls, The Villa, and The Heiress, as well as multiple books for young readers. Her work has been translated into over two dozen languages. She studied gender and sexuality in Victorian literature at Auburn University and currently lives in Alabama.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 504 reviews
February 26, 2021
A haunted gothic, frightening, ghostly Victorian mansion where a massacre of mother and son have taken place! I don’t know you my friends but I already started to hear Twilight Zone’s theme song in my head!
Let’s take a look of this fast pacing horror novella’s storyline!
James Walker challenges Beatrix Greene to become his guest for one night at Ashbury Manor, conducting a spiritual seance to talk with the haunted spirits of the place, releasing their souls by ending their suffer and despair.
James believes in science and he is suspicious about the gifts of Beatrice and Lady Greene needs her independence by being financially secured. The money James offered may help her for the brighter future plans even that means she has to outsmart him with her talent and make him believe she can really connect with dead souls. But can she be a talented actress to convince him he was wrong about her from the beginning?
What if she’s not a charlatan as like she thinks about herself. What if she can really connect with the souls and give the loved ones the closure they need by releasing them.
As soon as their carriage approaches to Ashbury Manor, deep in her soul she feels the deadly vibes coming from inside to warn her stay away from the place.
A talented photographer Mrs. Reynolds, her old actor friend Harry and Dr. Doyle- a talented mystery novels author who is interested in occult join with them. (Actually Dr. Doyle starts running away as soon as he takes a few steps to the entrance of manor because he feels something terribly wrong as like Beatrice did. )
Unfortunately Beatrice does not have a chance to escape or quit. She needs money and she needs to prove her talent to Mr. Walker by sharpening her acting skills.
But when they start their special seance, an uninvited visitor appears and so many eerie, unexpected, jaw dropping, horrific things start to happen!
No more talking about how the story goes on. Just grab the book and get lost in that gothic, blood freezing, well written story.
Three brilliant authors created this delicious horror show and give us a quality, entertaining time as if you’re binge watching addictive episodes of captivating series! I read it at one sit and I wish there was more!
Highly recommend it to genre lovers!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Serial Box for sharing this ARC with me in exchange my honest opinions.
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Let’s take a look of this fast pacing horror novella’s storyline!
James Walker challenges Beatrix Greene to become his guest for one night at Ashbury Manor, conducting a spiritual seance to talk with the haunted spirits of the place, releasing their souls by ending their suffer and despair.
James believes in science and he is suspicious about the gifts of Beatrice and Lady Greene needs her independence by being financially secured. The money James offered may help her for the brighter future plans even that means she has to outsmart him with her talent and make him believe she can really connect with dead souls. But can she be a talented actress to convince him he was wrong about her from the beginning?
What if she’s not a charlatan as like she thinks about herself. What if she can really connect with the souls and give the loved ones the closure they need by releasing them.
As soon as their carriage approaches to Ashbury Manor, deep in her soul she feels the deadly vibes coming from inside to warn her stay away from the place.
A talented photographer Mrs. Reynolds, her old actor friend Harry and Dr. Doyle- a talented mystery novels author who is interested in occult join with them. (Actually Dr. Doyle starts running away as soon as he takes a few steps to the entrance of manor because he feels something terribly wrong as like Beatrice did. )
Unfortunately Beatrice does not have a chance to escape or quit. She needs money and she needs to prove her talent to Mr. Walker by sharpening her acting skills.
But when they start their special seance, an uninvited visitor appears and so many eerie, unexpected, jaw dropping, horrific things start to happen!
No more talking about how the story goes on. Just grab the book and get lost in that gothic, blood freezing, well written story.
Three brilliant authors created this delicious horror show and give us a quality, entertaining time as if you’re binge watching addictive episodes of captivating series! I read it at one sit and I wish there was more!
Highly recommend it to genre lovers!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Serial Box for sharing this ARC with me in exchange my honest opinions.
blog
October 12, 2020
In Victorian England, Beatrix Greene is known as a discreet and demure spiritual medium. She's never flashy, never uses the crude gimmicks of the fraudsters of her time. She sees one client at a time and she likes to think she helps the client to see that their person has moved on and is at peace on the other side. In a clever way, a scientist attracts Beatrix to him and enlists her aid in discerning whether or not a mansion is haunted. Since this story is told in installments, I'm going to have to wait for the next eight episodes to find out more but I do know I'm very eager to follow this story further.
Expected publication: October 28th 2020
https://www.serialbox.com/serials/the...
Thank you to Serial Box and NetGalley for this ARC. This first episode is also available as a Kindle Unlimited selection.
Expected publication: October 28th 2020
https://www.serialbox.com/serials/the...
Thank you to Serial Box and NetGalley for this ARC. This first episode is also available as a Kindle Unlimited selection.
November 5, 2020
*3.5 stars *
Beatrix Greene is a spiritual medium - she has the ability to contact the dead - or does she?
Scientist and sceptic James Walker, makes it his business to discredit mediums as the frauds that he believes they are, however, he has an offer for Beatrix - to spend the night in the reputedly haunted Ashbury Manor, to deliver undisputed evidence of a vengeful spirit, or to discover whether these claims are in fact groundless, and he’s willing to pay a handsome fee for her services.
Victorian gothic, with the requisite haunted house, a dark and vengeful spirit - you get the idea. I didn’t realise that this was episode one of nine, so it was a somewhat abrupt ending, but that said, it did whet my appetite for more.
Beatrix Greene is a spiritual medium - she has the ability to contact the dead - or does she?
Scientist and sceptic James Walker, makes it his business to discredit mediums as the frauds that he believes they are, however, he has an offer for Beatrix - to spend the night in the reputedly haunted Ashbury Manor, to deliver undisputed evidence of a vengeful spirit, or to discover whether these claims are in fact groundless, and he’s willing to pay a handsome fee for her services.
Victorian gothic, with the requisite haunted house, a dark and vengeful spirit - you get the idea. I didn’t realise that this was episode one of nine, so it was a somewhat abrupt ending, but that said, it did whet my appetite for more.
October 11, 2020
A spiritual medium, a disbelieving scientist, a haunted house and vengeful sprits make for a perfect spooky fall read.
Beatrix Greene has been invited to Ashbury Manor by James Walker. They are accompanied by her her friend and a photographer. Mr. Walker is not very upfront about his intentions but the money he is offering seals the deal. Is the house really haunted?
This proved to be a fast, engaging and riveting page turner for me. Very Gothic, very atmospheric, and very entertaining. The story flowed smoothly. I enjoyed that nothing felt like filler. This is a short book with a HUGE payoff in enjoyability. Spooky, creepy, tense and with a sense of dread, this story never disappointed.
Will this book and its characters haunt you? They did me!
Thank you to Serial Box and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Beatrix Greene has been invited to Ashbury Manor by James Walker. They are accompanied by her her friend and a photographer. Mr. Walker is not very upfront about his intentions but the money he is offering seals the deal. Is the house really haunted?
This proved to be a fast, engaging and riveting page turner for me. Very Gothic, very atmospheric, and very entertaining. The story flowed smoothly. I enjoyed that nothing felt like filler. This is a short book with a HUGE payoff in enjoyability. Spooky, creepy, tense and with a sense of dread, this story never disappointed.
Will this book and its characters haunt you? They did me!
Thank you to Serial Box and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 11, 2020
3.5
This has been ALL over my home screen, so, I HAD to know more!
Especially since one of the three authors collaborating on this story was Rachel Hawkins (The Wife Upstairs-releasing in January)
What I didn’t realize was that it was episode 1 of 9, of a Serial Box story.
Serial Box releases original ebooks which come with Audible, one episode per week, like a TV show.
The Audible has several narrators and sound effects, and you can read and listen, or switch between the two. You purchase just the stories which interest you from the genres of Sci-fi, Fantasy, Horror, Action/Adventure, Mystery and Thriller.
In this story, set in Victorian England, a scientist attempts to expose a spiritual medium as a fraud.
BUT, is she?
I am not sure that this particular story is for me, but I am intrigued by Serial Box, and spotted a couple of other stories which I think would be a better fit, so I may give one of those a try!
This has been ALL over my home screen, so, I HAD to know more!
Especially since one of the three authors collaborating on this story was Rachel Hawkins (The Wife Upstairs-releasing in January)
What I didn’t realize was that it was episode 1 of 9, of a Serial Box story.
Serial Box releases original ebooks which come with Audible, one episode per week, like a TV show.
The Audible has several narrators and sound effects, and you can read and listen, or switch between the two. You purchase just the stories which interest you from the genres of Sci-fi, Fantasy, Horror, Action/Adventure, Mystery and Thriller.
In this story, set in Victorian England, a scientist attempts to expose a spiritual medium as a fraud.
BUT, is she?
I am not sure that this particular story is for me, but I am intrigued by Serial Box, and spotted a couple of other stories which I think would be a better fit, so I may give one of those a try!
September 11, 2020
What a great book to read in time for Halloween! It contains all that is necessary for a very spooky read, a haunted house, a medium, a very frightening basement, and of course a macabre monster that has inhabited the home for eons.
It's a quick read and one that keeps the tension going until the end. A very short book and one that is sure to thrill those who seek some fun on a spooky night.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book due out October 28, 2020.
It's a quick read and one that keeps the tension going until the end. A very short book and one that is sure to thrill those who seek some fun on a spooky night.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book due out October 28, 2020.
October 12, 2020
London
Really enjoyed this sneak peak of THE HAUNTING OF BEATRIX GREENE.
Even though we've heard a similar scenario....spiritual reader/medium invited to seek out and prove a vengeful spirit exists in a haunted house, I like the Victorian era setting and old fashioned type storyline as well as the two characters we've already met.
Want to continue reading NOW! ☹️
October 28, 2020
This is a relatively quick read featuring a spooky Victorian manor—and an instalove romance that I did NOT sign up for.
I don’t buy into the contrived romance of this story because, quite frankly, I didn’t see anything romance-worthy about either of the parties—Beatrix or James—beyond the fact that they’re both oh-so-attractive. (Not to mention, James was kind of caveman-possessive of Beatrix, which was especially off-putting since he’d known her for all of like a day.) I think if the story had taken the arc at even a SLIGHTLY slower pace, I could’ve found the romance more believable and thus enjoyable.
Also, they’d be in the middle of a creepy moment and suddenly Beatrix can't help but notice James’ “vibrant blue eyes” and James is just ogling her graceful neck?? That was so bizarre. And, like Elena says in this review, it really pulled me out of the story.
There are also some details that baffled me. For example, how did James Walker—the man who’s made a living out of exposing fraudulent mediums—immediately know that Beatrix was a “real” one? I don’t doubt her powers, just his uncanny ability to detect them (and the book’s lack of elaboration on this highly convenient plot point). It was also weirdly convenient that Harry had left the manor to traipse to the town bar and thus missed the bulk of the action; that felt kind of random.
Otherwise, the horror elements of this story were pretty decent. Not particularly subtle, but ominous all the same—especially the gruesome action at the end. It’s just unfortunate that it took me until the 70% mark to really feel invested in the horror/mystery plot.
Bottom line: I’d recommend this to anyone who doesn’t mind (or dare I say even enjoys) generic romances, and doesn’t mind the action only picking up in the latter half. (TW for gore!)
Thank you NetGalley and Serial Box for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I don’t buy into the contrived romance of this story because, quite frankly, I didn’t see anything romance-worthy about either of the parties—Beatrix or James—beyond the fact that they’re both oh-so-attractive. (Not to mention, James was kind of caveman-possessive of Beatrix, which was especially off-putting since he’d known her for all of like a day.) I think if the story had taken the arc at even a SLIGHTLY slower pace, I could’ve found the romance more believable and thus enjoyable.
Also, they’d be in the middle of a creepy moment and suddenly Beatrix can't help but notice James’ “vibrant blue eyes” and James is just ogling her graceful neck?? That was so bizarre. And, like Elena says in this review, it really pulled me out of the story.
There are also some details that baffled me. For example, how did James Walker—the man who’s made a living out of exposing fraudulent mediums—immediately know that Beatrix was a “real” one? I don’t doubt her powers, just his uncanny ability to detect them (and the book’s lack of elaboration on this highly convenient plot point). It was also weirdly convenient that Harry had left the manor to traipse to the town bar and thus missed the bulk of the action; that felt kind of random.
Otherwise, the horror elements of this story were pretty decent. Not particularly subtle, but ominous all the same—especially the gruesome action at the end. It’s just unfortunate that it took me until the 70% mark to really feel invested in the horror/mystery plot.
Bottom line: I’d recommend this to anyone who doesn’t mind (or dare I say even enjoys) generic romances, and doesn’t mind the action only picking up in the latter half. (TW for gore!)
Thank you NetGalley and Serial Box for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2020
This was a really good haunted house story!! And I don’t know about you, but I really love a haunted house story that is well done. And for being so short, James and Beatrix are fairly well developed. I also adored Amanda, she was most likely my favorite character of all. Haz also added a bit of fun even though he wasn’t very developed.
To be honest, I don’t get very scared by ghost stories because I just don’t believe in ghosts. But I still enjoy a book that can make them seem real enough to give me chills up my spine. This was definitely enough to give me those chills and make me imagine that ghosts could possibly be real. I should probably note that I didn’t just read Episode 1. I read the whole book and I’m pretty sure if you start this one, you won’t be able to stop at just Episode 1.
It drew me in very quickly and was very intrigued by Beatrix and her firm belief that ghosts don’t exist even though her profession is firmly based on the assumption that they do. Either way, if ghosts are real or not, this book was very good. Short enough to devour quickly and if you like ghost stories, especially ones about haunted houses, then this is for you!!
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Serial Box for letting me read this for my honest and unbiased opinion.
To be honest, I don’t get very scared by ghost stories because I just don’t believe in ghosts. But I still enjoy a book that can make them seem real enough to give me chills up my spine. This was definitely enough to give me those chills and make me imagine that ghosts could possibly be real. I should probably note that I didn’t just read Episode 1. I read the whole book and I’m pretty sure if you start this one, you won’t be able to stop at just Episode 1.
It drew me in very quickly and was very intrigued by Beatrix and her firm belief that ghosts don’t exist even though her profession is firmly based on the assumption that they do. Either way, if ghosts are real or not, this book was very good. Short enough to devour quickly and if you like ghost stories, especially ones about haunted houses, then this is for you!!
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Serial Box for letting me read this for my honest and unbiased opinion.
October 4, 2020
The Haunting of Beatrix Greene is like a Netflix series in written form. Instead of seasons, you have chapters. In this case, it’s the first season (chapter) with nine complete episodes.
Beatrix Greene is a fake spiritualist, but no one knows that. She prides herself on her acting ability. Conning people is her specialty. She leads people to believe that she can communicate with their loved ones that have passed.
One fateful day, Beatrix is hired to perform a seance in a purportedly haunted house. What transpire is a spine chilling story with sinister undertones that will keep you up at night.
Not quite a five star read because some elements of the story just didn’t fit in my opinion. Still, The Haunting of Beatrix Greene was an enjoyable story. Four stars. It’s the perfect book to read for Halloween.
I received a digital ARC from Serial Box through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opnions.
Beatrix Greene is a fake spiritualist, but no one knows that. She prides herself on her acting ability. Conning people is her specialty. She leads people to believe that she can communicate with their loved ones that have passed.
One fateful day, Beatrix is hired to perform a seance in a purportedly haunted house. What transpire is a spine chilling story with sinister undertones that will keep you up at night.
Not quite a five star read because some elements of the story just didn’t fit in my opinion. Still, The Haunting of Beatrix Greene was an enjoyable story. Four stars. It’s the perfect book to read for Halloween.
I received a digital ARC from Serial Box through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opnions.
September 22, 2020
The Haunting of Beatrix Greene: Episode 1, a horror book, was a solid 4 stars.
The book centers around Beatrix, a young woman who makes a living as a spiritual medium and taking on clients that want to contact loved ones from beyond. A smart and strong woman, she is challenged one night by James Walker to conduct a seance at the famous Ashbury Manor. The motive of James Walker isn’t apparent at the time but with a large amount of money at stake, Beatrix knows it could offer her the financial freedom that she so desperately wants. She agrees to go to Ashbury Manor and the story really takes a creepy turn.
The Haunting of Beatrix Greene: Episode 1, was an enjoyable gothic horror book that had me engaged throughout-with likable characters and an interesting storyline, it is well worth the read. Recommended to fans of horror/dark and young adult books. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The book centers around Beatrix, a young woman who makes a living as a spiritual medium and taking on clients that want to contact loved ones from beyond. A smart and strong woman, she is challenged one night by James Walker to conduct a seance at the famous Ashbury Manor. The motive of James Walker isn’t apparent at the time but with a large amount of money at stake, Beatrix knows it could offer her the financial freedom that she so desperately wants. She agrees to go to Ashbury Manor and the story really takes a creepy turn.
The Haunting of Beatrix Greene: Episode 1, was an enjoyable gothic horror book that had me engaged throughout-with likable characters and an interesting storyline, it is well worth the read. Recommended to fans of horror/dark and young adult books. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2020
This was interesting! I hadn’t heard of Serial Box until recently, but essentially each short installment of a story is released periodically, like episodes. This was “episode 1” of this story, and it definitely piqued my interest! I’ll be looking for episode 2 tomorrow!
October 28, 2020
Thank you, NetGalley, Rachel Hawkins, Ash Parsons, Vicky Alvear Shecter, and Serial Box Publishing for the opportunity to read this book!
The Haunting of Beatrix Greene by Rachel Hawkins, Ash Parsons, and Vicky Alvear Shecter caught my eye while browsing through NetGalley. With Halloween looming, I knew I had to read it! Beatrix Greene brings comfort to those who lost loved ones by pretending to communicate with their spirits. When a scientist named James Walker asks for her to come to Ashbury Manor to hold a seance she is skeptical. He is known for trying to discredit mediums but she can’t refuse the generous payment she will receive. Beatrix is immediately concerned upon entering the manor. Something isn’t right, there is an evil that lurks here that no one can imagine.
This is definitely a unique horror story. It is laid out in “episodes” rather than chapters. It feels as if I am reading a Netflix series. In fact, I just finished watching The Haunting of Hill House and The Haunting of Bly Manor and I felt the same vibe in this book. It is similar in the sense that the house itself is corrupted and evil. The ghosts there are just trying to help. This story had some extremely creepy moments. I got the chills during the scene where hands are reaching out grabbing them as they run down a hallway.
I really loved the characters. Beatrix and Harry have a wonderful friendship that reminded me of some of my friendships. However, this book is all about Beatrix and Amanda. In Victorian times, it is always pleasant to see fierce women. My only complaint is the lack of development. While I loved the characters, there could have been more, but I also wanted more plot development with the plot and background. It felt very thin at times. However, if these authors ever collab again, I will definitely check it out. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. This book is available on October 28th!! Read it to get into the Halloween mood!
The Haunting of Beatrix Greene by Rachel Hawkins, Ash Parsons, and Vicky Alvear Shecter caught my eye while browsing through NetGalley. With Halloween looming, I knew I had to read it! Beatrix Greene brings comfort to those who lost loved ones by pretending to communicate with their spirits. When a scientist named James Walker asks for her to come to Ashbury Manor to hold a seance she is skeptical. He is known for trying to discredit mediums but she can’t refuse the generous payment she will receive. Beatrix is immediately concerned upon entering the manor. Something isn’t right, there is an evil that lurks here that no one can imagine.
This is definitely a unique horror story. It is laid out in “episodes” rather than chapters. It feels as if I am reading a Netflix series. In fact, I just finished watching The Haunting of Hill House and The Haunting of Bly Manor and I felt the same vibe in this book. It is similar in the sense that the house itself is corrupted and evil. The ghosts there are just trying to help. This story had some extremely creepy moments. I got the chills during the scene where hands are reaching out grabbing them as they run down a hallway.
I really loved the characters. Beatrix and Harry have a wonderful friendship that reminded me of some of my friendships. However, this book is all about Beatrix and Amanda. In Victorian times, it is always pleasant to see fierce women. My only complaint is the lack of development. While I loved the characters, there could have been more, but I also wanted more plot development with the plot and background. It felt very thin at times. However, if these authors ever collab again, I will definitely check it out. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. This book is available on October 28th!! Read it to get into the Halloween mood!
October 30, 2020
Many thanks to Net Galley, Serial Box publishing and the authors for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A book that is perfect for the Halloween, blustery night curled up in a sofa with logs burning in the fireplace...🎃👻🎃👻
OK honestly that is dream scenario for all book addicts, the absolute peace to read a book.
The Haunting Of Beatrix Greene Vol 1 is like an episode series perfect to be telecast to Netflix or Amazon Prime or any OTT platforms.
The prologue of the story runs a chill up the spine with a gruesome scene of murder and mayhem. The chapters are kept short and snappy with events unfolding one after another. The spooky, gothic atmosphere of the manor is exceedingly well done with the darkness permeating every corner of the house.
For a medium who doesn't believe in ghosts, Beatrix aims to provide the answers sought by James Walker, The Lord of Ashbury Manor. Along with Amanda Reynolds, Harry and Stanhope, Beatrix proceeds with the tasks entrusted to her but realizes the extent of the evil presence that rains hell on each and every one of them.
The last segment of the story was bit bizarre with too many things happening and dramatic and one particular scene with Stanhope was utterly ghastly and nightmarish.
Beatrix Greene is an excellent character and her relationship with Harry a delight to read, the romance between Beatrix and James a perfect addition to this tale of good vs evil. I hope their adventures are just beginning and there are many more stories to come.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/; Amazon India, Goodreads, and Twitter.
October 10, 2020
This did not fit very well with me.
Although I can value the effort made by the authors, and that the best part about this book is that the main character is decently built, the story and setting could have been done better. By that I mean that the story lacked in depth, and at the beginning, we are thrown into it with barely any context or worldbuilding. Also, the story bounces between creepy, horror elements and sudden romantic parts, which can be a bit confusing at times.
Anyhow, since this is just the beginning, I hope that the story could get better in the future.
Although I can value the effort made by the authors, and that the best part about this book is that the main character is decently built, the story and setting could have been done better. By that I mean that the story lacked in depth, and at the beginning, we are thrown into it with barely any context or worldbuilding. Also, the story bounces between creepy, horror elements and sudden romantic parts, which can be a bit confusing at times.
Anyhow, since this is just the beginning, I hope that the story could get better in the future.
November 15, 2020
This was a delicious way to spend an afternoon! Apparently this is going to be or has been a TV series, but as I don’t watch TVI haven’t seen it. It had all of my favourite ingredients:Victorian spiritualism, seances, charlatans and hoaxes, demons possessing people, ghosts, an evil haunted house and an ancient evil...plus romance! It doesn’t get much better than that! Many thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book.
October 15, 2020
If you are looking for a creepy gothic tale of a haunted house with a bit of romance that you can read in one or two sittings, then The Haunting of Beatrix Greene is perfection! The main character is Beatrix, a woman who earns her livelihood as a medium, but doesn't actually believe in ghosts. So when she's offered a substantial sum to determine whether a supposedly cursed estate is haunted, she thinks it's easy money. Little does she know what she is getting herself into....
The bulk of the story takes place in a single night where things go from spooky to horrifying. This makes it the perfect scope for a novella and I definitely recommend this if you want a bit of gothic horror in shorter form. It was fun with interesting characters, and if it was a bit predictable at times, I really didn't mind. Definitely one worth checking out! Do note that this is a horror novel and includes violence, death, evil spirits, the past death of a child, talk of losing parents, references to domestic violence, and a couple of more gruesome scenes. I received an advance copy of this for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The bulk of the story takes place in a single night where things go from spooky to horrifying. This makes it the perfect scope for a novella and I definitely recommend this if you want a bit of gothic horror in shorter form. It was fun with interesting characters, and if it was a bit predictable at times, I really didn't mind. Definitely one worth checking out! Do note that this is a horror novel and includes violence, death, evil spirits, the past death of a child, talk of losing parents, references to domestic violence, and a couple of more gruesome scenes. I received an advance copy of this for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
September 29, 2020
This was absolutely bloody fantastic!
The story was quick, action packed incredibly well written you can't even tell the difference between the authors writing.
Packed full of malevolence and charm!
This moment gave me full on shivers!
More and more spirits surrounded her. “Who are you?” she asked, her voice thick with awe. Gentle whispers answered. “You brought peace to my father . . .”“My mother could finally let go . . .”“You helped my son . . .” Beatrix gasped. These were the ghosts whose family members she had comforted over the years.
“Above all, I believe,” he said, his lips lingering on her hand, “in the extraordinary brilliance of Beatrix Greene.”
As I do too, she is a brilliantly thought out and created character.
However I have 1 issue and thats when a certain person disappears during a bloody haunting and James and Beatrix go away and have sex.... dont think that was well-placed at all but im willing to overlook it :)
4.5**
The story was quick, action packed incredibly well written you can't even tell the difference between the authors writing.
Packed full of malevolence and charm!
This moment gave me full on shivers!
More and more spirits surrounded her. “Who are you?” she asked, her voice thick with awe. Gentle whispers answered. “You brought peace to my father . . .”“My mother could finally let go . . .”“You helped my son . . .” Beatrix gasped. These were the ghosts whose family members she had comforted over the years.
“Above all, I believe,” he said, his lips lingering on her hand, “in the extraordinary brilliance of Beatrix Greene.”
As I do too, she is a brilliantly thought out and created character.
However I have 1 issue and thats when a certain person disappears during a bloody haunting and James and Beatrix go away and have sex.... dont think that was well-placed at all but im willing to overlook it :)
4.5**
January 7, 2021
This book was great! Beatrix Greene is a spiritual medium who practiced "fake it 'til you make it", defrauding her clientele of hard earned funds while pretending to communicate with the spirits of their deceased loved ones.
Along comes James Walker, an American determined to expose her as a fraud. James hires her - at an exorbitant fee - to go to Ashbury Manor, a notorious haunted house. He wants to prove that she is a fraud. She wants to trick him, as she has done to countless others, and take the money.
But neither the living nor the dead are as they seem, and at Ashbury Manor it all comes to a head.
I enjoyed the way the story was presented as "Season 1, episodes 1-9" and I would love to see it as a real TV series. The plot moved quickly - maybe a tiny bit too quickly, as I would have liked a bit more lingering creepiness before the serious action. The characters were vivid and fun. The payoff was excellent. No bait & switch here. Mid-way though the book something happens that makes me question was genre I was reading, but it ends up fitting nicely into the overall story.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who love gothic horror and mysteries from Victorian England. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Serial Box, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Along comes James Walker, an American determined to expose her as a fraud. James hires her - at an exorbitant fee - to go to Ashbury Manor, a notorious haunted house. He wants to prove that she is a fraud. She wants to trick him, as she has done to countless others, and take the money.
But neither the living nor the dead are as they seem, and at Ashbury Manor it all comes to a head.
I enjoyed the way the story was presented as "Season 1, episodes 1-9" and I would love to see it as a real TV series. The plot moved quickly - maybe a tiny bit too quickly, as I would have liked a bit more lingering creepiness before the serious action. The characters were vivid and fun. The payoff was excellent. No bait & switch here. Mid-way though the book something happens that makes me question was genre I was reading, but it ends up fitting nicely into the overall story.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who love gothic horror and mysteries from Victorian England. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Serial Box, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2020
3.5 actual stars.
Wow! This had it's intense creepy moments that made for a scary read! Totally unexpected, but good.
Set in Victorian England Beatrix Greene is a spiritual medium hired by scientist James Walker to communicate with the dead at a notorious Manor home purported to be haunted, but James is also trying to expose her for the charlatan he believes her to be. James bargains for more than he realized when evil forces are unleashed and the true secrets of the house are revealed. What follows is a sometimes chilling, spine tingling storyline that's scary good!
Wow! This had it's intense creepy moments that made for a scary read! Totally unexpected, but good.
Set in Victorian England Beatrix Greene is a spiritual medium hired by scientist James Walker to communicate with the dead at a notorious Manor home purported to be haunted, but James is also trying to expose her for the charlatan he believes her to be. James bargains for more than he realized when evil forces are unleashed and the true secrets of the house are revealed. What follows is a sometimes chilling, spine tingling storyline that's scary good!
October 23, 2020
Well, what an enjoyable little book this turned out to be! A quick, creepy, scary, haunted house story, perfect for this time of year (Halloween). The entire time I kept reading it thinking "this would make a most excellent Netflix show or movie!" (take the hint Netflix 😉). If you are a fan of The Haunting of Hill House, then this book would be perfect for you!
**ARC provided by NetGalley**
**ARC provided by NetGalley**
October 5, 2020
*** I received an eArc of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
Overall I found this a fun, spooky supernatural mystery. I loved that this book was set in Victorian England. I think it gave the novel an extra burst of energy and atmosphere. I loved the main character of Beatrix Greene. She is a spunky character who is fearless and full of adventure.
I loved how this book was organized in an episodic format. I felt the mystery slowly build with each "episode" and I loved how the possession and haunting of the mansion grew with each episode.
I enjoyed this story immensely and recommend it to anyone who enjoys their share of scares.
I received this eArc from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Overall I found this a fun, spooky supernatural mystery. I loved that this book was set in Victorian England. I think it gave the novel an extra burst of energy and atmosphere. I loved the main character of Beatrix Greene. She is a spunky character who is fearless and full of adventure.
I loved how this book was organized in an episodic format. I felt the mystery slowly build with each "episode" and I loved how the possession and haunting of the mansion grew with each episode.
I enjoyed this story immensely and recommend it to anyone who enjoys their share of scares.
I received this eArc from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
October 23, 2020
4.5 stars
The Haunting of Beatrix Greene by Rachel Hawkins, Ash Parkins, Vicky Alvear Shecter is a Historical Fiction Horror novel.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Serial Box, and of course the authors, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Beatrix Greene is a spiritual medium, who doesn't actually believe in ghosts. She has, however, become a quiet success in Victorian England, and has a steady stream of customers.
When James Walker offers her a substantial sum of money to perform a séance at the supposedly haunted Ashbury Manor, Beatrix can' resist. Even though James is a scientist who is known for discrediting frauds like herself, the money is too good to pass up.
But not everything is as it seems. James has not told her everything, and the mansion contains more than anyone bargained for. But Beatrix, too, is more than she seems, and more than she knew.
My Opinions:
First...I loved it. It was a great haunted house story, that was surprisingly, really good horror. Blood and gore and evil, plus a good plot. What more could a horror fan want?
The writing was good, and the book moved along at a fast pace. It is more of a novella than a full novel, but it was definitely a fast read. For such a short book, the characters had enough depth that you could like even the secondary characters (well, maybe not Stanhope).
What I didn't like was the method the book is being delivered to readers. The chapters were written alternately by the three authors, and it felt seamless. That was fine. What I didn't understand, was that each chapter was headed with "Season 1, Episode 1...Episode 2....." There were 9 episodes (instead of chapters). It was a short read, but it was the complete book. When I looked up the publisher Serial Box, it appears they will release an Episode each week, until the book is finished. I remember Stephen King releasing one of his books in this method -- I was not impressed with that, nor am I impressed with this. That is the only reason for my missing .5 star.
However, if you can get your hands on the complete book, it is a really fun read. Well, I say fun, but remember, it's horror....
For a more complete review of this book and others (including author information and quotations), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
October 16, 2020
Beatrix Greene runs her own small business as a spiritual medium in Victorian London. Except: she doesn't really talk to spirits. She thinks of herself as a strong empath who is able to easily discern what her clients need to hear. Her clients love her subtle approach without all the slamming doors and blinking lamps.
James Walker, a scientist starts debunking false mediums in London. Curious, Beatrix attends one of his lectures and ends up chatting with James afterward. James offers to hire her to accompany him to a house that is supposed to be haunted so that she can help him communicate with the ghosts. Beatrix signs on figuring she can just make something up as usual and get some easy money.
Beatrix, James and a few other supernatural experts descend on Ashbury Manor and hold a seance. The seance awakens Beatrix's true ability to commune with the spirits. She is possessed by the ghost of James' mother. This exposes that James has some secrets of his own. And so begins their dark stay at this haunted house.
I enjoyed this one. I found it to be a satisfyingly spooky haunted house story. I could picture the dark foreboding manor and its occupants. It reminded me in several ways of the Haunting of Hill House (the TV series more so than the book) which I am a big fan of (both the book & the TV series!). It was fun gothic-style creepiness. I am curious to see if there will be a follow-up book since this was touted as "season 1". If so, it is definitely something I would check out.
What to listen to while reading...
Beatrix by Cocteau Twins
Haunting by Halsey
Dream State by Son Lux
Fuel to the Fire (David Lynch Remix) by Agnes Obel
Sad Day by FKA twigs
Darkest Hour by Sevdaliza
Run Me Through by Perfume Genius
Thank you to the publisher for the advanced review copy!
James Walker, a scientist starts debunking false mediums in London. Curious, Beatrix attends one of his lectures and ends up chatting with James afterward. James offers to hire her to accompany him to a house that is supposed to be haunted so that she can help him communicate with the ghosts. Beatrix signs on figuring she can just make something up as usual and get some easy money.
Beatrix, James and a few other supernatural experts descend on Ashbury Manor and hold a seance. The seance awakens Beatrix's true ability to commune with the spirits. She is possessed by the ghost of James' mother. This exposes that James has some secrets of his own. And so begins their dark stay at this haunted house.
I enjoyed this one. I found it to be a satisfyingly spooky haunted house story. I could picture the dark foreboding manor and its occupants. It reminded me in several ways of the Haunting of Hill House (the TV series more so than the book) which I am a big fan of (both the book & the TV series!). It was fun gothic-style creepiness. I am curious to see if there will be a follow-up book since this was touted as "season 1". If so, it is definitely something I would check out.
What to listen to while reading...
Beatrix by Cocteau Twins
Haunting by Halsey
Dream State by Son Lux
Fuel to the Fire (David Lynch Remix) by Agnes Obel
Sad Day by FKA twigs
Darkest Hour by Sevdaliza
Run Me Through by Perfume Genius
Thank you to the publisher for the advanced review copy!
November 14, 2020
The Haunting of Beatrix Greene Episode 1.
Taking place in Victorian England this gothic tale is of a savvy medium who is challenged by a scientist. She must prove she's not a fraud by going to Ashbury Manor and proving or disproving spirits exist. What happens next, the consequences are unexpected as it unleashes an evil force that holds you captive as you read.
More episodes will follow that I will check out.
Published Pub Date 28 Oct 2020 by Serial Box
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Taking place in Victorian England this gothic tale is of a savvy medium who is challenged by a scientist. She must prove she's not a fraud by going to Ashbury Manor and proving or disproving spirits exist. What happens next, the consequences are unexpected as it unleashes an evil force that holds you captive as you read.
More episodes will follow that I will check out.
Published Pub Date 28 Oct 2020 by Serial Box
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 15, 2020
The story cut off abruptly....I am quite intrigued and will read further books.
November 1, 2020
Rarely am I frightened while reading a book but, folks, The Haunting of Beatrix Greene scared the heebie-jeebies out of me!!!
I was fortunate enough to download Beatrix Greene for my Prime First Reads for October. I wish everyone could have read this book before or FOR Halloween because it is the perfect scary ghost story to chill your bones!
The story starts out so innocently and cozy: Beatrix Greene makes her living in Victorian England as a medium, a person who can speak to the dead. She's actually very good at her profession. She is, however, a fraud. When James Walker, a notorious illusionist who makes a point of proving spritualists as con artists, seeks Beatrix out to hold a seance at a house known to be haunted, Beatrix agrees. After all, it will be some quick money and she is certain there are no ghosts. She should know, right? WRONG. Once inside Beatrix soon discovers that, in fact, she does have the power to speak to the dead and they are warning her to get out! I won't spoil the rest of the story for you but let me tell you - I had to check with others in my house to makes ure I wasn't alone!! (SHIVERS) I would not recommend reading this late at night or alone, absolutely not alone!!
I LOVED this book! I LOVED discovering that I still could be frightened by ghosts. I thought I had become too cynical. What a great movie this one would make. If you haven't read it - go, GO... you'll be frightfully glad you did!!
I was fortunate enough to download Beatrix Greene for my Prime First Reads for October. I wish everyone could have read this book before or FOR Halloween because it is the perfect scary ghost story to chill your bones!
The story starts out so innocently and cozy: Beatrix Greene makes her living in Victorian England as a medium, a person who can speak to the dead. She's actually very good at her profession. She is, however, a fraud. When James Walker, a notorious illusionist who makes a point of proving spritualists as con artists, seeks Beatrix out to hold a seance at a house known to be haunted, Beatrix agrees. After all, it will be some quick money and she is certain there are no ghosts. She should know, right? WRONG. Once inside Beatrix soon discovers that, in fact, she does have the power to speak to the dead and they are warning her to get out! I won't spoil the rest of the story for you but let me tell you - I had to check with others in my house to makes ure I wasn't alone!! (SHIVERS) I would not recommend reading this late at night or alone, absolutely not alone!!
I LOVED this book! I LOVED discovering that I still could be frightened by ghosts. I thought I had become too cynical. What a great movie this one would make. If you haven't read it - go, GO... you'll be frightfully glad you did!!
October 27, 2020
Beatrix poses as a medium, but she is not, she is just playing with people's feelings for money. When James is asking her to come to the infamously haunted Ashbury Manor she will find dark secrets that are buried deep into the house.
It is a great ghost/romance story, I enjoyed the characters but did not like the ending much, I was thinking at something else.
Thank you Netgalley for this opportunity.
It is a great ghost/romance story, I enjoyed the characters but did not like the ending much, I was thinking at something else.
Thank you Netgalley for this opportunity.
November 9, 2020
This book was great! Beatrix Greene is a spiritual medium who practiced "fake it 'til you make it", defrauding her clientele of hard earned funds while pretending to communicate with the spirits of their deceased loved ones.
Along comes James Walker, an American determined to expose her as a fraud. James hires her - at an exorbitant fee - to go to Ashbury Manor, a notorious haunted house. He wants to prove that she is a fraud. She wants to trick him, as she has done to countless others, and take the money.
But neither the living nor the dead are as they seem, and at Ashbury Manor it all comes to a head.
I enjoyed the way the story was presented as "Season 1, episodes 1-9" and I would love to see it as a real TV series. The plot moved quickly - maybe a tiny bit too quickly, as I would have liked a bit more lingering creepiness before the serious action. The characters were vivid and fun. The payoff was excellent. No bait & switch here. Mid-way though the book something happens that makes me question was genre I was reading, but it ends up fitting nicely into the overall story.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who love gothic horror and mysteries from Victorian England. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Serial Box, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Along comes James Walker, an American determined to expose her as a fraud. James hires her - at an exorbitant fee - to go to Ashbury Manor, a notorious haunted house. He wants to prove that she is a fraud. She wants to trick him, as she has done to countless others, and take the money.
But neither the living nor the dead are as they seem, and at Ashbury Manor it all comes to a head.
I enjoyed the way the story was presented as "Season 1, episodes 1-9" and I would love to see it as a real TV series. The plot moved quickly - maybe a tiny bit too quickly, as I would have liked a bit more lingering creepiness before the serious action. The characters were vivid and fun. The payoff was excellent. No bait & switch here. Mid-way though the book something happens that makes me question was genre I was reading, but it ends up fitting nicely into the overall story.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who love gothic horror and mysteries from Victorian England. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Serial Box, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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