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The Ghost of Spring: A Haunting Tale of Murder

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She agreed to a marriage of safety. A vindictive ghost would change everything. 1817 England In a time when women had little choice in their futures, young Mary Fletcher is faced with the worst. Her father is on his deathbed while her brother sells her to the highest bidder and there is nothing she can do about it. Her unlikely savior comes in the form of her elderly but kind neighbor, the Duke of Fenwick, who marries her out from under her brother’s nose. For the first time in her life, Mary is happy and cared for. Until she comes home from the opera and finds the duke murdered. Now everything in her world has changed again. While trying to navigate her new status as a widow, strange things begin happening as she discovers more and more of the old duke’s history. Suddenly, she is surrounded by mysteriously shredded clothing, ghostly moving furniture, animated portraits, and black-eyed children. Mary is haunted, and the ghost won’t give up until she finds out who killed her husband.

274 pages, Paperback

Published October 23, 2021

27 people are currently reading
87 people want to read

About the author

Mel Stone

14 books60 followers
Mel wrote, illustrated, and published her first book at the age of five. It was not a huge success, but undaunted she plunged herself into reading every book she could get her hands on. She found a love for ghost stories, Gothic tales, suspense-driven works of fiction, and of course a little romance never hurt. Now she combines all three of her favorite genres and writes up tales that feel familiar until you find out things are not what they seem. She lives in the Wasatch Mountains and enjoys time with her children, her husband, and her 100-pound lab/mastiff/dane, Boudica, who thinks she's a lap dog. She also has a serious addiction to yarn, fiber arts, and crochet hooks.

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5 stars
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43 (37%)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for lady_davidson.
45 reviews44 followers
October 13, 2022
This book was FUCKING stellar. Henry and The Duke, Luke, had me cackling. Their relationship was stellar and it just made my heart warm. Mary is sweet and sensible and just awesome. I feel bad for her cause she has to dress in black for like a YEAR. But hey, what can ya do?

I didn’t want to put it down at all. I found myself reaching for it when I needed to do other things. Mel’s books NEED to be talked about more!
Profile Image for Elodie’s Reading Corner.
2,554 reviews151 followers
November 7, 2021
💀 The Ghost of Spring 💀
A Haunting Tale of Murder
✒️ Mel Stone
https://m.facebook.com/authormelstone/
Release Date 10/22/2021
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09K61FZHQ/...

𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯

She agreed to a marriage of safety. A vindictive ghost will change everything.

To escape from her brother trying to sell her to the highest bidder, Mary agrees to a quick marriage to the much older but kind Duke of Fenwick. After a night at the opera, she comes home to find the Duke murdered and a vengeful ghost demanding answers. With the help of her friend Henry, Mary must find the truth to appease the ghost while more and more of the old Duke's secrets destroy her future.

𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

Will the ghost set things to rights or is it the continuation of Mary’s nightmarish life …

Since I discovered the author’s debut novel a little over a year ago, this one is the third book published I have read, and I have loved everyone of them. Each has its unique gothic, paranormal vibe, with everything to make you shiver in the good sense of the term.
So get cosy, snuggle in the couch and be transported in a time long past.
While this is a romance, outside the two main characters, there is of course the ghost, but there is a forth protagonist is this tale, Luke, the late Duke, he is the one who set everything in motion.
Henry is a knight, doing the Duke’s bidding but also a rescuer in his own right. So even if he has been in love with Mary for years, he has no real power like the Duke to save her, so he accepts her safety can only come from marriage to a kind and caring peer. One no one can outsmart, as cunning and prepared Luke is.
Mary has lived many years under the thumb of others, rejected by her mother, beaten by her brother, and exploited by her father. So marriage with Luke is a respite from her wretched life, when she was always scraping for something to make ends meet.
Luke is a man who has lived a contented life and abhors abuse of all sorts. So when he learns his late lover’s granddaughter is in danger, he jumps in to rescue her. Then from there, he sets a different course on the move with only the well-being of those he cares into view.
Then there is the ghost, the remain of a being from the past set of a revenge path and determined to see it through its end.

So while it is no ballad into the wood, it is a tale with grim aspects but also fun, humorous moments and despite the darkness of the story, it is love and concern which are the main purpose behind some of the dark deeds.
So do not deny yourself if you like a good gothic romance story.
5 stars

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses

I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

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2 reviews
March 12, 2022
This is a story about a young girl Mary who had lived of life of dejection all through her life and now her brother wants to sell her. Henry who is bidding the highest value from the Duke side has loved Mary over the years. But he decided to let go of his lady love because he wanted Mary’s safety. Mary decided to Marry Duke because she had no choice and she knew the fact that Duke had everything and he can fulfil her every need.

It is said, that things which looks simple from outside may not be as what they seems to be
..and so Mary's life again turned into a nightmare when after a night at the Opera, Mary discovered that the Duke has been murdered and one ghost is demanding answers from her. This incident has completely shaken Mary yet she decided to give answers to the ghost with the help of her friends Henry. But as she sets her foot forward the deep dark secrets about the Duke’s past creates a hinderance in Mary’ s path and blocks her path.


This was a surprising read for me!! I do not read gothic genre novel nor do I typically like it, therefore I have avoided reading books in verse for years. I decided to pick up from my library just because it was so short, but I’m so pleased I gave it a chance. This is a story absolutely everyone should experience.

The writing is INCREDIBLE. If you are yearning for a novel with a beautiful writing This novel the ghost of spring, A haunting Take of Murder absolutely needs to be on your list.

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Profile Image for Sarah (missrelena).
179 reviews4 followers
November 19, 2021
Horrible relations, vile murder, vengeful ghosts, and a plot that thickens better than my gravy. No, this is not Shakespeare's Hamlet, it's a fresh new twist on the marriage of convenience trope with a full serving of who-dun-it liberally seasoned with romance and suspense. Mix well and serve up as "The Ghost of Spring" by Mel Stone.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were dynamic and believable, the settings were moody and set the stage well, and the way the characters built and grew with (or in spite of) each other was wonderfully written. I initially thought Duke Fenwick would turn out to be the lecherous old man taking advantage of the leading lady's plight. Instead, he is sweet schemer with delightful plans for Mary and what he thinks will make her happy. Fortunately, Mary is far from a martyr or damsel in destress. She refuses to be dominated by the machinations of her dastardly brother - a man who could give Cinderella's step-mother tips on being horrendous. She is bright, determined, and relatable.

The mystery is well paced throughout the story and the romance is a well-built slow-burn, but the author manages to balance both sides of the plot adroitly. I never felt like the mystery was being rushed to make room for the romance or vice versa. I felt the time period was well represented as well.

Recommended for fans of Sarah M. Eden, Laurie King, and Nancy Campbell Allen

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
183 reviews3 followers
November 20, 2021
This book could have just as easily been titled the Haunting of Mary Polk.

Mary's father lay dying while her brother is downstairs celebrating his death and auctioning Mary off to his friends. The very much older Duke of Fenwick steps in to rescue her. A benevolent grandfather type, he takes Mary under his wing and treat her with a kindness that she hasn't known with her own family. This ends the night that Mary comes home and finds the Duke dead and a furious ghost who wants answers. What ensues is an engaging, entertaining and suspenseful, gothic murder mystery/romance/ghost story.

Author Mel Stone did a skillful job of creating an interesting cast of primary and secondary characters, giving each enough of a back story that you understand who they are, how they think and feel, and what their motivations are for how they behave. Their stories don't feel overly dramatic or contrived, making the drama of the story plot forward. At no time do you ever get so bogged down by a characters over the top behavior that you forget the real intent of the story. The most over the top character is the ghost and I think you will agree that she is entitled to her fury.

If you are looking for am excuse to put on your sleuthing cap, The Ghost of Spring is an easy, comfortable read. If you are like me, you will figure out who done it fairly early, but you will certainly enjoy getting to the end to verify whether you are right.
Profile Image for Gill M.
371 reviews27 followers
November 9, 2021
The book starts on the night that 19 year old Mary Fletcher’s father is dying.
While the impecunious Baron Fairley’s life draws to a close, his heir Jonathan is downstairs carousing with his friends and auctioning off his sister’s virtue.
Mary’s maid runs to the house of the elderly Duke of Fenwick, begging for help.

Luke, Duke of Fenwick may be old but he is definitely not lacking spirit. He races to assist. Using a special license, he offers marriage, is accepted, consent is given by the last words of the Baron and the Vicar attending the deathwatch performs the ceremony.
As Mary’s husband he has the right to protect her and so he does. In her new home she finds security and grandfatherly affection.
Also in residence is Henry, the steward and her childhood friend. He is also in love with Mary!
When Luke is murdered, he is determined to have the last word. There are major revelations in his will.

Mary, now the dowager Duchess find herself haunted by a determined ghost, who demands that she finds the Duke’s murderer.
The characters are engaging. Luke is such a lovely man, though very naughty!

Henry is steadfast and kind.

Jonathan and dowager Baroness Naomi are utterly appalling.

Very good book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Mc Chanster.
532 reviews
November 17, 2021
Okay, so this was a fun book.

When I first read the blurb for this, I somehow thought Duke Fenwick was the villain, but oh, how wrong I was. By the second chapter, I absolutely adored the sweet old man and his scheming ways. I thought Mary was a great main and I actually loved their relationship. The way he doted on her like a kindly grandfather warmed my heart and I was really happy to see how her character progressed and grew throughout the book. I also quite enjoyed Henry as a main and how at heart, he is a true gentleman, despite being a little rough around the edges.

I thought this was a great read. It had a little bit of everything – mystery, romance, murder, a step into the paranormal. There was lot to this novel, but for me, I never found it was overwhelming. The author did a great job balancing out her many ideas and I was giggling and gasping through it all. I will say that there seemed to a lot happening in the last 50 pages, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. A lovely read and I will definitely be looking for more from this author.

Thank you Booksprout and Mel Stone for my copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
43 reviews
November 17, 2021
I'd say this is a two and a half. When I first started reading this book, I was confused because it was very much just a romance book with maybe two hints at something a little sinister. Then, the second half really picked up the pace and turned into more of what I'd been expecting from this book. I didn't quite believe the ending, even after having read it. It didn't really fit any of the characters and felt a bit forced. The writing is definitely that of a newer author but seems to have potential, so I'd be interested in seeing where her next books lead as she gets more experience under her belt. One thing that was really good was how this author portrayed more of the spooky scenes. They were definitely unsettling and got me worried about the characters and how it would affect them. Overall, the book was alright, getting better especially in the second half.
Profile Image for K.D. Brinegar.
Author 1 book1 follower
August 21, 2023
The Ghost of Spring is a great who-done-it mystery. We are met with Mary in this historical paranormal novel. Tragedy hits the family and she is forced to find a husband by her own brother. Unexpectedly she finds herself married to a Duke, but an older gentleman who takes care of her before she finds herself a widow. This is when the story really had me on the edge of my seat. Strange things are happening, twists and turns present themselves and Mary finds herself being charged with finding her late husband's killer.

The characters all had a story, which kept the story flowing and the historical context rang true and authentic.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Crystalclearwpg.
352 reviews8 followers
November 24, 2021
If you are looking to read a story with historical attributes, mystery, love and vengeance then this is a story for you. A young girl marries a fairly older Duke for safety from her vindictive brother to only be thrown into a world of more deceit, violence, and a haunting. Mary must over come some hard decision if she wants to live peacefully.
Mel Stone has a nack for writing stories that are well paced and not over bearing. The plot revealed itself nicely and the characters developments were clearly seen. I gave this story a 5 star rating and I was graciously given a copy by Ms. Stone herself and my review is written unbiasely.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.7k reviews361 followers
November 16, 2021
Mary and the Duke . . .

This was certainly different, unusual, and unexpected. Mary Fletcher is a very likable character who has not had an easy time of things. To get out of the clutches of her disgusting brother who was trying to sell her, she agrees to marry the older but kind Luke, Duke of Fenwick.

When she comes home to find the Duke murdered and a ghost enters, demanding she find the murderer, her adventure begins. Is she in danger? Will a hero save her?
16.5k reviews153 followers
November 18, 2021
To escape being married off to the highest bidder she marries a kind but much older man. He is soon found murdered and a ghost demands answers so her friend and her must solve they mystery. More and more of her husband secrets will come out making it even more difficult to find the truth. Will they find the truth? What is the truth? Will they aplease the ghost? See just how they all get on

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mel Stone.
Author 14 books60 followers
Read
November 1, 2021
In the words of Alfred Hitchcock, "I think everyone enjoys a good murder, as long as they aren't the victim."

If you enjoy a good murder, a vengeful ghost, and a round in the boxing ring this is the book for you.

Start reading here - https://www.amazon.com/Ghost-Spring-H...
65 reviews
February 28, 2022
Surprise

Wow what an ending. I never saw this coming. I admit I sometimes cheat by looking at the last few page if am so into a book. But I still did see this coming. I high complement. Of course I loved the book but I am so glad I found this book as I will be long time family.
18 reviews
April 19, 2022
Captivating Read

There is nothing that I disliked with this book. I enjoyed that there was deep love between the characters without sex, or at least explicit sex. Very enjoyable & was my idea of a true Gothic Historical Romance. I only wish I could find many more like it as they are hard to find in Kindle Unlimited anyway.
Profile Image for Brittany Morgan.
29 reviews
July 18, 2022
Absolutely hilarious at times mixed with romance (no spice but still very sweet with bad boy protection vibes). With some plot twists and haunting vibes, it's an excellent read! Loved having it as part of my summer reads! And since I have a physical copy, it looks very nice on the shelf as well! Love the cover!
441 reviews14 followers
November 13, 2021
This is an engrossing story, deftly crossing a number of genres, while avoiding cliche. The old duke was a delightful rogue. Thoroughly enjoyed it.I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
225 reviews4 followers
December 7, 2022
A May to December Romance

A wealthy Duke rescues and married a young woman in trouble. The marriage is one of salvation and propriety. Before the Duke can finish is plans for his wife’s happiness he is murdered. A twisty turney mystery.
Profile Image for Hannah J..
142 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2024
This book was just wonderful and as good as I hoped it would be after reading the blurb. The setting and time period are done tremendously, and the mystery and "haunting" even better. It kept me on my toes!
Profile Image for JC.
37 reviews2 followers
January 7, 2022
Another fantastic read by Mel Stone. This book had me fully fascinated from the beginning. I look forward to reading more books from this author!
Profile Image for Nikita dale.
227 reviews2 followers
September 26, 2022
This was a great little book,the characters where fantastic and the pace was great
Profile Image for Doris Mahala.
372 reviews1 follower
December 27, 2022
SPOILERS!!
Mary doesn't know it yet but her life is about to get very difficult and many lives seem to end just to see her marry the man of her dreams!
Number one problem: Jonathan is Mary's abusive brother!
Number two problem: Sarah is the lady in white who is Henry's deceased mother who frequently helps Henry in the boxing ring!
Luke is the third problem! Now you may ask what was the old duke up to!
There is heart ache, tears to be shed, chuckles to let slip through and sorrow for all who love this story.
I had a hard time putting it down to go to bed.
You love this genre then you will enjoy it!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Inas..
172 reviews
March 8, 2022
The book as an idea was really nice , a desperate measure must be taken to save the heroine from her brother gamblings and selling her to the highest bidder ,things started to move smoothly, paranormal activities was really intriguing, events and actions were strong , Heroine development was staggered in different ways, sometimes i liked her , sometimes i felt her immaturity. A murder take place while everyone is out and she seeks to discover the killer because the evil spirit that is haunting her, what I didn't like is the killer in the story was unlikely evil and spirit of the tortured soul became the most vicious soul ever .
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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