Her fate lies with one of two brothers, but whether it’s the murdered or the murderer, only she can decide.
Camilla Verne has secured the match of the season with her engagement to Valentin Steinbauer, the Duke of Anhalt. But there are disturbing rumours about her betrothed which she can’t ignore.
The delights of the Frost Fair come to London, and Camilla crosses paths with Finley Renwick, a storyteller struggling to make ends meet. They get off on the wrong foot, and Finley twists the rumours about Valentin into a story of murder and betrayal.
But Finley is no ordinary performer. He is a gifted word weaver, who has the power to spin ghost stories into life. The ghost of Valentin’s brother slips through the veil, and he has come for revenge.
When the ghost reveals his brother’s darkest secret, Camilla, once so excited about her upcoming wedding, is now determined to ruin it.
The Phantom’s Bride is a fast-paced historical fantasy that re-imagines Regency England as a world full of ghosts and magic. It is the first instalment of a YA trilogy, and is perfect for fans of Bridgerton and The Phantom of the Opera.
What did I think?
Wow! The Phantom's Bride is one of the best fantasy books I have ever read. It's an outstanding debut from H. K. Sears and a cracking first book in a trilogy - I hope she writes quickly as I am chomping at the bit to read more.
Set in winter 1814 where The Frost Fair is being held on a frozen River Thames. Although you wouldn't catch me walking on ice, it sounds completely magical and I loved the inventive and vivid depictions of the various sights and sounds a visitor to the fair would experience.
The class divide is evident when Camilla Verne, who is set to become a duchess, meets word weaver Finlay Renwick. Finlay throws Camilla's engagement into doubt when he releases a spirit during his storytelling about the duke and his brother. Camilla doesn't know what to believe as there are disturbing rumours about the duke and we all know that there's no smoke without fire.
Ooooooh this book is so good. It's scary, dangerous and riveting; some of the scenes would have had me hiding behind my virtual sofa if I could have torn my eyes from the page. I loved the characters, the Regency era and the imaginative plot that is like a supernatural Bridgerton. The writing is sublime and very accomplished for a debut novel.
Beguiling, compelling and incredibly entertaining, The Phantom's Bride is an incredible debut novel and a very exciting start to a magical trilogy. A very highly recommended read; if you don't usually read fantasy The Phantom's Bride might make you change your mind.
I received a gifted paperback to read and review for the Bookstagram Tour and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
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