The Mysteries of Pendowar Hall

About the Book: 

She vowed to solve a murder.
Now she’s in danger of losing her heart … and her very life.

Diana Taylor, a bright and spirited governess who has sworn off love, is sent to Pendowar Hall in Cornwall to honor a pledge. She vows to teach her godmother’s niece and to find out who was behind the suspicious death of the former baronet. But her new charge is also a mystery, as is the man who inherited the ancient coastal estate—the charismatic but brooding Royal Navy Captain William Fallbrook, who is home on leave to recover from an injury.

As Diana investigates, her feelings for the enigmatic Captain Fallbrook blossom, and her guard goes up. Pendowar Hall is brimming with secrets as well as a frightening legend about a Mermaid’s Curse. What is behind the mysterious footsteps in the night? Is there more to the story of the tragic deaths of the former baronet’s wife and son? What secrets is Captain Fallbrook hiding? Can she trust the man who has stolen her heart?

He looks to be entranced by Diana, even though her determination to dig up the past seems to get on his last nerve. Soon, Diana’s bold quest to unmask his uncle’s killer leads her into terrifying danger, for someone is determined to end her life before she can discover the truth.

My Review

Diana Taylor is the perfect person to investigate on behalf of her godmother, Mrs. Phillps, the circumstances of her brother’s death. Courageous in the face of danger and eager to get the answers needed to get justice, Diana is just the young lady to investigate what happened at Pendowar Hall. She also was such a caring young lady who brought hope and help to her student, Emma.

I love the Gothic atmosphere of this story with dark stormy nights, the brooding and pensive Captain William Fallbrook, and mysterious footsteps late at night. It has several twists and clues to keep you intrigued throughout the story. If you enjoy a romance story that has the elements of suspense and foreboding castles, this is the book for you.

Things to love:
governess
Jane Eyre feeling
mermaid legends
a curse
rugged setting
Sisterhood of Smoke and Fire
dyslexic character
forgiveness

Favorite Quotes:

“Guilt and regret are like cancer, Captain. They can eat one away from the inside out if we let them.”

“Nothing is impossible, Miss Taylor. The word itself says, “I’m possible.”

“Forgive them, “ he said again. “Not for their sakes, but for your own. For your peace of mind. It’s the only way forward.”

I highly recommend this first book in the Audacious Sisterhood of Smoke and Fire series. I can’t wait to read more of the stories of these ladies. I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley and AustenProse. All opinions are my own with no obligation to write a positive review.