I wish there was an option for more than 5 stars to give this book!!!!!!!!!!! In my opinion, this book is 20+ stars. This book is one of the best books I have read this year. I can not wait, until the next book in this series is released to find out what happens next to our darling Hecate Cavendish.

I was thrilled to be approved to ARC read this book because if you're ever read a book by this author you know she is a very seasoned author.

While there were many things I really liked about this book there were also as many as I didn't like.

I loved the MFC Hecate. She was a go getter, do things her way, well rounded character. Edward her father was a staunch supporter of his daughter even if that wasn't the norm during Victorian times and the overall premise of the book was great.

My biggest issues were the pacing of the book and the ending. The pacing was so uneven in that it took a very long time to get into the nitty gritty and then once it got there it would slow down again once you really got into the storyline. This book literally put me to sleep on several occasions. It just did not hold my attention as so many of this authors other books have done. The ending was really no ending at all. I know there will be more books but basically nothing was answered. Not even the most basic questions you might have.

So, I liked aspects of this book but as a whole it could have been greatly shortened and it would not have affected the story.

**Received ARC through NetGalley. Voluntarily reviewed**

Hecate is the daughter of an archaeologist. He gets her a job as a librarian’s assistant at Hereford cathedral. But this is no ordinary collection of books. The cathedral houses an ancient chained library. It has been guarded for centuries. The most prized artifact, however, is the medieval world map which hangs next to Hecate’s desk. This map, and all that it contains, changes her world.

I enjoyed Hecate. She definitely has her hands full with all the spirits and demons surrounding her. But, this story has some pacing issues. And it sure did bog down in the middle. I also found it very descriptive in places that just didn’t need it. And as I always say, read it for yourself to decide. I am in the minority on this one.

I do enjoy a ghost story. This is the reason for the 3 star rating and not a 2. There are some great ghosts in this tale with some pretty good history surrounding them.

The narrator, Marisa Calin, did a pretty good job. But, I believe this story is the problem and not the narrator.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

Thank you to St. Martins Press for the advanced reader copy and to Macmillan Audio for the complimentary audiobook. These opinions are my own.

I adore Paula Brackston's witchy series and have been eager for this latest release. Hecate is hired as the new assistant librarian at Hereford Cathedral. And she very quickly learns that she has a unique ability to see and talk to ghosts.

Although set in 1881, Hecate felt quite the modern woman with her bicycle and job. I loved her eagerness to work at the library and her thoughts about whether romance would have a place in her life if it meant giving up a career. I was also so impressed with her relationship with her father and how supportive he was. And her brother was another fascinating character.

The magical world was so unique, and I look forward to learning more about how magic works in future parts of the series. But for this book, I found the ending a bit abrupt. I wanted more completion to the story, but I'll have to come back for part two.

3,5 rounded up

Hecate Cavendish just became the cathedral's Assistant Librarian where she learns she can see ghosts. She also learns that there are malevolent souls out there that are seeking her out to destroy her before she can destroy them.

I like Hecate, her curiosity, and the magic that surrounds her. She is determined and fearless which makes her a great protagonist. As she explores the mystery before her, I loved the found family aspects of the storyline and I am looking forward to seeing how this series continues.

Until about 70% in, I thought this was a standalone novel. Knowing now that it's the first in a series (or at least a duology), I am trying to look at it more objectively, but it still felt much longer than it's 360 pages. Usually I feel like I can rate a book within a series but this one leaves a lot of questions and things to be resolved making it hard to look at it on it's own.

As with any series, I have a lot of questions at the end of the book but I look forward to seeing how Hecate tackles the challenges before her.

I do think there are a lot of characters here, but I'm hoping they're more developed in book 2/going forward with more time to write about each one. However, I did enjoy the story and liked the spirit angle.

I have enjoyed Paula Brackston’s Little Shop of Found Things series, so was delighted to see a new series from her.

The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish is an intriguing book and.I look forward to more in the series. Hecate, named by her archeologist father for the goddess of magic and witchcraft is not your typical Victorian miss. She does not want to go to balls and soirees, she does not want a husband, she wants to be a scholar, to the delight of her father and the dismay of her mother. With the help of her father, Hecate gets a job as an assistant librarian at Hereford Cathedral. Hecate is thrilled to be near all the medieval manuscripts but especially a very special map, the Mappa Mundi, a map that does not show geography, instead it shows creatures and stories from myth and legends. While working at the library Hecate discovers that the map and it’s creatures are not myths and legends after all. She wakes a great evil that she must fight with the assistance of her loved ones and the ghosts that haunt the cathedral. The battle for good vs evil is never a straightforward one and there is tragedy and regret. The legends and myths are well depicted and interesting. I look forward to more books in this series as Hecate is a resilient heroine,

Thanks to Netgalley, St. Martin’s Press and the author for the opportunity to read and review this Arc

I suppose this was a case of expectations not aligning with reality. I expected more cozy and less gothic, but it is what it is. I enjoyed the character of Hecate (thank you for helping with the pronunciation early in the book). Hecate is the brilliant daughter of an archeologist and loves the study of books, maps, and all things precious. For this time in history, for her to have landed a job as an assistant librarian is monumental. She does encounter those who don't believe a young lady should be doing such things, but her drive moves her along. I liked her interactions with the other characters she meets and the idea of the book. However, the pacing is off--it does not flow well, hindering the story. Speeding to slogging through was discombobulating. Then, the ending of this book. All I can say is yuck. I was so let down. It left you there completely unsatisfied. You usually either get a resolution or a cliffhanger, something to drive you to want to read the next book in the series. The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish does not do that, so I if it is worth it to continue.

Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, for the eArc; these opinions are mine.

After discovering her Found Things series and falling in love with this author's writing, I've been eagerly anticipating her new series. I thought this book was an excellent setup for a great series. Set in the 1800s the heroine, Hecate, takes a position as librarian in Hereford Cathedral and discovers that she can hear the ghosts that reside there, some friendly some not. And though the ending left me with questions, I felt it was a great start to her new series. I'm so excited for the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Paula Brackston is so good at writing witches! This is the start of a new witchy series starring a young eccentric lady who can speak to the dead. It is 1881 and Hecate Cavendish is the independent-minded, bright daughter of an archaeologist. She speeds through Hereford on her bicycle, thrilled to be starting her new job as an assistant librarian at the local cathedral. There, she's enthralled not only by the collection of old, obscure books, but by the medieval map over her desk--and in it, the figures seem to move, for her eyes alone. Within the first day, she discovers that she can see and converse with the ghosts that roam the cathedral. But when evil entities burst forth from the crypt beneath the cathedral, darkness soon stalks the streets of Hereford. Hecate becomes embroiled in a battle for her friends and family and their very souls.

*Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this e-arc.*

THE HAUNTING OF HECATE CAVENDISH by Paula Brockton pits the indomitable, intelligent, curious Hecate Cavenish squarely in the role she yearns to fulfill at assistant librarian at Hereford Cathdral with its history, majesty, and rare works. Little does she know that the puzzling events that occur from her first day on the job will grow larger, more powerful, and frequent with delights and horrors that threaten her life, sanity, and everyone she cares about. I very much enjoyed spending time with Hecate, probing mysteries and threads of clues that draw her further into what is impossible, magical, and transformational. I confess that I had to read the book with the lights on bright and the blankets pulled up tight around my neck -- the story is that engrossing, the events so well-drawn, and the characters so believable. A truly enjoyable read! I received a copy of this book and these opinions are my own, unbiased thoughts.

Excerpt Review:

Paula Brackston's The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish is a captivating gothic tale set in 1881 England, where the spirited Hecate Cavendish begins her role as Assistant Librarian at Hereford Cathedral's ancient chained library. The cathedral, with its atmospheric presence and centuries-old secrets, becomes a character in itself, drawing readers into a world of mystery and supernatural intrigue. While Hecate encounters both allies and adversaries among the spectral inhabitants, the novel's strength lies in its richly detailed setting and the unique premise of the mystical medieval world map. Though occasionally slowed by overly descriptive passages and underdeveloped secondary characters, the story remains an engaging read for fans of historical fiction with a supernatural twist.

Full Review:

Paula Brackston's The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish transports readers to 1881 England, where the city of Hereford and its majestic cathedral set the stage for a gothic tale brimming with mystery, intrigue, and the supernatural. Hecate Cavendish, the spirited protagonist, embarks on a new chapter of her life as an Assistant Librarian in the cathedral’s ancient chained library, only to discover that this is no ordinary collection of books.

The story begins with Hecate racing through the cobbled streets of Hereford on her bicycle, her skirts hitched daringly high—a bold and evocative image that immediately sets the tone for her character. Upon her arrival at the cathedral, she is drawn to the medieval world map hanging next to her desk, an artifact whose significance will unravel as the narrative progresses.

Brackston excels in creating a richly atmospheric setting. The cathedral, with its towering presence and centuries-old secrets, serves as a perfect backdrop for the haunting elements of the story. The library itself is a character, its worn shelves and ancient tomes harboring both wisdom and mystery. The detailed descriptions of the library and the map evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, drawing readers deeper into the world Brackston has crafted.

As Hecate delves into her new role, she encounters various lost souls within the cathedral. Some become her allies, seeking her help to find peace, while others pose a significant threat to her and those she loves. The interactions with these spectral entities are both poignant and suspenseful, adding depth to Hecate's character as she navigates her newfound responsibilities and the dangers that come with them.

However, the novel does have its drawbacks. While the premise is captivating and the setting atmospheric, the pacing can be uneven at times. Certain sections feel overly descriptive, slowing down the narrative and detracting from the overall suspense. Additionally, some secondary characters lack development, making their roles in Hecate's journey less impactful.

Despite these minor flaws, The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish remains an engaging read. Brackston’s ability to blend historical fiction with supernatural elements creates a unique and compelling story. The novel’s strengths lie in its evocative setting, the intriguing concept of the chained library, and the character of Hecate herself—a determined and brave young woman facing both mortal and ethereal challenges.

For fans of gothic fiction and historical mysteries with a supernatural twist, The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish offers a satisfying escape into a world where the past and present intertwine, and where bravery and curiosity are key to unlocking long-hidden secrets.

I was excited to receive a widget inviting me to be an early reader for The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish. Having read some of Paula Brackston’s books before, I knew that they had a magical essence about them and that’s why I find them so appealing. And this story which I believe is the start to a new series was not only special with its paranormal activity but there was a bit of mystery to it as well. It was fun to read as Hecate, the main character, is a strong, brave and intelligent young woman. With the help of her father who she has a very close and special bond with, she obtains the job of library assistant at the Hereford Cathedral. It’s there at the cathedral that she almost immediately realizes that she has a special gift that permits her to see and speak with dead people! Something terrible happens that causes danger to the village people and it’s left to Hecate to make things right. This was a great read and I look forward to reading more about these characters and to see if Hecate ever finds what or who will bring her true happiness and contentment. I’d like to thank Trade Marketing and St. Martin’s Press for the invite to read an early copy and NetGalley for the arc. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading a good mystery with a touch of paranormal added for fun. I’m giving this book a 4 star rating and am anticipating the chance to read more by this author very soon!

THE HAUNTING OF HECATE CAVENDISH is the first book in a new series by Paula Brackston. I have greatly enjoyed this author’s previous series and this one is off to a good start. This book is set in 1881 in England. Hecate Cavendish is a feisty and eccentric young woman who doesn’t necessarily want to follow the norms expected of her. Her mother only wants her to find a suitable marriage partner, but her father understands Hecate better and helps her find a job as assistant librarian at the famed Hereford Cathedral. But Hecate will quickly discover that there is more to the library than a collection of books. She will also discover that she has the special ability to converse with ghosts of people from the past who are trapped within the cathedral walls. Most of these ghosts are kind and helpful, but evil also lurks nearby and soon, Hecate’s life and the lives of those she loves, may be in danger. Full of magic, intrigue, history and adventure, this intricately plotted story kept me on the edge of my seat. I especially enjoyed the portrayal of the relationship between Hecate and her father. The ending comes rather abruptly, leading the way to the next book in the series, which I look forward to reading. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read and review an early copy.

I requested an ARC of The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish by Paula Brackston because it’s set in an old library, the library is inside a gothic cathedral, and there are ghosts. Lots of ghosts. And best of all it’s during the Victorian period!

Paula Brackston is an author I’d not read before and she really made this story come alive, I could practically feel the ancient drafty air in the library and gothic cathedral she created. The characters were all so unique and well written. It’s the first book in a series, so the fascinating world and characters she created will continue on in future books.

In the story, Hecate Cavendish had just been hired as a librarian assistant. Excited by her new position, Hecate’s intense curiosity has her exploring the building as much as she’s able to get away with. She discovers a fascinating medieval map that shows the locations of fantastical creatures. There are endless books and manuscripts hundreds of years old. There is a mysterious cabinet she is told to STAY AWAY from. And then, she discovers a curious talent: she can see and speak with ghosts. But what are they doing there in the cathedral?

This was a nice mix of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance and I look forward to seeing where the rest of the series goes. Best of all, the book releases tomorrow so be sure to check it out for yourself!

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish by Paula Brackston is a truly amazing novel from the first page to the last.
The characters were described with such detail you could almost see them.
They are superb - so realistic. Brackston is so great at description!
Her phenomenal writing style draws the reader in and keeps them there throughout the story. You don't just read this novel—you are living in it.

Thank You NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

Thank you so much @stmartinspress for the gifted copy for an honest review

The Haunting of Hecate Cavendish is an historical, fantastic, mystery book.

Hecate can communicate and see ghosts. She works in the library in the cathedral. It's there that she learns about her abilities. While she learns to navigate with her power, the crypt where she works was desecrated and murders keep happening in the city.

At the end of the book, it was almost creepy. The Exorcist scene 🫥 .

I absolutely adored her.
She's strong, fierce, loyal and she's true to herself. Her love for books and everything antique made her a character that everyone will love. She's sharp and brilliant.

Her relationship with her father was beautiful and so well-written.

If you love :

✨ Academia;
✨ Historical fantasy;
✨ Mysteries ;
✨ Magic and ghosts ;
✨ Scandal and murder mystery;
✨ 1880s era.

Hecate Cavendish can interact with spirits. She starts working at a library where many old texts and books are held, but strange things begin happening to her inside it's walls. There is also something else prowling around and Hecate might be the only one that can figure it out,

This book is really slow. I wanted to enjoy it but was put off by pages dedicated to her hemming her dress and then jumping multiple days into the future without any warning. It felt very disjointed and full of a lot of unimportant information that did not push the narrative forward. I think that someone who likes a fast paced thriller (myself) would find it very hard to get into the storyline,.

This one is for Brackston's fans and those who like historical fiction about intrepid young women who, in this case find they have a connection with the spirit world. It's 1881 and Hecate's father endorses her desire to work and explore life more before she marries (if she marries) so he helps her get a job at the library at the cathedral. And then she discovers she can speak with the spirits that haunt it. Know that Brackston sometimes wades a little deep into a tangle but Hecate is a good character and the plot moves along briskly. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This reads as if it's the first in a series so I'm now looking forward to the next one.

In general, I really enjoyed this book. I like Hecate's sassy, independent personality, especially being a Victorian Miss. I love her relationships with her Father and her best friend, great character development there. I love how the author researched the history and the settings of her book. You felt immersed in the story. I found myself googling Hereford Cathedral's history - absolutely fascinating!

Now on to the cons. It was a slow read and tended to drag on. I was not satisfied with the abrupt ending and felt that there was no true resolution. I understand that this is going to be a series, however something should have been solved. However, I am glad that the author has a new series and I do look forward to Hecate Cavendish's next adventure.