The Third Wife of Faraday House

A Novel

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Pub Date Aug 20 2024 | Archive Date Oct 15 2024
William Morrow | William Morrow Paperbacks

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Description

“A deliciously chilling gothic mystery with a smart and resourceful heroine . . . What more could fans of Jane Eyre and Rebecca want?” — Carol Goodman, two-time Mary Higgins Clark Award winner

Two brides band together to unravel the secrets at the heart of a crumbling island manor in this delicious love letter to gothic fiction from the award-winning author of A Dreadful Splendor

'Til death do us part...

November 1816: Restless but naive Emeline Fitzpatrick is desperate to escape her stifling life in foggy Halifax. Her guardian is lining up repugnant suitors, but Emeline has her eyes set on a lieutenant in the British Navy. She just needs to persuade him to propose, or her one chance at happiness will be gone forever.

But when Emeline’s hopes end in scandal, she finds herself with only one suitor left: the wealthy and enigmatic Captain Graves. Having already lost two wives to tragic circumstances, the widower is seeking a new companion in his cloistered seaside manor, Faraday House. Or at least that is what Emeline has been told, because when she arrives, she is horrified to discover that the second Mrs. Graves, Georgina, is still alive—though fading fast.

Emeline is only certain of two things: something ghastly is afoot at Faraday House, and no one is going to save her. She will have to rely on her own courage, her burgeoning bond with Georgina, and the aid of a handsome reverend with a mysterious past to shed light on a ghostly truth.

“A deliciously chilling gothic mystery with a smart and resourceful heroine . . . What more could fans of Jane Eyre and Rebecca want?” — Carol Goodman, two-time Mary Higgins Clark Award winner

Two...


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ISBN 9780063209879
PRICE $18.99 (USD)
PAGES 352

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Average rating from 194 members


Featured Reviews

After Emeline is caught in a scandal, she is sent away to marry the one suitor she has left… the wealthy Captain Graves. Off she goes to Faraday House, the home where Graves (aptly named) has lost his two previous wives to their early demise.

She has a plan… all she needs to do is hold out until her real love finally claims her… hopefully it doesn’t take long. Upon her arrival, though… Emeline discovers that the second Mrs. Graves hasn’t yet died. She is sick, but she is strong and the two form a bond.

There is something bad happening at Faraday House and Emeline isn’t safe. Along with some guidance from the handsome Reverend Pellerine, Emeline will stop at nothing, especially her own safety, to uncover the truth.

This is such a whimsical, cozy read. I loved the characters, I love the haunted plot lines. This was so much fun.

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Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC of The Third Wife of Faraday House by B.R. Myers in exchange for an honest review.

I read this right after finishing King Nyx, which was strange because the gothic theme and the presumed powerless women were both main features that could have seemingly shared the same tales (in a great way!).

I thought this was a great, suspenseful read. Emeline is innocent, young, and vapid (in a kind way) - she has been told her beauty is her only attribute, and she has no skill, talents, or expertise in anything besides looking pretty. When scandal chases her from her guardians' home to a marriage as the third wife of Captain Graves, she finds that Georgina, the second wife of Captain Graves, is still alive and Emeline is meant to wait in the wings.

As Emeline builds a relationship with Georgina, mysterious and dangerous things are happening across the island. Some paranormal, some the circumstances of a single woman in the 1800s, and Emeline is desperate to keep her own sanity and to keep Georgina alive, no matter the risk.

The romance is a slow, low burn, and there are a good amount of historical background and culture that help to set the tone of the story.

The end was definitely a surprise to me on multiple levels - and I read the book in one sitting, anxious to figure out whether what is truly haunting prosper island and who will live through its reckoning.

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The Third Wife of Faraday House by B.R. Mets is an interesting book that delves into the life of Emeline who is told by her strict guardians that she is nothing more than a pretty face. While her guardians are looking at setting her up with a wealthy older gentleman, she is impatiently waiting for her love who is away in the Royal Navy to come rescue her.

Insert one scandal later and Emeline is rushed into a betrothal with the wealthy Mr. Graves, looking to make her his third wife.
Emeline is shipped off to Faraday House where things aren’t as they seem. The second Mrs. Graves is very much alive, albeit ill and not quite ready to become the latest dead wife.

She and Emeline form a bond and Emeline vows to protect her, while investigating what is happening and discovering actual true love along the way.

I really enjoyed this book and the way that Emeline found her way to herself- that she was worthy and more than just a pretty face. Her bonding with Georgina was a great storyline and I was a bit surprised, in a good way, at the true villains. It wasn’t an obvious storyline.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.

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This book was good. It kept my attention and held me until the very shocking ending. I could not predict the ending there was so many possibilities that you had to read the end to get the answers you were looking for.

I would recommend this book to anyone.

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All the wives die young in Faraday House…

This gripping, gothic, spooky thriller sends shivers down your spine, keeping you on your toes and evoking a restless feeling in your stomach. Without solving the mystery, you cannot feel completely at ease, compelling you to turn the pages faster. Everyone in the house is a suspect! No one is credible or trustworthy! Each character emits suspicious vibes as tension steadily builds until the climax begins.

The dark, pessimistic atmosphere of the house heightens the thrill, while well-balanced pacing guides you through the dark secrets of the place and its inhabitants.

The story revolves around Emeline Fitzpatrick, a young woman raised by guardians in foggy Halifax after her parents' unfortunate demise. She is in love with the handsome Lieutenant Frederick from the British navy, dreaming of sailing to Bermuda with him to escape her trapped, bitter life. However, when she finds herself in a dire situation leading to a scandal, her only choices are to join a coven or become the third wife of the wealthy and enigmatic Captain Graves. Opting for the latter, she hopes to escape the marriage without being consumed, with the assistance of her lover.

Upon arriving at Faraday House after a carriage incident involving a mysterious and charismatic Reverend Pellerine, Emeline discovers that the second wife, Georgina, of Captain Graves is still alive but suffering from an unknown illness, fading away each day. Emeline's only way to end the marriage is to help Georgina stay alive until her lover Frederick's ship arrives to rescue her. However, Emeline soon realizes that something more sinister lurks in the corridors of the house, related to its dark past. If she cannot uncover the truth, she may become another victim buried in the graves around the island. Whom can she trust? With whom can she form alliances?

Overall, this is an absolutely gripping and exciting paranormal mystery blended with a historical thriller, carrying an encouraging message. I look forward to reading more books by this author!

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with a digital reviewer copy of this unputdownable book in exchange for my honest thoughts.

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Thank you NetGalley for a free e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.

B.R. Myers' "The Third Wife of Faraday House" is a masterful blend of Gothic mystery, romance, and suspense that ensnares the reader from the very beginning. The novel, set in the hauntingly atmospheric Faraday House, is a tribute to classic Gothic fiction, woven with modern storytelling sensibilities. Myers creates a world where the lines between the living and the dead blur, and where every shadow seems to whisper secrets of the past.

The story of Emeline Fitzpatrick, a young woman desperate to escape her restrictive life in Halifax, unfolds with a sense of urgency and foreboding. Her journey from naivety to a strong, determined character is both compelling and satisfying. The twist of arriving at Faraday House to find the second Mrs. Graves still alive adds a deliciously eerie and unexpected element to the plot.

Myers excels in creating a Gothic atmosphere that is both oppressive and mesmerizing. The decaying splendor of Faraday House, with its ghostly secrets and dark history, is almost a character in itself, setting the stage for a tale of mystery and suspense. The relationship between Emeline and Georgina, the second Mrs. Graves, is one of the highlights of the novel, offering a refreshing take on female friendship and solidarity in the face of adversity.

The inclusion of the handsome reverend with a mysterious past adds an intriguing romantic subplot that blends seamlessly with the main narrative. Myers' skillful handling of the romance, mystery, and supernatural elements makes "The Third Wife of Faraday House" a well-rounded and engaging read.

The novel's pacing is perfectly tuned, balancing moments of intense suspense with character development and plot revelations. The themes of courage, self-discovery, and the fight against oppressive forces are woven throughout the narrative, making the story resonate with modern readers while staying true to the Gothic tradition.

"The Third Wife of Faraday House" is a must-read for fans of Gothic fiction and anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a supernatural twist. B.R. Myers has crafted a story that is both a homage to the genre and a unique tale in its own right, delivering a novel that is as haunting as it is captivating. This book is a testament to Myers' talent for creating atmospheric, character-driven stories that stay with you long after the last page is turned.

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"Thank you for saving me," I said.
"Bien sûr." He turned his face to me and smiled. "Of course."
"I was talking to Moses."

LOVE. Couldn't put this book down. I had another few novels that I'm also reading and I kept coming back to this one. The pacing is immaculate, the banter engaging, the imagery amazing. It's giving a gothic Bridgerton meets murder mystery and I loved it. It took some getting used to but I think it showed character growth from the FMC; how she was very naive and vapid in the beginning, to where Emeline was at the end of the novel. The side characters were so well developed and I felt like each could stand on their own. There were just a few grammatical errors, like in chapter 13 before "He let out a tired sigh" there shouldn't be a quotation mark. Other than that, keep as is. This is one of the novels where I want to have a physical copy and display it on my bookshelf.

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The Edgar-award winning author B.R. Myers brings us The Third Wife of Faraday House, which is both a murder mystery and ghost story combined. This novel is published by Harper Collins and is planned to be released in August of 2024.

It is the early eighteen-hundreds when Emeline, a naive young woman, finds herself embroiled in scandal and is shipped off to Faraday House. She is to become the third bride of its owner, Captain Graves. But her arrival is a far from welcoming one (the second Mrs. Graves is not even dead!) and she finds herself lost inside the swirl of rumors and the people and practices of Faraday House.

Will no one save her from her fate?

What I enjoyed most about this book was the mystery of it all: the house, its history, and trying to piece together what was really going on as the story takes place.

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The Third Wife of Faraday House was a fun read -
*gothic mystery
*low key tension that builds
*darkly atmospheric

I found this paranormal thriller gripping and exciting, to say the least. I was kept wondering right up til the end.

Enjoyable and recommended.


Thank you to William Morrow Paperbacks and NetGalley for the DRC

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I am glad I finished this book, it was a little slow in the middle, but I think my crow brain was to blame, wanting to change gears to newer shinier books. The mystery was decent, the romance was sweat and gentle, and I was happy that it had ghosts and the Christmas season. With the long winter nights, ghosts feel like they belong more to Christmas than to Halloween.

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I absolutely love this author. Her descriptions and attention to detail when it comes to a true gothic novel is beautiful. It’s all about setting the scene with these types of books and she does this wonderfully.

The mystery aspect was fun and entertaining. The characters are gripping and kept me interested. Highly recommend.

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This book was such a fun ride! Cozy, whimsical and mysterious, I simply couldn’t put it down. The twists and turns kept the pages turning, and there were several jaw-dropping moments. This gothic mystery truly has a little bit of everything (including even a hint of romance.)

The setting was perfectly atmospheric and I found the pacing for the mystery itself to be extremely well done. While some parts were mildly predictable, there were still many moments that surprised me. I think this one will be published at the perfect time next year to make this such a great fall read for many.

That said, I do feel there were some elements that could have been a little stronger, one of those being the romance. The main romance woven throughout felt a bit out of place and forced. While it did have me smiling at times like any good romance should, it just wasn’t completely believable and their communication (or lack thereof) was a little off putting.

I also feel Emaline’s character development could have been a little stronger, or possibly just not so rushed at the end. I felt there wasn’t much progress, and then suddenly major revelations were happening in the last 5-10%. I also would have liked to have gotten to know some of the other characters a little better, as this would have given the plot more depth for me.

Overall, I will absolutely still recommend this one, and I can't wait to read more by this author!

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The Third Wife of Faraday House is a suspenseful but fun gothic tale. Though it takes a bit to get going, the background information at the start does help provide insights into later character behavior. Once I was past the setup phase, I tore through this book. And yes, even though I guessed at the conclusion, I still very much enjoyed the journey and twists and turns. The setting and spooky descriptions were fantastic. I love that it's a "new world" location that isn't seen much in the genre. I did wish for some more character development between the various individuals, or just more in depth interactions/ connections. But overall I really enjoyed this story!

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Nothing like showing up to your new fiancé's house only to find out that his previous wife isn't quite dead yet, amirite? Awkward.

The Third Wife of Faraday House is a suspenseful and entertaining Gothic mystery. It's also billed as a romance but there's really not a whole lot of the lovey-dovey stuff to be found, which is perfectly okay with me – I'm just here for the Gothic-y bits anyway.

I found this to be a mostly enjoyable and well-written novel. It's definitely suspenseful – I read the last 50% in one setting, even though I'd actually gone to bed early because I could barely keep my eyes open. Once the action really started, I couldn't put the book down and discovered that I maybe wasn't so tired after all. The plot is twisty-turny and there are definitely a few surprises that I didn't see coming. I also appreciated the supernatural bits – this is by no means a horror story, but there is a little creepy ghostly action.

Emeline is a delightful main character and I enjoyed following along as she unravels the mysteries of Faraday House and its inhabitants. I also found myself rooting for the second Mrs. Graves, although she really doesn't have much of a personality beyond “sick.” The villains of the story aren't really much of a surprise (I mean, there aren't really all that many characters to choose from to begin with), but at the same time I was surprised by how villainous they end up being.

And the setting? Fantastic. I've mentioned (probably many times) previously that I'm a sucker for anything that involves an English manor house, and apparently that extends to Canadian manor houses as well.

My one big quibble (is “big quibble” an oxymoron? almost certainly, but whatever.) is that certain parts of the story just feel … hollow? Underdeveloped? Mainly the relationships. Emeline and Georgina are near strangers and yet they're basically BFFs by the end. The “relationship” between Emeline and Reverend Pellerine doesn't seem very realistic either, probably because they only occasionally interact and there doesn't seem to be any real non-physical reason for their attraction to each other. And the ending? I don't want to spoil anything so I'll spare the details, but it's just more of the same … the characters involved all adore each other for, um, reasons? They barely know each other!

Quibbles notwithstanding, however, The Third Wife of Faraday House is an original and suspenseful read that kept me turning the pages. 3.75 stars, rounded up.

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review.

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This book gives me many emotions—sorrow, happiness, and content. Secret lies within those you trust most, explaining why trust is the most important part of the relationship and kindness blends all around us.

Amazing book and I would highly recommend this as your TBR list in 2024.

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First of thanks to B.R Myers and Netgally for this Arc. Second, this book was so good. I went in thinking I knew what it was in for and in fact did not. I also didn't expect it to give me a bit of the spooks...but it did haha, I had to turn a light on a couple of times because I was spooked. Some of the pacing was bit off but, It was the perfect mix of mystery, romance and spooky ookies. This doesn't come out till August 2024 but definitely throw this on your TBR now!

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I liked “The 3rd Wife of Faraday House” very, very much. The main character has been raised to be pretty so as to land a good marriage and to not ruffle feathers. But upon being shipped off to Faraday House to marry Captain Graves, she finds herself digging deeper than before, not only to more strength and vulnerability but also to uncovering the mystery of the young wives and their untimely deaths at this spooky mansion by the sea. If you enjoyed B. R. Meyers' previous novel, you will absolutely like this one also- the gothic romance vibes are alive and well here!

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"The Third Wife of Faraday House" earns its 4-star rating as a captivating murder mystery with a Regency twist. B.R. Myers delivers an engaging love letter to Gothic fiction, inviting readers to unravel the ghostly secrets of Faraday House alongside a cast of compelling characters.

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Holy bookshelves, "The Third Wife of Faraday House" took me on a rollercoaster of emotions! Right from page one, I was sucked into Emeline's world, and let me tell you, it's a ride you won't want to get off. The mystery had me playing detective, trying to unravel the twists until the absolutely thrilling and oh-so-satisfying conclusion. And that epilogue? It was like the author sprinkled magic dust on the pages — *chef's kiss*

But can we talk about Emeline? She started off as this unsure, wide-eyed character, and by the end, she's this powerhouse of bravery and intelligence. The character development is like a literary glow-up that adds a whole new layer of depth to the story. I mean, kudos to B.R. Myers for turning Emeline into the awesome woman she was always meant to be!

And let's not forget the perfect blend of spookiness and romance. Picture this: rain tapping on the window, a cozy blanket, a cup of tea in hand, and you're knee-deep in the mysterious world of Faraday House. It's the kind of book that becomes your rainy day companion, making you forget about the gloom outside.

In a nutshell, "The Third Wife of Faraday House" isn't just a book; it's a literary adventure that'll keep you hooked from start to finish. If you're into stories that make your heart race, your brain work overtime, and leave you with a sense of pure satisfaction, this one's a winner. Grab a copy, clear your schedule, and get ready for a wild ride!

Got my hands on this beauty for free as an advance review copy, and let me tell you, this review is me voluntarily spilling all the bookish tea. No strings attached – just my honest, unfiltered take on the awesomeness I encountered between the pages!

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This was an excellent read it reminded me so much of a movie i love in gothic romance called crimson peaks.
this woman has to get married to this man but he is a captain of this creepy house that is covered in vines, problem is she finds out that he had two wives already one that died an another that is dying. I dont want to spoil it too much because I feel like it would spoil the plot of the story. But you do find out a lot on why the second wife died and why the third one is dying.

She hides a secret the main character as well and is nervous about telling the captain you are turning the pages and its like a lot is happening for a really big book with 45 something chapters. I read this it took me a few days because I was reading the book at night and i wanted to see what would happen in this mystery gothic book.

I was invested in on their maid of the house there was a lot of times i pointed my finger thinking it was someone else in the house and of course you do find out the truth at the end but the story was excellent. She in the beginning has to get married to captain graves while she's waiting for her main man frederick to arrive to take her away to marry her and she has to hold on to her secret. It was just so good. Thank you to netgalley for giving me this arc to read.

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Emaline Fitzpatrick is ready to escape her guardians and marry the handsome man who has captured her heart. Unfortunately, Emaline learns the hard way that when someone keeps you a secret, they’re not actually that into you. Now that she’s the face of a scandal, she has two choices: settle into life at a convent or marry Captain Graves. Emaline finds herself in quite the pickle when she arrives at Faraday. Captain Graves described himself as a widower, but it turns out his second wife is still holding on for dear life! Now Emaline finds herself trying to save Mrs. Graves from her impending death all trying to figure out if the place is really haunted.

We follow Emaline, a young woman who was raised by a judge and his wife after being orphaned. All she wants is to escape the controlling and restricted life she has with a husband of her choosing. Instead, she finds herself wedged into a corner. Emaline is not the smartest of people, but I think she just needs everyone to give her a chance even if her first step is to fall flat on her face. While she does some pretty dumb things, she also makes some pretty good discoveries, so I think she was always told that the only thing she had was her looks. One of the things I like about the book is that we get to see her slowly find her strength along the way.

This book has mystery, ghosts, and a house full of people who are not what they seem to be. Emaline is my favorite character. She’s nice, caring, and has a heart. She’s extremely naïve and isn’t always holding the braincell, but she’s fun to follow and has some excellent character growth. There is a little bit of romance in the book, and it’s easy to tell who she will ultimately end up with right away, so I wouldn’t pick this up if you’re looking for a romance.

There’s also a really interesting cast of characters. They all have their secrets. The only difference is we know what Emaline’s secrets are, so we have to watch her slowly discover everyone else’s. I think there’s only two characters who are pretty straight forward. The rest are two-faced to different degrees and everyone has a different motive. It was really interesting to see how the characters slowly reveal what they’ve really been up to.

All in all, this was an excellent read. I was fully absorbed in the story from the moment I opened the page and was actually shocked by the way a few things played out. I’m excited to read some of the author’s other books because this was truly excellent from beginning to end. I do have a few questions about the ending because Emaline’s guardians are suddenly loving saints and everyone is besties, but I think those are the only things that just appeared out of nowhere.

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The Third Wife of Faraday House
by B.R. Myers
Pub Date: 20 Aug 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

One amazing gothic romance with so many twist that will keep on your toes !!


'Til death do us part...

November 1816: Restless but naïve Emeline Fitzpatrick is desperate to escape her stifling life in foggy Halifax. Her guardian is lining up repugnant suitors, but Emeline has her eyes set on a handsome lieutenant in the British navy. She just needs to persuade him to propose, or her one chance at happiness will be gone forever.

But when Emeline’s hopes end in scandal, she finds herself with only one suitor left: the wealthy and enigmatic Captain Graves. Having already lost two wives to tragic circumstances, the unfortunate widower is seeking a new companion in his cloistered seaside manor, Faraday House. Or at least that is what Emeline had been told, because when she arrives, she is horrified to discover that the second Mrs. Graves, Georgina, has not yet died.

Emeline is only certain of two things: something ghastly is afoot at Faraday House, and no one is going to save her. She will have to rely on her own courage, her burgeoning bond with the ill but strong-willed Georgina, and the aid of a handsome reverend with a mysterious past to unravel the secrets at the heart of the manor and forge her own destiny.

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I really enjoyed the historical thriller aspect mixed with the paranormal mystery! Really well done!

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In this tale of love gone wrong resulting in an arranged marriage finds Emeline Fitzpatrick desperate to find a way out of her dilemma after her supposedly relationship with a handsome navy officer ends in scandal. She is whisked away to Faraday House, a crumbling cement home owned by a widowed sea captain. Sure, he has money but the hangup is that the captain's second wife is not yet dead when Emeline arrives! From this nifty romance hook, the story becomes one containing many gothic mystery tropes from creaking floors, women grasping candelabras, footsteps treading in secret rooms, ghosts trying to communicate with the living, a nasty suspicious staff plus a dying woman secluded in an upstairs bedroom. Emeline wants out of her upcoming nuptials and foolishly figures her navy officer will sail up and rescue her. As she waits for this miracle, a local reverend who is easy on her eyes warns her of the house's curse. This is a fine mystery that ties up neatly and readers will hope Emeline finds a happy ending.

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There are books that stay open in your mind even when you've put the book down for a while. This Third Wife of Faraday House is one of those books. This is a mysterious, gothic story about a young woman, Emeline, sent away from her guardians after scandal. Her guardians have arranged a marriage for her, but she arrives on the private island of her future husband to find out that he has a wife, Georgina, who is slowly dying. Our main character is somewhat naive and is slow to realize she can't trust anyone who lives in Faraday House. Emeline is somewhat eager to marry, but she also wants to help Georgina. But can she trust Georgina? What about the Reverend who doesn't live at the house? Is the first wife, who came before Georgina, haunting the house?

Even when Emeline is fumbling because of her naiveite, you find yourself rooting for her, as it seems like everyone is against her. It's interesting to have a heroine who isn't a traditional hero - she's sheltered, ignorant, and is grasping at a romantic scenario in her head for most of the book.

The pace picks up considerably when Emeline realizes she's been manipulated. She doesn't turn into a hero - she stumbles her way to safety in the end. The epilogue of this story is one of the most satisfying ones I've ever read. The jump into the future is a great tactic in epilogues and this one does it beautifully.

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I’m loving the spooky Jane Eyre, Rebecca vibes in this Gothic novel. Any novel with a creepy house that is a character in its own right is right up my alley.

I loved the collaborative nature between the two main female characters in this novel. It was great to see them come together to make the best of their circumstances.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

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This was such an atmospheric and gripping, gothic thriller. I really just enjoyed every second of this book. There's nothing like tons of eerie unease, ghostly apparitions and a wind-battered mansion by the sea to really set the tone. The climax of this book is absolutely ridiculous in the best way with plenty of twists and turns. The ending was satisfying and completely deserved after everything that happened along the way.

I also really loved the side romance plot. I found Emeline and Rene's moments together so sweet and I'm happy how their story ended. Of course, Moses is probably my favorite character. Gotta love a large, sweet dog.

Thank you to William Morrow, William Morrow Paperbacks and Netgalley for the e-arc of this book!

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4 🌟
A very fun, yet predictable read. Despite being predictable I quite enjoyed reading, especially after I got sucked into the characters. I found myself caring for the characters and enjoyed reading about them despite guessing at the ending. I wish there was a bit more character development, but regardless I still found myself wanting to read more. A gothic mystery read I would absolutely recommend, it's a page turner once you get invested.

Thank you to netgalley for the arc copy!

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I couldn’t help but read this book in one day. It had that classic Jane Eyre-esque gothic feel right away. The mystery was really grabbing, filled with twists I didn’t see coming and plenty of convincing red herrings. Perfect for those who like gothic that leans mysterious and paranormal without being too heavy.

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Gothic mystery!
Emeline Fitzpatrick is hoping to escape her life. Her guardian (early 1800's) is lining up potential suitors but she is hoping for more. A scandal causes her to have far less choice in her future and she takes what is left - Captain Graves. Graces is mysterious. Two previous wives has died so its safe that Emaline might be in danger. The biggest surprise to Emeline is when she arrives at Faraday House and meets the late wife! Add a bit of a gothic element and there is a spooky, almost claustrophobic feeling.
if you like paranormal with your mystery, creepy with your gothic, this is a fantastic story for you!
#williammorrow #thehtirdwifeoffaradayhouse #brmyers

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What a fun read! This is going to be absolutely perfect all year round, but especially during the Fall!

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In The Third Wife of Faraday House by B.R. Myers, the ominous atmosphere of Faraday House sets the stage for a gripping gothic thriller where the wives meet untimely ends, leaving a lingering sense of unease. As Emeline Fitzpatrick navigates the treacherous waters of marriage to the enigmatic Captain Graves, she finds herself embroiled in a web of suspicion and deceit. With each page turn, tension mounts as Emeline races against time to uncover the dark secrets lurking within the house's walls while evading her own demise. Myers skillfully blends paranormal mystery with historical thriller elements, keeping readers enthralled until the very end.

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Thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for the ARC of this book.

I wasn’t sure what to expect since I selected this book based solely on the title and the cover art, but I was pleasantly surprised. The characters were well-developed, setting was interesting (both in time and place), and the historical feeling was present. I really enjoyed the evolution of the main character throughout the book from more of a damsel in distress to someone who solves things herself. It felt very powerful.

My only minor complaint is that the pacing definitely didn’t feel even throughout the book. All the background at the beginning felt like it could have been a bit more polished, but that’s really a minor complaint in the context of the whole story.

I’d give this a 4.5/5 rounding to 5 for Goodreads purposes. Would read more from this author.

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This is a gothic novel in the style of books like Rebecca and Jane Eyre—I think the author probably likes those two novels a lot, and perhaps Persuasion, too, as there's some letter writing that reminded me of that title as well.

Emeline is a society girl living in Victorian-era Halifax, and she gets into a spot of scandal. Given the choice between getting shipped off to a convent or marrying an older sea captain who is seeking a third wife, she opts for the latter. She's promptly packed up and sent off to the captain's estate on an island.

Immediately upon her arrival she discovers the captain, the local reverend, three staff members and...the second wife. The second wife is still alive (barely) and Emeline has to more or less wait around for her to kick the bucket. The captain's already got a new marriage license drawn up and everything.

I enjoyed the pacing and setting of the novel—the way in which Emeline interacted with the dying wife was fantastic, and their interactions were by far my favorite (that sounds a lot more morbid than it is. All is not as it seems when it comes to the dying second wife!) There are some romantic subplots in the book which I actually would have done without—I found the female friendships and alliances in the book to be the strongest part.

Many thanks to William Morrow and Netgalley for the copy of this book!

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If you like Gothic mysteries and you like a touch of paranormal this is definitely the book for you. There wasn't anything about this book that I didn't enjoy. The storyline, setting and characters were all wonderful and I was engaged in the book until the end.

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I had never read a suspense book. But this story paralyzes you, wanting to know what is happening at Faraday house is completely exciting.
Emeline Fitzpatrick arrives in Faraday with a plan in mind but what Emeline wanted was not the same thing that fate had prepared for her.

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I thought this was really well written and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. I think it will find readers at our library, so we will definitely be purchasing for the collection.

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Before getting into the content, How beautiful is this cover??
When first starting this novel, I wasn’t sure who the third wife may be, and was so sad for Emeline. But of course she was double crossed by her original live interest.
I was expecting the daughter of the first Mrs Graves to be found and part of the tale, but wow would that have been twisted.
Georgina and Emiline’s friendship is the real star of this book

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I essentially finished Myers' The Third Wife of Faraday House in a single sitting (or, as close as a mom can get to a single sitting...). Myers creates a world that will have lovers of Victorian/neo-Victorian novels swooning. The mystery is intense and the plot fast-paced, and Myers finds all kinds of ways to subtly throw readers curveballs,

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Great gothic mystery in a creepy old house that has ample bumps in the night. Why do all the wives of Faraday House die young? Why is Emeline recruited to be Wife #3, when Wife #2 is still alive? Is there really a curse over the house?

Don't worry, you'll find out all the answers to your questions by the end of the book, in a story that mostly stays rational, but has a tiny bit of spooky paranormal thrown in for good measure. There are some solid creepy scenes in here and one or two minor jump scare scenes.

There aren't many people stranded on the island in Faraday House, but the author does a nice job of smoothly and reasonably shifting suspicion from person to person. (While it's a trifle odd that the Rev is living in the house, I was willing to just go with it.) As a whole, the characters are well rendered (save for the husband who isn't present for much of the book) and the story believable.

(Shout out to Moses, the best doggo ever!)

I loved how Emeline used her "get a husband" training to politely navigate all the unknowns. Since we spend the story in her brain, we know that she is scared and that something is terribly wrong. But we get to witness her use her "feminine whiles" to interview suspects, research the house's history, and try to solve the mystery without ruffling anyone's feathers.

I enjoyed the read and felt like the final quarter of the book was really cookin. I would have preferred a bit more spookiness, but overall this is a lovely read. Thank you to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

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Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow Paperbacks for the chance to read an advanced copy of The Third Wife of Faraday House.

I feel speechless. Anything I say about this incredible novel will fall short. It was all consuming in the best ways. The writing was sharp and somehow the narrator was reliable, but I never saw the twists coming.

The setting was so creepy, and yet I wanted to be there. Emeline is a beautifully developed character.

I drift toward contemporary romance most often but this opened my eyes to a new author and genre, I deeply enjoyed. Pick this up if you love suspense and honest relationship development with a dash of macabre.

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I enjoyed reading The Third Wife of Faraday House by B.R. Myers. It's an intriguing, fictional, gothic, mystery novel with a coming-of-age theme protagonist set in a spooky mansion on an island. There are several seemly characters in spooky mind-teasing scenarios. I enjoyed the chapter cliff hangers and the mysterious twists throughout the book. Emeline is a likable character who grows as the story progresses. I'm intentionally being vague as I don't want to give the story details away. Part of the fun of the novel is wondering what's next! Romance is a theme but not the main event. Special bonus character for dog lovers!

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I couldn't put down this atmospheric read by B.R. Myers. The wives always die young at Faraday House, but how? And why is the second wife, whom Emeline has come to replace, still alive? This delightfully suspenseful book pulled me in quickly and didn't let me go until the last page. An excellent read, perfect as a captivating beach read or when you're tucked into the cozy evenings of fall.

If I had one critique, it would be that everything wrapped up a little too neatly at the end. But still, a great read. Will be looking for more books by this author.

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My favorite thing about this book was the creepy/ghosty/gothic manor and grounds. Oh, and the dog. The romance wasn't really that played up, but it was fine I guess.

3.5 stars, rounded up.

Kindly received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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I really liked this. It was a fun mystery that felt unique. Although a bit repetitive (the constant "Frederick is coming for me!") thoughts became a little much, but I enjoyed the love story and how everything came together in the end. The pacing felt right on, I didn't get bored at any point, and I liked the characters.

I'd recommend this to readers who enjoy a supernatural mystery centered around female characters.

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"The Third Wife of Faraday House" by B.R. Myers is a captivating gothic mystery set in the early 1800s. Emeline Fitzpatrick finds herself entangled in scandal and intrigue when her guardians arrange an engagement to Captain Graves, a wealthy man with a mysterious past. As Emeline navigates love, scandal, and danger, she must unravel the secrets of Faraday House before it's too late.

The characters, particularly Emeline, are well-developed and relatable, with her evolution throughout the story adding depth to the narrative. While the interactions between Emeline and Captain Graves are limited, Reverend Pellerine's character provides an intriguing dynamic to the plot.

The gothic atmosphere and chilling writing style create a sense of suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Myers skillfully weaves together romance, mystery, and historical fiction, resulting in a compelling and enjoyable read.

Overall, "The Third Wife of Faraday House" is a great choice for fans of gothic mysteries seeking an atmospheric and immersive tale.

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In classic gothic style, The Third Wife of Faraday House was a slow-burn. Sprinkled with mystery and spooky scenes, it was hard to put down once it got started.

Emeline has recently discovered that her guardians are looking for "appropriate" suitors for her. They do have her best interests at heart for a well-cared-for life. Emeline, however, has something else in mind; the handsome naval officer Frederick Fletcher. If only he would follow through on his proposal and whisk her away to Bermuda as promised. Unfortunately, after being caught together, her only choice is to marry Captain Graves far away from the scandal. Emeline arrives at Faraday house to marry the Captain only to find out that the Captain's second wife, Georgina, isn't dead yet!

The setting is perfect for a gothic novel. Big stone house on an island, whose ocean road is only accessible during low tide. There's a widow walk, a dusty tower room, secret rooms, ghostly music, and blood dripping from the ceiling. It's creepy without needing to be gory. There's a feeling of constant danger, starting from the moment Emeline arrives on the island to be dumped by a broken carriage and left by herself while the driver goes onward to Faraday House. That feeling continues with Emeline's UNwelcome experience when finally making it to the house and throughout the novel. There's suspicion built into every moment.

If I have one complaint, Emeline is a difficult character to like. She's very naive and her constant pining for the lieutenant is annoying. If only he would sweep in and rescue her. If only she could get a letter to him telling him how awful it is and to hurry up already! In her mind, all she does is babble to look pretty and proper. Of course, it's in Emeline's best interests to keep Georgina alive, delay the marriage, and give Frederick time to come save her. As time went on and the relationship between Emeline and Georgina developed, she did grow on me.

As with the best gothic mysteries, little hints are given to the reader throughout the story. While you think you know immediately what is happening, there's a lot of redirection. Who you thought was the villain two chapters ago, suddenly seems to not be. There's not a single character that your opinion of will stay the same throughout. It's such a twisty little plotline!

The Third Wife of Faraday House is a mystery, ghost story, and romance all rolled into one that would appeal to readers of multiple genres. It's a bit light for most horror readers and Regency romance readers, but I think it contains enough elements of each to be discoverable for most mainstream readers.

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**I received a free digital copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**

I enjoyed this spooky gothic romance, but, admittedly, I didn't connect very well with the main character, Emeline. There were some pretty obvious connections that she could have easily made that she completely ignored or didn't even consider. And yes, I'm well aware that with fiction, readers need to suspend their disbelief, but...at a certain point, you are left asking "how did you not get that?"

Otherwise, the rest of the characters were intriguing, and the plot was genuinely engaging. The beginning was a bit slow, but around a third of the way through, I got that "one more chapter" urge. "The Third Wife of Faraday House" is an entertaining read.

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This book had the perfect creepy vibes mixed with historical fiction and it was very well done. The character growth was very well done. The writing style was right up my alley and this book wasn’t TOO spooky for me which was a plus.

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Thank you very much to William Morrow and NetGalley for providing me with an advance reader copy of The Third Wife of Faraday House by B.R. Myers. When I first read the description for the book, I was immediately intrigued and it was a very enjoyable read.

The Third Wife of Faraday House follows Emeline Fitzpatrick who's at the age where her guardians are beginning to line up suitors for her. But Emeline can't think of anything worse than staying in Halifax and marrying some guy she's not interested in. Frederick is a handsome lieutenant of the British Navy, and he and Emeline are in love with each other. But when they're caught kissing, without being properly engaged, they're caught in a scandal. To save face, her guardians arrange an engagement for her to Captain Graves, a wealthy and mysterious man who's already had two wives die tragically. When Emeline arrives to his estate she finds that the captain's second wife is still alive, and that there's something tragically wrong happening at his Faraday House. Can Emeline solve the mystery of what's happening on the island without risking her life?

The characters in this book were pretty good, and relatable even though the book takes place in the early 1800s. I thought that the way Emeline handled everything, from her first love with Frederick to her scandal to solving the mystery at Faraday, was written in a way that I could see myself making the same decisions that she was. Emeline was a bit naive but we can see her evolve throughout the story as she matures from her experiences and trauma. Captain Graves was an interesting character, but I wish we saw more of him. Although he's one of the main characters, we didn't see much from him and there was very little interaction between him and Emeline. I did like Reverand Pellerine's character, however. But once again, I wish there was more interaction between him and Emeline, especially since *spoiler* he's the love interest.

The story of this book was really good. It had been a while since I read a historical fiction story, and the gothic theme made this one very special. The author did a great job of writing in a chilling and haunting style. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time reading this.

Overall, a great gothic mystery read.

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This was a totally new genre for me! My first gothic novel ever - I was hooked. I loved the darkness and the mystery of it.

This definitely had a creepy vibe, just the right amount of romance while maintains a chilly, suspense feel.

I thought the character development of Emeline through the book was written very well.

I’ll be sharing this on my other social media platforms for sure (and I’ll be looking for more from the author)!

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This was an atmospheric and gothic historical fiction that included the paranormal to uncover the mysteries behind the curses that plague the island.

The main character seemed both immature yet overly mature depending on the situation at times, Especially at the beginning. That said, As the book progressed you could track her growth, which made it more enjoyable.

The last bit tied up the loose ends almost too well- which felt a little off from the rest of the book. But otherwise I really enjoyed the journey as I read along.

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First thank you netgally for allowing me the opportunity of reading this arc, all I can say is wow. This story was dark and chilling with a little bit of a mystery thrown in. It gave me Jane Eyre and Rebecca vibes. I loved it.

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fun gothic book with deep mystery and heartfelt romance. intereestingly done. would recommend this charming arc.

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I love gothic stories and this did not disappoint. Equal parts spooky and hilarious. Emeline is a naive young woman who finds herself at Faraday House after disappointing her guardians only to realize her predecessor (her fiance's second wife) isn't quite dead yet. The spookiness worked (some very creepy scenes) as did some of the hilarity of Emeline's naiveté. The one aspect that didn't work for me as well was the romance, but that hardly took away from the rest of the book. Highly recommend to all fans of modern gothic literature.

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Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the opportunity to read and review The Third Wife of Faraday House in exchange for my honest review. I am giving this book 4⭐️.

This book reminded me of Rebecca crossed with Crimson Peak. It felt like it was going to verge into Gaslight territory, but never actually did.

If you enjoy gothic novels about a woman in distress in a new environment such as a possibly haunted house then this is a book you will probably enjoy.

I really like this authors style of writing, I enjoyed their first book quite a bit as well. One of my favorite parts about this book is how it played with the expectations of “third wife what has this overbearing husband character been doing to these poor women?”

I liked the main character and her development from wistful dreamer to I can survive on my own and I feel like the ending of this book was well deserved for her. I was a smidge disappointed by the reveal of who the villain of the book actually was, but at least it wasn’t who most readers will probably think it would be.

I will absolutely post about this book on my social media (TikTok and YouTube) closer to its release date in August and will probably add a copy of this book to my home library.

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“At Faraday House, the wives always die young”

I was pleasantly surprised by this book! A dark, gothic, suspenseful read! I truly enjoyed the story of Emeline and her time at Faraday House and the journey her character went through from start to finish.
While the beginning was a bit slow, a chapter or so in, I couldn’t put the book down. I found myself contemplating different possible scenarios for various questions I had throughout the book - I was completely surprised at the end! Would absolutely recommend and cannot wait to read another from B.R. Myers!
Thank you to Netgalley and for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

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4/5 stars
No Spice
- haunted house, Crimson Peak vibes
- beautifully written
- great pace
- 1800's timeline
- slow burn, slight touches romance

Thank you to BR Meyers, William Morrow, and NetGalley for an ARC e-copy of this fabulous book.

Emeline Fitzpatrick is a naive and beautiful young woman hopelessly in love with a Naval officer while living in her guardian's home. They wish her to marry, soon, and find her Captain Graves, a wealthy stranger who lives on an island far from home. Her infatuation with the Naval officer is unrequited, and in an attempt to woo him back, she accepts the Captain's proposal, arriving on the island and faced with a dark and foreboding manor and his second wife still alive but dying. While there, she is haunted by not only the ghosts and odd inhabitants of the island, but also in her own past alongside a handsome Reverand.

This was a really fun, exciting read. I loved that it was such a nod to the classics, without significant gore terrifying images. I devoured this story and did not see that ending coming! I loved Emeline's personal growth and story and enjoyed her romance with the Reverand. Can we also mention how Moses (the dog) definitely stole the show here? What a hero!

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(3.75 rounded up to 4)

The summary of this book gave me Daphne Du Maurier vibes right off the bat. A gothic mansion secluded when the tide comes in and wives dying under suspicious circumstances? Yes, please!

Fearing she’s on the verge of a scandal, Emeline is sent away by her guardians to wed the twice-widowed Captain Graves. Though reluctant, she devises a plan to leave Halifax for good to be with her true love Frederick, a lieutenant in the Navy. Captain Graves’ private peninsula will be the perfect place to watch and wait for Frederick’s ship.

To her surprise, she arrives at the mansion to discover that the second Mrs. Graves has not yet passed, nor is she ailing from what she’d been told. She’s relieved to have some more time to wait for her rescue but soon grows suspicious of Georgina’s illness and wonders if she’s in danger herself.

The tone of this book lies somewhere between gothic and cozy mystery. Emeline’s personality grated on me, though still found her likable. That’s pretty much how I feel about the book as a whole. I liked a lot of it and had an enjoyable time reading it, but what I enjoyed didn’t fully make up for where it lacked. There was not a lot of characterization, in turn, Emeline’s relationships with the other characters fell flat. I was particularly confused by the ending. She sets out a plan for her future in one scene and then abandons it in the next with no further reference. The element of romance also felt forced. The mystery was intriguing enough that love interests did more interrupting than building upon the plot.

My issues aside, I did have a good time reading and often lost track of time when I picked it up. I’m not a fan of supernatural elements in books, but for some reason, I didn’t mind it so much in the context of this plot. I’m curious to read more from this author.

Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with a free digital ARC of the book!

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a gothic boo that will leave you on the edge of your seat. this book isn’t like any other gothic book i’ve read

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This was my first book by B.R Myers and I was hooked! I immediately started looking for all of her books to read to see if they would stand up to this one. Happy to say that I haven’t been disappointed yet! She’s great with including mystery, suspense and drama with a little romance mixed in!


I just reviewed The Third Wife of Faraday House by B.R. Myers. #TheThirdWifeofFaradayHouse #NetGalley

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This was truly an ode to gothic literature and for fans of that it will not disappoint. The premise was interesting and well thought out. There were a few bits that felt discarded for convenience, such as the previous male interest, but it didn't take away from the overall plot.

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I am not usually a "thriller" or a "ghost story" type of person. But something about this book made me want to give it a try. I am glad that I decided to dive in and give it a try.
Emiline is a girl in the early 1800's, waiting to be whisked away to a life as a Navy wife by her handsome sailor. Of course, not everything is as it seems, and scandal forces her guardians to make new plans for her, sending her to a dark manor and an older suitor who is looking for a new wife and someone who can give him an heir. But when Emiline arrives, she discovers that the second wife is not as dead as the suitor claimed, and much about the manor and the island are not as they seem.
The story weaves elements of a ghost story, a mystery or two, and a bit of romance. the mystery pulled me in. Not a single character is who they seem to be, and many of their actions and motivations truly surprised me. I also got a bit into the Canadian history and geography of this story - doing some extra research to try and picture the location, or understand the time period a bit better.
As someone who doesn't read a lot of "thriller" type stories, some of the aspects of the story seemed to be a bit slow, or unnecessary, but once everything started to come together, I was truly enthralled and locked myself away just so I could keep reading. Enjoy the mystery of the Third Wife of Faraday House!

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Emeline, in love with an unsuitable military man, is shipped off to marry a ship captain. Don't read more before you go in, the surprises are part of the fun.

I picked this up based on the cover and plot and only later saw it was classified as "general fiction / women's fiction / romance". I would have assumed it is gothic horror. This is an excellent example of a really well done gothic. There is even buried treasure and poisons and secret rooms and ghostly music and conversations head through vents and a widow's walk and oooh it's so good.

The most masterful part of this book is the pacing and storytelling. Clues are well placed and it's really a page turner. (Once or twice it drifted into the "thriller" style of ending a chapter on a faux-cliffhanger; this wasn't necessary).

I also enjoyed the Halifax setting. The descriptions of food made me hungry. The characters are distinct and well drawn. I am glad I didn't realize it was supposed to be a romance because watching that storyline develop fairly late in the tale was a pleasure.

I cried 3 times reading this book's most tender moments about family, loss, and hope.

If I could change anything, I would have a little of the spark and wit of Emeline show through in the first third of the book so there is a little more of a through-line.

I genuinely enjoyed this experience of reading this book, and it may even make my top 10 list for the year. I say may because it's only January as I write this but truly - I loved it!

Thank you to William Morris and NetGalley for the early copy.

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I received an ARC of this book for my honest feedback. This book is sooo good! I read it all today and couldn’t put it down! The book is full of mystery and suspense and just waiting to find out who did what, and what was causing the events to happen… without giving anything away… I held on to every single word and followed the story. Such a fast and wonderful read with a suspenseful and tense read until the very end. 100% recommend!

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I can see how this might not be for everyone, but it was for me. This book had the kind of spooky gothic vibes with time sensitive mystery, is it a curse or something more malicious? I do not like high stakes mystery or too much suspense/thriller, because I have ✨anxiety✨, and this had enough to be engaging but not too much that I will have nightmares. This would be a great intro to mystery/gothic fiction. 4.5 ⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC.

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This was such a fun read! Firstly, the protagonist Emeline is so funny. I often come across books where the protagonist is supposed to be witty but they never really are. However, Emeline is genuinely hilarious. I smiled and laughed so many times.

Second, the writing. It was gorgeous. B.R. Myers has a knack for describing backdrops and moments and the world of the novel in such a vivid and clear way. She uses exactly the amount of words needed to deliver the point. This is my first time reading something by Myers but I was so impressed and would definitely read more works by them.

Thirdly, the Gothic vibes were so chilly and spooky, I loved it. I can see fans of Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier really enjoying this book.

Overall, this was an amazing read and I would definitely recommend it to others. Thank you to William Morrow Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an unbiased review

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This really was a nice cozy gothic mystery. Although not at all the same book, I got the same vibes as when I read Northanger Abbey, with both books following a very naive but lovable FMC as she enters into a big, creepy house completely unknown to her. The similarities mostly stop there, but the vibe is a great one for fall especially. The writing was also very well done and I could picture the island and the manor perfectly. I love when an author is able to transport me to a place with their descriptions, even down to the taste of food. The plot is full of mystery and suspense, especially the last half of the book. Nothing to cause a jump scare, but just enough to give you the chills at times. There is also a large subplot of Emeline, the main character, coming into herself as her own person. Her character had a lot of growth and heart. The characters are kind of exaggerated, but in this genre I actually like that. The romance is very very little, and really not much develops until the end, but the few conversations and banter sessions between Emeline and Reverend Pellerine are adorable. There could have been more development there for sure, but my biggest complaint is probably that Emeline and Georgina needed more conversations to establish their bond. But overall I have very few complaints and this was a solid 4 star read. Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

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