The Curse of Penryth Hall

Thanks to Libro.fm and the publisher for the alc!

I enjoyed the twisty mystery with some light fantastical elements. Ruby is a great character, and the supporting cast made for a fun collection of people. I would pick up the sequel!

A really great debut novel! I loved the mystery with a hint of fantasy weaved in. The characters were realistic enough that I didn't question motives or thoughts and it was a refreshing version of romance.
Excited to read the next one!

I just finished The Curse of Penryth hall by Jess Armstrong @jessl_armstrong and here are my thoughts.

Ruby Vaughn didn't have the life she expected to have. After the war, she found herself running a rare bookstore with her very old employer and housemate. She left a life behind and doesn't dwell on it until she is sent to deliver a box of rare books to a place Ruby swore she would never set foot in again. Instead of delivering the books and leaving right away, she makes the foolish decision to visit Penryth Hall.

Her old friend Tamryn lives there with her husband Edward. Vowing to leave the next day, Ruby is mortified to learn the bells are ringing for the first time in 30 years and they are ringing to announce the death of Tamryns husband. The town begins to rumble about the return of the curse. She doesn't believe in curses but she can't now leave when Tamryn is now in danger.

Can she and the pellar find out what is really going on before it is too late?

This book started a little slow. I wasn't 100% sure I was going to like it at first but I was pleasantly surprised after a couple of chapters. I always love a good relatable MC and Ruby was awesome. She didn't try and conform and ended up carving out a nice little life for herself.

She always seems to get herself involved in things that she should stay out of but she is definitely handy to have around. I really enjoyed her banter with the pellar, he is like a witch healer and seems to be revered by the town which I was totally loving. The vicar seemed to be shady and I was loving that too!

The whole curse was an interesting concept and I very much enjoyed the conclusion to the mystery which I never did figure out! I love books that keep me guessing. The plot was great, the characters were solid and I felt the writing was quite excellent. Historical mysteries seem to be top for me as of late. This one hit every mark for me and I would love to read more from this author.

Solid 4.5 stars!!

Thank you to @minotaur_books for my gifted copy of this masterpiece!

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