Review: A Dreadful Splendor by B.R. Myers

A Dreadful Splendor

by B.R. Myers

August 23, 2022

Goodreads Summary:

In this spectacularly imaginative and ghoulishly fun Gothic murder mystery brimming with romance, betrayals, and chills, a fake spiritualist is summoned to hold a séance for a bride who died on the eve before her wedding, but as nefarious secrets are revealed, the line between hoax and haunting blurs.

Be careful what you conjure...

In Victorian London, Genevieve Timmons poses as a spiritualist to swindle wealthy mourners--until one misstep lands her in a jail cell awaiting the noose. Then a stranger arrives to make her a peculiar offer. The Lord he serves, Mr. Pemberton, has been inconsolable since the tragic death of his beautiful bride-to-be. If Genevieve can perform a séance persuasive enough to bring the young Lord peace, she will win her freedom.

Soothing a grieving nobleman should be easy for someone of Genevieve's skill, but when she arrives at the grand Somerset Park estate, Mr. Pemberton is not the heartbroken lover she expected. The surly--yet exceedingly handsome--gentleman is certain that his fiancée was murdered, even though there is no evidence. Only a confession can bring justice now, and Mr. Pemberton decides Genevieve will help him get it. With his knowledge of the household and her talent for illusion, they can stage a haunting so convincing it will coax the killer into the light. However, when frightful incidents befall the manor, Genevieve realizes her tricks aren't required after all. She may be a fake, but Somerset's ghost could be all too real...

A Dreadful Splendor is a wickedly whimsical brew of mystery, spooky thrills, and intoxicating romance that makes for an irresistibly fun and page-turning read.

Review

Unforgettable and refreshing, I loved every minute of reading A Dreadful Splendor. The story really hooked me. I couldn't stop reading. Gothic murder mystery might be my new favourite thing.

A Dreadful Splendor had a wonderful balance of mystery and romance. I was very intrigued by the mystery, a little creeped out from the atmospheric writing but also quite fulfilled with the romance. There was never a dull moment. My mind worked full time trying to solve the murder while my stomach did tiny flips at every possible romantic interaction.

Ah, Genevieve and Mr. Pemberton~ Their romance was a super slow burn. From skeptical opposites to careful camaraderie to understanding allies, I savoured the different types of tension between them. So gentle and so sweet.

I'm a big fan of Genevieve and her learned skills. Every performance she put on she gave it her all. And they were never completely fake. I was both touched and entertained by the outcomes. Genevieve's complicated backstory surprised me. But watching her become surer of herself and face her fears was super rewarding.

I wish A Dreadful Splendor didn't have such a tidy ending. I want to spend more time with these characters. May I please get a sequel story?? Gothic mystery fans, make sure you don't sleep on this one!!!

*I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the ARC I received.