Ghosts, Crimes, and Romance
⭐️Overall rating: 4/5
📚 Synopsis:
The year is 1873. Two women on the case of solving two murders back in London.Each woman has a connection to the case, one lost a friend and the other lost a sister. With various dangers at every turn, not everybody is who they say they are and their motives are not always clear. Can the dead share their secrets and help provide closure to this case.
My Thoughts:
• I liked the LGBT+ representation, it didn’t feel forced or like it was supposed to be there for “shock”. It was just some characters who were lgbt+ and has other values about them too. (Bi and lesbian rep)
• Some of the plot twists really got me, and others I saw coming - but it didn’t create plot holes in the way this can sometimes happen in books.
• It was a medium sized read, but I was engaged throughout.
• The character growth felt fitting and in some ways I found it surprising.
#thelondonseancesociety #historicalfiction #lgbtqbooks #mysterybooks #lemon8bookworm
Have you ever found yourself drawn to stories that send shivers down your spine but also warm your heart with a touch of romance? If so, you're probably a fan of 'horrormance' without even knowing it! This unique genre, a blend of horror (or supernatural/mystery) and romance, is having a moment, and for good reason. It offers the thrill of suspense and the comfort of connection, often exploring complex emotions against a backdrop of the unknown. What I loved about 'The London Seance Society' by Sarah Penner, which I just reviewed, is how perfectly it embodies this blend. You have the eerie atmosphere of 1873 London, the intrigue of solving murders, and the presence of ghosts, all intertwined with compelling character relationships, including beautiful LGBT+ subplot romances. It's not just about jump scares; it's about the deep bonds forged under extraordinary, often terrifying, circumstances. The mystery element keeps you guessing, while the historical fiction setting adds so much rich detail that you can almost smell the gas lamps and feel the chill of the seance room. For me, the appeal lies in the heightened stakes. When characters face supernatural threats or delve into dark mysteries, their emotional connections become even more potent. It's fascinating to see how love can bloom amidst danger, offering a beacon of hope in bleak situations. The tension isn't just from the plot; it's from wondering if these characters, whom you've grown to care for, will survive both the external horrors and their internal struggles. The 'GoodReads rating' often reflects how well authors balance these elements, creating a truly immersive experience. If you're eager to dive deeper into the 'horrormance' world after reading my review of 'The London Seance Society,' here are a few things I look for. First, check out historical fiction with a supernatural bent. Often, the past provides a rich tapestry for ghostly encounters and hidden secrets. Second, keep an eye out for books marketed as gothic romance, dark fantasy romance, or even paranormal romance with a stronger emphasis on the 'paranormal' and less on pure fantasy. Look for keywords like 'ghosts,' 'witches,' 'vampires,' 'curses,' or 'mysteries' alongside 'love story' or 'romance.' Reading reviews, especially those mentioning unexpected twists or character-driven plots, can also guide you to your next obsession. It's truly a genre that offers something for everyone who loves a good thrill and a good love story. Don't be afraid to explore! You might just find your next favorite read that keeps you up all night, both from suspense and from falling in love with the characters.
