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The Lost Bride Trilogy #1
Inheritance
Inheritance is the first in The Lost Bride Trilogy by #1 New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts―a tale of tragedies, loves found and lost, and a family haunted for generations.
1806: Astrid Poole sits in her bridal clothes, overwhelmed with happiness. But before her marriage can be consummated, she is murdered, and the circle of gold torn from her finger. Her last words are a promise to Collin never to leave him…
Graphic designer Sonya MacTavish is stunned to learn that her late father had a twin he never knew about―and that her newly discovered uncle, Collin Poole, has left her almost everything he owned, including a majestic Victorian house on the Maine coast, which the will stipulates she must live in it for at least three years. Her engagement recently broken, she sets off to find out why the boys were separated at birth―and why it was all kept secret until a genealogy website brought it to light.
Trey, the young lawyer who greets her at the sprawling clifftop manor, notes Sonya’s unease―and acknowledges that yes, the place is haunted…but just a little. Sure enough, Sonya finds objects moved and music playing out of nowhere. She sees a painting by her father inexplicably hanging in her deceased uncle’s office, and a portrait of a woman named Astrid, whom the lawyer refers to as “the first lost bride.” It’s becoming clear that Sonya has inherited far more than a house. She has inherited a centuries-old curse, and a puzzle to be solved if there is any hope of breaking it…
1806: Astrid Poole sits in her bridal clothes, overwhelmed with happiness. But before her marriage can be consummated, she is murdered, and the circle of gold torn from her finger. Her last words are a promise to Collin never to leave him…
Graphic designer Sonya MacTavish is stunned to learn that her late father had a twin he never knew about―and that her newly discovered uncle, Collin Poole, has left her almost everything he owned, including a majestic Victorian house on the Maine coast, which the will stipulates she must live in it for at least three years. Her engagement recently broken, she sets off to find out why the boys were separated at birth―and why it was all kept secret until a genealogy website brought it to light.
Trey, the young lawyer who greets her at the sprawling clifftop manor, notes Sonya’s unease―and acknowledges that yes, the place is haunted…but just a little. Sure enough, Sonya finds objects moved and music playing out of nowhere. She sees a painting by her father inexplicably hanging in her deceased uncle’s office, and a portrait of a woman named Astrid, whom the lawyer refers to as “the first lost bride.” It’s becoming clear that Sonya has inherited far more than a house. She has inherited a centuries-old curse, and a puzzle to be solved if there is any hope of breaking it…
419 pages, Hardcover
First published November 21, 2023
About the author
Nora Roberts
1,696 books51.3k followersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,562 reviews
November 24, 2023
Super addictive haunting & romance! 👰🩷👻
It was love at first sight seeing this gorgeous cover. I knew I had to read Nora Roberts' latest trilogy. I can say that "Inheritance" book one of The Lost Bride trilogy did not disappoint. Roberts expertly blends a centuries-old ghost story with contemporary romance that will keep you glued to the pages.
Sonya MacTavish is busy with her wedding planning but decides to cancel a meeting with her florist to get home early only to find the fiance in bed with her cousin! Of course, she calls off the wedding and throws the fiance out of her Boston home.
Shortly after Sonya receives shocking news that her late father had a twin brother who recently passed away and that she's the heir to his mansion in Maine.
The Lost Bride Trilogy will appeal to fans of gothic haunted houses, low-steam romance, family curses and secrets, whodunit mystery, and dual timeline paranormal fantasy.
This is not spooky (yet) and I get many feel-good vibes from Sonya's BFF Cleo, the lawyer love interest, invisible residents of the mansion, and other secondary characters. This is almost five stars for me but the romance part got on too quickly without much chemistry or tension. I also find that things fall into places too conveniently for Sonya. I'd like to see some flaws and setbacks.
That being said, I am hooked from the first to the very last page. Do expect a massive cliffhanger ending that'll make you wish you wouldn't need to wait another year. Gaaah! I absolutely could not wait to read/listen to the second book.
A stellar audiobook performed by Brittany Pressley!
13H 52M
Published Nov 21, 2023!
Thank you Macmillan Audio and Netgalley for the ALC.
It was love at first sight seeing this gorgeous cover. I knew I had to read Nora Roberts' latest trilogy. I can say that "Inheritance" book one of The Lost Bride trilogy did not disappoint. Roberts expertly blends a centuries-old ghost story with contemporary romance that will keep you glued to the pages.
Sonya MacTavish is busy with her wedding planning but decides to cancel a meeting with her florist to get home early only to find the fiance in bed with her cousin! Of course, she calls off the wedding and throws the fiance out of her Boston home.
Shortly after Sonya receives shocking news that her late father had a twin brother who recently passed away and that she's the heir to his mansion in Maine.
The Lost Bride Trilogy will appeal to fans of gothic haunted houses, low-steam romance, family curses and secrets, whodunit mystery, and dual timeline paranormal fantasy.
This is not spooky (yet) and I get many feel-good vibes from Sonya's BFF Cleo, the lawyer love interest, invisible residents of the mansion, and other secondary characters. This is almost five stars for me but the romance part got on too quickly without much chemistry or tension. I also find that things fall into places too conveniently for Sonya. I'd like to see some flaws and setbacks.
That being said, I am hooked from the first to the very last page. Do expect a massive cliffhanger ending that'll make you wish you wouldn't need to wait another year. Gaaah! I absolutely could not wait to read/listen to the second book.
A stellar audiobook performed by Brittany Pressley!
13H 52M
Published Nov 21, 2023!
Thank you Macmillan Audio and Netgalley for the ALC.
December 13, 2023
Gothic mansion meets fantasy romance and mystery vibes: Nora Roberts introduces us to another intriguing and addictive trilogy, luring us in with a two-century-long mystery and spine-tingling ghost story vibes.
The tough and reliable heroine, Sonya, and the charming and kind-hearted hero, Trent, along with the supportive and original occult science lover, bestie Cleo, are brilliant characters. The eerie yet strong and sumptuous presence of the house, with its alluring setting and mesmerizing yet thrilling atmosphere, intrigues you to learn more about its secrets.
However, there were two things that didn't sit quite right with me. Firstly, the abrupt ending left me feeling like I crashed my car into a brick wall while going at full speed. The story cut off with a cliffhanger that I didn't see coming. At first, I even thought maybe the publishers forgot to send me the rest of the manuscript, but then I realized that the rest belongs to the second book, which I have to wait at least a year to read. It made me want to scream, but alas, that's the reality of it.
The other thing I didn't fully enjoy was the underdevelopment of the romance story between Sonya and Trent. While there was an obvious attraction, I didn't sense the chemistry or a slow-burn progression that would lead their friendship into an intimate relationship. One minute they were friends teasing each other, and the next they were in bed together. I would never say no to a second-chance romance with palpable chemistry.
Here's a glimpse into the plot of the first book in the 'Lost Bride Trilogy':
The book opens in the past, in 1806, in Maine, introducing Astrid Poole, a bride-to-be in her wedding gown, excitedly preparing for her wedding ceremony. However, a mysterious jealous woman, sworn to stop the wedding, stabs her to death and steals her wedding ring. Poor groom Colin finds his bleeding lover, whose last words were that she would never leave him.
We then move back to the present time to meet another bride-to-be, Sonya McTavish, who makes a last-minute decision to skip her meeting with the florist and return to her shared home with her fiancé. But a surprise awaits her that will change the course of her future: she finds her fiancé in bed with her cousin. After kicking them out, calling her best friend Cleo and her mother to cancel the wedding, and boxing up her ex's belongings, she thinks she can move on with her life. However, she didn't anticipate her ex's vindictive attacks in the workplace, which lead her to resign and work freelance as a graphic designer.
As she adjusts to her new freedom, a visit from the mysterious lawyer Deuce changes everything once again. Deuce reveals that he is the best friend of her father's twin brother, Colin Poole. Wait, her father has a brother? The shocking news about the twins' separation and adoption by different families comes as a cold shower. When she hears that Colin has also left a Victorian mansion in Maine to her, with the condition that she must live there for at least three years to fully inherit it, she can't say no to the offer of a fresh start.
However, she soon realizes that this offer comes with a catch. The beautiful mansion has invisible visitors who rearrange Sonya's belongings, play mood-inspired songs, leave undiscovered portraits, make her bed, and even leave drawers open. On top of that, she starts hearing piano sounds and banging on the door in the middle of the night.
Is she going mad, or are spirits lurking around the house? She soon realizes that the spirit of the lost bride needs her help with unfinished business, and fortunately, she's not alone in facing the mansion's curse. Deuce's charming and helpful lawyer son, Trey, becomes her lover, while her best friend Cleo agrees to move to the mansion to delve into the occult mystery. Her cousin Owen is also there to support her in unraveling the mystery.
Overall, it's a great start to a fantasy, gothic horror, and historical romance trilogy. I'm still reeling from the abrupt ending, but I eagerly look forward to reading the next installment in the near future, filled with excitement and high expectations.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this thrilling novel's digital review copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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The tough and reliable heroine, Sonya, and the charming and kind-hearted hero, Trent, along with the supportive and original occult science lover, bestie Cleo, are brilliant characters. The eerie yet strong and sumptuous presence of the house, with its alluring setting and mesmerizing yet thrilling atmosphere, intrigues you to learn more about its secrets.
However, there were two things that didn't sit quite right with me. Firstly, the abrupt ending left me feeling like I crashed my car into a brick wall while going at full speed. The story cut off with a cliffhanger that I didn't see coming. At first, I even thought maybe the publishers forgot to send me the rest of the manuscript, but then I realized that the rest belongs to the second book, which I have to wait at least a year to read. It made me want to scream, but alas, that's the reality of it.
The other thing I didn't fully enjoy was the underdevelopment of the romance story between Sonya and Trent. While there was an obvious attraction, I didn't sense the chemistry or a slow-burn progression that would lead their friendship into an intimate relationship. One minute they were friends teasing each other, and the next they were in bed together. I would never say no to a second-chance romance with palpable chemistry.
Here's a glimpse into the plot of the first book in the 'Lost Bride Trilogy':
The book opens in the past, in 1806, in Maine, introducing Astrid Poole, a bride-to-be in her wedding gown, excitedly preparing for her wedding ceremony. However, a mysterious jealous woman, sworn to stop the wedding, stabs her to death and steals her wedding ring. Poor groom Colin finds his bleeding lover, whose last words were that she would never leave him.
We then move back to the present time to meet another bride-to-be, Sonya McTavish, who makes a last-minute decision to skip her meeting with the florist and return to her shared home with her fiancé. But a surprise awaits her that will change the course of her future: she finds her fiancé in bed with her cousin. After kicking them out, calling her best friend Cleo and her mother to cancel the wedding, and boxing up her ex's belongings, she thinks she can move on with her life. However, she didn't anticipate her ex's vindictive attacks in the workplace, which lead her to resign and work freelance as a graphic designer.
As she adjusts to her new freedom, a visit from the mysterious lawyer Deuce changes everything once again. Deuce reveals that he is the best friend of her father's twin brother, Colin Poole. Wait, her father has a brother? The shocking news about the twins' separation and adoption by different families comes as a cold shower. When she hears that Colin has also left a Victorian mansion in Maine to her, with the condition that she must live there for at least three years to fully inherit it, she can't say no to the offer of a fresh start.
However, she soon realizes that this offer comes with a catch. The beautiful mansion has invisible visitors who rearrange Sonya's belongings, play mood-inspired songs, leave undiscovered portraits, make her bed, and even leave drawers open. On top of that, she starts hearing piano sounds and banging on the door in the middle of the night.
Is she going mad, or are spirits lurking around the house? She soon realizes that the spirit of the lost bride needs her help with unfinished business, and fortunately, she's not alone in facing the mansion's curse. Deuce's charming and helpful lawyer son, Trey, becomes her lover, while her best friend Cleo agrees to move to the mansion to delve into the occult mystery. Her cousin Owen is also there to support her in unraveling the mystery.
Overall, it's a great start to a fantasy, gothic horror, and historical romance trilogy. I'm still reeling from the abrupt ending, but I eagerly look forward to reading the next installment in the near future, filled with excitement and high expectations.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this thrilling novel's digital review copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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November 21, 2023
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY 11/21/23!!!
Inheritance by Nora Roberts is Book #1 in The Lost Bride Trilogy!
Sonya MacTavish recently made several changes in her life. A break-up with her fiancé started the ball rolling, but she didn't stop there. She quit her job, opened her own Graphics design business, and moved from Boston to the Maine coast. It didn't all happen at once, but it sure felt like it.
Sonya believed the sight of finding her cheating fiancé in bed with her cousin was the biggest shock she'd ever have, but it wasn't. It was learning her late father had a twin he never knew about and finding herself as the heir to most of the estate of her newly discovered uncle, Collin Poole.
Sonya learned her uncle's estate included a beautiful Victorian mansion, that according to the will, she must reside in for three years to receive her inheritance, hence the move to Poole's Bay, Maine. Trey, a young lawyer, greeted Sonya upon her arrival, gave her a tour of the mansion, and confirmed that yes, the house is indeed haunted. But only a little...
Inheritance is my first Nora Roberts read and its steeped in family history, secrets from the past to unravel, and a variety of entertaining ghosts in varying ages and levels of temperament, some are seen, most are not.
The pace is fast, holding my interest with a mixture of characters that complement each other right down to Sonya's best friend Cleo, and "The Boys", two adorable rescue dogs who are also besties. I loved that.
I found Nora Roberts easy writing style to be addictive and fluid, and an easy listen. The 13H 52M audiobook goes by quickly with Brittany Pressley's excellent voicing skills. Another stellar narration!
I don't know if I was expecting a cliffhanger but there it was and it's quite good. I'll be listening to the second book in The Lost Bride Trilogy and I highly recommend Inheritance to readers who enjoy a well-written haunted house story with entertaining characters, both alive and dead!
4⭐
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Nora Roberts for an ALC of this book. It has been an honor to give my honest and voluntary review.
Inheritance by Nora Roberts is Book #1 in The Lost Bride Trilogy!
Sonya MacTavish recently made several changes in her life. A break-up with her fiancé started the ball rolling, but she didn't stop there. She quit her job, opened her own Graphics design business, and moved from Boston to the Maine coast. It didn't all happen at once, but it sure felt like it.
Sonya believed the sight of finding her cheating fiancé in bed with her cousin was the biggest shock she'd ever have, but it wasn't. It was learning her late father had a twin he never knew about and finding herself as the heir to most of the estate of her newly discovered uncle, Collin Poole.
Sonya learned her uncle's estate included a beautiful Victorian mansion, that according to the will, she must reside in for three years to receive her inheritance, hence the move to Poole's Bay, Maine. Trey, a young lawyer, greeted Sonya upon her arrival, gave her a tour of the mansion, and confirmed that yes, the house is indeed haunted. But only a little...
Inheritance is my first Nora Roberts read and its steeped in family history, secrets from the past to unravel, and a variety of entertaining ghosts in varying ages and levels of temperament, some are seen, most are not.
The pace is fast, holding my interest with a mixture of characters that complement each other right down to Sonya's best friend Cleo, and "The Boys", two adorable rescue dogs who are also besties. I loved that.
I found Nora Roberts easy writing style to be addictive and fluid, and an easy listen. The 13H 52M audiobook goes by quickly with Brittany Pressley's excellent voicing skills. Another stellar narration!
I don't know if I was expecting a cliffhanger but there it was and it's quite good. I'll be listening to the second book in The Lost Bride Trilogy and I highly recommend Inheritance to readers who enjoy a well-written haunted house story with entertaining characters, both alive and dead!
4⭐
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Nora Roberts for an ALC of this book. It has been an honor to give my honest and voluntary review.
September 18, 2023
The cost of Sonya's new life and finding out how to be happy? One fiance, the unearthing of family tragedies, and a leap of faith! Nora Robert's latest, Inheritance, is the first in her new series, The Lost Bride Trilogy, which takes family secrets to a new level!!
My hands down favorite part of this series is that the main character explores what she really wants vs. what she THINKS she's supposed to want. That's a big one for many of us as we get older -- if you don't know what really makes you happy, then you'll always feel a little lost to yourself.
THOUGHTS:
- Loved how female friendships/relationships are portrayed! From mothers and daughters to friends and female bosses etc. When they were good, they were really good!
- This Nora Roberts series is definitely dipping more into the fantasy/paranormal realm. If you loved any of her other books like The Dragon Heart Legacy series - you'll probably really like this one as well!
- Awesome cliffhanger! I read this super quickly because I wanted to know exactly who committed that initial crime, and while the cliffhanger definitely left me wanting more, I still felt like I got a few answers.
NOTES:
- 🌶️🌶️/5 - Loved how the romance developed from that slow burn! (Closed door.)
**Thank you to St. Martin's Press & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
My hands down favorite part of this series is that the main character explores what she really wants vs. what she THINKS she's supposed to want. That's a big one for many of us as we get older -- if you don't know what really makes you happy, then you'll always feel a little lost to yourself.
THOUGHTS:
- Loved how female friendships/relationships are portrayed! From mothers and daughters to friends and female bosses etc. When they were good, they were really good!
- This Nora Roberts series is definitely dipping more into the fantasy/paranormal realm. If you loved any of her other books like The Dragon Heart Legacy series - you'll probably really like this one as well!
- Awesome cliffhanger! I read this super quickly because I wanted to know exactly who committed that initial crime, and while the cliffhanger definitely left me wanting more, I still felt like I got a few answers.
NOTES:
- 🌶️🌶️/5 - Loved how the romance developed from that slow burn! (Closed door.)
**Thank you to St. Martin's Press & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
November 22, 2023
the setup…
Sonya MacTavish is a graphic artist who was living in Boston with her fiancé, planning her wedding and working at a company she loved. When she came home early and unexpectedly one afternoon, catching him “in flagrante delecto” with another woman, her life changed overnight. Not long after, Sonya is contacted by the lawyer for a man named Collin Poole, who is recently deceased and left her most of his estate in Maine. Unbeknownst to her or anyone else in her family, Collin was her deceased father’s twin brother (separated at birth). But, the estate has a caveat…she has to move to Maine and live in the mansion for three years in order to keep her inheritance. And that mansion? It comes fully stocked and occupied with a host of ghosts.
the heart of the story…
I’m really happy this is a trilogy because this first book takes its time to develop not only Sonya and the people that are now going to be important in her life but all those ethereal who occupy that estate and there are a lot of them! Sonya is clearly at the center of everything and is embracing not only her new relatives but their history and the legend of the lost brides. It’s a lot to track but things happen that help ingrain it all in your memory, at least it did for me. There are a host of mysteries to unlock and I’m already deeply hooked. And, there’s romance in the air as she’s already gained the attention of the lawyer’s son, Oliver (Trey) Doyle, III who is also an attorney. But it’s the ghosts in that house that provide comic relief, assistance and sometimes extreme fear. Their personalities are distinct and Sonya’s willingness to engage them is remarkable.
the narration…
Pressley is one of my favorites but she’s outdone herself here, providing a level of storytelling skills and voice distinctions that are utterly outstanding. I’ll be listening to the entire series.
the bottom line…
I’m in for the long haul, fully invested in these characters, their livelihoods and what’s keeping those ghosts tied to that mansion. Sonya, her best friend Chloe, her new beau Trey and new cousin Owen have already formed as a network committed to unraveling the secrets of the past and the one malevolent force who is determined to be deadly. Be forewarned that this ends rather dramatically, leaving me aching for the next chapter. I’m loving everything about this saga and while ghost stories aren’t normally my favorite storyline, these apparitions are something special.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Sonya MacTavish is a graphic artist who was living in Boston with her fiancé, planning her wedding and working at a company she loved. When she came home early and unexpectedly one afternoon, catching him “in flagrante delecto” with another woman, her life changed overnight. Not long after, Sonya is contacted by the lawyer for a man named Collin Poole, who is recently deceased and left her most of his estate in Maine. Unbeknownst to her or anyone else in her family, Collin was her deceased father’s twin brother (separated at birth). But, the estate has a caveat…she has to move to Maine and live in the mansion for three years in order to keep her inheritance. And that mansion? It comes fully stocked and occupied with a host of ghosts.
the heart of the story…
I’m really happy this is a trilogy because this first book takes its time to develop not only Sonya and the people that are now going to be important in her life but all those ethereal who occupy that estate and there are a lot of them! Sonya is clearly at the center of everything and is embracing not only her new relatives but their history and the legend of the lost brides. It’s a lot to track but things happen that help ingrain it all in your memory, at least it did for me. There are a host of mysteries to unlock and I’m already deeply hooked. And, there’s romance in the air as she’s already gained the attention of the lawyer’s son, Oliver (Trey) Doyle, III who is also an attorney. But it’s the ghosts in that house that provide comic relief, assistance and sometimes extreme fear. Their personalities are distinct and Sonya’s willingness to engage them is remarkable.
the narration…
Pressley is one of my favorites but she’s outdone herself here, providing a level of storytelling skills and voice distinctions that are utterly outstanding. I’ll be listening to the entire series.
the bottom line…
I’m in for the long haul, fully invested in these characters, their livelihoods and what’s keeping those ghosts tied to that mansion. Sonya, her best friend Chloe, her new beau Trey and new cousin Owen have already formed as a network committed to unraveling the secrets of the past and the one malevolent force who is determined to be deadly. Be forewarned that this ends rather dramatically, leaving me aching for the next chapter. I’m loving everything about this saga and while ghost stories aren’t normally my favorite storyline, these apparitions are something special.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
November 20, 2023
Happy release day tomorrow 11/21 🩷🩷
I'm having a hard time trying to rate this- I'm going to settle on 3.5 stars for now.
Inheritance, the first book of The Lost Bride trilogy starts in 1806 at Astrid Poole's wedding day. As she sits down in her bridal gown, overwhelmed with happiness, she is murdered, and her wedding ring is torn from her finger.
Flash forward in present day, graphic designer Sonya MacTavish is shocked and surprised when she walks into the home she shares with her fiancé to find him in the act of having an affair. She quickly calls off the wedding and breaks off the engagement.
Shortly after, she finds out that her late father had a twin brother that he never knew existed. Sonya's newly discovered uncle, Collin Poole, has died and left her almost everything, including a Victorian manor in Maine. His will stipulates that she must live in the house for at least three years. Now newly single after her broken engagement, Sonya agrees to move to the small coastal town and into the manor home.
As Sonya settles into her new life and home, she starts noticing small things, shadowy figures in windows, things being moved when she is sure she left them in another place. Music that turns on by itself. Fires being lit on their own.
It soon becomes clear to Sonya that not only has she inherited a gorgeous and sprawling manor home, but a centuries old curse that goes along with it.
I've been thinking about this book for a little while, trying to decide how I feel about it. I'm very new to Nora Roberts novels so I'm still a little unfamiliar with her style of writing.
I really enjoyed each and every one of the characters, they are so likable and well rounded- Roberts does such a fantastic job of breathing life into them and the writing flows so effortlessly, truly a captivating story teller.
Sonya, who is a truly fearless main character, Cleo who is a super supportive and amazing best friend, Trey - the sexy lawyer love interest and Yoda the cutest doggy sidekick.
Somewhere around 70-80% I really felt like this was going to be more of a cozy type of mystery because I wasn't exactly getting any spooky vibes, it's all all very standard- getting along with the ghosts of the manor. So I wouldn't say there's much to fear, it's all very charming actually- but with that, I found it lacking in the plot- there just wasn't much of anything happening at all.
Around 90% a lot starts to pop off, and while I wish I had a wee bit more closure in the first book - that or I had the second book handy because Roberts has set up the sequel perfectly with an abrupt cliffhanger that has me dying to know more.
I listened to an Audio ARC- I do want to say that the narrator Brittany Pressley did a spectacular job, was a pleasure to listen to and really brought the story to life.
⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆
Shaking things up with my current reads and starting this by the Queen Nora ⋆˚✿˖°
Many thanks to NetGalley, Nora Roberts and Macmillan Audio for the Audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆
This ARC just popped up in my inbox-
I'm having a hard time trying to rate this- I'm going to settle on 3.5 stars for now.
Inheritance, the first book of The Lost Bride trilogy starts in 1806 at Astrid Poole's wedding day. As she sits down in her bridal gown, overwhelmed with happiness, she is murdered, and her wedding ring is torn from her finger.
Flash forward in present day, graphic designer Sonya MacTavish is shocked and surprised when she walks into the home she shares with her fiancé to find him in the act of having an affair. She quickly calls off the wedding and breaks off the engagement.
Shortly after, she finds out that her late father had a twin brother that he never knew existed. Sonya's newly discovered uncle, Collin Poole, has died and left her almost everything, including a Victorian manor in Maine. His will stipulates that she must live in the house for at least three years. Now newly single after her broken engagement, Sonya agrees to move to the small coastal town and into the manor home.
As Sonya settles into her new life and home, she starts noticing small things, shadowy figures in windows, things being moved when she is sure she left them in another place. Music that turns on by itself. Fires being lit on their own.
It soon becomes clear to Sonya that not only has she inherited a gorgeous and sprawling manor home, but a centuries old curse that goes along with it.
I've been thinking about this book for a little while, trying to decide how I feel about it. I'm very new to Nora Roberts novels so I'm still a little unfamiliar with her style of writing.
I really enjoyed each and every one of the characters, they are so likable and well rounded- Roberts does such a fantastic job of breathing life into them and the writing flows so effortlessly, truly a captivating story teller.
Sonya, who is a truly fearless main character, Cleo who is a super supportive and amazing best friend, Trey - the sexy lawyer love interest and Yoda the cutest doggy sidekick.
Somewhere around 70-80% I really felt like this was going to be more of a cozy type of mystery because I wasn't exactly getting any spooky vibes, it's all all very standard- getting along with the ghosts of the manor. So I wouldn't say there's much to fear, it's all very charming actually- but with that, I found it lacking in the plot- there just wasn't much of anything happening at all.
Around 90% a lot starts to pop off, and while I wish I had a wee bit more closure in the first book - that or I had the second book handy because Roberts has set up the sequel perfectly with an abrupt cliffhanger that has me dying to know more.
I listened to an Audio ARC- I do want to say that the narrator Brittany Pressley did a spectacular job, was a pleasure to listen to and really brought the story to life.
⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆
Shaking things up with my current reads and starting this by the Queen Nora ⋆˚✿˖°
Many thanks to NetGalley, Nora Roberts and Macmillan Audio for the Audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆
This ARC just popped up in my inbox-
October 28, 2023
4,5 stars
This was a really fantastic beginning to a wonderfully spooky romance. A perfect October read if you ask me!!
I've read some of the author's other trilogies in the past, her spooky, witchy, and ghostly ones, but I wasn't sure what to expect, since the author changed the way her trilogies are structured.
Inheritance is the beginning of a trilogy that is one continuous story, at least that's how it looks to me. And I must say it works!! The author gives the romantic relationships time to develop, the overall story to unfold in a timeframe that makes sense, since the backstory covers centuries.
The story grabbed me from the very beginning. Not just because it featured a beautiful old mansion with some very interesting inhabitants, but also because of the just wonderfully likeable characters. And the way friendships are being put in the foreground and celebrated.
Loved the camaraderie, the support, and most of all the group dynamic in this book.
The story has all the signature style and feel good moments I'm used to get from this author. The group getting together to work on problems, brainstorming, enjoying a dinner together and working on projects. It's so relatable. And also a joy to see this group of amazing characters enjoying each others company.
The sequel is going to go to the top of my 2024 reading list - can't wait for its release!
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
This was a really fantastic beginning to a wonderfully spooky romance. A perfect October read if you ask me!!
I've read some of the author's other trilogies in the past, her spooky, witchy, and ghostly ones, but I wasn't sure what to expect, since the author changed the way her trilogies are structured.
Inheritance is the beginning of a trilogy that is one continuous story, at least that's how it looks to me. And I must say it works!! The author gives the romantic relationships time to develop, the overall story to unfold in a timeframe that makes sense, since the backstory covers centuries.
The story grabbed me from the very beginning. Not just because it featured a beautiful old mansion with some very interesting inhabitants, but also because of the just wonderfully likeable characters. And the way friendships are being put in the foreground and celebrated.
Loved the camaraderie, the support, and most of all the group dynamic in this book.
The story has all the signature style and feel good moments I'm used to get from this author. The group getting together to work on problems, brainstorming, enjoying a dinner together and working on projects. It's so relatable. And also a joy to see this group of amazing characters enjoying each others company.
The sequel is going to go to the top of my 2024 reading list - can't wait for its release!
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
December 12, 2023
I was utterly spellbound!! Roberts checked all the boxes: a multi-generational tragedy in a haunted mansion, a supernatural mystery, and well-paced, clever writing; the atmosphere pulled me right in from the start; I felt like I was right there with the main characters in Lost Bride Manor. I could see the characters in my mind's eye; Roberts created well-drawn characters, and I enjoyed the sisterhood bond between Sonya and Cleo. It was refreshing to see two creative, independent, strong women I wanted to be their friend. In a small town, Poole’s Bay, Maine: That’s how to write a cliffhanger! I can’t wait to see what awaits Sonya and Owen on the other side. I paired the book with the audiobook, narrated by Brittney Pressley, who did a fabulous job describing and bringing the characters to life, building the tension and suspense and making it palpable at times. I got chills down my spine.
Also only in the audiobook Nora Roberts explains her experience with spirits and talks of her grandmother and what inspired her to write Inheritance The Lost Bride Trilogy.
Full RTC…. I need to sort out my thoughts. I just finished reading it and loved it!! My mind is racing and fully blown by the ending.
Also only in the audiobook Nora Roberts explains her experience with spirits and talks of her grandmother and what inspired her to write Inheritance The Lost Bride Trilogy.
Full RTC…. I need to sort out my thoughts. I just finished reading it and loved it!! My mind is racing and fully blown by the ending.
November 21, 2023
Inheritance by Nora Roberts
The Lost Bride Trilogy, #1. Paranormal romance. Cliffhanger. Multiple timelines as historical bride experiences at death are played out.
Sonya MacTavish is stunned to learn that she has inherited a house from a relative no one knew existed. Given her recent problems with an ex finance, she accepts the inheritance and opportunity to move into the sprawling Victorian manor on the Maine coastline. And finds the talk about ghosts isn’t just local lore.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook copy and an audiobook. The narration is done by Brittany Pressley who does a marvelous job with distinctive voices for several different characters. This narrator has a significant back catalogue and this is the first for this author.
Emotions are clearly heard in the performance making the audiobook suspenseful and appealing. The performance also makes the story easy to follow as date changes with the appropriate timing, and hard hits on the years.
The storytelling is immediately engaging and gripping. The characters gain depth as the story progresses and we learn the history of the brides and the house. Just a little chilling with each ghost that appears although most seem to be friendly and welcoming. But not all.
Cliffhanger. Not even resolving a romance. There is no information on the author website yet as to when the remaining books will be published. I feel like shaking the cage doors! 📚
An author’s note is included that includes the inspiration for the story as well as some personal details. ❤️
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher Macmillan Audio.
The Lost Bride Trilogy, #1. Paranormal romance. Cliffhanger. Multiple timelines as historical bride experiences at death are played out.
Sonya MacTavish is stunned to learn that she has inherited a house from a relative no one knew existed. Given her recent problems with an ex finance, she accepts the inheritance and opportunity to move into the sprawling Victorian manor on the Maine coastline. And finds the talk about ghosts isn’t just local lore.
🎧 I alternated between an ebook copy and an audiobook. The narration is done by Brittany Pressley who does a marvelous job with distinctive voices for several different characters. This narrator has a significant back catalogue and this is the first for this author.
Emotions are clearly heard in the performance making the audiobook suspenseful and appealing. The performance also makes the story easy to follow as date changes with the appropriate timing, and hard hits on the years.
The storytelling is immediately engaging and gripping. The characters gain depth as the story progresses and we learn the history of the brides and the house. Just a little chilling with each ghost that appears although most seem to be friendly and welcoming. But not all.
Cliffhanger. Not even resolving a romance. There is no information on the author website yet as to when the remaining books will be published. I feel like shaking the cage doors! 📚
An author’s note is included that includes the inspiration for the story as well as some personal details. ❤️
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher Macmillan Audio.
November 16, 2023
I'm such a fan of Nora Roberts's trilogies and was delighted to learn that her new Lost Bride book is indeed the first in a trilogy in the fantasy/paranormal genre. Even better, it's the tale of a Victorian mansion haunted by deceased brides who were murdered on their wedding day which is indicative of an intriguing mystery.
INHERITANCE is the story of graphic designer Sonya MacTavish and the subsequent events that occur when she learns that her deceased father had a twin brother she never knew of, and that uncle has left her a haunted mansion on the Maine Coast with the stipulation she live there for at least three years. Sonya is at loose ends having just broken up with her cheating fiancé who's making her life miserable at their mutual place of employment. Making a life altering decision, she travels to Maine where she can work freelance, meets with Trey the young lawyer handling the execution of her uncle's Last Will & Testament, and immediately falls in love with the stunning mansion even with all the strange occurrences. Trey is upfront about the house's history of dead brides and ghosts, but Sonya feels like she's finally found her place in the world and moves in. To say that things go bump in the night is an understatement, but Sonya takes it all in stride until she meets the one malevolent spirit who's tries to drive her away. By this point, she's made new friends, garnished new business and maybe, just maybe, found new love so she sets out to solve the puzzle of the missing brides and hopefully help the bride spirits cross over. Who were the brides? How did they die? Can she break the spell cast over the next bride before it's too late?
Nora Roberts signature style of writing is evident in INHERITANCE with well-developed characters, an intriguing plot line and mystery to be solved. The gothic setting with a haunted mansion harboring spirits and years of secrets takes on a lead role like another character as tension builds with the escalation of the fury of the bad spirit. Sonya is a strong, reliable female lead, and support characters like Trey and best friend Cleo round out a great cast. The tone is eerie, and the pace increases steadily as Sonya draws closer to uncovering the truth of the past murders. While I enjoyed Sonya and Trey as a couple, their mutual attraction falls a bit flat in my opinion, but I'm thinking that will be rectified in books two and three. Being the first book of a trilogy, one can expect that this book ends on a cliffhanger, but I wasn't prepared for how huge a cliffhanger it would be as it literally stops in the middle of a major event leaving readers clamoring for the next book.
INHERITANCE is an intriguing, highly atmospheric fantasy mystery that's impossible to put down. Roberts's creativity in plot lines never ceases to amaze me as does the inclusion of a strong, tenacious female lead interacting with and supporting other females. The author is a master at incorporating past history of characters, their ancestors and setting in rendering a unique, highly entertaining mystery complete with ghosts and spirits and things that go bump in the night. I can't wait to see where the author takes these characters in the next two books of the Lost Brides trilogy. Highly recommended to fans of Roberts and readers who enjoy the fantasy genre.
3.5 Stars. Many thanks to St. Martins Press for an arc of this title which is scheduled for release on Nov. 21, 2023. All opinions expressed are my own. This review is available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
INHERITANCE is the story of graphic designer Sonya MacTavish and the subsequent events that occur when she learns that her deceased father had a twin brother she never knew of, and that uncle has left her a haunted mansion on the Maine Coast with the stipulation she live there for at least three years. Sonya is at loose ends having just broken up with her cheating fiancé who's making her life miserable at their mutual place of employment. Making a life altering decision, she travels to Maine where she can work freelance, meets with Trey the young lawyer handling the execution of her uncle's Last Will & Testament, and immediately falls in love with the stunning mansion even with all the strange occurrences. Trey is upfront about the house's history of dead brides and ghosts, but Sonya feels like she's finally found her place in the world and moves in. To say that things go bump in the night is an understatement, but Sonya takes it all in stride until she meets the one malevolent spirit who's tries to drive her away. By this point, she's made new friends, garnished new business and maybe, just maybe, found new love so she sets out to solve the puzzle of the missing brides and hopefully help the bride spirits cross over. Who were the brides? How did they die? Can she break the spell cast over the next bride before it's too late?
Nora Roberts signature style of writing is evident in INHERITANCE with well-developed characters, an intriguing plot line and mystery to be solved. The gothic setting with a haunted mansion harboring spirits and years of secrets takes on a lead role like another character as tension builds with the escalation of the fury of the bad spirit. Sonya is a strong, reliable female lead, and support characters like Trey and best friend Cleo round out a great cast. The tone is eerie, and the pace increases steadily as Sonya draws closer to uncovering the truth of the past murders. While I enjoyed Sonya and Trey as a couple, their mutual attraction falls a bit flat in my opinion, but I'm thinking that will be rectified in books two and three. Being the first book of a trilogy, one can expect that this book ends on a cliffhanger, but I wasn't prepared for how huge a cliffhanger it would be as it literally stops in the middle of a major event leaving readers clamoring for the next book.
INHERITANCE is an intriguing, highly atmospheric fantasy mystery that's impossible to put down. Roberts's creativity in plot lines never ceases to amaze me as does the inclusion of a strong, tenacious female lead interacting with and supporting other females. The author is a master at incorporating past history of characters, their ancestors and setting in rendering a unique, highly entertaining mystery complete with ghosts and spirits and things that go bump in the night. I can't wait to see where the author takes these characters in the next two books of the Lost Brides trilogy. Highly recommended to fans of Roberts and readers who enjoy the fantasy genre.
3.5 Stars. Many thanks to St. Martins Press for an arc of this title which is scheduled for release on Nov. 21, 2023. All opinions expressed are my own. This review is available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
November 11, 2023
Please note that I received this via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
This was not good. The beginning was interesting and it just got more and more boring. Can Roberts still spin a tale, yes. But this was just not it. It reminded me a lot of her "In the Garden" trilogy, mixed with a bit of "Inn Boonsboro" trilogy. I don't mind the magical realism she does, but I think the ending with the whole [redacted] just does not cause me to want to read more of this.
"Inheritance" starts off with 28 year old Sonya MacTavish thinking about how in a few short weeks she is going to be getting married. I don't want to do spoilers in this review. But things occur and then Sonya finds out that she inherited a mansion in Maine from her late father's twin brother (that he never knew he had). There's a lot of convoluted explanation about this, but just go with it. Sonya decides to make a fresh start in Maine at the mansion and finds out that it comes with a history and several ghosts.
The writing was okay, but after a while I just did not care about the plot. We keep getting thrust back into past timelines with a "bride" and how she's killed by someone/something. The first book is just Sonya and her best friend Cleo trying to figure out how the brides died and why. And then some very lukewarm romantic interests that pop in the story.
The flow was just pretty awful. After a while it just felt painful. I wish that Roberts had a left a few "brides" story on the cutting room floor. Also I just did not buy the romance between Sony and [redacted]. There was no heat there at all. I just felt like after a while I was reading a very boring romantic mystery/thriller/etc. that wasn't giving me enough romance.
The first book ends on a cliffhanger. If you get aggravated by reading cliffhangers, I suggest that you just borrow this from a library and or wait until book two comes out so that you can read them back to back maybe.
This was not good. The beginning was interesting and it just got more and more boring. Can Roberts still spin a tale, yes. But this was just not it. It reminded me a lot of her "In the Garden" trilogy, mixed with a bit of "Inn Boonsboro" trilogy. I don't mind the magical realism she does, but I think the ending with the whole [redacted] just does not cause me to want to read more of this.
"Inheritance" starts off with 28 year old Sonya MacTavish thinking about how in a few short weeks she is going to be getting married. I don't want to do spoilers in this review. But things occur and then Sonya finds out that she inherited a mansion in Maine from her late father's twin brother (that he never knew he had). There's a lot of convoluted explanation about this, but just go with it. Sonya decides to make a fresh start in Maine at the mansion and finds out that it comes with a history and several ghosts.
The writing was okay, but after a while I just did not care about the plot. We keep getting thrust back into past timelines with a "bride" and how she's killed by someone/something. The first book is just Sonya and her best friend Cleo trying to figure out how the brides died and why. And then some very lukewarm romantic interests that pop in the story.
The flow was just pretty awful. After a while it just felt painful. I wish that Roberts had a left a few "brides" story on the cutting room floor. Also I just did not buy the romance between Sony and [redacted]. There was no heat there at all. I just felt like after a while I was reading a very boring romantic mystery/thriller/etc. that wasn't giving me enough romance.
The first book ends on a cliffhanger. If you get aggravated by reading cliffhangers, I suggest that you just borrow this from a library and or wait until book two comes out so that you can read them back to back maybe.
December 1, 2023
"Houses need people, don't you think? Or they're just walls."
°•*⁀➷
Such classic Nora Roberts writing in this book. From the first page to the last I could feel her signature of love through family and friendship, I could feel the joy writing has always brought her. It's been so long since her romance plot has taken a backseat, and I forgot how much I enjoyed when the suspenseful side of her writing pops out.
I was on the edge of my seat for so much of this, it was hard to put down. Hard to not look over my shoulder. I love a good ghost story, but I love a Nora ghost story more. The betrayal, the clues, the ticking clock, the kindness and love in a house haunted by memories... it was stunning to be a part of. She constantly brings to life stories of fiction and makes them feel so real with the mundane activities that are constantly inside of them. To go from a ghost DJ to the simplicity of cleaning a house, making it into a home. Recipes, and the making of them.
I get so lost in the reality of it all, I find such joy in it.
When you've read as many Nora books as I have, you tend to find patterns, small things that never change. One thing I have always wished for from Nora is a change in the male attitude. They tend to be forward, and domineering, which often works in a romance novel for so many reasons. I always wanted something softer, something more realistic, something more kind.
I got that and more in Trey. He was sweet in a believable and recognizable way. Special because he gives space, but understanding in a way that he'll be there if you call for no reason other than you're scared. I loved getting to know him through Sonya, I loved that there was texting. Real texting. The kind that isn't just a passing thought, but a conversation that never ends.
Nora worked the younger generation into this so well that I forgot, as I often do, that she's been doing this longer than some of the newer romance authors have been alive. She keeps up with trends, and she writes stories like this. The ones I never want to end.
The only reason this was four instead of five stars was because it was so much exposition. I can't wait to see what happens next, especially after such an epic ending. She's really starting to catch onto cliff hangers and how we readers love them.
- Paige
°•*⁀➷
Such classic Nora Roberts writing in this book. From the first page to the last I could feel her signature of love through family and friendship, I could feel the joy writing has always brought her. It's been so long since her romance plot has taken a backseat, and I forgot how much I enjoyed when the suspenseful side of her writing pops out.
I was on the edge of my seat for so much of this, it was hard to put down. Hard to not look over my shoulder. I love a good ghost story, but I love a Nora ghost story more. The betrayal, the clues, the ticking clock, the kindness and love in a house haunted by memories... it was stunning to be a part of. She constantly brings to life stories of fiction and makes them feel so real with the mundane activities that are constantly inside of them. To go from a ghost DJ to the simplicity of cleaning a house, making it into a home. Recipes, and the making of them.
I get so lost in the reality of it all, I find such joy in it.
When you've read as many Nora books as I have, you tend to find patterns, small things that never change. One thing I have always wished for from Nora is a change in the male attitude. They tend to be forward, and domineering, which often works in a romance novel for so many reasons. I always wanted something softer, something more realistic, something more kind.
I got that and more in Trey. He was sweet in a believable and recognizable way. Special because he gives space, but understanding in a way that he'll be there if you call for no reason other than you're scared. I loved getting to know him through Sonya, I loved that there was texting. Real texting. The kind that isn't just a passing thought, but a conversation that never ends.
Nora worked the younger generation into this so well that I forgot, as I often do, that she's been doing this longer than some of the newer romance authors have been alive. She keeps up with trends, and she writes stories like this. The ones I never want to end.
The only reason this was four instead of five stars was because it was so much exposition. I can't wait to see what happens next, especially after such an epic ending. She's really starting to catch onto cliff hangers and how we readers love them.
- Paige
August 7, 2023
Omg… super trippy, super fabulous!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have read similar stories over the past few years but was looking forward to the Roberts twist and it does not disappoint.
The plot and storyline are addicting. I had a tough time putting it down, and frankly, absorbed this baby as fast as I could!
The creative way the author blends in the family history, the unique mystery surrounding the family home, and the ancestors are imaginative and intriguing. I love that she does not try to make this into a horror or necessarily a scary story, but more thriller style. Roberts adds wit and humor to lighten it up a bit too.
The characters are a wonderful blend that brings interest and a growing romance is a sweet diversion from the activities of the day and night.
Since this is book one of a trilogy, expect the cliffhanger, and she definitely leaves us hanging. Ack! Having to wait for the next installment is always a drag, but Inheritance is a fabulous read full of ghost stories, creepy dreams, and eeriness that only Roberts and her unique gift of storytelling can deliver.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/inheritance-...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have read similar stories over the past few years but was looking forward to the Roberts twist and it does not disappoint.
The plot and storyline are addicting. I had a tough time putting it down, and frankly, absorbed this baby as fast as I could!
The creative way the author blends in the family history, the unique mystery surrounding the family home, and the ancestors are imaginative and intriguing. I love that she does not try to make this into a horror or necessarily a scary story, but more thriller style. Roberts adds wit and humor to lighten it up a bit too.
The characters are a wonderful blend that brings interest and a growing romance is a sweet diversion from the activities of the day and night.
Since this is book one of a trilogy, expect the cliffhanger, and she definitely leaves us hanging. Ack! Having to wait for the next installment is always a drag, but Inheritance is a fabulous read full of ghost stories, creepy dreams, and eeriness that only Roberts and her unique gift of storytelling can deliver.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/inheritance-...
November 26, 2023
Sonya MacTavish's world was suddenly turned upside down when she caught her soon-to-be husband cheating, leaving her heart shattered. She decided to start afresh by quitting her job and leaving the past behind. Fortunately, she inherited a stunning Victorian house from her uncle soon after, which was the perfect opportunity to start fresh. However, Sonya soon began to notice strange occurrences in the house, which made her wonder if it was haunted. She also questioned why her uncle had left the house to her.
I initially enjoyed the beginning of the story, but as it continued, I found it to be quite average. The plot lacked excitement. It didn't have the impact I was hoping for and some parts became repetitive. Overall, the story had potential however, it fell short of my expectations.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Nora Roberts, and Macmillan Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
I initially enjoyed the beginning of the story, but as it continued, I found it to be quite average. The plot lacked excitement. It didn't have the impact I was hoping for and some parts became repetitive. Overall, the story had potential however, it fell short of my expectations.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Nora Roberts, and Macmillan Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
November 27, 2023
Over the years, I’ve enjoyed a number of trilogies and quartets by the super-talented Nora Roberts. Based on Inheritance, book one of her new Lost Bride Trilogy, this one is going to be up there with my other favorites. Roberts manages to write stories with supernatural elements that just seem so real/realistic/possible. I don’t know how she does it.
Sonya moves from Boston to a small town in Maine after breaking things off with her cheating fiancé. She has inherited a house from a relative she knew nothing of, and it’s haunted. For real. The extensive family history includes a lot of tragic deaths, all of new brides. Creepy! They even call the house Lost Bride Manor. Most of the ghosts are pretty nice, even helpful. One of them makes up her bed and cleans up after Sonya, which Sonya found off-putting at first and then started to really appreciate! Another one plays songs on Sonya’s iPad with appropriate themes at several points in the story. I *loved* that! There’s even a little boy who teaches her dog to do tricks. Of course, there’s one really malevolent one, and she is pretty scary.
Even though the book is fairly long at 432 pages (or 14 hours of audio), it never felt long. Since this is the start of a trilogy, I didn’t expect things to get all wrapped up neatly at the end, but I was a bit shocked at the major cliffhanger Inheritance ended on. So if you hate cliffhanger endings, you may have to wait for book two. But that would be a shame because Inheritance is a great story.
I bounced between the audiobook and the ebook for this title, which was very convenient. The audiobook was beautifully narrated by Brittany Pressley, who did a wonderful job with all the voices and accents.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book and to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.
Sonya moves from Boston to a small town in Maine after breaking things off with her cheating fiancé. She has inherited a house from a relative she knew nothing of, and it’s haunted. For real. The extensive family history includes a lot of tragic deaths, all of new brides. Creepy! They even call the house Lost Bride Manor. Most of the ghosts are pretty nice, even helpful. One of them makes up her bed and cleans up after Sonya, which Sonya found off-putting at first and then started to really appreciate! Another one plays songs on Sonya’s iPad with appropriate themes at several points in the story. I *loved* that! There’s even a little boy who teaches her dog to do tricks. Of course, there’s one really malevolent one, and she is pretty scary.
Even though the book is fairly long at 432 pages (or 14 hours of audio), it never felt long. Since this is the start of a trilogy, I didn’t expect things to get all wrapped up neatly at the end, but I was a bit shocked at the major cliffhanger Inheritance ended on. So if you hate cliffhanger endings, you may have to wait for book two. But that would be a shame because Inheritance is a great story.
I bounced between the audiobook and the ebook for this title, which was very convenient. The audiobook was beautifully narrated by Brittany Pressley, who did a wonderful job with all the voices and accents.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book and to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.
November 21, 2023
Ooooh! This one has a gothic vibe to it, and I am soooo intrigued. But sadly, this isn't a gothic. But it is a ghost story with some really talented and helpful ghost and one really nasty witch ghost. To say that the Lost Bride Manor is haunted would be a gross understatement. I'd say it is overrun with the undeparted. I don't care for the vampire/werewolf paranormal, but I do like a good ghost tale and this one is very good. I just have two problems with this book. The first is NR's use of sentence fragments like we are supposed to know what she means. I found that annoying. The second is that I feel she keeps her readers at an emotional distance from the characters, especially the hero and heroine. I didn't feel a real connection there and I didn't feel the terror with some of the things that happened I thought I should have. Since this is the first book of the trilogy it did a great job of setting up the story, but resolved nothing, which was disappointing. It also ended with a cliffhanger, also disappointing.
Sonya MacTavish, a successful graphic designer, has had her world rocked. She caught her fiancé in bed with her cousin and since she worked in the same company, awkward, she decided to go to freelance work. On closer inspection of her emotions, the fiancé was no big loss, they didn't seem to want the same things. Then her world is rocked again with a visit from an attorney from Maine which changed everything she thought she knew about her father's family and made her an heiress.
Since Boston held bad memories and a new start was promised, Sonya is off to Poole's Bay, Maine and the Lost Bride's Manor with a host of ghostly inhabitants. Now Sonya will have to unravel the family mystery and attempt to end the family curse. Lucky for her she will have help because she has surrounded herself with people who support her and want to see her stay in Poole's Bay. That includes, her best friend, Cleo, who moved from Boston to be with her. The son of the estate attorney, also an attorney, Trey, who finds himself drawn to her strength. Her rescue dog, Yoda, who is small but fearless. With a team like that how can she not stay and fight the evil witch ghost who has plagued her family for generations.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Sonya MacTavish, a successful graphic designer, has had her world rocked. She caught her fiancé in bed with her cousin and since she worked in the same company, awkward, she decided to go to freelance work. On closer inspection of her emotions, the fiancé was no big loss, they didn't seem to want the same things. Then her world is rocked again with a visit from an attorney from Maine which changed everything she thought she knew about her father's family and made her an heiress.
Since Boston held bad memories and a new start was promised, Sonya is off to Poole's Bay, Maine and the Lost Bride's Manor with a host of ghostly inhabitants. Now Sonya will have to unravel the family mystery and attempt to end the family curse. Lucky for her she will have help because she has surrounded herself with people who support her and want to see her stay in Poole's Bay. That includes, her best friend, Cleo, who moved from Boston to be with her. The son of the estate attorney, also an attorney, Trey, who finds himself drawn to her strength. Her rescue dog, Yoda, who is small but fearless. With a team like that how can she not stay and fight the evil witch ghost who has plagued her family for generations.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
October 9, 2023
Nora Roberts is a very talented and prolific author with over 225 romance books under her belt as both Nora Roberts and J.D. Robb. Absolutely amazing! This book is awesome!
Description:
1806: Astrid Poole sits in her bridal clothes, overwhelmed with happiness. But before her marriage can be consummated, she is murdered, and the circle of gold torn from her finger. Her last words are a promise to Collin never to leave him…
Graphic designer Sonya MacTavish is stunned to learn that her late father had a twin he never knew about―and that her newly discovered uncle, Collin Poole, has left her almost everything he owned, including a majestic Victorian house on the Maine coast, which the will stipulates she must live in it for at least three years. Her engagement recently broken, she sets off to find out why the boys were separated at birth―and why it was all kept secret until a genealogy website brought it to light.
Trey, the young lawyer who greets her at the sprawling clifftop manor, notes Sonya’s unease―and acknowledges that yes, the place is haunted…but just a little. Sure enough, Sonya finds objects moved and music playing out of nowhere. She sees a painting by her father inexplicably hanging in her deceased uncle’s office, and a portrait of a woman named Astrid, whom the lawyer refers to as “the first lost bride.” It’s becoming clear that Sonya has inherited far more than a house. She has inherited a centuries-old curse, and a puzzle to be solved if there is any hope of breaking it…
My Thoughts:
The characters are perfect for their parts in this one. The ghosts have distinct personalities. The plot is exciting and moves at a fast pace. I couldn't put the book down. The brides are tragic, each and every one. I liked that the deceased brides are trying to help Sonia solve the mystery. Sonia, the lead heroine is both courageous and relatable. I enjoyed her friendship with her best friend Cleo. The romance was enjoyable, but I feel it's just getting started. I have to admit to being devestated at the end - there really is no end because it is a definite cliffhanger. I thought maybe I had an issue with my download and was missing a chapter or two, but no - it was just cut off and I was so disappointed I couldn't find out what happened. I sure hope I can remember the story when the second book comes out and that I don't miss it. I really should have learned by now not to read trilogies until all the books are available, but I just can't resist. Waiting impatiently for the next installment in the series. Highly recommended - don't miss this one!
Thanks to St. Martin's Press through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on November 21, 2023.
Description:
1806: Astrid Poole sits in her bridal clothes, overwhelmed with happiness. But before her marriage can be consummated, she is murdered, and the circle of gold torn from her finger. Her last words are a promise to Collin never to leave him…
Graphic designer Sonya MacTavish is stunned to learn that her late father had a twin he never knew about―and that her newly discovered uncle, Collin Poole, has left her almost everything he owned, including a majestic Victorian house on the Maine coast, which the will stipulates she must live in it for at least three years. Her engagement recently broken, she sets off to find out why the boys were separated at birth―and why it was all kept secret until a genealogy website brought it to light.
Trey, the young lawyer who greets her at the sprawling clifftop manor, notes Sonya’s unease―and acknowledges that yes, the place is haunted…but just a little. Sure enough, Sonya finds objects moved and music playing out of nowhere. She sees a painting by her father inexplicably hanging in her deceased uncle’s office, and a portrait of a woman named Astrid, whom the lawyer refers to as “the first lost bride.” It’s becoming clear that Sonya has inherited far more than a house. She has inherited a centuries-old curse, and a puzzle to be solved if there is any hope of breaking it…
My Thoughts:
The characters are perfect for their parts in this one. The ghosts have distinct personalities. The plot is exciting and moves at a fast pace. I couldn't put the book down. The brides are tragic, each and every one. I liked that the deceased brides are trying to help Sonia solve the mystery. Sonia, the lead heroine is both courageous and relatable. I enjoyed her friendship with her best friend Cleo. The romance was enjoyable, but I feel it's just getting started. I have to admit to being devestated at the end - there really is no end because it is a definite cliffhanger. I thought maybe I had an issue with my download and was missing a chapter or two, but no - it was just cut off and I was so disappointed I couldn't find out what happened. I sure hope I can remember the story when the second book comes out and that I don't miss it. I really should have learned by now not to read trilogies until all the books are available, but I just can't resist. Waiting impatiently for the next installment in the series. Highly recommended - don't miss this one!
Thanks to St. Martin's Press through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on November 21, 2023.
November 20, 2023
I absolutely love curling up with Roberts’s paranormal trilogies. While her books follow a formula, she brings fresh stories and new couples to hook me every time. In Inheritance we meet Boston graphic designer, Sonya MacTavish, whose world turns upside down and sideways again. I will let you discover what happens to her, because things get better when she learns her late father had a twin and he’s left her a Victorian house on the Maine coast! Why doesn’t this happen to me?
Of course, there are rules. She needs to live in residence for at least three years, but the estate is well provided for. Did I mention the house is haunted? I loved the mansion and all that we discovered inside. Well, all but what is on the third floor creating a fuss.
The suspenseful story about the Poole Bride curse, and the haunting happens alone, made me giddy and eager to read more. Then we have a dashing lawyer and his a loveable dog, a charming coastal town and a bestie who will pick up and move with you. The ghosts…. Let me tell you I need a few of them to pack their bags and come here. I promise to treat them well.
I loved the story from beginning to end and cannot wait to see how Sonya and her friends will break the curse. Of course, Roberts left off with a cliffhanger that has me counting the days until next November.
Fans of paranormal romance, ghosts, curses and swoon-worthy good guy romances will want to scoop this up. Seriously, grab some hot cocoa, start a fire and enjoy!
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Of course, there are rules. She needs to live in residence for at least three years, but the estate is well provided for. Did I mention the house is haunted? I loved the mansion and all that we discovered inside. Well, all but what is on the third floor creating a fuss.
The suspenseful story about the Poole Bride curse, and the haunting happens alone, made me giddy and eager to read more. Then we have a dashing lawyer and his a loveable dog, a charming coastal town and a bestie who will pick up and move with you. The ghosts…. Let me tell you I need a few of them to pack their bags and come here. I promise to treat them well.
I loved the story from beginning to end and cannot wait to see how Sonya and her friends will break the curse. Of course, Roberts left off with a cliffhanger that has me counting the days until next November.
Fans of paranormal romance, ghosts, curses and swoon-worthy good guy romances will want to scoop this up. Seriously, grab some hot cocoa, start a fire and enjoy!
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
November 27, 2023
4.5 Stars
Loved Inheritance! Sonya’s story grabbed me from the start, with her ruined engagement, to how she came to inherit the historic mansion on the coast of Maine. It sounded so gorgeous, with its grand library, breathtaking views of the ocean and a widow’s walk! It’d be hard to refuse even with the ghosts that seem to inhabit the place. Sonya finds out there’s a tragic history, the brides in her family have died soon after marrying. A dark presence laid a curse down long ago that needs to be broken.
Nora Roberts weaved a captivating tale complete with characters to love and hate. Parts were spooky with unexplained happenings in the mansion, but Sonya had backup and support with her best friend, Cleo, her mother, and the hunky lawyer, Trey. They all are on board with investigating the past and eliminating any threat to the future.
The story stopped at an interesting part, and I was surprised. At first thought that maybe my copy was cut short, but then figured out it was a to-be-continued/cliffhanger sort of ending. I eagerly await the next installment!
Brittany Pressley, one of my favorite narrators, performed each character with a distinct voice, some with accents, and delivered with emotion that brought the characters to life! I completely recommend the audio version! I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
A copy was kindly provided by Macmillan Audio in exchange for an honest review.
Loved Inheritance! Sonya’s story grabbed me from the start, with her ruined engagement, to how she came to inherit the historic mansion on the coast of Maine. It sounded so gorgeous, with its grand library, breathtaking views of the ocean and a widow’s walk! It’d be hard to refuse even with the ghosts that seem to inhabit the place. Sonya finds out there’s a tragic history, the brides in her family have died soon after marrying. A dark presence laid a curse down long ago that needs to be broken.
Nora Roberts weaved a captivating tale complete with characters to love and hate. Parts were spooky with unexplained happenings in the mansion, but Sonya had backup and support with her best friend, Cleo, her mother, and the hunky lawyer, Trey. They all are on board with investigating the past and eliminating any threat to the future.
The story stopped at an interesting part, and I was surprised. At first thought that maybe my copy was cut short, but then figured out it was a to-be-continued/cliffhanger sort of ending. I eagerly await the next installment!
Brittany Pressley, one of my favorite narrators, performed each character with a distinct voice, some with accents, and delivered with emotion that brought the characters to life! I completely recommend the audio version! I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
A copy was kindly provided by Macmillan Audio in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2023
I'm a fan of Nora Roberts mystery and thriller novels so I was intrigued with the idea of reading a sci-fi /fantasy novel from her. That was a mistake.
The novel started out well enough and the paranormal events didn't bother me at first. But after a while, the ghost business started to get annoying. Especially when the pop music is suddenly being played through Sonya's (the main character) iPad and to which the music was to match the mood or situation Sonya was in. i.e. Pretty Woman being played after Sonya dons an outfit that made her look stunning. And the pop up music scenes kept repeating itself without an end in sight. It was cute at first, but then it just got too repetitive and "old."
I can't imagine how the narrative could be stretched out into a trilogy. And I don't intend to find out. A one star DNF at 54%
I received a DRC from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
The novel started out well enough and the paranormal events didn't bother me at first. But after a while, the ghost business started to get annoying. Especially when the pop music is suddenly being played through Sonya's (the main character) iPad and to which the music was to match the mood or situation Sonya was in. i.e. Pretty Woman being played after Sonya dons an outfit that made her look stunning. And the pop up music scenes kept repeating itself without an end in sight. It was cute at first, but then it just got too repetitive and "old."
I can't imagine how the narrative could be stretched out into a trilogy. And I don't intend to find out. A one star DNF at 54%
I received a DRC from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 30, 2023
Sonya has just ditched her cheating fiancé after catching him in bed with her cousin. Since they met at work, it is really awkward, especially when he starts lying and sabotaging her graphic design work. She gets an unexpected visit from a Maine attorney informing her that she has just inherited a seaside mansion in Maine and a lot of money, so she decides to relocate and go freelance. The home, which is definitely haunted, belonged to an uncle she never knew about. She is finding new clients, a new dog, and maybe a new man; one of the house spirits, however, seems really malevolent, but the others are friendly and helpful. This is the first book of a trilogy, so it ends abruptly--I look forward to the next volume, since I enjoyed the great characters, the music references, and the paranormal mystery. Four and a half stars. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
October 13, 2023
Sonya MacTavish is happy in her job and engaged to be married--until she walks in on her fiance and her cousin having sex in her bed. As her life's plans are in an uproar, she is hit with another bombshell. Her late father, who was adopted, had a twin, and that twin has left Sonya a gorgeous estate in Maine. The only stipulation is that she has to live there for three years. Sonya ultimately decides to move to the estate and start over her life and her career. But the house has a history of "lost brides" and many ghostly inhabitants. And at least one of them does not want Sonya there.
This was just a wonderful reading experience. The characters and the story drew me in right away. I was immediately transported to this haunted mansion and caught up in the legend of the lost brides. The spirits, some of them fun-loving and one of them definitely not, make this book unique. The distinct personalities of al the spirits are so well portrayed. My only slight critique is that the book ends on a cliffhanger. I hope Book 2 comes out soon because I want to read more of this story!
Nora Roberts has hit a homerun with this one, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys magical realism.
I received a free copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
This was just a wonderful reading experience. The characters and the story drew me in right away. I was immediately transported to this haunted mansion and caught up in the legend of the lost brides. The spirits, some of them fun-loving and one of them definitely not, make this book unique. The distinct personalities of al the spirits are so well portrayed. My only slight critique is that the book ends on a cliffhanger. I hope Book 2 comes out soon because I want to read more of this story!
Nora Roberts has hit a homerun with this one, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys magical realism.
I received a free copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
August 13, 2023
Wow! First- and remind yourself as you read The Inheritance by Nora Roberts, that this is part one of a series. Remind you sled!
Twisty plot, creative, magic and a haunted mansion with multiple ghosts! Highly recommend!
Twisty plot, creative, magic and a haunted mansion with multiple ghosts! Highly recommend!
November 27, 2023
What a great book!
The 1st book in The Lost Bride trilogy that contains historical fiction, historical thriller, contemporary fiction, mystery and fantasy.
Main character Sonya discovers that she has inherited a 200 yr old mansion from a relative she didn't know existed. In order for the mansion to become hers she is required to live in it for a few years. Sonya and the ghosts, what fun!
Wonderful characters throughout, both living and dead.
Although we are left with quite the cliff hangar the story is spellbinding and fun.
Nora Roberts has done it again and the narration by Brittany Presley is superb!
Highly Recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an arc of this audiobook.
The 1st book in The Lost Bride trilogy that contains historical fiction, historical thriller, contemporary fiction, mystery and fantasy.
Main character Sonya discovers that she has inherited a 200 yr old mansion from a relative she didn't know existed. In order for the mansion to become hers she is required to live in it for a few years. Sonya and the ghosts, what fun!
Wonderful characters throughout, both living and dead.
Although we are left with quite the cliff hangar the story is spellbinding and fun.
Nora Roberts has done it again and the narration by Brittany Presley is superb!
Highly Recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an arc of this audiobook.
July 9, 2023
Bring me back to the old Nora books that I fall in love so many years ago.
Full rtc
NetGalley Arc
Full rtc
NetGalley Arc
November 22, 2023
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Inheritance, the first book of the Lost Bride's Trilogy is right up my ally. It is a mashup of romance, suspense, some paranormal activity and a mystery two centuries in the making. In a glorious gothic mansion that just oozes "I'm haunted vibes", the story starts to take shape on the curse that lives in this house and all the people it has affected. Our heroine is the last person in a family line who has a chance to break the curse and not end up dead herself.
Sonya was planning her wedding until she found her fiancé in bed with another woman. Her future plans may have been destroyed and everything she was working for thrown up in the air when a bombshell shows up in the form of an inheritance from an uncle she never knew she had. Her father's twin has passed away and left her a gorgeous historical house next to the sea. The catch? Well, there are a few. She must live in the house for three years to fully inherit, it might be a teensy bit haunted and Sonya is the last of her line with a chance to break the curse.
I enjoyed this story. It takes some time to develop as we are getting everything set up for the trilogy. Discovering the history of the house and some of the ghosts in it fascinated me. I also loved how Sonya finally came to accept the haunting; she is a practical person and in her normal world the idea was ridiculous. But there are just some things that cannot be denied and the entities in the house are one of them. The romance is cute as Sonya and the son of the lawyer handling her inheritance, Trey, spend some time together and feel those first inklings of something between them. Over the course of a few months, they have some time to settle into the beginnings of their relationship.
There are some other great characters in this sleepy little town. I love the small town feel of this gothic style romance. Cleo was so much fun; she has been Sonya's best friend for such a long time but unlike the straight laced Sonya, Cleo feels the haunting in the house immediately and is enchanted by it. She is ready to join her friend in this new experience as Sonya wanders through the discovery of details of the curse that has affected so many generations of this family.
The town, the burgeoning loves and of course, the ghost mystery, drew me in and as the story really started to pick up speed towards the end I was on the edge of my seat. The disappointment was only that this installment of the story was coming to an end and I would have to wait with the rest of the readers for what comes next as the entire trilogy looks devoted to solving this mystery. I think we may get a few more romances than just Sonya and Trey as things look promising for Cleo in the love department too. I for one am super excited with that ending to see what else Nora Roberts has in store for us. I will definitely be looking into some of her catalog for the other works she has in the fantasy romance vein.
Narration:
Brittany Pressley is a prolific narrator with over 500 titles under her belt and it shows. She has cadence, volume, emotion and diction down pat. All of the characters are distinct and all of them feel so real. I know I enjoy when a narrator helps bring the characters to life. Brittany did a great job and I found myself drawn into every word of the story. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Inheritance, the first book of the Lost Bride's Trilogy is right up my ally. It is a mashup of romance, suspense, some paranormal activity and a mystery two centuries in the making. In a glorious gothic mansion that just oozes "I'm haunted vibes", the story starts to take shape on the curse that lives in this house and all the people it has affected. Our heroine is the last person in a family line who has a chance to break the curse and not end up dead herself.
Sonya was planning her wedding until she found her fiancé in bed with another woman. Her future plans may have been destroyed and everything she was working for thrown up in the air when a bombshell shows up in the form of an inheritance from an uncle she never knew she had. Her father's twin has passed away and left her a gorgeous historical house next to the sea. The catch? Well, there are a few. She must live in the house for three years to fully inherit, it might be a teensy bit haunted and Sonya is the last of her line with a chance to break the curse.
I enjoyed this story. It takes some time to develop as we are getting everything set up for the trilogy. Discovering the history of the house and some of the ghosts in it fascinated me. I also loved how Sonya finally came to accept the haunting; she is a practical person and in her normal world the idea was ridiculous. But there are just some things that cannot be denied and the entities in the house are one of them. The romance is cute as Sonya and the son of the lawyer handling her inheritance, Trey, spend some time together and feel those first inklings of something between them. Over the course of a few months, they have some time to settle into the beginnings of their relationship.
There are some other great characters in this sleepy little town. I love the small town feel of this gothic style romance. Cleo was so much fun; she has been Sonya's best friend for such a long time but unlike the straight laced Sonya, Cleo feels the haunting in the house immediately and is enchanted by it. She is ready to join her friend in this new experience as Sonya wanders through the discovery of details of the curse that has affected so many generations of this family.
The town, the burgeoning loves and of course, the ghost mystery, drew me in and as the story really started to pick up speed towards the end I was on the edge of my seat. The disappointment was only that this installment of the story was coming to an end and I would have to wait with the rest of the readers for what comes next as the entire trilogy looks devoted to solving this mystery. I think we may get a few more romances than just Sonya and Trey as things look promising for Cleo in the love department too. I for one am super excited with that ending to see what else Nora Roberts has in store for us. I will definitely be looking into some of her catalog for the other works she has in the fantasy romance vein.
Narration:
Brittany Pressley is a prolific narrator with over 500 titles under her belt and it shows. She has cadence, volume, emotion and diction down pat. All of the characters are distinct and all of them feel so real. I know I enjoy when a narrator helps bring the characters to life. Brittany did a great job and I found myself drawn into every word of the story. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
December 2, 2023
A woman inherits a haunted mansion, mired by a generational curse she’s intent to break.
Sonya MacTavish cancels her wedding after finding her fiancé in bed with another woman. Reeling from the betrayal, a lawyer makes an unexpected offer at a new beginning in a small coastal town in Maine, where she’s inherited a mansion from family she didn’t know existed.
The mansion, however, is haunted by generations of women in her family. Deemed the lost brides, seven women since 1806 have been killed on their wedding day, succumbed to a powerful curse that claims a bride per generation. While the brides enliven the house for the better, the ghost of the angry witch lurks with vengeance, trying to scare Sonya away.
Memories of how each bride died haunt Sonya’s dreams, plaguing her with an urgency to break the decades-old curse without knowing how. Ferreting clues from her dreams, and with her group of friends, Sonya delves into a world of ghosts, intent to free them all.
INHERITANCE is quintessential Nora Roberts—a story shaped by a strong woman supported by an unflappable community of friends and family. Robert’s quick-paced dialogue pulls you in, as well-drawn characters take shape in an otherworldly narrative that’s engrossing from the start. Humor, friendship, and a budding romance bring levity to the sinister machinations at play in this exciting series starter. I’m already clamoring for the next book!
Sonya MacTavish cancels her wedding after finding her fiancé in bed with another woman. Reeling from the betrayal, a lawyer makes an unexpected offer at a new beginning in a small coastal town in Maine, where she’s inherited a mansion from family she didn’t know existed.
The mansion, however, is haunted by generations of women in her family. Deemed the lost brides, seven women since 1806 have been killed on their wedding day, succumbed to a powerful curse that claims a bride per generation. While the brides enliven the house for the better, the ghost of the angry witch lurks with vengeance, trying to scare Sonya away.
Memories of how each bride died haunt Sonya’s dreams, plaguing her with an urgency to break the decades-old curse without knowing how. Ferreting clues from her dreams, and with her group of friends, Sonya delves into a world of ghosts, intent to free them all.
INHERITANCE is quintessential Nora Roberts—a story shaped by a strong woman supported by an unflappable community of friends and family. Robert’s quick-paced dialogue pulls you in, as well-drawn characters take shape in an otherworldly narrative that’s engrossing from the start. Humor, friendship, and a budding romance bring levity to the sinister machinations at play in this exciting series starter. I’m already clamoring for the next book!
November 27, 2023
WOW! I LOVED THIS BOOK1
This doesn't really surprise me since I've been a fan of hers for a very long time. But I wasn't expecting this.
Sonya discovers her late father had a twin brother that none of them knew about. She is the only descendant and is set to inherit a lot. However she must move to the home of her ancestors in order that to happen. What she gets is a haunted Victorian estate.
Creepy, ghostly and just plain fun. Certain aspects are a bit scary, but the funny parts make up for any fright.
Would make a great spooky Halloween read.
The only down side of this book is waiting for the next two books in the trilogy.
Fantastic work Nora Roberts.
Thanks to netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the arc.
This doesn't really surprise me since I've been a fan of hers for a very long time. But I wasn't expecting this.
Sonya discovers her late father had a twin brother that none of them knew about. She is the only descendant and is set to inherit a lot. However she must move to the home of her ancestors in order that to happen. What she gets is a haunted Victorian estate.
Creepy, ghostly and just plain fun. Certain aspects are a bit scary, but the funny parts make up for any fright.
Would make a great spooky Halloween read.
The only down side of this book is waiting for the next two books in the trilogy.
Fantastic work Nora Roberts.
Thanks to netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the arc.
July 20, 2023
“Inheritance”
The Lost Bride Trilogy #1
by Nora Roberts
Pub Date 21 Nov 2023
St. Martin's Press
ARC kindly provided by the publisher and Netgalley. All opinions are my own. Thanks so much!
The cover is absolutely stunning. I really enjoyed this.
A haunted mansion. A woman taking charge of her life again. Sonya recently breaks up with her cheating fiancé. Shortly after, she inherited a mansion from an uncle, she never knew that existed, her fathers twin.
After moving to Lost Bride Mansion, strange things happen. Sonya is set to discover the mansions and her family’s past.
My opinion:
Outlier opinion coming in.
Slow. Slooow slooow… and slow. I have nothing against setting up a story and getting the vibe across. But this was way too much play by play. She ate this, ate that (in every detail), answered emails (in detail) and took the dog out….
It was way too long and I found myself bored out of my socks. It took me more than three days, because I found myself procrastinating, something I don’t usually do. This is my second Nora Roberts book lately and both had the same effect on me. I don’t doubt that she is a capable and talented author, but the writing style is not for me.
The story was ok, not great, not horrible, somewhere in the nowhere-land of in between. This could have been half as long, too many fillers for me. But I am happy that people are enjoying it more than I did.
The Lost Bride Trilogy #1
by Nora Roberts
Pub Date 21 Nov 2023
St. Martin's Press
ARC kindly provided by the publisher and Netgalley. All opinions are my own. Thanks so much!
The cover is absolutely stunning. I really enjoyed this.
A haunted mansion. A woman taking charge of her life again. Sonya recently breaks up with her cheating fiancé. Shortly after, she inherited a mansion from an uncle, she never knew that existed, her fathers twin.
After moving to Lost Bride Mansion, strange things happen. Sonya is set to discover the mansions and her family’s past.
My opinion:
Outlier opinion coming in.
Slow. Slooow slooow… and slow. I have nothing against setting up a story and getting the vibe across. But this was way too much play by play. She ate this, ate that (in every detail), answered emails (in detail) and took the dog out….
It was way too long and I found myself bored out of my socks. It took me more than three days, because I found myself procrastinating, something I don’t usually do. This is my second Nora Roberts book lately and both had the same effect on me. I don’t doubt that she is a capable and talented author, but the writing style is not for me.
The story was ok, not great, not horrible, somewhere in the nowhere-land of in between. This could have been half as long, too many fillers for me. But I am happy that people are enjoying it more than I did.
December 17, 2023
4.5 Stars ⭐️
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