The Orchids of Ashthorne Hall - (Proper Romance Victorian) by Rebecca Anderson (Paperback)

About the Book

"A ghostly estate. A handsome caretaker hiding a secret. And the intrepid Hyacinth Bell who is set on solving the mystery of both. 1887, the Cornwall coast. For years, rumors have flown through the village of Suttonsbury about Ashthorne Hall-that its occupants hoard pirate treasure, that a ghost walks its halls-but botanist Hyacinth Bell only cares about the estate's extensive, one-of-a-kind orchid collection. As an independent woman, she is eager to focus on her career, even if it means waiting to pursue a romantic relationship. After all, love-like an orchid-must be nurtured and tended before it can bloom. What she doesn't expect is to be swept away by Lucas Harding, the manor's caretaker, upon their first meeting. He is handsome and charming, and the connection between the two is nearly instantaneous. Hyacinth is certain this autumn will be the season that everything good in her life takes root. But then strange things start happening in the seemingly empty halls of the estate: unexplainable noises, items appearing then disappearing from her room, threatening messages, and glimpses of a woman in white who vanishes into the dark. Lucas dismisses Hyacinth's worries, insisting that there is no ghost at Ashthorne Hall, but she suspects he is withholding information and decides to investigate the mystery herself. Armed with little more than her instincts and her courage, Hyacinth must venture deep into the shadows of Ashthorne Hall to uncover the truth Lucas is keeping secret before she herself falls victim to the dangers hidden in the estate. "--

Book Synopsis

A ghostly estate. A handsome caretaker hiding a secret. And the intrepid Hyacinth Bell, who is set on solving the mystery of both.

1887, the Cornwall coast

For years, rumors have flown that a ghost haunts Ashthorne Hall, but botanist Hyacinth Bell cares only about the estate's one-of-a-kind orchid collection. As an independent woman, she is focused on her career, even if it means waiting to pursue a romantic relationship. After all, love--like an orchid--must be nurtured and tended before it can bloom.

What she doesn't expect is to be swept away by Lucas Harding, the manor's handsome and charming caretaker, upon their first meeting, Hyacinth is certain this autumn will be the season that everything good in her life takes root.

But then strange things start happening in the seemingly empty halls of the estate: unexplainable noises, items appearing, then disappearing from her room, threatening messages, and glimpses of a woman in white who vanishes into the dark. Lucas dismisses Hyacinth's worries, insisting that there is no ghost at Ashthorne Hall, but Hyacinth suspects he is withholding information.

Armed with little more than her instincts and her courage, Hyacinth must venture deep into the shadows of Ashthorne Hall to uncover the truth Lucas is keeping secret before she herself falls victim to the dangers hidden in the estate.

Review Quotes

"Anderson's romantic mystery is an entertaining, well-paced story. Hyacinth Bell, an engaging, heart-warming heroine, is skillfully portrayed through tender, humorous exchanges with Lucas and her interactions with a cast of enigmatic and eccentric characters. Anderson's vivid descriptions of the Cornwall coast, depicting the isolated terrain, dismal weather, and ghostly historical events, provide the perfect setting for this suspenseful tale. The poetic laments at the beginning of each chapter add an extra element of poignancy and surprise."-- "Historical Novel Society" (5/3/2024 12:00:00 AM)

"Anderson's latest, following The Art of Love and Lies (2023), is a gothic Proper Romance about remembrance, inner strength, and speaking one's truth boldly in the face of injustice. Anderson's haunting characterization brings Ashthorne Hall to life, and poetic laments between chapters enhance the eerie tone and persistent intrigue. A cozy read celebrating the unexpected strength of a delicate heart when given the right circumstances to thrive."-- "Booklist"

"Hyacinth's quest to discover more about the ghost will take readers through a whirlwind of emotions."-- "Library Journal"

About the Author

By night, Rebecca Anderson writes historical romances. By day, she sets aside her pseudonym and resumes her life as Becca Wilhite, who loves hiking, Broadway shows, rainstorms, food, books, and movies. She lives in the mountains and adores the ocean. She dreams of travel but loves staying home. Happiness is dabbling in lots of creative activities, afternoon naps, and cheese. All the cheese. You can find her online at beccawilhite.com.