reviewsbyerin

Rumors swirl about Sir James Morgan. Is he a man or a beast? Villagers are convinced he might be one of those famous vampires who hail from Transylvania—the home of Sir James's ancestors.

Rosa Edwards doesn't believe anything of the sort. As a librarian and a champion for education, she wants everyone to understand that vampires are fictional and there is nothing to fear from Sir James. However, as she gets to know the man herself, she must admit there are more than a few strange things about him and his home that might leave people wondering.

James searches for a cure for his mother's illness while Rosa tries to fend off a determined suitor who won't take no for an answer. Can it be that the two of them can help each other through their predicaments?

I loved how Michelle Griep weaves a tale of mystery with deep layers of faith and hope. With a story that could contain such darkness, she shines a ray of light. There's still plenty of Gothic overtones, but they do not overtake the main themes. Rosa is a very determined heroine and there's a vulnerability to James despite the protective barriers he carries around his heart. You can't help but hope for the best for them all the way through to the surprising conclusion to the story.

I received my copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.