A Dreadful Splendor: A Novel

In A Dreadful Splendor, Genevieve Timmons poses as a spiritualist to swindle wealthy mourners, but when she is summoned to perform a séance for a bride who died on the eve of her wedding, she discovers that the line between hoax and haunting is blurred. With the help of a handsome nobleman, she must stage a haunting so convincing it will coax the killer into the light, but when frightful incidents befall the manor, Genevieve realizes that her tricks may not be enough.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2022
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER
WINNER OF THE MARY HIGGINS CLARK AWARD



"This gem of a book sparkles with wit and originality. . . . There is no shortage of tricks and feints in this excellent novel, and Genevieve is a delightful character."

- The Globe and Mail

"A spooky gothic romance with impeccable vibes. I loved this!

- Erin Sterling, New York Times bestselling author of The Ex Hex and The Kiss Curse

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

Be careful what you conjure...

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

Soothing a grieving nobleman should be easy for someone of Genevieve's skill, but when she arrives at the grand Somerset Park estate, Mr. Pemberton is not the heartbroken lover she expected. The surly—yet exceedingly handsome—gentleman is certain that his fiancée was murdered, even though there is no evidence. Only a confession can bring justice now, and Mr. Pemberton decides Genevieve will help him get it. With his knowledge of the household and her talent for illusion, they can stage a haunting so convincing it will coax the killer into the light. However, when frightful incidents befall the manor, Genevieve realizes her trick may have unintended consequences. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers a web of lies and treachery that threatens to destroy not only Mr. Pemberton's reputation but also her own soul. With time running out, Genevieve must confront the darkness within herself and find the courage to expose the truth before it's too late.

In this captivating and atmospheric novel, author Erin Sterling weaves a tale of mystery, romance, and suspense that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. With its vivid descriptions, intricate plot, and memorable characters, The Haunting of Somerset Park is a must-read for fans of gothic fiction and murder mysteries alike."

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 203 x 135 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780063209831