With its period-style prose, witty heroine, clever world-building and wonderful writing Ghost Talker is a captivating opener to this mystery series. Whilst the book has a late Victorian feel it is set in a fictional land, blending historical fiction, cosy mystery and fantasy both cleverly and successfully. The story moves along at a steady pace and I quickly found myself enamoured by the whirlwind that is Elinor Chalamet.


For a novella, the book really managed to pack a lot in, including a wide cast of characters and some excellent world-building. The author cleverly wove in elements that I'm sure will come into play in subsequent books and left us with several unanswered questions to hold our interest. For me the mystery part could have taken a back seat - that's how much I enjoyed spending time with Elinor, the Duke and their associates.


I liked how the main plot of this story was tied up, it both made sense and felt plausible. I'm already invested in this intrepid pair and can't wait to read about their next adventure.

Thanks #NetGalley and Rook and Castle Press for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Madame Chalamet is a highly trained Ghost Talker who assists law enforcement and counsels the bereaved. After being called to help identify a body she finds herself caught up in government intrigue that goes all the way to the King.

This is not my typical genre, but I love a good mystery and good atmosphere in a story. “Ghost Talker: Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries, Volume 1” delivers. Another reviewer mentioned good world-building and I would agree. The world Elinor Chalamet inhabits is familiar, yet not. As someone who doesn’t spend a lot of time reading fantasy, this was an excellent mix for me. As a Ghost Talker, Chalamet certainly has critics, but her strength, humor, and understanding of human (and other beings) behavior see her through every challenge. She knows her own mind, but is humble enough to work with others, including an intriguing and powerful duke. This episode reveals a number of mysteries within the storyline, including some in Elinor’s own life.

#GhostTalker is fun for historical mystery fans, mystery series fans, those who like novels on the short side, well-paced action, and a little bit of fantasy.

This is the first in a series of six novellas. I can hardly wait for the next one!

A quick, easy and atmospheric read that I loved. The story was darkly compelling with well devloped characters and a good amount of world building, I loved it,

Madame Elinor Chalamet, a medium, is called to the morgue by Inspector Barbier, to find the identity of the drowned man. Not only was the coroner there but also the King's man, Tristan Fontaine, Duke of Archambeau. She finds out the dead man's name and the last few minutes of his life. It seems that he was related to the King and because of this and the duke's involvement in secret government talks, Elinor is put under house arrest.
A quick and enjoyable fantasy 1900's era novella with ghosts, mediums, murder and espionage. An independent woman and a cynical duke and how they need to work together to solve crimes.
Thank you NetGalley and Rook & Castle Press for this e-galley of "Ghost Talker".

Set in a fictional country and an era reminiscent of nineteenth century France, this is the first of six novellas featuring Elinor Chalet, a Ghost Talker.

Trained by the Morpheus Society, Elinor can talk to to newly deceased people in the short period before their spirits completely leave for the beyond and the afterlife as well as to ghosts who refuse to leave and haunt places significant to them. When she is summoned to the morgue by Tristan Fontaine, Duke du Archambeau to question a newly killed man, she is surprised to know that he is a relative of the King and she will then need to be kept secluded to protect any secrets she hears.

This was a lot of fun. The plot moves along at a fast pace with great characters and world building. The ghost talking was well done as well as the other ghosts (especially one very unusual one) encountered by Elinor and the Duke. I enjoyed the dynamics and sparring between the Duke and Elinor, a strong minded woman not about to be dictated to by him (or his noxious sister and mother). The Duke is young, handsome and widowed so I'm looking forward to seeing more fireworks in their future!

Ghost Talker by Nash Byrd
Madame Chalomet Ghost Stories #1

Intriguing introduction to new paranormal Gaslamp fantasy series that introduced me to characters I want to know better and a new author I would like to read more books by.

What I liked:
* Elinor: ghost talker, businesswoman, trained by Morpheus Society, assists police in murder cases, daughter of a murdered jeweler, intelligent, seeks to find her father’s killer
* Mysir de Archambeau: duke, widow, employed by the king, works with the police, autocratic, intriguing, intelligent, would like to see more of him
* The setting, plot, pacing, and writing
* The supporting characters and wondering what parts they will play in future books
* That the mystery of the first body and its importance is determined by the end of the story
* Wondering about the duke’s wife and what really happened to her and how his sister, mother, and childhood friend might play into this subject
* Knowing that there is another book to look forward to

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley, Rock and Castle Press and BookSirens for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

Ghost Talker is the first novella in the 6-part Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries series.

A woman of means, spiritualist Elinore Chalamet lives in the Crown hotel with her maid Anne-Marie. A medium by training, she connects grieving family and friends with their loved ones in the Beyond. In her spare time, she helps the police identify the recently deceased. Only on this case, the man found in the canal has ties to the monarchy, and the Duke de Archambeau has no interest in Elinore's help.

I loved this book! It's a lot of fun, with engaging characters, an exciting story, and an interesting world that's similar to ours, but with enough differences to be intriguing. Elinore is 29 based on story math, but she acts much older since she is very confident and direct. She is also very good at her job. Dr. Charlotte LaRue, the medical examiner, is also an excellent character. I love professional women in historical settings.

Only 163 pages, this book is a quick and fun read. Recommended to lovers of historical cozy mysteries who don't mind a hint of fantasy thrown in.

Thanks to NetGalley and Rook and Castle Press for access to a copy of this ebook for review.

A great gothic ghost story. A perfect read for spooky season. I could imagen this as a TV show. A throughly great read. Thank you to the publishers and #netgalley for the advanced arch. #ghosttalker

I really enjoyed this wonderfully atmospheric novella about a medium in Victorian times. Can't wait to see what adventures are to come for Madame Elinor Chalamet.

Reviewed in exchange for an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and
Rook and Castle Press, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles

Death does not mean the end.....
Set in a fantasy world similar to England 1900s where ghosts are present but not all believe. While helping to solve a murder Elinor finds herself under the watchful eye of Mysir De Archambeau.

Initially, I found Ghost Talker to be rather slow-moving due to the detailed scene description and unnecessary information however, once you move farther into the book things progress at a very delicious pace. Ghost talker is set as a 6part novella where each book has its own mystery to solve as well as several backstories that develop throughout the books.

I fully enjoyed the interactions of the self-reliant MFC Elinor and MMC Tristan and can not wait to see how their "acquaintance-ship" unfolds.

Other than the slow start my only complaint was I felt as if the supporting characters lacked proper background build-up to help the reader connect with said characters. However in the back, of the book, you are provided with a "cast of characters and helpful information" section that helps explain some background information.

Overall this was an enjoyable quick read. Fans of Victorian mysteries and paranormal books this is right up your alley.

Over all rating:3.8
Character development:3
Spicy:0/5
Trigger warnings.... Drug use and inference to prostitution. A very light mention of both.

I read “Ghost Walker,” by Byrn Nash. I love the first line, “Dead bodies interrupted my dessert course.” I thought that it was a really good introduction for the character Elinor and her many different interests. Ghost Talking was a really interesting premise and Elinor was perfect for the job. I loved that she took her job very seriously and was willing to help those in need at no cost. I enjoyed that Elinor was slightly older than our normal historical romance heroines, I liked how independent she was and how dedicated she was to interests. I am interested to see where the relationship with her and Tristian go. I can’t wait to see how their relationship turns out in the next few books. I would have liked to learn more about Elinor’s dad. I thought that was were the book was headed for the first half, but then the murder plot became the focus again. The book was good, but at some moments tedious. “Ghost Walker,” by Byrn Nash is an easy to consume, quick, and interesting read.

Full teaser review to be published 21 October 2022 at https://wellreadpiratequeen.blogspot.com/2022/10/ghost-talker-byrd-nash.html
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This is my first Byrd Nash read but it certainly will not be my last. If nothing else, I will have to continue this particular series because I have absolutely fallen in love with Elinor and Tristan ... and Anne-Marie ... and Jacques ... and Marcus ... and Dr. LaRue ... and I could probably (easily) name even more because the characters are just that compelling and delightful. Well, except for the ones that aren't meant to be, of course.

While technically a "novella," this wasn't one that I flew through. Partially because I was sick for much of the time and even reading took more energy than I had to give at times, but even so it's one to savor -- like one of the divine desserts Elinor is so dearly fond of. There's humor and mystery and a hint of romance and, of course, the ever-important presence of ghosts.

According to Amazon the next two installments will be released in December and February. I suppose I can wait that long ... or, at least, as long as it takes for them to hit NetGalley.

Ghost Talker is the perfect mix of Sci-Fi/Fantasy and Mystery-Thriller in a fictitious historical setting. The writing style flowed nicely and felt unique to the story, making this an entertaining read.

Elinor Chalamet, Ghost Talker, and Tristan Fontain, Duke of Archambeau, were a feisty pair. And while unromantic (for now?), I can't wait to read more of them and see how their relationship progresses. Anne-Marie, Elinor's assistant, Lady Valentina, the duke's sister, and the rest of the cast were welcome additions to the storylline.

This was a fun read and I recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, cozy, weekend read during this spooky season.
I cannot wait to continue the series!

4.5/5 stars

I'm so glad I happened to see this book. I've been in the mood for something a little bit different and this seems like it might fill that need. This is the first book in what is said to be planned as a six-part novella series. Combining historical atmosphere, fantasy and paranormal genres turned out to be a winner for me. The feeling of being in a country somewhere in Europe, especially as it strongly resembles France, placed in the early 1900's, gives the story a familiarity for those of us who enjoy mystery and/or romantic historical novels. The fantasy aspect comes about through the ghost talking that Madame Elinor Chalamet does in her work with the police. (I must say that addressing Elinor as Madame made me think that she was an older woman before the story revealed her to be less than thirty years old. It was a little bump in my otherwise smooth ride.)

The ghost talking is done in a very reasonable manner which I was very glad to see because I can be a very critical reader. I liked Tristan Fontaine, duke of Archambeau, who is the noble opposite to Elinor, the commoner. The handwriting is fully legible on the wall - Elinor and Tristan are going to have to find a way to work together. Bet they work it out, too.

I appreciate that things like a cast of characters is included along with the correct pronunciations for names, things and places. If I'm going to be following these characters around for any length of time, I like to think I am at least calling them by their correct names. There is also a sneak peek at the second novella in the series to whet the appetite. I will certainly be ready when the next book in the series drops.

Thank you to NetGalley and Rook and Castle Press for an e-galley of this novella.

The idea of a mystery story featuring a protagonist who could talk to ghosts was something that appealed to me.

It was a very interesting story, light enough to read in one sitting, and not too long or drawn out. The characters interested me, and the storyline in general was interesting. The story had an eerie feel, which is what I was hoping for.

This is probably the kind of story that I would enjoy reading around Halloween. I think I would be interested in reading some more of the books in the series, and I would recommend this to my friends who enjoy books in the paranormal/horror genres.

I really enjoyed this fast paced paranormal mystery. The author does a great job of creating a highly believable alternate world

Elinor is a fabulous character - intelligent, quick and witty. She isn't snarky,, she is self assured.

I eagerly await the next book.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me this ARC. This is my honest review.

When a body leads to a crown affair …

I do not usually read stories set on the course of many books except for mysteries, I also do not read fantasy but I had the feeling this book was as much a paranormal tale than a fantasy, the fantasy being more the background setting than faeries or witches. Thus this book is a sort of mix of everything, all the more for the entertainment of the readers, a cross between mystery, paranormal, verging on the steampunk world with a dash of romance and humor.

The story is narrated in the first person from Elinor’s point of view.
She is sassy, mouthy, feisty and witty (thus the first sentence of the book : “ Dead bodies interrupted my dessert course. “), to summarize she made herself the woman she is now.
Her past is briefly explored, as I suppose she will get new clues along her future investigations.
She is a fun character to follow, letting no one demean her, with quips and a quick mind she disarms her adversaries, yet her heart is sweet to those in need, why she is fair and nice, befriending people from different upbringing or status. Her curious and good nature leads her to help anyone in need of a little push from her side.

I can not wait to read more of her adventures and how crossing path again with the duke will turn into a romance.

Archambeau is also a mystery to explore, did he truly kill his wife, what of all these secrets around her passing. Yet it looks like to be an investigation left for later.

So even if it is not a classical historical mystery, this spunky heroine will make you want to read more about her.
After all, only two months until her next affair.
5 stars

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 none

I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

4.2 Stars
One Liner: Entertaining

Madame Elinor Chalamet is a trained Ghost Talker, a medium belonging to the Morpheus Society. She helps the police using her skills and also takes up private clients. Elinor is also searching for her father’s killer and the missing details of his death.
A dead body puts her in the path of Tristan Fontaine, Duke de Archambeau, who needs to solve the case and keep things in wraps. However, issues get complicated (in the case and in their personal lives). Can Elinor and Tristan find the killer on time?
The story comes from Elinor’s first-person POV.

My Thoughts:
The blurb gave me Amanda Quick vibes, and I grabbed the book right away when I saw the author’s name. I read A Spell of Rowans by the author and enjoyed it.
The novella starts with a bang and progresses at a steady pace. The writing is easy and entertaining. I like the bits of humor sprinkled throughout.
Elinor is smart, intelligent, capable, and determined. She deals with people in her style and knows how to get information.
The ‘ghost’ scenes blend with the main narrative, which is an advantage and a disadvantage. The shift is seamless, but if readers want something heavily atmospheric, it can be a wee bit disappointing.
The hints about her father are just enough to keep the readers interested for the next installment. Of course, the interactions between Elinor and Tristan are just as promising.
Ann-Marie is an excellent side character. I hope she has a meatier role in the coming books. The series has loads of potential, and I hope to read them all.
The climax is good and rightly sized, but it wasn’t mind-blowing or wow. The follow-through is smooth and ends well, but I wanted a little more from the climax.
To summarize, Ghost Talker is an evenly-paced paranormal novella with a feisty heroine and a grumbling hero. It’s an entertaining read for those who enjoy the genre.
Thank you, Net Galley, Rook and Castle Press, and IBPA Members’ Titles, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#GhostTalker #NetGalley
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P.S: I wish the cover was better. It caught my attention only because of the title and the author’s name. I can see it fits the story, but it doesn’t have the magic factor.

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this intriguing book

ohhh madame chalament is a gifted ghost talker or medium and is in high demand for her services so when she is called upon by the duke to she has no option but to get involved with his case

this is the beginning of a 6 part story and i for one cant wait after reading this one

DISLAIMER: some spoilers and quotes! Tropes: Gothic Historical fiction thriller, gaslamp fantasy (potions/magic), hate to love, slow burn romance
Ft. Feminist from the old times, who knows how to put people in their place and dishes back exactly what’s she’s been served with her sharp mouth (ie my favorite), Almost all the characters were sarcastic crusty Bishes and I am here for it! I was hooked from the first sentence “Dead bodies interrupted my dessert course.”
Beautiful writing style and great world-building, I am HOOKED and would love to get more books from this series on NetGalley and I have subscribed to the newsletter!!
Moving on to the romance 😏😏Sarcastic 👏🏽witty 🤌🏾banter👏🏽 , she met her match in Tristan and I loveee. <spoiler> I Love the scene when the ghost first possessed him😏And I believe Tristan when he said he was in control with the ghost , especially after the kiss, when his remark was “why did you slap me” and when he complimented her after her friend did “as the ghost”
Some favorite quotes:
“Do you wish to look down my throat, your Grace, and make sure I haven’t stuffed it full of cotton?”

“He gave me a long puzzled look, asking abruptly, “why do you wear black? It doesn’t suit your pale coloring. When I first saw you, I took you for much older.”
“Too kind, sir! And what color do you recommend for a trip to the morgue?” I asked sarcastically.
“A dark satin blue, with perhaps a black velvet jacket. That would go well with your sandy blond hair and pale complexion.”
Man’s knows fashion

“…be sure to look pleasurably shocked, yet thrilled, when we get inside."
"I shall try my best."
The carriage slowed to a stop. I looked out the window and cried out so loudly that heads turned our way, "Oh, look at the funny people!
Why is that man sleeping in the gutter? He'd better get up before he catches cold."
When mysir de duke handed me down, I stumbled against him, giggling. Pressed against him, he whispered in my ear, “is that a weapon I feel in your pocket Madame?” </spoiler>