Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC!

DNF @ 45%

I really, really, wanted to like this book, but unfortunately, this is just not for me.

My biggest gripes are 1) the writing style, 2) the character writing, 3) the romance and 4) the lack of cozy vibes.

1) The sentences are all very short. The length of each sentence is roughly like this. There are many sentences that could be joined together with commas, but they are not. This makes the writing feel disjointed. The flow of the narrative is also disrupted. Maybe this is not an issue for other readers, but this is a big issue for me. There are also way too many dialogue tags, enough that I kept noticing them. This book just feels very unedited overall.

2) Some of the MC's dialogue and decisions make no sense, like one moment she's all earnest and determined to do her part to help Frank! And the next moment she's avoiding her assigned work and questioning Frank's decisions. Not to mention the side characters, who range from "just there" to annoying. They also don't get any amount of depth. Maybe this changes later on in the book, but as it is, there is not enough to make me care about any of them. These characters don't seem to be particularly fond of each other either. More like roommates forced to put up with each other than any sort of found family.

3) The romance grated on my nerves. The MC's love interest picks on her constantly, even after the MC makes it clear that she does not like it (sorry I didn't realise this was a bully romance!) and it's brushed off as "oh I'm just like this to everyone". If it was not mentioned that the MC finds her attractive, I would have thought she was some sort of antagonist the MC had to overcome.

4) This book is pitched as cozy fantasy. While it is definitely fantasy, this book is NOT cozy. The house is falling into disrepair because it's constantly raining and storming and the characters are worrying about money and how to fix things. Their asses are NOT feeling cozy! The MC drinks hot tea though, so I guess that hits all the requirements to be cozy fantasy /s

Overall, a promising concept lacking in execution.

Saika finally has to fulfill the promise she made to her dying sister: to bury her in Ash Gardens, a place where the ashes of the dead aren't just layed in the ground, but bound to a tree that will grow and thrive forever. It's a beautiful resting place, and Saika has taken her sweet time with gathering up the courage to even travel to Ash Gardens. But when Frank, the magical creature who founded the place with his deceased wife, opens the door for her, she can't let go of her sister just yet, so she takes on a role at the house; as a music witch, she will play for the guests burying their loved ones. The other people living and working there are great; Frank, two more witches, a fairy, a ghosts an elf and two cherubs. But no one knows her secret and the source of her magic, and Saika desperately wants to keep these things hidden.
This was such a lovely read. The gentle way this book deals with grief and even it's ugly sides was very comforting, the characters all three-dimensional and Saikas growth through and with grief and her mistakes was lovely to witness. It reminded me a lot of Howl's Moving Castle, the whimsy and magic and love for details were absolutely heartwarming. The reveals and twists were well placed and surprising (enough) so that it felt like a suspenseful story without uprooting all the worldbuilding. I would even call this a cozy book, even with the heavy themes and character flaws. Will definitely pick up another book by Kay Synclaire.

This is what my heart was hoping for from House in the Cerulean Sea but TJ Klune is instead an anti-Indgenous weirdo.... cozy witchy whimsy found family and wholesome vibes I could just cry.

4.5
House of Frank is a cozy fantasy about grief and loss, with a cast of unique characters, all endearing in their own ways. All of that delivered with a somewhat strange type of prose that combines 1st person and 2nd person. The plot of the book is nothing special, as is the case with many cozy fantasy books out there, but it works, and the ending is a very satisfying (and emotional) one, if there's one complaint about this book it's the fact that some plot developments can feel a bit contrived and too convenient, but it's not that big of a deal for a book so focused on the characters (instead of the plot).
Not all of the characters in the ensemble are equally compelling, some of them are just comic relief, but most of them are three dimensional characters that feel like real people, with their own unique quirks and traits. the characters are definitely the main stars of the show here, which is why, the relationships in the book are also excellently done. There are a couple of different relationships here, and they're very different from each other, but all of them are so good. This book is perfect for anyone looking for a compelling character-centric fantasy that tackles themes like founs family and grief.

I was surprised that this was not the slam dunk I expected it to be. The premise is lovely, the cover is gorgeous...throw in some magically creatures and add some family drama and I'm usually good to go.

However, in this book things didn't quite add up. It started out well with a motley crew of witches, elves, ghosts, and other creatures basically running a funeral parlor. And I loved the idea of a magical arboretum where trees that mirror the departed's spirit grow together.

I think I had some issues with Saika and with the believability of some of her actions. I didn't love the constant conversations with her dead sister that (for me) took away from the relationships with the people in the house. And I found an action she takes about midway through the story to be totally baffling (making a huge change with one resident with no one's input while she's still ostensibly a guest.) I didn't love that she was a witch with no power and that so much of the story was swallowed up by this quest to catch a falling star to save them all.

This ultimately may be a matter of taste and this book not matching up with my expectations. Others may likely find it quite magical, and it does have some interesting things to say about grief.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.

Looking for a heartfelt story with queer representation and a sprinkle of magic? Then I definitely recommend reading House of Frank!

This story is a cozy and heartwarming exploration of grief wrapped in a beautifully crafted fantasy setting. The story follows Saika, a witch without magic, as she navigates her profound loss and the emotional journey of fulfilling her sister's final wish. The diverse cast of characters, especially the cherub brothers and the endearing Frank, create a wonderful sense of found family. Each character feels richly developed and relatable, showcasing various ways to cope with grief.

What struck me most was the gentle yet powerful way the book handles themes of remembrance and letting go. The writing is immersive, making the emotional weight of the story feel palpable without being overwhelming. I also loved the chemistry between Oli and Saika; their relationship adds a beautiful layer to the narrative.

Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book! It was a touching story perfect for cozy days, offering a comforting reminder of love, loss, and the enduring connections we share with those we've lost.

Thank you to Bindery Books and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Another cover that I love SO MUCH and is the reason why I picked this up. It’s a cozy whimsical mystery fantasy in fact it’s kind of reminding me of The House in the Cerulean Sea. Our protagonist saika, lost her sister unfortunately and needs her ashes to be buried at a place called ash garden, she travels there and is greeted with a fun cast of characters including Frank a big furry beast who runs ash garden. There are witches, elves, cherubs, ghosts, all kinds of creatures living here and it was so heartwarming.

This was such a moving story, I felt so many emotions while reading. There were funny, happy, and sad parts. It was done so well and I loved the characters as well.

Will update with Instagram review link soon

House of Frank by Kay Synclaire was exactly what I wanted from a cosy fantasy. It’s a beautiful, tender read that somehow feels like gently poking a bruise—there’s a bit of emotional sting, but it’s heartwarming and hopeful all the same. The story has just enough mystery to keep you hooked, and I found myself completely immersed, devouring the book in one sitting.

There’s something truly special about the way it balances its warmth with a touch of melancholy. It’s a comforting, yet thought-provoking read that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

House of Frank is a cozy fantasy, yes, but no one is opening up a cafe here. The characters are working through grief, both their own and that of the people that come to Ash Gardens to have burial ceremonies for their loved ones.

I loved the writing style of this book, and will absolutely read Kay Synclaire’s books in the future. I liked most of the relationships in the book- if I had a complaint, it was that with the number of characters in the house, it was tough to feel like we really got to know each of them fully.

I struggled with the second person interjections at the beginning, but eventually got used to them. I had some nitpicky issues with the book - can someone please get Phil a piece of paper and a pen, or something? - but overall, it was very sweet and made me cry just the right amount.

House of Frank is a cosy fantasy about love, grief, losing yourself, then picking yourself back up. It has a lovely cast of characters and a evenly paced plot.
My only problem was it was very hard for me to get into it with the POV.

House of Frank is a semi-cozy fantasy with a whimsical cast of characters all learning to heal together. It covers the very heavy subjects of grief, mourning, and loss. *Please be kind to yourself and always check TW.

While not quite for me, I have seen many rave reviews for the story. I personally did not feel the emotional attachment I would have liked, but I do think this story will find many fans.

Thank you Bindery Books and NetGalley for an advanced electronic copy in exchange for an honest review. House of Frank comes out October 15th.

“Sing for me,” you whisper. “Please. ”
Here are reasons to read the Cozy Fantasy book:

Dead Sister’s Burial - Saika has made her sister a promise in regards to her burial
Magical Arboretum - to be buried at the Magical Ash Gardens
House of loss - but Saika is not prepared for what she finds, as the whole house is filled with staff who has lost something
Save them - and with an impending storm threatening to destroy the house, Saika tries to work through her grief in order to save them

I had first heard about this book from Ezeekat as it was the first he published under his imprint on Bindery Press. And I think he picked a good first choice. Not only is it cozy and accessible fantasy, but it’s deep. The discussions of grief and loss were beautiful and I found myself choked up at the portrayal of it. It’s giving House on the Cerulean Sea vibes. Take some time this fall, and fall in love with these characters.

I loved this book! It has everything I am looking for in a story, strong characters, a great story, and fantastic writing. I really loved all the residents at Ash Gardens, especially Hilde, Frank, and Oli. I liked how Saika is kind of telling her sister what is happening or why she is doing certain things and why she reacts the way she does to things. The setting is awesome. I loved the house and the magic. The ending was tough because I did not want to leave this universe yet. I can't wait to read more by this author.

House of Frank follows Saika, a powerless witch who ends up at House of Frank to find closure after losing her beloved sister Fiona. She thought of only planting her ashes at Ash gardens however she finds herself unable to do so right away, so she accepts to stay. Here live a few random people including a ghost, a half witch, two cherubs and many more. Spending the days together gives Saika the means to grow and finally accept her sister’s absence.

I really loved this story, the writing style was super easy to read, the themes not so much at times. It talks about grief and how it can impact different people. I loved Saika’s story and also all the rest of the characters’ backstories as well. It was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time.

I highly recommend this story if you’re looking for a bittersweet cozy fantasy about overcoming loss. Thank you NetGalley and Bindery Books for an e-copy in exchange for a honest review.

I enjoyed the writing and the development of the characters. The setting felt real and well thought out.

House of Frank is a charming cozy fantasy story exploring grief and how hard it can be to let go. It follows Saika, a young witch showing up at Ash Gardens' Arboretum to finally lay her sister to rest. But she is not quite ready to bury her yet, and so she busies herself with being useful to the eclectic household she's been welcomed in. As time goes by Frank, the head of the house, comes to trust her with his secrets, and the house's impending doom. Saika will do anything to save the place and—especially—its inhabitants, even without power and a body that's failing her more each day.

With its cozy, autumnal vibes, a found family of various fantasy species we don't often see paired together, queer characters and a narrative centered on grief, House of Frank had everything to be right up my alley. And it was—only partly.

My first gripe with the book is the narration, though that is a very personal preference. First person P.O.V is not my thing, but it could have worked fine here... if it wasn't constantly interrupted by second person P.O.V as Saika addresses her deceased sister. I suppose this was a way of showing how paralysed by her grief Saika is, unable to let go of Fiona and still talking to her as if she was alive; the result is a stilted, repetitive narration which tells more than it shows, as Saika explains events to her sister. Despite her constant internal dialogue, we're not shown enough of their relationship to truly empathise with her grief.

There is an overall lack of development, both of the characters and in terms of world building. The magic system seemed interesting enough, but I would have liked to learn a little more about it. I could only summon up very surface level care for the characters in this book, including the main one—who was actually quite annoying at some times.
The queer representation was nice, though the outing of a trans character, whose trans identity has no impact and is never mentionned again, felt performative.

Overall, I still thought this was a lovely book, with fun characters and sweet moments. If you want cozy magical vibes with a heavy topic, this is the book for you, but I think it would have benefited from being longer, and having some more in depth editing.

Bonus points for the gorgeous, gorgeous cover.

Thank you to Bindery and NetGalley for the e-arc of this book!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this arc. It was a powerful story about grief, love, and loss. The characters were interesting and the array of representation was beautiful to read.
If you have experienced loss, grab a box of tissues, and enjoy.

4.5 stars

“House of Frank” is the delightful tale of grieving witch Saika, who is unable to move on from the loss of her sister Fiona. She has brought Fiona’s ashes to Ash Gardens, where the remains can be planted in a magical arboretum to become a beautiful tree that will serve as the resting place for her soul. When Saika arrives, she encounters a group of entirely disparate magical beings who are united by the fact that they’ve all lost people, and chosen to stay and work at Ash Gardens together; Saika opts to join them until she feels ready to let go. Their host Frank is a Minotaur grieving the loss of his wife, talented witch Kye. But Saika is not being forthright about the circumstances of her sister’s death, or the gradual decay of her body and her power; similarly, Frank is hiding secrets as the house begins to fall down around them, and Frank’s mind seems to be going with it.
This story is utterly charming and hauntingly beautiful. The cozy atmosphere, the lovely friendships, all is lovingly described and heartfelt. Saika’s journey, along with all the other denizens of Ash Gardens, is deeply relatable to anyone grieving the loss of a loved one or in search of family and community.

If someone were to ask me for a book recommendation, House of Frank would definitely be on the top of my list. When a book is described as a cozy read, I often find it hard to truly feel that cozy vibe. But with this one, I felt like I was wrapped in the biggest, warmest hug. I savored every moment of it, taking my time because I didn’t want it to end. House of Frank beautifully explores the theme of grief. Our main character, Saika, travels to Ash Gardens at the request of her late sister, who asked her to plant her remains there. Once she arrives,Saika meets other creatures who have experienced their own grief, creating a poignant journey of healing and connection.

Grief profoundly transforms individuals, and we witness its impact on the characters throughout the story. Some have lost their smiles and struggle to move forward, while others need time to process their emotions. Our main character, Saika, embodies this struggle; her moments of frustration and occasional unfairness toward those around her highlight her difficulty in navigating her grief. Although some readers may find her behavior frustrating—especially her frequent mental conversations with her sister—I believe she authentically represents the complexities of the grieving process. In addition to coping with her sister's loss, she grapples with feelings of blame and guilt. Despite the book’s fast pace, I appreciated seeing how Saika evolves from the beginning to the end.

I absolutely adored the protagonist and the wonderfully diverse cast of side characters. I found myself wanting to learn even more about their backstories because I grew so attached to each of them. The setting, with its enchanting house and serene arboretum, struck the perfect balance between melancholy and whimsy—an ideal sanctuary to say goodbye to a loved one after enduring such a profound loss.

A heads-up for anyone picking up House of Frank—while the cozy vibes are certainly there, be prepared for an emotionally heavy read. Grief is at the heart of this story, and it delves deep into the pain of loss. That said, if you're looking for a book that explores the complexities of losing loved ones while offering comfort and hope, House of Frank is a beautiful, heartfelt journey that reminds you that healing is possible even in the darkest times.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Bindery Books for the ARC!